This thread was started in January, 2025
KKarns
January 2025 in HO Scale Builds
Following my plan to build all the HO scale SierraWest Scale Models kits in the order they were released, reveals the next project…the Wood Cutters Shack. This Limited Edition kit #8087 was released December, 1999 and described by Brett as a “little gem of a kit” (taken from S.W. NEW! Issue Number Nine, more on that later). Now, despite being over 25 years old, continues to ooze that backwoods charm SWSM is famous for. The pilot model footprint of only 8"x4" was packed with wonderful details and fit right in with Brett’s overall plan for the Deer Creek Land and Timber Co. “Millsite” (more on that later).
After mulling this project over I decided to make this diorama a tie cutters shack rather than that of a wood cutter. Reference photos were studied and I was intrigued by the workflow of a railroad tie production concept. Further discussions with Brett and our own Nick O. cemented the concept and created significant enthusiasm for the project. There will be some very interesting features that will put a significant twist on the original concept, further illustrating the versatility SWSM kits can provide the modeler. Keeping with tradition, this will not be a quick build despite the original 8"x4" footprint! There will be a significant change in topography, a noticeable increase in the diorama base size, several highly detailed mini-scenes, and the inclusion of another river…notice how I justify being a slow modeler by embellishing my reasoning with all this fluff!
More later…Ken
Comments
vietnamseabee
January 2025
I’m anxious to follow this project…I don’t think there have been many/any forum builds of this little rascal
terry
ALCOALCO
January 2025 edited January 2025
Sounds like…maybe…the Shack will be sharing the limelight with some of the new 3DP vehicles and equipment (“highly detailed mini-scenes”)?
KKarns
January 2025
Hey Terry, I haven’t seen many either.
Al, Ahh…you are very wise my friend!
ALCOALCO
January 2025
I also have been thinking about a multi-SWSM dio. The pieces could include Donkey Repair (done), Backwoods Work Train (in progress), Logging Arch, Portable Crane/Hoist, Blacksmith Shop, Lynn Tractor, Wade Saw, Best Dozer, and Stubby Tow Truck. I also have a derelict Shay and a rotary snowplow to throw in the mix. I’ll be interested in how you are building your “story” around the pieces/mini-scenes! Good luck…although I know you won’t need it!
Dave_S
January 2025 edited January 2025
Ken,
A tie cutters shack should be an interesting variation of the wood cutters shack.
Looking forward to any links you come across for info or photos. I always learn something from following your builds here on the SWSM forum.
Here is a link to a RR tie cutting facility I came across:
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
TravisS
January 2025
Looking forward to this one as always Ken. It really is a neat little kit!
KKarns
January 2025
Sounds like a great project Al! Love to see all those SWSM 3D detail parts/kits in one diorama.
I thought it a nice twist on things Dave and appreciate your vote of confidence here. I saw a similar photo of the odd circular bins on the rail cars for creosote treatment. Messy business fooling around with creosote. Thanks for the link, very interesting shot.
Nice hearing from you Travis and glad to see you’ll be following along.
Dave_S
January 2025
Ken,
One of the things I found most interesting was the way the ties were stacked on the flat cars for transport. They are held in place by banding with no stakes in pockets as a back up to hold them in place. Cutting the banding to unload that kind of load would have been a suicide mission.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
MuddyCreekRR
January 2025
I like the concept…will be watching…
Jerry
January 2025
Looks like we are in for a real treat!!! From Wood cutter to Tie cutter can’t wait for the first piece to be cut!!!
Jerry
Robert.G
January 2025
What a great idea !! I will be in the cue with followers… 
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025
Hey Dave, The transporting of the railroad ties at the tie yards in large round “bundles” on small rail cars was to facilitate the transfer to the cylindrical creosote pressure treatment vessels. Here are a couple of pictures. First one is the rail cars with the untreated ties ready to be transferred to the pressure treatment vessels. Second are the treatment vessels.
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025
Glad to hear from you Art.
Hi Jerry, working on the walls of the main structure. Will have the first test wall done today. I always like to complete one entire wall to make sure I like the level of weathering for what I’m planning.
Appreciate the positive vibes on the project Robert! It is a very interesting workflow once one researches the topic a bit. I’m not modeling the treatment plant but may bend Brett’s ear as this may make a nifty kit down the road. Between the cool pressure treatment vessels and the round bundles on the rail cars…what not to love modeling here!
TravisS
January 2025
Someone call OSHA!
Dave, I found this link with some nice photos:
Dave_S
January 2025
Ken,
Thanks for the additional photos and info, They both show a bit more detail and one can see that the men working in those facilities got to go home for dinner after a day of work.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025
The following is my historical account of the Woodcutters Shack:
The Woodcutters Shack, kit number 8087, was released December, 1999. This kit followed the Logging and Tractor Repair Shed, featured in my previous build, and set the stage for the next kit in the Deer Creek Land and Timber Co. series, the Machine Shop.
This kit was quite popular and sold out soon after as all SWSM kits are destined to do. The popularity, in part, was due to its small size which filled the need for just that right spot on the layout. The pilot diorama came in at 8"x4" and packed with wonderful details that SierraWest Scale Models is famous for. The kit was featured in the Nov/Dec 1999 issue of Narrow Gauge And Short Line Gazette (photo 1). This was followed by a full color half page ad in the Jan/Feb 2000 issue of the same magazine (photo 2).
(photo 1) Ad in the Nov/Dec 1999 issue of Narrow Gauge and Short Line Gazette
(photo 2) Follow-up ad in the Jan/Feb 2000 issue. Note the general nature of this ad for both the Wood Cutters Shack and the Backwoods Logging Cars.
I have been collecting all the available issues of “S.W. New!” which was an occasional publication from SWSMs featuring product and modeling news from SierraWest Scale Models. Special thanks to Nick Ogden for his kind additions to my collection, particularly issue Nine which featured the Wood Cutters Shack! (photo 3). This issue was a Special Millsite Issue in which Brett details his plans for the entire Deer Creek Land and Timber Co. Millsite layout. This plan was a detailed map of the layout of all the planned structures (including the Woodcutters Shack) and track for the Millsite complex.
(photo 3) S.W. New! Issue Number Nine featuring the Woodcutters Shack.
I did not search other publications from this time period for other ads as my stock of those magazines is quite limited. I do however have every issue of the NG&SG. The following two pictures are a couple I came across in other issues of NG&SG:
Side column add in the July/Aug 2000 issue of the Gazette for various SWSM kits including the Woodcutters Shack.
Ad in the May/June 2000 issue of the Gazette. This was from a company called Valley Model Trains that carried many of Brett’s kits back in the day. In this same issue was a full page color ad for The Machine Shop which I will be building following the Wood Cutters Shack build featured here.
Back to the build…
TravisS
January 2025
Nice Ken! With Brett’s permission of course, would you be able to upload a photo of the Mill Site map from the newsletter? Was only 11 years old when this was sent out originally so I unfortunately missed it but would be very cool to see.
KKarns
January 2025
No problem Travis, happy to. Will wait for Brett to weigh in here and will post it.
kebmo
January 2025
ken, several years ago mike chambers built a tie hackers shack on rr-lines. you may still be able to find it, but you better look quick because that forum is going away in a few weeks.
admin
January 2025
Well this will be great fun to watch Ken bring this small diorama to life with his masterful storytelling and talent. Wonderful build introduction too! Always a trip down memory lane.
Great fun seeing those old ads and the green newsletter! I remember all the hours spent prepping those at the kitchen table. My young kiddos (at the time) used to love to “help”, hah!
TravisS said:
Nice Ken! With Brett’s permission of course, would you be able to upload a photo of the Mill Site map from the newsletter? Was only 11 years old when this was sent out originally so I unfortunately missed it but would be very cool to see.
Post away, no problem from me.
KKarns
January 2025
Hey Kevin, I seldom if ever visit that site so won’t miss it but had not heard it was going belly up.
