The Modeler's Forum

Hello everyone. I wanted to start a thread to document my layout progress. I haven't taken real chronological photos of the work but I'll show what I have done and
try to start a trend of documenting the work I'm doing.

The room is about 18"x 24". I started working on the room about 3 years ago, I think I have a little more than 2 years on the actual layout. This is my first real attempt at building a layout, I've mostly done dioramas in the past.

My goal was to have a simple trackplan with a continuous loop. I added as many sidings as I could mostly so I can build and install all my favorite kits.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717163912-240271348.jpeg)
I created my trackplan by putting plywood on the benchwork and working out the sidings with blue tape. I tried to get measurements for any of the kits I had or planned on getting so I can work them in beforehand.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717163912-24028908.jpeg)
This was the room before I started any construction. It occupies the front half of my basement, the rear half has too many pipes to drywall the ceiling. I made the rear section my workshop.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717163912-240291045.jpeg)
I added a closet to house the water softener. I drywalled the ceiling and I installed many outlets in the ceiling, all my lighting is wired to plugs for ease of replacement down the road. The floor is Rust-Oleum Epoxy garage paint. I don't recall the technical term for this style of benchwork but I chose it because it was easy to assemble and install without any help.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717163912-240302282.jpeg)
The benchwork are basically 3 rectangles bolted together. I lifted them in place using a 2x4 cleat on the wall.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717163912-240311035.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164003-24032317.jpeg)
The first kit I built since returning to the hobby was FSM Fox Run Milling you can see in the background. The second kit was The Shipyard from SierraWest, I combined it with Foss Landing, also from SierraWest.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164003-240332365.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164003-24034369.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164055-24038340.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164055-24041676.jpeg)
The latest diorama I built was O'Neills Fabrication/Quincy Salvage from SierraWest. This is the area I plan to install it, I won't install any of the front dioramas permanently till I complete the rear section.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164141-24042285.jpeg)
The kit to the left is FSM Emporium Seafood. The pile driver is the old FSM original kit, I removed the "house" from it and scratchbuilt a corrugated metal roof covering similar to the new FSM Jewel Series Kit.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164141-24043858.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164141-2404478.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164141-240451914.jpeg)
I recently finished this mountain. I used cardboard strips and Woodland Scenics plaster wrap for the shell. Most of the trees are SuperTrees from Scenic Express. The bridge is from Micro-Engineering.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164141-240461760.jpeg)
The first structure permanently placed was Fox Run. I used Envirotex to make the little pond to the left.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-300717164200-240471001.jpeg)
My plan for the area to the right of Fox Run will be a densely populated town. I'm going to try to place as many structures as I can in this area.

I'm currently building some shallow background structures for the area behind the tracks up against the wall. I'll post an update as soon as I complete my first one.

Thanks for checking in.

-Steve

-Steve

Steve,

Wow, beautiful work and structures. The basement really finished off very well.  Great job all the way and I look forward to more of your work on the layout.

A plus!

Tom ;D

What a great start to your layout, look forward to more of it.

Great work on the layout.  I look forward to seeing your progress.

Very nice work Steve. I applaud your pledge to keep your plan simple, and your track-to-scenery ratio in balance.

Hey Steve,

Your bench work looks great and the scenery done to date looks very nice.  It is always good to have a place to put you models and dioramas as I have found out with my layout.  I will be following along.

Steve,
          Wow, this build is coming along very nicely indeed!  I can see the overall view of the layout as you install those great looking structures.  keep up the awesome work, the glue sniffing is paying off!  Thanx Thom...

I'm so jealous!  I'm still at the "unfinished basement" stage.


dave

Simply amazing
Eric Quebec city

Fantastic Steve.  I will be watching all your updates.

A simple plan is great.

Jim

Pictures look great. Thanks for sharing with us...


Alan

Looking fantastic. Steve!

Looking forward to your continued progress.

Cheers, Mark.

Steve,
Great job ! Did you treat the cement block walls with anything prior to the studs and drywall ? Nice layout room and neat structures too.  8)
Tommy

Wow.  Your layout looks wonderful so far.  Keep up the good work!


Jeff

Steve,
Your layout is going to look amazing when done. I would say it would rival The Franklin & South....Great work...
Loren...

Thanks everyone!

Tommy- I used some drylock and latex paint directly on the walls. I didn't stud and drywall the block walls. I added 1x2 strips only to support the background which I made from cheap Home Depot wood paneling. I used the smooth back as the front and painted it all a sky blue color.

Loren- Thanks for the compliment. George is a huge inspiration to me and the F&SM book is what got me into the hobby. I refer to his work often for ideas.

I completed the cardboard frame for my mountain today.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-310717222548-240762419.jpeg)
This mountain and the one in the back that's mostly complete are the only ones I will be constructing this way. I needed a hollow shell so I can get inside to fix derailments and clean the track. The rest of the layout will be stacked pieces of foam carved and covered with plaster.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-310717222526-240752449.jpeg)
The cardboard strips are held together with construction adhesive and clothes pins. Once everything dries I will start making the plaster shell using plaster gauze, probably tomorrow night.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-310717222525-24048881.jpeg)
I need to make a bunch of thin background structures for the rear of the layout near Fox Run. Last week I drew up a simple sketch and made this building. I bought a bunch of clapboard from George at the open house during the last expo. I used Tichy doors and windows, the billboard is Bar Mills.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-310717222525-24072620.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-310717222525-240731158.jpeg)
This is about the area it will sit. I will probably adjust the elevation a bit and make it sit up higher than the track. I have a few other buildings in mind for this area, none can be more than 4" deep.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-310717222525-240742034.jpeg)

Thanks for checking in.

-Steve

Roaring start Steve.....I'll be looking in also.  :)

Looking great. The mountains and the tunnel are very effective.  Jim

Steve,


Beautiful work. Everything is looking wonderful. Building your modules and incorporating them into the layout really makes the layout come alive quickly. You do beautiful work. I'll be watching your progress. Thanks for posting the pics. More please.


Frank / Erieman

Great stuff........

Let's see how old this crowd really is..........

Regarding the sign on the building for Buster Brown shoes...........

"I'm Buster Brown, I live in a shoe.......... This is my dog Tag, he lives there too.............."

Great modeling
Thanx
Bob

Quote from: bparrish on August 01, 2017, 02:14:46 PM
Great stuff........

Let's see how old this crowd really is..........

Regarding the sign on the building for Buster Brown shoes...........

"I'm Buster Brown, I live in a shoe.......... This is my dog Tag, he lives there too.............."

Great modeling
Thanx
Bob

When my parents could get me out of my cowboy boots, it was always into a pair of Buster Browns.  :)

Great work Steve.

Thanks for the great comments everyone.

I finished another building for the rear town area over the weekend. It's my first brick structure I've built in a very long time. The kit was from ITLA, it's the D.V Ross building. I picked up 2 kits from the expo last time and I decided to combine them. It was a very easy kit to assemble, all laser cut wood. I colored it using only Krylon orange/red auto primer, Krylon gray primer for the trim, Apple Barrel Khaki for the mortar, a couple washes of A&I followed by some chalk weathering. The whole kit only took me a few hours to assemble. I'll be checking out some more of their kits in the future.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-200817225828-243461308.jpeg)
I named the building after Frank Baker - Erieman on the forum. Thanks for the steam crane Frank.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-200817225828-24347573.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-200817225828-243481567.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-200817225828-24345730.jpeg)
It may sit behind the tracks in the rear section next to the last building I built. It's very shallow so it works well back there.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-200817225828-243431321.jpeg)
I need to finish a few more buildings for the back wall then I can start tying everything together and building forward.

I picked up a few RDA plastic kits I plan on kit bashing for this area as well.

Thanks for checking in.

-Steve

Good Morning Steve,


I was browsing your thread, not reading the captions. Then I noticed what appeared to be my name on the building, then I read the text.Thank you for naming the building after me. NICE.


You are doing a beautiful job on your layout. Keep up the great work.


Frank / Erieman

Nice looking latout coming together.  Fine looking structures!

Thanks guys.

I chipped away a bit at some of the background items in the rear of the layout over the last couple days. I was waiting for some rock molds to come from Bragdon so I can start making the mountain on the right front of the layout. The molds came in on Wednesday, they are really big with great detail.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211305-244221435.jpeg)
In the last post I showed my cardboard strip frame for the mountain. I covered in in woodland scenic plaster gauze, I thought I took a photo of that stage but I must not have. The technique is nothing new but I prefer the gauze over paper towels dipped in plaster. I think it's a bit cleaner though nothing to do with plaster is very clean.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211305-24492717.jpeg)
I cast all my rocks on a flat surface then I usually break a few and tie them together like a jigsaw puzzle. I use a heavy coating of plaster to "glue" them to the mountain frame. I'm using Hydrocal for all the rock castings. I bought 100 lbs of Hydrocal and 50 lbs of Ultracal. I found the Ultracal doesn't take coloring very well, it tends to get blotchy so I will add some brown paint to it and cover the whole mountain with it. The plaster gauze alone doesn't have much strength.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211305-244942113.jpeg)
I installed this bridge on the right rear area of the layout. It's a Campbell's Howe Truss Bridge. I built it a few months ago, they are great kits that can be bought for pretty cheap, I think I paid $20.00 for it. While I was mocking it in place I dropped it on the concrete floor and it broke in about 50 pieces. This photo is after I repaired the damage.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211305-244931636.jpeg)
This is a better photo of it's placement on the layout.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211357-244961897.jpeg)
I assembled this kit from Railway Design Associates. It's called Freeman Manufacturing Co. These are nice kits especially for the price. The stonework is very good and they assemble easily. I think this whole kit took me a few hours. I'm not a fan of pre-molded roofing but this kit will sit pretty far back from the front of the layout and it will have a whole town of craftsman kits in front of it so it won't be noticeable. I'm trying to make a conscious effort to shortcut some of the details if they won't be seen. I can really get bogged down with the small stuff and I'd like to get this layout done in my lifetime.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211358-24497445.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211358-2449828.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211358-244991801.jpeg)
I colored the kit using some pretty basic methods. I spray all the walls with gray automotive primer. After that dried overnight I added a wash of a dark slate gray craft paint thinned with water. I painted all the windows and doors with olive camouflage spray paint. The walls were drybrushed with off-white. The roof was painted with dark gray spray paint and dusted with chalks.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211358-245002107.jpeg)
This little shed came with the kit. I still need to add some details to the roof.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-080917211305-244952480.jpeg)
This will sit in the very back corner of the layout. I'm excited to work my way forward and build this town.

Thanks for checking in. I have some more rock castings setting right now. I'll add those over the weekend and start coloring the mountain.

-Steve

Steve,

Great job on the rock face and the RDA kit. RDA makes a nice looking structure and you've made it look "not plastic" if that makes sense. Weathering changes it all. Well done.

Tom ;D

The RDA kit looks great.  Especially the roof.  Doesn't look like plastic at all.

Jeff

Steve,
Great rock work.......coming along nicely...
Loren...

Hi Steve, I just happened to come across your layout by clicking on a photo googling something and basicly gave me a link on the forum showing all your builds, I consider that a bonus to me as all your work is simply amazing and quite enjoyable to read through. I tried to view your trackplan as I always enjoy following a modeler in direct relation to the plan , kinda hard to read it. I really like your style of benchwork, it is similar to mine with the deep benchwork. I look forward to all your updates. :)

Thanks everyone. I apologize for my slow updates I was busy with a few structure builds and not really working on the layout.

Thanks for the positive feedback Lynn.

I made some more progress on the layout this week. I got some color on the larger mountain and I started to finish out the corner area with the RDA kit.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215256-309481488.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215256-30983731.jpeg)
I still have 100s of trees to build. Maybe this weekend.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215256-309842150.jpeg)
I messed around with this building configuration a bit and settled on this for the corner area.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215256-309852044.jpeg)
I added the Campbells bridge and started the scenery around it. The stone wall will be a small waterfall.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215256-309862097.jpeg)
The billboard is Bar Mills and the water tower is Tichy.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215438-3098745.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215438-309881610.jpeg)

I'm not sure how much detail I will add to this area. It's set pretty far back and I plan on having many buildings in front of it.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215438-309891699.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-050418215438-3099014.jpeg)


Thanks for checking in. I plan on installing my Master Creations Minerva Casket in the area directly in front of this corner.

-Steve

I'm really impressed with the direction you're going. What did you use for color on the rock faces? I've tried many diffierent techniques and have always found the woodland scenic s were always the best consistent results. I take it you removed a base between the bench work to be able to get to the back?

The rock faces look great , as do your structures, if slow means quality like this , then by all means play slow.

Steve,

The scenery is definitely a wonderful compliment to your highly detailed structures.  I'm looking forward to the addition of trees and additional structures. 

Thanks everyone.

Lynn, the rock castings are hydrocal using molds from Sterling models and Bragdon. I colored them using cheap craft paints heavily water down. I just put a glob of a couple different paints on a paper  plate and dip my brush into the and into a cup of water. If the paint is too dark I spray the casting with more water. I dry brush all the rocks with white or gray when I'm done.

I will have an access hatch in the center of the town but I haven't worked out the camouflage of it yet. I'm going to try to make something clever.

-Steve

Hi Steve:

Beautifully done. Keep up the good modeling.

Karl

Really nice rock work and buildings.

Beautiful work as always Steve....

Loren...

You should consider replacing those fluorescent tubes with LED equivalent.  LED lights run cooler, it's easier to control color temperature for photography, and most importantly, they don't emit UV light that bleaches out your scenery and structure colors.  You can get some tubes that are just drop-ins, but if you're willing to open the fixture and remove the ballasts (directly wiring the tube sockets), the replacement tubes are cheaper.


dave

Looking good Steve..... 8)

Quote from: deemery on April 08, 2018, 11:35:58 AM
You should consider replacing those fluorescent tubes with LED equivalent.  LED lights run cooler, it's easier to control color temperature for photography, and most importantly, they don't emit UV light that bleaches out your scenery and structure colors.  You can get some tubes that are just drop-ins, but if you're willing to open the fixture and remove the ballasts (directly wiring the tube sockets), the replacement tubes are cheaper.


dave

I'll second that. I just finished converting about 40 of those fluorescent shop lights to direct-wire LED. I gotta admit that pulling apart 20-year old five dollar Menards shop lights was no fun at first but you eventually get the hang of it. Replacement tubes are 15 watt, 2100 lumens, 5000K color temp, 50,000 hour life, and $8.25 each. Basement is now much brighter and quieter. And hopefully no more tube replacement for a long time -- maybe never.

Quote from: SteveCuster on April 06, 2018, 09:44:56 AM
Thanks everyone.

Lynn, the rock castings are hydrocal using molds from Sterling models and Bragdon. I colored them using cheap craft paints heavily water down. I just put a glob of a couple different paints on a paper  plate and dip my brush into the and into a cup of water. If the paint is too dark I spray the casting with more water. I dry brush all the rocks with white or gray when I'm done.

I will have an access hatch in the center of the town but I haven't worked out the camouflage of it yet. I'm going to try to make something clever.

-Steve

Thanks Steve

Thanks everyone.

