This thread was started in December 2022
brownbr
This is the story of Jerkwater, USA. An off-the-beaten-path filling station for thirsty coffeepot locos.
This build will incorporate the water tank/handcart repair shed. It may be alone, but I doubt it. I’m leaning towards cutting the size of the repair shed down to 12x12 and use a lean-to to cover the area between it and the tower. I’m also thinking of incorporating the wood cutter shack…the 6-pole shed as a cover for the handcar work area and the oil tank for fuel. The main structure of the wood cutter could be a sand drying house or the Jerkwater station. It also may not make it at all.
I still have a lot of planning to do as you can see, but I couldn’t wait to get started. So I got to work on some parts that will be in the build no matter what…the castings.
The stone base is assembled, painted and mostly weathered. I’m going to look at it for a while to make sure I like it. I can always change the paint job now, but will not be an option later. The close up shows a couple stones at the bottom left where I’m trying out adding lichen (very small light gray and orange spots above the moss) Also just primed the 3-d printed details…2 more and they wouldn’t have fit on my foam.
Ideas for the story and layout plan are welcome as always. Making them funny increases the chances of adding them.
Comments
Jim M
December 2022
Stone looks incredible, great job with it. Looking forward to watching this come to life.
Dave_S
December 2022
Bryan,
Thanks for that outline of your plan to incorporate the Water Tank and Handcar Maintenance Shed into a larger build/diorama. What a great plan outline. I really look forward to seeing how you further develop your concepts. Eventually this should make a great diorama.
Nice start on the plaster castings. In particular I admire your brick work.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
KKarns
December 2022
Great vision Bryan! Will be following along to see what you come up with. Great start and nice stone work.
MuddyCreekRR
December 2022
I really like the coloration of the stone…and I’m a fan of the moss and lichen…nature always makes a showing on a structure…and your ideas on a bash are kool too…watching your progress with interest…I’ve ground to a almost halt…trying to get in the shop this weekend…
Joel
December 2022
Bryan off to a great start. Always interested in seeing where you go with things. Sounds quite interesting and I will be following along to see what happens.
brownbr
December 2022
Thanks for the input. I’ve been toying around with a possible placement plan. Min space to do everything above is 12x18. At that size things will be a bit compressed so I’d likely go slightly bigger. I only did paper cutouts of the space needed so I think I’ll need 3-d mockups to get a real sense of the space required. I also think the taller structures like the tank/sand tower should go towards the middle. That complicates things a bit.
I’ll keep pressing on until I get a better sense of how it should look.
brownbr
December 2022
I’ve laid out the structure outlines here. It’s on a sheet that will fit inside a 12X18 acrylic box. For perspective, this is the area used for the Tractor repair shed diorama. I have the watertank near the center with the repair shed near the front with an unobstructed view inside. On the near side of the tracks are the woodcutter shack AKA the Jerkwater station and the oil tank platform. The block covering the tracks is the platform for the sand tower and the large block behind that is a sand storage and drying area. The 6 pole shed is peaking out from behind the stone base.
I’m also toying with switching sides of the sand storage and station.
There is room behind the repair shed for all of the clutter, handcars, etc. May also be able to squeeze in a tree in that back corner as long as the branches are placed right. I’d also like a cellar door at the base of the stone base.
I’m still thinking and extra 2" or so might be in order, but we’re getting somewhere now.
Joel
December 2022
Wow that will be one very busy scene. Looking forward to it.
kebmo
December 2022
same here. this is gonna be cool.
Jerry
December 2022
Interesting plan. Looking forward to the next step!
Jerry
TomMich
December 2022
Like your creative take on these structures. Lots going on in a small space. Looking forward to seeing how it comes along.
randyp
December 2022
Bryan, nice to see you are starting a new build already. I like the color of the stones on the water tank base. I am struggling with mine. I am looking forward to see how you fit all of this together. Randy
Karl.A
December 2022
This is going to great watching you evolve this scene Bryan and your ideas.
admin
December 2022
Concept is awesome, cannot wait to see where you go with this!
vietnamseabee
December 2022
Bryan…I enjoy following your thought process on builds almost as much as the actual build…lets do this
Terry
brownbr
December 2022
I appreciate everyone following along. Planning the diorama is one of the most fun parts for me Terry. Then be flexible enough to adjust as the build develops.
Some progress shots on the tank. I see some glue spots to clean up and some board ends to tend to but it’s coming along. I went with a brownish color for this to go with the gray stones. I also have a surprise in store for the tank in the next step.
randyp
December 2022
Looking good Bryan. Did you paint the roof? Randy
brownbr
December 2022
Thanks Randy. Just a primer before the shingles. I went with brown instead of black. The platform, tank and roof have not been glued together yet so I can keep working on them.
Karl.A
December 2022
Looks great Brian,
It sure looks like you are up there in the ‘high speed and high quality’ group.
I like the green algae, damp mold effect, subtle and very nice.
Edge of my seat waiting to see your next ideas and update.
Joel
December 2022
Looks great. I also like the greenish hues
EmeryJ
December 2022
Oh boy, oh boy… git after it Bryan. Love what you do with these.
brownbr
December 2022
Thanks guys.
The tank took its next step here…got a coat of ochre yellow. We must be thinking alike Art.
I did a paint peel after it dried. I think I scrubbed too hard over the Deer Creek stencil seen in pic 2. The close up does give a nice representation of the depth given by peeling the paint and also the rust texture on the bands. I added a couple of streaking lime/calcium deposits. I’ll keep working on these. Also went with smaller shingles on the roof and skipped the hatch, though I was thinking about adding an open hatch looking into some dead rats floating on the water.
Still 4 separate assemblies to continue working.
MuddyCreekRR
December 2022
That does give it a different and distinctive look…I see you did the same things with the shingles I did at the top…I used to do roofing…way back…and I hated doing victorians as they all had at least one roof like this…
CarlLaskey
December 2022
Looks good Bryan I like the roof…
admin
December 2022
Rustic, unique, FANTASTIC!
brownbr
December 2022
Muddy, the top row should be covered by the cap. If it looks bad after that, I’ll re-do them. I promise to start reading the directions one of these days.
I was planning on a roof brown accent color but after seeing Karl’s door I’m going with maroon. The station will match. Jerkwater may be a backwoods hick town, but the workers know how to color coordinate.
Wow Brett, a triple play.
KKarns
December 2022
unique spin on the traditional wood tank.
kebmo
December 2022
MuddyCreekRR said:
That does give it a different and distinctive look…I see you did the same things with the shingles I did at the top…I used to do roofing…way back…and I hated doing victorians as they all had at least one roof like this…
i did some roofing as a yoot too, and those peaks were a bitch.
kebmo
December 2022
the tank looks perfect.