Thanks much Brett for the kind words and your continued encouragement! I’m sure it’s nice to see all that hard work on the publication is still a valued commodity. Really enjoy the history of your business and all the cool “memorabilia” associated with it.
KKarns
January 2025
Here is the Millsite Map from S.W. New! Number Nine:
TravisS
January 2025 edited January 2025
Thanks Ken and Brett! Really cool.
Ken you gotta quit putting out your cigarettes on priceless memorabilia.
minion
January 2025
Sorry about the four holes .
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025 173.88.64.249
In researching the tie cutters place of residence, I decided on a well worn but usable structure. I like to build one complete wall to get a feel for the project and see how everything shakes out. The east wall was tackled first and I was happy with “the look” and proceeded to also complete the west wall.
East wall of the tie cutters living quarters.
I enjoy making more work for myself of course. I decided to use scale 1x6 strip wood rather than the customary 2x6 due to the amount of exposed edges of the wood. The 1x6 is more in scale from a side on view. I had to be very careful in the graining process as 1x6 does not hold up well to aggressive weathering with a wire brush. Scale 2x4s were placed strategically when I did the framing anywhere they would show. The remainder was done with 4x4s for strength. Places where the siding is missing was backed with scale interior siding. Note the open space in the bottom left of the picture. This area is below the actual floor level and there are joist there, you just can’t see them in the picture. Very shallow “crawl space” if you will. The reason to show this is I plan to have the structure on a gentle hillside with part of the sill on stone supports, thus putting this area in view. Also note the interior boards that show through are darker representing un-weathered wood versus the exposed siding. In addition, the vertical corner trim is not a 4x4 but a piece of 1x6, again due to the exposed weathering I opted for actual scale trim…fiddly?..for sure, as it has to overhang just a smidge to line up with the other piece on the adjoining wall.
Stripwood was stained with AI then lighted to a weathered light gray with a coat of Ammo by mig Old Wood. As soon as the acrylic “Old Wood” was brushed on I ran it through my fingers to remove any excess. Once dry, wet brushed with white craft paint for highlights. Each individual board was cut, detailed, and butted up against the vertical trim. The darker upper portion of the wall had an additional light coat of AI to highlight it and give it a slightly less exposed appearance. Remnants of tar paper is tissue paper painted black. The darker upper area helps to break up the wall and along with the old tar paper just adds visual interest. Why is it there?..not sure, just thought it looked cool! Brett’s laser cut window was trimmed out in scale strip wood and on to the next wall…
For additional visual interest on this rather small building, I decided to add a stone chimney. This was seen in a number of reference photos.
West wall with stone chimney installed along side it’s congener.
A couple of issues made this a bit fiddly again. I wanted the siding to but against the chimney rather than siding the whole wall then just glueing the chimney to it. This will give a more realistic appearance. As mentioned previously, the slope of the ground will render part of the building resting on short stone pillars. As a result I need the chimney footing to extend below the bottom of the sill to appear it sitting on its foundation once planted in the diorama. This will create a minor issue when gluing the walls together, but not to worry. I also wanted the chimney set back towards the structure slightly at the roof line. This gives the illusion that the chimney was put on before the siding as it would have. The following picture shows this minor set back.
Note the minor set back. Very fiddly putting in those tiny pieces of siding along the chimney! The plaster chimney was primed with grey primer from a rattle can. Once dry, the stones were painted with various color shades, within a restricted color range, with chalk and alcohol and oils. On to the other walls…
This guy is going to get some lovin! Brett’s masterful 3D printed Farmall Regular. This will likely be included in one of my scenes. Note the Farmall label in the box.
Back to the bench!
TomMich
January 2025
amazing work on the walls. This will be a nice twist on this kit. Can’t wait to see what’s next.
TravisS
January 2025
Great start Ken. Can attest to 1x6s not liking to be grained. Shredded quite a few on the roof I just did! Chimney is outstanding.
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks much Tom!
Thanks Travis. Right, they don’t take much abuse before giving up! The chimney in the pictures looks a bit overbearing but it will melt right in with the roof and walls together.
Kevin L
January 2025
Very nice, love your work.
Robert.G
January 2025
“I enjoy making more work for myself of course”, I know the feeling and always end up doing the same.. 
"decided on a well worn but usable structure. " Well worn it is Ken, but oh so beautiful !!
Color and structure of the wood are super. Love it !!
I’m not sure if I like the chimney, I find it much to course and it looks like it’s gone fall to pieces and crumble any time. But hey, that’s the casting, and like you said, when everything comes together, it will go up in the rest of the build/scenery.
I do know right now already that this will be a very nice ‘Ken’ masterpiece… Will be watching you !!!
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025
Thanks so much Kevin, appreciate your taking the time to drop the note.
I hear ya Robert. The chimney is one of those details that the close up pictures give an oversize appearance for sure, particularly without the roof and other walls. In hand, it looks reasonably in scale (the stones average around 8-10 scale inches) and with added scenic work should serve to lesson the stark impact. May turn out to be the “elephant in the room” when its said and done…we’ll see! lol.
vietnamseabee
January 2025
Great walls, Ken…appears you’ve been reading the Dr Grunge thread ;-))
terry
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks Terry! Right, got into the walls a good bit on this project but should come together in the end. So far the look is what I envisioned, and with additional additions (yikes!) should prove a cool looking run down shack.
KKarns
January 2025
Completed the front wall. Wood treatment as per the other walls discussed previously.
Front wall. Bottom row without siding is where the header for the front porch deck will attach.
I like to have my doors open slightly even when not doing a detailed interior. The open door adds some dimension and life to the structure. As a small portion of the interior can be seen I installed a false floor as can be seen in this picture.
TomMich
January 2025
That’s really nice! The sill below the door even shows wear from many footsteps.
TravisS
January 2025
Some warm-toned wood on this cold-ass day. Window and door frames really caught my eye.
ALCOALCO
January 2025
Color variations from board to board really make the wall pop.
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks Tom, and very cool that you noticed that small detail!
Appreciate that Travis! Yeah, woke up this morning it was 2 degrees.
Thanks much Al, and I vary the tones a bit for just what you mentioned!
KKarns
January 2025
Finished the rear wall of the structure. Decided to have this door open out so I could add a few details for visual interest.
Latch is a bit out of scale but looks OK in hand without magnification.
As per the front door, I added a false floor as it will just show at the right angle. Inside door handle just visible.
Jerry
January 2025
Love the wood coloring and detail.
Jerry
Robert.G
January 2025
With an open fire burning inside, I can imagine this as a really cozy, even romantic little cabin. Great work Ken. I also like my doors open. Gives you a chance to either detail the room, or just make one curious about what’s inside.. And it all has your signature wear and grunge colors. !!! Love it..
admin
January 2025
Love the natural weathering patterns and worn appearance! So much character in such small walls.
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks so much Jerry.
I’m putting a stove pipe up the chimney so the shack will have a wood burner. Romantic…no…functional…sure 
Right Robert, I originally had the door closed and it just looked uninspiring so I made it cracked open with the floor.
Appreciate that Brett!
TomMich
January 2025
Again another great build. The door latch is interesting. Is it something you came up with? I also like the Coke sign and the metal in the window. I like to add a sign to windows like that.
KKarns
January 2025
Appreciate that Tom. The door latch is one of those tiny details that when viewed with magnification and without other supporting details looks a bit…not so good. But when viewed in hand you can just make out there is a latch mechanism and it looks cool. The patch and signs in windows serves to break things up and adds visual interest, so always a good play. Glued the walls together today and working on the roof and front porch.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2025
Looking like another great start on a great build. I’m personally not a fan of the horizontal boards, other than claps…but I like how yours look. I too set all my doors either open…or a bit cracked in most cases…
TravisS
January 2025
Walls are wonderful Ken. The slightly ajar doors really do add so much visual interest.
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks Art, I agree with the doors cracked open in most cases.
Appreciate that Travis and I model many details for enhanced visual interest rather than sticking strictly to what is prototypical.
kebmo
January 2025
this just keeps on getting better.
