This thread was started in February, 2013
KKarns
February 2013 edited February 2013 in HO Scale Builds
Here’s a real classic! Kit No. 202 Released March 1997 and long since sold out as most of Brett’s outstanding kits usually become quite quickly. Let me preface this modest, but for me quite challenging, build with my thoughts on the subject of Brett’s kits that are no longer available through SierraWest.
I called Brett and expressed my take on the subject as follows; just as Brett is committed to producing the finest scale model kits available on the planet, his customer base should be just as committed to do whatever we can to promote and help grow SierraWest. I told Brett I will never purchase a SierraWest kit from another source if it is one that Brett still has available or is planning to make available in the near future. I made this call as I obviously did not purchase the kit featured here from Brett for reasons already noted. Brett expressed his appreciation and this reflects my philosophy and, albeit small, support of SierraWest.
I wanted to put down a more structured thread on this build such as the ones I have so much enjoyed following. I’m starting out slow and featuring a few pictures of the kit and it’s contents with a few comments.
The Backwoods Water Tank & Storage Shed Kit No. 202 March 1997
Shot of the strip wood bags, looks manageable!
Here are a few of the main castings; The single piece resin cut stone pump house, water tank, and resin water tank roof.
Shot of all the castings. Note the lack of any metal castings and the emphasis on grouped resin castings.
Comments
KKarns
February 2013
Geesh! right out of the gate the thing messed up two of my pictures which I’m posting here, and they are now out of order…
ironmountainlumber
February 2013
Let the fun begin!
admin
February 2013
that is an old one you found there bro! The resin water tank roof casting is from the original run… looking forward to this “old school” build!
LSNRwyAl
February 2013
I agree. If you want the manufacturer to be there for you, do not damge his business by buying under the counter, off a discounter, etc. - - if the manu. can supply your needs. The short term money saved will be long gone while the pain of a lost manufacturer will linger for years after they are gone.
KKarns
February 2013
Brett, how many were in the original run? The quality of this kit is great with many unique features. How cool to be building a classic old kit from SW…
Jim, Should have fun with this one as it will be my first go at stone and brick work. The pump house will make or break this build!
Alan, glad you agree and that you got what I was trying to convey. You put it down quite well and thanks for expanding on the concept.
KKarns
February 2013
Well here goes! the cut stone pump house has been detailed.
I decided to go with a deep backwoods feel where the cut stone would be damp and moss covered. The other builds I have seen, the pump house is much lighter stone giving more of a western look. I wanted this to look like is was tucked under some fir trees and heavily shaded and damp. Anyway, my first attempt at stone and brick work. A few more minor details are going to be added. On to the water tank…-K
Wes
February 2013
Very cool. There is a lot of resin in that kit and you’ve got yourself off to a great start.
I like the idea of the stone being damp and moss covered. Keep posting those progress pics.
brownbr
February 2013
AK Interactive makes a “slimy green” oil wash.
LSNRwyAl
February 2013
May I humbly suggest a little more shadows in the cracks/morter lines ?
Might give more definition to each stone.
KKarns
February 2013
Larger pics must be a no..no..sorry
Wes, the pump house and water tank are big chunks. Yea, seemed to me that it would make sense to be a damp area. Anyway, makes my dark pump house fit in better to that scenario!
Bryan, thanks I checked out AK interactive but did not locate the “slime green” wash. Will look again.
Alan, good suggest. Will try either some darker chalk run in with pra, or AI.
Karl.A
February 2013 edited February 2013
Looking great as usual Ken, the stone colouring is really nice and you have good definition without it looking like an ornate stone wall in a garden center.
Larger pics were/are just fine. They are showing up for everyone and certainly were not removed by administrators. As long as the file size does not exceed 150k or so the image can be as big as you dare to show us !!!
Elliot had the same problem last week not being able to see his own pics while we were all enjoying them.
Keep up the great work and progress reports.
Karl.A
MikeM
February 2013
Try looking at the dark and light slimy grime at Interactive. They also have a set that includes both these and a fuel stain simulation; bought the set but have been so tied down with benchwork I haven’t had time to try it out yet.
us_okrim
February 2013
Ken,
Your work looks really awesome, its actually quite unbelievable how goog it looks knowing you just started doing this kind of stuff a little while ago.
Could you give the real rookies out there a run down on who you got the stone pump house so nicley detailed. A step by sep scenario so to speak…
Thanks a lot in advance. us-okrim
Karl.A
February 2013
Ken if you really want a mossy look to some of the stones personally I’d stick with the Rembrandts you are already using.
A medium to dark green chalk will give you the tint you are looking for, plus you can build up a little texture with the chalks, kinda like heavy rust, but green, to show growth. Also work in some colour variation by mixing in some white for a lighter green to show highlights.
There are a plethera of chalk colours, plus an infinite mixing ability/variety, if needed.
Wargaming paint such as “Angry Troll Armpit Green” may be the perfect colour for the moss you need, but is easily reproduced, and with the bonus of texture.
Keep us up to date…
Karl.A
LSNRwyAl
February 2013 edited February 2013
Wargaming paint such as “Angry Troll Armpit Green” may
Now there is a paint colour name you can easily grow to love. 
I agree with the use of the chalks. Colour, texture, and can add more later if you want more depth. Like what I did here on this truck.
LSNRwyAl
February 2013 edited February 2013
Let us try this again.
Wargaming paint such as “Angry Troll Armpit Green” may
Now there is a paint colour name you can easily grow to love.
I agree with the use of the chalks. Colour, texture, and can add more later if you want more depth. Like what I did here on this truck.
brownbr
February 2013
My bad. It’s called “slimy grime” and comes in light or dark.
KKarns
February 2013
Hey us_okrim..Thanks for the comment. OK, really quite simple and follows Bretts instructions..I primed the pump house with Floquil Earth Spray and then let cure. Then I began dry brushings with increasingly darker shades until I had the general dark color I wanted. Then began highlighting each rock or rock groups. I wanted a cut limestone as my main rock type. I used a dry brushing of grey for the middle of the rock layer and darker on the sides. Dry brushed some green shades towards the bottom for the damp mossy look and that’s where I’m now going to try for more texture. Hope that helps…
Karl, Yup..I think that’s the right path to get more texture. Didn’t have the right greens so just placed an order for a palette of green Rembrandts from Dick Blick.
