Thought I'd start another THREAD not 'stream' so as not to confuse anyone about my water scenery
application skills. Here's three pictures of my entire layout. The camera was about ten and a half from
the distant wall. The layout is approximately sixteen feet from lest to right.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50109150986_9de7b29be0_z.jpg) (https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50109153221_929ae17fe1_z.jpg) (https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50109393287_30aeaf97e1_z.jpg)
I tried to get the photos 'side by side' but it didn't work, they would've been pretty close for a panoramic view.
I should've gotten that bottle of glue out of the first pic too. ::) Oh well.
Thanks for looking.
Ken
It's good to see some distance shots. Gives one a feel of how a railroad operates.
Looks like you're making good progress. Thanks!
Regards,
Jonathan
Agreed. The overall shots are nice. Gives some context to the individual scene photos.
Do you do a lot of ducking under things Ken? Or is it all accessible easily?
I have a duck under in mine.......it isn't terrible, but since the hip replacements, I do regret it.
Sid
I forgot to add before I logged off, that the center photo is 42 inches above the floor. It's very easy
to duck under. The photo on the right, (the highest) is 62 inches above the floor. I don't have
to duck under that side because I can walk behind it. The "Diamond Coal Company" by
Walthers is still removable and I still have a bit 'under layout' work to do before I make it
semi permanent. The 'left' (first photo) is still under the 'not sure if I like it' category. I'm still 'inching'
my may through it, scenery wise.
As always, more to follow.
Ken
Parting shot:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50099470377_d12773e93e_z.jpg)
Very nice. Thank you for posting pics.
If there's clearance some people use a rolling office chair to go through the duckunder.
I use a mechanic's rolling stool that Harbour Freight sells for about $20. Works great and has a tray under it that will hold whatever you are taking inside the layout without you possibly dropping it. Don't get the round one --- get the one with 4 wheels.
That's even better
It looks great Ken. I am very impressed with it.
Here's another "overall" shot. I was standing on the second last step into the basement to get back
far enough to get it all in one picture. Just above the cardboard, where the track is right on the edge is
62 inches above the floor. I'm planning on extending the outer edge like I did on the other edge of the
layout.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50126359998_e80267928f_k.jpg)
This is the opposite corner of the layout. The camera is 8'10" from the wall. On the left edge
is what I was working on to prevent 'void' contact, and is what I'm planning to do on the opposite edge.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50126363953_f9d65032c9_k.jpg)
This is just another of the same, only closer to the wall to show some temporary 'removable'
backdrop sections. The one closest with the two tunnel portals is just sitting on a 1X2.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50126364903_274f0a6551_k.jpg)
The elevation is about 'top of my shirt-pocket' high. I only have to bend over a little bit to get under it.
Still got a lot to do, more to follow.
Ken
Very impressive work Ken, great job.
I kept wondering why your ceiling was so low... :)
My first layout was 48" high at the sub roadbed. It was nice to sit on a stool to work on wiring underneath.
Starting to get a good feel for the size of the layout. Nice. Thanks for sharing.
Regards,
Jonathan
Great work, Ken. Are those aircraft lurking in the background? A century or so ago, when I was young, I hung a Zero with a P-40 in hot pursuit from the ceiling of my bedroom. It takes one back. :)
Ken....that is going to be spectacular once all the gaps get filled in with scenery. Again....I really like the overall shots.
And check your PMs ;)
Sid
I just looked again and noticed the top lefthand corner of of one photo with the front of an aircraft poking it's nose into the scene. Is that a Spitfire? That was one of the neatest looking fighters and along with the P-51 and the F4U the best allied fighters of WWII.
Sorry Oldtimer, it's Spitfire fodder (ME109). Once in a while I'll do a 1/32 scale aircraft.
Got scads of 1/35 scale armor too.
...anyway, back to rairoad. The next photos were taken following a train around the 'loop'.
My mainline is basically a double-folded dog-bone.
Starting at the top, near the main yard, after being made up, the train pulls away.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130666281_87f8a5ea6c_k.jpg)
After going East it makes a leftward turn down a one and half percent grade.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130097793_21bd7a8a92_k.jpg)
After crossing Johnny's river and rounding the poor side of town, it reaches the ore mining area
of the layout.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130891322_b5af7aeaa9_k.jpg)
Passing the mining area it enters its first tunnel.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130891097_37248851c1_k.jpg)
Coming out of the tunnel on the lower level, it passes the coal mine at Hooterville.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130665496_f0608fc08d_k.jpg)
Coming out of the second tunnel (while the caboose is still going in) it starts across
a large trestle.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130890647_00129ba864_k.jpg)
Crossing the trestle it enters the double tunnel heading back up hill. The entire train
will be completely in the tunnel this time before the engines exit.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130890412_65f0346615_k.jpg)
Coming out of the tunnel, it would've entered a siding to set out/pick up any ore cars.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130890212_db52136067_k.jpg)
Now it's heading back up to the yards.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130096458_7147b07d21_k.jpg)
Back on level ground, it slows a bit before crossing another trestle.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130889762_5291d5e7c8_k.jpg)
After crossing the trestle (and crossing another), it approaches the yards.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130098138_002f5245eb_k.jpg)
Back where it started.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50130889367_a40c108e30_k.jpg)
Hope you enjoyed the trip.