Dave, I'll probably replace them all with LED worklights in the near future. In the past few years the price has dropped significantly. When I purchased these lights only 3-4 years ago the LED equivalent was about $120.00 now they sell 8 packs for $299. I'll definitely be swapping them over before I complete so much of the layout that my access will be difficult.

I made some more progress in the same area over the last week or so.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-150418222313-31054236.jpeg)
This is Master Creations Minerva Casket Co. I built a while back. I always thought the design of the kit was interesting but I was having a hard time finding a good configuration for it on the layout. I almost scrapped it and put something else in it's place.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-150418222313-310721395.jpeg)
I haven't glued it down yet or blended the scenery into it.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-150418222313-310731040.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-150418222313-310741205.jpeg)
Over the weekend I put together another RDA kit for the background area. This kit will be buried behind many structures and hardly visible so I didn't spend much time on it. I replaced the cast styrene roof with some diamond shingles over cardstock. This is my first time doing this type of roof so it was a bit of an experiment. I cut the shingles using pinking shears. This is a technique George Sellios taught me 20+ years ago but I've never used it until now. You can see these types of roofs all over the F&SM.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-150418222313-310751737.jpeg)
This is the area where this building will sit I think.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-150418222330-3107660.jpeg)

Thanks for checking in.

Next step will be the area in front of the casket company. I'm going to be adding a bridge, small river/stream and a waterfall. I haven't done any waterfalls before so it should be fun. Stay tuned.

-Steve

Steve That's amazing you built that structure over the weekend , I envy you and anyone else that gets a chance to learn techniques from George Sellios. I have soooo much to learn. Your layout is really coming together nicely.

Steve looking great , love the sagging roof on the RDA kit , and what a shame it would have been if you had scrapped the casket building , it looks fantastic.

Hi Steve:

Very well done. Great scenery and structures.

Karl

Great looking structures.

Thanks everyone.

The sagging roof was another technique I learned from George.

Lynn if you live within driving distance to the F&SM it's definitely worth the trip to one of George's open houses.

Wish I did Steve, I'm wayyyy up here in Ontario Canada, where the snow is slowly thinking of leaving. ;D

Steve,


This is one of my favorite threads. You're doing some great work!


John

I agree with John!  Fantastic.  Thanx Thom...

Thanks guys. I'm glad you're following along.

I started to add a new bridge and get a feel for how the water will flow in the area in front of the casket company over the weekend.

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-220418223257-31317323.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-220418223257-313161273.jpeg)

(https://modelersforum.com/gallery/487-220418223257-31284927.jpeg)
The bridge is from Micro Engineering. The water will flow towards the front of the layout and under a few bridges finally ending up at FSM Cartwrights Machine Shop.

I'm going to need to add a building or two in the area right in front of the casket company. I haven't got a clue what I'm going to do there yet.

I'm working off no real plan for the layout. Just kind of working it out as I go.

The nice part about using foam for most of the layout is it's very easy to cut something out and replace it or change it.

Thanks for checking in.

-Steve

I can see how some real rocks would look good in the river below the truss bridge. Have you any plans of adding some color for a backdrop?

Hello everyone,

Its been a long while since I've updated this thread. Slow and steady with the layout progress but it is coming along.

Here's what I've done since the last update.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2211.jpeg)
I installed new LED lights above this area recently. During the installation of the lights above the bridge I dropped one of the lights on the bridge and the stone structure and smashed it.
After I walked away from it for a few hours I managed to rebuild it. This is after the damage. The water developed some bubbles during curing that I'm not crazy about but it wont be noticeable when I surround the area with structures and scenery. I don't think you'll be able to see much of the water up close once I build the area up.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2220.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2212.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2140.jpeg)
This shot is a little blurry but it shows the overall layout of the area. The Town Hall/Diner/Getz Gas will remain unsecured so I can pop it out to get to the back track area if I need to.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2203.jpeg)
All of the background structures are in place. I still want to add some vehicles and people. Also some telephone poles and vegetation.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2204.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2205.jpeg)
The last 2 shots also show Bar Mills Gritty McDuff that will fit in the next area forward. I'm still working on the kit but I had all the main structures done so I spent some time figuring out the placement. Also The Gravely Building is mocked in place. Of course the brick/cobblestone roads are not weathered at all..just primed.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2206.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2207.jpeg)
Callahan Furniture is not permanently placed yet this is a Bar Mills Gibley Furniture kit. Fox Run Milling is glued and installed.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2208.jpeg)
I plan to modify this area a bit. I think my SierraWest Scotia Supply will sit in front of the furniture co. You can see pictures of that build on my website www.scalemodelworkshop.com
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2222.jpeg)
This is the area I need to complete before I can move forward.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2223.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2224.jpeg)
I install the road castings by basically scoring and hacking the foam away till it fits level. Then I glue them down with white glue. These are not weathered just primed. My current project is scratchbuilding a structure that will fit in the area behind the road next to the track.


Thanks for following along. I didn't realize it's been 2 years since I updated this thread. I documented most of the individual structure builds here and on my website.

Lynn, I don't place on adding anything to the backdrop just sky and clouds.

I should be finishing up Gritty McDuffs and the little structure in the last area soon.

We had another baby in August so it's been a little slow lately getting things done.

I worked out most of the challenging areas and I still have a whole shelf of dioramas and structures ready for install so I think progress should speed up a bit. The waterfall bridge area was a bit of a challenge to me and also making something I can remove to access the rear track. Now that both of those things are done it should be smooth sailing.

I'll try not to wait 2 years to update again.

The scenery is looking great and the structures fit in very well.  Nice job!

Well that's one hell of an update.  Some mighty fine scenery and buildings!!


Jerry

Coming on a treat, Steve!

Cheers, Mark.

Steve


You have been very busy.  The layout is really looking great. The elevation changes make every one of those beautiful structures stand out. The textures of the dirt you are using for the scenery are spot on. ;)  First class modeling.  I really appreciate you sharing it with us.

The structures and scenery are awesome. 

Jeff

Thanks for all the positive feedback everyone!

Last week I built a quick little structure for the area between the casket company and town hall.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2231.jpeg)
Here is the structure I ended up with for this area. The rear section is a piece of Bar Mills Gritty Mcduffs that won't fit in the area I need it to so I repurposed it here.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2232.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2233.jpeg)
The loading dock is Bar Mills. Its all one piece casting with the barrels and crates molded in. I think it was a free giveaway from the Altoona Expo.
The window awnings are copies I made when I was building FSM Emporium Seafood.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2234.jpeg)
The structure is just placed here for now. I have to make sure the pop-out clears the left side and the track clears the right.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2235.jpeg)
Here is how it will fit sandwiched between the 2 buildings.

My goal is to finish the area between the casket company, the concrete culvert and the back of the diner in the next day or so. After that I can move to the left of the town hall. I have all the structures built for that area I just need to work everything out.

Thanks for checking in.

Looking back a couple of pages, I see lots of progress.  What kind of 'water' was it that had the bubble trouble?

James I used envirotex for the water but the bubbles came from gloss medium I applied to the surface. I ended up being unhappy with the water texture and I added a few more coats of envirotex. Somewhere in there I trapped some bubbles under the surface.

-Steve

Steve,

Looking back through the thread I don't see anything I don't like, all of it is just very well done.

Tom  ;D

All of your modeling looks excellent.

You've been busy.....looks great Steve..... 8)

Hey
Steve:

Just went through your RR pics again. Your buildings are all just beautiful. Would love to come see your RR sometime.

Karl

Thanks everyone!

Absolutely Karl. Give me a call and we can set something up.

Hey Steve:

Will do.

Karl

Over the last few days I started to really tie to little gray building in and detail around it. I also began the installation of the buildings on the other side of the town hall.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2250-e1574961091626.jpeg)
I still have some small details to add around the area. I want to make some simple crossbucks for the RR crossing and I'll probably be adding some trees behind the structure.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2251-e1574961299961.jpeg)
Because this area is far enough back and will be blocked by some of the structures in front I didn't spend a ton of time going crazy with the detailing. I really just tried to add enough details to make the area visually noisy. I'll be working on the road transition between the removable area and this area to make it a little more seamless.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2252-e1574961690779.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2261-e1574961807297.jpeg)
I added this stone wall. The molds I had were about 5 inches long so I was left with many seams. I covered the seams with vines and it really looks unnatural at this point but I'll fix it once the area in front is added. Most of the stone will be covered with the structures that sit in front of it.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2262-e1574962038529.jpeg)
Here is the area once the structures are placed. I condensed Bar Mills Gritty Mcduffs down for this area. Bar Mills Gravely Building is also part of it. I haven't added any of the scenery to The Gravely Building yet. It's going to be a little be tricking because I plan on having a bit of a hill going up in front of it so I can tie into the next level. You can see where I cut out some of the foam at the far left next to the cobble stone so it can be tied in.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/11/img_2263-e1574962270901.jpeg)
This is how everything ties together right now. I tried to break everything up with some elevation changes. I feel like it looks more interesting and natural and it helps to keep all the rear structures from being completed blocked by the foreground taller buildings.

Thanks for following along.

You have some very impressive buildings Steve.  The layout of the area with the buildings looks just great

Steve...

What are you using for your basic dirt medium or color.

It is very cool.

thanx
Bob

Quote from: bparrish on November 30, 2019, 03:16:13 AM
Steve...

What are you using for your basic dirt medium or color.

It is very cool.

thanx
Bob

Steve,
Your layout is amazing.  Like Bob I would like to know how you do your basic ground cover for your layout.  It looks very realistic.

Thanks guys.

I apologize Bob I didn't see your question until just now.

My ground cover is really simple. The dirt I use is just regular Pennsylvania dirt baked and sifted as fine as I can get it. I've experimented with a few different ways to get the dirt as fine as possible especially for the roads and paths. I was using a mortar and pestle before but more recently I bought a cheap coffee grinder and that really speeds things up and gets everything super fine.

For the foliage I use mostly Woodland Scenics coarse turf in Earth color as my starting point. I also use some Silfor for the weeds and some of the Supertree material for bushes and trees.

I'm glad you guys like the way it looks.

Things have slowed a bit on the layout while I build a few kits to add in. Should be some updates coming soon.

All I can say is WOW!

Seems like every addition brings out the other buildings more.


Wonderful job on this RR.


Jerry

Its nice to see you're getting a good balance of building structures and getting them in the scene and working on the layout as well. The river and waterfall scene looks great.

Your making some really good progress here, Steve.  Looks great.

Cheers, Mark.

Thanks everyone.

Small progress update..

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/04/img_0370-e1587522768478.jpg)
I added some foliage to this little hillside in preparation to start to work from the back forward in this area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/04/img_0372-e1587522795955.jpg)
A different angle of the area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/04/img_0386-e1587522813352.jpg)
This is where Chippy Hollow will go. Of course its only sitting there until I figure out the rest of the area. Just to give an idea of my intentions here. You can see where I wrote "Station" on the roadbed to the left...That will be where the station is going. I already started on it. I'm using FSM Brownsville Depot.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/04/img_0387-e1587522841321.jpg)
Another shot of the area from a different angle. I'm going to work this area for a little while until I get a better plan for the front portion of the area with Grittys.

I did some not particularly interesting things to the layout also since the last update. I replaced all of the lighting in this area with LEDs. As I work my way across the layout I plan on replacing all the fixtures with LEDS. I also added a fairly crude switch panel and a few Tortoise switch machines.


Thanks for checking in.

Beautiful work Steve on all your kits.
ed

Beautiful modeling.

A little goes a long way.


Thanks for the update wonderful modeling.


Jerry

Very nice, Steve. I really like that Blandings and Gallard structure. I have never seen that before. Is that a scratch build?

Steve


The layout looks fantastic, I'm really enjoying following your progress. Thank you for sharing it with us.

Thanks everyone. I'm glad there's some interest in what I'm doing here. I intended to reply earlier but the database error always get me from my phone.

Vince, The Blandings and Gallard building is a reworked Master Creations kit. It was missing one of the main structures when I bought it on Ebay. I ended up just making whatever I could out of it.
The old Master Creations kits are good buys if you plan on ignoring the directions and doing your own thing but you have to get them cheap enough.

I did a build thread of it here:
http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=4220 (http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=4220)

I'm working on the depot for the layout right now. Should have an update soon.

Hey Steve:

WOW!!! buddy it's really looking pretty cool.

Karl

Steve any progress of late?


Jerry

Just went over the thread again. Really great modeling. Feast for the eyes.

Very nice... always a pleasure for the eyes
Great modeling skills
Eric

Thanks guys. I've made a few additions to the layout since the last update. I'll post a few pictures later tonight. I'm glad to hear you guys are interested.

Here are the small additions I've made since the last update. Nothing is really set in place yet but I'm starting to mock up the rest of this area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/09/img_0913-e1599620831871.jpeg)
I scratchbuilt this building using some of the FSM castings from RailroadKits. I showed more pictures of it on another thread.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/09/img_0922-e1599620984468.jpeg)
This gives a little idea of the placement of the structure and how the rest of the area will feel. I built Scotia Supply a while ago and the little white building is from Foscale.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/img_1156-e1605925495780.jpg)
I built this copy of George's Bonney Wrenches from the wall section cut by KC Workshop. You can see in this shot I'm working out the idea for some water coming out of a culvert between this 2 buildings.
It will give me a chance to make a cool scene with a small wooden bridge connecting the siding to Scotia Supply.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/img_1158.jpg)
This photo gives a better feel for how the water will flow. I started adding the stone bridge underneath the tracks in the front. I believe it's a hydrocal kit from Monroe Models.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/img_1157.jpg)
I'm working on the area in front of Getz Gas (the foam with the FR on it). I plan on building that area mostly on the bench and dropping it in. It will have the latest SierraWest kit Mortons Foundry.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/img_1155.jpg)
This is a shot of the same area only slightly to the right. Cartwrights is mocked up in place where it will live.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/img_1154.jpg)
The station is also set in place. Nothing is secured yet of course. I always try to work back to front. The area behind the station will be some smaller version of Sewalls Foundry. I have all the castings but I don't intend to make it the same as the kit. Maybe just the main building and the overhead crane. If anyone has a copy of the overhead crane templates from the kit please let me know. It will make it a bit easier to figure out.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/11/img_1153.jpg)
This might give a little better flow of the area. I have a whole mess of structures to add but I'm hoping it starts to come together quickly.

Thanks for following along and giving me a nudge to update this thread.

Steve, Wow!!! That's really coming together so well. Love the structure's and color's...Dennis

Steve, What structure is the one with the Gulf sign on top? Got any more picture's of it? Thanks Dennis

Thanks Dennis,

Here's a link to more pictures of the structure
http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=5368.0

It's a scratch build I made using some of the wall, window and door castings from Railroadkits.
The stone base is either from Sewalls Foundry or Wilfred Brambell. I mixed up both sets and used the castings.

Steve, took a moment to look over your site - I'm impressed.

Would love to sync sometime.

The individual structures look great , and then you put them together and it simply looks awesome , what a fantastic layout you're turning this into.

Hey Steve:

the layout looks just beautiful. Would love to see it sometime.

Karl

Very nice Steve, and thanks for providing us with an update of your progress.
The structures and placement really capture a look and feel as they all come together, wonderful stuff !!
All the best,
--Paul

Steve thanks for the update.  it's looking fantastic!!