KKarns
January 2025
Glued the walls together and installed the main roof rafters and front porch floor. Next up is the front porch roof and foundation supports (brick and timber).
TravisS
January 2025
Really coming along Ken. Chimney looks even better in situ.
TomMich
January 2025
almost ready to move in! Great job!
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025
Appreciate that Travis. The chimney will have to be touched up once planted as handling has rubbed off some of the coloring on some high spots…to be expected.
Thanks Tom. Oh, and by the way…next on my list of builds is The Machine Shop at Deer Creek. I re-reviewed your wonderful rendition of this kit and will be discussing more about it later on. I also have all Anders pictures of his version as well.
KKarns
January 2025
Well kept at the bench and got the front porch roof stringers and supports installed. Done for the evening.
Jim M
January 2025
Holy crap, this is amazing. Very nice job.
KKarns
January 2025
Hey thanks much Jim. Nice hearing from you!
Kevin L
January 2025
Bloody nice job although I do not want to move in could be a little drafty.
Robert.G
January 2025
That last pic is the money shot !! SUPER color and weathering of that wood. LOVE it !!!
( also love your nail polish.. nice design…
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks much Kevin!, and certainly a run down shack with little repairs having been done.
Robert, nice hearing from you my friend! I initially was going to do a faded paint “peel” of sorts but evolved to just the very faded and little to no "peel! Appreciate the kind support as always.
Jerry
January 2025
Just a beautiful scratch build.
Jerry
KKarns
January 2025
Jerry, not a scratch build, this structure is the Woodcutters Shack Kit. I only added the roof over the porch, chimney, and back door and windows. Thanks much for the kind words here!
TravisS
January 2025
Ken you always say you’re a slow modeler but you’re really cooking on this one! Hope those tie hackers have some blankets and extra firewood!
minion
January 2025
Well, Ken, you have nailed it (pun intended) with the colour of your shack . Can I assume you are going to put individual shingles on the roof , any thing less will be a travesty. Don’t forget to double up the bottom row of shingles so that it doesn’t leak . It is a mistake many people make and stands out like a sore thumb. Will the roof of the verandah be made of corrugated iron ? It is a bit shallow for shingles.
Still looking forward to seeing what you come up with the rest of the diorama.
Nick.
TomMich
January 2025
The porch roof really adds a nice touch to this structure.
kebmo
January 2025 edited January 2025
i can hear the floorboards creaking as you walk in. that’s so good it’s sick.
Karl.A
January 2025
Great colouring on the old grey boards and beautiful deterioration of the wood, moving along quickly on this one indeed, it is flowing.
KKarns
January 2025
Right Travis, I have been a bit more productive since retiring in September! I still feel like I’m slow though!
Hey thanks Nick! Partially correct. I’m putting metal standing seam on the entire roof, so meeting you half way…sort of. There will be a small half length roof off the back that will be likely tar paper, or corrugated for contrast.
Thanks Tom. Yeah, I thought so and was quite common for the time period from reference photos.
KKarns
January 2025
Hey Kevin, thanks much!
Karl, nice hearing from you and appreciate the support as always.
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025
Got the standing seam metal roof on today. Light spots on chimney will need touched up once I stop handling it and rubbing off the color on the high spots!
KKarns
January 2025
Better close up…
MuddyCreekRR
January 2025
I totally dig that stone chimney…and the rest is ok too…lol
TravisS
January 2025
Beautiful.
Robert.G
January 2025
The money shots keep on coming… Beautiful executed.. No surprise here..
geoawelch
January 2025
Somehow missed the beginning of your build, Ken. Great start so far and everything is up to your usual superb standards.
Cheers,
George
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks much Art!
Too kind Travis…thanks!
Hey Robert, really appreciate the support and kind words.
Nice hearing from you George! Thanks so much.
TomMich
January 2025
Looks like an old backwoods cabin. Very nice!
KKarns
January 2025
If that’s the case…mission accomplished! Thanks Tom.
KKarns
January 2025 edited January 2025
Moving along with my my woodcutters shack build. I haven’t decided on the exact dimensions of the diorama base, and will not nail that down for awhile. However, I did need to know the amount of slope of the hillside I’m going to have the shack on as I’m placing brick pillars for the foundation support and logs for the porch deck supports. I cut just a small piece of foam base and created the slope. I then carved out all the little sections where the pillars and posts will go below ground level.
Structure sitting, not glued, to the foam base with the slope of the ground carved out. I will simply fill in around the brick pillars and log posts with dirt. I can glue this small piece of diorama base to the main base and proceed with the normal course of scenic work. Note severe injury to the builders right thumb
View from slightly different angle. The brick pillars were built from laying real HO scale bricks, one at a time! Log posts are small pine twigs with the bark removed.
admin
January 2025
Love the sloping terrain, adds a lot of interest. Beautiful work so far!
minion
January 2025
I suppose you hit your thumb when you were nailing the roof sheets on ?
KKarns
January 2025
Thanks much Brett! I think so as well, there will be several “altitude” changes on this diorama.
There ya go Nick! Injured on the job.
KKarns
January 2025
Better shot of the “foundation”…
KKarns
January 2025
TomMich
January 2025
A shame to have so much of those beautiful brick columns buried.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2025
Very nice…Is the chimney cast…or carved from foam?
KKarns
January 2025
There should be a fair amount of those brick supports still visible Tom. As I add dirt I’ll raise up the structure so the supports show well.
Thanks Art, that is a cast chimney.
geoawelch
January 2025
Year in, year out, the realistic detail you’re able to achieve in HO scale is mind boggling AND inspirational.
kebmo
January 2025
geoawelch said:
Year in, year out, the realistic detail you’re able to achieve in HO scale is mind boggling AND inspirational.
what he said…
KKarns
January 2025
Hey George, thanks so much my friend, appreciate ya!
I get ya, thanks Kevin!
Jerry
January 2025
That thumb might be a compensation claim!!!
Beautiful brick work!
Jerry
KKarns
January 2025
lol…right on Jerry! Building those pillars brick-by-brick was tedious but nothing looks like the real thing than the real thing. Also, thanks for remarking about the brick detail, nice to know the fiddly, tedious work does not go unnoticed!
KKarns
February 2025 edited February 2025
The main structure has been affixed to the small piece that is part of a larger diorama base. I covered it with the base layer of dirt and added a covered area in back for fire wood. Thinking of adding an outhouse out back. Haven’t modeled one before so may give it a go.
The reason for the small “chip” of diorama base is to try and keep the project going while I get the larger portion of the diorama figured out. Once that is accomplished I can plant this piece and move on with things.
Same view with the base dirt layer added.
Rear with covered area for fire wood.
Kevin L
February 2025
Very nice modeling.
TravisS
February 2025
Real nice Ken. And a good starting point for the full dio! My vote—do the outhouse that will be fun to see.
Karl.A
February 2025
Excellent work as always.
KKarns
February 2025
Thanks much Kevin.
Hey Travis, just started the outhouse. Should put it up tomorrow, maybe Monday.
KKarns
February 2025
Thanks Karl, nice hearing from you brother! What a fiddly little structure at a
scale 4’x4’…geesh.
KKarns
February 2025
The outhouse for the tie cutters shack is about done. Before I close it in with the last wall and then the door, thought I give a shot of the interior one “holer”!
TomMich
February 2025
I can smell it from here! Nice!
sdrees
February 2025
Hope you don’t get a splinter in your butt!
Robert.G
February 2025
Great weathering/peeling paint. Is that a poster of a ‘nudie’… ? Like the toilet paper also. It looks it got wet against the boards. Fine work Ken..
KKarns
February 2025 edited February 2025
:), Thanks Tom!
Hey Stephen, It’s the ole hole cut in a wood plank…sanded smooth of course.