More to follow.
Ken
Loved it. Nice little trip around the layout.
Sid
Looks good Ken, Paul
I like the way you did that so we could keep "track" of the route. It looks so much more complicated when looking at it from a distance but that is good.
Another little update:
With the recent addition of a new country church and school, the poor old souls
in the poor side of town found themselves on the wrong side of Johnny's river so
they decided to build themselves a bridge.
First the void:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50167709337_6d505259d7_k.jpg)
I decided to scratch-build something. So, with three different sizes of match
sticks and split bamboo skewers I set off...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50166916518_f5ec486706_k.jpg)
At this point, I wasn't sure what TYPE of bridge I wanted. A simple truss of some sort
would've been a good choice. I already had a couple of those. Then I thought:
A covered bridge !
Next, I started on the lattice that would support the sheathing.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50167708832_a88ca1ab84_k.jpg)
At this point I thought: What have gotten myself into ?
This is how far I've gotten so far. Cutting and splitting bamboo skewers takes a
while.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50174458717_1f987d3ac5_k.jpg)
Hopefully, by the end of this quarantine, I'll have made more progress.
More to follow,
Ken
Gee, ...a plank roof or a shake one ?
That's a lot of sticks man ;D
Little projects like this are always fun.
Sid
Did you do the upper beam using pegged halved bridled and squinted scarf joints?
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-w2JIeXirB7g/T0BzXUuI7RI/AAAAAAAAAiI/WeXcDk16tgU/s1600/IMG_2138.JPG)
Len
I just knew I forgot something ! ::)
A little more bridge update, I've started on the roof.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50189709262_d9575595c4_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50189708692_7136bba825_k.jpg)
Work is going a little slower because of all the tedious cut (approximately), split (and split again), glue
(wait 24 hours to dry), then sand smooth...and glue the next piece.
More to follow,
Ken
Back again with another update.
A couple of views from the back side:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50204049342_6486073dc5_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50203778751_6c0750fb15_k.jpg)
Starting to work a little on the 'approach'.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50204047327_3b0557f7cc_k.jpg)
...and here's what it looks like down the street.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50204047587_e1c5641cdc_k.jpg)
Enjoy, more to follow.
Ken
Noice!
Appreciate all the effort for a small piece of scenery. Great stuff.
Regards,
Jonathan
Thanks Jonathon, here's a bit more detail for scratch builders...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50220442896_bee3d1db14_k.jpg)
...and with the roof removed...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50220444231_728c63d0f6_k.jpg)
The Cowgirl Saloon out the back door...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50220665792_43a0fea0d5_k.jpg)
With the roof removed.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50219796228_8a04b0f5d8_k.jpg)
...and the second floor removed.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50220446381_815031b1dd_k.jpg)
And now for a 'covered bridge' update.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50220446236_ed8ff7cb6d_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50219795923_9353463074_k.jpg)
As you can see, I've been slowly working on the lattice and starting to experiment on the weathering.
Enjoy. More to follow...
Ken
Well, I finally followed 'Larry, the cable guys' advice and I 'got 'er done'.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50300059726_05b8068559_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50300214112_71e0f00707_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50299376083_e2bdbb6cd8_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50300213772_8551ed7d96_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50299375753_f21e3f2839_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50299375608_1e3e235846_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50300058806_d22301f124_k.jpg)
Whew ! ! ! There's about eight hundred little pieces of matchsticks and bamboo
skewer parts used making that bridge. I am glad I'm finished. I still have to work
some on the 'bridgeheads' and approaches so...
...more to follow.
Ken
What a job. It looks great.
Really nice covered bridge! Some serious effort.
Enjoyed watching the build. Thanks for sharing...
Regards,
Jonathan
It's nice to see an overview of your railroad. I can almost hear those GP15s as they climb the grade.
I finally completely finished the installation by adding a little of 'fill in' and vegetation.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50342579611_376692dd37_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50342748257_f221c11128_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50342584441_f2ace28585_k.jpg)
(http://)
First across...a horse.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50341905998_b2239b9623_k.jpg)
...and a little preview of what I'll be working on next. Lift out back-drop scenery using flat
cardboard.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50341904083_e0bc430bb6_k.jpg)
More to follow.
Ken
Here's more. I started out with a single piece of cardboard cut to shape.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50347472546_d1ceab0244_k.jpg)
Then, I sprayed it with an adhesive and 'dusted' it with ground foam.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50346777953_508f39c3ef_k.jpg)
Next, I starting adding layers of 'vegetation' and dead fall.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50346777788_6e9780eb81_k.jpg)
I kept adding more and more...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50346777583_82bf8a1f16_k.jpg)
...until I thought I had enough.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50347470571_46282ab42c_k.jpg)
When it was completely dry, I inserted it back into the 'slots' on my backdrop.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50347470391_1280d08177_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50347628082_4b75ea523a_k.jpg)
Once installed, I 'piled' more foliage in front of the cardboard to blend it in.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50347470086_daa64968dc_k.jpg)
I don't know what my next project will be, but...
more to follow.