Great coloring brings all these buildings together.


Jerry

Thank you Steve....Dennis

Hello Steve, you sure are doing a great job on your layout. Love the way you are placing the structures for a very realistic looking scene.   Jeff

Beautiful modeling.

Steve,

Beautiful modeling. Always a pleasure to view the thread and see what you've been up to. Thanks for sharing.

Tom  ;D

Thomas looks thirsty.  Better spot him under that water tower.   ;)

Very nice modeling.  Coming along wonderfully!

The time and effort in that one corner is amazing.....well done Steve..... 8)

Steve,
I'm a bit behind in catching up with your layout thread, but glad I did now.  Looks fantastic.  Great use of a color palette to bring it all together.

--Opa George

Thanks everyone! I'm glad you're following along even if my updates are inconsistent.

I finished work on one of the key structures to this area of the layout Morton's Foundry.
Link to the thread is here http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=5560.0 (http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=5560.0)

I took a few pictures of the area as it's starting to flesh out. I really have no plan so I'm just laying things out until they feel natural to me.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/12/img_1302-e1608690504542.jpeg)
I placed Morton's in its home temporarily and I got a feel for the road and how I can complete the scene behind it. I had a partially complete garage from FSM Roadside Delights sitting on my shelf and I liked how it looked in this area. You can see the diner from the same kit next to it also.

The area to the left of Mortons will be a small trestle leading over a some water. That's next on my agenda.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/12/img_1304.jpeg)
I marked the area I thought the roadway should go and once I add the trestle the track can get set in it's place. I'm thinking I can add lots of automotive related details around the garage with a fence separating the edge of the scene behind it. The square with city hall, Getz gas and the diner is a removal pop-out to get the the track behind it.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2020/12/img_1305.jpeg)
The water will connect to the water coming under Cartwrights.

I'll post another update once I get the little bridge completed and start really working on the scenery. Once the ground cover, roads and water are in place I don't think I'll need to add many more structures to this area for it to feel complete.

Thanks for following along.

Something about your layout really speaks to me. I mean, I can give you several reasons, but it has that x-factor at the same time. I think it's because our taste in design and weathering is very similar.

Excellent work Steve.

Looking really nice, Steve.

Its a very deep scene you are creating.  The view across Cartwrights is lovely.

Cheers, Mark.

The scenery and structures are top notch and look as good as I've ever seen.

Steve just really like what your doing with the layout.


You seem to layout everything to fit perfectly.
Guess that why I like this RR and your updates.


Great work.


Jerry

Thanks everyone! I'm glad you guys like what I'm doing here.

Hello Everyone,

I spent some time over the last few days working on the layout. Here's a small update on my progress.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1394.jpeg)
I started finishing the area directly behind Scotia Supply. First step was filling in the foam hills with some plaster. I use plaster of paris for this.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1395.jpeg)
I painted the hill with whatever brown color I had nearby in a craft paint. It doesn't really matter just needs to be brown. While the paint is still wet I start sprinkling on the dirt base.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1396-e1609708731837.jpeg)
This is the first layer of ground cover. The dirt I use is from outside. I bake it then I put it through a cheap coffee grinder to get it ground up fine. Some of it I sift really fine for roads. The ground foam is from Woodland Scenics. I prefer Earth and Burnt Grass as a base. Everything is still wet in this picture.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1397-e1609708888596.jpeg)
I glued down this structure from Fos Scale Models. Before I started putting down the scenic base I marked off the structures footprint. I didn't put the scenery directly up to the structure yet. I wanted to wait till everything dried. I have a tendency to put a hand or finger in my wet scenery if I try to do too much while everything is wet.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1400-e1609709155884.jpeg)
I added some ground cover around the structure and while everything was wet I started planting some of the details. These details are all from my castings box. I don't think any of them came with the kit.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1402-e1609709263100.jpeg)
This is the other side of the structure. I created a little dirt road going down towards Fox Run Milling. Some of this ground cover doesn't belong. I still need to tidy it up a bit.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1403.jpeg)
I thought the top of the hill needed a fence so I started this rustic wooden post fence. I like this type of fence because its very easy to do and it helps frame a scene or area without obscuring the view of the area behind it. I cut scale 4x4s 5 scale feet long and use a toothpick to make a little hole to sink them. This fence the posts are a scale 8 ft apart.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1404-e1609709595235.jpeg)
All the posts are added. I also added a bush in the corner of the furniture store lot.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1405-e1609709663207.jpeg)
I added all the rails to the fence with scale 2x4s. I made sure my posts were spaced pretty evenly so I could just use my chopper to cut 24 boards 8 ft long. This type of fence only takes me about 10 minutes to make and it helps add some noise to the scene. I also added the small section of fence at the end of the road. It's plastic from Central Valley. I sprayed it Earth and weathered it with A&I and chalks then I added a few signs.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1406-e1609709821325.jpeg)
The last thing I did to the fence was a final wash of A&I. I wanted it to be darker but more importantly I needed to color the board ends for both the posts and rails.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1408-e1609710073583.jpeg)
I placed Scotia Supply in it's home to get a feel for the vegetation behind it. I still need to add some trees, bushes, sticks etc.. to the hill before its finished.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1410.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1409.jpeg)
Another view of the area with Scotia Supply in place.

I already completed a small wooden trestle that will connect the track coming off Scotia Supply. Next step is completing the installation of Bonney Wrenches and the gas station from Roadside Delights then I can start adding the bridges and the water that will run between Scotia Supply and Morton's Foundry.

Thanks for following along. More updates coming.

Great work, Steve. Very natural, well detailed. Your presentation makes the hobby look effortless in its effectiveness.

Everything looks fantastic.

I have one of those stone arch bridges somewhere.  It had a great place on my previous layout.


dave

Steve what a wonderful scene you have created.  Everything fits together so perfectly.


Excellent work!


Jerry

 Wow; what an outstanding layout. Just for kicks; how do you reach anything along the walls.  Joan bought me this "Topside Creeper" and it is really a God-send.  Here is a picture of it with my fat arse laying on it.  I am by no means a salesman for these...it's just a good investment.  Only drawback is that it is big and takes up a lot of space; but it can be collapsed and roll under your layout (Ha-ha; like anyone has any room under their layout.)

Thanks everyone!

John, the town hall/Getz gas/FSM diner pops out for access to the rear area. It's not ideal but it'll work if I really need to get back there. I've used those creepers in the past but for working on bigger trucks as an auto mechanic. I've spent a long time laying on one rebuilding the top of an engine and you really don't get fatigue except your arms. They work great and I'll probably buy one once it gets difficult to reach the rear areas.

As always Steve just awesome work.....

Doug

Very nice Steve.  I love the way you're blending the structures into the scenery.  Looks exactly like it should and as if they've been there all along.   ;)

Thanks Doug and Bob

Hello everyone,

Been working fairly steadily on the layout over the last week or so. I'm starting to really flesh out the area shown in the previous posts.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1421-e1611005021739.jpeg)
I added the culvert and 2 retaining walls between the 2 pieces of foam. You may recognize them from FSM Cartwrights. I know this will be the starting point for the little river/stream but I haven't really got a grip on how it will flow towards the front just yet.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1422-e1611005175186.jpeg)
I started to add the road. I use Plaster of Paris for this. I try to get it as smooth as possible using a large spackle blade followed by a wet sponge to smooth it out.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1423-e1611005269354.jpeg)
I placed the 2 buildings that will go in this area in their spots and marked it off so I can plan the expansion joints in the concrete.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1425.jpeg)
I marked where I wanted the joints in the concrete with a thin pencil.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1426-e1611005530405.jpeg)
I colored the concrete with gray chalk craft paint followed by George's technique of using powder from a sanded charcoal briquet.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1427-e1611005615546.jpeg)
I added this little trestle. Its not glued down, it's just set in place so I can start to figure out the surrounding scenery.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1434-e1611005769926.jpeg)
Before I could glue down Bonney Wrenches I needed to finish the scenery behind it. It's still wet in this picture.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1435.jpeg)
I spent an evening or 2 painting some castings to fill the area. I still have about 100 primed I need to paint before I add them to the gas station.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1437.jpeg)
Added some castings behind the building.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1439-e1611005930545.jpeg)
Structure is glued in place. I still need to many details to fill in around the front.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1440-e1611006016358.jpeg)
The area behind the structure. It's not real easy to see from the front of the layout but if you lean a little its visible so I filled it with junk.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1443-e1611006089113.jpeg)
Added some scenery to the edge of the concrete. I took my concrete further than I planned on having it. It's easier to cover it will dirt and weeds than it is to add more concrete.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1444-e1611006174919.jpeg)
I added this fence behind the gas station. It's from Tichy. I sprayed it with Earth and weathered it with some chalks and A&I.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1441.jpeg)
Before I installed the fence I epoxied some spikes to the corners to make it easier to secure. I just cut the head off of some T pins for this. I also use cut-off T pins to secure chimneys on pitched roofs. Same basic idea, cut the head off, drill out the bottom and spike it on the roof with some glue.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1445-e1611006323892.jpeg)
This gives an idea of how it will look with the station in place. Of course my next step is adding the missing roof and finishing up the pumps etc.. I plan on having lots of automotive junk all along the fence.

That's all I have so far. I have a few things I need to build before I can really finish out the scene. I want to finish the area behind Morton's Foundry before I plant it so that's my focus right now.
The water will run right next to Morton's so I really can't work the bank past the bridge till I get it installed.

Looking really good, Steve.

Enjoying watching this come together.

Cheers, Mark.

I've read complaints that track sitting directly on styrofoam can be noisy.  Is that your experience?

If you want a less weathered look on styrene, try priming with a light yellow.  I use Badger Stynylrez Neutral Yellow (https://usaairbrushsupply.com/products/stynylrez-primer-neutral-yellow), and I've gotten great results by priming and then applying HunterLine (or the new BESTTrains Vetero) wood stains.

dave

Thanks Mark, Thanks Dave

Dave, I'll check that out for the paint. As far as noise goes I haven't really noticed the styrofoam being extra noisy but I only have track directly on styrofoam in a few areas and only on sidings. The rest of the layout is traditional homasote over 1/2" plywood. All my engines have sound so that may help to mask any noisy track.

Love watching this exceptional work coming together.  Nice box of castings! I bet they don't go as far as you think as all the details sift into the layout!

Steve this is gorgeous build. Everything looks like it belongs together.

Such great scenes Steve, love all the detailing you're doing.

Thanks Darryl, Curt and Jan.

Darryl, they never do. I try to keep a big box of painted castings ready to go so I can keep moving if I'm putting together a scene. It's definitely the most time consuming part of the hobby for me, painting and weathering castings.

Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful.

One of my favorite threads.

Thanks Craig, glad you're following along.

Hello Steve, I'll second what Craig said, what a wonderful job you are doing. I'm enjoying it very much.   Jeff

The wood load is a Owl Mountain styrene kit, primed with the neutral yellow and then HunterLine driftwood.
dave

Thanks Jeff

Dave, I use the Hunterline Driftwood on stripwood to simulate newer boards. It's not very strong but it just knocks the brightness off. Sounds like you're doing the same thing. I haven't tried it over painted styrene though. I will give it a try. Thanks

Really looking good Steve

Doug

Thanks Doug

Always like when you update.  That is really coming along.  Beautiful work.


I can see you put a lot of thought into placing things before making the final decision.


Jerry

Thanks Jerry.

Small update today..

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1451-e1611317647783.jpeg)
I finished the roof, a few of the other small details on the gas station and I glued it down last night.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1452-e1611317898280.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1453-e1611317941634.jpeg)

Next step will be working on some of the small mini scenes around the area and detailing around the structures.

Thanks for following along.

Mitchell's looks awesome.

Thanks Curt

Steve,

Bonney Wrenches and Mitchell's are both excellent. Well done indeed.

Tom  ;D

Hello Steve, I am really enjoying your layout build thread. You have a real talent for placing the structures in a very interesting and realistic fashion. It all looks great.    Jeff

Looks great Steve..... 8)  If Mitchell's is a kit, who is the manufacturer?

Thanks Tom, Jeff and Greg. I really appreciate all the positive feedback!

Greg, it's part of FSM Roadside Delights I just changed the name. The other part is the diner behind it.

Small update today...I added the outside drive-up service ramp and a small shed over the weekend.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1459-e1611675723465.jpeg)
The ramp is part of the FSM Roadside Delights. Its made with U channel wood and wood bracing. I sprayed it with flat black and weathered it with some rust colored chalks. I did have a little bit of a problem with a gap in the front left corner under the leg.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1464.jpeg)
I covered up any gaps between the legs and the concrete with rags. The rags are super easy to make and a must detail for any mechanical repair scene. They also work really well for covering up stuff like a gap or maybe a less than high quality casting. I added some grime and grease under the ramp also.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1463.jpeg)
I put together this little shed. This is also part of Roadside Delights.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1465-e1611676205148.jpeg)
This picture gives an idea of how the scene is starting to unfold. I already put together a vehicle for the ramp and I'll start adding all the details along the fence and around the structures.

The scene should start to really come to life this week. I've already completed most of the castings for the area and I still have a few vehicles to put together.

Hello Steve, great job as usual. What do you use to make those rags ?  This will be a great scene when done.    Jeff

Nice scene Steve - could you do a step by step tutorial on how you get your gray weathered siding look i.e. the L shaped structure in the background with blue trim? -Thanks.
Doug

Thanks Jeff and Doug.

Jeff, sorry I actually meant to give a little description of how I make them in the post but I forgot. Its really simple - I separate a tissue into a single ply, cut it into a little square maybe 1/4" x 1/4" up to 1/2" or 1" for tarps. Then I crumple it up between my fingers in a little ball, uncrumple it and put a little drop of glue where I want it. I use a medium-small brush to put a drop of alcohol on it to relax it. I want it pretty wet but not wetting the area around it then to color it I use the same alcohol brush and dip it in red acrylic paint (In this case its Boxcar Red from Reaper Miniatures/SierraWest paint set) If your tissue is wet enough it should wick into the tissue and you don't really have to paint it. If you buy a name brand tissue they have a doily pattern on the outer edge, just make sure you cut your square from the middle of the tissue where the pattern isn't there.

Doug, I have a detailed description of building that kit in this thread-
http://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=4548.0

For almost all of my painting I use the mineral spirits under craft paint technique. I find it easy to control and it gives a nice faded/peeling paint effect. You only need to be careful with red colors- they have tendency to turn pink when you work them with a wire brush. The white siding on Mitchell's is done the same way (walls colored with A&I followed by mineral spirits and a top coat of Apple Barrel White before the mineral spirits completely dries (I want to see a little shine but not wet).

Beautiful modeling Steve. The ramp is a really nice detail.

Hey Steve:

All I can say is WOWWIE!!!! The layout is coming along just beautifully. Love the Gas station & diner. Actually I shouldn't be choosey all you structures are just beautiful and very professionally done.

Karl

Thanks for all the positive feedback everyone!

