FOS Harbor Master Office build.

[ACL1504]

When building a kit I'm always looking for a way to change something. Often these changes mean more work and a longer time on the build.

Such is the case with this kit. I decided to experiment with how I paint/stain and weather the windows.

I'm using Floquil Antique White for the door, windows and trim. I used an old brush and stippled on some full strength antique white paint. While the paint was still wet, I dipped the window in Hunterline Light Gray A&I.

In the photo below, you can see the unpainted, stippled and then the window dipped in A&I.



After the A&I was dry, this is how the window looked.



Continued -

[ACL1504]

The faded and weather beaten look is just right for the walls and trim.





More in a few.

[ACL1504]

Next I added some grain to the dock pilings. I used a Zona/Xacto saw blade to add the grain. I placed the saw against the dowel and then pulled the dowel and let the saw teeth cut into the dowel.



I also used the same process on the deck boards.

I then stained the dowels and boards with Hunterline Cordovan Brown and let dry.



More in a few.

[ACL1504]

Doug included in this kit a base for the building and dowels/pilings. There is nothing wrong with using this and it probably saves time in the build.

However, I've decided to go another route and add more realistic detail to the pier and decking.

Using an old template from my Delwin's Boat and Net Storage kit, I'm scratch building a new pier and making is slightly larger than the kit.

Here is what is in the kit.



Here is new new pier. I'm starting with some 10X10 bent supports.



Continued -

[ACL1504]

I'm gluing 4X12 stringers to the bents.





Only 14 more stringers to go for this one.

[PRR Modeler]

Great looking changes Tom. Nice technique with the Zona saw.

[Opa George]

Excellent tips, Tom.  I like the chipped paint effect on the windows.  That scratchbuilt deck is also looking awesome.
--Opa George

[WigWag Workshop]

Thank You for sharing the tips Tom, it really helps a new builder like me.


-Steven

[Jim Donovan]

Nice work Tom;

I like the FOS kits but doubt I could keep up with the kit of the month plan. Be gentle with that Hunter Stain, looks like it is going to be a while before more is available.

Thanks for the experiment with the windows, looks like it worked out great.

Jim D

[postalkarl]

hey Tom:

Walls and windows look just great. Following along with great interest.

Karl

[ACL1504]

Great looking changes Tom. Nice technique with the Zona saw.

Curt,

Thank you kind sir.

Tom

[ACL1504]

Excellent tips, Tom.  I like the chipped paint effect on the windows.  That scratchbuilt deck is also looking awesome.
--Opa George

George,

Thank you and I'm glad you like the chipped paint look. Honestly, it looks better in person than my photos show.

I'll have more on a deck update later this evening.

Tom 

[ACL1504]

Thank You for sharing the tips Tom, it really helps a new builder like me.


-Steven

Steven,

You are most welcome. I've learned and shared many tips and techniques on this great forum.

Tom 

[ACL1504]

Nice work Tom;

I like the FOS kits but doubt I could keep up with the kit of the month plan. Be gentle with that Hunter Stain, looks like it is going to be a while before more is available.

Thanks for the experiment with the windows, looks like it worked out great.

Jim D

Jim,

This is my first kit of the month build. I've been a member for two years and all of them are different. What is great about the kits is each one can be a stand alone structure and fit almost anywhere.

Thanks for following along and for the compliment.

Tom 

[ACL1504]

hey Tom:

Walls and windows look just great. Following along with great interest.

Karl

Karl,

Much appreciate the compliment and happy you are following along.

Tom