TomMich
December 2022
Nice! The rust effects on the bands is great! I like the smaller shingles good choice.
sdrees
December 2022
The shingles turned out great Bryan
randyp
December 2022
Great colors on the shingles. Rust on the bands bleeding through the yellow paint looks just right Randy
Karl.A
December 2022
Nice progress Bryan, the shingle colour and texture looks great.
brownbr
December 2022
Thanks guys.
It’s about time to put the tank to the side for a moment. It’s decision time on the shed and whether to cut down its size. I’ve got a mockup sitting on the bench now and I believe I have it figured out. I’ll start staining/graining the siding while I work out the final details.
The finial covered the peak shingles nicely.
CarlLaskey
December 2022
Very nice Bryan I like the finial looks great. …Carl…
KKarns
December 2022
Nicely done Bryan! Lots of great color and it all blends together so well.
Joel
December 2022
Nice finial. Also really like the brick colours.
randyp
December 2022
It is looking great Bryan. Randy
TomMich
December 2022
Very nice Bryan!
MuddyCreekRR
December 2022
Looking great…diggin the tones…
brownbr
December 2022 edited December 2022
Thanks guys. One update to post before the festivities begin today.
It took a while to get up the nerve but I finally made the cut on the repair shed. It will be a small stand alone structure. I did the siding a gray barnwood look. Other alterations included adding a trap to the front and back walls…a fun trick I picked up from other builds. I’ll start working on the interior and exterior of the walls next while I decide on the roof material. I’m leaning towards tarpaper or corrugated.
A quick shot of the 2 structures disconnected here also. It’s got me wondering if I could pull off a tarp stretched between the two as a cover.
randyp
December 2022
Nice color Bryan. Looking forward to see how you put it all together. Randy
kebmo
December 2022 edited December 2022
randyp said:
Nice color Bryan. Looking forward to see how you put it all together. Randy
we know what ever it is you come up with will be interesting.
Jerry
December 2022
Great job Bryan. Nothing like a dead rat in the water!!
Jerry
KKarns
December 2022
look forward to seeing how this mod comes together. Nice wood work as usual!
Karl.A
December 2022
Looking great so far Bryan, really liking that wall colour in the last pic.
Can’t wait to see where this build goes next…
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks guys.
I threw together a little sand storage & drying facility. Copied from a long out of production kit from Sequoia. Just because.
EmeryJ
January 2023
Nice setup there Bryan. Excellent idea.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
Oh my…I started looking at a sanding facility too…I like the looks of yours…trying to keep the area not heavily mechanized as I will have a full loco facility a dozen or so scale mile away on the other side of the layout…but I am inspired…
KKarns
January 2023
Nice build Bryan!
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks Emery and Ken.
Art, it was a fairly straightforward build. I would have taken more shots but it’s still wet from dousing the sand. Didn’t want to mess it up. Like I say, its from plans from a discontinued kit. Too bad we don’t know anyone who specializes in backwoodsy logging and mining type kits. Maybe that person could put together a small loco shed with service facilities.
If you are looking for something more substantial, I think the Woodcutter Shack would make the foundation of a great sanding facility.
Later I’ll be adding a tower with a retractable platform to get the sand up. And I’m thinking for fuel it will be “pick yer poison”. There will be oil, wood and coal as options. May even throw in one of those cool new gas pumps for kicks.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
Don’t be surprised if I copy some of your stuff…ever so slightly…at least the ideas…
brownbr
January 2023
Feel free to copy as you see fit. I’ll send a pic of the plans if you like.
I put together a tower to load sand and maybe coal. This will get planted next to the water tower and is the same height. The ropes are to raise the buckets and to raise the platform. The platform is moveable because I wasn’t sure how I’d want it to look. I started to make the swing arm moveable also, but the bracket cracked so it got epoxied in place. .030 styrene for the metal bands with NBW and water-slide rivet decals. I think they turned out nice.
I think I’m going to build the walls of the station next. This will give me the chance to lay everything out and get a feel for the needed real estate. From there get back around to the water tank and start detailing it.
brownbr
January 2023
I think I have the backstory down now also:
For years the townsfolk of Leadville and Alma, CO have feuded over bragging rights to which town had the highest elevation with each claiming to be the 2-mile high city. Separated only by a few miles as the crow flies, its a 75 mile train ride to get around Mt Sherman. Situated at the halfway point, and in the shadows of Marmot Peak (no that is not a ferret) lies the sleepy whistle stop known as Jerkwater. Much to the townsfolk delight, it is situated at a higher elevation than Leadville and Alma. Thus began the town motto of “It’s all downhill from here”.
vietnamseabee
January 2023
Bryan…your backstorys are almost as entertaining as your modeling ;-))
Terry
kebmo
January 2023
vietnamseabee said:
Bryan…your backstorys are almost as entertaining as your modeling ;-))
Terry
i concur…
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks Terry and Kevin. It keeps me entertained.
I have one rolling around in my head about Shep Shelby and a waterfront Bluesky…
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
Thanks Bryan, I try to never copy anyone…what I kinda mean are concepts, seems like we are both doing a similar build of an area used for maintenance between 2 larger towns or facilities…so I’m watching where you go, and gaining ideas…I’m working next on my fueling and sanding area once I get the water tank and shed done…and I never thought of a name…but I have one now…and it will appear on the tiny whistle stop station which is coming soon. Like your metal bracing a lot…I’ve used heavy cardstock in the past…not a big fan of styrene…Keep up the fantastic work…
admin
January 2023
hah! My old friend Shep. There’s a dumb story about where I came up with Shep, maybe tell it on a future podcast… Bryan, your work is amazing!
randyp
January 2023
As Brett said “your work is amazing”. Randy
Robert.G
January 2023
Looks really nice !!!
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks guys.
Muddy, I tried out 2 different sizes of styrene .020 & .030. In person the .030 looks better, but in the pics it looks a bit oversized. Oh well. To get the bends around the end of the swing arm, I used a heat gun and slowly bent it. I don’t use this material often, but it worked for this project. Now that crooked angled piece on the swing arm is bothering me. Must have knocked it when I set it aside to dry.
On to the station, AKA the Woodcutter Shack. I have a few variations on this build. It will be board and batten construction with a partial interior. Not sure about roof type yet but the green tarpaper from the Chama station looks interesting. Hope to get a little bit done today then I’m traveling for work for the next 10 days.
KKarns
January 2023
Nifty little scratch build. Look forward to seeing it integrated into the work flow.
Karl.A
January 2023
Looking fantastic Bryan, the finish on the hoist is particularly nice.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
I have a supply of styrene…I will pull it out and try it out more…I like the cardstock as it colors well…bends easily, and I think the thickness is about right…and it glues to the wood with wood glue…but I’m going to play with the styrene too…I have some free time as I’m waiting for some paint, and glue to set up…
Karl.A
January 2023
I agree with you on the card Art. It can give a good solution sometimes.
