This thread was started in June, 2011
Karl.A
June 2011 edited July 2021 in O Scale Builds
So, whats in the box ???
Opening and unpacking the main box is no small project in itself. The box is jam full of all the exquisite SierraWest goodies that makes Brett the best in the business.
Working down through the layers reveals one great component after another, I thought I was at the end when I reached the manual at the bottom of the box, but no, there was still more to come underneath, roofing paper, view blocks, subroofs…
The main barn and warehouse walls are built over lasercut stud walls, these look awesome and are great to work with.
The cookhouse, WOW!! that is one large chunk of resin…
The cookhouse is just one of over 170 indivdual resin castings in this kit, Brett never was skimpy on his castings before but this takes it to a whole new level…
As well as all the resin there are also of course a few metal castings… Five bags of them!!
There are probably more metal detail parts than resin but I was too tired to count. Brett has separated out some of the metal parts which make up certain items, this not only looks great when you are unpacking but will make things so much easier during assembly of these components. Thanks Brett.
The miscellaneous metal bag.
Components for building the Tractor under repair, this is a mini kit in itself!! Cool!!
Well, that’s some of what’s in the box,
obviously, there is also…plans, manual, templates, a bunch of laser cut jigs, stripwood, subwalls ,signs, chain, brass and styrene, corrugated roofing…it just goes on and on.
Well I’m off for a lay down after all that ‘exercise’ and excitement., maybe more later…
Karl.A
Comments
toddmc09
June 2011
Having the pre-assembled /cut stud walls is a great help, I never mind building the board on board part, but I always got tired of building the framing. This is a great idea and makes the thought of building a larger kit like this more attractive. Looks like a fun build.
I am currently working on an older sawmill kit ( I bought it before the Twin Mills Kit was available and I am building/kitbashing on it to give it more size) from another kit producer, While it’s nice in it’s own way, I have spent a huge amount of time cleaning up flash and mold lines and Brett’s castings are so much cleaner and detailed and their are so many more of them. Having the castings in their own individual bag is nice too. Man if I had a gold mine I would have a special wing on my house just for all these kits.
Todd
Karl.A
June 2011 edited June 2011
Thanks for the post Todd,
the laser cut studs are certainly a time saver and a great innovation.
Spent some time working on the siding for the main barn. Deep graining and tooth pick knots.
I put knots in 1/3 of the boards and I will mix these in with regular weathered boards randomly as they are applied over the framing.
The result will hopefully be knotty, but not over powering.
Karl.A
Wes
June 2011
That siding is just fantastic Karl. Did you do all the graining with a wire brush?
Karl.A
June 2011
Thanks very much Wes,
yes, all the graining was done with a couple of different wire brushes.
Karl.A
Kevin
June 2011
YM, the siding looks great!!! How the h… do you do that again?
KOM
Wes
October 2011 edited October 2011
Hi
Ive been busy with this kit over the last couple of weeks and here are some progress pictures.
I look forward to your comments. As always im always open to suggestions.
Bill
October 2011 edited October 2011
Wow! Your brick work is geat, Wes! “Red” brick isn’t only red…there’s usually many shades of red. (I guess that can be said of all brick colors, for that matter.) I can see you’ve got some bright reds, some on the orange-ish side, and some deep reds that look like thoise bricks that baked too long. It’s such a nice casting and I think you nailed it. Do you have any of the other sides finished?
Your wood has a nice range of colors and I like the way you did the “Shelby’s” lettering.
The only suggestion I would make (and this is pretty minor) is on the wood walls. You may want to darken the bottoms of the walls to suggest some water damage. This picture isn’t the best example since the wood has been painted, but I think it shows how a building is affected by the elements:
At the top, you can see that almost all the white paint is present, but at the bottom there’s none and the wood appears to be damaged. On your model, you can touch the bottom edges with a little A/I and let it wick upward:
Looking forward to more!
Bill
UncleJT
October 2011
Looking real nice Wes, thanks for keeping us updated.
I found a bundle of scrap boards today that I plan to use as practice boards for coloring/weathering before I dive into my first SW kit. Hopefully I can start to experiment some tomorrow.
Karl.A
October 2011
Great looking brickwork Wes, you really captured and showed off the depth and character of the casting nicely.
have fun with the practising JT, you’ll see how easy it is. Post any questions you may have as there are plenty of great modelers here willing to assist.
Karl.A
Wes
October 2011 edited October 2011
Thank you guys. Much appreciated.
Bill I will definately add some AI to the bottom of the walls. Thanks for that ref picture. It sure is helpfull.
Ive completed all 3 sides of the brick structure.
Jt go mad with the practice boards. You will be amazed at how easy you get great results. You cant go wrong with Bretts instructions.
Karl your beautifully carved casting made it a pleasure to work with.
Jim
October 2011
Karl,
You are absolutely right! This kit looks fantastic, and your castings ARE definitely the best.
The brickwork on the Cookhouse is the best brickwork I have seen in any scale model. Beautiful work! Brett, I’m chomping at the bit !
Jim
Karl.A
October 2011 edited October 2011
Thanks Jim, the castings are all Brett’s, and yes, they are unquestionably the best.
I was fortunate enough to be able to help out with the cookhouse, I’m glad that you like it and it makes me proud to have a small contribution in such a great kit.
Karl.A
brownbr
November 2011
Karl,
I love your knothole technique and have been experimenting with it. To vary the sizes of the knots are you poking the toothpicks in from both sides?
admin
November 2011
vary the size of the hole made and how far the tapered toothpick is inserted - no need to go at it from both sides…
Wes
November 2011 edited November 2011
Hi everyone
I continue to work slowly through this build. Dont you just hate it when you dying to build something, but 1:1 things get in the way?
Anyway, i have completed the stair case that is used to gain access to the top floor of the main barn. the one set of pillars on the bottom landing is a bit off, but that will be fixed.
The main loading dock infront of the barn is also complete. Somehow a smudge of green paint ended up on the front of it. Ill try remove that tonight, or otherwise use an old tyre as a bumper to try and hide it.
Some further weathering will be added later on when i start putting the buildings together.
As always, all critique and suggestions are welcome.
admin
November 2011
that stairway looks so cool as a standalone - great job so far!
Wes
November 2011
Thanks Brett. Much appreciated.
Karl.A
November 2011
Looking great so far Wes, the staircase really does look cool, one of my favourite parts of the build.
Looking forward to your next update.
Karl.A
Wes
November 2011
Thanks Karl
Busy with the shed at the moment and hope to post pictures tomorrow.
Dwaine46
November 2011
Finally got going on my BlueSky Warehouse. What did I do, opened the kit and dove into the castings. Man, those things are addictive. I saw Chris had installed a floor in his railroad camp warehouse, and I just had to try it. I will install the main doors later. If I don’t like the interior, I can always close the doors…… Toooo many distractions this time of year. Wife seems to be more concerned with the Christmas lights.
Wes, what you did with the smokehouse is great.
admin
November 2011 edited November 2011
great looking dawine!!! Love the interior shots
looking forwrd to more…
Wes - any progress on the shed?
**
Karl.A**
November 2011
Looks great Dwaine, I also plan on doing the interior of the barn, yours came out really well.
Colour on the siding came out really nicely.
Where’s the updates Wes, you’re getting to be as slow as me!!
Karl.A
Wes
November 2011
Good to see someone else jump in on this one Dwaine. Looking good so far.
Summer has hit us quickly over the last couple of weeks so ive been surfing or mountain biking till late most evenings and therefore the building has taken a back seat. I will get my butt back into gear tonight hopefully and get something done.
admin
November 2011
where do u surf… I used to drink quite a few gallons off the carlsbad coast in socal in the late 80’s… i know so africa has some great spots… been to hawaii too but chicken to try any of the famous spots like waimea bay
Wes
November 2011
Yeah we have some wonderful waves here in South Africa. I surf the spots here in Cape Town the most often. Ive also surfed along the whole coast of our country aswell as Namibia and Mozambique. next year my girlfriend and I are off to Indonesia for a two week surf trip. Hopefully i will get to surf Hawaii soon. The waves look like lots of fun there.
Wes
November 2011
Ok guys. Im back in gear and Built the tractor shed lastnight. This will be a bit more rundown than the rest of the buildings with lots of splits in the walls and a nice rusty roof. I havn`t glued the centre wall in yet. Will do that tonight.
Let me know what you think.
admin
November 2011
I love the coloration and graining.. the splits and cracks look natural. This will look terrific with the way you have colored and weathered the main bldg and cookhouse.
Wes
December 2011
Ok work continues on the build. Ive completed the main barn roof eventually. The thing is huge. It took me 2 evenings to complete. I love the result though.
Let me know your thoughts.
Karl.A
December 2011
Looks awesome Wes, really nice job. The colour definition between the boards is well defined but subtle.