Ken
I like the carboard hill project. That's pretty neat.
Do you intend to create a "sky" background at some point? Seems to be the only thing that keeps me from getting lost in the scenery.
Great stuff! Thanks for sharing.
Regards,
Jonathan
One of these days I plan to hang a blue sheet or something from the ceiling to appear as
a sky backdrop. Just don't know how far 'back' I'll have to hang it yet. Meanwhile I've
worked up another QUADruple thickness backdrop for the next section. I doubled up at the
bottom, then a single lay, then another layer 'behind' the second and another third layer
behind that. By 'stepping' the cardboard it givers a more three-dimensional appearance.
Now I just have to let it dry overnight and hope everything doesn't fall off when I
stand it up.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50353923807_fb5b30e1f9_k.jpg)
Practice makes better...
...more to follow.
Ken
Here's more of the last 'section' installed. It took about three days to dry completely.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50360890061_d3a798e964_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50361051357_5c4f120bb3_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50361051072_ec1d8916d6_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50361050822_12756e27ba_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50360888946_56b9f96b5e_k.jpg)
If you look closely and compare photos from previous installments, you can see where the different
cardboard 'layers' are.
I don't know what I'll do next, but I'm going to have to start wiring underneath before I
put any more topside scenery.
More to follow...
Ken
Back again with another up date. The undertaker needed a place to bury people so I
thought I'd add a cemetery. The first pic shows where it's going to be installed.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50419461017_f174a5579f_k.jpg)
Next, I add sub groundwork with plaster cloth.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50419460782_ee14cf8ac7_k.jpg)
Then I added rock outcroppings and stained them with water color.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50419460637_4a3a4d8066_k.jpg)
Finally, I finished it off with ground foam and clump foliage.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50419460477_ec3a8432e0_k.jpg)
Last, but not least, the unpleasant task of 'burying' all the people.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50418607353_c767d5717c_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50418607183_b72797d1dc_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50419296521_82d8e1d296_k.jpg)
That's it for now. More to follow...
Ken
Fan-freakin-tastic Ken. That dirt road leading up to the church is a great scene.
Sid
I'm thinking that, with all those rocks, that grave digger has a hell of a time digging graves.
Thanks for the comments guys, Sid, I use real dirt sifted through a window screen
for the road. Terry, if you'll notice in the sixth picture, the grave digger has a pick axe... 8)
;D
My father, and both grandfathers, were pastors. You'd think I'd remember to add a church and cemetery to my layouts. I always forget... even have a country church kit. Sheesh.
Great stuff, as always Ken. Thanks for the guilt. ;D
Regards,
Jonathan
Well, after waiting and thinking about it enough, I finally got a 'plan' for my mining area.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50552225682_37d42a851b_k.jpg)
The entire mining area will be split-level.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50552222812_f52aa545ed_k.jpg)
I'm not sure yet of what buildings I'll eventually put there but, for one I know
is that "ore chute" in the middle needs to be 'scaled' down a bit. Now I have to remove
everything and start on scenery.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50551358338_527f45b0c0_k.jpg)
...and one last shot of my newest motive power. A Pacific Fast Mail 50-ton Vulcan Duplex.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50552081926_73c02bd6bb_k.jpg)
That's it for now, more to follow.
Ken
Always a pleasure and an inspiration looking at your photos, Ken. Keep it up.
Sid
Appreciate you sharing your progress.
I am Uber jealous of that duplex. She appears to be in great shape!
Regards,
Jonathan
Im thinking I could possibly scratch-bash a duplex style engine together. Might be as fun as my cab forward.
Sid
Look's Good, Ken!
Thanks for looking everybody.
Sid: A couple of switchers would look interesting. Or even 0-3-0's !
Ken
Wonderful work Ken. I am really enjoying your progress, what is your secret to such realistic looking dirt roads. I am just starting to do gravel roads etc ,
Hey Grump, I use real dirt for my roads. In the fall or spring (when I till my garden), I usually
have a big coffee can that I fill it about 3/4 full and bring it in the house to dry. I then break
up the little clods and really shake it up a bit to get it more broken up. I use a smaller can with
a piece of old window screen stretched over the top to give my "road" a good thick layer of sifted
dirt. It doesn't matter how wide it is either. Then I seal it with white glue/water. Then put
your grasses and vegetation to the edge of the road and seal that. Once I'm sure everything
is completely dry, (at least a couple of days), I 'scrub' the road with a really stiff 'grill brush'.
If any little bits of 'dirt' break loose just brush them to the side of the road.
Hope this helps.
Ken
I have not had good luck with real dirt persay. I have fine dirt/ silt now. but i need to figure out how to get it soaked > i didnt try soaking it with Alcohol before i soak it with a water glue mix?
