Robert started this thread in February, 2021
Robert.G
February 2021 edited February 2021 in O Scale Builds
Ok guys, after some contemplating about what to choose for the next project, I decided to attack the Blue Sky Company kit.
Now, for this one I had to do some serious thinking, that is, it looks like I can never just open the box( of any kit) and just do as the manual tells me to. Which is perfectly fine by the way. But Robert.G wouldn’t be himself if he wasn’t gonna modify the kit in question.
So first, I always find it hard to leave the builds closed. The outsides are always so great, the insides, the laser cut walls, also, but nobody ever gets to see them, so as with previous builds, I decided to open this one also. BUT… that has some serious consequences.. If you want people to look inside, there have to be some interesting things to expect. In this case, what did I plan to do…
First, and let it be well understood, the kit as is is just great, I only want to make it my personal version of it. Hence the twist…
So, to begin with, I changed the loading dock doors to two big sliding ones. So the opening will be much wider and more of the inside can be seen. The doors are not completely opened, so one can see the door construction from the back when peeping inside..
That means that a floor needs to be installed. No problem.. 
I also lowered the first floor opening in the wall. Usually this opening is on the same level as the floor of the first floor. Which is also the ceiling of the ground floor. Makes sense, because otherwise heavy goods lifted with the pulley need to go higher, pulled inside and lowered again. Same when stuff needs to go out that way. Research was done on the internet. pics on request.. btw, the door on the side wall is also on that level…
I also made an opening at the back , where the cookhouse would be installed. That will get another location. I figured all those goods can’t go in and out just through the original smaller doors, on a relatively narrow loading dock.
But as the floor of the ground floor is at the same level as the loading dock, higher than the outside ground level, I will install a ramp leading to the back entrance.
I also chose a silver gray-isch kind of weathering this time
As you can see, I don’t make it easy on myself, but it’s a challenge. An adventure.. And this is only the beginning…
Oh my God.. Now this is posted, no way back..
soon more…
Comments
ALCOALCO
February 2021
Great start! Awaiting your next installment.
Robert.G
February 2021
Forgot to say, for those not familiair with the BSC, this is a very big kit. With many sub-kits inside. Multiple buildings, tractor, machinery etc. NICE KIT…highly recommended..
SteveCuster
February 2021
That looks fantastic Robert! I love the wood color and as usual it has your unique feel already.
Dave_S
February 2021
Robert,
Off to your usual intriguing start. I like how you show the nailing pattern of the interior cross bracing pieces in the single sliding door, subtle but very effective.
I am also noticing nail heads in the structure siding, something I don’t recall spotting in your previous builds.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
Mountaingoat
February 2021
This is going to be great. Love the start. Brett loves it when we change things up…Rick
Robert.G
February 2021
Hope so Rick, no way back now…
sdrees
February 2021
Well Robert, I still have this one to build. So I will be watching.
admin
February 2021
Cannot wait to see where you go with this! Absolutely love the siding coloration, weathering, and application.
MuddyCreekRR
February 2021
The coloring of the wood looks great…this looks like it will be a great build.
brownbr
February 2021
The rust has a great texture to it.
vietnamseabee
February 2021
Now that is some seriously good looking color on that siding…anxiously awaiting your next posting
Terry
kebmo
February 2021
buckling in for this one…
KCSTrains
February 2021
Robert, I love your imagination. What a great start!! I’ll be following as well. Phil
PainTrain
February 2021
You’re off to a great start!
Karl.A
February 2021
Really looking forward to what you do with this one Robert, your style and creativity is already showing, cant wait to see more.
ALCOALCO
February 2021
Do you mind if I ask what is the trick to the variation in coloration in each board? What paint/stain are you using?
kebmo
February 2021
[waiting for this question to be answered]
Joel
February 2021
Very excited about following along Robert. Love the colouring on the siding and the nail head detail. Great start.
Jerry
February 2021
Beautiful coloring!
Jerry
jmanugo
March 2021
I’m also going to follow you. Great start Robert.
Greetings.
JM
Robert.G
March 2021
I put in the floor as I explained before. Posts and beams for the flooring of the second floor. I had to stop before it’s closed and I can’t put in any details and castings. Also have to install lights before I finish the floor.
Here’s also some progress on the walls of the second building. I changed the door which I found it to low when putting a 1/48 figure in front of it. Couldn’t go under or enter without hitting the head. ..Final weathering later on…
soon more… well, not that soon.. 