I started adding the details this evening. I had intended to get both Mitchells and Bonney Wrenches detailed a bit tonight but I ended up only working on the gas station.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1472.jpeg)
I had a large gap between the concrete and the bottom of the wall here so I needed to make sure my details all covered it up.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1473.jpeg)
I added all the stuff across the front here. Many of the castings came with Roadside Delights but I'm not sure which ones.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1474.jpeg)
The area around the ramp was where I spent the most time. I really wanted it junked up and messy. I need to touch up the top of the Clabber sign. The white edge is driving me nuts in these pictures.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1475.jpeg)
More details.. I still need to add some dirt and oil spots on the ground but I needed to wait till everything dried first.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1476.jpeg)
I didn't detail the interior of the garage because it wont be visible from the front of the layout very easily. I'll place a vehicle in the door opening to cover up the missing interior.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1478.jpeg)
I placed a car on the ramp. This is a Wheel Works 32 Ford Victoria kit.

Thanks for following along. I'll start detailing Bonney Wrenches tomorrow if everything works out.

Steve,
Looking excellent as always....

Loren...

Steve


Beautiful work, I love all the details.

Great looking project Steve.  The details make it.

Steve great detailing.  You do a really good job putting everything in a proper place to make the scene pop!!


Jerry

Thanks everyone for all the positive feedback and thanks for taking the time to comment.

Small update today..

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1480-e1611935224663.jpeg)
I put a truck inside the bay door for the shop. This is a Sylvan kit. I added a couple sinks and some wood in the bed for some added character. I also added the Texaco Sign.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1482-e1611935406456.jpeg)
I added some details around the bottom of Bonney Wrenches. I had a pretty decent gap along the bottom so I needed to make sure I used details that would cover.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1481-e1611935510696.jpeg)
Another shot of the area..

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/img_1483-e1611935560364.jpeg)
I placed Mortons back in its home to get a feel for what still needs to be done behind it.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/01/inkedimg_1484_li.jpg)
Next step will be building something small to fit in this little area here. After that I should be able to start to finish the scenery and details behind the foundry.

Excellent photos.

Beautiful work, Steve. The clutter is the crowning touch.  And I agree with Curt--excellent photos.

--Opa George

Looking really great, Steve.

Cheers, Mark.

Hey Steve:

WOWWIE!!!!! How beautiful. Has the F&SM touch.

Karl

Hello Steve, I agree with the others, very nice pictures and you have a great eye for detailing your structures to make them look natural.   Jeff

Thanks everyone! I really appreciate all the positive feedback.

I spent a little time working on a few things this weekend...should have an update soon.

Over the weekend I started work on the creek bed and the surrounding scenery. I also built a little building for the area I had previously circled.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1487.jpeg)
Nothing too complicated. I just mix plaster of paris with whatever brown paint I have and start making some hills and filling stuff in.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1490.jpeg)
After the first bit dried I added some more plaster this time I placed the bridge in its spot to work the plaster around it. You can see the color is different, this was mixed with Apple Barrel Chocolate Bar and it gives it an almost purple color. It's not my favorite but it still works to keep any white from showing through.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1491-e1612326663393.jpeg)
The first layer of dirt and basic ground cover is down.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1494.jpeg)
I built this little brick building for my empty area behind the foundry. It was made by combining 2 sets of walls from the little brick building off the main Chippy Hollow structure.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1493.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1492.jpeg)
Everything is still wet in this picture but it gives an idea of how it's starting to come together.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1498-e1612326933971.jpeg)
The bridge is in place and I glued the track down.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1497.jpeg)
I also started adding some details around the building. I'm not sure how visible everything will be once I place the foundry in front of it.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1496.jpeg)
The other side. I also added some more black/gray weathering to the concrete road.

Thanks for following along..

Fabulous modeling.

Amazing, as always

Hey Steve:

Looking just gorgeous. Love how you put Roadside Delights on two levels. I just can't wait to see your layout. Beautiful job on one of my favorites. Bonney Wrenches. I have the signs and all the casting pulled for it. Might build it someday.

Karl

Steve, You work is absolutely beautiful and impressive. I know you are spending a lot of time working on your railroad creation. I wonder if you thought about adding LED lighting to your structures. I have been hesitant for many years, but finally got in to it and i like the results. It just adds so much more to the illusion you are creating. Just wondering. Keep up the beautiful work.


Frank / Erieman

Thanks everyone! I really appreciate the positive feedback!

Karl, Bonney Wrenches is a favorite of mine as well. KC's workshop has a bare-bones kit for it, that's what I used here.

Frank, I really like lit up structures but it's really time consuming and I find it a little too frustrating. I added full lighting on my O'Neills/Quincy Salvage diorama with full interiors in all the structures and it was a lot of work. I ran all the lights through tubing into scale goosenecks and it looked pretty good but the lights ended up not working after a little while and its really tough to service them. I did drill holes in most of the bases for the structures in case I want to add some lighting in the future. If I do it'll be a simplified lighting setup with a LED or 2 just to light up some of the interiors. We'll see...

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/01/2018-01-28-006.jpg)
This is how I ended up lighting up the salvage yard. I really thought this was a cool picture.

Amazing detailing.

Quote from: SteveCuster on February 03, 2021, 03:31:48 PM
Thanks everyone! I really appreciate the positive feedback!

Karl, Bonney Wrenches is a favorite of mine as well. KC's workshop has a bare-bones kit for it, that's what I used here.

Frank, I really like lit up structures but it's really time consuming and I find it a little too frustrating. I added full lighting on my O'Neills/Quincy Salvage diorama with full interiors in all the structures and it was a lot of work. I ran all the lights through tubing into scale goosenecks and it looked pretty good but the lights ended up not working after a little while and its really tough to service them. I did drill holes in most of the bases for the structures in case I want to add some lighting in the future. If I do it'll be a simplified lighting setup with a LED or 2 just to light up some of the interiors. We'll see...

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2019/01/2018-01-28-006.jpg)
This is how I ended up lighting up the salvage yard. I really thought this was a cool picture.

This picture is truly amazing and the lighting just completes the scene. LED lighting is frustrating and time comsuming, but and that is a big BUT, worth all the time you put into the scene. Your work is super fine.
I have been lurking on the forum, not posting much. I am trying to finish, if there is such a phrase, to complete my  layout before i have to downsize. Getting old is not fun, unless you are in the train room.


Frank / Erieman

I really appreciate the kind words Frank! Do you have any updated pictures of the layout? I'd love to see where you're at these days.

Steve:

The car shop look really great. Keep the pics flowing.

Karl

Thanks Karl

The details you added are really first rate Steve.....well done.  8)

Steve,

Great photo and shop details. Looks very authentic.

Tom  ;D

Thanks Greg, Thanks Tom

Quote from: SteveCuster on February 04, 2021, 07:40:46 AM
I really appreciate the kind words Frank! Do you have any updated pictures of the layout? I'd love to see where you're at these days.

Steve,


Send me a PM with your email address and ill send you some links and recent photos.


Frank / Erieman

What a great picture.  And the detail why I love this layout!!


Jerry

Thanks for all the positive feedback everyone!

If anyone was following my other thread building the FSM Branchline Coaling Station I explained how I had plans to place the coaling station directly to the right of Mortons Foundry. Once I started assembling the FSM kit I realized it was much larger than I had originally thought and it really overpowered the scene. I try to never shelf a kit I start if I intend to ever finish it so I took a detour and finished the kit before working on the area of the layout I've been working on again.

Yesterday I was able to get back on track completing the area I've been documenting here. Lots of small details to add and scenes to finish.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1603.jpeg)
I added a metal fence around the top of the walls here. It's from Central Valley. Of course the area still needs something.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1604.jpeg)
I added some vegetation and a few telephone poles. These telephone poles are from RIX. They have notches on the front for different crossbar positions which is nice except if you pick the highest one you still have 4 notches that are pretty noticeable to me. That's why they are facing the rear of the layout.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1605-e1614479462594.jpeg)
Adding more scenery, a few details and moving towards the front of the layout..

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1606-e1614479518907.jpeg)
I added a few more details around this little building. I also built this truck w/ tractor from Wheel Works.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1607-e1614479612996.jpeg)
The area to the right of the gas station felt a little empty so I added this billboard. I used the billboard from the FSM Roadside Delights kit but the sign itself I found on the internet.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/02/img_1608-e1614479718407.jpeg)
I added the plaster for the road that will run up over the tracks here and into my FSM Cartwrights Machine Shop. Tomorrow when it dries I'll start detailing and coloring the road.

Thanks for following along.

Great to see you continued progress, Steve.

Your road, even in its primitive state, seems to have a nice flow about it.

Cheers, Mark.

The flow of things going to the front is very easy on the eyes.  Great work Steve.
Looking forward to more.


Jerry

Endlessly interesting as always, Steve. Maybe that culvert needs a looming tree with tire swing — or maybe it's become a dumping ground for locals? Doug Foscale just posted an awesome video about trash in a low tide.

Do you have a structure in mind to replace where the FSM kit would've gone?

Wow!  Wow!  Wow!

Hey Steve:

Wow!!!!! looks just beautiful. Can't wait o see that RR.

Karl

Steve,

Absolutely the best. Extremely well done in all areas.

Tom  ;D

Thanks everyone! I really appreciate all the positive feedback.

In all honesty this is way further than I've ever built a layout and I'm just sort of feeling my way through it. Most everything I'm doing here I've never done before so it's a learning experience. All the feedback lets me know I'm heading in the right direction.

Before I add in any water I'll definitely be adding some debris and trash in and around the water area. I still have quite a bit more detailing to do as I work my way forward. My main concern was getting the area behind Morton's Foundry detailed so that I could limit the amount of reaching over the front structures I needed to do. It's hard to really tell what will be visible once the front area starts to come together so I'm sure I'll be adding some things as I go.

Craig, I built a little open shed for the area to the right of Morton's where the FSM kit was originally planned to go but I'm not sure I like it there. I need to finish the road the see how much space I really have between the right side of Morton's and the road. I may end up just adding some clutter and a fence or something if it ends up not feeling right with a full fledge structure there. Also Cartwright's sits right in front of that area so anything I do may end up getting blocked by the relatively tall structure. I'm not having much luck visualizing the area yet so I think I need to just start putting it together and feel it out as I go. I'll let you guys know how it works out for me good or bad.

Thanks for following along everyone!

Good morning everyone.

Small update this morning but some progress was made last night on the layout.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/03/img_1618-e1614611006287.jpeg)
I filled in this little strip between the tracks and the road with bushes and some random debris.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/03/img_1616-e1614611144642.jpeg)
I scribed and colored the road. Still doesn't look like much but it'll all come together when I edge it off with the rest of the scenery.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/03/img_1617-e1614611243583.jpeg)
I glued down the foundry in it's final position last night. Today or tonight I will start to tie everything together around the base with a little plaster. I also need to add an embankment to the left of the foundry to tie it into the water there. You can see where I sort of marked the foam at the place where the hill will end.

That's all for now. I'd like to get the area between the road and the foundry finished soon so that's my goal. It's smaller than I had originally envisioned so it should be easier to put together.

Hey Steve:

Great pics. Thanks for sharing. Keep em coming.

Karl

Yesterday I was able to get the basic ground cover down in the area next to Mortons Foundry. I also built a small shed to fill the area in a bit.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/03/img_1632-e1614783347843.jpeg)
I needed to fill the area with something more than vegetation but I didn't think it needed a full fledged building so I built this little shed. It gives some variety to the area and a good spot to add some logical detail placement in and around the structure. I tried a few other structures but everything overpowered the foundry and made the area look strange. I also didn't want to block the gas station with something taller.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/03/img_1631-e1614783775583.jpeg)
I added a shelving unit and a small workbench. You can see the ground is still wet. I had already let the rest of the ground cover dry before I added the shed. Before I add any details or something like this to an area I always wet it down first so I can sink it into the dirt. I try to avoid anything looking like its sitting on top of the dirt. I wanted to start adding more details to the area but I knew if I did I would disturb what I have already so I decided to wait.

Once this all dries I'll start adding more vegetation to really define the paths for vehicles in this area.

Thanks for following along.

Steve,
            Layout is coming along really very nicely!  I just love the overall scenes.
                                                                                                    Thanx Thom...

Looks great, Steve. Love that shed.

My only "watch out", would be your dirt inside the shed itself not having too many undulations, so it looks like sand on a beach.

Coincidentally, are those bench and shelve castings from Rusty Rail?

Thanks Thom and Craig.

Craig, The shelf casting is a resin casting from SierraWest I bought from Brett at one of the Expos and the bench is a FSM leftover I think (definitely white metal and a clean casting). Not sure which kit. They came from my painted castings box so I'm not 100% sure.

As far as the dirt goes I'll smooth it out once it all dries and I start to get some defined pathways in and out of the shed. I have it sifted so fine that sometimes the eye dropper of glue erodes the dirt and creates little pathways just like the beach..it's no good and definitely something that I need to correct before the scene is done. I'll end up rewetting the area a bunch more once I start adding details and plant life. That should help level everything out as well.

Hey Steve:

Who makes The Bonneys Wrenches kit? I'd like to get one. Just can't remember the manufacturer.

Karl

Its made by KC's Workshop Karl.

https://kcworkshop.com/products/by-request-fsm-tribute-bonney-wrenches-ho-scale

He Steve:

Thanks buddy much appreciated.

Karl

Hey Steve:

Just went through your whole thread on the RR. It is just beautiful. Love all the cool buildings and signs. I just can't wait to saee it in person.

Karl

Steve,

This thread as been a real treat to follow. It all looks fantastic. Well done for sure.

Tom  ;D

Hello Steve, great work as always. I really like how you make everything look so natural.    Jeff

Hey Steve:

Thanks for the info. I checked and it is sold out.

Karl

If you've never done most of this before Steve.....I can't wait to see what you do when you've got it figured out.  ;)

One of my facorite threads.  You do some really outstanding work.  Very realistic.


Jerry

Thanks for all the encouraging words everyone!

Karl, Might be worth contacting Ken Crump and seeing if he's going to run off a few more.

I've been working on the layout a little bit over the last couple days. I ran into an electrical issue that took a bit to figure out. One of my Tortoise switch machines was drawing so much current none of the rest of them would move at all. No noise or anything from them. Once I figured it out I replaced the machine and now I can get back to working on the visual stuff instead of the electrical stuff.

Update coming soon..once I have something interesting to show.

WOW !!!! I just stumbled upon this thread today..and I am impressed.
All of the structures look perfectly constructed, roads flow seamlessly
together, and ground cover ties it all together. I was hoping to see
some of your layout pictures and I will definitely be following along on
your progress. Thanks for sharing.

Rich

He Steve:

Thanks for the Idea.

Karl

Thanks Rich!

Small redundant update to anyone who's been following my Sewalls Foundry thread. In the interest of continuity I'm crossposting some of the photos from that thread as I installed the structure on the layout.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1781.jpeg)
I added the concrete for this area. Same technique as previously mentioned...plaster of paris...gray chalk paint and weathered with ground down charcoal briquettes.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1787.jpeg)
I installed this structure..it was built using the main wall castings from RailroadKits for Sewalls Foundry. I haven't added any details yet but it will be busy.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1785.jpeg)
This shot shows how it will tie in to the rest of the layout.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1789.jpeg)
I started working the banks of the little river. I added the basic ground cover here as well but I didn't take a picture yet.

Small update for now...I need to work on a few of the smaller details then I can move past the track and onto the front area of the layout.