Alan, as above…love the wheels on your truck..I assume your planning to “crap up” the wood truck bed! or did it just get replaced when the old one fell off on the road?
Bryan, these names for the colors cracks me up! So it’s “slimy grime”, can you get a pic of where you used it?
Here are some more pictures…The first is the resin shed roof pieces that are simulated wood shakes. Ditto for the water tank roof second and third, and finally a shot of the water tank.
brownbr
February 2013
Great job on the tank.
MikeM
March 2013
The tank looks fantastic! So what combination of materials/techniques did you choose to use on it (I love the NoSquint option for Firefox, you can really zoom in and see the subtle tints you got)?
LSNRwyAl
March 2013
Love the look of the roofs and tank body.
Yes the bed of truck is new. The former (fired) employee backed into a rock wall and tore the metal bed to …
The company could not afford a new one!
us_okrim
March 2013
Ken,
Thanks for the rundown on the stone pump house. This helps a lot.
You progress looks great. I really like the water stains at the bottom of the water tank. And I agree with Mike. Could you give us a quick explanation on the water tank as well? I assume you started with spraying the entire casting with Floquil earth Spray as well. How did you build up the texture and what colors did you use? I can see some drybrushing in that picture as well ( Floquil Boxcar Red?)
Again, thanks a lot Ken, for all your explanations.
Karl.A
March 2013
Great start on the three roofs Ken.
The tank really looks great, lots of definition and variation. Can’t wait to see what you do to it next…
Karl.A
KKarns
March 2013
Hey guys, appreciate the pos. feed-back, helps to know you’re on the right track! Tank was done by a thinned down wash of Floquil Earth brushed on, not sprayed. Then I used Floquil Rail Brown followed by a light dusting, don’t want to cover up the wood grain, with Raw Umber 408.3, 408.5 and then a bit of Grey 704.5. The tank bands are done with Polly Milw. Road Maroon and of course some rust chalk. Mike; don’t get too close with your “NoSquint” you’ll end up seeing where I had to repair the bands in a few spots as this casting has been knocking around in the box since 1997 and a few “chunks” of the bands were broken off in a few places.
Karl, thanks and appreciate you following along as your wisdom is highly valued…
I have attached pictures of my first batch of prepped strip wood. This grouping is for the shed walls. I used a stain mixed up on my bench from Floquil Dirt and hand applied and brushed rather than the soaking technique…still a manageable amount of strip wood in this kit. That will soon change as my next build will be much larger…slowly working up!
ironmountainlumber
March 2013
Hi Ken,
The base of the water tank looks superb. I like the various colors of he individual rocks, the bricks, and the door. The door looks old and faded. This stone and brick is very natural in its color as well. The tank and shingles look like real wood. Excellent job! Do you use photos to color the resin castings to get your colors the way you want or are you doing this simply by eye?
Jim
KKarns
March 2013
Jim, appreciate your comments as always and what I do is first think about how I want the build to fit into my overall layout plans. I wanted the “Water Tank” to have a more deep forest look which to me meant a bit darker stones and an overall more damp humid environment. I did not choose the prep based on any pictures just what I thought looked good and met my goals. Still have some texture to add here and there for moss growing on the bottom few rows of stones on the pump house. Also may put a little moss colored chalk on the very edges of some of the shingles. Will wait to see how the thing turns out before adding too much more…less is more…
This build is going to be a diorama as well…my first..and can’t wait to try it. I have ordered a mess of scenery supplies and sifted some woods debris from around my place here in Ohio. Scoured all the build threads on scenery, particularly Karl’s superb one. Learned tons from that one! One wall done…two more to go..-K
KKarns
March 2013
The three walls completed with the pump house functioning as the fourth wall. In order as posted looking from the front;
Right Wall
Rear Wall
Front Wall
Also included the right and rear walls with some signs tentatively in place (not glued)
ironmountainlumber
March 2013
Hi Ken,
Superb ! Spectacular !! I think the walls keep on getting even more realistic. I thought the prior build walls were fantastic and could not look any better. Wow! These walls could easily pass for o scale. There is alot of texture and work on each board. This is going to be a beautiful model ( just like your others). Did you do anything different?
The signs look excellent too very nice muting of the color and the rust around the edges of the old gold sign is perfect. Once you are done you have got to enter a contest with your builds.
Jim
KKarns
March 2013
Hey Jim, thanks so much, your encouragement and comments mean a great deal. It got a bit hairy with detailing those front wall boards one-by-one at about 1/16 x 3/16 each!
Will continue to “fiddle” with a few of the other signs as an example, the edges of the Climax sign look to crisp to me. I decided to weather and space the boards a bit generously as this shed design has a very open concept with no doors and the large open paired bays with the left one open all the way through. You asked if I did anything different…I discovered a neat way to color and stain the strip wood that gave me a nice texture and variation in the wood, other than that, I detailed each board one at a time. Also, with this build I had to build each stud wall from scale 2x4 strip wood.
As I mentioned, this build is going to be a diorama. Fetched some base material through Karl’s suggestion of sanded grout in a light beige color and I have a pile of other scenic materials at hand from various sources. Can’t wait to get into it…
brownbr
March 2013
I like the detailing of the individual boards and the overall gray coloring. The dirt washing up from the ground is a nice addition.
Wes
March 2013
Ken
The muddier bottom 2 boards are a nice touch. Something that is often over looked by people. Your knotholes are fantatsic too.
sfc
March 2013
Can’t wait to see it assembled! Great work.
KKarns
March 2013
Thanks guys…I think I’ll go with the signs as is with a bit more weathering on a couple. I’m messin with the foam base as I’m putting a road in the back that will be on a grade with a wood retaining wall and keeping the base as an 8 x 8.
admin
March 2013
the color/weathering on the walls is gonna look great with your stone casting…
KKarns
March 2013
Brett, the mock up of the walls and the stone casting does look good. I’m messing around with the diorama base putting in an access road in the back behind the fence with a grade and retaining wall so had to order some appropriate scale lumber for this so postings are delayed. First go at the diorama portion so we’ll see…-K
Karl.A
March 2013
Oh lawdy lawdy , a monster has been created… fences, grades, roads… where will it all end.