I use a mist sprayer with dish detergent and water. Mist the 'dirt' first with the
soap/water mixture. Then 'flow' on the white glue/water mixture.
ok thank you will give that a try.
Well, it's been a while and I've been falling behind of Jonathan and Sheldon (both looking better and better by the
way), so I started to change things up a bit.
You remember the 'cardboard' backdrop but that where it ends. I didn't like the grade that increased behind the school.
I decided to put a tunnel entrance there and for it come to come out up behind the mining area.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50711572172_7a6a0e4802_z.jpg)
Here's the lower end of the tunnel, This entire corner will be 'under' a mountain.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50867162353_15e7fe5194_z.jpg)
Here's the 'topside'.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50867980622_08d5979e5b_z.jpg)
Here you can see 'both' ends. I got a lot of work (drying time) to do. I may put a quarry up against the mountain
alongside the mining area. I'm still not sure what it'll be yet...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50867980302_5bd97ea772_z.jpg)
more to follow
Ken
Ken,
Enjoying it! Still trying to understand your track plan. Is it all one continuous run? Or are there multiple loops?
Regards,
Jonathan
Jon: It's one continuous loop. If you look at the third photo (topside) and count the tracks from the top of the
photo to the bottom, the train visible is on track #3 going uphill. It will come out of the tunnel portal on track #2
and be going towards the right of the photo. It then goes around the top layer of the layout and comes back
toward the tunnel portal and enters on track #1. When it comes out of tunnel (behind the school) it will cross
Johnny's River and go around the poor side of town and reappear on track #4 going downhill now. It will continue
on to the bottom level and round the lower 'turn around' in a tunnel, emerge on the large trestle and head back up
to where it is now.
Hope this helps, maybe I need to sit down and draw a serious track plan and post it.
...more to follow...
Ken
Well, I finally figured out the initial configuration of my second level mining area.
Everything that shows 'cardboard' will eventually covered with scenery. There
may even be more mining facilities. The few elements that I've fit in now still
need more work and finishing.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50963590071_5d6f7c0d53_k.jpg)
This upper tunnel portal will (hopefully) be 'blended' into the mine facility, as if it's attached to the mountain.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50962880148_15a682c24c_k.jpg)
This just another viewpoint of the same area from the opposite side.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50963589756_b3c5dc93fb_k.jpg)
An overall shot from the end of the second level. Everything in the mining area is still removable. I remove
everything, then work a little bit on the scenery, then replace a building, see how it fits, then remove it again
and make adjustments, reinstall, etc...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50963689702_5aaf740fc3_k.jpg)
This last shot gives an idea of how big the 'mountain' will eventually be. That long horizontal piece of
cardboard in the middle of the pics is the lower end of the tunnel. I have no idea what's going to be in
that area yet.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/50962879663_9d9f09b2e4_k.jpg)
More to follow
Ken
I get a little more impressed every time you update the layout. You seem to take cardboard, plaster, and matchsticks (over simplification) and turn it into some very realistic looking scenes. There's a real art to it. Thanks for sharing your progress!
Looking forward to more.
Regards,
Jonathan
I love your landscaping, everything looks so thick and plush. I am going at mine slow, lol then i go back and add more each time. Your layout has such a nice flow to it.
Enjoyed viewing your layout. I really liked the usage of horse and carriage and old vehicles. I'm trying to find some affordable vehicles of that era. Jordon, had some nice trucks but they went out of business...Nice job Ken.
Thanks Russ, those are Jordan vehicles and I sure wish I'd have bought more
when they were available.
Ken
Time for a little update. Been working on buildings for my mining area.
First five pics show the tedious process of using bamboo skewers for logs/shakes/and stringers.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026157503_fcc7d84636_z.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026159228_7a922613f0_z.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026160188_fd78356950_z.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026160938_649cd476d1_z.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026161778_6c8e811d55_z.jpg)
These next five photos show the building I'm working on.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026994967_7be0c76a81.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026894186_ba976b1f51_z.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026994662_b1b1b383a3.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026994662_b1b1b383a3_w.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026163878_8537cc6365.jpg)
...and one more picture showing one of the more popular establishments of my layout.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51026996357_1eea5d9667_z.jpg)
That's it for now, more to follow.
Ken
Sweet Betsy from Pike!
Do you make your own glue, too?
Ken, I bow in your general direction. Blown away, sir.
Regards,
Jonathan
Great job. Your patience far exceeds mine. I couldn't sit down and make shingles like that. I love the buildings.
WOW. Thank you for sharing this Ken, that is an amazing scratch built kit.
Wow!
If you're going to keep splitting bamboo skewers for shakes, maybe you should turn an Excel/X-Acto #26 Whittling Blade into a Japanese style Take Wari bamboo splitting froe. Something like this:
(http://www.lutherie.net/runout3.jpg)
Len
Thanks everybody for your comments.
Len, I would dearly love to have a look into your toolbox ! ! !