SteveCuster
March 2021
Wood looks excellent as always Robert! I love the door and handle.
CarlLaskey
March 2021
Outstanding Robert I think you have the idea of how things should look. …Carl…
Mountaingoat
March 2021
You are a master of wood for sure…Rick
kebmo
March 2021
insert superlatives here _____________________
CarlRowe
March 2021 edited March 2021
Fantastic
MuddyCreekRR
March 2021
Outstanding work…
Joel
March 2021
Fantastic colouring and texture on the wood as always.
KCSTrains
March 2021
Your woodwork looks like the real thing. Wonderful!! Phil
TomMich
March 2021
Love the floor! Great job on the wood!
Robert.G
April 2021
Hi guys, it’s been a while but I got a lot done. I told you I would give this build a serious twist, so, here’s an example. I rebuild the cookhouse completely.
I hollowed the massive chunk of resin. Never understood why it couldn’t be casted otherwise. Saves on resin…
I made the rear wall in cardboard.
The door hinges came out of the wall and left the door hanging by a few screws…
Vines took over the plastering..
I am not gonna place it against the back wall of the barn, but it will be a free standing edifice. Totally abandoned and dilapidated .The reason for this is that a tree fell on it some time ago . They cut the tree for the fireplace but didn’t rebuild the cookhouse.
What you see is a little diorama that will be placed and integrated in the ’ Big Picture’
That , you will see later. So more ‘greens’, scenery to come..
…
Mountaingoat
April 2021
Love the vine especially. The whole effect is fantastic…Rick
sdrees
April 2021
Amazing!!!
Jim M
April 2021
Incredible job
Dave_S
April 2021
Robert,
An artist’s eye for certain. Maybe even an “old world” artist’s eye might be a more apt description. You definitely see things with a different eye than most modelers. It is uncanny and very refreshing to say the least how you take the mundane and add it to the scene making it look like the real thing. I can only speak for myself I guess, but I might see this sort of thing but not even consider trying to add it to the scene. Breathtaking realism! You just made my day.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
Karl.A
April 2021
Such beautiful modeling Robert, you capture the European, especially French feel so perfectly.
Yes, there really is a difference, and having lived in both ‘worlds’ I can appreciate the differences in (real world) construction, appearance, weathering, nature and general appearance.
Australian modelers have their style, based on their environment, as do the European, the British, the western American and the NE American, oh, and the South African.
When I see your modeling I’m instantly transported to memories of driving through the countryside in France, the brick, the plaster, the stone walls and the scenery/nature just invokes that feeling. (Through out your models).
The quality of your modeling captures perfectly my distant memories and feelings of my experiences. Your modeling realism is an easy step from your pictures to my past travels.
Then of course is your skill, talent and ability to ‘adjust’ a kit based in an American reality and see through the initial components and make them your own.
Real artistry and vision, beautiful.
brownbr
April 2021
Fantastic!
kebmo
April 2021
what karl said
ALCOALCO
April 2021
Double ditto! Wow!!
TomMich
April 2021
Awesome Robert!
Alan_HAlan_H
April 2021
Terrific work!
KKarns
April 2021
Anxious to see how this will fit in to the rest of BlueSky…wonderful extreme weathering.
Joel
April 2021
Wow, what a great little scene. Now I’m itching to see the rest of the build. Fantastic work all round.
Robert.G
April 2021
The Stairway to…
For those who have build this, they will notice that I changed the orientation of the first part of the stairs. Fits better in my future diorama that way.
soon more…
KKarns
April 2021
Best looking stairs I have ever seen! Beautifully done…
Jim M
April 2021
Beautiful job.
Mountaingoat
April 2021
The precision of the construction and perfect coloring are incredible…Rick
EmeryJ
April 2021
Your weathering skill is amazing Robert!
kebmo
April 2021
take me under your wing big guy and teach me everything you know…
KKarns
April 2021
Really!..I would buy tickets to attend a Robert tells all session…lol
Robert.G
April 2021
Thanks guys.. SW forum members have free admission…
The first thing that came into my thoughts when I started the BSC kit, was that I would do something with the Blue of the BSC. That seemed the logical thing. Why would an enterprise be called Blue if there wasn’t a reference to that color in it.