KKarns
March 2013
Ahh, come on…I know you guys put something in the resin that gets you hooked on this stuff! Here’s a pick of the back of the Water Tank & Storage Shed 8 x 8 diorama I’m putting together. There is a roughed in road leading up to the water tank with the retaining wall holding back the cut. There is a ditch on that side and the road, once the section is placed in my layout, will go down and cross a small creek on an old wood bridge just a foot or two above the creek bed and the track will traverse the creek at the level of the water tower over a timber bridge.
KKarns
March 2013
Few pics of the shed floor which is not completely detailed yet and the walls are just set in place temporarily.
KKarns
March 2013
Wes
March 2013
Looking good.
Karl.A
March 2013
I’ve been away from the forums for a week due to work and this is what I come back to…? Just the same ole same ole great stuff… aint life wonderful !!
Sounds like you have big plans for the layout Ken, but if those big plans change and evolve you are going to have a great little scene which you can fit into the new big plans.
I’m looking forward to seeing you get some details onto this baby. Maybe don’t dull them all down so much this time, a little colour isn’t a terrible thing as long as its muted.
Karl.A
(Shiney red oil drums are a ‘no no’ )
KKarns
March 2013
Thanks Wes it’s fun doing a nostalgic build like this…
Karl, I really am warming up to the idea of the dioramas then sinking them into the layout later as that BIG project evolves. I’m having a blast with this build as there are a number of new techniques for me and, like I mentioned to Wes, this is a nice older kit of Brett’s. I agree I don’t want to get into a rut of detailing things the same way every time. We’ll see how this progresses once I get to the diorama detailing. Should have some more pics soon. -K
KKarns
March 2013
Few more details; tank platform, spout support, tank platform to roof ladder, and depth gauge. HO Scale must mean Elliot goes 84 mph while I go one!
ironmountainlumber
March 2013
Hi Ken,
Excellent job. Everthing looks great together. The overall coloring is nicely muted and looks like an old water tower. I still really like the colors and various texture of this kit. This is really another excellent kit from Brett. I wonder if Brett would ever do a short run of this kit down the road so those of us that don’t have one could get one? After seeing your build, I wish I had started building models again when Brett started producing them. So many excellent kits that are no longer available. It is hard to believe that people trade/sell the kits rather than build them. Such a same. Great job again, keep up the most excellent work. Can’t wait to see your take on the castings as well.
Jim
KKarns
March 2013
Thanks Jim. Your exactly right, I snagged this one just for the reasons you mentioned. Brett no longer makes it and someone had it all this time without building it! Messing around with the diorama base in between details on the structure with castings to follow.
-K
KKarns
March 2013
Couple of initial shots of the rock formations along the trackside small creek. The creek will be rocky on the bottom with a very small amount of water with many of the rocks showing above the water.
ironmountainlumber
March 2013
Hi Ken,
The rocks look great. What did you use to color them or are they natural rocks?
Can’t wait to see this all together.
Jim
Wes
March 2013
Hi Ken
If those arn`t real rocks, you’ve done one amazing job.
brownbr
March 2013
It looks very natural
KKarns
March 2013
Mother nature at her best! The rocks are real and are a hard shale. Thinking now about making it a dry ditch rather than a creek as I don’t have much room for water. Keeping the diorama base at 8x8 inches. I should still get some points for rock placement and general effort…right? -K
Karl.A
March 2013
You get some points for general effort, placement is hard to tell just yet, however the rock far right in the picture looks way too big for me and also too uniformly shaped compared to the others, I’d strongly suggest removing/replacing it.
The structure really looks great, the warm, worn tones of the wood, stone and shingles play nicely with each other. Nice progress.
Karl.A
Wes
March 2013
How about a bit of a curve in the creek just to break up the straight lines a bit and make some space for the water.
KKarns
March 2013
Thanks guys…need all the help I can get on dio issues!
Karl, I agree with the big rock on the right, it’s gone.. with similar layered slabs replacing it. They are all just stuck into the foam..no glue yet just for this reason. First attempt at a diorama so I’ll be nursing it along with your and the crew’s help!
Wes, Yea that would make perfect sense except I’m stuck with a few space limiting issues; first is that I want/need to stay with the 8x8 inch base. Second, the water tower to track spacing needs to be where it is so the water spout is positioned where it would be to service the locos. This leaves me just a narrow berm between the track and the ditch/creek. Probably tried to fit too much in on this one diorama (ie, road in the back leading up to the water tank).
brownbr
March 2013
I would think about not adding the track into the dio. Plan where your track will go on your layout and mark out where the water tank should go. From there cut out a section of sub roadbed starting at the roadbed and going back as far as you need. this way there won’t be a track cutting or wiring issue later.
MikeM
March 2013
Are the rocks supposed to be naturally occurring or moved into place? If the latter, maybe they should be on a scale similar to the stones in the structure? Where I live there are many retaining walls that look similar to what you have now (no need for water though our weather provides plenty of that) and you measure them by how many men it would take to move them. Generally there’s an upper limit with some smaller ones thrown in the mix to make construction more stable.
Karl.A
March 2013
I would tend to agree with Bryan. End the base right up to where the track would be.
My first diorama, the tool shed did indeed include the tracks, I have since regretted this and my subsequent dioramas, such as Railroad Camp (part 1) and O’Neils end where the track would be.
This will give more versatility and less reconfiguring in the future.
Confined to 8x8 … hmmmmm… sounds like an award winning contest entry in the making… I look forward to watching it progress.
Karl.A
ironmountainlumber
March 2013
I agree with Karl and Bryan. I too have been thinking about whether to include the track in the build I am doing and had decided not to. It will be more difficult to get a smooth transition among the track pieces and leaving it out will eliminate trouble wiring the small piece of track or derailments in your layout ( just my two cents worth). Also if you ever move your layout you could remove the dioramas to prevent breakage and leave all the track in place.
Jim
KKarns
March 2013
Mike, the rocks are designed to be bedrock along the ditch and although the rock is a hard shale, to scale it could pass as limestone layers such as the material used in the pump house. The intermittent exposure is to simulate where topsoil has sloughed in and filled in some areas of weathering and gives me a place for some landscaping and breaks it up.
Bryan, Karl, Jim;
The issue of the track is that it is only being placed for the sake of the diorama and will be lightly glued down and easily moved/removed if and when needed. Karl caught me!..I’m attending the Expo in the fall in MA. and want to enter this dio just for fun since I’ll be there anyway (tail end of an east coast vacation with my wife). I want to keep the track to complete the dio and have one that is no doubt associated with a railroad. As a result, I want to keep it at 8x8 or jump to the 12x12 entry which I’d rather not do.