Ken
Ken,
I did two tours in Japan, totalling 5-1/2 years, so there are a lot of Japanese tools in my woodworking toolbox. I really like their pull style saws. They make it much easier to stay on a straight line than using a push saw.
Len
Thought I'd slip one more picture in here showing how everything comes together.
The 'log' building on the upper right still needs a roof and maybe a couple of catwalks.
That's my next portion of construction.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51047116477_9bcdf536fe_k.jpg)
That's it for now, more to follow...
Ken
Very Nice Ken. I love the weathering on the 2 Locomotives.
Since my last post, I've been working on 'the new roof' for the other half of my mining complex.
This is what it's going to look like:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51109502407_9f451a650c_k.jpg)
Here's the two buildings side by side. They'll be positioned like this on the layout.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51109976553_516e19c4a9_k.jpg)
Still have to remove a couple clothespins that I use for temporary clamps.
Here they are on the layout for a test 'fit'. I'm going to have to move the tunnel a bit further
to the right. Otherwise, the 'mine shaft' will go directly into the tunnel portal.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51109506262_d5e0a01684_k.jpg)
Here's just a couple more photos from different angles.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51109820679_8102a218d6_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51110072496_2c5026a148_k.jpg)
You can see the big gap in the back drop where the tunnel portal used to be and how I'm going to have
to carry the 'mountainside' a bit further to the right to create a bit of separation between the tunnel and
the mine shaft.
More to follow
Ken
Great stuff!
I enjoy watching a portion of your layout taking shape. Thanks as always.
Regards,
Jonathan
Spent most of this week rearranging and removing a mining stub.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51133704651_1d8c953305.jpg)
There's only three mining stubs and the third (on the left) is also used as a switchback
for the team track that off-loads at the four locations in town.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51133926048_5d84eb27d1.jpg)
I've got the tunnel portal back in the original position by removing the fourth mining stub.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51133039467_d28f6b5fc6_z.jpg)
This is the 'back' side of the two facilities. I've got a lot of ground work to fill in and most of
the mountain where the mining actually takes place.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51133707541_73aa665750_z.jpg)
Just another angle showing how the buildings are positioned to one another. I may
have to connect them with a catwalk, or add more stairs and ladders.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51134487429_cbc9451da5.jpg)
A distant shot showing temporary scenery.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51134826345_4408d3a61f_k.jpg)
One last wide and distant shot.
More to follow.
Ken
Looking good!
Len
That's good stuff Ken!
;)
Ken,
Been on travel lately and haven't had a chance to check in. Love the progress and photos. Your layout reminds me of the cool stuff that used to be Model Railroader low these many years ago.
Thanks for sharing regularly.
Regards,
Jonathan
Been busy NOT working on my railroad, it's been literally a 'train wreck' here...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51260129486_8840650ef4_k.jpg)
I was standing in my neighbors yard when I took these photos
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51261172255_3e75520c39_k.jpg)
Four covered hoppers 'broke' loose from a switcher about two and half miles up hill. By the time they got
back to yard they were "coasting" about 45mph upon impact. Nobody hurt and a lot of agriculture lime
products were spilled.
I have managed to get a little bit of scenery done in the mining area though.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51260135681_2ed6110c3a_k.jpg)
...AND, I touched up a little painting on one of my Bachmann Shays and decked it
out with a complete crew.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51261177800_a10c1d14bb_k.jpg)
Hopefully, I'll get back in full gear and finish up the mining area so I can move onto
another section.
More to follow.
Ken
I finally got around to getting a little more done on my mining complex. Here's a general view from the North.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51306586087_5bef9e5ed5_k.jpg)
Keep in mind, everything is simply stacked and wedged up against the 'wall' of sky.
Here's a couple more closer views.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51308338430_2f7688ff1d_k.jpg)
There's about a half dozen different 'landscape' sections being used here.
The very top with the trees, etc is a single thickness cardboard with large chunks of foliage glued
onto the lower part and smaller pieces going toward the top, creating a false perception of depth.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51308047124_61495d5791_k.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/51306587152_beb8c39b0b_k.jpg)
I've still got a ways to go before it all becomes permanent.
Thanks for looking,
more to follow.
Ken
layout's looking good and just love the loco crew .
Love watching your empire grow. Thanks, Ken!
Regards,
Jonathan
I've been meaning to ask who makes those tiny ore cars in the photos?
It sure is looking good.
Thanks for the kind remarks.
Jward: "Tichy Train Group" makes those neat little ore cars.
You can find them at www.tichytraingroup.com , they've got a lot of 'detail' items
and 'add ons' . Worth the visit.
Ken
It's been a while but this is what I've been working for the pase year or so...
Haven't really figured out what it's going to be yet though.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52638940451_d54f8bab43_k_d.jpg)
The roof comes off.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52639374570_63e282ba41_k_d.jpg)
...another view.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52638424267_45dbb97ccf_k_d.jpg)
More to come...
Ken
Ken - It's cool to be able to catch up on what everyone else has been doing since the board was down.
Love your wood kits Ken, very nice.
