Modelling Tips

Colin R · January 3, 2023

Hi All

It occured to me, to ask I wonder what hints or tips do any of you guys use to makes your models either quicker or better long term.

The one tip I can give is that when I can get into doing some modeling on a new layout, I tend to make up a cardboard mock up to get a 3D view of the project before I start to build any new buildings, I find this helps to also to locate the position of any proposed building or change them around for a better fit.

Does anyone else do things like this?

Colin

Edited January 3, 2023 by Colin R

Colin R · January 3, 2023

Sorry Guys

Hi Mods can you move this to the Hints and tips section thanks

murrayec · January 3, 2023

Yes, I do similar- making mock models, for layouts and buildings I use CAD more as I'm setting up the parts for say a building/buildings I can 3D them to get massing and fit ideas, then modify accordingly

The same when building model locos CAD is very handy, but I also make up mock models in styrene to check fit- especially for scratch valve gear and motion rods.

This is one example, 'Hibernia' the styrene model was constructed to work out how the brass chassis could be made, it was also used to work out the tolerances on the valve gear, drive rods and bellcranks. It was well worth doing as I found a number of difficulties to be sorted before starting the brass model;-

Eoin

Galteemore · January 3, 2023

That’s brilliant Eoin - both concept and worked example. I have a rather knotty metal problem to solve but will now try a plastic version first…..

David Holman · January 5, 2023

For a mock up that is pretty darned good - but also very sensible, given the tolerances required.

Must admit that I do most of my stuff on the hoof, as it were, but do make a lot of sketches to work out where things go and always draw out a new layout full size on lining paper. I also make lists of things to do, which I find helps getting stuff done in the right order.

Colin R · January 7, 2023

I just found these photos of some of my mock ups this below is the start of the Ramsey loco shed and works

This one below is based on photos and some details I have of the Ramsey Station building

The one above is a freelance version of a Cavan and Leitrim Station building just to get the size

The one below is the other side of the mock up

Edited January 7, 2023 by Colin R

Patrick Davey · January 8, 2023

I was about to say Ramsey looks very Irish!

Billycan · January 8, 2023

Boarded up shopfront under Pearse Street railway bridge. First photo is of a hand drawn representation (too small). Next is my working photograph of the actual which was photocrafted to the image shown in no 3 (too big). No. 4 is a smaller version that was also abandoned for some reason. The latest version is just coming to completion in THE WORKS @ WR&A and should be finished for March 17.