Appreciate that Robert. Right, the structure is the main thing here, interior was a bit just for fun as little will show in the end. May be where I hide my one figure I place in all my dios…I actually re-worked the location of the toilet paper roll just in case I do that!..The poster is the upper half of one of Brett’s calendars, so maybe scantly clothed at best…or is it worst! lol.
minion
February 2025
You spoil the workers, normally it is only the boss that gets the toilet paper. The rest have to make do with bunches of nettles or cut up squares of newspaper, depending on how good a boss he is .
sdrees
February 2025
But Ken, how many years ago did the plank get sanded smooth?
Jerry
February 2025
As usual the detail of the work is excellent.
Jerry
KKarns
February 2025
Thanks for rescuing me Jerry from the peanut gallery, poking fun of a very essential and personal topic! I’m appalled at the insensitivity…hehe! I’ll have to post my re-working of the interior…
MuddyCreekRR
February 2025
Nice…I also enjoy detailing even places that will probably never be seen…
KKarns
February 2025
I’m all in on that concept as well Art, and thanks for the support!
KKarns
February 2025
Well here’s a quick picture of the change made in lieu of having an LP in there!
Mountaingoat
February 2025
Having toilet paper is a luxury. Many times it was the old Sears catalog if you were lucky or corn cobs if you ran out. How do I know? Yeah
kebmo
February 2025
i used to go canoing/camping in the quetico provincial park in canada. most of our daily routine was fishing and drinking beer (two of us packed in 72 cans in our framepacks. plenty of beer for four guys for 8 days.) one of the days, one of the maps that we had indicated that there wan an abandoned logging cabin between to lakes, so we pulled the canoes up and went to see it. the finish of that wood on that cabin looks exacty like your model. no lie. i wish i had taken pictures of it.
kebmo
February 2025
minion said:
You spoil the workers, normally it is only the boss that gets the toilet paper. The rest have to make do with bunches of nettles or cut up squares of newspaper, depending on how good a boss he is .
that’s why i’ve always pooped at home…
KKarns
February 2025
Please do tell Rick! Did you order anything out of that catalog before hand? hehe.
Thanks much for that note Kevin, very cool would love to have seen it. Kicking back after a day of fishing and polishing off your allotted two and a quarter beers sounds like a good time had by all!
TomMich
February 2025
I think I;d rather enjoy a beer in a less odoriferous place.
KKarns
February 2025
Yeah but the women back then kept an eye the men folk and their promiscuity with the spirts so the men snuck the liquor out there to take a nip. Matter of fact, antique bottle hunters target old outhouse pits for just that reason. Also, if you accidentally dropped something down there, you’re likely not going in after it!
TomMich
February 2025
I’d still rather go out behind the barn for a beer that the outhouse, unless the seating is more comfortable!
KKarns
February 2025
I’d have to agree!
KKarns
February 2025
Finished up the outhouse and featured are some pics of the wood detailing. I built the door but that will go on later
Paint is from SWSMs original MSP Series Paint Set “Pale Buckskin”. Board ends were detailed with a #11 blade and then hit with AI and pigments. Roof is corrugated “metal” and I went with the paper type. Not a big fan as the thickness is out of scale but for such a small roof I wasn’t concerned, hard to see that in natural setting.
Nothing really of note here, save for the out of focus near field.
Bringing up the rear is the rear. Note the 4x4 skids so the structure could be moved around as the hole in the ground filled up!
TravisS
February 2025
I’d have a beer or two in there! It’s quiet and there’s an easy way to hide the empties from prying eyes. Looks great as always Ken. You’ve really got your crap together.
KKarns
February 2025
lol…cracked me up Travis, thanks…I think!
Mountaingoat
February 2025
Travis is missing the fact of how many flies and wasps love outhouses. Guess if you’ve had enough beer y9u might not notice. hahaha
Mountaingoat
February 2025
BTW your modeling is beyond fabulous!
Jerry
February 2025
Your work is just so highly detailed!!
Jerry
KKarns
February 2025
Appreciate that Rick!
Thanks Jerry for the call out on the detailing. I kind of go down a rabbit hole with the detailing…when a dinky little outhouse takes me two days to finish…lol.
TomMich
February 2025
Impressive as always! Color really turned out nice.
KKarns
February 2025
Well thanks Tom. I wanted to change things up a bit and give it some color other than the very faded white/gray like the shack.
Robert.G
February 2025
Holy sh°t, this looks great..
KKarns
February 2025
Ha!..good one Robert. I can wipe my slate clean of this project and move on!..
minion
February 2025
KKarns said:
Ha!..good one Robert. I can wipe my slate clean of this project and move on!..
As long as that is all you are wiping .
sdrees
February 2025
At least your nice enough to provide toilet paper instead of the old telephone book
MuddyCreekRR
February 2025
It looks great…I think a racoon peering out would look cool…don’t know of any HO scale racoons…
Karl.A
February 2025
Really nicely done my friend. A great addition to the scene.
KKarns
February 2025
Ha, right Nick! I should have known I would be opening myself up building this one!
Creature comforts…only the best for my employees!
Thanks Art…I believe I have only had one animal in all the projects I have done, and that was a cat as part of one of Brett’s resin castings in BlueSky.
Hey thanks Karl, appreciate ya!
KKarns
February 2025 edited February 2025
Finished up SierraWest Scale Models 3D printed Farmall Regular HO Scale Tractor Kit. This specimen will be positioned behind the tie cutters shack and will add a great deal of visual interest to that scene.
The first set of images are without the wheels on to better highlight the details.
I primed the model with a brown from a rattle can. This was followed by two light mistings of hairspray for the chipping process. Once dry, about 10-15 minutes, a coat of Tamiya grey was airbrushed on the piece. I then used a small stiff detail brush and water to lightly chip the grey top coat. The exhaust and manifold were painted brown with the steering wheel black. The model was then weathered with oils and pigments to simulate wear and grease accumulation.
A light rust colored oil was applied to the chipped areas on the hood to represent light rust where the paint would have failed due to constant engine heat.
View from the other side.
Completed tractor with the wheels installed. Real dirt added for effect on the wheels. Love the cleat tread.
KKarns
February 2025
Close up of the level of detail in SWSMs 3D print kit.
Jim M
February 2025
Wow, is that ever cool and tiny. I don’t know how you do it even though you explained it in detail. Great job.
TomMich
February 2025
Very nice! The engine and exhaust are spot on for weathering. The rust effects are very realistic.
TravisS
February 2025
Brett’s tractors are amazing. So easy to put together and detail. Fantastic Ken!
sdrees
February 2025
The weathering is very realistic!
geoawelch
February 2025
So not only are you Dr. Grunge, but also the tractor whisperer.
KKarns
February 2025
Hey thanks much Jim! The “in hand” shot really shows the scale.
Thanks much Tom! Wanted a weathered but well used look.
Right on Travis…they are incredible works of art that’s for sure.
Thanks Stephen!
Ha…shhh!..appreciate ya George and thanks!
Quote
Jerry
February 2025 108.50.186.11
The parts may be the best there is. But what you do to them is just amazing!!
Jerry
KKarns
February 2025 173.88.64.249
Appreciate that Jerry!
MuddyCreekRR
February 2025
As I’ve been heard to say…“Looks realer…than real…:
KKarns
February 2025
So…this project has evolved over time, which is a good thing. I decided to make this diorama large enough to try some refined scenic techniques. This little structure, the tie cutter’s shack, has a footprint of only roughly 3"x2”. I made the diorama base almost 15" square. I plan for some interesting scenic features along with some equally interesting workflow.
Overhead view of the roughed in terrain features. The area on both side of the structure and behind is hilly with rocks outcrops and a small spring fed stream. The terrain then levels off out in front, which is where there will be the additional worksite with a low bridge crossing the low creek in the foreground. The hills will be wooded with ample opportunities for visually interesting scenes.
Here is a view from the west. The bottom right will have the additional work space.
View from the east.
I continue to work on details immediately surrounding the structure while I have easy access before scenic details are placed.
More later…Ken
TravisS
February 2025
Wow. Can’t wait for you to start filling this in.