A little more done on my unidentified building. I've got the top (receiving area) framed
out. The will be a small 'office' on the 'top' floor.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52733183973_a77ba74ea3_k_d.jpg)
Here's a few more views:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52732177182_c1f0fd17a9_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52733183803_eb486b105b_k_d.jpg)
...with the roof on.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52732177062_35c7dbefdc_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52733111735_b0d1f56401_k_d.jpg)
The entire building will be on a tailing spur added to the upper level.
More to follow
Ken
Well, I finally finished my 'Covid' building project. I still haven't a clue if it'
going to be a brewery, distillery, or a pickling factory.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52822891113_df1b908758_k_d.jpg)
I still have to put the 'landscape' underneath the whole thing yet.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52821883042_899ee934e3_k_d.jpg)
...and more pics from different parts of my layout.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52822862235_115e2ad6fb_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52822890683_a911ce9f73_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52822862030_d29d53aa9f_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52822452226_29fab072d6_k_d.jpg)
Of course the roofs are removeable.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/52822861795_4e4ff120c8_k_d.jpg)
More to follow.
Ken
Very nice work Ken, keep posting.
Well, I finally got a little bit of landscaping done for my lastest structure:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53082017334_f3060da8df_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53082317453_9836a67c7d_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53082317243_141cafb5ca_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53081817466_6fdcd3cbb4_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53082224760_7eaf70d7b1_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53081254847_0baeef5aa6_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Awesome Ken. I love your layout. I need to add posters and billboards to mine as well.
Thanks, Sheldon. Those decals that you used on that kit look pretty nice too.
Are they pre-weathered or did you do that ? I use pictures that I cut from my wifes many
magazines. I sand the back-side so the printing doesn't show through. I use white glue
to attach them to my wood structures.
Here's what I've been doing for the last month or so...more scenery.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143612579_0074bcf85a_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143404196_201e399f74_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143612549_2245303fd1_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143886533_6ad7f03146_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143886313_e052748c5e_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143403811_019961207e_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143403831_3ccc8ec973_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53143824995_95319f4672_k_d.jpg)
That's pretty much it for now, more to follow.
Ken
Such an incredible amount of work you put into that building. Great job. I love the interior detail.
Thanks Terry. I believe the best of this hobby is impressing an impressive audience !
Got a few new things this time around.
Anybody know what the purpose of a "Blind-end caboose" ? I thought it was interesting.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53265519099_dba00b304b_k_d.jpg)
Another brass import caboose:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53264283722_eec427758a_k_d.jpg)
Last but not least, one with interior and running lights.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53264284687_54244d4eb7_k_d.jpg)
Thanks for looking, more to follow.
Ken
Edit: Somehow there was a problem with "disappearing photos" and I had to
re-upload them.
I can't find the answer to "blind end". A lot of references to blind end caboose but I can't find an explanation. I wondered if they were just box cars converted into cabeese.
'Blind end' cabooses seemed to have started with the ATSF converting wood boxcars in the late 1800's. With their side doors, they quickly became known as 'widowmakers'. On some the ends were pushed in and an end door was added. The sill had a railing added to turn it into a platform of sorts. No steps from the platform though. Getting on/off involved pivoting to use the original boxcar stirrup. They pretty much violated every safety regulation in place by 1920, but a few survived in limited local use into the 1960's.
Len
The MP and TP both had the side door cabooses without any platforms. This type of caboose preceded the ones with end platforms. The TP ones in particular lasted very long time. They were called "muley" cabooses. Who is going to be the first to tell us what muley means. Without going to google.
Not me. Not without Google. ;D
The trouble with very high layouts that are easy to duck under is that you have to stand the whole time to operate them. When you get to be my age, you really can't do that anymore. Years ago I built my layout 36 inches high to not obscure existing windows too much, but now, years later, I'm glad I can sit in an office chair the whole time to run it.
I agree with Trainman here. I purposely originally built my layout with 48" legs years ago. Standing to run it gets old, though getting underneath to do wiring was much easier. When I moved a couple of years ago and set it up again I replaced the legs with 36: ones but it's still too high for my wheelchair bound wife to see.
By contrast, the layout I helped my dad build was about 36" and when you work the yards you can be seated. My grandfather's old layout was even lower, with 30" legs. It was a pleasure to sit and run trains, and you could easily reach into the interior of the layout to work on it, but you has to use a mechanic's creeper to work on the underside. Keep in mind that, like Ken's beautiful layout, these were mountain railroads and even a 30" height meant the lowest tracks were 32-33" and the tops of the mountains were over 4 feet above the floor.
Finally arranged other abandoned buildings on the same spur as the "mystery" building.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53285357261_8fc440adc7_k_d.jpg)
There's going to be a small parking lot for 'mystery' employees as well, being
since I just added all those crossings to have access to it.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53285607443_35ab782bf4_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53285817430_6b5729a618_k_d.jpg)
I still have a bit of leveling and filling in to do.
More to follow.
