This is just a copy and paste from the "What did you do on your layout" thread. But I figured the photos and layout progress was worthy of weekend photo fun. So I hope you all enjoy.
"Roughing in" of the first large mountain has been completed. I will start with some construction photos that shows the 2x4 supports/plywood supports along with the cardboard and foam pieces used to support between the gaps.
For tunnel liners, I used 1/2" fomular board wrapped in crumpled construction paper and painted with textured paint. I may come back with an air brush to make it a little more gray.
My layout "Stone Henge"
Then it was time to bring it all together by covering in crumpled builders paper from Home Depot. This paper will eventually be covered with plaster and rock molds, but will provide support and basic shaping for the completed mountain.
I spent the most time on this section. Three tracks, three tunnel portals, three different elevations. I still have some touch ups to do but I'm very happy with the result. The backdrop seam will eventually be covered by trees.
My "Money Shot" looks like a completely different layout after adding the mountain. The bridge piers were 3D printed by my friend Dave Lambert and the Atlas bridge sits on 3D printed bridge shoes.
I'm also really happy with how this section of the mountain turned out. I can see this being a favorite spot for photos once its covered in trees and ground cover.
Another 3D printed bridge pier made/design by my friend Dave. This should be another great photo/video spot.
All of this work was done just in time for Train-A-Palooza this past weekend, which is a gathering of friends from YouTube, Detroit 3 Railers, Forums, etc that I started about three years ago. We all met for a weekend of non-stop 3-Rail train running action. I hosted a Friday night gathering at my house and Greg Browning hosted the main event on Saturday. I'm sure you'll recognize many of the faces in the photo below so keep an eye out for their recap of the festivities.
- Jason