EmeryJ
January 2023
Great ideas shared on this Bryan. Thanks for the tips. I always was curious how water slide decals would end up looking. Now I know. Perfect.
admin
January 2023
Fantastic additions, cannot wait to see more!
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
This is why this forum is so important…ideas shared…mistakes shared…and repaired…different ways to do detailing and weathering…it makes everyone a better modeler…
brownbr
January 2023
I agree Muddy. I’ve learned so much from the fine modelers here.
Last update for a couple weeks. I’ll be in FL for a while. Not a bad place to travel but the meeting schedule sucks. I’ll barely see the outside of a conference room.
The siding for the station is on. I considered doing the siding like Kevin O’Neill started on his last build because I liked that look. In the end I’m going with board and batten and will paint to match the water tank. I’m going to do the mineral spirit resist and will paint the battens and walls seperately so I can get a nice paint peel on the walls and then add the battens.
As mentioned earlier, there will be a partial interior and I’m going to cover the studs with some stiff cardstock (Muddy) then paint to give a finished look. Still undecided on roof.
brownbr
January 2023
By the way, the blue and green patches there are a test I’ve been doing to simulate an oil spill on water. I used this chameleon paint from Greenstuff. I don’t think it’s going to work. Looks too sparkly on my test water.
Jerry
January 2023
Wonderful work! And a great story to go with it.
Jerry
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
Ahhhh…cardstock as wallboard / plaster…I like that…I’ve done one with real plaster to simulate paster and lathe for a clinic…But…this info stored away for a future build…Like the tone on the walls…and the board and batten concept…Safe Travels and go visit the Mouse…raise my stock some…lol
Karl.A
January 2023
Peeled board & batten is going to look so good Bryan, great thinking.
KKarns
January 2023
Great start on the wood work Bryan.
EmeryJ
January 2023
Dont get too sleepy in those meetings. I will be looking for the updates buddy!
admin
January 2023
Love the color and perfect variation…
TomMich
January 2023
Wall coloration and variation is very nice.
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks guys. Started the peeling paint process today. Mineral spirit resist.
brownbr
January 2023
Made some more progress on the walls inside and out. The “plaster” is black construction paper with several coats of thick paint. Gives a nice texture. I have some ideas for weathering it.
brownbr
January 2023
Taking a peek through the door to figure out placement of things inside. I’m thinking a desk and chair, heater, pile of clutter would look right at home. Couple pictures on the wall, maybe the dirty outline of where a picture used to be and some water stains on the wall.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
I dig the look of the plaster walls…I am inspired…
EmeryJ
January 2023
Plaster walls are really cool. Another great idea sir!!
KKarns
January 2023
Great work Bryan and I agree on the nifty idea of plaster walls and your unique colors.
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks guys. It’s fun to try different things. I think this wall is good to go other than some window coverings. I dug into my wild west poster stash.
KKarns
January 2023
I’m with ya on the “trying new things”…love the posters and the split colored walls.
mikemettelka
January 2023
Plaster walls look great!
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks Ken and Mike.
All of the main structures have the walls up. I wanted to get to this point to start to play around with the layout of the dio. There are 2 options as I see it (other perspectives welcome). Total footprint is going to end up around 12x24 and the track will come in at an angle leaving more real estate for other stuff.
Option 1 is to have all of the service facilities on the far side of the track with the station on the near side. This placement makes some sense but the backside of the station is not as interesting, though it will make for a more interesting view from the backside of the dio.
Option 2 is to move the station next to the water tower with sand/fuel on the near side. Better view of the station from the front and will give more depth.
The oil tank that comes with the Woodcutter shack will go in the same location as the sand (no matter which side) as will a small bunker of coal, a cord or so of wood, and a gas pump…can’t have too many options when it comes to fuel in a place like Jerkwater, right?
The 6 pole open shed from Woodcutter will be a work area for the handcarts. Will either go between tank and workshed, or behind the workshed. I’d also like to add a tree or 2 in the background…perhaps with an abandoned vehicle overgrown with weeds/vines.
I think it’s time to circle back on the castings while I ponder this.
KKarns
January 2023
I like Option #1 with all the service facilities on the opposite side of the station. That’s the good thing about Brett’s kits…they look fantastic and extremely detailed from any side or angle!
TomMich
January 2023
I like the interior walls with the divided colors. To my eye it needs frames around the windows, and perhaps baseboard. Just a suggestion. Otherwise it looks good.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
That was my issue…having a side of the structure not visible and not wanting to not hide the details…
mikemettelka
January 2023
Trying not to hide a side on any of these has been driving me nuts trying to figure out how to place them on my soon to be layout too.
Karl.A
January 2023 edited January 2023
It’s definitely a dilemma, and yet, not a bad problem to have… the kits look great from every angle, so, you cant go wrong.
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks Ken. You have a good eye for placement.
Tom, I was considering framing the windows myself. This may push me over the edge, and I like the baseboard idea. The windows in question will have shades/curtains over them because I want to block the view coming in from that side…the front wall is not plastered.
Art/Mike/Karl. It is a dilemma but easier to deal with on a dio than a layout for sure.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
My layout is working to be mostly 2’ x 8’ sections along the walls…a recent decision is giving me some more space that will allow me to have a few more peninsulas…showing more details…The layout dilemmas should be a separate thread…I’m going to start one so as to not hijack Bryans thread…
randyp
January 2023
Bryan, I am going to agree with Ken. I like option one better. No matter which way you place then I am sure it will look fantastic. Randy
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks guys. Your input matters.
I got started on the wood castings.
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
Nice wood tones…I’m not all that good at making resin look like wood…brown wood more so…
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks Art. My method for wood castings is easy. I started using paints instead of chalks a few builds ago and I like the results. I’ll document the steps with the next round of wood castings, but it goes something like this:
Prime. let dry.
Paint a base color. I grab 3-5 light tan and gray acrylic colors. Let dry.
Paint a wash color. I grab 3-5 dark brown and gray enamel colors. Let dry.
Drybrush with base color…or at least with one of the colors above.
Drybrush with a very light gray.
Done, unless you want to do more like add stains, burns, rust streaks, etc.
KKarns
January 2023
Top notch detail work Bryan. Like the numbered parts bin.
brownbr
January 2023
Thanks Ken. Did you notice that there are more numbers than bins? I did…after I did it.
I’m working on the handcar and I’m going to paint it flesh color! What??? Here are the colors I used. I’m using a sponge to chip the paint. Started with shadow flesh then sponged on base flesh, dark gray, dark rust.