Ken
Here with a couple of pics of the progress I'm making.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53316790493_c11f03f51c_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53316790513_7c04593c5b_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53316790498_961877e9c9_k_d.jpg)
Still a bit of 'fine tuning' and blending in the edges...
More to follow.
Ken
Man those building look great! I also like the mountain dulcimer hanging on the wall.
WOW Ken you are coming along. Winter is here now so I am trying to spend more time on mine as well.
Hey Sheldon,
It's been a while, hope everything's OK. It'll probably a while before I get anything new up.
At a loss as to what to do next. That's the norm for me.
looking forward to seeing any updates you may have and the sooner the better.
Ken
Nice to hear from you Sheldon, thought you might be working too hard or or something.
Just here with a little memo for anybody out there who might need a 'burn barrel' for their
layout. Save all your #2 wood pencils. The eraser holder work well when painted.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53352113605_d5b02b2d6b_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Thats a great little idea. I will have to try that. Thanks for posting.
I grew up in a small town where everybody had one of those in their backyard, everyone had a pretty big backyard in those days. Not today. Everyone is all neurotic.
Yes we grew up in a small town, in the local train station. My dad was a station agent. We had rain barrels, burning barrels, and a double wide outhouse, 2 stalls no waiting.
Word around the mining complex is that Gene Roddenbarry passed through during part of his time travel.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53375822566_d9a276cbbd_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53375823186_260f585ee6_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53376001448_92542b365a_k_d.jpg)
More to follow.
Ken
Seems that there's a lot of Star Trekies out there ! They sure gave my entry a lot of views.
Got my Bachmann Transfer Caboose weathered and put in to work. A friend of mine used to work in
these cabooses back in the day. He was definetely impressed with the detail. He told me they
were all constructed at the "Car Shop" in Desloge, Mo.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53541848116_3bb478e7df_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53542169984_5d297f59d3_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Well, I finished another building for the 'farm'. A barn.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53577655608_0496e25897_k_d.jpg)
Of course I used my usual materials, match sticks and split bamboo skewers.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53577885670_edfd3c2f66_k_d.jpg)
I used 'blue' painters tape painted black for the roof tar paper.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53577655558_96a8698681_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53577885665_9c74d97c64_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53576576407_fe7af9bcaa_k_d.jpg)
I used Jute for the straw/hay in the loft.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53577885870_1c6e28c512_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53577439146_114b9578a2_k_d.jpg)
The ladder to the loft is a Tichy Train product.
...and of course, that's a Bachmann 50-ton Climax in the background to give a
little perspective.
More to follow.
Ken
Right on Ken that looks fantastic.
One can never have too many figures...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53610127717_124042508a_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Kind of reminds me of Grandpa's hay loft minus the wasp nests.
Awesome, Bigfoot walking through town, nobody sees him.
Terry: Did you also have a bunch of 'barn swallow' nests that you didn't
like to walk under ?
Sheldon: This photo was captured by a security camera and was in the local newspaper
the following day, but everyone dismissed it as a hoax.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53616277955_d1262b951e_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Well, if you've been following along, from a post earlier of the 'garage' and the 'barn'
buildings, you'll know what I did here:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53618841982_451e27afc3_k_d.jpg)
I made this little diorama to 'insert' in part of my railroad. If you go all the way back
to page "1", where I left the ''white glue' bottle in the first picture, you will see the
big 'hole' that is yet to be filled. This will be a part of that 'hillside' view.
More to follow,
Ken
I am on vacation this week, I need to get down to the bench and start something. Thank you for sharing Ken.
What a great layout! I'm new to the hobby. Been working on my small 4 X 8 layout for 6 months........and not close to being finished. Curious as to just how long you've been working on this? I can see from this thread it's over 4 years. But it looks like you were at it for some time when you posted that first pic.
Hi Craig, to answer your question, 1991. This is actually the fifth variation of back when
I laid down that first sheet of plywood. It started as two pieces of plywood laid end to end.
All the track was a simple pinched oval or dog bone with a few turnouts.
A few years later I added a second level and doubled the track length. The third level was originally
a return-loop. After getting tired of all the stop-reverse polarity-and go of manual DC operation,
I added another length of track to have a continuous run up and down all three levels. That's
where we are today.
Ken
Well, I finally finished putting the "Farm" scene together. My next project will be to
'frame' it in. Enjoy the pics. The water tank is a Woodlands Scenic product.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53742801495_807034c444_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53742801490_018c37d397_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53741461012_b89acf88a5_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53742715339_fbcfcdbade_k_d.jpg)
The Oliver 'Super 77' is a Miniprint.com production.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53741460827_902f36f4ce_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Thats awesome Ken. I hope im still around 30 years from now with something similar to show off.
A little side project I've been working on:
This is the Center-Line production of their 'track cleaning car. It
comes with the knurled brass cylinder.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53832271007_5d90a57ead_k_d.jpg)
The cylinder is heavy enough to scrub the top of the rails.
I use corduroy strips wrapped around the cylinder.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53833521889_3670acdea5_k_d.jpg)
I also use Parafinic Hydrocarbon as cleaning solvlent soaked on the corduroy strip.