I was reluctant to put the roof on mine the first time as it looked so cool with the studs and everthing when the walls were glued together, then when I finally put the roof on it looked even better, just like yours.
If you think its big now just wait till you get the rest of it built and put together!!! ha ha.
Great work, keep having fun and keep posting this great progress.
Karl.A
Dwaine46
December 2011
Wes, your barn looks great along with your work/machine shop shed.
Are you using chalks to color your wood or are you staining it?
The colors really look good. And you don’t seem to be having the fuzzies like i am…
Doing good,
Dwaine
Wes
December 2011
Thanks again for the Lind words karl and Dwaine. I’m looking forward to putting the rest of this monster together.
Dwaine, I Havnt used any chalks on this build. Just an AI stain that I mixed up. as for the fuzzies, I have just used an old pencil eraser to rub them off. I Havnt distressed the wood too much with the wire brush so fuzzies have also been minimal.
Dwaine46
December 2011
I’ve been working on the barn roof for some time now, and hopefully got it finished so I can start on the warehouse. Your right Wes, don’t realize just how big it is until the roof is finally on. Super!!
Wes your coloring looks great, I sure thought about using one of the ‘craft paint’ soaking stains and weathering with chalk. Still might do it when I get to the machine shop shed.
Comments welcome,
Dwaine
Dwaine46
December 2011
Don’t guess I attached my image.. try again…dwaine
Wes
December 2011
I like how it has turned out Dwaine. The colouration on your door is especially nice. have you completed any of the other buildings in the kit? Its nice to be building the same kit with someone else.
I keep meaning to work on the thing, but work and other activities are taking up all my time. I hope to post soon.
Dwaine46
December 2011
Have just now finished the walls for the whse.
Not as far along as I would want to be, my cruse director has decided that other things are more important. At least I got all the Christmas lights up…
Wes
December 2011
Coming along nicely Dwaine. Im really loving the build of this beast. Lastnight i completed all the roofs of the main buildings. i also glued the smokestack onto the office roof. That and the tar paper will be weathered tonight with some migand bragdon weathering powders.
Here is a pic of the 3 main buildings and the loading dock posing for a trial run pic. Nothing is glued together. Please ignore the photo quality.
LSNRwyAl
December 2011
I like both builds men.
brownbr
December 2011
Nice builds on a very interesting structure.
Karl.A
December 2011 edited December 2011
I think i’m gonna jump back in on this one…
Time to re-open the box and work on some stripwood…
Karl.A
**
Karl.A**
January 2012
Karl.A
Karl.A
January 2012
Karl.A
admin
January 2012
love that peeling paint…
Karl.A
January 2012
Thanks indeed Brett, I’m real pleased with it.
Karl.A
Kevin
January 2012
Hey YM, that looks ab-fab!!! Especially because I know it probably took you no more than 5min. To get that result.
OM
Note: ab-fab is absolutely fabulous which is crazy Brit comedy that is making a return soon.
brownbr
January 2012
Very nice. How did you do the peeling paint effect?
Karl.A
January 2012
Thanks very much Kevin, you know me too well… (4mins)
Thanks Brian, the peel was done using tape to lift the paint.
Karl.A
Dwaine46
January 2012
Karl, looking good man !!!
Are you going to “peel” the window and door frames? Have done my walls, but can’t decide on a color for the door and windows…Dwaine
Karl.A
January 2012
Thanks indeed Dwaine.
Actually the windows, window frames and door frames have already been coloured using 408.5 chalk (same colour as the barn). They will remain as ‘bare wood’ with no paint added. I like this look as per Bretts model on the website, simple and effective I think.
Karl.A
Bill
January 2012
Fantastic peeling paint, Karl. When you use the tape peel, had you applied hairspray or rubber cement or anything as a relief first–or just really sticky tape??
OM–wow, I haven’t heard “Ab-Fab” mentioned in years. A co-worker of mine used to love that show, and yes, they’re doing a 20th anniversary special on Sunday on BBC. Personally, I’m holding out for a “Faulty Towers” reunion.
minion
January 2012
Personally, I’m holding out for a “Faulty Towers” reunion.
I wouldn’t hold your breath , Bill . Can’t see it ever happening .
Nick
Karl.A
January 2012
Karl.A
admin
January 2012
love the recessed windows…
Wes
January 2012
The subtle hint of nail holes is done brilliantly Karl.
Karl.A
January 2012
Thanks indeed Brett and Wes,
Finished installing the windows/door and glued the front three walls together (big wall is just propped up for now.
Karl.A
Kevin
January 2012
That looks f…ing awesome YM!
OM
Wes
January 2012
hey guys
Im back with some minor progress. karls work is pretty impressive and is seriously pushing me to improve my modelling.
Ive finished the drill press and the grinder for the repair shed.
Ive also managed to complete the floor that they will stand on.
Looking forward to your comments.
Wes
January 2012
Sorry I forgot to mention that the grinding wheels and the wire representing the drill bit on the press still need to be added.
Bill
January 2012
Hey, the surf must have calmed down. “Wave Slave” Wes has parked his board and he’s back at the work bench!! Looks like a nice start on your machinery. How’d you do the chipped paint? Looks like Depot Green, correct?
I tried to add a hint of color to the supports on my husk saw with ok results, so I’m interested to hear how you did it.
The whole project is looking good, Wes. Take your time and keep at it.
And enough hangin’ 10! Between you and your surfing and Kevin and his golf nonsense.
sigh
Well, I’m goin’ snowmobiling. I’ll check back when you guys get serious about our hobby!
Karl.A
January 2012
Good to see you back at the bench Wes. Great job on those details, nice chip effect and not over done, just used.
I’ll be interested to see how you make these ‘operational’.
Great work
thanks for the compliments.
Karl.A
Wes
January 2012
Hey Bill. Good to be back at the bench again. Thought I’d post something before you guys all gave up on me. I promise to do more modelling than surfing. 
Thanks Karl. Much appreciated. Always nice to hear your comments, although your last few posts have seriously made me think of taking up knitting or some other hobby.
Regards
Wes
Wes
January 2012
Hey guys
Below is the tractor that will sit in the repair shed. Still some mud, engine grease and dust to be applied. What a beautiful little kit it is. So easy to put together.
And here is the 16mm MDF base that I cut on my friends CNC machine.
Look forward to your thoughts.
morganhillrr
January 2012
Looking good Wes. A really neat looking little tractor…Joe CCCModOn30
Wes
January 2012
Hi Joe
Thanks for your comment.
admin
January 2012
Love the tractor - as you mention a little mud and grease will finish her off nicely. That MDF base is really nice. I have been been using MDF for over ten years now and have never had a warping/swelling problem… A wonderful product for diorama bases!
Wes
January 2012
Thanks Brett.
Yeah its a really cool product to use. never had any problems with it either.
Kevin
January 2012
I think the tractor looks great Wes and when you grunge it up it will be even better. My only suggestion would be about the seat which would probably have no paint at all left on it. An easy way to do these seats is to just polish the high spots slightly after the blacken-it and leave it like that. I think you can see how we did it on the pilot model.
KO
Wes
January 2012
Thanks for that Kevin
I`ll do the same to the steering wheel. Always nice when someone picks up on something youve left out. It helps alot.
brownbr
April 2012
I hope its OK if I jump in here. I’d like to have main structure done before my backdrop gets painted in a few weeks. Having it ready will help in spacing the tracks. Not to mention it’s probably going to take a while to lay the track so whatever isn’t done will be put on hold.
I was tempted to make the barn portion a “barn gray” but I liked the browns in the pictures on the website so I stuck with those. My main color was 234.3 with 231.5 & 234.5 added randomly to give a rich golden tone. For the doors it was 234.3 with 408.9 to gray it up.
I felt like those big doors needed some big hinges so I installed some I got from vector cut.
I’m undecided about the stencil. I don’t want to too much of the same thing and I just stenciled the railroad camp so I will wait and see.
I considered doing an interior like Dwayne is doing because it looks so cool but I doubt that will happen. But you never know I may get ambitious. I’d kind of like to see a guy coming out of the barn pushing the hand cart.
Wes
April 2012
I hope to get back to this soon Bryan. Ive been super lazy lately after the house move. Weather is alot cooler here as we move into winter, hopefully the need to build will bite soon.
Keep up your good work, its a great inspiration.
Karl.A
April 2012
Looking great so far Bryan, I really like the colour of your wood tones on the siding. Construction is up to your usual standards.
Weathering and aging are very nicely done, but not overdone.
Karl.A
Good to read you again Wes, I feared you had hopped a wave headed in the wrong direction.
Wes
April 2012
Hi Karl
Yeah weve had a really hot summer, so the water has been alot more inviting than the hot garage. Alot cooler here now, so im looking forward to getting back to the bench.
