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Logs from pipe

I built some logs for my logging wagon from ABS pipe.

First, I cut it to length. Then I applied adhesive to the outside, in lines parallel to the length of the pipe.

log-texture-closeup3

I smoothed the application with a toothpick–catching any drips.

log-texture-closeup2

I cut pieces of sintra to fit the ends, then inserted them. Then I filled the ends with adhesive.

log-end-closeup

Once it was all dry, I dipped them in outdoor paint–a dark slate, almost black color I have.

log-texture-closeup-painted2

Next I applied a dry brushing of lighter browns and then washed with a darker brown.

log-painted

Finally, I painted the ends light brown to represent fresh-cut wood and added some light brown spots along the “trunk” to simulate where branches were removed.

chain-binder-closeup

I think they look pretty good. We’ll have to see how they stand up outside.

logs-on-wagon2

Mountain Ideas

I’ve thought for a while now about adding a mountain (and tunnel) to my layout. The problem is, this is Germany (or Ruritania, or Graustark) in the 1930s, so a southwestern U.S.-style mountain won’t do. I need an alp.

My current idea is to make a frame of rebar, cover it with wire mesh, and then use concrete-impregnated burlap to cover it in a sort of concrete version of paper mache.

Scale Kudzu

Well, I think I’ve found at least one plant that I won’t be planting on my layout again: wirevine.


This stuff is amazingly tenacious and ridiculously invasive. I planted a single 3″ pot of it last fall, and it’s gone crazy. Not only did it cover the cleared area where I planted it, it jumped (over and under) a paver, climbed two dwarf Alberta spruce, became intertwined with two other ground covers, and keeps trying to cross the right of way despite regular applications of Roundup. And places where I’ve pulled it up, apparently roots and all, it’s come back. All in about 8 months.

But if there’s someone else out there who needs to model Kudzu, this is your stuff.

Building Repairs / Refreshes

So, in the Kansas climate (summers in the 100s, winters in the 10s) buildings really take a beating. It’s now time for me to bring some in (into the air conditioned house) and work on ones that have deteriorated.

My oldest building is this Piko station. I enjoyed building it–it’s one of the few “new” kits I bought, but it’s definitely in need of some work. The base is a piece of Sintra laminated to a piece of acrylic, which seemed like a good idea at the time but has started to separate. Also, the “street” lights need work and the interior needs to be cleaned out.

First I’ll tackle the lighting: the LEDs in it are cool white. And after three years they’ve started to dim. Which means that it’s time to trade them out for new, warm white ones. That includes the interior lights, the light that highlights the passenger and station employee, and the two exterior post lights.

Whistle Stop

Visited the model train store in Pasadena today. They had a good selection of G Scale trains and scratch building supplies. And the staff was friendly.

whistle-stop

Visited the Train Shack

Today I dropped by the Train Shack in Burbank. They have a pretty good selection of Piko  and LGB stuff–more G scale than I usually see in a LHS. Pretty cool place, though the prices are just average. They do have some running layouts in O and HO to watch–my son really liked those.

Burbank-train-shack

Waiting on Parts

I have a lot more to do, but am currently waiting on a list of parts.

For the sawmill/logging scene, I need wheels. I’m going to make some horse-drawn logging wagons, but need wheels.

For the windmill, I need the Pola motor. I ordered it, but it didn’t ship for a couple of days and I’m still impatiently waiting for it to arrive.

For the windmill scene, I ordered some Pressier figures. From Germany. So those will be a while coming.

So lots to do, but right now it’s hurry up and wait.

And Done

The Pola windmill is now complete. Lights added and the whole thing put together, here it is on the workbench.

pola-windmill-complete1  pola-windmill-complete2

I expect it to make a big impression on the layout.

All that’s left is to motorize the blades and it’ll be ready to go outside.