Next up will be to work on some dirt/grime deposits with enamels and pigments.
brownbr
January 2023
It’s all put together. I added both axles and full deck for now. May alter it later to match the scene in the instructions.
Jim M
January 2023
Fantastic job. Such a cool detail
randyp
January 2023
Nice work Bryan. That last picture looks really nice. Randy
Karl.A
January 2023
That looks fantastic Bryan.
sdrees
January 2023
Great looking Bryan
MuddyCreekRR
January 2023
I like those colors…your wood technique is similar to what I do…just fine brush in some grain…and dust light with my gray/grime chalk.
KKarns
January 2023
Excellent, wouldn’t have thought those colors would have “fleshed” out the results you achieved!
vietnamseabee
January 2023
Looks great, Bryan…thanks for the tutorial
Terry
brownbr
February 2023
I’m working on the metal castings now. Decided to go with less rust, more dust.
Joel
February 2023
Love the work on the details. The dust effect is very convincing.
MuddyCreekRR
February 2023
I like that concept…trying similar…some stuff with a bit of rust but mostly the indication it’s being used…slightly abused and left a bit dirty…I like the look…
Jim M
February 2023
Beautifully done.
Dave_S
February 2023
Bryan,
Please give us an idea of how you achieved this unique look.
Thanks, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks guys.
Dave, once again I am guilty of posting a final result without progress shots. I’ll do better on the next set. Remember I still have a box full of castings from the “station” kit.
It went something like this:
Prime with rattle can. Paint a solid base color with acrylic muted tones. Give a thin wash of enamel engine grime. Sponge on some acrylic rust spots with dark rust. This can be seen at the bottom of the blue/gray barrel in photo 1 and the solid gray barrel in photo 2. Scrapes can be added with fine brush or a brown marker with .005 tip.
Take several colors of enamel rust…track wash, dark crusty rust, light crusty rust, etc. Dab these on lightly with a small brush in areas for a rust accumulation like the bands on the blue/gray barrel…I should have blended this area better. Enamels can be worked for a long time.
Give a wash of dust effects..I used PLW Pacific Dust from Mig for this one.
Give a light gray drybrush and a final dab of dirty thinner (the stuff I use to clean my brushes with) to some of the tops of the barrels.
Done.
Dave_S
February 2023
Bryan,
Thanks for explaining your process.
Not to worry. Sometimes we get so excited about our results we just need to share them, NOW! Looking forward to some process shots next time around.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
Karl.A
February 2023
Terrific results again Bryan they all look fantastic.
Many thanks to you for taking the time to share your steps on how you got to that finish and your detailed explanation.
I’m sure many members/readers will get a great deal from your post.
admin
February 2023
The handcar is excellent. Love the weathering on everything you’ve presented here.
KKarns
February 2023
Well done on the details Bryan. I’m on the same methodology of less rust and more well used and worn appearance of my detail work. Rust has its place but is often overdone.
EmeryJ
February 2023
Great work as always Bryan. Agree that it is nice to see other variations being modeled. Thanks for sharing more of your wonderful creations!!
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks guys.
Here’s the 2nd wave of the metal details so no need to wait. We’ll follow these 5 pieces through the process. It should give a nice variation of painted vs bare metal surfaces.
The base coat was again muted colors. Yellow olive for the compressor, SW Bone with gray mixed in for the propane tank, gray with some metalic paints mixed in for the others. Then sponged on a thinned mix of lighter metalic on the tub and trashcans.
I started a chipping effect on the compressor using SW Grime. It’s a nice compliment to the olive. Then sponged on some dark rust on 3, and left 2 alone. The scratches down the side of the compressor came from a toothpick dipped in the paint and dragged along to make the scratches. When doing the chipping, start with a lighter color of the base color, follow with a dark gray and finally dark rust. It gives the chips depth.
Joel
February 2023
Love watching your process. The rust on the bottom of the trash cans is amazing
brownbr
February 2023
Thank Joel. I’ve certainly picked up a bunch of good ideas from you that I use now.
I’m working on the enamel rust now. 3-4 different colors give a nice mix with Track Wash being the base and the lighter colors used for blending. I use a small brush seen here. I use plenty of mineral spirits to thin the paints…even the washes. The glass on my workbench makes for a nice palette. I’ll put the rust where I think it will look good and work it in with the brush. These deposits will be workable for an hour or so and it is good to look at your work to find any harsh edges. These can be feathered out with a brush damp (not dripping wet) with mineral spirits.
I want a crusty and spotty underside to the tub. I’ll be interested to see what comes from this swirling application seen here.
brownbr
February 2023
The rust has dried to the touch, but you can still work it at this point if you want. Here’s a closeup of the compressor and a very close up of the tub. Crusty and rusty! Next will come dusty.
brownbr
February 2023
The final steps were to add a light wash of Pacific Dust and give a light drybrush/graphite rub.
The 5 pieces turned out decent. I want to work on the placement of the hose on the compressor but that’s minor. A couple things I liked are the different tones on the trashcans and the rust/crust/dust accumulation on the bottom of the tub. The propane tank looks better in person that in super close up, but that’s how it works sometimes.
Hope you found this of value. I’ve tried several different methods for painting castings and this is my favorite for now. But I’m always open to trying different methods.
There is 1 more collection of small castings plus the clear castings before this part of the build is done.
MuddyCreekRR
February 2023
Love the rust on the bottom of the tub, the look of “used” is on all of the parts…nicely done…
Joel
February 2023
Beautifully done!
KKarns
February 2023
Love the air hose routing. Rust on the tub is perfect.
TomMich
February 2023
Nice details! I agree a mix of detail weathering is more subtle. The handcar turned out really nice. I especially like how you added the most rusted areas where water would naturally have settled. Very nice! the color of the handcar works well also.
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks guys. I do like the way these details are turning out.
I started placing some inside the workshop. I ended up cutting the floor down in size to match the workshop. I’m considering elevating this slightly with a brick/stone makeshift foundation. These photos should help me find spots for some smaller details like tools and rags. Also to add some dirt/grime to areas of the floor. Can’t help but notice the big 'ol finger print on the stovepipe.
I’ll probably add the windows then move this to the side and work on the deck of the station and the 6-pole shed. At that point I can lay everything out and get a feel for how the scenery will flow. Once I get back to the workshop I’ll add a light and the roof…probably corrugated.
Also, a bunch of new peeps arrived this week so they will be fun to stage around as I play with the layout plan.
MuddyCreekRR
February 2023
Love the way it’s coming together…I made a choice to walk away for a bit from my build…to chill out a bit…hope to have some done tomorrow night…I did do a few things…just didn’t feel like posting here for a bit…
sdrees
February 2023
Great scene, love the stove and coffee pot. Very nice
Karl.A
February 2023 edited February 2023
Beautiful colouring, composition and finishes throughout Bryan.