Karl.A
March 2013
Good thinking and forethought Ken, lightly tacking down the track.
Entering the dio will indeed give you lots of fun and good feedback from all of us there. It is so much better to stand next to the guy and hear their thoughts, I look forward to seeing you there, with the dio.
Stick with 8x8, compact and full of interest, if you try to spread an 8x8 dio into a 12x12 space you may only end up diluting the impact of your work over a larger area. Just my thoughts.
Karl.A
KKarns
March 2013
Karl, Great to know you’ll be there this fall and can’t wait to hob nob with the group and absorb as much as I can.
The dio is staying 8x8… will keep you posted as to the progress. -K
Bill
March 2013
Well how the heck did I miss this thread???
Fantastic job, Ken. Your pump house looks very nice and particularly the brick work–the colors are perfect. Nice work on the shake tank roof and walls, not to mention the tank itself.
Another stellar job on your strip wood. Nice texture and color and I really like your metal signs. Cool!
On page 3 you wrote, “I discovered a neat way to color and stain the strip wood that gave me a nice texture and variation in the wood, other than that, I detailed each board one at a time.” Okay, you’ve been posting here long enough. Spill it!! I miss ONE thread and now there’s some new magic way to prep strip wood and everybody knows it 'cept me!!
I demand answers!
Seriously, the whole build looks awesome. The only think I’d rethink is what you’re using for track. You’ve got all those nice details perfectly in scale, everything looks real, but the track kills the illusion. Whatever brand it is, it’s got that series of gigantic plastic tie plates making it look like a toy. Easy enough fix: use a piece of Micro Engeineering code 83 or 70 and space out the ties like you did. Or, try a little hand laid track. It’s only an 8" section and is pretty easy to lay down.
Again, nice work and I’m glad to hear you’re bringing it to the Expo so we can see it in person. Keep it up!
Bill
KKarns
March 2013
Hey Bill, great hearing from you and thanks so much for your input!
Your insight on the track issue was dead on. I made an attempt to hand weather regular HO scale section track and of course have not glued down the track yet as I wasn’t sure it was going to cut it. After your insight.. it’s gone for good. Brett used ME code 55 narrow gauge rail and ties and hand laid them. I’m thinking of the same and have an order ready to go for the pre-weathered rail and ties. The Water Tank will by on a spur track so what do you think about the hand laid Code 55 unballasted?
OK..the method I came across for staining the strip wood, which gave me some really nice texture and varying tones, was used on the Water Tank & Storage Shed featured here. After the normal texturing of the strip wood with the brass brush I used Floquil Earth and thinned it down with thinner on my bench then brushed it on with a soft brush. Then, after only about 5 minutes or so, while the stain was still a bit “sticky” I lightly brushed the strip wood varying the amount and pressure of the brushing and was really amazed at how much variation in tones and wood graining I got. I tried the same brushing on a well dried piece of wood and there was a definite difference. I suppose the brushing re-distributed and forced the stain down into the grain of the wood or exposed more fresh wood to give more highlights, whatever the mechanics were I liked the results and they appear reproducible. Love to hear from anyone who would care to try it.
Can’t wait to meet you guys and I plan on attending your seminar!
Bill
March 2013
Wow, that’s cool. I always forget to grab a brass brush unless the manual calls for it. Thanks for the run down. Sounds like something I’m going to have to experiment with.
Bill
KKarns
April 2013
Bill, yea give it a try and let me know what you think. Would be a tough drill on a big project like your sawmill but is manageable on a smaller build. I mean I just gave some pieces just a couple of back and forth strokes with the brush and could immediately see the results and it got better when fully dry.
ironmountainlumber
April 2013
Awesome on entering this build into THE contest!. What a cool show to be able to attend and learn from the SierraWest crew. I too was thinking about the track over the weekend and then saw Bill chimed in. This is a beautiful build and the track distracts from the build. Hand laid track will really add and compliment the build. I think a small amount of ballast with weeds and grass would look cool inbetween the tracks ( my 2 cents worth). I think hand laid track with color variations in the ties and rusty rails will help put this over the top. Great job as always!
Jim
KKarns
April 2013
Hey Jim; Yup, no doubt the track choice change was a sound decision, nice job Bill!. I’ll keep you updated on the track install and see what you think. In the mean time a couple updates, albeit minor, but still progress…railing, ground to deck ladder, final, and tank roof rafters. I cut the final in half from the original as I thought it stuck up too high, this looks nice and a bit more subtle I think?
Wes
April 2013
This whole thing is coming along beautifully.
I wouldn’t say that it was resin looking at the pics.
brownbr
April 2013
Nice progress. It’s sure a show stopper
KKarns
April 2013
Thanks guys, almost started putting on the roof of the storage shed then put the brakes on as I need to get the castings done and positioned as the inside is quite visible and the roof makes it tough to position things. Also, the spout on the water tank will have to wait as it would be just asking to get knocked off doing the scenery. So…on with the diorama landscaping!
us_okrim
April 2013
Gret job, Ken. Am still marveling about the fantastic “staining the stone foundation” job. Looks really terrific, even without the scenery. Once all is blended in with castings and scenery it will look fantastic. Would look really great on my layout. Mirko
KKarns
April 2013
Hey Mirko, Thanks for the feed-back. It’s funny, I was most concerned going into this build with the stone casting and getting the detailing right for my layout plans. Fortunately things fell in place and I’m reasonably happy with it and tickled to be able to acquire such a nice classic piece. Did you see I mentioned MY layout plans…-K
KKarns
April 2013
Things are progressing slow as I’m working on the landscaping. Experimenting with different color grouts and applications and waiting for my code 55 pre-weathered rail and wood ties to come in. I’m starting on the back of the dio where the road comes up a grade to the back of the Water Tank building. Mistakes won’t be as noticeable and ultimately fixable. The road has the base layer down and base coloring. A few scape items temporarily in place along the retaining wall. Will continue to add in details for the road berm and center line while I wait for the track laying supplies! -K
Wes
April 2013
Beautiful modelling Ken.