Thanks for following along!

Looks great Steve...the hills dwarf the structures - as they should and often don't...yours looks perfect!


Great coloring, as always, particularly the worn concrete. I'm looking forward to the details and the river.


John

Very Nice Layout, wonderful  building very well desserved by beautiful scenery
Eric

Looks great, Steve! Those shingles paid off. You're making good progress.

Those brick columns look great Steve..... 8)

It all looks just right!

Tom  ;D

Steve - You're really good at this.  You ought to think about going into model railroading.

Very cool Steve - gets better with every new addition...

Doug

Hey Steve:

Looks like A great spot on the RR for it.

Karl

Hello Steve, another great addition to your layout, it just keeps getting better.   Jeff

Awesome work Steve.  Everything looks very right and natural to me.  You've done a masterful job of blending all of those different elements into a believable scene.

Thanks for all the positive comments everyone! I really appreciate the positive feedback!

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1791-e1618407401684.jpeg)
I added some basic ground cover to the hill/bank of the water area. This is just the base level, I'll be adding lots of bushes, sticks and little trees etc..

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1792-e1618407433902.jpeg)
I built this wooden retaining wall the run along the front the of the foundry. Simple job..just Campbells bridge ties stained with A&I and stacked in place.

That's all for now.

Hey Steve:

Looking just great so far. Can't wait to see more.

Karl

Thanks Karl.

I worked on some detailing over the weekend. Lots of castings placed..lots more to go of course.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1800-e1618793127499.jpeg)
The rear loading dock area here.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1799-e1618793212904.jpeg)
The side area is getting filled out a bit.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1803-e1618793256654.jpeg)
I put together this truck from a Wheel Works kit and added a bunch of castings in and around the shed.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1801-e1618793307616.jpeg)
Side view.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/04/img_1802-e1618793335159.jpeg)
Rear view of the shed.

I'm starting to finish up the detail castings on these little areas, next step is adding some more detailed foliage. I started planning out the area directly to the right where the station is also. I believe that will be my next area to tackle.

Thanks for following along.

Looking fantastic, Steve.

Love the detail of the trusses looking in the gable end of the shed.

Cheers, Mark.

Beautifully detailed Steve..... 8)

Hey Steve:

Love the shack. Beautiful job.

Karl

Hey:

All those buildings are just beautiful.

Karl

Steve, your attention to detail is outstanding. Where do you get all of the detail castings that you use ?   Jeff

Thanks everyone!

Jeff- Most of the detail castings I've been using in these last couple scenes were from the casting sets for Sewall's Foundry and Wilfrid G. Brambell offered by RailroadKits- and I still have a ton left over. I also have a couple pretty big boxes of castings I've collected that I pick from. Some leftover from kits and others I bought individually. Usually if the kit provides detail on all 4 sides and I know I'll only be showing the front I end up with a decent amount of leftovers. Tichy has some nice simple plastic sets of drums, acetylene tanks, milk jugs and a few other useful sort of generic detail items that are a really good value- I think its 96 55 gallon drums for $20.00.

Steve


I spent some time this evening getting caught up with your build thread, beautiful work. I love all the details. I look forward to your continued progress.  Thank you for sharing this with us.

Thanks John

Hey Steve:

I have lots of castings too. Bought them over many years.

Karl

Steve,


I've said it before, but your coloring and weathering are fantastic! Nobody captures "dusty" like you - my hay fever acts up whenever you post pics.


I've got a load of unused castings too (they're easier than kits to fly back from EXPOs and NNGC's with). My long-term plan, once I complete a couple more buildings is to spend many happy years littering my layout with details (as liberally as you do) and funky narrow gauge rolling stock and vehicles.


John

Steve


Wow that is some really nice detailing work.




Jerry

Thanks John, I really appreciate it! I try to trust my gut when it comes to coloring and weathering and it just comes out dirty and dusty. Just what feels right to me.

Thanks a lot Jerry! I really enjoy detailing little scenes. It's probably my favorite portion of the hobby.

Small update today just to show the direction I'm headed at the moment.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1845.jpeg)
I glued Chippy Hollow in it's home and back filled the area between the tracks with some plaster. This is always tricky but I cover the structure with some paper to help avoid any plaster blobs. Also the plaster is mixed THICK.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1846.jpeg)
I started mapping out the road with a sharpie.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1847.jpeg)
I thought this area was a little too flat and boring so I started building it up with some foam. I try to never go more than a few inches without some sort of up or down in the scenery between structures.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1848.jpeg)
Built it up some more.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1849.jpeg)
I added some filler next to the station.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1855.jpeg)
Sort of an idea of how the scene will flow. The areas in the front will be the station and the branchline bucket coaling station.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1856.jpeg)
I covered the foam with brown dyed plaster and stuck a few rock castings in it while it was still wet.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1857.jpeg)
Basecoat of plaster for the road.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1890.jpeg)
Plaster road is colored and the first base of dirt is down.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1891.jpeg)
I started adding the layering of foam and debris..still wet in this photo. I plan on having this little hill covered in trees, bushes and sticks.

That's all for now...Once I get the hill detailed I can add the station and start tying everything together.

Thanks for following along.

Hey Steve:

wow really looking great. Just can't wait to see it in person.

Karl

Thanks Karl

Hey Steve:

You are quite welcome.

Karl

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1896-e1620590497971.jpeg)
I added some more foliage to the little hill here.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1897-e1620590540714.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1898-e1620590562451.jpeg)

I'm almost done working on this area next step will be working towards to front.

Damn Steve, you have one mighty fine looking railroad!

;D ;D ;D

Thanks Bruce!

Steve,


This is one of my favorite threads/layouts. Your eye for color & texture is really outstanding and so consistently applied. What I mean by that "consistently applied" is what I felt at George's F&SM...the weathering and color palette (not to mention the unimaginable level of detail) is so consistent across the whole layout - it's like he applied the overall weathering thru a sprinkler system  ??? Ok, getting carried away.

Thanks John! I'm glad you like what I'm doing. George is my original modeling influence and still probably my biggest one so the comparison is flattering. I still reference George's original book often if I'm stuck trying to figure out how to transition from one area to the next or just for some mini scene ideas.

One of my favorite RR.  Just love the way you take a building and detail it into a natural looking setting.


Jerry

HeySteve:

All is looking just beautiful. Keep up the good work.

Karl

Thanks everyone!

Been a little bit slow lately but I've been making a little progress on the station area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_1994-e1622724976855.jpeg)
I started filling in the scenery in this area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1915.jpeg)
This is a before of some of the area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_1996-e1622725176958.jpeg)
The station is glued in place and I've begun tying the scenery into it.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_2015-e1622725264670.jpeg)
This shot gives a little better idea of how the area flows together.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_2016-e1622725346886.jpeg)
Now that I've got the basic scenery done behind it I can start installing Cartwrights into it's home.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_2018-e1622725425878.jpeg)
I added a piece of 2" foam to fill in the area next to Cartwrights. The track will run across it of course but I need something else in the area between the double tracks and the Cartwrights siding..something to think about.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_2017.jpeg)
I couldn't get the foam to match the track height using any combo of foam blocks so I ended up using 4 paint stirrers glued together to give me the correct height.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_2020-e1622725703997.jpeg)
I also glued the water tank/bucket coaling station in it's home as well.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/05/img_1908.jpeg)
Before I added the water tank/bucket coaling station I put in this little fence scene between road and Chippy Hollow. It's still wet in this picture. Using foam as base makes it really easy to build one of these fences. I stick a toothpick every 4-5 scale feet and stick a scale 4x4 into the hole with some glue then when it dries I add the cross pieces.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/06/img_2021-e1622725971881.jpeg)
Another overall shot with the newly added structures.

I've had all these dioramas sitting around my workshop waiting to be damaged so I'm happy to get them in their homes.

I'm still working on Crocker Bros which will sit to the right of Chippy Hollow a feet inches down once that's done I'll start figuring out what smaller buildings I need to add to fill in the areas around Cartwrights and on both the front and rear of the double track.

Thanks for following along. Hopefully the layout photos make sense of the overall layout.

Steve,

Appreciate the update. The overall view of the layout gives one a better view of how it looks, which is fantastic.

Tom  ;D

I always appreciate room views, that show benchwork, aisles, unfinished parts.  I learn from observing, and I actually find it inspiring to see real layouts and how they evolve. 


dave

Looking great, Steve.

Beautiful finishing.

Cheers, Mark.

Thanks Tom, Dave and Mark. I really appreciate it!

Before I started the layout I spent a good amount of time trying to find photos of layouts in progress. It's really helpful to see the steps that get a scene from A to B especially the messy parts when it really doesn't look like much.

Looking mighty fine, Steve!

Always enjoy checking on this thread.

Thanks Craig!

Awesome modeling Steve

Doug

These are terrific pictures of your layout Steve and there is some very nice modeling and scenery.  Great!

Agree with all the other comments Steve,
Wonderful modeling and beautiful scenes.  You have a great eye for a realistic flow, coloring and texture to your structures and scenery !!
And thanks as well for the pictures of the in process scenes!  As you noted there is an awful lot to learn and understand in your approach to modeling a scene with depth and elevation changes.
Thanks again for sharing and I will continue to follow along with your Cypress Creek RR progress,
All the best,
--Paul

Hey Steve:

Everything looks just beautiful. I can't wait to see your RR.

Karl

Morning Steve
Just went through your build thread. Very  nice work. Great progress. Love all the pictures.
Keep em coming.  :)
Mario
FW&RRry

Steve looks awesome.  Like I've said before everything just fits together just perfectly.


Love this RR.


Jerry

Thanks everyone!

Hey Steve, you are doing a great job, as usual, with your layout build. I learn something with almost every post of yours. Thanks for sharing with all of us.   Jeff

Hey Steve:

You are quite welcome.

Karl

Absolutely fandamntastic!

Thanks guys! I've been super busy lately but I should have another update soon. I've been working on some smaller uninteresting bits lately like overhead light replacements and some switch machine installation.

I got quite a few things done on the layout over the last month but not much interesting, mostly finishing some switch machine installs and adding some wiring drops. I did get Crocker Bros installed and I started working the area around it.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/08/img_2539-e1629574478927.jpeg)
I glued Crocker Bros down and added the track going to it. I also started adding some trees to the hillside behind it.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/08/img_2540.jpeg)
This shot hopefully gives an idea of the flow of the area or at least some idea of where I'm heading. The road behind the station will continue along in front of Crocker Bros and I'll be adding something small between Chippy Hollow and Crocker Bros. Maybe some store fronts or light commercial buildings, I'm not sure yet. I'm trying to get the road and all the track mapped out so I can decide what I can make fit in the remaining areas.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/08/img_2541-e1629574727559.jpeg)
I removed everything from this center section so I can finish the hillside and the track along the back wall. I have a few structures and dioramas to fill this area in once I get that completed. My latest build of Barnstead Lumber will fit in the back area, also my O'Neills diorama will help fill it in as well.

I've been jumping around a bit trying to work my way forward so I can really dig into the super detailing of the more foreground structures. I really like superdetailing small scenes but they take lots of time and sometimes it feels like I'm not making any progress on the overall layout if I do too much of it. Once I get the majority of the non-foreground areas finished I can really focus on that.

Thanks for following along...hopefully it won't be another month for a decent update.

You're doing a great job Steve.

Steve


Your layout looks great - I especially like the elevation changes. It really shows off your beautiful structures. The time your spending with the "uninteresting stuff" is time well spent. You would be surprised how interesting the "uninteresting stuff"  is to our forum members. Everyone has a little different way of handling what I call the mechanics of a layout - I would be interested in some pictures of that, too.

Looking great, Steve.

Its lots of fun watching and reading about your progress.  I always look forward to your posts.

Cheers, Mark.

That was a real treat to see how your progress is coming along.

Thanks everyone!

John, I'll post some more updates of the more mundane stuff so everyone can see how I work out areas and smaller problems.

Thanks for the update.


Just a pleasure to see you progress.
I agree with John on more pictures of that kind.


Jerry

Thanks Jerry

Todays update...I'm spending some time filling in some little areas with scenery and tying things together. I think this falls under the not so interesting category but the feedback from my last posts was that some of you guys wanted to see some of the "filler" stuff. I also started to plan out the small area between Crocker Bros and Chippy Hollow.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2562.jpeg)
I had some holes in between the foam I needed to fill between the tracks and the mountain. I used some newspaper to fill the hole then I just covered it with some plaster of paris mixed with a little brown paint (doesn't matter which color- just want to kill the white). I mix my plaster pretty thick- like ice cream consistency. Adding craft paint thickens it up a bit too. The thicker the better to help fill and prevent drips.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2563.jpeg)
Here is the area after it dried. I already dumped a little pile of dirt (real dirt, ground up using a coffee bean grinder).

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2564.jpeg)
Same thing was done to this area. This is the kind of project that only takes 20-30 minutes but I'm never motivated to do because it feels mundane and boring. The mountain has many bare and unfinished spots as well...I'll get to those later. The floor is a huge mess due to cutting and fitting foam bits for some other spots I'm fleshing out...more on that later.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2571-e1630509156204.jpeg)
Adding the dirt and some basic foam ground cover to start. I can reach this area from the front of the layout so I'm not sure concerned with completely finishing it before I start to work the area in front of it. If you compare the before and after pictures you'll see I added more foliage to the hillside as well.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2566-e1630509226709.jpeg)
Ground cover added here...most of it will not be able to be seen well from the front or side of the layout so I won't be adding lots of details trackside here.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2565-e1630509287934.jpeg)
Another shot of the same...The track still needs some weathering but I won't go crazy because the area directly in front will most likely be littered with structures and I'm thinking I may even elevate it an inch or 2 to add some variety.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2581.jpeg)
Different angle...same area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2579-e1630509406742.jpeg)
I started to stage this area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2580-e1630509574971.jpeg)
The brick building is The Gazette from Model Masterpieces, I repurposed it as a small engine parts and repair business. It's an older plaster kit, pretty decent quality and it only took me 2 days to put together (I really dislike plaster and I bought it because I thought it was resin..unfortunately for brick your options are limited to plaster, super warp-prone laser cut wood or plaster that really lacks detail.) The building to the left is Jerry's Small Engine Repair from Bar Mills. I thought it was a cool little structure, I still need to add some signage and details. Nice little kit, easy to put together but maybe a little expensive for the size ($47.95). I need to go through my details bin and find some that will work with this area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2583.jpeg)
I started to plan the road and the concrete parking lot for the area between the 2 structures. I did end up pouring the road last night but I've yet to take a picture of it. I may start to detail the road this evening.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2582.jpeg)
I staged 2 of the Ed Fulasz/Railroadkits buildings I had completed on my shelf to get a feel for the area here. The road will run across the front I believe but I haven't committed to anything yet. I also haven't committed to using these 2 structures here, they were just the ones I had that fit the type of building I think I want here. I might use something shorter so I don't completed obscure the feed mill. Maybe something shorter and long. I recall a diorama Karl O. did that had a small produce structure that was really cool, low and long. Maybe something like that.

That's it for today..Hopefully this gives an idea what direction I'm going. The tough part is I don't know where I'm going until I get there so it's difficult to show my plan since I barely have one.