Everything looks so natural and your own personal ‘touches’ add so much to your results, as they always do.
Jim M
February 2023
This is all really well done. Love it.
KKarns
February 2023
Great details and placement.
TomMich
February 2023
Great work on all the details!
Dave_S
February 2023
Bryan,
I especially like the location of the drill near the open shop door. It is a great new detail to get up front in the shop where it can be seen. Hopefully, the light above the drill will be operational to help highlight it even more.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks guys.
Dave, I used the light fixture so it is not functional. There will be overhead light for the interior. Either from a fixture hanging from ceiling or concealed behind the front wall.
I made the floor for the station and framed the windows. Went with a stained wood floor. I started adding window coverings but they seemed to take away more than they added. Trying out some detail placement here.
Dave_S
February 2023
Bryan,
Call me a sucker for details but that desk, chair and stove are great. Like the white plaster walls, the chair rail and wainscoting as well. I think I can see a peep or two that you mentioned earlier in this station sometime in the not to distant future.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks Dave. Something I’m struggling with now is how to place things inside the station and which way the doors should open to give the best view. More on this later I’m sure.
I finished up the desk and stove. There’s a cool little coal bucket in the Woodcutter Shack kit for the stove and a nice 2 drawer stand to give some interest to the back wall.
I’m adding a 2nd handcar, and I have a shop crane on a 10’ flat that I might try to incorporate.
randyp
February 2023
Nice looking stove and floor in the station Bryan I like your placement of the detail parts in the work shop. Glad to see you are making some changes to the handcar repair shed. I also plan to make a few myself. Randy
TomMich
February 2023
The addition of window trim and baseboard finish off the interior nicely. Interior details are very well done as are the handcars.
MuddyCreekRR
February 2023
Looking good…I really like that stove…I have one similar someplace in my stash…
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks guys. Muddy, that’s exactly where I found these items…in my stash. Just when you think “I have too much stash”, a need arises for that one piece.
TomMich
February 2023
You can never have too much of a stash of parts!
MuddyCreekRR
February 2023
I try to get stuff from here as I can afford to, and I’ve compiled a pretty good stash…have them all in plastic boxes…some painted…some not. I also never seem to use all of the details with each kit due to mods I need to make to fit it to my layout, so these too go in the boxes…
KKarns
February 2023
Very nice…wonderful details.
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks guys.
Now that all of the structures are assembled I can get a visual on how to proceed. For reference, the piece of paper is 25" X 15" and the yardstick cuts it off to 12".
This configuration shows the station on the near side of the tracks. The deck framing has an optional side addition on it for right now. Also in the shots is a custom firefighting train. I’m thinking about having the water tank in action filling up the tank car. As I look at these photos though it seems like I’m trying to fit 10lbs into a 5lb sack.
This configuration puts everything on the far side of the tracks with no train. Makes it look a bit less cluttered but I’m still not convinced it’s the way to go.
This configuration removes the station and adds the train back in. This is an interesting look. I want the station but I’m not opposed to turning this into 2 dioramas. I’m going to proceed with finishing the tank platform and workshop roof while I decide. Your thoughts are welcome.
Dave_S
February 2023
Bryan,
Decisions, decisions. What to do?
My thoughts. I think you are heading in the right direction. I would like to see your station oriented towards the viewer with the sanding station across the tracks from from the water tank.
Great to see your new diorama stand put to use as a staging platform.
Later, Dave S, Tucson, AZ
randyp
February 2023
Bryan, I like the station in the sceen. While I like the grouping with the station the near side to the track it would be a shame to not be able to see in through the open front door. I can not put my finger on it but you are right the arrangement with the station on the far side of the track apparies less crowded. However the the near side of the track is to bare. I don’t remember what the little shed in the back, by the tree, is for but maybe move it to the front of the track. Randy
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks Dave. The sand house looks good on the near side of the tracks but not the platform, so we have a new option here. I agree about the station on the far side of the tracks. Just looks better there.
Randy, the shed in the back is the 6 pole shed from the woodcutter shack kit. This is where the track will lead for the handcar to be worked on under this shed, which is why it is sitting back. Have not tried it up front but I’ll give it a try. You mentioned the bare spot on the front-left which is an area I’ve been thinking about also. My ideas have ranged from the elevated oil tank, a big pile of pallets and/or ties, a 2nd track to give the impression of a siding, or low/overgrown vegetation.
These are great ideas, keep them coming. This is why I posed the question because everyone here is very creative. I’ve now confirmed the footprint needed and I have some time to play around with the placements.
I’ll move back to finishing the tank and shed while I ponder this.
I’ve also decided that if the station stays here, it will get shingles to match the water tower and if it gets its own diorama, I’m leaning towards get green tarpaper.
MuddyCreekRR
February 2023
I have rearranged in both my mind and on the foam my module…and I still can’t decide yet…I need to glu it down so I can start lansdcaping and detailing…soon I hope… I kinda like the version with the station on the close side and I also like the cluttered idea of the structures…in reality, they usually were crammed into the available space…Looking Good…you’ve inspired me to get back to work on mine…
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks Art. Glad to hear you are back at it.
brownbr
February 2023
Mulling over roof options. There will be 2 shake and 2 tarpaper roofs. Kind of think metal would be good on the workshop.
randyp
February 2023
Bryan, One weathered I would prefer the standing seam rofing. Randy
KKarns
February 2023
Tough one…they both look the part. If the structure was large I’d say the standing seam. However, smaller structure here so both look great.
Karl.A
February 2023 edited February 2023
Looking great Bryan,
I like the standing seam but the ribs look to close together, it throws off the whole look for me. 50% more or twice as far apart on the seams and I’d love it,
but, out of those two options I’d have to go with the corrugated. But that’s just my opinion. Personally, I think I’d shingle it.
Everything is coming together so well on this and the variations are playing out nicely.
Great stuff.
brownbr
February 2023
Thanks for the input. Who knew that this would be such a tough decision? It all looked so clear in my head when I decided to add the other structures and whack this one in half.
MuddyCreekRR
February 2023
I’m a fan of the shingles too…I just like the softer look…I’m using corrugated on my lean to shed…and tarpaper on a few other sheds…
mikemettelka
February 2023
I agree that the spacing on the standing seam roof is off and would need to be adjusted.
Jim M
February 2023
I like the corrugated roofing look much better in this instance.
brownbr
March 2023
All good ideas to consider.
The station is going to be next for a roof though. The interior is in place as is a light so on to the roof. Shake shingle to match the water tower.
I kept the doors open wide to give a nice wide view of the interior details. Bigger details that are easy to see with just a few smaller details for interest. The open doors also act as a view block to focus attention. I should probably add some hint at hinges on the inside of the door frame.