Your landscaping is really starting to take shape.
srankin6
April 2013
really nice job …still have this kit tucked away, great .inspiration…wish the hands were were steadier for HO.
KKarns
April 2013
Thanks for the encouragement as I feel I’m progressing painfully slow! The scenery is taking much thought and planning being my first time at putting together a diorama. My track and ties arrived so things should get moving along. The biggest decision is arriving at a base dirt layer that I like. The road here is an experiment and turned out OK but not sure I want it for the rest of the dio. Once I get that worked out I should be able to get the castings staged and then move on to sinking things into some dirt!
brownbr
April 2013
I really like the retaining wall.
KKarns
April 2013
Hey Bryan, I wanted to use a variety of scenic techniques on this build, despite the relatively small space, to bone up on the skills needed as this is my first go at a diorama. It will fit nicely into my overall layout plans for this spur section. Although the wall, road, rock lined ditch, track section, fence, etc..makes for a bit busy scene, not all this can be seen at the same time!..good thing? I was inspired to construct the road and wall from Karl’s great build thread “Dirt, Details, & Dioramas” If I come anywhere close to Karl’s dirt road depicted in the thread I’ll be thrilled.
KKarns
April 2013
Another filler pick so you don’t think I’m loafing. Few of the castings roughly staged…-K
ironmountainlumber
April 2013
The castings look superb. Painting all the details in the boxes really adds alot to the level of detail you are doing on the dio. One bottle has a really nice sheen to it which helps with the illusion of glass. Glad to see that you are using lots of color! I am really amazed how much detail is in bretts castings. Stuff you don’t see until you start painting them ( I keep on wondering how he does this and have meant to ask him how he does this). Nice start on the road. The crates look old and weathered. What color of chaulk did you use for the crates? Are you using vallejo paints or floquil and poly s paints for your castings? Looking foward to more pictures as I am always amazed at the level of detail you are putting into your builds!
Jim
djdutch
April 2013
Just jumping in to this thread, I really love this build it is the only fully explaint build about the water tank and storage shed that I found on the web.
I like you the colors that you used and it blend out together so well thanks for posting
DJ
KKarns
April 2013
Hey Jim, Detailing a few castings held me over until my track and cross ties arrived. The crates were primed with washes of Floquil earth and depot buff then when dry a light wash all over of dirt (the color Jim, not the real stuff! After that dried, I dry brushed on grime and then a light chalking with grey (704.5) I use both Floquil and Poly Scale. I like Poly Scale on the non-wood items and prefer the Floquil on the wood stuff. The poly on wood hides too much detail. As always, really enjoy hearing from you Jim. Lets get some of your stuff up?? -K
DJ, your right…I couldn’t find another build thread on this kit either. Glad it is appearing useful to someone. Do you have this kit? I really like how its gone up and the fact that it’s a nostalgic piece just makes all that much better. Stay in touch. -K
djdutch
April 2013
yes I bought the kit last year, the time this kit came out I was 10 years old 
I’m waiting for some room to build it and I have to find out wich colors are match with the floquil and poly scale because I can’t get them over here.
I also have the tractor repair shed and woodcutters shack the last one would be the first I’m gonna build.
I think you did a very good job can’t wait to see the finished diorama
DJ
ironmountainlumber
April 2013
Thanks Ken for the tutorial. The dry brush with grime is an excellent idea. Going to try it this week. It is amazing so many excellent ideas from so many people about how to color the castings which gives you different but excellent results. A lot of fun. I definitely need to get on the stick and start posting a build. Will do soon.
Jim
KKarns
May 2013
OK, Here’s the deal…I have been on the sidelines for a good while due to server problems that prevented me from accessing Brett’s web-site. Brett was instrumental in getting this resolved as of today! That was the bad news. Good news is that I have been busy getting the build moving along with lots a pictures.
The roof has not been installed least I get all the interior details finished and attached as the access is limited thereafter. I have all the castings in “staged positions” for the final diorama placement( save for the large oil tank that goes on the wood platform). If any of my casting placement irritates anyone, please let me know before I glue them down!
Of note:
The close up was taken of the cool light pole that is on the east side of the pump house to illustrate the simulated electrical cord wrapped around the pole, per Brett’s instructions. Also, the shade is a resin casting and was flat on the bottom and I added a drop of Epoxy to simulate a light bulb poking out. What a nice detail.
Air compressor is an awesome feature Brett included with the tarp draped over the side and the coiled hose. I also added strip wood to the back of the large (long) casting at the rear as where I placed it the back would show.
More later…-K
KKarns
May 2013
Felt I needed to have a couple of better images of the air compressor. Such a cool feature.
brownbr
May 2013
So you were denied access to the website…was it like a restraining order…were you stalking… Just kidding.
Great progress. I agree that the light and compressor are great details. But I think the piles of clutter are just as nice. As is the touch of green on the stonework.
ironmountainlumber
May 2013
Superb job! Everything looks excellent. I really can’t wait to see the roof on and the spout on the tank. Getting closer to a finished dio and great contest entry. Keep it up.
Jim
KKarns
May 2013
Hey Bryan, Yea, started to take it personally! Really… the SW server was blocking my IP address for some reason (I was getting a 403 permission denied error) but Brett got it worked out with the security folks and all is now well…The green mossy look on the stones seemed to work and give me the look I was after…getting there.
Jim, Thanks for the comment and sorry for the big delay in response from your last post. The spout will be one of the very last things I finish as it will be just asking to get knocked around when I start spreading dirt! The roof and roof details are next followed by the landscaping. The open area in the fence in the back is for delivery of the oil drums. I’ll have the stake bed truck there unloading a few…-K
Karl.A
May 2013
Ken!! Welcome back!!
Really nice shots of your work, great to see them.
I particularly like your last picture, it re-enforces what I was trying to say some time ago.
As an overview it all blends together perfectly but, when you look closer you notice the green bottles, the white stripe on the oil drum, the yellow edge to the compressor grill, the silver/metallic items on the work bench.
At first glance none of these things stand out, everything just looks natural, as it should, the colours are all there and subdued beautifully. Nice job.
Karl.A
(Great job on the water tank bands also)
KKarns
May 2013
Hey Karl, Thanks for the note and your seasoned wisdom as always. Wouldn’t believe the panic that sets in knowing you can’t communicate with “the group” anymore…cold sweat, palpitations, that kind of thing. Glad to be back and participating. You folks are the link that makes this stuff all worth while and such fun. More later…-K
Karl.A
May 2013 edited June 2013
Ken, I’m only 6 years in (maybe 7) so I’m hardly seasoned and as for wisdom… you make me sound like an older guy!!!