Dwaine46
May 2012
Slowly getting back into this, it is already getting too hot to be outside.
Painted w/ the Floquil Signal Red and Daylight Orange, then spot painted random bricks.
Gave it a rubdown w/ plaster, then rubbed down w/ chalks.
I’ve looked at it so much now, am I too red and do I need to rub on more chalk???
Thanks……….dwaine
admin
May 2012
Dwaine, I like the color of the bricks but I think what might be nagging at you is the amount of plaster “mortar” left on the casting. Call me when you got a minute and we can talk about it…
Wes
May 2012
Your progress has got me started on this project Dwaine. So ive pulled it out and started creating some of the details for it. below are some pics. Let me know your thoughts.
The repair shed with some of the details Glued down. More will be added when I attach it to the base.
The stunning gas pump that comes with the Kit. its a real gem and im really happy with how it turned out. Still need to add the handle to it.
And lastly a little table that will be added somewhere on the diorama. im busy rusting up some more tools to add to it.
looking forward to your comments.
Dwaine46
May 2012
Wes, looking really good. Signs really makes the differance don’t they. And buy the way the gas pump to me is awsome, the color changes with the white paint are great.
dwaine
Dwaine46
May 2012
Brett, after looking at it, I realized what you were trying to tell me. I had covered up the ‘charterer’ or 3 dimensional effect of the building with plaster. Trying not to scratch the brick, I took a wooden stick to scrape out the excess mortar from around and on top of the brick. Gave it a coating of pra w/ India ink, followed by chalks. Not quite happy with the weathering yet, but getting rid of that excess mortar sure helped a lot.
Thanks………..dwaine
Karl.A
June 2012
Looking much better now Dwaine, the 3 dimensionality of the bicks is starting to show through, I look forward to seeing the next steps.
Karl.A
Karl.A
June 2012
I finally got back to this build a few days ago. I decided to start with something small to ‘ease’ myself back into the modeling mode.
I picked the tractor for my re-start point, it’s a great little kit all by itself and I figured it would be something I could see through to the end before I got distracted again.
Finishing a model, section, kit is always a great satisfaction, for me anyway.
Here are some pics of my progress with the tractor so far, still quite alot to do, but, the end is nigh…
Karl.A
Karl.A
June 2012
Blackened and buffed the parts, as usual with Bretts castings there was no ‘clean-up’ required, pretty much ready to go out of the box.
I decided on yellow for my colour as I really like the contrast you can get with chip effects.
I started the chipping process with the wheels to see how things were gonna come out… I liked the results.
Next on the list was to work on the main block.
Next up was to work on the hood/gas tank
Although the tractor is stripped down and under repair while getting an engine overhaul I decided to add a few more scratched details that arent included in the kit itself.
Once installed on the diorama most of these wont be seen, but hey, I enjoyed doing it and had some fun pushing myself a little.
I started off with the spark plug leads.
As that was so much ‘fun’ I made some further piping and details to add, mostly made from brass.
While they were sitting in the blacken-it I started wiring the engine.
The two main parts have now been epoxied together and will be left overnight to cure before I start adding any further detail.
Karl.A
Dwaine46
June 2012
Karl don’t expect me to put plug wires on my tractor, they would be stuck to the lugs! I’m having a hard enough time just getting my castings painted and weathered, and you want me to do what? I bet Brett did not expect anyone to take the little kit so far. Of course I could say something smart a.. like you have the wrong firing order, but I won’t.
keep it up! dwaine
Dwaine46
June 2012
Up until now I haven’t really understood why you guys would build dioramas.
The other night my grandson thru a switch, the result sent my shed for the woodcutters shack flying along with quit a few castings.
NOW, I know why you build dioramas……………………… Little fingers can play with the train and the plastic buildings. And maybe in a few years I can put my dioramas together in a nice On3 layout like some of you are doing. But until then !
I just could not stand it, I had to start putting things together. This is not a small complex of buildings.
My question is, with this being my first diorama and thinking On3. What size crossties do I lie down, along with size or gauge track? dwaine
Karl.A
June 2012
Looking great Dwaine… stick it up on a high shelf…quick!!!
That peeling red paint really came out NICE !!!
I’ll post some more later when I go back inside from the deck and get to a desk, but for now… “great job!”
Karl.A
LSNRwyAl
June 2012
The way I went was purchased a single piece of track and use that as a size template. Also remember narrow guage always had lighter ties (read thinner) and lighter pound rail. Part of the reasons they did “narrow guage”.
Wes
June 2012
I like how your peeling paint came out Dwaine.
Nicely done.
Karl.A
June 2012
Some more work on the tractor…
Finished pics later today…
Karl.A
Bill
June 2012
WOW. Just wow, Karl. The weathering is so well done. You’re in the zone on this one.
I’m not familiar with the kit or the prototype…was there only one headlight? Not a criticism, but my eye was drawn to it. It makes it feel unbalanced. I see that Wes has a single light on his, too.
In any case, I’m anxious to see it completed. And when you say “finished pics later today”, can I assume that means the entire diorama? (You’re on a roll so I figured I’d toss that out there!)
Karl.A
June 2012
Thanks Bill, I really appreciate your kind comments.
Yep they only had one light, I guess when you’re headed back across the fields to the homestead at dusk you only really need one light to see where you are going…
Nope, you may need to wait for a little while longer to see the finished diorama, but for now here is the 99% finished tractor.
Karl.A
Wes
June 2012
Karl that is one magnificent tractor. You really have set the bar high. So high that ive dismantled mine, stripped it and going to start again.
Did you use epoxy to glue it together?
Karl.A
June 2012
Thanks Wes I really appreciate it…
Yes the tractor was assembled exclusively with 5min epoxy, it takes quite alot longer to assemble as you have to mix up a small drop, glue one part on, and then wait till it dries, then move onto the next part. However the epoxy makes a much stronger bond than anything else on these metal kits.
I’ve had one or two projects ‘disintergrate’ before now because I used regular glue, and that is VERY frustrating!
Karl.A
Wes
June 2012
Thanks Karl.
I used super glue previously, but things broke off too easily. Hope to get it back together this weekend.
Dwaine46
June 2012
Karl, Wes thanks for the comments on the peeling paint. I think that is the easiest thing I have done. That is one of the most easiest and effective processes I’ve seen.
Karl, like Bill said WOW. In my mind I thought the yellow was going to be a little strong. But with the rust and weathering, it looks so natural. And Karl, the wheels would be shiny if the tractor has been in the field any time soon.
Alan, thanks for the thoughts on the cross ties and track. Thinner ties and lighter rail, that I can do. Brett had mentioned 4x8, that being in line with what you suggested, It all depends on what size lumber I can find around here. I am guessing 6’ long with 12” separation?
LSNRwyAl
June 2012
A comment from a “former lad” in farm country in Ontario Canada. Tractors before the bemoths we have now were very rudimentory. Lights were mostly optional and most farmers could not afford them or chose to not pay for them.
Karl.A
June 2012
Thanks Dwaine, I appreciate the kind comments. Yellow is one of my favorite colours for these effects, a nice contrast with blackened bare metal and it discolours very nicely with Bretts chalk techniques.
Karl.A
Karl.A
September 2012
Wes, Dwaine, Bryan… and anybody else building this kit…
How about seeing some of your progress shots… I need some inspiration and motivation to get back to the bench… and particularly this build.
Karl.A
brownbr
September 2012
Well Karl here is an update. First thanks for reminding me that I have not posted in a long while. It sounds kind of seedy to say that I have been a lurker, but if the shoe fits…
I have the main set of structures complete with most of the details installed. I have been populating the area and have it set temporarily in place on the layout. The only things left to do are a few details like a pile of pallets, the mail box and light pole. I’m planning on lighting this one with LED’s in the light pole, under the porch roof and maybe one above the doorways on the loading dock. I also have to keep my eyes out for some dry transfers to put on some of these crates. I think that would look cool.
The 2nd pic shows it’s location at the end of the layout. Since this layout is a couple of feet longer than my last one in N scale, the lights end where you see the big tree trunk rising behind the camp office. This hides the wiring that was previously hidden by a backdrop. This causes lots of shadows at the end of the layout. I may add another string of lights at the end or leave it as is and call it a setting sun causing the shadows. The lights on the buildings will take care of this area either way.
I really like putting LP’s in the scene as they bring it to life for me. There is a group having a Coke, a dock worker, a guy filling his coffee pot at the cooler, a pair of guys adding an extension to the fence, a worker looking for his lost tool and a guide backing a loco up to the dock.
This project got put on a hold for me also as I am currently fixing turnout problems, but once that is finished I want to finish this project up. I won’t be building the workshop right away. That will end up in another part of the layout. Maybe to the right of the rigging shed in photo 2 or on the other side of the layout near the sawmill.