Dave_S
March 2023
Bryan.
Many neat little details to see in the interior of the depot. The one that jumped out at me was the empty soda bottle on the desk top.
Later, Dave S. Tucson, AZ
KKarns
March 2023
Love the views from ground level through the open doors!
TomMich
March 2023
Nice interior detailing!
brownbr
March 2023
Dave, these clear 3D parts are wonderful details. Can be empty, full, or anywhere in between.
Ken and Tom, thanks and this is why its so hard to put the doors facing away from the front of the diorama. Such a wide opening to draw the viewer in.
brownbr
March 2023
Continuing on with the station, I couldn’t help but add signs to tell the story of location.
KKarns
March 2023
lol…nice touch!
TomMich
March 2023
Nice signs!
MuddyCreekRR
March 2023
Really nice…I dig the signs…
randyp
March 2023
Bryan, very nice interior views, I see you also found some of those O scale brick for under the stove. Great touch. Randy
brownbr
March 2023
Signs were fun and they make me smile. Reason enough.
Randy, I picked up those bricks years ago. A few have made it into several dioramas. Most notably into O’Neills where I built a round foundation for a donkey powered crane.
brownbr
March 2023
My repair shed sprouted a wing!
Actually, I was not as happy as I wanted to be with the smaller workshed and I liked Randy’s free standing shed so much that I decided to add on. I put the small shed on brick footers and 6x6 to raise it enough to make room for a traveling hoist. I think the wood blended in OK. I kept the new side wall open to see the stonework on the tower.
Now I just need to coax that last bit of chain down into the block.
TomMich
March 2023
Great addition!
KKarns
March 2023
Well done and love the dark wood color.
randyp
March 2023
Bryan, Great job on the shed extension. The wood color looks to be an exact match to the rest of the shed. I really like the sloped corners on the extension’s doors. They add a lot more interest than my square doors. The brick footers look really nice. They add another vertical component to the build along with the water tank. I also like the open feel to the work bay. Love the hoist. Great addition. Randy
MuddyCreekRR
March 2023
Unreal…I dig the concept…
brownbr
March 2023
Thanks guys.
Randy, something just a bit different was the idea on the angled corners. While prepping for the floor, I did realize yesterday that I made it bigger than expected. Instead of building the framing for the outer corners into the header, I added the length of the corners to the header making it about 1/2" longer than expected. Oh well. Room for another workbench I suppose.
brownbr
March 2023
In my quest to make everything just a little bit harder than it needs to be, I will sink the rails to make the head flush with the floor. Seen here in the test fit stage.
Mountaingoat
March 2023
Love the modifications. Turning this into truly a one of a kind phenomenal diorama.
Joel
March 2023
Love watching your process. You seem to be having so much fun with it. Very entertaining and some great modeling.
brownbr
March 2023
Thanks Rick.
Yes Joel, I’ve been having a lot of fun with this one. Making major modifications makes me appreciate more the amount of design work that goes into one of these kits. Every time I change 1 thing, it creates 2 more challenges to overcome.
Couple more pieces to the puzzle here. A sand drying stove and beginning work on the work shed roof. Decided to go back to shingles on this one. Mostly because I started to shingle the roof of the station and didn’t like the look so it will get a different treatment…I’m thinking asphalt shingles right now.
I used the roof underlay from the kit as a template to build a new underlay using some scrap siding. The kit underlay no longer fit after earlier modification. See challenge above. It is made from wood that had deep white grain in it that I didn’t want to use as siding. I gave it a more distressed look than the water tower with missing shingles, tarpaper and metal patches. I’ll add the hatches once the 2nd side is complete then give both some moss treatments.
In case you are wondering why I am moving between structures like a skeeter with ADHD, I’m taking planning advice from my friend Hap and is dog Hazard seen here diabolically planning my next move.
KKarns
March 2023
Sand drying stove…who would of thought! Looks awesome. That is going to be one nice roof with tons of visual interest!
brownbr
March 2023
thanks Ken.
The roof has been shingled, mossed and installed. Still need to add the hatches and work on the stovepipe a bit.
Joel
March 2023
Great roof. It does make me wonder why the siding has not weathered a bit more though as the roof is fantastically grungy.
KKarns
March 2023
You’ve got the mossy roof technique down solid Bryan. Nicely done.
brownbr
March 2023
Thanks Ken. I’m enjoying the moss additions.
Joel, what I find interesting is that the siding and roof were done with the same colors. I think it is a combination of the light angle and moss that have really changed they way the colors are seen. That being said, you are right about needing to revisit the walls as they received modest post-coloring weathering.
JenS
March 2023
Bryan, would you share your moss technique. I assume its green ground foam and a slimy green wash? A little close up would also help.
MuddyCreekRR
March 2023
The roof does look really good…a wee bit of green on the walls would look nice…
brownbr
March 2023
I think nastiness would be called for here Bret/Art.
Jens, yes for the moss. I use a buff colored ground foam. Put spots of undiluted PVA where I want it then sprinkle foam. Let dry and brush/blow off excess. Paint as you like. I used dark slimy green then added light slimy green to some and let the paint blend. I also put some slimy dark paint on the bottoms of most shingles then washed it off with thinner to leave just a hint of green. Once this dried, I drybrushed a few clumps with the red that I’ve been using as trim on the water tank. I also splattered diluted green/gray paint randomly over the shingles by flicking a brush with a toothpick.
JenS
March 2023
Thanks for the explanation. So many steps for “just” a mossy roof. I will give it a try on the roof of my watertower.
MuddyCreekRR
March 2023 edited March 2023
Nastiness eh…I like that term…i was also looking at some lichen on some rocks today…a slightly grey green color…I’ve done some slight “greening” down low on some walls to show a hint of dampness…I’m looking forward to your application of nastiness…
brownbr
March 2023
Rick, looking around nature for inspiration is a big help. The closer you look the more things you will find. For the lichen you describe, my go to colors have been from Model Color: 70-971 Green Gray and 70-805 German Orange.
admin
March 2023
Absolutely love the roof, looks perfect. Agreed, the walls need to be nastied up a bit!
Karl.A
March 2023 edited March 2023
Fantastic looking roof Bryan, definitely one of your specialties.
(along with your many others.)
brownbr
March 2023
Jens, no more steps in doing the roof than you have done to the siding of your truck repair. All worth it in the end.
Thanks Brett and Karl.
I was browsing for some reference pics to help with the nastiness and ran across this. It is from the Coggeshall Farm in Bristol, RI. I encourage you to search the site. It has several interesting pics on there. I was stuck by how much this looked like the repairshed I’m working on from the shape, wood color, and roof. I swear I didn’t find this until now but it sure looks like I tried to copy it.