I just know good modeling when I see it, and I see it.
Fun is what it’s all about… where are the new pics? Slacker.
Karl.A
KKarns
June 2013
Great! now you’re ruining it for me…I had pictured you as that arm around the shoulder, grey haired, deep set eyes peering over the bifocals, patriarch kind of fella!
Irrespective of your chronological position in life, It’s easy to recognize those key individuals, such as yourself, whom you want to surround yourself with and soak up as much of their “wisdom” as you can. These folks are the ones that are sorely missed in any organization. I know from the short time I have been involved with this “organization” that you are highly respected, a top shelf modeler, and I appreciate your tutelage and can’t wait for that arm around the shoulder…in person!
KKarns
June 2013
Couple shots of the oil storage tank and platform. Not finished with it but close…-K
Karl.A
June 2013
Kind words indeed Ken, and much appreciated. I look forward to meeting you at the Expo.
Platform looks really great, tank looks good… I’m not liking the stumps though.
However, as you say, you’re not finished yet, so I will wait to see how it evolves.
While looking at the tank/platform which is the focus of your post I also noticed how well the surrounding details/castings have been done.
Karl.A
djdutch
June 2013
If I mention before Ken this is a nice build everything is blending together very wel nice colors and scenery (for so far its done) I like it.
I think it would be a nice detail to replace the stump for a tree and some leaves that are fallen of around the tank and to place the stumps somewhere near the track, because those trees where properly standing in the way
just an idea
DJ
KKarns
June 2013
Dj, Thanks for your input. I’m having a blast with this build. The stumps are just set there to see how they wear on me. My idea was to have the outside of the fenced area much more overgrown and neglected. The stumps would be in amongst weeds, clutter, etc. not sold on them and will move things around as I prepare for the final scenicking. Actual trees will have to be beyond the perimeter of this diorama which is 8 x 8…-K
KKarns
June 2013
Yo Karl, Tree stumps are are a bit irritating? Is it the detailing or the placement or both? They were done as a bit of an experiment as I’ll need a bunch for the overall logging railroad scenic treatment. Other than the access road in back, it’s the only area outside the fenced area, in the diorama, that I can put anything and wanted a more neglected look. May be trying to put too much in a too little space? Thanks…-K
Karl.A
June 2013
placement for me is all wrong, especially two of them next to each other.
stumps themselves are beautifully painted and weathered… just not there.
neglected area yes, stumps no.
too close to the fence, too close to a cultivated area. it just looks like a modeler stuck them there for effect, not good.
only my opinion, disregard at will.
Karl.A
Karl.A
June 2013
May be trying to put too much in a too little space? Thanks…-K
You already knew it from instinct…
djdutch
June 2013
but is this just an diorama on its own ore did it become a part of your layout (if you have or gonna build one) ?
If it become a part of an layout you can finish the diorama but save some castings for after the installation
DJ
KKarns
June 2013
Karl, Stumps…what stumps?..I don’t see any stumps…
Thanks Karl for your insight, which of course goes without saying. This is the stuff I love about FSMing and this web-site…the people and the conversation…the rest is just a bunch of wood, resin, and glue.
Dj: This diorama will be incorporated into a early 1900s logging railroad layout. Plenty of room to dribble stumps all over the place! I’ve got to keep in mind this 8"x8" diorama will be placed in a 26’ x 13’ space so don’t cram it all in here…
KKarns
June 2013
Completed roof, rafters, fire barrels and walkway. Next up…lay the track and begin scenic work…Spout assembly will be last to keep it from getting damaged during the track and scenery instal…-K
admin
June 2013
Looking mighty fine… The air compressor is especially nice tucked away inside.
Joel
June 2013
Beautiful work. looking forward to seeing the completed model. It’s close now…
KKarns
June 2013
Brett: Love the air compressor! This has been a really fun build. Thanks, you did a marvelous job putting this thing together.
Hey Joel…thanks for the note..and I am getting close! A little track laying and then spreading some dirt…-K
KKarns
June 2013
Well…I took a deep breath and started slinging dirt all over my diorama! Just getting started with the base layer down and the rough worn path around the building defined. Not happy with many things but hope they will come together as I move along. The road is getting there. The dark base layer may be too dark so will lighten that with successive layers. We’ll see…
djdutch
June 2013
I think it looks pretty good so far, what kind of dirt did you used for the different colors ?
And I think that some detailing and vegatation will blend it all together.
DJ
admin
June 2013
Great start. Be sure to layer additional finer scenery elements (rocks, dirt, greenery) when adding castings and details. Sprinkling increasingly finer materials on top of the base is the best way to get a realistic look with depth. Blend the scenery once dry with a brush and some chalk powder and dirt…
KKarns
June 2013
DJ..I’m finding out that at this point things look worse before they get better for sure. As the layers are built up and a few castings sunk in things really start to look like something. I used two shades of real dirt sifted very fine as the base then have been adding various ground mosses, sifted leaf litter, etc.. Got some nice stuff from sifting gravel driveway material that provided a nice blend of light colors.
Brett..perfect timing on your suggestions as I’m just starting the build up of the layers now and your method of blending the final dried scenery with chalk and fine dirt is one of those “ah-ha” moments…as I was struggling with that very thought as I moved from one area to another. The main areas seem to get just a slight bit segregated with respect to the color tones and textures and a final dry dusting sounds perfect…thanks for that. Working on small “mini-scenes” rather than everything at once. Less to correct if things go astray. On the oil tank area right now and what a great little scene this is.
KKarns
June 2013
Update on the placement of a few castings and some additional layering of the ground materials. Still much detailing to do but wanted to get a feel for how it was going. More later…-K
The access road detailing is almost done. The very end corner will be treated to blend in where the retaining wall ends. More later…-K
John_in_australia
June 2013
Wow !!
djdutch
June 2013
wow can’t wait for some pictures in real sunlight
DJ
brownbr
June 2013
I like the way this is shaping up.
Karl.A
June 2013
Very. Impressive Ken, dirt looks fantastic at this point and the details are great. Really nice work so far.