Wes
September 2012
Hey Bryan
Some nice looking mini scenes going on there. The first picture in particular looks good.
Karl I need to get off my backside and take some pics of where I am with this build at the moment. Ill try and get some done tonight.
Karl.A
September 2012 edited September 2012
Well, you really have made alot of progress Bryan, thanks for bringing us up to date on the build. The Lp’s really do add some life to the structure and tell a story.
Some really good modeling throughout !! Definately what I was hoping to see for motivation, keep us informed of your progress when the track issues are resolved.
Wes, post some pics already!
Thanks to you both for responding, great to hear (and see) that progress is being made, albeit not on my bench…
Karl.A
Wes
September 2012 edited September 2012
Hi all
Well thanks to Karl, i found some time to post pics where I am with this build. So far all the buildings are placed, 75% of the scenery is done and some of the huge amount of castings are placed. So many more to go.
Here are the pics.
Ive added some barb wire here instead of the wooden fence to change it up a little.
I have a tree or 2 that I want to add as well as some more taller shrubs. Let me know your thoughts.
Karl.A
September 2012
Incredible looking diorama Wes !!
The structure looks fantastic and the scenery is really coming along well.
Cant wait to watch you moving into the final phases of the build and detailing the heck out of it.
Adding the corrugated to the porch and cookhouse has really personalised your model. The corrugated material came out really well indeed, awesome rust effect.
I hope you kept the shed roof removeable as I’d really like a closer look at that great looking tractor ‘peeking out’ of there.
Karl.A
admin
September 2012
Simply outstanding Wes, I really like the barbed wire fence and as Karl mentioned the corrugated. The peeling paint on the pump and oiler looks very convincing too. Can’t wait to see it fully detailed!
Bill
September 2012
Hmmm. Looks like you guys have been sandbaggin’ on us. LOTS of progress, indeed.
Bryan-
Wow! That 4th picture shows off those tones and texture in your wood work. Good stuff! I also LOVE the contrast between the siding on Shelby’s and the wood on the landing/staircase (picture 7). I never would have considered making one darker than the other, but that combination works perfectly.
Wes-
Another wow! It’s already been mentioned but I gotta congratulate your work on the corrugated roofing. The roof over the tractor shed is exceptional! Coming off my struggles with this stuff, I’m anxious to hear your methods. If you’ve got S-B-S pictures, please share 'em! Also on my list of photo requests, I’d like to see some close ups of the fence.
Congrats, gentlemen on some fine modeling. AND you put the ball back into Karl’s court!
What say you, Young Minion??
Wes
September 2012
Thanks for the very inspiring words Bill Brett and Karl.
I have left the roof removable, so Ill try take some pics tonight of it.
Bill the corrugated roofing turned out to be extremely easier than what I thought it would be. Ill have to show some pics this evening on how i did it.
Kevin
September 2012 edited September 2012
Hey Wes
My attentions have been elsewhere lately so I’m just getting caught up with what everyone is working on. As Karl is, I’m
really drawn to how we do our corrugated roofing and yours is outstanding as are all other components of your build. Also like the YM I want a better look at that tractor, it looks great! One nitpick if you don’t mind is the growth in the middle of the road especially where it goes around the turns so perfectly. Perhaps way less and just a subtle hint of growth or even just delineate the road with a darker shade of dirt in the middle. It’s one of those things that to me detracts rather then adds to an otherwise beautiful diorama.
OM
Wes
September 2012
Hi Kevin
Nice to hear from you again, and as always thanks for the kind comments. The road was only partly done, but last night I tore it all out and plan to restart it next week with some modifications.
I`ll post some more when Im done.
Here is a pic with the shed roof off and the tractor.
brownbr
April 2013
After the positive experience I had in lighting the tractor repair shed I decided to retrofit the Blue Sky with lights. Not as easy as doing it as you build.
I am installing 4 lights. The lamp pole at the gas pump, a goose neck over the stair landing and 2 lights under the overhangs that will have no shades. Due to the slope of the overhangs the LED’s are not seen.
To start I cut holes in the pink foam base under to pull the wires, making sure that they were completely underneath the structure and not seen. I drilled a small hole in the wall where the light would go and after wiring the LED I threaded the wires through the holes and fished them from the holes in the foam with a hook.
From there I wired the lights to an ngineering Power Distribution Jr module. A 1" hole was drilled through the plywood and a piece of scrapwood was secured underneath the hole. The module will sit in the hole. I did not want it being in direct contact with the foam. I ran a wire from the Tractor Repair lighting and fed the module.
Amazingly it worked the first time I threw the switch and I really like the effect even though the pics are grainy. If this dio ever needs to be moved I simply need to cut the feeder wires and the light module is attached to the dio.
James
October 2013
A shout out to Brownbr - first of all I love this build ! I was thinking of using some LED lights as you’ve done. In fact I’ve rigged a couple already on a different model. Did you actually get the LED in that goose neck light over the stairs? As well, I got 3mm lights instead of 5 mm - I like the size but they are a bit faint compared to the 5mm…
James
October 2013
Ditto for the light by the pump . The lights I bought are by Evans who have some cool products but I should try and see if my 3mm lights will fit under a hood.
geoawelch
September 2018
Karl, curious how Blue Sky turned out?
George
KKarns
September 2018
Lighting is great, love the image of the pow wow outside the Dry Goods store.
Karl.A
October 2018
geoawelch said:
Karl, curious how Blue Sky turned out?
George
Thanks for asking George, a little further progress was made. but. it’s currently sitting on my ‘unfinished shelf’ with a couple of others waiting for me to get started again.
Karl.A
Robert.G
October 2018
Beautiful dioramas you guys build here. One kit and so many approaches . From every build shown here, one learns something. Super !! Thanks.
Karl.A
January 2021
Gettin there slowly.
Karl.A
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, I didn’t know there was an O scale Blue Sky. Great work. Keep those updates coming. Phil
nextceo
January 2021
Welcome back to the Workbench Karl
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Phil and Alan.
Come on Phil, keep up, this baby has been out for 10yrs, innovative then, still is today.
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, I’m just not as well versed on the O scale kits. Phil
Karl.A
January 2021
Gonna have to introduce you to more my friend, there’s some empty spots on your shelves that need filling… haha
sdrees
January 2021
this is my next project Karl, but in HO scale. I will be watching closely.
Robert.G
January 2021
Wow, this is looking so good already!!! Very nice and subtle wood colors. Great to see you’re moving again Karl.. 
admin
January 2021
The weathering on the main barn wood is fantastic as is the lettering. Looking forward to more…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Steve, Robert and Brett, great to read your comments.
Full speed and then more Robert, or a standstill, still looking for that middle ground.
Lettering scared me for a while Brett, (remember I wouldnt do the pilot model one, ha), but, followed your instructions and as always with everything, came out just as you guided.
admin
January 2021 edited January 2021
Here is the story of the SW BlueSky pilot model:
“With a little help from my friends…Karl Allison and Kevin O’Neill have done some pretty heavy lifting here! They were hard at work for weeks on components for the pilot model pictured here. Karl was building the main structure in Mississippi while Kevin was digging into the tractor repair shed and painting castings in New York. We met in early February 2011 here in Dallas and put it all together. The combined talents makes for one incredible kit - lots of creative ideas flowing here folks…”
A cool story and great memories. Here you can see the pilot model Karl, myself, and Kevin constructed:
SierraWest Scxale Models | O Scale BlueSky Company Warehouse
That was really ten years ago? No way…
Karl.A
January 2021
Great times indeed, good memories.
Time for a 10yr anniversary release… hahaha
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Well, I havent done any details for over 5 years so lets see how it goes.
(all the details on the Woodcutters and Mill Engine dios I just finished were painted years ago, except for the gas pump and wheelbarrow.)
Luckily most of the smaller resin for this one is either done or started.
(Notice how I store the stripwood as I build, a few pill bottles taped together with the label for each bag, makes things handy and easy access.
Also powdered chalk in the lid of another with alcohol in the bottle for touch-up of wood ends etc.)
A few of the larger ones still to do.
And of course the vast selection of metal which is still in the box.
Except for the tractor which is sitting over on my O’Neills Wheels dio.
(gotta love that sun flare)
I guess its time to stop typin and start doin.
Karl.A
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, I like the pill bottle idea for the stripwood. I believe I will use that idea. Phil
Karl.A
January 2021
Now I just gotta find the handpumps for these little suckers. Hmmm
Karl.A
January 2021
Beer O’clock.
Jim M
January 2021
Beautiful
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Jim, I moved on to the plethera of metal masterpieces…
A quick picture of my work process with so many castings to do.
