I wonder if someone can point me to a webpage about Scratchbuilding? I want to learn how to build structures, bridges and things like that.
Don’t know if you tried this, but just search on Yahoo or another search engine for Model railroading and scratch builing. All you really need is some plans or a blueprint maybe. I have built a couple of structures that came out pretty good. One thing that would help is a scale ruler and an idea of what you want.
The best way to learn is to practice. Find yourself a craftsman style kit and follow the instructions on how to build it. Then build several more. Building these kits will teach you methods that you can use to make your own models. Then you can find an article in a magazine on building a particular structure and use the plans and info to make one on your own.
Bob Boudreau
There is a scratchbuilding Yahoo group.
Get a good scale rule, a calculator and if you can afford it, a dial caliper. Then get a small machinist’s square. A large part of scratchbuilding is measurement.
Start with a simple structure, a shed or a barn. Google or Yahoo for images of barns or sheds. Then use strip styrene, or wood/balsa/basswood and cardstock to build your structure.
Since you seem to have a hard time finding materials, you might want to buy some of the older Kalmbach books on building structures and cars because they use fewer “high tech” parts. Manila folders cut in strips can make lap siding for example. Another very useful material is Strathmore board. It coms in various “plys” or thicknesses. Back in the 1950’s and 1960’s no scratchbuilder would be without it. It is reasonably common in art supply stores. If you can get it, sheet styrene is great. Check plastic suppliers or sign makers.
Dave H.
Also as a tip for learning about “alternative” materials. Any old E L Moore article from RMC and MR is a very good source. Never heard of him you say?? Ever heard of the Grusom Casket Co? W E Snatchum Mortuary? the Molasses Mine?, Safety Fireworks and Match Co? These are all EL Moore originals that many manufacturers have released as kits. I think he always used balsa wood, cardboard and even toothpicks and matchsticks in his structures. I think the majority of his structures in those days cost less than $3.00 to build, and often times had better detail that what was released on the kits made from his articles.
i agree with fundynorthern: get yourself a craftsman kit (the kind where you get a box of sticks and an instruction sheet), and build it according to the plans.
replace the sticks, and build it again; only this time change it for the better.
before long, you’ll be able to take any plan, and a bunch of sticks, and build it. you are now a scratchbuilder.
OK, who makes “craftsman kits” and does anybody know of a website where we can buy them?
When it comes to bridges there is an excellent book from Kalmbach on Bridges and Trestles.
LaBelle Woodworking http://www.labellemodels.com/ makes craftsman kits. So does Ye Olde Huff and Puff http://www.yeoldehuffnpuff.com/ There are thers but these should get you started.
Enjoy
Paul
Campbell Scale Models makes fine kits, and their instructions are first rate! They include scale drawings, templates, etc. Most of their included stripwood is color coded on the ends to help you tell which is which.
They have quite an extensive line, from simple shacks to coaling towers, engine houses, etc. Check out the Walthers website that should illustrate all or most of them.
Bob Boudreau
my dad has just started to scratchbuild. he does every thing to buildings. he is just like my grandpa always building something. Me i haven’t messed with scratchbuilding much just enough to suite my needs.