If you’re into model railways, then you probably know about G scale trains. G scale trains are larger than most other model train scales, and they’re often used outdoors to create realistic train layouts. One of the most important aspects of any model train layout is the buildings. Without buildings, your layout will look incomplete and unrealistic. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps of how to make G scale buildings from scratch.
Introduction
Before we get started, it’s essential to understand what G scale is and how it compares to other model train scales. G scale trains are 1:22.5 in scale, which means that they’re 22.5 times smaller than the real thing. These trains are often used outdoors and are large enough to be seen from a distance. G scale buildings, therefore, need to be similarly large to be in proportion to the trains.
Materials Needed
To make G scale buildings, you’ll need the following materials:
- Foamcore board
- Craft knife
- Ruler
- Pencil
- Paint
- Paintbrushes
- Glue
- Sandpaper
- Wooden sticks
Steps to Make G Scale Buildings
Step 1: Plan Your Building
Before you start cutting and gluing, you need to plan out your building. Decide what type of building you want to make, such as a house, a train station, or a shop. Then, sketch out a rough plan of the building, including the shape and size.
Step 2: Cut Out the Walls
Using a craft knife and a ruler, cut out the walls of your building from the foamcore board. Make sure you measure everything correctly, so your walls are the right size and shape. Remember to cut out any windows or doors.
Step 3: Glue the Walls Together
Using glue, attach the walls together to create the structure of your building. Use wooden sticks to hold the walls in place while the glue dries.
Step 4: Add a Roof
Cut out a piece of foamcore board to create a roof for your building. Glue it on top of the walls, making sure it’s the right size and shape. You can also add shingles or other roof details if you like.
Step 5: Add Details
Once your building’s structure is complete, it’s time to add details. You can use paint, sandpaper, and other materials to create realistic textures and colours. Add windows, doors, shutters, and other architectural features to make your building look more realistic.
Step 6: Finish and Protect Your Building
Once your building is complete, it’s essential to protect it from the elements. Use a clear coat of varnish or paint to seal your building and protect it from water damage or fading in the sun.
Tips and Tricks
- Use reference photos or real-life buildings to inspire your designs.
- Use foamcore board with a thickness of at least 3/16″ to ensure stability and durability.
- Try using a wood-burning tool to create woodgrain textures on your building’s exterior.
- Be patient and take your time. Making G scale buildings can be a time-consuming process, but the results are worth it.
Conclusion
Creating G scale buildings from scratch is a fun and rewarding experience for any model train enthusiast. With the right tools and materials, you can make realistic and impressive structures to complement your train layout. Remember to take your time, plan out your design, and add plenty of details to make your buildings stand out.
- Can I use other materials besides foamcore board to make G scale buildings?
FAQs
- Yes, you can use a variety of materials
- Do I need to have experience in model-making to make G scale buildings?
- No, anyone can make G scale buildings with the right materials and a bit of patience.
- Can G scale buildings be used indoors?
- Yes, G scale buildings can be used indoors, but they may take up more space than buildings in smaller scales.
- Can I use pre-made kits to make G scale buildings?
- Yes, there are many pre-made kits available for G scale buildings, but making them from scratch can be more rewarding and allows for more creative freedom.
- What kind of paint should I use to paint my G scale buildings?
- It’s best to use acrylic paint for G scale buildings, as it dries quickly and is easy to work with. Make sure to use a clear coat of varnish or paint to protect your building from the elements.