One of the things on the wish list is a covered vehicle bridge so I'm probably going to add some more water to the area to the right.

Thanks for following along...as usual any feedback is appreciated.

When you're looking at 'urban buildings' like those Fulasz brick structures, it's worth remembering that downtown real estates was pretty expensive and therefore structures tended to fill the full lot.  From a modeling perspective, they should generally be jammed together.   2 or 3 structures can make up a block, with an alley if you don't want a full street.

Those cliffs are pretty awesome (like the coloring), but looking at them from my amateur geology eyes, it's not quite clear how they formed.  Are you thinking about a river running parallel to the tracks? 

dave

Dave,

I only placed those there to get an idea if that will work there. I'll definitely add at least 1 more building to the row but probably 2 or 3 to completed to strip. I'm not really sure how it flows or feels just yet. I'll have to think on it a bit...doesn't feel quite right as of now.

When I did the rock cliffs I was sort of emulating the rock faces you see on the sign of the turnpike, I believe they may be due to blasting but I really don't know. I know nothing about Geology so I'm just going off what will give a cool dramatic effect without having to take up lots of real estate with a long mountain hill that tapers across the front of the layout.

I like the way your rock cliffs turned out Steve.  Also your vegetation with the rock cliffs looks  amazing also.  Great job.

Really quality work, all the way around!

Great job, Steve.

Looks great, Steve.

I find your not so interesting stuff more interesting than some of your really interesting stuff!  Keep it coming.

Cheers, Mark.

Steve, your rocks are very impressive, very realistic

Eric

Nice job, Steve.  Your work is convincing!  ~mike c

I have to agree with the others on those rock cliffs. I really like the coloring an vegetation. Nice.

Bernd

Hey Steve:

Looking beautiful. Just love the mountain scenery.

Karl

Steve your "not so interesting" category is just filled with wonderful ideas and work!!


One of the many reasons so many people follow your work!!


Jerry

Impressive work Steve. Gives all of us some interesting ideas and perhaps motivation. Jim

Thanks for the positive feedback everyone!

I spent some time going over your latest update. I really like the way you did the rock walls too, looking fabulous !!
Keep the pictures coming. can you put up the link to your personal build website page sometime again?  Thanks

Rich

Hey Steve:

You are quite welcome as always. Keep the pic flowing.

Karl

I've hit a roadblock on my layout and thought I'd do some replays of your progress, went from page 1-19 and your work never gets old, fantastic work and appreciate the messy bare wood built up and foam board, you are extremely talented. I really need to get my act together and post my layout.

Thanks everyone. I haven't done much on the layout in the last couple weeks but I have started a couple new buildings for it so once they start to come together I'll post a progress report. I've also spent quite a bit of time just painting castings for the layout.

I'm glad I can give you a little inspiration with my work Lynn. You should definitely post some of you work and if you need a little feedback on something you're stuck on I'll be glad to help if I can.

Rich, the link is www.scalemodelworkshop.com but I haven't updated in a while.

I started to move forward a bit over the last few days. I started to work on the concrete near the small engine business. I also started working on some of the other side of the layout.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2584-e1632354826532.jpeg)
I use plaster of paris for my concrete. I spread it thin and use a 6" spackle blade to even it out. I try to make it pretty soup so it levels out a bit easier.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2585-e1632354913157.jpeg)
I use a sharp pencil to draw the expansion joints etc..

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2586.jpeg)
I carve the cracks in with a pretty dull Walmart folding knife.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2670.jpeg)
I put the structures back in place make sure the plaster was level enough to work with.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2675-e1632355044713.jpeg)
Before I started gluing the structures in place I wanted to semi-finish the scenery behind them. I haven't weathered the concrete either...that will be one of the last steps.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2673-e1632355117590.jpeg)
I painted up some castings for the little work shed. I didn't end up using the castings that came with the kit. These are from my collection of castings I think a few are FSM and the others might be BIS.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2679.jpeg)
I glued the structures in place and added some basic ground cover. The concrete still hasn't been weathered yet, that will come next.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2587-e1632355406485.jpeg)
I placed Barnstead Lumber in the general area it will sit.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/09/img_2588-e1632355463192.jpeg)
With O'Neills and Barnstead sitting in their places I can started to get an idea how to fill in the rest.

That's all for now. I already started on a few structures that will sit between the back of Barnstead and the tracks the go along the mountain.

Once the scenery dries around the small engine repair I'll start adding some of the surrounding details and building up the area.

Thanks for following along.

Top drawer work as always, Steve. Love seeing this large scale placement take place.

Steve so good to see a new post.  Great work and laying out of the new area!


Jerry

Thanks Craig, Thanks Jerry!

I started adding some details to the newest area of the layout over the last few days. I also got some base color to the concrete down.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2701.jpeg)
The concrete has to first bit of weathering. I'm running into an issue where either the wet water or the thinned glue is causing some discoloration on my concrete roads. I have to do a few experiments as to why it's happening. I'll be able to hide this with some dirt, weeds and maybe a few vehicles in the meantime.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2699.jpeg)
I liked the way the concrete walkway came out. It was entirely by accident that it got some broken up. When I was carving it all of the plaster started falling apart, I glued it back down and it ended up a pretty beat up walkway.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2697.jpeg)
I started adding a few details around the structures.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2698.jpeg)
I'm not sure where this tank came from but I made the concrete base from a block of green foam coated in some of the stucco from liquitex.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2700.jpeg)
More junk on the other side.

I painted a whole ton of castings and when I went to add them I couldn't find many of them. Turns out I forgot I put them in another box so I'll be adding a bunch more next time I get to working on this area.

I have a pretty big scratchbuild I'm working on for the other area of the layout. It's nearly complete so that will fill in a large area on the backside. Hopefully I'll be finishing up this weekend for that one.

Thanks for following along everyone.

Steve,
Awesome work!  I am always impressed with how you are able to blend all these different scenic elements together.  Your layout just looks beautiful.

Brucer

8) 8) 8)

Very very nice , pavement looks great and so do the shrubs and bushes.

Everything looks great Steve.

Another great update Steve !!
Again everything blends together so well.  And really like the base and the tank, weathering is spot on to my eye.
Looking forward to seeing the additional details and your scratch build ...
--Paul

As Bob Ross said "These are happy accidents"

Great work Steve

Doug

Steve another wonderful update.  The concrete coloring is prefect and the cracked sidewalk right on.


Just love following this thread so interesting on how you do things!!


Jerry

Thanks everyone!

Hey Steve:

Just went through all 20 pages checking out pictures and progress. Looking just beautiful so far. Can't wait to actually see the RR.

Karl

Thanks Karl!

I just semi-finished one of the larger structures for the rear area of the layout.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2733-e1634671510639.jpeg)
This is one of the structures that I used to clear out some of my spare parts box. Windows are mostly Tichy, doors are FSM castings from Railroadkits. The stone base walls are FSM castings from Wilfred Brambell's I believe. I didn't have enough stone castings for the whole structure so I made a few resin copies and used those on the rear of the structure. They aren't nearly as clean but they won't be really visible.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2734-e1634672329586.jpeg)
The rooftop cyclones are from Jennings Lumber from SS LTD. I find it easier to confine my build to the limitations of some of the castings I already have, These castings were made for a specific roof pitch so I used that pitch for this project. Same rules applied to the stone base, I could only make the clapboard walls as long as the stone base was.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2735-e1634672391910.jpeg)
This area isn't really finished being detailed, will need some trucks and other things but I can detail it once I set it in place on the layout and I'd rather do that.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2736-e1634672581126.jpeg)
The Gold Medal sign I found on the internet.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2737-e1634672622328.jpeg)
The dust collector is also from Jennings Lumber.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2738-e1634672658245.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2739-e1634672683528.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2740-e1634672712357.jpeg)

That's all 4 sides of it.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2732.jpeg)
It's going to sit about right here. It will be about 3" higher and I'm planning on having a little river in front of it.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2731.jpeg)
Another shot to give an idea of placement.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2730.jpeg)

I didn't get super crazy with detailing it because it's sitting pretty far back and it's going to have a whole town of structures in front of it.

Thanks for following along. I'm going to try to continue building towards the left of this structure to fill that back area.

Hey Steve:

Looking just beautiful as always. Love the colors you used on Pierce Baking. Roof looks great too.

Karl

Really nice, Steve.

Another great addition.  It will be fun watching this area take shape.

Cheers, Mark.

Very neat building, Steve. Seems like you have captured strong elements of Barongoulds and G Wilikers. Great structure.

Looks great , almost a waste to put it in the back , you set the bar high for your front side buildings  ;)

Another unique and extremely well composed structure Steve !!
Always enjoy your updates and how you are working these gems into the larger whole.
Thanks again for sharing your great modeling,
--Paul

Steve,

Love the Pierce Baking structure, weathering and colors.


As Paul said well composed and amazingly natural fitting in the location.

Tom  ;D

Great job on the bakery Steve.....the layout keeps getting better and better.  8)

Thanks for all the positive feedback everyone!

Vince you're correct I definitely got some inspiration from both of those kits, mainly the ramp area from G. Wilikers and the color scheme of Barongould. I had originally wanted either one of those kits for this area but I couldn't find them for the right price. Also it seemed kinda wrong to put either one of those kits in the background since they are such nice structures.

I'm thinking some apartment housing to the left of this structure maybe mixed with a few small commercial buildings. I started building a few things last night..we'll see how it all plays out.

Awesome work as always, Steve! What's your overall progress of completion for the layout now?

Thanks Craig!

It's hard to say but I think I'm around 60-70% done. I have quite a few completed dioramas I still need to plug in that will fill up a decent amount. I plan on getting heavier with the detailing as I move towards the front of the layout so that will probably slow my progress a bit.

I have a pretty good rough plan for most of the kits I own but haven't built yet. I still will probably need a few smaller filler kits and mini-scenes to connect everything as I start to pull it together. I do have a tendency to overestimate how much I can fit in a small space. I painted and weathered about 100 castings for this baking company and I didn't end up adding most of them. Good news is they are ready to go for another area.

Excellent work on the bakery building Steve.

Thanks Carl!

Always enjoy catching up on your layout thread, and admiring the level of quality of your craftsmanship.  I know this is somewhat subjective to each one of us modelers, but I believe you strike a perfect balance between weathered, used and lived in vs where buildings become dilapidated and unfit to be used.

Thanks swisstrain! I try to model what feels natural to me and it tends to sort of sit in that area, not destroyed but a bit worn and beat up. Enough weathering to give it some character I guess.

What an excellent job on that bakery Steve!


One of the reasons this is one of my favorite RR!


Jerry

Thanks Jerry!

I knocked out another structure for the back row this week.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2751-e1635332178424.jpeg)
This one is O'Douls flophouse from Bar Mills. I bought this one from Bar Mills at one of the Expos. A pretty quick and easy build although I was missing quite a few parts (The kit was missing all the stripwood and there were not enough railings to finish the lower level). I had originally thought I'd do 2 of these kits next to each other in different colors but I've decided to go a different way.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2752.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2753.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2754.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/10/img_2755.jpeg)
I believe this is where it will sit, but I may end up putting another building between it and the bakery. I'm still working out the flow of this area. The elevations aren't fixed yet either.

Last night I primed all the parts for the next structure in the row.

Looks great, Steve. I like the gray color of the siding. How did you do it?

Hey Steve:

The structure looks just great. Can't wait to see it installed on the layout.

Karl

Thanks Karl and Vince!

Vince, it was super easy for this one. I used Apple Barrel Pavement thinned to a wash (I'm thinking maybe 6:1 maybe 8:1 I'm not sure. I kept adding water to a mostly empty bottle until it felt right to me. Of course experiment on scrap and make sure you give it time to dry. It really lightens up once it dries.). I didn't prime any of the wood parts only the plastic or laserboard with khaki. Everything got a wash followed by Linen color dry-brushing. I've been using the same thinned out Pavement color for weathering my shingles also. Just spray them with khaki and use the wash over them followed by some dry brushing.

Great looking build.

Quote from: SteveCuster on October 27, 2021, 09:37:21 AM
Thanks Karl and Vince!

Vince, it was super easy for this one. I used Apple Barrel Pavement thinned to a wash (I'm thinking maybe 6:1 maybe 8:1 I'm not sure. I kept adding water to a mostly empty bottle until it felt right to me. Of course experiment on scrap and make sure you give it time to dry. It really lightens up once it dries.). I didn't prime any of the wood parts only the plastic or laserboard with khaki. Everything got a wash followed by Linen color dry-brushing. I've been using the same thinned out Pavement color for weathering my shingles also. Just spray them with khaki and use the wash over them followed by some dry brushing.

Thx. I'll give it a try.

Excellent coloring on the building!


I can't wait to see this scene completed.


Jerry

Steve,
NICE!!!!

Thanks Curt, Jerry and Loren!

I managed to get another structure finished for this area of the last week.

I started working on a kit from Nick and Nora designs that I intended to make into a boarding house to sit next to the tenement structure. When I start the assembly of the kit I discovered all the clapboard walls were upside down. I contacted them and they told me they would send out some replacement walls. While I'm waiting for walls to arrive I looked over my shelf of half built kits to see if there was anything I could salvage or turn into something.

I had started one of the Downtown Deco Addams Ave Part 4 kits a few months back but I was unhappy with how it was going so I parked it. I decided to revisit it and try to turn it into something since the walls and windows were all colored it really only needed the roof and some finishing touches. I ended up finishing it this week, here are the photos of how it turned out and how it fits into the overall picture.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2795-e1636314757156.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2796.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2797-e1636314801781.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2798-e1636314829351.jpeg)
It's not perfect but it'll do fine in the back.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2799.jpeg)
Depending on what happens with the Nick and Nora kit it will either sit here or a few more inches to the left.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2800.jpeg)
https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2800.jpeg
Here's another overall shot of the flow of this area. Of course the elevations aren't there yet and everything is just placed where it will go while I try to visualize how it all will come together.

Thanks for following along.

WOW, Steve...another beauty!


Nobody does dusty like you ;)


John

Great looking build Steve.

Steve, the buildings look great. I also like the cliff-scape in the background - very dramatic.

Vince

Thanks John, Curt and Vince!

Hey Steve:

the layout is looking just beautiful as always. Keep the pics A flowing.

Karl

Nice finish on the hotel Steve.....well done.  8)

Hey Steve:

Hotel looks just great.

Karl

I really like the awnings, another thing "more common in prototype than models."


dave

Really  a great job Steve.  I like your finish of the bricks, and it is a good looking building

Well if that's not perfect I need new glasses!  Those awning are worth the price of admission!


Wonderful save on the building!


Jerry

Thanks everyone!

Steve,

Just getting back to your thread again.  Beautiful work on the scenery, structures and overall layout progress.
Can you tell me what color, paints, and perhaps how you achieved the blue coloring on the bakery? That is a very nice looking structure
as all of your structures are.

Rich

Thanks Rich, The blue was colored using AK Interactive Anthracite applied over walls that had been primed with A&I, before I add the top layer of paint I covered the walls in mineral spirits. After the paint started to dry I used a wire brush to pull some of it up and weather it.