Karl. A
KKarns
June 2013
Glad to hear the general consensus is that I’m on track with the dirt and ground cover. Thanks for your input. Didn’t think about taking it outside for a couple of pictures, will try that, Thanks Dj.
Karl, nice hearing from you and thanks for the note. I have your build from “Dirt, Details, and Dioramas” on my desk top and bang back and forth through those great shots particularly in an attempt to emulate your road. That sequence really helped out though of course I went a bit darker overall for the deep woods feel. There are still a few little spots on the road that I need to tweak where the base shows through a little, etc.
Wes
June 2013
The whole diorama is fantastic. Love the road.
KKarns
June 2013
Thanks Wes, I put the road in for a couple reasons. I wanted to customize the diorama just a bit and to see if I could construct a plausible road for this and future builds. The pics show some progress on the ground cover and the detailing along the back fence…more later -K
Karl.A
June 2013
Nice progress,
Karl.A
davej
June 2013
I like the tight clutter and can’t wait for some outdoor shots too.
I like the idea of the sloping road , gives it a point of difference.
cheers
Dave
djdutch
June 2013 edited June 2013
it all comes nicely together ,vegetation clutter dirt I follow along this lovely build
DJ
KKarns
June 2013
Dave, it is a good bit of “stuff” in a small area but I like the feel also. The road, and the dry wash in front, work to give the appearance of changes in elevation rather than a flat 8x8. I took your advise and shot an outdoor picture and what a big difference! I’ll get a series of pics in this setting as I head for the home stretch. Lots of small details yet to do.
DJ, Thanks for following and I should be wrapping things up on this one before long.
brownbr
June 2013
It looks REALLY good. The extra effort on the castings and scenery is paying off. I like the way you roughed up the big rusty wheel on the side. Looks like someone was target shooting your trash barrel.
Karl.A
June 2013
I took your advise and shot an outdoor picture
Wow!!
Karl.A
KKarns
July 2013
Bryan, hate busting up any of Brett’s wonderful castings but I just had to do it! That barreI has great detail with the “bullet” holes and all…its amazing how one small little casting of Brett’s, when rusted up, can make such a difference in a mini scene! It’s what gets us hooked.
Karl, I was amazed at how much better the pictures look in natural outdoor lighting. Gettin there… with a few more details to go like mount the rail, mount the tank spout and support pieces and round out the small details. Thanks so much for your Dirt, Details, and Dioramas build thread as I referred to your recommendations and great pictures constantly as I planned and built my diorama.
ironmountainlumber
July 2013
Awesome!! The outside picture really shows off the amount of work and detail you have done. The colors really look amazing and vibrant in the natural light. If you have time i am sure many of us would really enjoy seeing more pictures of the build in natural light . Good luck in the contest when you go.
Jim
KKarns
July 2013
Hi Jim, Nice to hear from you. Thanks for the encouragement. I want to get some more details done before posting anymore pics as I don’t want to get redundant on the views.
The issue of the taking this to the Expo is like going to a car show without a car. You would have fun but taking something to show makes it that much more special. Show worthy or not isn’t my reason for going, it’s to be a part of the festivities and “hob-nob” with the group and meet some great people. Should be a blast!
Karl.A
July 2013
It’s definitely show worthy Ken, more than that… it’s ‘win’ worthy.
Karl.A
KKarns
July 2013
Karl, with that comment…I already have! Am having a ball detailing the diorama. So glad you scolded me regarding the stumps…the “side yard” really turned out nice as a result. Just finished the loosely coiled hose from the tank pipe valve, much fiddling to get it to lay and look right. Think I got it though. Pictures will follow soon.
KKarns
July 2013
Hope nobody got the wrong idea with the above comment! What I mean is that if Karl and you guys feel its a good build and worthy of putting on the table…then I feel I have already won in my mind regardless of how it pans out. Havin fun’s the name of the game…and I have that down pat!
Karl.A
July 2013
Nobody got the wrong idea, they all just misplaced their keyboards.
Fun is definitely what it is all about.
Karl.A
KKarns
July 2013
Karl, whew! I appreciate the conformation that you feel it came across the way it was meant. Nice shot of you at your “work bench” it might be just me but I didn’t notice any serious work going on…
Karl.A
July 2013
Its a secret project… 8x8…
djdutch
July 2013
hey KKarns, that outdoor picture is nice, the colors speak much more than the inside pictures. and I like to do the same build as I finished my hot rod shop
DJ
KKarns
July 2013
Karl, sweet…make sure you add a 1/2 inch thick border around your dio…I won’t say anything…
DJ, the outdoors picture is the way to go. I’m closing in on being done with this thing. Make sure you post your build and will love seeing another Backwoods tank build. I’m really enjoying this one.
Joel
July 2013
It’s beautiful. Lovely work and details.
KKarns
July 2013
Hi Joel, Thanks for the comment. I am finishing up the small, yet important, minor details and have the spout to mount yet then I’m calling it finished. Great to hear you’ll be at the Expo. This will be my first so I’m looking forward to learning the ropes.
KKarns
July 2013
For all practical purposes I have finished the Backwoods Water Tank and Storage Shed build and diorama. Pictures of the completed diorama will be forthcoming with the next good outside photo weather.
Pictured here are a few shots of the spout mounting procedure I used that deviates a bit from the “workbook”. I wanted to make sure the spout was securely mounted to the pump house decking. I drilled a small hole in the spout casting and expoxied an .025" styrene rod in the hole (see pic). I drilled the same size hole in the deck beam. I wanted to avoid any undue torque on the spout once it was secured so I pre-mounted the chain for the counterweights to the spout casting. The styrene rod was coated with epoxy and a small bit on the spout flange where it contacts the deck beam and slipped it into the hole. I used a scrap piece of strip wood to brace the spout where I wanted it. The remainder of the spout mounting went without incident!
Karl.A
July 2013
beautiful modeling ken, a real pleasure to look at . also taking time looking at all the different areas of the pictures shows the depth and skill displayed. nice job indeed.
Karl.A
admin
July 2013
Wonderful! Terrific job of blending and creating a very natural scene. Can’t wait to see it in person…
Joel
July 2013
It all came together perfectly. I hope to see it at the Expo this year.
KKarns
July 2013
Karl, appreciate the comments and really looking forward to getting the final shots posted. Weather has been ridiculous here lately and I just have to get my empty oil barrel full of “oil” for the photo op. What advise here on simulating a barrel full of “oil” was thinking of Realistic Water and mix in some Poly Oily Black?