Robert.G
February 2025
The levels in the terrain add so much interest in your diorama. Looks great already !!!
KKarns
February 2025
Hey Travis, thanks buddy, am waiting on a few supplies to arrive and then I’ll get started.
Thanks Robert. Yup, that was the idea behind this build was to create the terrain in a way that challenges many different elements of scenic work. I always like to try new techniques and refine old ones in all my projects.
minion
February 2025
KKarns said:
Hey Travis, thanks buddy, am waiting on a few supplies to arrive and then I’ll get started.
Thanks Robert. Yup, that was the idea behind this build was to create the terrain in a way that challenges many different elements of scenic work. I always like to try new techniques and refine old ones in all my projects.
Looking forward to seeing your next experiment of using cream cheese and egg white for your terrain , it is all the rage in Europe , some people add mustard for extra realism .
Jerry
February 2025
minion said:
» show previous quotes
Looking forward to seeing your next experiment of using cream cheese and egg white for your terrain , it is all the rage in Europe , some people add mustard for extra realism .
Can’t add much more to Nick’s comment!!!
I’ll have a cold beer and wait for the fun to begin!! Beautiful start !
Jerry
KKarns
February 2025 edited February 2025
Thanks Jerry, I aint gettin any work done sittin around sipping a cold one with ya!
Hey Nick, not really into edible scenery but you brits are welcome to have at it!
minion
February 2025
That’s the problem with you Yanks , you are so repressed ! Anyway, I am not sure I would want to eat it .
Karl.A
February 2025
Tractor looks amazing, so well done.
This is going to be another wonderful dio, lots of space for opportunities.
kebmo
February 2025
i’m with jerry. really looking foward to seeing this.
KKarns
February 2025
Thanks much Karl! Right, I may be going down the scenic rabbit hole with that much acreage to work…
Hopefully I’ll get some work done when my scenic materials that I ordered arrive Kevin. I’m slow but this time not my fault! Trying some pine trees for the first time on this project. All my other builds have featured deciduous tress…and not very good ones at that!
glandesjr
February 2025
Hi Ken:
This is the first time I’ve seen this (I must be asleep) and I love it. The aging of the wood is super especially with the missing pieces showing the framing. And the support “logs” for the deck looks really great. The dio you are building also looks awesome. I’m excited to see the finished product.
KKarns
February 2025
Appreciate ya George! Thanks so much. I’m really excited about the scenic work ahead. Just placed another order for some targeted paints for the project and the hardscape scenic work is mostly done. Can’t wait to get rid of all the white!
tomtom
February 2025
Hello Mr. Karns. This will be another world class build – you set the bar very high. I wish to ask, especially at this stage, what is your substrate for the terrain? Sculptamold, grout, plaster? I assume it is laid on top of foam. Did you contour the foam beforehand? Knife or hotwire? It is no wonder that your landscapes are so compelling when I can see such detail in this early layer. Thanks.
KKarns
February 2025
First off, thanks so much tomtom! Appreciate it.
I first set the rough terrain elevations with foam. In the case of my current project I wanted the shack to sit on the side of a hill to allow for the brick pillar supports and deck supports to show, rather than just plunk it down on a flat surface. I invisioned behind the cabin to have some rocky outcrops with a mountain stream coming down and then leveling off below the cabin and the water slowing down as it reaches then end of the diorama. I have since moved the terminal end of the creek a bit. This lower area will be the work flow area of the backwoods tie cutting/logging scene.
I started with the foam and rough contoured it with a rasp and my #11 blade (photo 1) The creek was rough cut into the foam. I then sculpted in the terrain base, overhanging creek banks, rock and rock ledges with FastMache by Activa (photo 2&3) I find this product a bit easier to sculpt than Sculptamold. It seems to have a finer binding material. I also work the FastMache over the entire surface, even the flat areas as it creates natural undulations in the ground work (photo 4).
(photo 1) Here is what I use to rough scape the foam. It leaves a rough surface that takes the mache really well. Sample piece to illustrate the results.
(photo 2) Here is use the FastMache to sculpt the rocks and stair step rock strata in the steeper stream area.
(photo 3) This is where the stream levels off and slow down and widens a bit. I sculpted in a sand bar.
(photo 4) This is an example of the relatively flat ground with the FastMache spread out thin to create uneven surface and then will be covered with dirt, grass etc…
Hope that helps, and keep in touch…Ken
Karl.A
February 2025
Great steps and info for all of us Ken, thanks for taking the time and sharing your steps and process/materials with us all.
ALCOALCO
February 2025
Dr Grunge is now a Water Wizard!
KKarns
February 2025
Hey thanks Karl…we’ll see if it pans out!
Ha, hardly a wizard, more like a jester! I’ll be using acrylics rather than epoxy on this go around.
Jerry
February 2025
Karl great tutorial. Thanks for the info.
Jerry
minion
February 2025
Jerry said:
Karl great tutorial. Thanks for the info.
Jerry
Karl or Ken ? I know they are easily confused .
Jerry
February 2025 108.50.186.11
minion said:
» show previous quotes
Karl or Ken ? I know they are easily confused .
Yes at my age it’s easy to get confused I meant Ken!!
Thanks for the heads up what’s your name again oh Sir Nick I got it!!!
Jerry
KKarns
March 2025 edited March 2025
The Wood Cutter’s Shack diorama project is coming along, albeit slowly. Several issues have been addressed that didn’t really slow the project, just extended the amount of work to bring it along. Firstly, the diorama base has been extended since my last post to over 23" wide. This was done to allow for a length of track, which I have included in all my other projects. It just didn’t seem right to have a SWSM diorama not tied in some way to a narrow gauge railroad. Secondly, as this diorama is an exercise in extensive scenic and landscape work by decision, I have been building a number of support models…mainly tress. And lastly, I am waiting for the main scene to be developed…such as the layout, structure(s), work flow, etc. That does not mean I haven’t actually done any detail modeling, quite the contrary. I have done the initial detailing around the shack (see below) and covered the diorama base with the first layer of dirt. There will be final details added to the shack, but basically it’s done. Following is an illustrated update:
Front of the shack. Will do a walk around of sorts…
I added a small covered open shed to balance out the front porch of the shack.
Section of narrow gauge track running through a shallow cut. Lots of scenic work opportunities here.
Small creek coming off the rocky hillside behind the shack. A low bridge will span the creek for access to the lower work area.
ALCOALCO
March 2025
I see a Prize Winner in the making! Ultra-fine modeling!
TomMich
March 2025
Very nice! looking forward to seeing what’s next.
TravisS
March 2025
Looking great Ken! Wasn’t this kit intended for like. 6” x 8” size? Taking it to the next level is an understatement.
Robert.G
March 2025
The open shed, with its great looking shingles ‘roof’ was a super idea. Like you said , it balances the whole edifice. Specially because the other side goes ’ downwards ’ The base for great scenery is there !! Like in a previous build of yours, the ‘river’ banks look very nice as well. To echo ALCO, ultra fine modeling
KKarns
March 2025
Really appreciate that AL! Thanks.
Hey Tom, thanks much. I’m getting the initial scenic work done and will start around the shack to get a feel for how the diorama will evolve.
Thanks Travis, not even that big!..original diorama base called for 8"x4". I’m up to about 23"x15"! What have I done?? lol.
Appreciate that Robert. That’s exactly right. The structure needed some “weight” to the back and with the open shed, outhouse, and tractor should do the trick. I will also massage the look with tree placement as well.
Joel
March 2025
Fanally had a chance to sit down and go through this amazing build. It is quite amazing, the wood treatment and build quality are among your best and I think that’s saying something. Such a small model and yet so much character oozing from every board.
dick52
March 2025
Fantastic, love that color
Jerry
March 2025
A Masterpiece!!
Jerry
KKarns
March 2025
Appreciate that Joel! Nice hearing from you my friend!
Hey thanks Dick!