As the observant one will have noticed, I changed the cardboard roof parts included in the kit into boards. So the parts that overhang are seen as boards instead of cardboard. Also these boards shine through the tarpaper as well and make the old roof more interesting.
These roofs can be taken of if work on the lights needs to be done.
Anyways… here are some photos of progress. Of course more detail comes later..
I have to do something about that shiny piece of the upper hinge. Thanks photo… 
brownbr
April 2021
The faded blue is quite good. The bare wood might be even better.
kebmo
April 2021
it almost looks like the bluegrass green of the oneill’s trim (and nortons fish camp :)).
KKarns
April 2021
Outstanding wood work…perfect tone of blue and an equally nifty idea to use that color.
TomMich
April 2021
Great wood colors and textures. Nice weathering.
ALCOALCO
April 2021
That bare wood? The epitome of excellence!
CraigH
April 2021
Nice coloring…the stairs are great
SteveCuster
April 2021
Fantastic work Robert! I love your unique style and interpretation of this kit.
Mountaingoat
April 2021
I love the incredibly believable knotty pine look…Rick
Karl.A
April 2021
Robert, the staircase is beautifully finished and built, as is the knotted siding.
Which technique did you use for the knots Robert?
As always your coloring has so much depth, tone, texture, warmth and realism.
Robert.G
April 2021 90.50.25.190
Thanks guys. Karl, I draw the knots . First a small dot with a sharpie, than with different watercolor pencils, I draw and paint the nuances of the knot. ( with magnifying lenses I might add… )
Karl.A
April 2021
Thanks Robert.
ALCOALCO
April 2021
Nothing new to say. I just had to come back today to look at pic #4 again.
KCSTrains
April 2021
Robert, everything you do makes me question whether it is 1:1 or a model. Your realism is beyond compare. Just unbelievable!!! Keep on posting!!! Phil
Robert.G
April 2021
The big barn is done, perhaps some more weathering when placed in situ. I put a corrugated roof on the loft, because I used all the boards for the floor inside…
No, not really, I just wanted to do so. By the way I ordered new boards, they came in by train but are still in the main barn waiting to be picked up and delivered to me.
Pretty much is going on inside, a wagonload of crates came in yesterday and is waiting for the trucks to take them away.
Now that I look at the photos, there is to much green on the water tank. Will take some off.
More to come…
That’s all Folks…
ALCOALCO
April 2021
These exterior shots are obviously excellent and well done but man, those interior shots sure look real! Stop messing with my mind (LOL)!
brownbr
April 2021
Outstanding! Nice subtle slime streaks on the water tank.
TomMich
April 2021
Agreed the interior pics look real.
kebmo
April 2021
this guy is unbelievable…
he just pushes the envelope over and over again…
KKarns
April 2021
Splendid Robert!..The pale siding treatment is quite unique and executed superbly. Love the last shot depicting the look of a dry dusty dirty floor…gives it that 'barn" feel.
CraigH
April 2021
Robert, Would like to see a How to on how you weather you wood.
Robert.G
May 2021
So, here we are again. What you are about to see is my version of the workshop. Or need I say, former workshop. It looks to me that it’s been a long time since any real work was done here.
Except for Mother nature who did her very best to take over.
They tried to repair the roof after the tree fell on these two buildings, remember the cookhouse, but the best they could come up with was some kind of tarpaulin over the workbench area. But that didn’t last very long neither. No further efforts were made…
In fact, all this was just an excuse for me to let you guys see the detailing which was otherwise hidden in darkness by the roof.
Like I said in the introduction of this build, the BSC kit are in fact several kits in one box. Some serious building awaits one who opens it.
I found it easier the see this large building complex as separate builds which will come together in the final assembly . And that will be soon…
So, enjoy this for now..
That’s all Folks..
brownbr
May 2021
A fine job on the wreckage. That’s hard to do in a believable way. I really like the tarp.
admin
May 2021
Unreal Robert. Some of your best work.
that last shot…
Jerry
May 2021
There really isn’t any words to describe your work! Absolutely beautiful.
Jerry
KKarns
May 2021
Great stuff Robert…I think run down and abandon scenes are less often modeled as we all tend to gravitate toward workable scenarios. I really like this idea, particularly when there are multiple structures as you pointed out. Thanks for the motivation…hmmm…and for the fresh perspective and stellar modeling.
