What is a good "how to" book about scratchbuilding structures for a newbie??

Classic Toy Trains Forum
1

Hi,

I have been model railroading most of my life and I have always used “built-up” structures. I have built plenty of plastic kit models in my life, as well as a wooden kit RC airplane with great success.

Now, I am interested in scratchbuilding a structure for my layout. I have never done this before.

What is the best book or video to start with?

Thanks in advance,

2

I sent you e-mail.

Kurt

3

There are couple of ways to get into scratch building. I would suggest getting one of the older “Craftsman Kits” made by Campbell or Northeastern/Ambroid and see how they do it. The only difference between these kits and you starting from scratch are many pieces are pre cut to size.
Another way is to analyze how a real structure is made an duplicate the pieces in 1/48 or whatever scale you model in. Most components like 2 x 4s or I beam shapes can be had in either wood or styrene. Many of the internal structural details could be eliminated in the model like framing for house.
Get acquainted with sources for parts like Grandt Line.
Most of the Scale Modeling magazines like Model RR, Finescale Modeler, Narrow Gauge Gazette have articles which show the step by step process of building a model.

Pete

4

Pete,

Thanks for the tips and suggestions.

Friday I bought MR’s “Basic Structure Modeling” book at my LHS. I want to read the book cover to cover before I take my next step or go any furthur.

5

You might want to look at this site. While it is only 1 structure the “how to” can be used on all structures.

http://www.theproto87chronicles.com/struct_proj_1/1_1.html

6

Craig…If you live near a major metropolitan library, you might find many books and tapes on this subject. Our Franklin County, Ohio system has several different how to books on model railroading.