Karl.A
March 2023 edited March 2023
Thats a great pic Brian, it looks almost as good as your model, but not quite.
I wonder if that brick chimney is for a small forge for minor blacksmithing in that open area, maybe horse shoeing etc, I also see a stone grinding wheel in there and a walk behind plough.
I’ll have to check out the site for maybe the answer, and some ideas…
Thanks for sharing.
randyp
March 2023
Karl, also looks like a wagon, wheelbarrow, and stacked fire wood. Brett some more details to add. Great moss on the roof Bryan. Randy
KKarns
March 2023
Nice pic. Real moss roof has nothing on you!
brownbr
March 2023
Thanks guys. The structure was listed as their cart shed/work shop.
I’m toying around with an idea to have running water. I won’t be able to decide until the structures are planted so I can get a feel for the overall look. I did a practice piece here which is just stuck in the end of the spout.
vietnamseabee
March 2023
Nicely done!!!
Terry
mikemettelka
March 2023
That looks really good!
TomMich
March 2023
Very nice!
brownbr
March 2023
Thanks guys. Hope it works out that I can keep this 'cause I’m liking it.
Got the roof on the station and added some seating. Roof is asphalt shingles. They were distressed then painted and very fine sand sprinkled into the wet paint for texture. A patch was added for interest along with some moss in between rows of shingles to match the cedar roofs.
ALCO
March 2023
As I was scrolling down, I saw a mention of “running water”. My reaction was “My God! What now?” Just yesterday, I was wondering who might invent diorama smell-o-vision to go with the increasing usage of lighting!!! You can’t have a dio with a gas pump without the smell of gas, can you?
Karl.A
March 2023 edited March 2023
ALCO said:
I was wondering who might invent diorama smell-o-vision to go with the increasing usage of lighting!!!
I had a pine air-freshener under my sawmill if that counts… 
brownbr
March 2023
Smell-o-vision. I love it! Gas, smoke, wet dog. All sound fantastic.
Yes Karl, that counts.
Karl.A
March 2023 edited March 2023
For the sawmill I was planning on having the ‘sawmill’ sound module built into the base and a couple of the pine air fresheners close by… full emersion.
For my O Shelbys I was planning on the ‘ocean’ sound module with seagulls, etc built in. I was also going to open a couple of cans of Tuna and hide them under the display table… haha.
Big ideas, and yet, years later, neither builds are 100% complete.
We are all however looking forward to you bringing this one to completion, as you always do, and admiring your finished pics.
MuddyCreekRR
March 2023
I actually light up the Disney Candle Company "Rome Burning " from the Geosphere in EPCOT when working on the layout or modeling…smells like coal burning…I also have those big bags of balsam chips you can buy up in Maine…
KKarns
April 2023
Sweet detail Bryan!
brownbr
April 2023
I plan on having a small wooded area in the back corner. Room enough for 2-3 decent sized trees and a bunch of saplings, bushes, etc. The first tree is done. Wire frame covered with modeling paste then ground leaves for texture. Painted and flocked. This tree stands 10" tall. The trunk is 5/8" at the ground and 3/8" winding up to the branches.
The other trees are in various states of completion right now. I’ll post more on the construction process soon.
TomMich
April 2023
Amazing!
Jim M
April 2023
Great job
admin
April 2023
trees look awesome!
brownbr
April 2023 edited April 2023
Thanks guys.
I made these with 26g floral wire like you get at the hobby store. I put 2 screws about 24" apart and start unwinding it so I now have a big loop 24" across. Cut the loop in half and each half is a tree.
After you get the basic wire frame done, check the silhouette. I didn’t like the height of this one so I cut the top 2 branches off. They are now small trees or can be added back to this tree lower on the trunk.
Once the shape is right, start bending the branches in place. I use some very small plyers to get lots of bends in each branch…don’t want a long straight branch.
Edit: top pic is the cut tree.
brownbr
April 2023
Last post on trees for now:
How to take 3 wires and make 15 branch tips…
Start with 3 wires:
Bend the long single wire back on the branch and put 6-10 twists in it to create a loop. Leave some extra at the branch end and wrap it around the branch 2-3 times, wrapping towards the trunk. Cut the loop as seen here.
Bend the long side of the cut loop back on to the twists made earlier. Leave a bit at the end. Twist another loop and twist the 2 loose ends together. Cut the loop.
Take the 2 remaining strands and repeat the process above. You will have 2 loops, and 2 loose ends. Cut loops, repeat, cut loops. You have 15 branch tips.
Robert.G
April 2023
Nice work !
MuddyCreekRR
April 2023 edited April 2023
I have 5 spools of the wire sitting there…waiting…but then again… I have a lot of stuff just sitting there…waiting…I need to try this too…Thanks for sharing the technique…
ALCO
April 2023
A person could make a lot of money with this “side hustle”…
JenS
April 2023
Selfmade wire trees look so much more realistic. Keep on doing your good work.
kebmo
April 2023
bryan,
what is modeling paste exactly?
brownbr
April 2023 edited April 2023
Modeling paste is a gooey concoction that retains some flexibility when dry. I’ve tried it and fiber paste. The fiber paste is easy to apply on the trunk but the modeling paste dilutes easier with water for getting the smaller branches. If I only had 1, it would be the modeling paste. the goal with this stuff is to add some heft to the trunk and hide the twists.
Once the paste is applied, I add fine branch tips. I cut pieces off a natural rope about 1/8" long, put glue on the branch tips and sprinkled the pieces on. Then brushed glue on the entire tree for the bark texture which is dried leaves run through a coffee grinder. Take time to cover any remaining wire twists and the undersides of the branches, or at least as many as you can. Starting at the top makes it easier.
The tree has been pruned since the previous post. I like to look at the silhouette a while before deciding on the final shape. I removed 2 of the upper branches here and added 1 of them lower on the tree by poking a hole and glueing it in place. The other branch became a small tree. The top has been broken off. I gave the trunk a similar movement as the previous tree and plan on planting them close together so the foliage blends together.
Next up: painting.
Helpful tip: As I work on the trees, they are screwed into that piece of wood using a drywall screw. The hole made in the bottom of the tree from the screw is useful later to epoxy a skewer into to serve as an anchor in the foam base.
admin
April 2023
Thanks for the awesome tutorial. Makes me want to make some trees!
ALCO
April 2023
Very interesting about the branch tips and how they’re added. Seems to make a big difference!
kebmo
April 2023
i’ve made wire trees before and used white glue and sawdust for texture. it’s another option that works pretty well, but not for a foreground tree. thanks for the picture of the modeling paste.
do you think this one would work?
brownbr
April 2023
Thanks guys.
Kevin, that paste should do just fine. All it is doing is adding bulk to the trunk and hiding the wire twists. You can make a foreground tree with glue and sawdust. I’m using glue and ground up leaves…may as well be the same thing.