Mountaingoat
May 2021
Speechless. It can’t possibly be a model! …Rick
EmeryJ
May 2021
Simply incredible again. I did not think you could out do the sawmill, but I think you have done it.
ALCOALCO
May 2021
Cannot tell the difference with reality…which is which?
TomMich
May 2021
Incredible! Really captures the abandon feel.
sdrees
May 2021
WOW Robert, I can’t get any other words out! Just WOW!!!
Jim M
May 2021
Crazy good.
skywatcher
May 2021
Simply outstanding
Karl.A
May 2021
Beautiful modeling Robert,
colors, textures, composition, everything so incredibly well done.
The setting and photography also blend seamlessly,
great work in every aspect.
SteveCuster
May 2021
Amazing Robert!
KCSTrains
May 2021
Robert, I’ve run out of adjectives to describe your brilliant work. You are the man!!! Phil
Keep it Rusty
May 2021
Robert, I’ve been following your work for some time. Gotta say, you have made me want to up my game in a BIG way. Truly amazing work. Your O-Scale Sawmill really is to die for. It made me drop $1000 on the kit, anyway
Craig
Robert.G
May 2021
Thanks Craig, I am glad to hear that I can ‘provide’ some inspiration and motivation… Brett will like that…
kebmo
May 2021
wow. new words desperately needed…
admin
May 2021
Geez these are fun to look at!
Robert.G
May 2021
So, let’s twist again…I finished my version of the Blue Sky Company. And I am sad because it’s over…
As you can see, a lot has been changed to the actual manual instructions. It only brought me more work than this build is already, but now it is my own…
I also made this huge old oak tree ( the setting is in springtime, my favorite season ), to make a statement that nature has taken over the repair shed, the cookhouse and the yard were the work was also done.
It’s from that tree that during a storm ,the branch broke of and destroyed the cookhouse. I believe there were some casualties when that happened. But you know , these stories get blown up every time there told, so I wouldn’t put my hand in the fire for that fact…
Anyways, this was another major build/kit which gave me so much fun to do. I can only recommend it to those who didn’t build it already…
And now ladies and gents, enjoy…
Thanks guys for staying with my for this build…once more…
Robert
EmeryJ
May 2021
Truly inspirational Robert. I could stare at this all day long and still find new things.
Thank you for sharing your work.
Keep it Rusty
May 2021
That tree really does make a statement, Robert! How many hours in that one tree? 70?
LOVE the cookhouse and overgrowth. My favorite corner.
What a wonderful build – and continuing to set that bar somewhere outside our stratosphere…
brownbr
May 2021
Yes I enjoy!!!
Now, I notice that behind the green workbench there is a metal rod that should have the eye drilled out and should probably have a dab of rust on it. For this reason you should toss this dio out and start over…it’s just not up to your standards. I’d be happy to send you a postage paid box to take this out of your sight.
kebmo
May 2021
holy shit.
apologies, i couldn’t help it.
Karl.A
May 2021
Fantastic build Robert, incredibly beautiful work, everything is beyond ‘just right’.
KKarns
May 2021
Cursory look is all my senses would allow for now! Amazing work here. I will take a close look pic by pic over the next few days and comment again…top flight modeling.
Jim M
May 2021
That belongs in a museum, truly art. Wow
sdrees
May 2021
What can I say but just Fantastic. I have this kit to build and I will keep this blog close by during my project.
At first, it looked like you took the photo’s outside in your back yard with the natural vegetation. But by god, you made all your own trees. WOW!!!
mikemettelka
May 2021
The emotions that I go through when looking at everyone’s stuff on here is indescribable… but knowing that your done with this one is a little saddening because that’s one less for you to do and look forward too
ALCOALCO
May 2021
The structures are top notch and wonderfully complemented by the details and scenery. Together the result is awesome! Thanks for the detail pix. Will keep them handy as this kit is next in my queue. Marvelous!
Pappy
May 2021
Robert, Fantastic work and detail!!
I have this kit I bought at a train show for about $75.
Looking forward to follow you on this thread when I decide to build.
Keep up your great work!!
TomMich
May 2021
Outstanding interpretation of this complex. Love the inside pics of the warehouse. Even includes the ceiling!
Pappy
May 2021
Robert, great job.
Would you share with us how you created that Tree. It looks like a real weathered tree.
Have never seen one so realistic.
Robert.G
May 2021
I explained it on this thread
Soon a more detailed tutorial on the Douglas firs in the 2021 On30 Annual, an article on the Sawmill as well.
