Brick Mortar

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I am looking for suggestion on to get the effect of mortar on a brick building. I am working with N-scale DPM models. Any input appreciated.

Thanks

2

Probably your best bet is a mortar wash–I’m not sure how the putty “mortar” products available work with N scale.

Mortar wash: First, paint your building a fairly dark brick color.

Then, mix 7 parts water, 8 parts alcohol, 1 part paint (Aged Concrete is a good choice, but any off-white or light gray will do) and a couple drops of detergent in a jar. Paint this liberally over your brick walls (it’s easiest to do this before the building is built, with the walls laying flat, but it can be done to already-constructed buildings) and let it dry. The wash will find its way into cracks and the spaces between bricks. Some residue will remain on the bricks themselves–but this is realisitc, and if you painted your bricks a little dark they should be lightened to a suitably realistic tone. If you want the building a little darker, add an ink wash (60 parts alcohol, 1 part India ink) to grime things up a bit.

3

I built an n-scale station for my dad years ago and used spakling compund for the mortar. You simply rub it into the brick (after painting) and then rub it again when it dries. You’ll probably still want to give it a light grey wash after, since spackle it pretty white and motar isn’t. Try it on a scrap wall first of course.
Hope this helps

4

I have used various color artist pencils with success to simulate grout lines. Should work in your application.

Randy

5

Roberts Products Co. PO Box 27057 Milwaukee Wi 53227

4 oz Brick Mortar, enough for up to 20 sq feet, water base

$11.00 inludes shipping

Tel Answering machine O N L Y 414-422-1371

6

i use the roberts brick mortar, best thing since sliced bread.

7

I prefer whole wheat.