Karl.A
January 2021
job done, time to eat…
MuddyCreekRR
January 2021
You are inspiring me to also get back into the shop…my summer long project (that carried thru the fall) is almost complete…a 1:1 scale 8x12 2 story shed…bottom floor wood shop (on the small side) and loft area for storage…a must get done…now…I can get back into the basement shop and work on the wee stuff…anxiously awaiting the next installment of the O scale Foundry…
TomMich
January 2021
Always fun to see the transformation of all those beautiful castings!
brownbr
January 2021
I like those lubesters
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Art, Tom and Bryan, a little progress this afternoon, putting these danged glasses on and off seems to be slowing me down… ha
Joel
January 2021
Great detail work as always. Love the way the labels fade into the surface of the oil cans.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Joel,
Small progress after an early finish on a Friday afternon.
Def gonna have to rebrush the edges of those deck boards, oh well.
Robert.G
January 2021
Coming together nicely. I love those soft , mellow wood colors. One just wants to feel them.. 
Karl.A
January 2021
thanks Robert.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Finally got all the details finished and put safely to one side, I wasn’t in the mood to start graining and staining wood for the tractor/work shed so I went in the store room and found some blue foam for the base.
While looking for a new blade to cut the foam I came across this old interlocking stone wall master I built years ago for a project Brett and I were toying with at the time. Hmmm…
Unfortunately this instantly gave me a brilliant idea, dang it!!
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, it’s great following your builds again. Phil
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Phil, it’s great to be modeling and sharing again, and amongst friends.
I couldn’t bring myself to cut the old plaster master I found apart, even though it was a reject, so, I spent an hour or so searching for the ‘new, improved’ master I built and the mold of it Brett made for me way back when…
Both masters were made with individual stones, that themselves were individually made, but, the second ‘better’ one actually interlocks with itself, which makes various configurations possible and infinite lengths a reality. Thankfully I found them.
So, I dug out some plaster, made some wet water and cast the first section, along with two concrete pads for the gas pump scene. One as per the manual and one slightly longer as an option and to play with the variation.
So much for not thinking, relaxing and just following the manual, but, if it all works out, it really wont be a big diversion, only scenic wise.
Oh, I threw the other three details into the pic cos they were next to me and Im proud of how they came out.
Mountaingoat
January 2021
Love the interlace stone wall. Gorgeous rockwork. And of course your details are equally great…Rick
Robert.G
January 2021
You should be proud of them , indeed.
That manual is starting to look like a medieval parchment, manuscript with those curled yellow edges..
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Robert, it only took 10yrs to perfect the weathering on the manual, I’m pleased with how it came out.
First two castings of the wall section.
brownbr
January 2021
I always liked that interlocking wall.
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Bryan, this is a new design that I mastered about 7 years ago and has never been used or seen before. They are taking about 90mins each per cast but they are coming out perfect, I’ve got four done so far…
brownbr
January 2021
New master but not new wall
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Yes, thats my desk and those are the first resin casts of the interlocking plaster walls I mastered for the Oscale RRC Kit, the office building . Nick O built the basic walls, I added about 3/4" to each side of the walls and built those interlocking corners, fixed a few other things and built in a new window. and thats what you get in the kit I built those corners specifically for each wall and they will only go together one way, they are about 5.5"x 2.75"
These new ones are only about 3.5"x3.5", for this new wall I cast individual stones and then built the wall stone by stone. I designed and built the corners on these new walls so that they will interlock with themselves from side to side meaning they can be combined continuously in any combination and to any length, including inside corner and outside corner with a clean fit as shown in my previous post.
The interlocking is universal with itself, which was tricky to design and achieve.
This new wall was built and designed for an entirely different (discarded/forgotten) project than RRC.
Here are 4 of the new walls side by side, pulled apart to show and then pushed together.
New wall, new master, new design.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Surprisingly this is the first time I’ve used this method of constructing wall framing.
The laser cut headers and footers are awesome, as many of you that have used them already know. Cutting the remainder was simple and accurate with the templates.
So easy to make a straight, square, accurate and perfect frame with little effort,
exactly the way a framed wall should be and look.
admin
January 2021
Fantastic results. Such an easy way to achieve the full board on board look without all the tedious hand work. Cannot wait to see more!
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Brett, such an easy way to get fantastic results.
Time for me to move on with the diorama planning.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Well, I don’t like it, but, here it is… I’ve already decided I’m going to tear it apart and rebuild it differently tomorrow.
One step forward, one step back…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
So I played around in photoshop for a few minutes (20) with the last picture I posted and came up with this adjustment,
I reduced the number of ‘legs’, reduced their diameter and eliminated the bracing,
before cutting any wood,
thoughts ??
Jim M
January 2021
Seems like it would need some bracing. X braxing maybe?
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Good thinking Jim, I had lateral cross bracing planned, but, even at that previous early stage I realized that the decking supports were ‘overpowering’ the structure.
I’ll work OUR ideas into the overall finished scene, some how.
Thanks for the thoughts, any more?
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
I got bored, so, had a few more coronas, pulled that original dock apart and rebuilt it…
I’m liking it more now, definitely not as ‘heavy’ and it’s construction doesn’t overpower the structure so much.
brownbr
January 2021
I like it. I think the legs will depend on whether they are sitting on dry land or in the water. Kind of looks like you are going with a waterfront scene here which I think would be outstanding.
Jim M
January 2021
I see your point of not wanting to overwhelm the eye and distract from the structure. It would certainly have had some sort of bracing but you are obviously free to use artistic discretion. it does look good.
EmeryJ
January 2021 edited January 2021
The bracing could be steel rods similar to the ones I see on bridges, coaling towers, & water tanks. They are not over powering due to smaller size. Might add a nice rusty look as well.
Just a thought.
Karl.A
January 2021
Karl.A
January 2021
admin
January 2021
super cool!
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks man, time to clean this mess up and get out some dirt and details…
Karl.A
January 2021
Playtime…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Well, I wanted to start dirt work, but, forgot several key things I needed to do first.
Main one being the track and ties epoxied to the bare base, also,
the ‘concrete’ base for the gas pump scene, the three rail fence, the cook house…
I guess I better get to work on those first before I pull out the scenery supplies.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
I redid the cook house casting after my previous try that I didnt like.
Unfortunately after clearing the desk now I cant find the laser sheet with the window,
it’ll turn up tomorrow.
AlexR
January 2021
Karl, that brickwork turned out wonderful.
Mountaingoat
January 2021
Beautiful brickwork. Looking forward to you bringing this across the finish line…Rick
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Alex and Rick, working on sundries tonight, hopefully a day of dirt tomorrow.
Bill
January 2021
As the others have pointed out, the stone retaining wall is really outstanding. 3 different earth tones washed with a little A/I is all it took. How much drying time did you allow before washing the pieces with alcohol & ink?
I saw a few stones in the prior pic that were still wet. If you washed it while still damp, I’m surprised how you could retain that nice individual color definition.
Brick work is awesome. And I agree… gotta find those windows.
Check near the back of your desk, the chair cushion, and bottoms of your shoes. (Those are the top 3 places mine always end up.)
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Bill, the wash was black paint not A/I, i just waited till it looked dry, about 15mins.
(I found the laser window sheet in the kit box, typical)
Karl.A
January 2021
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Well I wasnt really happy with the stone walls, they look way too dark in person, and even though they are mostly covered by the dock two of the sections are very visible, I realised I had to adjust them.
So I took them off the base and threw down the first heavy layer of dirt onto the base, then removed the dio off my desk.
While that is sitting behind me drying I gave the wall sections a couple of washes of craft ‘sandstone’, this gives a lighter dusty appearance, I like it for rocks. I’m happier.
Now I need to find some other things to do while I wait for the base dirt to dry out…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Base still isn’t dry so I found some more things to do…
built the three rail fence
added the bracing to the water tank platform
added all the rafter tails (we all love that job, right? but damn its worth it)
went around all sides of the structures and touched up any clean cut
wood ends, yes, I know, some more will show up when I post pictures.
made a few more pallets, I love that jig
added the trim to the porch roof
re-glued the store door in place, for the 4th time
stared at my shelves of models to try and decide what to finish next…
thought about weathering the tarpaper but decided, I’ve got to eat first.
Time to go cook.
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, I like your redo of the stone wall. The first one would have worked, but I’m partial to the lighter tones. Phil
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Phil, I agree with you completely, glad you like it, I’m much happier.
I’m not trying to 'raise any bars ’ right now, just relax,
That said, ‘good enough’ isn’t good enough and I wont make excuses.
If I know it needs to be better, and if I can, I will.
Piss poor ain’t happening here.
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, that’s why we build - to be innovative, to be creative, to be better, and to be proud of what we produce. Phil
Karl.A
January 2021
indeed Phil, thanks.
Note to self :- Remember to take the plastic sheeting off of the foam base before applyin the dirt !!! Dangnabit !!!