Thanks much Jerry! Think I opened a can of worms with the amount of scenic work I have to cover…lol
BobsBrainCell
March 2025
This is awesome and instructional! Thanks for describing your methods/products.
b
KKarns
March 2025
Hey BBC…appreciate that! Nothing special just enthusiasm, hard work, and lots of mistakes! Lol
minion
March 2025
By the way , Ken. Happy Birthday .
Diorama coming along nicely , I am looking forward to seeing your trees and the tutorial that you will be required to do on how you made them .
KKarns
March 2025
Thanks Nick, I prefer to forget about birthdays and have for some time! Have a bunch of trees to make and have most about half done, so far so good.
admin
March 2025
Wow, what amazing progress on this diorama! The shack came out superb, love the rear “addition” and the steps buried in the dirt.
Karl.A
March 2025
Outstanding work as always on the shed Ken.
The diorama layout reminds me of Mike Chambers great version of his shed build.
I look forward to seeing the next stages evolve.
kebmo
March 2025
boy oh boy…
KKarns
March 2025
Appreciate that Brett.
Thanks much Karl. Right, I have been staring at the diorama for a few days now guess it’s time to start some scenic work. Always takes me a long time to get started, but once in the groove, the scenic work moves along.
Nice hearing from you Kevin.
ALCOALCO
March 2025
Comparing KKarns with Mike Chambers…sounds about right!
Jim M
March 2025
No fair going out and taking a picture of a real shack and photoshopping it onto your diorama. This is amazing. I can’t wait to see what you do with the scenery. Maybe it will inspire me to get off my a$$ and finish my truck repair.
KKarns
March 2025
Thanks much Jim and I was going to say something about your Truck Repair project …butt…you did, so I won’t! lol.
KKarns
March 2025
Thanks so much Al. I never had the privilege to have met Mike Chambers but have seen some of his work.
kebmo
March 2025
KKarns said:
Thanks so much Al. I never had the privilege to have met Mike Chambers but have seen some of his work.
several years ago mike chambers scratchbuilt a tie hacker’s shackand i thought that might have been your inspiration for this
KKarns
March 2025
Hey Kevin. Motivation for my project here came from a couple of photos I found when researching reference material for the Wood Cutter’s Shack. The history of the tie hackers is a very interesting industry. I thought a backwoods railroad tie operation would be a nifty spin on the Wood Cutter’s Shack theme. Things morphed into the project I now have in my mind and slowly putting down in the diorama.
Dave_S
March 2025 edited March 2025
KEN,
Ditto to all the previous comments.
Great vision and execution for this build and diorama. I always get inspired by your builds.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
KKarns
March 2025
Hey Dave, nice hearing from you and thanks so much!
KKarns
April 2025
I felt the need to provide some remnants of an update on the progress on my current project here. The scenic work around the upper half of the diorama is coming along. I have built over 30 pine trees to create a pine forest hillside of sorts that will overlook the main tie processing area. This area will be where the action is and have several interesting scenes and workflow. A low vehicle bridge is planned and I am completing the final details on the track work. I decided to have a narrow gauge track running through the far end of the diorama. I originally was not going to have any rail service however, it just didn’t seem right to have a SWSM kit without it!
Here is a small sampling of the scenic work up near the shack. This work is not totally done yet but getting close. Many of the trees are not permanently glued in so I can change things around before the final version is set.
TravisS
April 2025
Wow Ken. Fantastic. So that’s where you’ve been—slaving over those trees…
ALCOALCO
April 2025
Quite a turnaround—from no trees (back in the day) to Tree Master. Really, really like the vibe you’ve got going on here. And the outdoor backdrop is fantastic!
Robert.G
April 2025
The fallen trees make it look very natural. Wonderful scene Ken !!!
Jeroen
April 2025
Oh wow… you know how much I like trees Ken. Ive done them on 3 of the 4 dioramas I made. Love this! Spectacular work. Perhaps you can share a bit more about creating the trees!
admin
April 2025
Wonderful, the backwoods “feel” is perfect.
KKarns
April 2025
Thanks Travis and they are time consuming thats for sure when doing that many.
Appreciate that Al. Right, I’m trying to give this diorama a different look to what my previous scenic work has conveyed and at the same time experiment with different and new techniques.
Nice you noticed that Robert and thanks.
Thanks so much Jeroen and nice hearing from you. When the diorama is done I’ll go over the scenic work including the trees.
Appreciate that Brett! That’s the look I’m after here for sure.
Jerry
April 2025
As usual a beautiful scene. The trees are perfect and that scene sure does give it that live in feeling.
Jerry
KKarns
April 2025
Thanks Jerry! I’m less than thrilled with the picture but this was just a quick update to dust off the thread and let you know I was still working on things! I have a nifty scene behind the shack with oil change and maintenance being performed on the SWSM Farmall Regular Tractor Kit. What a splendid little model, really makes the scene.
KKarns
April 2025 173.88.64.249
Robert.G
April 2025
I like the little rapids in the water. Very nice Ken !!
KKarns
April 2025
Oops, meant to delete this photo as I got a new MacBook Pro and was experimenting converting my photos from “jpeg” to “jpg” so I can upload to the forum. Thanks much Robert for the comment on the water effects.
TomMich
April 2025
Nice updates! Really like the ground debris. Looks like a forest floor.
KKarns
April 2025
Thanks Tom and spent a good bit of time working that very thing. This diorama was planned to work on scenic materials to get a pine forest floor appearance, work on rock formations, trees, moving water effects, etc.
Karl.A
April 2025
Looks fantastic Ken, what a natural looking scene coming to life. Very well done.
KKarns
April 2025
Hey thanks buddy! Nice hearing from you!
Jerry
April 2025
Ken great looking scenery. it looks just the real forest floor and stream would look like in real life or is this real life!!
Jerry
KKarns
April 2025
Appreciate ya Jerry! Biggest challenge is…there’s a whole lot of it. Over 30 trees and forest floor under all of them.
TomMich
April 2025
The forest floor effect is very good. What did you use?
TomMich
April 2025
Thanks Ken. That does help. It’s the “Sea Grass” that I like as forest floor debris. I haven’t heard of it before.
KKarns
April 2025
You bet Tom. Apparently all I had to mention was the sea grass and not the long winded response! sorry about that.
Joel
April 2025
Really coming alive with the trees and ground cover. Beautiful.
KKarns
April 2025
Thanks much Joel, nice hearing from you!
glandesjr
April 2025
Looks absolutely awesome, Ken. The water is really well done. It’s tough to get water to look “real” but this is a testament that it can be done. Take care.
KKarns
April 2025
Appreciate that George. Really nice hearing from you.
TomMich
April 2025
Your scenery process is always welcome. The layering effect, and use of multiple, natural materials makes everything look so real.
KKarns
April 2025
Thanks Tom.
Jeroen
April 2025
Stellar work Ken. And so inspiring. I admire your builds and they always make me want to become better - in a good way. I used that sea grass for some military diorama’s and its great stuff. Never thought of using it for SW scenery, but you have my attention. I can’t wait to see next steps!
KKarns
April 2025
Hey thanks my friend! Nice hearing from you Jeroen and the sea grass has just the right color and texture for pine litter and other general debris. Has to be cut really fine for HO scale of course. Appreciate your thoughts and camaraderie, means a great deal to be knocking elbows with you. Cheers…Ken
KKarns
July 2025 edited July 2025
All good things come to those who…build slow! With the announcement of the beautifully conceived Tie Mill in both HO/HOn3 and O scales, I decided to incorporate the Tie Mill kit into my current build project, the Wood Cutters Shack (coined by me as the tie cutter’s shack). This will be the last installment under this build thread, directing your further attention to my future build post of the Tie Mill. I will provide some detailed pictures of the finished tie cutter’s shack and associated scenes and begin the build of the Tie Mill on the same piece of real estate.
This is a perfect combination of structures and corresponding work flow to complete an entire small scale railroad tie cutting operation. Brett’s Tie Mill is just amazing and will be such a joy to work. I plan many exciting features to compliment The Tie Mill as I progress along with the project.