I think the key to realism is coloring, just like we do with our stripwood or castings. I’ll get some closeups soon but I start with a dark brown spray paint. Give a couple different colors of light brushing…heavier than drybrushing. I used mudstone, barnwood, and dove gray. Add a wash of burnt umber to tone these colors down and blot in a darker gray (dark elf skin) while the wash is still dry. Repeat as many steps as you like. On the first completed tree there was an additional drybrush with dove gray and a wash of IA. Add some moss and slimy green accents then on to the needles.
brownbr
April 2023
Painted then let dry overnight. Brush glue onto the branch tips then flock with static grass applicator. I used primarily dark green 4mm flock. Added a pinch of light green and bright green for variation. Don’t spray with adhesive, you will get flock where you don’t want it. More can be added later if you like, but I like the open branch look myself. Once the glue is dry, I’ll drybrush the needle tips with a yellow olive and call this tree done.
At this point I need to prepare the base, finalize the placement of structures and trees. This may be all I need, but may need another one depending on the space. I did go ahead and flock some saplings also. 2 of them are from branches that were pruned from this tree and the rest made from trimming the root wires. The top and right side were pruned to provide space for the foliage from the first tree. Their tops should blend together nicely.
MuddyCreekRR
April 2023
Excellent tutorial…I need to try some of these…after I get back to the water tank and shed…lol
brownbr
April 2023
Hope you do try some. Would be interested to see how others do it. I’m always looking f or new ideas.
Test fitting the trees here.
kebmo
April 2023
the trees look great! can’t wait to see 'em in context.
Karl.A
April 2023
Looking great Bryan, I need to get back to some tree making myself, yours look really good. I can just never seem to get in the mood for trees anymore, but after seeing yours and Roberts it’s something I need to start doing while watching TV and wasting time.
Great step by step. Thanks for sharing.
Robert.G
April 2023
Trees on a diorama are allways a nice addition. Great work !!
Joel
April 2023
Great tutorial. Thanks!
brownbr
April 2023
Thanks guys. Have the remaining ones on the bench near completion.
Robert’s are still the gold standard.
mikemettelka
April 2023
Looks to be similar to Boomer dioramas trees, he’s got some great tutorials over on youtube
brownbr
April 2023
That’s quite a compliment Mike. I made these based on his videos.
brownbr
May 2023
Been some slow progress lately. Every time I turn around there’s something else to do outside. That time of year I suppose.
The tree grove is looking about done. I’m going to have it on a little knoll. I also played around with a fallen tree. I kind of like it so I’ll try to find a spot for it.
The display cover arrived so I put together the frame for the base. Used 1x2, routed a ridge to hold cover in place then cut to size and have them glued together here. I’ll cut the foam to fit snug inside and run a bead of glue all the way around which will make it all 1 solid piece. The foam will sit flush with the top of the frame. First I’ll secure the track and file it down to the edge as the track will come in at an angle and it’s easier to file before installing inside the frame.
Karl.A
May 2023
Good progress Bryan, always nice to see good tight 45s on the frame.
JenS
May 2023
Hi Bryan,
Great to see some more progress of your work. I’m really excited what you are doing next.
brownbr
May 2023
A mundane step here but thought it was worth sharing. I cut the foam base to fit inside the frame and created the space for the electronics under the base. There will be 1/2" clearance under the base but I need a bit more to add a 9V battery holder. I marked a square on the base and cut it out. The corner mark is to make sure I return it in the correct orientation. I sliced the cutout in half like a slice of bread then glued the piece back in place. I like Aleens tacky glue for foam though it does take a while to dry.
Robert.G
May 2023
A good presentation of the diorama only makes it even better. !!
Dave_S
May 2023 edited May 2023
Bryan,
I keep coming back to this photo trying to imagine the steps you used to create the stump of the fallen tree.
I think I have an idea of how to do it but I would like to read about the method you used.
As always, Thanks for sharing your creative builds and methods.
Later, Dave S., Tucson, AZ
brownbr
May 2023
Dave, the tree was made using the same wire method as the other trees. The dirt clinging to the roots started as light weight spackling that was painted dark brown. Apply full strength white glue with a brush evenly to dirt then sprinkle with real dirt. After dry, stipple some more glue in patches and add more dirt. When dry, soak in diluted glue which I think was about 50/50.
brownbr
May 2023
I got a base coat of paint on and put down ties. The set of ties leading through the floor of the workshop will transport handcars to the 6-pole shed which will be a 2nd work area. Once the glue dries, I can grain and stain the ties, put down ballast and lay rail.
Karl.A
May 2023
Looking good Bryan, it’s a great stage when the vision in our heads starts to become reality.
Obviously we (well I) usually need to adapt things to make them work, but thats just part of the journey,
I’m looking forward to following along with the rest of your journey on this build.
Robert.G
May 2023
So am I Karl, so am I… Nice project..
Dave_S
May 2023
Bryan,
Thanks for your response as to how you created the toppled tree stump. Informative explanation as always.
Later, Dave S.
Joel
May 2023
Can’t wait to see this come together. All the components look great so far.
kebmo
May 2023
i’m really enjoying this trip down the jerkwater rabbit hole.
brownbr
May 2023
Thanks guys for following along. Kevin, it really has been a rabbit hole project. And it keeps getting deeper.
The rail has been laid, the frame got a first coat of paint and the foam has been glued into position. Once dry, I’ll start placing structures. A cut out for the light switch can be seen in the corner shot and a small piece of plywood was glued in place underneath to give the circuit board and battery pack something to grab onto.
brownbr
May 2023
Test fitting of the structures with the addition of the Jerkwater volunteer fire department train at the filling station.
admin
May 2023
That’s fantastic! I really love the layout. So much to check out and “dive into”. Excellent job Bryan.
TomMich
May 2023
Very nice! There’s a lot packed into this small space. Can’t wait to see it after all the scenery and details are added.
Karl.A
May 2023
Thats a really interesting twist on the arrangement and placement Bryan.
I’m looking forward to seeing the scenes I know you are going to create here.
Robert.G
May 2023
Even now, one can say this will be an excellent diorama !!!
JenS
May 2023
Looping great, Bryan.
I also like your pipe shelf!!
brownbr
May 2023 edited May 2023
Thanks Brett, Robert, Jens.
Tom, it looks like a smaller space in these pics than in real life. The footprint turned out to be 23.5 X 16.5. It will be the biggest I have.
Karl, that’s a nice way to say I don’t follow directions.
Karl.A
May 2023 edited May 2023
It was also a nice way to say you have great imagination and I know you’ll be creating some wonderful scenes with it… 
KKarns
July 2023
Hey Bryan…most excellent my friend! Love your display shelving. Sweet piece of work.