I finished a covered bridge for the road leading up to these new structures. I took some inspiration from George Sellios "Coca-Cola" bridge on the F&SM and some from a similar bridge in my town.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2807-e1636895933845.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2808-e1636896060106.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2809-e1636896086501.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2810.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2811.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/11/img_2812-e1636896152288.jpeg)
This gives an idea of how the structure will sit on the layout. Of course the foam pieces are all just scraps and nothing is cut or fit.

Thanks for following along.

Beautiful job on the covered bridge Steve.

Love that bridge, Steve.

Would love to more of the interior. Do you have any work in progress shots?

Now that's a bridge with a lot of character.....well done Steve.  8)

Paint color and shingles on the bridge look great!


dave

Steve beautiful coloring on that bridge.  It reminds me of the one in Tyler State Park in Newtown, PA.


Question for you is your track on Homasote??


Jerry

Excellent job on the bridge, your layout is a real treat to browse over.

Thanks everyone!

Sorry Craig I didn't take any work in progress shots but I'll post a few more of the interior next time I go to the workshop.

Jerry, Most of the track is on homasote over 1/2" plywood.

Hey Steve:

the covered bridge looks just beautiful. You gonna give it A name? Does the bridge in you town have A name on it. If so why not use that.

Karl

Great looking bridge Steve,


Are you considering a large sign or stencil? George's really is a signature structure.


Just a thought...John

Thanks Karl! I'm not sure about a name yet..I don't want to name it after the one in town because it's really not a model of that bridge, just inspired by it.

Thanks John! I do like the Coca Cola stencil on George's bridge but I'm not sure if I'm going to put anything on the side of it or not. George's goes over a road so it makes sense to target advertising there. This will go over water so I'm not so sure, also before I built this I looked at lots of covered bridges both present and from the past and I never saw any advertisement on them, not that it would stop me from doing that.

Hey Steve:

You are quite welcome.

Karl

Hello everyone,

I made some decent progress on the rear area working towards to the front over the last couple days. I added another structure to the layout, Builders in Scale Weiry and Sons.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2021/12/img_2958.jpeg)
I added this scene to the layout (I did a build thread for this kit also). Adding this scene allowed me to start to get the flow of the rear area a little better.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2960.jpeg)
I cut out some pieces of foam to support this area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2961.jpeg)
Another layer of foam to get the base height I wanted, then I started laying out the buildings so I can get an idea of how everything will fit and how much room I have to work with.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2962.jpeg)
I added some more foam over the rear section and started carving the hills/banks of the river area. The bakery is now glued in place here.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2964-e1641220053679.jpeg)
I added the stone support for the covered bridge.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2966.jpeg)
Added the culverts at the end and placed the 2 other structures in their spots to mark the locations.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2967-e1641220169986.jpeg)
I filled in the hillside and added some rock castings.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2968-e1641220214128.jpeg)
I finished covering the banks with plaster, adding the rock castings and I also started a small road on the top of the little hill.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2975.jpeg)
Colored the castings and glued the hotel in its place.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2976-e1641220332538.jpeg)
Glued the tenement building in place as well.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2993-e1641220406348.jpeg)
Base of ground cover was added and I started playing with some fences.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2994.jpeg)
I decided I wanted a little fenced in yard in this area filled with junk.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2995.jpeg)
I added a little shed and a bunch of junk then I fenced it in. I also added a bit more vegetation to the area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2996.jpeg)
Some junk was added along the front also. I added a fire hydrant and a mailbox.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2998.jpeg)
This picture gives a good shot of the flow of the area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_2999.jpeg)
From the other side..

That's it for now. I have a few more details to add then I start working my way forward. I'm trying to get this area mostly complete before I add anything in front of it so I don't have to reach over my work.

Thanks for following along.

Steve,

This is one of my favorite threads to follow. It just gets better each week. Thanks for taking the time to  post and show us your excellent layout.

Tom  ;D

Steve,
Great job on that covered bridge !!!
Tommy

WOW!  Looks like it's going to be banner year 2022 for the Cypress Creek RR.


This just such a fine railroad and your work is so exceptional!


One of my favorite RR.


Can't wait to see what's next.


Happy New Year Steve!!  :)


Jerry

Thanks Tom, Tom and Jerry!

Happy New Year to you as well!

Incredible looking modeling Steve.

Stunning how well this area is looking with all those grand structures.....great work Steve.  8)

Thanks Curt and Greg!

Hey Steve:

The RR & scenery look just great.

Karl

Steve,


When I look at your modeling I am struck not only by how well you execute each structure but also your ability to place them on the layout in a way that entices the viewer's eye into the scene.  Thanks for taking the time to share your modelign with us!

Thanks Karl and Jerry!

I really appreciate that Jerry, I spend a lot of time placing and thinking and rethinking about where things look and feel most natural while also trying to showcase the most interesting parts of the buildings. Your feedback lets me know I'm heading the right direction.

I spent a little time today getting the other side of the river bank built up out of foam.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3001.jpeg)
I needed to add a support under the next diorama but also give myself enough room to still work the area. I added a few cross braces and cut a piece of 2" foam but I left a hole where I could still get in and work.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3002.jpeg)
I marked off where Barnstead Lumber will go. I also mocked up a stone retaining wall. I couldn't afford the space of an embankment here due to the size of the next diorama that will get placed to the left of Barnstead.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3013.jpeg)
I hacked a punch of foam to fill in the area between Barnstead and the other side of the layout. The covered bridge isn't glued down but the supports are. I won't add the bridge till I pour the water.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3014-e1641351174313.jpeg)
Different shot of the area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3007-e1641351224559.jpeg)
Shot from the other side.

That's all for today. The glue is drying, and I filled a few rock casting molds. Next step will be filling in the hillside with some plaster.

Thanks for following along and for all the positive feedback everyone!

Steve,


Fourth photo is just one of the ones that shows your ability to draw the viewer's eye into the scene.  That riverbed draws attention into the entire layout, all the way to the far end of the room.

Beautiful job so far. I can't wait to see it with the river in place.

Just beautiful as always...Great work!


John

Thanks Jerry, Curt and John!

I thoroughly enjoy following your thread.  Besides admiring your outstanding craftsmanship and what you do with your structures, I like your approach to finding creative ways to embed the dioramas in your layout and tie them all together.  Please keep the thread going.

Urs

Hey Steve:

All I can say is just beautifully done as always. I can't wait to see your RR in person one of theses days.

Karl

Thanks for all the positive feedback everyone!

For todays update I added some rock castings, plaster and some basic ground cover to the river/creek bed. I also added the track that runs to the lumber company.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3015-e1642039870684.jpeg)
I added some plaster rock castings and used plaster to make the hills/banks. I also ran plaster all along the bottom of the river.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3030.jpeg)
Basic ground cover is in. I'll still be adding more junk to the bottom of the water plus trees and bushes along the hills.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/inkedimg_3031_li.jpg)
I glued down the track. I'm working on what I can put in this red area, it's pretty narrow so my options are a little limited. I ordered a kit from Showcase Miniatures I'm going to try to use here. I can't move forward with this area until I get this little strip figured out.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3032-e1642040247419.jpeg)
Shot of the area from the other side.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3033.jpeg)
While I'm waiting for the kit to arrive for area above I built this little service station for this area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3035.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3034.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/18-171215212541.jpeg)
Some of you may notice I took major inspiration from the little service station on the F&SM here.

Next on the agenda is the concrete that will run under this service station and then up to the covered bridge. I also need to drop some wiring leads to the new stretch of track and install a few switch machines.

Thanks for following along.

Looks great Steve.  I really love the covered bridge was that a kit or did you scratch build it??  You did an excellent job on the coloring and weathering.


An a great start on the service station.


Jerry

Hey Steve:

As usual all I can saw is WOW!!!! Love the gas station. Can't wait to see more.

Karl

Beautiful job so far. Is the stream bed going to remain dry?

Good job with the service station Steve.....well done.  8)

Thanks everyone!

Jerry, I built the bridge from scratch using a local covered bridge as an example with some inspiration from the one on the F&SM. I'm glad you like it!

Curt, No the creek with have water but it will probably remain dry until I finish almost everything else in the area around it. I don't want to accidentally mess the water up or get any white glue on the surface after I pour it.

Steve




Fantastic work, I'm really enjoying watching your layout progress. Love all the details.

The service station is looking good, Steve.

It makes sense to change the direction of the fall on the lean-to roof.

Cheers, Mark.

Thanks John and Mark!

Good Afternoon Steve,


I have been popping in and out of the forum the past year or so. Several house projects have slowed down my forum viewing. My layout construction is in the home stretch, if there is such a thing. I hope to post some recent details soon. I want to let you know that you are doing a marvelous job on your layout. Just beautiful scenery and structures.
Keep up the wonderful work.


All the best,


Frank / Erieman

I'm really enjoying watching your scenes come to life.  Almost makes me want to start working on sceniking my "Plywood and Styrofoam" RR.  The FSM gas station will probably be my first true scratchbuilt structure, someday.   ::)


Jeff

hey Steve:

You are q

I've been making some decent progress on the layout over the last few days. I added the base concrete under the service station and the road the leads up to the covered bridge. I also added a small structure, Val-U Fuels from Showcase Miniatures and I detailed around it. I also poured my first batch of envirotex for the stream/river.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3090.jpeg)
Val-U Fuels added in its spot...

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3091-e1643637449486.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3092-e1643637487595.jpeg)
The concrete under the service station. Same method as the rest of the layout, plaster of paris painted with thinned gray chalk paint and weathered with ground up charcoal briquets.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3094-e1643637561618.jpeg)
The service station is glued down in its final home.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3095.jpeg)
Added the ground cover around the fuel company.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3096.jpeg)
Detailed the loading dock on the rear of the structure.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3097-e1643637049229.jpeg)
More details added on the dock and around the structure.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3098.jpeg)
More of the scene.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3104.jpeg)
This shot shows the flow of the area a bit better.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3105.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3100.jpeg)
I detailed the interior of the garage.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3108.jpeg)
I started running the fence along the rear of the garage.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/01/img_3110.jpeg)
First pour of the envirotex is down. I plan on running out today to get more.

Thanks for following along, more updates later. I painted tons of castings all ready for around the service station next step is detailing the area and pouring another envirotex coat.

That is some excellent modeling Steve.

Steve


Beautiful! Your layout is really looking great  - I really enjoyed the progress photographs. It looks better with every project you complete.

This is why it's one of my favorite railroads!  Everything done so tastefully!!


Just a pleasure to follow along!


Jerry

Such a great looking layout .

Looking terrific, Steve.

Cheers, Mark.

Very nice Steve, looks quite natural !!
And each piece adds another dimension to your masterpiece.
I'm enjoying seeing your progress as it unfolds,
Thanks,
--Paul

Thanks for all the positive feedback, everyone!

I added some fencing, vegetation and details around the service station last night.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/img_3113-e1643753470318.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/img_3114-e1643753518440.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/img_3115.jpeg)
Filling in the junk along the fence and in this corner. Still lots to go.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/img_3116-e1643753576687.jpeg)
I added some castings around the structure to help tie it in and bring it to life. I also had some major gaps under the structure due to a pretty uneven plaster coating for the concrete, these castings cover anything visible.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2022/02/img_3117-e1643753662106.jpeg)
This side got some castings and some junk in the corner along the fence as well.

I need to build a ton of vehicles for this area and the layout overall. I plan to make this area pretty busy with traffic.

Thanks for following along.

Steve.............

Great clutter..............  really fun modeling.

Thanx

Bob

Your layout is looking great Steve, your attention to all the details is fascinating.

Thanks Bob and Steve! I really appreciate it!

Really awesome, Steve. Always a treat to check back in!

Thanks Craig!

Great detailing!!


Jerry

Since the forum as reopened, I thought I'd update everyone on the progress of the layout. I've changed my strategy a little bit and focused more on adding structures, detailing the scenes later. The details and little scenes were really bogging me down, so I'll add them later in a large burst of painting and weathering. I'll try to pick up where I left off.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4406.jpeg)
If you look at my previous post, this area was only partially completed. As you can see the vegetation and detailing is minimal, that will change of course. Also, the pile driver doesn't belong there of course.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4421-1.jpeg)
Moving around the layout, this is the front left area in that photo. Some of you may recognize the salvage yard diorama from the expo in Altoona. The light gray building is half of SierraWest Railroad Camp, the other half is on the other side of the layout. I still have tons of detailing to do to this area. I have a few hundred castings painted and ready to go for here, I just haven't gotten around to working the scene.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4420.jpeg)
The building on the left is something I scratchbuilt using windows, doors, and some other castings I had around. I'd say it's a little inspired by FSM Jefferies Point, mainly in the flow of the rooflines.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4419.jpeg)
Another shot of that same building.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4418.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4417.jpeg)
The area to the left with the green foam is home to The Shipyard by SierraWest. I removed it some I can put a new roof on it, I'm about halfway but adding individual shingles onto a structure that's already finished and mounted is pretty irritating and I'm lacking motivation to work on it more than 30-40 minutes at a time.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4416.jpeg)
EJ Whiley by Sierrawest
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4415.jpeg)
Moving out a little from that area to give a better overall view. The locomotive doesn't belong in the road and that boxcar is just one I use to check my track.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4414.jpeg)
This area is all new but pretty sparse with details. It's right up front so I want to get the detailing perfect, I just kinda roughed it in for now. This is part of the Sand and Coaling Station from Fine Scale Miniatures.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4413.jpeg)
This area is a little to the left of the sandhouse. The gray and stucco building is based off of FSM Bailey's Produce. I built the kit years ago and I sold it. I still had all the templates, so I used them to build a knockoff. I'm trying to use up all the little odds and ends I have around, for this building I used some BEST asbestos siding shingles instead of the Campbells that FSM used.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4412.jpeg)
FSM Freight House - Not the first one but the second one. Still a ridiculous amount of detailing to do in this area. I've shown the station area before, but they are all FSM kits. The water tank was also at the Expo in Altoona. I built a signal tower that I haven't planted yet, it'll go in front of the station across the tracks.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4411.jpeg)
It all ties into Cartwrights Machine, one of the first kits I built for the layout.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4410-1408908160-e1700194704274.jpeg)
Moving to the left of Cartwrights. I added a river and some waterfalls but the water isn't done yet. I still need to add ripples and all that. For some reason the surface got some wierd fogginess but it won't matter when I add gloss medium to it.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4409-859681381-e1700194832460.jpeg)
Moving further to the left...You can see how the water flows. You can also see the rest of the SW Railroad Camp on the left.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4408-1144685299-e1700194942892.jpeg)
Closeup of the Railroad Camp scene, still quite a bit of detailing to do but this area is a little more finished than the other foreground parts of the layout.
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2023/11/img_4407-3565526882-e1700195032303.jpeg)
More from the same area.

As I update and detail the different areas, I'll add some more detailed closeups. For the most part the structures are all done minus maybe 2 small ones I'm thinking of adding. Once I get this roof on The Shipyard done, I'll plant that on the layout then really start to tie it all together.

I'm glad the forum is back up and running, thanks for following the thread and providing your feedback everyone.

Great progress, Steve!

Its really coming together.  Looking forward to close ups and angles of the various scenes as you add the details.

Cheers, Mark.

Was keeping my fingers crossed you'd come back and update us, Steve. Always loved your layout. And what progress you've made! Just brilliant.