One issue I have to contend with is the need, in my mind, to expand the footprint of my current diorama base even further to allow for the “proper” scene construction of the Tie Mill. Illustrated below are a couple pictures of the general area planned for the Tie Mill. I called Brett and got the rough footprint for the Tie Mill structure and made a template to try different orientations for the Mill (see below).
View from the front edge of the current diorama base with The Tie Mill template I made in the first possible position. The diorama base will be extended towards the viewer.
Additional location for the Tie Mill with the same diorama base extension to allow for the “proper” scene construction. There will be a bridge over the creek as well.
More later…Ken
MuddyCreekRR
July 2025
I was thinking along the same lines…incorporating a few other kits in with the tie mill…would also love to see a shingle mill…following your lead here…I’m still hoping for the rest of the O scale Foundry…I’m working on a bashed main foundry building with Rodger M’s foundry for the time being…
KKarns
July 2025
Sounds like a plan Art. I’m really excited about the Tie Mill, it’s going to be an excellent center piece and a base of operations for my project as well as others. Look forward to what you come up with Art.
TravisS
July 2025
Decisions, decisions…excited to see how you incorporate the Tie Mill into this dio, Ken. Already looks great and look forward to scrutinizing your scenery for inspiration! Might I suggest the location that requires the least amount of fiddly track work haha.
ALCOALCO
July 2025
If I was to vote, I’d vote for position 2…to accommodate the “many exciting features” you’re planning.
TomMich
July 2025
Regardless of which orientation you choose, I have no doubt that it will be just great! I’m looking forward to your build. They always brings inspirational ideas.
Jerry
July 2025
WOW!! This should be an exciting addition to already beautiful diorama!!
Jerry
KKarns
July 2025
Thanks for checking in Travis and appreciate your thoughts! There is much work to be done on the scenery that’s for sure.
I’ll get a better feel once I have the kit in hand. Appreciate your thoughts on the matter Al and leaning that direction thus far.
Thanks much Tom, appreciate ya!
Hey Jerry. Thanks so much and we’ll see how things develop my friend, enjoy your comments as always!
Jeroen
August 2025 edited August 2025
Difficult. But i’d pick position 1, after long deliberation. 2 would leave your line of watching either on the short side of the Mill or the short side of the shack when you turn the diorama 90 degrees to get full view of the Mill, and you would loose view on that beautiful chimney. You would also lose the connection with the tracks in the whole. The only disadvantage of 1 I see is that the large mill in the front will dominate the smaller shack but with some attention to scenery I think you could tie them together. Last but not least: 2 would leave a very large open space to fill in front of the shack which will dwarf it. Another option would be to reposition the shack but That seems a bit to much… a very personal view and just my 2 cents
KKarns
August 2025
Hey Jeroen, appreciate the feed-back my friend! Much to consider as your analysis so eloquently pointed out. I really need to get the kit in hand and start laying out actual features as I plan a finished tie loading area as well as rough timber drop off among other details. I don’t want to force anything and is a complication of combining with an already established structure and scene. Fortunately the tie shack is small and limited in surrounding details so as not to steal the scene which will be focused on the Tie Mill. The bridge across the creek will help move the eye from the shack to the Tie Mill. I agree, the main viewing angle is of course front facing and the best advantage for the Tie Mill would be from the long dimension.
Jeroen
August 2025
Sorry Ken, didnt want to interfere too much of course, just trying to get some grip on options and preferences. Im sure that you will get the best out of this and of course youve got to see that tie mill first. I will follow with great interest and im curious how youre going to approach it!
KKarns
August 2025
Sorry???..shame on you :), nothing better than to banter back and forth on issues just like this. I’m thrilled to have the interest and other’s take on the layout of the project. This is what the forum is all about, sharing ideas and our work on these amazing creations by SierraWest Scale Models. I can’t tell you the number of times, if I went with my first thoughts on something, it would have been the wrong decision. Mulling over an issue like this, taking in others view points, and keeping an open mind takes the day. So excited to get this phase of the project going. You Jeroen, are greatly appreciated and a welcome comrade!
SteveCuster
August 2025
Excellent work Ken, I’m loving the scenery so far. Great work, as always.
KKarns
August 2025
Whoa!..been a long time Steve, really nice hearing from you. What the heck have you been up to? Thanks for the comments and have missed you around here.
SteveCuster
August 2025
Not a lot of modeling lately, unfortunately. I started on an O scale version of the SW Truck Repair and the walls are about 80% done but I haven’t had much time to work on it lately. We got a German Shepherd puppy in the beginning of the summer and he’s sticking to me like glue. That combined with the puppy chewing is making it impossible to go into the workshop, too many things for him to get into and destroy down there. Once I get him out of the puppy phase and get some more solid training into him, I hope to get back into it.
KKarns
August 2025
Time spent with a German Shepherd is time well spent! I’ve had several and nothing better than a well trained large breed. Look forward to seeing you around here more often. Hope to have something to show very soon…
KKarns
August 2025 edited August 2025
Wow…what an echo in here! Hello…hello…hello…
Whilst waiting for the Tie Mill in HO/HOn3 release, I finished up the detailing around the Tie Cutter’s Cabin (aka Wood Cutter’s Shack). As mentioned, I will be incorporating the Tie Mill into this diorama. A bit of finagling to the existing diorama base will be required to accomplish this. I will post my progress once the new Tie Mill kit is in hand. In the mean time…here is an update on the Tie Cutter’s Cabin exterior detailing:
Front/side view with all details on the front porch in place.
Old tie curved rough stairs up to the shack from lower level parking area.
Work area behind the shack. Brett’s fabulous Farmall Regular tractor kit getting a service including an oil change.
Close up of same.
View from behind the outhouse.
Aerial view of outhouse and service area.
Front view of outhouse along creek.
Oops…in use!
Overhead view of the rear of the shack…more later…Ken
Kevin L
August 2025
Looks fantastic.
TravisS
August 2025
At least give me a shout if you’re gonna take pics so I can close the door! Thought I was alone out here..dang
But seriously, Ken. Great job. The farmall looks great and I can’t get over your trees and woodland floor. Worth the time and effort that I’m sure that small forest took!
Karl.A
August 2025 edited August 2025
Outstanding modeling and scenery work. Some of the best, most natural scenery I have seen. Texture, variation, colour and depth.
The structure and details, it goes without saying that they are up to your unrivaled quality, and even beyond your previous work.
Excellent work so far.
sdrees
August 2025
Very nice Ken!!!
kebmo
August 2025
jeepers, what can’t you do?
KKarns
August 2025
Thanks so much Kevin!
Appreciate that Travis. The dude fit in there perfectly! The pine woods was an experiment in that type of tree/setting. I had previously only done deciduous trees and wanted to try something different. I try and work on a new and different modeling method/technique which each project. This time it was a mountain stream and the pine trees with associated ground litter. The Tie Mill will also add some cool detailing opportunities as well. Brett’s Farmall Tractor kit fit the scene just right. Look forward to the similar vehicles associated with The Mill kit!
Karl my friend, nice hearing from you! Your comments and support of my work means a great deal, so thank you! We have got to get together again some how…I’m tired of not knocking elbows with you all in person. Need to set a goal of meeting up somewhere somehow.
Hey Stephen, Thanks much for the thumbs up and support, appreciate ya!
KKarns
August 2025
lol…thanks Kebmo! To steal a line…“the list is long but distinguished”
TomMich
August 2025
WOW! Amazing! Everything blends so well together. I like the buried tie steps. And the shot of the tractor from behind the trees is really neat. That’s one fancy outhouse you’ve got there with a porcelain door knob.
Jerry
August 2025
Come on Ken where’s the model pictures???
As usual this is just excellent work by you. That scenery is so well done.
Jerry
KKarns
August 2025
Hey what up Jerry! Thanks much and have lots more to do particularly when I plant the Tie Mill kit. Back to the bench to sit and think about that:)
KKarns
August 2025
Decided to post a couple of pictures from the other side of the shack that I failed to show in the previous post.