Brett, my e-mail request to you illustrates what I think of this kit of yours! I loved your comment of the location and timing of the Expo and your alternate plans. Also, would like your take on the barrel full of oil issue…
Joel, does feel good to have completed my first diorama, good, bad, or indifferent, you can count on it being there and can’t wait to meet everyone.
ironmountainlumber
July 2013
Hi Ken,
GREAT JOB on the diorama. You shouldn’t say (good bad or indifferent)! This was a fantastic build. This is not just “winable” in a contest but in my opinion a winner in everyway. I learned alot from your comments during the build and everyones input and it is finished! I certainly would be very proud of building a beautiful model that you did.
Wish I could see this in person. Maybe some day…
Jim
KKarns
July 2013
Hey Jim, Thanks so much and nice to hear from you. I’ll tell ya, everyones comments and camaraderie on this forum is where it’s at. I’m humbled by all the stellar work thats evident and am thrilled to be a part of this group. No chance you’ll be able to make the Expo Jim? I’m sure they’ll have some type of video documentation of the show. As I mentioned more final pics coming as soon as I get “oil in my barrel” and the weather gets decent! Later, Jim…
ironmountainlumber
July 2013
Hi Ken,
I would really like to come to the show but unfortunately my job won’t allow me to leave. I am hoping I will get to come in the future. Hopefully, we will have lots of pictures from the show on the forum. It is still not being there but for now it will have to do.
Jim
KKarns
July 2013
Jim, hadn’t heard back from anyone regarding simulated oil for my oil barrel so I mixed up some Epoxy and a few drops of Polly Oily Black and put some in a syringe with a large bore needle and filled up my barrel. Seemed to work great but it’s not totally dry yet.
I’ll be taking a bunch of pictures at the Expo for you et.al.
Now just waiting for a good day to take some pictures and planning my next build…-K
ironmountainlumber
July 2013
I think the epoxy and the polly oil should look great. Really a great idea and icing on the cake. Thank you in advance for the pictures at the Expo. To let you know and you may already , once the polyscale and floquil colors are not available, lifecolor paints by tenscrom has a nice pack of simulated oil and other fuels that seem to be good and are used by military modelers ( a bit pricey though). I tried the oil color on one oil drum and was very happy with the color. I haven’t tried any of the ak interactive colors but have heard nice things about them. I haven’t found any vallejo oil colors yet. The vallejo acrylic colors are really nice and were used by Kevin O’neill and I believe Elliot as well ( I believe the colors Kevin used are archived here in the forum ). Just some ideas for the next build.
Jim
KKarns
July 2013
JIm, glad you brought up the paint issue, and sure it will be a hot topic here real soon, as I have been mulling that over. Great to hear your experience and insight. I stocked up on a few of the Floquil and Polly colors that I use most and the ones that Brett recommends for the bulk staining for most of the kits. Funny how we get used to certain trade color names and panic at the thought of them not being around…change is usually a good thing and so might this…we’ll see…-K
KKarns
July 2013
Here are the final pictures of the Backwoods Water Tank and Storage Shed. Hopefully not too redundant as there are a good number. Deciding on my next project…
Karl.A
July 2013
Superb !! Outstanding all around.
Late for work, type later.
Karl.A
davej
July 2013
magnificent!! looks so good you can almost smell it.
cheers
Dave
KKarns
July 2013
Dave, you crack me up!..that was good. Thanks for the aroma therapy and comment.
KKarns
July 2013
Karl, thanks for the note, look forward to any feed-back from you as always!
MikeM
July 2013
Great idea Dave–that should plug the only creative hole left in Brett’s product line!
Mike
ironmountainlumber
July 2013 edited July 2013
Superb, magnificent, and fantastic. I am really enjoying mulling over all the details and fine photography. I really like the oil filled barrel and the dirt and grunge under the workbenches and where people don’t walk. The rock walls under the tank and the attached shed walls were really well done. There is alot to take in, and aroma therapy, now that is an idea. Maybe the name should be the Magic of Sierrawest Scale Models.
Jim
KKarns
July 2013
Hey Jim, Thanks for the comments. Nice to have this one done, had a blast with it. I have put up a couple more final pictures with a better background and one I’ll use for the cover of a documentation volume I’m doing on this kit. I have the original sales receipt, color ad, all the bag labels, pictures of other builds, etc.. and will be assembling all this material into a 3-ring binder.
Next build…maybe Duluth? I purchased Brett’s re-offering and it has some techniques I haven’t tried as yet…we’ll see. Thanks for following along and enjoyed your assessments.
Ken
djdutch
July 2013
you get the first price for sure what a wonderfull model
great job
DJ
KKarns
July 2013
DJ, Thanks for the vote of confidence and appreciate your following along. -K
Karl.A
August 2013
A masterpiece Ken, you should really be extremely pleased with this accomplishment. Love the half buried wheel incidentally, great touch.
Your pictures display the work of a well seasoned and experienced modeler of many, many years.
The subtleties, the colours, depth of texture throughout, overall composition. Superb work all around.
Karl.A
KKarns
August 2013
Hi Karl, I deeply appreciate your critique and guidance you so willingly provide. I have learned so much from you, and others, since becoming a staunch “member” of this fraternity of modelers. All those who contribute to this forum provide insight and knowledge likely beyond what they realize. And how do we even begin to thank Brett for providing a means for all that is possible with SierraWest Scale Models.
davej
August 2013
Ken I just had another look at your final pics, they really are great it’s a beautiful model (if you can call dilapidation beautiful) . I think I’ll use some sort of multi level on my next build, I was going to with the machine shop but, stupidly started out on the flat plywood instead of a layer of foam.
cheers
Dave
KKarns
August 2013
Hi Dave, Thanks for the note. I wanted to give the surrounding landscape a bit of variety and character rather than just a flat dio. It gives the feel of being in hills or mountains without them actually being in the scene. It also gave me a chance to try modeling a road which I fell in love with on Karl’s dio in the Dirt, Details, and Dioramas thread. Your Machine Shop is awesome and you can certainly add contour when you incorporate your base into your overall layout (are you working it in to a layout?) Ken
admin
August 2013
that first pic is the money shot for sure bro!