Doing the details does take a lot of time.

But it is worth it.

When I built my first FSM kit in 1975, I was fascinated bu all the details and really enjoyed painting them.

Fast forward 50 years and I now find painting all those details laborious.

I've developed a preference for FOS SCALE kits with quick building structures and few details.

Thanks for sharing your photos.

It is looking great.

Steve,

I agree with Craig, I'm very happy to see this layout build continue.

Tom 

So glad to see you resuming your thread Steve.....the level of detailing is astounding, well done.  8)

Hello Steve, it's great to see your layout again and the progress is very impressive. Can't wait to see more.

Thanks for the update Steve, looking good , real good .

Thanks Steve, one of the many highlights of this forum were your updates and progress on your beautiful layout.
All looks wonderful as usual,
Keep up the great modeling and thanks again for sharing it with us here,
Cheers,
--Paul

Steve

You have made a lot of progress and your layout looks great. I find myself adding just a few details to a structure build while it is on the workbench and then adding the details once the structures are planted on the layout. The new 3D printed details that are now available are really adding another dimension to our models. I'm of the "It's all about the details" modeling camp.

Great layout.  Wonderful structures.  Thanks for the update.

Jeff

This is some excellent modeling.

Steve great to see you back.  WOW!  You've come a long way!  Just beautiful work.  And still one of my favorite RR.

Looking forward to seeing more from you!

Jerry

Thanks everyone! I should have an update soon. Once I'm done redoing this one structure, I can add it to the railroad and start to make some progress again.

Wow! that is nice.

Question for you Steve, What are the dimensions of the layout in this picture. I am trying to tie this to my own layout design for a realistic look. Particularly, the dimensions in this picture below.

Please keep sharing. Very encouraging work!

Thanks Darryl!

The dimensions you asked for are:
A= 237"
B= 133" to the inside corner behind the closet, 90" to the closet wall.
C= 61"
D= 86"
E= 42"

If the configuration of the room is similar, I'd be glad to share what I would do differently if I did it over. 

-Steve

Good Morning Steve,

Congratulations on you layout progress. I think your decision to add structures was the right thing to do. You have done  marvelous job on your structures. Adiding detail later will only enhance what you have done. Just superb work.
I'll be following.

Frank aka Erieman

Quote from: SteveCuster on December 14, 2023, 11:44:02 PMThanks Darryl!

The dimensions you asked for are:
A= 237"
B= 133" to the inside corner behind the closet, 90" to the closet wall.
C= 61"
D= 86"
E= 42"

If the configuration of the room is similar, I'd be glad to share what I would do differently if I did it over. 

-Steve

Thank's for the dimensions Steve. I would love to hear what you would do differently as the space I am planning is similar to yours in size  and access. For me, my layout is more of a diorama with moving trains so operations are not as important as getting the scene and perspective right.

Hello everyone,

Over the last 2 weeks I finally finished the replacement roof on the shipyard.

Here are a few before pictures of the original roof.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4384-2149208661-e1704139590248.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4385-4145898179-e1704139670744.jpeg)

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4386-1846817657-e1704139704668.jpeg)

Here is the replacement roof.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4468-308290933-e1704139779534.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4469.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4470-94411782-e1704139831626.jpeg)
(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4471-1923591312-e1704139857568.jpeg)

I've never done an individual shingle roof installation on an existing diorama, it was pretty challenging but I somehow managed to not disturb any of the pieces. I used scale 1x6s stained with A&I for the shingles. I've used cedar sheets in the past, but I end up finding it difficult to get a nice gray color from them.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4472-3954113834-e1704140072918.jpeg)
I installed the diorama onto the layout, once the glue dries, I'll start to tie everything together with
plaster.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4473-2628373948-e1704140182138.jpeg)
While I was waiting, I glued this yard tower into its spot. This is from Monster Modelworks. I like the way these kits look but I find them to be very susceptible to warpage, they can be exposed to almost no moisture or they warp like crazy. The toothpicks are in place to keep the walls from bowing out from the ground cover glue mixture.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/01/img_4474.jpeg)
An overall shot of where it lives.

Now that this obstacle is out of the way, I plan on tackling the mountain of detail parts I need to paint and install, as well as all the vegetation missing from the layout.

Thanks for following along,

Steve

Steve,

That roof looks so much better. Fantastic job on the replacement. Beautiful layout as well.

Tom 

Steve, I wonder if spraying with Dullcote or some other flat finish would help prevent the warping.

dave

Looks great, Steve.

very rustic.

Cheers, Mark.

Thanks everyone!

Dave, I primed both sides of the walls with khaki spray prior to assembly and I used a much heavier coat than I would normally use. Adding dullcoat after that may have helped but I'm not so sure. When I weathered the building, I made sure to use no liquid, only chalks.

The single shingle roof looks great Steve, a lot of work no doubt but it sure pays off.

Great work on the Shipyard Steve..... 8)

Steve,

Your shingle roof transformed an already excellent structure into one that is simply outstanding.  Thanks for sharing your work and explaining how you achieved the end result.

Beautiful work on the shipyard.  The roofs are outstanding.  The Monster Modelworks kit looks great as well. 

Jeff

Everything looks outstanding.

Quote from: SteveCuster on January 01, 2024, 09:55:34 PMThanks everyone!

Dave, I primed both sides of the walls with khaki spray prior to assembly and I used a much heavier coat than I would normally use. Adding dullcoat after that may have helped but I'm not so sure. When I weathered the building, I made sure to use no liquid, only chalks.

Well, that addresses my idea  :(

dave

Steve just outstanding work made only better!!

Jerry

Thanks everyone!

Amazing work and an amazing scene. Thanks for sharing, there are a lot of ideas to take from this.

Jim

Steve it took me slow reading and viewing from my last comment in 2019 and although I wanted to skip ahead I resisted and made it to page 29, just super work and totally enjoy following along.

Hello Steve, great job on the new roof for the Shipyard building. The progress you've made on your layout is just amazing. Can't wait for more.

Thanks Jim, Lynn, and Jeff!

I've been making small but steady progress over the last few days. I tied in the missing scenery and started to build it up to where it's beginning to take shape.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_4556-3744936326-e1708722894735.jpeg)
I filled in the gap between the waterfront and the track, then I added some dirt and grass. Still a bit more detailing to go with bushes, trees and castings but it's starting to take shape.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_4555-1178492988-e1708723058190.jpeg)
More progress. I added a little boat launch since I really didn't know what to put there. The boats aren't permanent yet, I just dropped them there to get an idea of how it would look. I don't know how high the water will go yet so I'll wait to add things that I don't want submerged till then.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_4553-2942158089-e1708723193611.jpeg)
Another shot from the other side. I still need to put the crossings in and a ton of details. It's still pretty boring but that'll change.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_4554-825839786-e1708723323849.jpeg)
I made this little fence to add some boundaries to the truck shop building. If I can't figure out how to make an area work with details usually a fence will help. It provides something to lean stuff against build around.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_4533-4178010767-e1708723458853.jpeg)
I'm working on building some little sheds and work areas using some of the castings I have around. I have no idea where most of the castings came from, but the base came from one of the FSM casting kits from RailroadKits. Either Wilfred G. Brambell or Sewalls Foundry. These are all nicer castings so I'm thinking they are mostly FSM or SierraWest.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_4534-1734604588-e1708723746968.jpeg)
Most everything was already painted so this only took me and hour or so to build. All the wood came from my scrap box and the corrugated metal was already cut and primed to this length so that gave me some parameters for the roof and framing.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/02/img_4557.jpeg)
I'm thinking it might go here but I'm not sure yet. It looks a cattle ranch area right now but that'll change once I add more details and ground cover.

That's all I have for this update. My plan is to start to really finish the area directly behind the water so I can pour the Envirotex without risking scenery glue seeping onto the shiny water and fogging it if I add the scenery after the pour.

Thanks for following along.

-Steve

Beautiful scenery and structures.

That's a nice looking shed.  Your structures look great.

Jeff

Just a beautiful layout.  Your detail work is perfect just the right amount and weathered perfectly.

Jerry

Looking really great, Steve.

Looking forward to watching the details appear.

Cheers, Mark.

Thanks Curt, Jeff, Jerry and Mark!

Great job Steve...Layout looks amazing. Such consistent coloring and weathering. Really works!

John

Beautiful work! I'm looking forward to your updates.

Another great scene Steve..... 8)

More excellent updates, Steve. Always a pleasure!

Hi Steve,
Very Awesome work.  I love the weathering job on that shed.

A very nice collection of structures.  All displayed in a realistic setting.

Thanks for all the positive feedback, everyone!

Just when I started to get some momentum, I ended up getting pretty sick for the last 2 weeks. I managed to add a few small things and pour the first coat of water to the dock area.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/03/img_4559-1334324247-e1710262405297.jpeg)
I thought these walls were boring and needed something to add some texture.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/03/img_4561-1786705894-e1710262469802.jpeg)
I ended up adding some slime using AK interactive enamels. I used a mix of light and dark slime. It came out just how I wanted it, and it was incredibly easy. I haven't done much with thinner based paints since I got away from Floquil but this changed my perspective. I ended up ordering a bunch more of the washes.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/03/img_4570-73594417-e1710262664223.jpeg)
I built a few little boats from some wood kits made by Seaport Model Works. They are a little tedious, but they came out decent. They are glued in place but suspended up using small blocks to keep them above the water.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/03/img_4571-1936049831-e1710262772711.jpeg)
Another of the same type of boat.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/03/img_4574.jpeg)
This boat is from the same company but a different style. I only built one of these, but I think 3 or 4 came in each bag.

(https://craftsmanstructures.files.wordpress.com/2024/03/img_4575-1946682046-e1710262864526.jpeg)
First Envirotex pour is down. I need to do one more pour to get the water to the height I want. I tinted this with a bunch of different blues, a few dark grays, and a couple drops of green. Reaper Miniatures Solid Blue, AK 3rd gen Anthracite and Grey Black with a few drops of Reaper Meadow Green.

That's all for this update, I'll give the epoxy a few days to cure then I'll do another coat. My FSM Pile Driver will go on top of the water, and I'll add some ripples once all the epoxy is set.

Thanks for following along,
Steve

Great looking progress Steve.

Looks really good, Steve.

The colour works well.

Cheers, Mark.

Nice waterfront scene.  Good job on the water color.

Jeff

Love it, I'm going to have to try that AK tint I like the look.

Jim

Wow...nothing like adding a large water area to bring a layout to life....that's a big area to pour at one time. Congrats. 

Nice work on the slime too...that really adds to the scene.

That looks so nice , waterfront scenes are a delight.

Wow!  Beautiful scene coming together there.  Top notch modeling on the structures and boats.  Terrific work on the scenery.  Thanks for sharing.

Wonderful looking scene Steve.  That green really made a difference!  And the water very realistic looking.

Do have any trouble with the envirotex creeping up the pilings?

Jerry

Thanks everyone!

Jerry, it does creep a bit on the pilings and everything else, but the next pour won't be very thick so hopefully it will flow right up to the creep line and make most of it disappear. Once I add some waves to the surface, any creep that happened will make sense when the water feels more "in motion".

Envirotex pours are one of the most nerve-wracking parts of a layout, mainly because they are difficult to fix if it doesn't work out. This is the biggest one I've ever done and it's right up front so that added to the stress a bit. I plan on doing the next pour this weekend, the epoxy is still tacky, so I need to wait.

In the meantime, I started working on some small buildings and a mess of castings so I should have an update on some other areas soon.

Thanks for following along,
Steve

Thanks Steve.  I was wondering because of have two piers, docks that I need to do water around.

Seeing I've never done water before I assume the Envirotex goes under the pilings when you pour it?

Jerry

Jerry,

Envirotex takes forever to set up, so even though it's pretty thick it finds its way around everything. I had some pretty large, uncovered areas under the dock when I went to bed but by the morning the stuff leveled out and found its way around all the pilings. Unfortunately, this also means it will find any small holes you miss when sealing the base. I poured a river on the layout, and I must've missed a little void or hole. About 2-3 hours after I poured, I noticed a quarter sized drop on the floor. I followed the drip path under the layout and duct taped any possible drip path from below. It worked but I lost a little bit of the Envirotex and got a bunch of it in my hair.

My advice is to pour it when you can periodically check on it every 30 minutes or so and don't touch it to see if it's ready. Save the pouring container and touch that instead. When you think it's set, check it with a piece of wood to see if it's tacky, not your finger. It's much easier to hide a little mark from wood on the surface than it is to hide a fingerprint.

-Steve

Steve, great advice on the Liquitex pour.

dave

I added a few small things to the layout, and I started work on some other little pieces to add.

(https://scalemodelworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4602-2808856451-e1716409180781.jpeg)
This little shed is the newest addition to the layout. It's originally part of the SierraWest Logging Camp Essentials. I received this kit partially built from Carl Laskey, but I don't have room for the whole of the SW kit so I'm going to build the buildings and spread them around the layout where I can. The interior details aren't all from the kit, some of from pieces I had already painted in my box.

(https://scalemodelworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4608-1203656349-e1716409510161.jpeg)
This is the left side of the shed with a roof on it. The roof is done with black tissue paper sprayed Krylon red automotive primer.

(https://scalemodelworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4607-3607186188-e1716409579560.jpeg)
Backside

(https://scalemodelworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4609-817456651-e1716409609875.jpeg)

(https://scalemodelworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4610-1350496238-e1716409654815.jpeg)
Here is the shed placed in its home. I tried several different small structures here, but this is the only one that seemed to work. I have a mess of detail to add around it. You can also see the little water run-off I added in the layout foreground. This is just envirotex left over from the harbor pour.

(https://scalemodelworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4633.jpeg)
These 2 brick buildings are directly to the left of the gray truck repair in the previous photo. I need to detail all around them, starting with the alleyway in between them.

(https://scalemodelworkshop.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/img_4635-304249315-e1716409870355.jpeg)
After carefully contouring myself to get all the details in the alley, I realized I hadn't glued down the one building yet. This made the detailing much easier. Everything here is wet of course.

I've done more than these photos show, I just haven't taken pictures yet. I'll update again tonight or tomorrow.

Thanks for following along.

-Steve

Excellent, as always.

That red roof is really nice.

Look forward to the next update!

Steve...I really like the red rolled roofing. I never thought of red . I like it. And of course I always like the wind torn roofing with the wood framing showing
Thanks
Terry

Neat building and layout!

Jim

Great details and like the others said , the red roof is superb

Steve,

I enjoy following along on this adventure. Beautiful work and fantastic job on the water pour. Even the Magic Water product creeps and will find the smallest of holes to creep into.

I used Magic Water for my pour and it also took some time to finally cure and dry. I poured early in the morning.

Tom 

Steve

Loved the red roof it's so weathered just perfect!

I like the detail placement.

Jerry 

I'll have to try that tissue paper roof technique, it's quite realistic.  All your work looks great.

Jeff

A good alternative to tissue paper is telephone book paper.  Using those two on different models will provide a bit of contrasting texture.  

dave

Hello Steve, as always your work is inspiring. You are creating an exceptional layout and your attention to detail and coloring makes things look very realistic.

Beautiful scene Steve, love the Smith Brothers billboard..... 8)