Pappy
May 2021
My apologizes Robert, I didn’t scroll up to read.
Thanks for the link
KCSTrains
May 2021
Robert, you’re messing with my sense of reality!! Your builds are so realistic I have to remind myself it’s a model. I echo all the compliments above. It does belong in a museum. Great work Robert. I can’t wait to see your next build. Phil
Dave_S
May 2021
Robert,
Spoke with the folks at White River Publications about the 2021 On30 Annual just yesterday to check on when the magazine would ship. They confirmed it had gone to the printer so hopefully we should have the much anticipated On30 2021 Annual from White River Publications in hand sometime in June. Definitely looking forward to your articles on the SierraWest Sawmill and Pine Trees.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
skywatcher
May 2021
Your level is what others are measured by
Robert.G
May 2021
Thanks guys, and to bring you back to earth…
brownbr
May 2021
So impressive.
Keep it Rusty
May 2021
Didn’t know Euro’s were made so big. Need a truck for that thing…
Pappy
May 2021
Thanks Robert, Just ordered the White River Annual 2021 On30. Looking forward to review
admin
May 2021
You know, just when you think reality is in check… bammmm. Robert has to turn things upside down with a new pic. You continue to amaze us!
TomMich
May 2021
The foreground and background blend together seamlessly that one would say it’s real.
Joel
June 2021
Just stunning, really breath taking Robert. I just love your colouring and texture. I have never seen more realistic old barn wood. Just amazing. Can’t wait to see what you model next.
Pappy
June 2021
I keep looking at the pics and looks too real to be a model. Looks like a photo somewhere.
Outstanding work Robert!! Please keep up your great work!!
Mike Engler
June 2021
I haven’t been posting in months and started looking at this forum to see what you guys have been up to and this thread is stunning. Robert this is some other-worldly modeling. Bravo!
I was thinking about what kit I was going to attempt next and this makes that decision easier- not going to be this one! At least if I do I won’t be sharing any photos on this Forum. Again, this is beyond any complimentary words I know,
Karl.A
June 2021 edited June 2021
I feel the same way you do Mike, Roberts work definitely is always a masterpiece, unequalled in his style, results and presentation.
Then I remind myself that his work is his work, incredible as it is, it’s something to take ideas and inspiration from.
I personally take a little idea here a little nuance there, we can all be humbled by a master modeler such as Robert and we can also learn and evolve from each other.
That’s the beauty of our hobby, it’s not a competition between ourselves, it’s a learning experience from each other.
Robert.G
June 2021
You are so right Karl, and I said it before, this is in no way a competition game. I also take ideas from others that I mix in the Roberts sauce and hup, something new comes out of it.
It is because what I have seen here on the forum from the beginning of my modeling career a few years back, that brought me to where I am now. I never heard of SW or board on board modeling and all that stuff before. So it is with the help of all these posts that I got here now… And in the On30 annual..
geoawelch
August 2021
Exceptional work, Robert. The individual boards on your buildings are models unto themselves. And the attention to detail to effectively model the “believable clutter” as Bob Brown of the Gazette calls it is second to none.
You have taken the seeds that Brett gives with each new kit and planted them well and have they ever flourished.
Cheers,
George
Pappy
August 2021
Again Robert, your work is mind blowing. Trees are so real looking and the board on board for structures in my opinion is the only way to go for more realistic appearance. Keep up your great work!!
kebmo
August 2021
this kit is headed my way, and this thread is gonna be my go to…
EmeryJ
August 2021
Nice Kevin! That should keep you out of trouble for awhile. That kit is huge.
Pappy
August 2021 edited August 2021
I have this kit on my shelf.
Will be following you Robert when I decide to start this build.
I just started a kit from a 3rd party that uses all clap board wall construction and plastic windows. Not a fan on clap boards and plastic windows. No Board on board on their kits.
Also, not very happy with their kits with much flash on there metal and resin parts.
But, after working on many Bretts kits, it allowed me to add my knowledge to theses 3rd party kits to get by thanks to all the folks here.
I so miss Bretts kits!!
Again Robert, keep up your great work!!
Robert.G
August 2021
Thank you very much my dear friends. But as I said before, it all starts with one hell of a kit !!! Oh, and like I also said before , if anyone wants high resolution photos of this, or any other build from me, just ring the bell and I will send them to you..