The light colored lower part of the path is going to be darkened up a bit as its a bit too contrasting. Demonstrates the value of photographing your work as you go.
A few of the front porch details.
View of the creek with the fast water detail…more later. Ken
Jerry
August 2025
Wonderful scenery!!
Jerry
ALCOALCO
August 2025 edited August 2025
Outhouse by the creek…what could go wrong? HAHA. Great stuff. This will get several more views! Love the depth of the photos and the foggy look.
KKarns
August 2025
Thanks again Jerry, trying to keep the forum pumped up a bit as it’s been awfully quiet!
Jim M
August 2025
I love these pictures. You have done so well. The photos even have an early morning fog effect. So darn awesome.
Robert.G
August 2025
Karl just said everything I would have said . And all of this in HO ??? Holy sh°°
TomMich
August 2025
Looks GREAT from every angle!
KKarns
August 2025
Thanks Al. The mood lighting or mood fog was a pleasant accident. Gray wood fence in the background served the purpose!
Appreciate that Jim. Nice hearing from you and see the picture creation above.
Hey Robert, thanks so much! Chomping at the bit to get the Tie Mill going…
Thanks Tom and serves to stir up the forum a bit and a space filler until I get my hands on the Tie Mill…
admin
August 2025
The diorama itself as well as the scenery is fantastic! Love looking at these pics.
glandesjr
August 2025
This looks so amazing, Ken. The scenery is truly spectacular and I love the tractor. Even the outhouse looks awesome. What a great dio.
CraigM
August 2025
Agreed this looks amazing. The whole scene looks perfectly real.
KKarns
August 2025
Hey appreciate ya George, and thanks so much! That SWSM Tractor Kits are awesome and so highly detailed, they practically build and detail themselves!
Thanks much Craig, and nice hearing from you as always.
Jerry
August 2025
I sure hope you get the Tie Mill sooner than later!! Starting to get antsy waiting for your start on it!!
Jerry
KKarns
August 2025
lol…I hear ya Jerry!..me too. I have cleared the bench in anticipation…
glandesjr
September 2025
So Ken, with a dio this size what do you do with it? Does it go on a layout or do you display it “alone” in a display case?
KKarns
September 2025
lol…therein is the question! I have no plans for it to be included in a layout as I don’t currently have one. In addition, likely too big to put in a display case for now. My current stable of SWSM dioramas are in a covered glass display case or in plastic totes, depending on size. I have future plans to have them all displayed. I’ll likely take this one, and maybe Shelby’s Marine, to the 2026 NNGC.
KKarns
September 2025
With the pending shipping of SierraWest Scale Models HO/HOn3 Tie Mill, I’m taking the opportunity to outline how I plan to go about documenting the build of The Mill. As most of you know, I decided to incorporate the Tie Mill into my current diorama of the Wood Cutters Shack (aka Tie Cutters Shack). That portion is essentially done, save for further scenic work to mesh the two structures and operational workflow.
I have decided to start a new build thread for the Tie Mill structure proper, then come back to this thread for the combination of the two kits. Essentially I’ll be running two build threads cumulating in a Tie Cutter and Tie mill complex of operations. The entire workflow will be explained later as things develop.
My ultimate goal is three fold. In future builds, I plan to show the full operation of a crosstie production operation from start to finish. My current diorama covers phase 1, which is the processing of the raw material into an untreated fresh crosstie. The diorama will then depict the loading and static transportation of the crossties via rail.
Phase 2 will depict the transportation of the crossties via tie rafts on a river circa 1920s. Research has revealed a wealth of modeling opportunities during this phase of operations. Really excited about this mode of tie transport which just keeps getting more interesting the more research I do. I already have a reference company nailed down to model all three phases after. this will be revealed with the Tie Mill operational plan at the history review of the Tie Mill kit build.
Phase 3 will be a crosstie processing plant where the ties are seasoned and processed through the pressure treatment application followed by final shipping to the railroad end users.
So there you have the plan as it stands today. This may change as things progress.
More later,
Ken
ALCOALCO
September 2025
Ambitious! Just make sure that your house has an opening large enough to get this dio outdoors for fotos! LOL
KKarns
September 2025
Hey Al nice hearing from you. There will be three separate dioramas depicting the three outlined phases. However, the first diorama that I’m working on now is a bit unwieldy due to combining the two kits, but certainly doable. The other two won’t be very big by comparison, at least in my mind thus far!
Jim M
September 2025
This is going be good. I can’t wait for the show to continue. I love what you’re planning to do.
MuddyCreekRR
September 2025
I had similar thoughts…but I think I will add a rail loading area next to the Tie mill…and create shipping options to a creosote treating plant. I’m working of some 3D cad work to make pressure chambers for the ties to be treated. I will be following your build…mine is slightly in progress…hope to have photos up soon…
KKarns
September 2025
Hi Jim, nice to hear from you. I have never seen any crosstie dioramas quite like what I have envisioned. In fact, I don’t recall hearing about or seeing most of what I have planned modeled at all! It will all start with the Tie Mill…can’t wait to see that kit and to get started.
KKarns
September 2025
Glad to hear you have started your Tie Mill build Art. Expect to see a build thread started pronto and look forward to the photos my friend.
TravisS
September 2025
Can’t wait to see this take shape Ken! Ambitious for sure but I’m willing to bet you’ll knock it out of the park.
KKarns
September 2025
Well Travis Phase 1 is a for sure as that’s the Tie Mill. The other two are planned and of course, yet to be seen! Appreciate the support here my friend.
TomMich
September 2025
Looking forward to both of your builds! I have one ordered and look forward to its arrival. Ken, your concept sounds really interesting. Can’t wait to what you come up with.
KKarns
September 2025
Hey Tom, the more I researched the ins and outs of crosstie manufacturing, the more interested I became in modeling the process start to finish. Placed a sizable order with NorthEastern Scale Lumber for a good supply of strip wood I’ll need for all the ties. The 1920s should fit perfectly to the SWSM Tie Mill kit.
glandesjr
September 2025
I look forward to seeing this, Karl. I always learn something from your builds, Karl, and this one sounds like it will be a great dio.
glandesjr
September 2025
What am I thinking, KEN. If I could get the names right maybe my Alzheimer’s would go away LOL. Sorry about that, Ken.
KKarns
September 2025
No worries George, I’m in outstanding company being referred to as 'Karl".
Thanks for the support and I hope it shapes up as well as I have envisioned!
minion
September 2025
KKarns said:
No worries George, I’m in outstanding company being referred to as 'Karl".
Thanks for the support and I hope it shapes up as well as I have envisioned!
The three Ks, Ken, Karl and the late and much missed Kevin, all outstanding modellers. Unfortunately it would be frowned on to call them just by their initials.
Greatly looking forward to see how your monster project proceeds. It is much more ambitious than what I have planned for my Tie Mill.
KKarns
September 2025
Hey Nick, nice hearing from you my friend. My tie mill will be integrated with the Wood Cutter’s Shack diorama. The other two will be separate dioramas. If I manage to build them all they will consist of three separate dios. Tie Mill & Tie Cutter’s Shack, Crosstie River Transport, Crosstie treatment Facility.
Look forward to seeing what you come up with!
KKarns
September 2025
I will be pausing this thread for a bit whilst I build the Backwoods Tie Mill which will be integrated with this diorama. I’ll pick back up here once The Mill is completed and ready to plant. See: HO Scale Builds, HO/HOn3 Backwoods Tie Mill.
minion
September 2025
KKarns said:
I will be pausing this thread for a bit whilst I build the Backwoods Tie Mill which will be integrated with this diorama. I’ll pick back up here once The Mill is completed and ready to plant. See: HO Scale Builds, HO/HOn3 Backwoods Tie Mill.
OK, see you next week then ?
KKarns
September 2025
Ha! You know me better than that Nick!