It cleans the wheels of whatever engine is pushing it, it repels dust and is electronicly
conductive.
Here I added a Woodland Scenic track cleaning product to the frond truck. These are usually
used under of any rolling stock and less noticeable, but the brass cylinder is already
taking up that space.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53833620135_b3a1a44821_k_d.jpg)
It was pretty obvious rolling around so I wanted to make it appear as a maintenance-of-way
car. This is what I came up with:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53833182411_42e256a153_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53832270922_6fedfa141e_k_d.jpg)
It looks great in from of Bachmann's Shays...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53833428463_669160387b_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Thats awesome Ken, i am looking for a good track cleaning solution.
Hi Sheldon, here's what I use. It's the track cleaner and conditioner. Works great !
https://achlubes.com/
Ken
I finally got a round "tuit" and wiggled my 'farm' onto my layout. Here's a few pics to show my progress.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53913288415_9106eded14_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53911956937_4e3fb32997_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53913194779_a60e4e5256_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53911956747_14c527c852_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53913288215_dd6b2742b2_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53913288175_1a4e2767de_k_d.jpg)
You can see a few more 'gaps' to fill in, rearrange, modify, etc...
Thanks for looking,
More to follow.
Ken
PS: I also wiggled in a Feed Store.
That looks amazing Ken, I love your gravel and dirt work, looks so real.
I got sidetracked this summer, 1/16th scale R/C tanks...they DO have tracks...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54177439805_147114257b_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54176109482_e2c11b4ced_k_d.jpg)
Here's where I am on my railroad.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54176104452_5bcf68141a_k_d.jpg)
I decided to move the tunnel portal 'uphill' so the 'farm' wouldn't be backed up against a rock wall.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54176993766_a5daef7ada_k_d.jpg)
Now I'll have a 'back' road into the farm.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54177433770_b386438855_k_d.jpg)
You can also see how the farm driveway connects to the feed coop.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53913288175_1a4e2767de_k_d.jpg)
Just another angle of the same scene.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/53913288215_dd6b2742b2_k_d.jpg)
More to follow...
Ken
Well, I finally got something done ! I started to 'fill in' around the farm.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54262986354_1ea3ab2ef0_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54262752426_be4e53a200_k_d.jpg)
Here's a distant shot.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54262753686_3b5304766d_k_d.jpg)
This is the new tunnel portal location:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54263175410_5f17a7bd0c_k_d.jpg)
Next came plaster cloth and just plain plaster.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54262755821_d4c71415cc_k_d.jpg)
Then it was given a heavy 'wash' with a dirt colored water color.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54261868827_602509dfd9_k_d.jpg)
Next was ground cover.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54261869487_773e83c890_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54261870162_fbce7f1ae6_k_d.jpg)
...and finally ballast.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54262758241_460e9d6388_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken
Right on ken, I like it a lot. ;D
I started to 'rough in' the road leading into the farm area;
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54275846086_457a7fa9bf_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54276091954_5688875f1e_k_d.jpg)
The next half dozen or so pics are after I applied 'plaster paper', giving me
a consistent surface to apply ground cover.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54276095444_ecc81f63d3_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54276095349_7021ad6ef8_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54274969712_9aa7cc1503_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54276278870_13e8ce3a65_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54276278870_13e8ce3a65_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54276096104_fad42991dc_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54276279825_6cdebc17d5_k_d.jpg)
Ground cover comes next,
More to follow...
Ken
Finally finished (for now) landscaping. Here's a few pics:
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54285276851_f08a540783_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54285277211_2ef5014cbe_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54285703110_e6ef30d970_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54285517174_d62222885a_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54285704190_7c35d18f82_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54285704685_ecc347dcf1_k_d.jpg)
My next project will be to do a better job at hiding the 'seams' of the farm.
The plan is to keep it as a removable 'lift out' section for access. I'll try
to remember to take some 'in progress' photos.
More to follow,
Ken
Here's the latest on the 'farm'.
First I added an apron made of plastic food wrap all around the module.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317172316_09dc6bacdb_k_d.jpg)
Here it is installed on the layout. I added a lot of 'back-fill' and the 'apron' prevented it
from sticking to the layout and also allowed it to 'fit' more snuggley.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317409578_e672f4b5a8_k_d.jpg)
This is the little bridge I installed on the back side of the 'farm'. The plastic wrap is
removed and you can see how well the bridge fits.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317173936_65212f1f88_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317593970_70b516f23a_k_d.jpg)
The following are more photos of the finished project.
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317594790_9eeff7c9b8_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317408134_e5ed3efed7_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317409084_67cb9f82bf_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54316288382_476f308924_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317597700_51d3cf81d2_k_d.jpg)
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317415928_04b295c7a8_k_d.jpg)
Now I can lift out the entire 'farm' diorama to get access to the scenery still
to be permantly behind the mining operation.
One final shot...
(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54317418573_c16d911633_k_d.jpg)
More to follow,
Ken