Just one more redo to add to the list, but, its been cleaned off, redone and now progress… I guess its time to glue down the structures, stone walls are epoxied and I cant put it off any longer. Progress !!!
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Everything epoxied to the base, no going back now.
no, the roofs aren’t weathered yet.
KCSTrains
January 2021
Progress!! Phil
Karl.A
January 2021
Well crap !!! now I dont have any space for the diorama, I need another new desk !!
Let the scenery begin…
kebmo
January 2021 edited January 2021
that was a pretty productive ‘waiting for the glue to dry’.
damn…
the model looks to be up to your usual standards. nicely done. i absolutely love the boards on the warehouse front wall.
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Kevin, much appreciated, I have to admit they are probably my favorite (best) of this style too, (except for the originals), love the colors, texture, age and character.
I got the desk organised, scenery on one side, details on the other side, dio in the middle, (beer close by), time to pull this baby together.
admin
January 2021
kebmo said:
i absolutely love the boards on the warehouse front wall.
second that
Karl.A
January 2021
motion carried…
thanks.
Mountaingoat
January 2021
I can’t believe how fast you have pulled all this together with such fantastic results so far. Boy, am I slow in comparison. Great work Karl…Rick
Karl.A
January 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Rick, but, dont forget I started this 10years ago, it was the second one off the ‘production line’, i think.
The initial barn walls were weathered 10 years ago,
details dont take me long, then most of my modeling time is just spent, sitting, staring, thinking…
Thanks for your kind remarks, I appreciate them.
brownbr
January 2021
Nice progress.
Never enough table space at this point in a build…that’s why mine are always sitting on a bar stool.
Karl.A
January 2021
haha Bryan, I’ve got three desks, but, always run out of space,
I generally do all my modeling in a 6" square area, except for this diorama stage…
time for a break…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
yes, I’ve fixed and adjusted the angles of the two pipes that are parrallel to each other dead center of the shot, any other touch up can be done when the glue is dry. Onto the next area !!
Unless y’all see anything else I should fix ?
Bill
January 2021
Textbook combination of scenery elements, castings and clutter, Karl.
Plenty of visual interest with subtle colors throughout and you’re left with a believable scene.
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Bill, I study your work alot and Alans scenery work on his Tombstone diorama.
I like scenery in small areas like this.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Glue’s not dry yet, and still white, but, you get the idea.
Still touch up to do, raw fence post tops, corner trim on the clap board, flashing on the cookhouse, etc.
SteveCuster
January 2021
Everything looks really great Karl. All the details really bring it to life. The horizontal siding next to the vertical really gives it character plus of course the overall texture and color of the wood is fantastic.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Steve, great to read you, appreciate your comments.
of course the horizontal next to the vertical siding looks so good because its Bretts design, I just followed the instructions .
I’ll take some credit for the texture and color, but, as you know, I just followed the manual on how to do it.
2% my incredible talent, 98% following the manual.
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, great scenery work. Of course I am a disciple of your Scenery tutorial. You are the master. Phil
TomMich
January 2021
Great scene Karl! Nice subtle colors and mixture of textures and use of details
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Phil and Tom, I’m having fun with this one.
Now I’ve gotta make up some produce crates that came in the kit for the cookhouse scene and move on with that area.
Still struggling to find something I like for ballast so that can wait.
More later.
Karl.A
January 2021
Well, I got all my mundane, day to day stuff done for today, picked up a fresh 12, time for some more evening fun.
Progress as (if) it happens.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited April 2022
Got to say I love these little produce crates Brett provides in the kit, easy to put together and look awesome, perfect example of the combination of laser and real wood building that I love.
Time to turn the corner…
kebmo
January 2021
love it
KCSTrains
January 2021
Karl, I have always liked how you do your scenery and I try to follow your example. Instead of trying to detail everything at once, you work on mini scenes and work your way around the diorama. It’s a great approach and leads to more detail in each scene. Phil
admin
January 2021
love it! I also enjoy your desktop shots…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited April 2022
Thanks Kevin, Phil and Brett,
I find it easier to concentrate on something small Phil, I get overwhelmed otherwise, getting each area basically finished gives me a nightly goal and sense of completion.
Thanks Brett, its been a long time since I sat here, its so good to have the desk ‘in action’ and ‘organised’ again.
The cook house area still needs ‘something’, but I’ll come back to it, I’m not in the mood to be creative yet.
Bill
January 2021
Adding that pinch of dark scenery material (under the crates and low areas near the fence) is so simple but really effective. Shadows, color contrast and depth all achieved from a simple application. You probably pointed it out previous builds but I thought it was worth mentioning.
(That way people won’t have to learn it on the streets. Like I did. LOL)
Karl.A
January 2021 edited April 2022
Thanks for pointing that out Bill, always good to have you following along and spotting things with your excellent eye I forget to mention, layering always adds depth to our models throughout, whether it be, wood coloring/graining, detail painting, and now, as you point out, scenery.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited April 2022
I wanted an empty trashcan for a scene I’m thinking about. Went through all my kits and the only one I could find was the large one, I wanted a small empty one.
Unfortunately I dont have a fancy miller like Alex so I grabbed a small ‘full’ trash can and my dremel and went to work.
Karl.A
January 2021
Those pesky racoons got in the trash again…
Mountaingoat
January 2021
Gotta love those racoons. That was worth the effort to empty the trash can. One more reason we are waiting for Brett’s 3D printed junk to be available in HO too…Rick
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Rick, it was easier than I thought it would be.
I fixed the crates, swapped out that limb which was the wrong color and dusted off the wall and roof, oh, and I chopped down that dead bush that was next to the fence and kept grabbing my eye so I planted a new green one instead.
now I’ve got to decide where to go next…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Where the hell is Wes?.. dudes probably out on his surfboard catching a wave or ten, somebody needs to paddle out and go get him. hahaha
Karl.A
January 2021
Trying to plan this side out, but, I’m just not ‘feeling’ it… I think I’ll just go around to the store porch and give my brain a break for now.
kebmo
January 2021
a burn barrel and associated debris would be appropriate and look pretty cool too.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Kevin ! Yes ! but…
the crates and things feed the cook house stove.
But its a great idea i’ll incorporate it into the boat yard, thanks, keep it coming…
As Brett will agree, I love me a burn barrel.
sdrees
January 2021
these mini scenes of yours are just fantastic. I like the story they tell.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
I cleared some desk space and am makin progress on the porch side while we think about and brainstorm on that stairway side, I’m open to ideas on the stairway side.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Steve, sorry, we were cross posting.
I always feel re-creating a plausible story increases the reality of a scene, based on familiar, logical reality improves the look and helps people associate with what they see and relate to.
brownbr
January 2021
Nice and lively scene. I’ll be expecting a raccoon.
TomMich
January 2021
Paper would be blown in and around, especially under the stairs and of course the raccoons would have dragged some cans or bottles under the stairs where they could enjoy the fruits of their labor!
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks for the comments and input Bryan and Tom, good to read you, maybe I’ll get around to figures Bryan.
Joel
January 2021
Finally catching up on this thread and there is so much to enjoy and study. The siding, the peeled paint the work benches and the garbage can pop but everything is so beautifully detailed and the colours and textures are just spot on. Looking forward to the next update.
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks for your kind words Joel,
slow progress right now, maybe an update later if I finish the porch/driveway.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Couldnt find a casting of a racoon Bryan, so, here’s what chased those pesky varmits away…
Dont let that grey muzzle and grey eyebrows fool you, he’s still got a sparkle in his eyes, and ALL his teeth.
Dont get too close to his truck or his ‘squeeky rabbit’ … haha
I sure do miss that big ole boy…
brownbr
January 2021
The dog tells a fun story and nicely painted.
If you add the phrase “3d printed” to any search phrase you can likely find something at Shapeways. I saw a nice looking skunk family there yesterday while browsing for raccoons. I’m going to need those skunks at some point.
Mike Engler
January 2021
Talk about a time warp! I finished up my HO build of “Son of Brass and Iron Foundry” and I’m contemplating what the next project will be, which I have decided will be in O scale. So I’m considering “Logging and Tractor Repair Shed” or “Blue Sky Warehouse” and I look on this forum to see if there is a discussion thread on Blue Sky and sure enough here is this one at the top of the current discussions.
I’ve been away for a few weeks and was really happy to see my old convention roomie back posting and when I looked to see when this thread was started I couldn’t believe it was June 2011. It has to be one of the first ones on Brett’s forum. After a year or so there were a couple of lulls, one starting in October 2013. Next post was on September 2018 asking Karl how this turned out. Karl replies a little progress has been made. Next post was January 10, 2021 and Karl says “Gettin’ there slowly”.
