Scratchbuild techniques-?

Jim,

You can call me.. I'll help you out. As ref, I was a designer in the Lionel Trains design department and have a host of other references. 

Only because I have a ton of questions for you. Like, do you have windows cut in? etc.. 

what I want to help you with is to do it the quickest way and have strength etc etc..

508-637-1340

I am in the office all day tuesday.. if goes into VM, leave a message as I will cal you back as that is my work number in the office.

Dan

I think I would use thin plywood with carpenters glue.  And seal the inside when dry either with paint or sanding sealer.

Phil Randall

Hey PHIL!  How's things going down south?

Going pretty good here.  Lots of wheels to turn. I am getting back into O scale. And starting to work on stuff again.  Good to hear from you.

I make my structures out of cereal boxes.  Seriously.  Build your frame and brace with balsa wood i like 1/4.  Cut a thin strip of cereal box, 1/8 wide and glue along the bottom.  That is your "kicker strip".  Cut strips of cereal box 1/4 inxch wide and as long as you want.  Overlay the kicker strip and work your way up using a slight overlay.  Once painted, you would swear to God it is a wood wall. 

I use this technique extensively.  You can duplicate board and batten, and ship lap siding as well by glueing it flat.  My layout is in public view at out train club and is next to a very highly detailed On3 layout that utilizes very high end craftsman kits.  If you use comercial window castings, with practice, these buildings can look as good as a high dollar kit.  I make my own windows, but I have used commercial ones as well. 

This technique works especially well if you are modeling a structure with some age.  Real structures settle over time.  you don't have to be perfect.  In fact, I DELIBERATELY model some flaws that simulate settling.  When weathered, the effect is unbelieveable. Regular Elmer's glue does the job just find. 

Scratchbuilding:  Another technique is to use 3/16 foam core board for structures.  See my diesel engine house in photos.

More photos of engine house

Seriously?

Matt