While I was away for a few weeks there have been almost five pages of great modeling and photos by one of the best ever- Karl A. Great going friend- delighted to see you back and a lot of the old gang back admiring your fabulous work.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Bryan,
I actually meant I couldnt find one here in my drawers, not ready to be spending right now, besides, I got enough here to keep me busy and going for quite some time, lol.
Thanks for those kind words Mike, its good to be back at the bench and trying again. The logging tractor shed and the bluesky was the same choice I had, my bluesky was further along so that made it easier for me to ease back into this whole modeling thing after the boiler house and wood cutters I just finished…
I’m already looking at my shelves trying to decide whats next my friend, so thats a good thing.
Thank you always for your continued support through out and our friendship.
Karl.A
January 2021
Tonights goal is to get the dirt road, gas pump scene and boat slip finished… we’ll see
Mountaingoat
January 2021
Bare dirt calling your name! Waiting to see what you do with it…Rick
Karl.A
January 2021
Indeed Rick !!
It sure is a big empty space and if you know my modeling, big empty spaces ain’t my thing.
I have an idea or two, but damn its a lot of real estate.
It’ll work out…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Laying out the gas pump scene as per the manual before I finish weathering the details, build/paint the gas pump and glue it all down.
Time to paint the pump,
this casting always reminds me of Kevin sitting in ‘the casting room’ ten years ago working on the original for the pilot, I kept going in every 20mins and asking him “are you done yet?” haha…
his reply… “I’m Doaning it up”
I guess that’s why I always leave this casting till last. Great memories.
(and I obviously found the handles for the oil boys as you can see, the models are awesome anyway, but that next level of SWSM detail makes a big difference every time)
EricMG
January 2021
A closeup on the tanks would be great. Love the two levels. On the side you weren’t “feeling” aren’t the vertical boards a bit large? They must be nearly two feet across compared to the door.
admin
January 2021
Old southern barns had super wide boards… swamp cypress. Very common down here. Our trees grow really big down here bro! I have purchased old barn boards for shelving and 30" is common.
EricMG
January 2021
Up here a board that wide is so valuable we use them for tables! Seriously. Funny these south, north differences.
Oddly, my porch here is cypress! Put down in 1866. Tough wood but FULL of knots!
Karl.A
January 2021
EricMG said:
On the side you weren’t “feeling” aren’t the vertical boards a bit large? They must be nearly two feet across compared to the door.
Nope, they are standard 1x12 siding the door is 30" wide hence the 2.5 boards above it. Everything is in scale.
which tanks?
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Tonights goal is to transfer all the details from the old rail dock to the new waterfront dock.
I think the only detail I epoxied down was the heavy metal scales, everything else was just Elmer’s so everything should pop off easy enough… hopefully.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Soaked around the details with ‘our’ usual clean alcohol to disolve the glue.
A few soaks and some gentle ‘wiggling’ and everything came off nice and clean, I’ll work on the epoxied scales later now that I’ve got some room.
The two main reasons for this post… Firstly, now the details are gone you can see clearly the subtle shadowing I added when they were glued in place to blend them into the dock, probably not noticed before… because it just looked natural.
Bill alluded to this in his post earlier in this thread, blending, layers, depth.
The main message though is to those of you who (like me) hesitate to do things because we get scared of messing it up. Trust me…
Almost EVERYTHING IS REVERSIBLE, if you mess it up, just try again. So just DO IT.
““The worst that can happen is you have to try it again.”” :- Brian Nolan 2007
The best advice he gave me. It set me free.
Karl.A
January 2021
Job done…
Shadows, highlights and final detailing will be added in the final diorama stage.
Mountaingoat
January 2021
I had never considered adding shadowing. I am glad you showed it. Made me go back and look at the before photos above. Thanks for the heads up…Rick
MuddyCreekRR
January 2021
Always enjoy watching you model…searching out all the little details…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks for your comments Rick and Art,
Indeed Art, its always fun to get drawn in and find the subtleties, not many in this scene yet, but, I did dull down that yellow box on top of the cabinet that was bugging me, as I’m sure you noticed.
Thanks for following along.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2021
I’m still suffering from finding time to model and a drive to sit down and model. Even with La Vida Rona and all the apparent time…people keep starting fires and making me work…now that winter has finally set in in Jersey (12 degrees today) I’ll be able to find time to get to work again on stuff…in particular those fantastic damaged drums I just got in that nifty bag…
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
I hear you Art, sometimes that motivation, and time, are elusive, but, they always show up and coincide eventually.
Did you get that woodshop/workshop finished yet? I’m looking forward to trying my hand at some of those new details soon myself.
EricMG
January 2021
Karl, the oil pumps and the gas pump missing its glass dome.
brownbr
January 2021
I agree completely with your comment about trying new things. I can’t tell you how many things I have re-done just to get it the way I want it.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Eric, the oil pumps are on page 5 with some other details, I’ll be building the gas pump later today.
Exactly Bryan, me too.
Joel
January 2021
Great little tutorial on shading and blending. Thanks for this. Great work as always
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
Thanks Joel, sometimes its the little things.
Talking of little things, 7 coronas into a 12 on a Sunday eve and I decide to try and work on the tiny shit.
I’m sure it will look great to me tonight, tomorrow might be another redo. ha
kebmo
January 2021
looks pretty good to me.
Karl.A
January 2021
Thanks Kevin, the rust isnt showing cos I’ve got my main lights on and ‘washing’ everything out with the white background and now I’m not happy with the fuel gauge size, some adjustments are needed I think.
Thoughts?
Karl.A
January 2021 edited January 2021
I made the gauge narrower/less intrusive and I like it better now… I can even still read the numbers through the glass with my strong glasses on…
to be honest this is back to the original gauge I printed before I tested it, and then I made it wider to make it more visible because I thought it would be better, I shoulda just stuck with my first instinct.
Mike Engler
January 2021
Your strong glasses are better than mine. I like your redos- I don’t do them very often as I usually find my first instincts are better but I am not the perfectionist you are or as good a model builder. This thread is fun!
Speaking of “The little things” that is the title of a new movie I just watched on HBO Max with Denzel Washington. I must have dozed off as I didn’t get the plot. I should have started my new model. Anywhere I look I won’t be able to achieve anything near what those who went before me did (you, Brian Nolan, others).
It is hard to visualize how good some model builders like you are and then there is someone like Brett who also can concept them and then design them. Makes my head explode.
Karl.A
January 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Mike, kind words indeed.
Ummm I came before you? lol, back when I first started modeling I saw your SWSM builds on RRL and dreamed of being as good as you one day.
Also, I’ve been in your house and seen that wall filled with modeling awards and certificates remember, you are definitely one of the best and always an inspiration.
Did you pick your next project yet? I’m going to be studying your “Main Street” dio closely for ideas as soon as I get this ‘BlueSky’ done and maybe get my O scale version of “Main Street” finished next…
brownbr
February 2021
I like the fuel gauge added. Did you use the included acrylic tube for the glass or find a piece with thinner walls?
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Bryan. I used the tube provided, it has a 3mm(1/8) hole, the gauge is about 2mm(5/64) wide.
Jerry
February 2021
A fine job your doing young man!
Keep up the great work!
Jerry
Karl.A
February 2021
Thanks Jerry, great to read you.
Karl.A
February 2021
A bottle cap filled with sand or ballast makes a great holder for supporting those oddly shaped little details while the epoxy dries.
Karl.A
February 2021
TomMich
February 2021
That pump island is a diorama in itself. Love the weathering.
Karl.A
February 2021
Thanks Tom, I got the mailbox done too,
thats it for this side till the final go around,
I think I’ll leave the light pole until after I’ve done the roof stacks because I know I’ll knock it over at least once.
EricMG
February 2021
The pump glass looks WAY too high.
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
No it doesnt. Do some research, its perfect.
To the ceiling, 8’ tall without the sign…
Mountaingoat
February 2021
I just can’t find words to describe your work Karl. Absolutely fantastic…Rick
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks so much Rick, really appreciated.
AlexR
February 2021
These are old style gravity pumps, there was no pump other than the hand pump that transfered the fule from the storage tank to the glass. you paid for what was in the glass, then it drained into the vehicle. Thus, the pump needed to be tall to have enough pressure to flow into the gas tank of the car or truck. The gass in the cylindar had to be at a higher elivation than the tank it was to flow into.
Below is an intersting tidbit on the subject.
“By the 1915s, some visible gas pumps stood upwards of 10-feet tall. The cylinders were marked, by gallon, similar to a large science beaker. Beyond being a measurement device, these pumps demonstrated the clarity of the gasoline; at the time, customers became increasingly aware that pollutants in gasoline would harm their engine.”
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Great info Alex, thanks.
EricMG
February 2021
I was wrong. You are correct.
brownbr
February 2021
Your fuel appears to be on E.
ALCO
February 2021
Mic drop. LOL
Mike Engler
February 2021
Actually Eric was right. The girl in the pump glass research photo is only 3’6".
Karl.A
February 2021
mikemettelka
February 2021
Beautiful work!
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Mike, I’m really enjoying this amazing kit.
ALCO
February 2021
This kit is next on my list after I finish O’Neills. I’m enjoying you enjoying it.
SteveCuster
February 2021
Those couple shots look really great Karl. The wood texture and detail is fantastic as is the rest of the scenery and details. The chipping and weathering on the wheelbarrow is excellent too.
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Alan and Steve, great to read your comments.
Steve I stole the wheelbarrow from my woodcutters kit, and reworked it, I love that casting.
brownbr
February 2021
A very cool corner
Mountaingoat
February 2021
Such a tiny scene, yet so much character. It really adds to the diorama…Rick
Karl.A
February 2021
Thanks Bryan and Rick, it was fun to do.
Working on the last scene now then finishing touches and done.
kebmo
February 2021
pretty damn incredible
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks so much Kevin, here’s another angle where you can see more of the detail, old crates and pallets, some scrap wood ready to go into the stove. not a great angle/picture, but you can see more of the scene/area.
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Swapped out the milk churns on the loading dock with some reels of rope for rigging which makes more sense to me now that its on the waterfront. Time for finishing touches.
kebmo
February 2021
man i just love the front wall of that warehouse. i can’t get enough of it. my brushes never seem to impart that much texture.
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Kevin,
the red brush is in the plumbing section, there are two sizes, good for tight deep grain,
the two on the water come in a pack in the grilling section, I only use the small one, good for wide deep grain.
These can destroy ALOT of stripwood. So be careful. ha
I also used a couple of smaller brushes for lighter grain between the deep, it was the combination and alot of time that got the effect.
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Working out the details for the final scene with some help from Brett while I work around the rest of the diorama and fix/finish the little things.
Mocking things up and planning things out, more to come.
ALCO
February 2021
So many marvelous things from a Master Craftsman. It’s not just your craftsmanship, I also appreciate your thought process as you work through the project! Thanks for sharing.
Karl.A
February 2021
Thanks Alan, very rewarding to read your comment and appreciated.
Looking forward to following your build. Is it HO or O?
Karl.A
February 2021
Temporary gas pump till I get a better one.
Time for the water.
Mountaingoat
February 2021
You have no idea how much pleasure I get watching you bring this together. Fantastic results Karl…Rick
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks so much for your support and encouragement throughout this month Rick, it has really meant a lot and kept me motivated, along with everyone else who has posted.
Great to read you have enjoyed my enjoyment of this amazing kit, so far.
looking at my shelves and thinking about the next one to finish…
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
I should mention that this is only half of the incredible “BlueSky” Kit and diorama.
I am going to get to working on the second structure and second half of this kit sometime later this year.
For those of the readers who aren’t familiar with the full kit you can see it here…
SierraWest Scxale Models | O Scale BlueSky Company Warehouse
There is alot more to come from this great kit, and a lot more still in the box after I finish this first stage…
EmeryJ
February 2021
On order Karl. Thanks for putting out an incredible goal to shoot for sir.
brownbr
February 2021
I kind of like the funky looking gas pump.
Water effect turned out great. I might have done something less choppy, but that’s modeling preference.
Karl.A
February 2021 edited April 2022
Thats great to read Emery. You’re really going to enjoy it.
I’m looking at what to finish next, there’s a couple on the short list and I’ve pretty much decided.
All scratch builds or SierraWest
Edit :- The ‘checked’ ones are finished.
Mountaingoat
February 2021
Is everything unfinished? A couple look like they may be done, i.e. Duluth Plumbing…Rick
TomMich
February 2021
Karl, my vote is for the Loco Shops or the Sawmill!
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
About 75% are ‘finished’ Rick, most of the scratch structures are just going to stay as stand alone structures. There are about 5 that I want to have on finished dioramas.
I went back and checked off the finished ones Rick
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
I’d like to Tom, but I’m keeping it simple for now, I’m not ready for either of those yet.
It’ll probably be one of the Main Street scratch upscales.
TomMich
February 2021
Whichever you choose it will be a great build to follow. Always enjoy seeing what you do.
Karl.A
February 2021
Thanks Tom.
Karl.A
February 2021
Finishing touches,
made and installed the gas scene lamp pole.
getting the roof details ready for install.
brownbr
February 2021
I need extra shelving like this.
vietnamseabee
February 2021
Karl…how many years worth of your efforts are we looking at on the shelves? Always a learning experience to follow your builds…am happy to know I’m not the only modeler who has a hard time finishing a build…keep on keepin’ on
Terry
KCSTrains
February 2021
Continued great scenery work Karl. I love your imagination in setting the scene. I see you also install pins on your roof stacks. It really works well. Phil
ALCO
February 2021
You should charge money for people to see your handiwork!
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks guys.
Its nice to look at them when they are done Bryan, and also good to be reminded of what still needs to be done.
That’s probably about 5 or 6 years of ‘work’ Terry, apart from the Locoshop, I used to be quite prolific when I started, there’s more on a different shelf behind me and several stacked up in the laundry room, and O scale Shelby’s is out in the main room, I really haven’t done anything for the last 5 years, until the last few months, so its good to be back in here modeling again.
Thanks Phil, I like the extra support when placing the stack and also as a handle when painting.
That would be nice Alan, but, they’re all free for anyone to enjoy. (donations are welcome tho, haha)
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
I deleted my previous posts on the water for a couple of reasons,
firstly, I tried to adjust a few areas the next day which started a downward spiral, I started getting frustrated and impatient, rushed a few steps and messed it all up completely.
secondly, its not really a standard method, even though its similar to modgepodge or liquitex, but it is really quite out of the norm and inappropriate to post, so I thought it best to remove it… and now, onward.
I’m not trying to hide my mistakes, I just dont want anyone else to repeat them and end up in trouble. I should have thought it through better before I posted, I’m out of practice.
Karl.A
February 2021 edited April 2021
Well guys, I need to walk away from this for a little while (no, it won’t be another 10 years, hopefully less than 10 weeks) but, I can feel myself ‘forcing it’ and that’s never a good sign for me.
I’m very happy with everything so far, all that I have left to do is the track and the water, so not a big deal, but, I don’t want to push it and mess all this work up at the last stage just to ‘get it finished’.
I need to do some research for the water I want, also something for the track, I can do this in the background and come back next week.
Thanks for all of your comments, support and ideas on this build throughout this last month, I’ll hopefully see you in another build thread shortly and meet you back here in a week or so for the final pics.
Karl.A
Karl.A
February 2021
A quick view from all four corners before I stick it up on the shelf.
mikemettelka
February 2021
I really like your idea of making it waterside… really makes it neat
Mountaingoat
February 2021
So close. Looking forward to you finding what you want for completion.,..Rick
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Mike, me too, I really like how it came together while mostly staying true to Brett’s original design, except for the scenery.
Hopefully soon Rick, I know what I want, I just need to make sure I can do it. Sometimes I can make better progress if I start with a pause, instead of rushing forwards. I’ve learned that the hard way a few times.
mikemettelka
February 2021
I’d be interested to see if this setup would work good with the upcoming riverfront (I know ho scale) scene…
Joel
February 2021
Karl, Just fantastic work. Each scene is a mini masterpiece. Thanks for taking the time to post. I learn so much studying the photos and the detailed comments. It’s so close…
Karl.A
February 2021 edited February 2021
Thanks Joel, really appreciated. I’m not really sure I can teach YOU much, but I’m glad you enjoy looking.
Close, but no cigar, yet.
Robert.G
February 2021
Karl, another fantastic accomplishment. What a build. Been enjoying every post and studied the whole proces. The more because I started with this kit as well. Thanks so much for taking the time to document this build.
The man is back ! 
Karl.A
February 2021 edited April 2022
Thank you Robert, so good to hear from you. I remember studying yours and am pleased you have enjoyed mine, so far.
Wes
February 2021
Karl my friend. I hope you are well.
So nice to come back to the forum after a long time and see your incredible building again. Between the spending time with the kids, the new business and trying to find time to surf I just haven’t had any modelling mojo for quite some time. Seeing this thread has definitely started to get my creative juices going again.
That last shot you posted shows that you haven’t lost your touch. Cant wait to see more.
Karl.A
March 2021
Thanks Wes, so great to read you bud, I was wondering where you were. So pleased to read that you have been busy with the good things in life. Enjoy it my friend and thanks for the post.
Karl.A
March 2021 edited March 2021
2011…
sdrees
March 2021
Just some great work Karl
admin
March 2021
Ahhh, that was a great weekend. That is a picture of Kevin O’Neill in my workroom building the tractor on the BlueSky diorama. Karl took that pic…
Jerry
March 2021
“A picture is worth a thousand words!!”
Jerry