Charlie your a inspiration and right now your videos ideas and knowledge is what’s keeping me going. Ok m currently in Hosiptal on covid ward on oxygen as I’m struggling. But your videos right now is giving me the ideas and inspiration for when ever I do finally come home for my railway. Please be safe Charlie.
Hi Tim, hope you are able to return home soon! and you will be healthy and safe again! so you can enjoy all the upcoming videos from our model railroad guru (that's Charlie) at home! All the best Tim!! Cheers, from a small village in the Netherlands. Wim. 🚂
That's why it's called expanding Charlie. Don't worry about that cancer bit, I have used tons of it in my life and managed to get to 78 unscathed AAAAHHHHGGGGGGGGggggggg.......
Great tutorial Charlie. I watched intently as you ejected the foam filler and then you added more, and then you added more and as I thought about it expanding I wondered if you'd already applied too much and then you cut to it expanded and I laughed out loud with you. In fact I was still laughing out loud when you had already moved on. I used the pause button for a moment and then re-wound and watched it again! Brilliant and sometimes as you do Charlie you show show when things do not quite go to plan and it makes watching so interesting. This hobby or ours requires so many skills to achieve what we want and often I have felt like I am winging it while learning from mistakes. Never be scared to try is my motto. Thanks Charlie.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it John, and that it made you laugh. I must confess I was astonished when I saw that huge pile of foam in the morning. Take care mate, regards Charlie
That looks great. Here in the states it seems like everything says known to the state of California to cause cancer, from obvious carcinogens to mundane things. As you where putting down the foam I kept saying to myself he does not realize how munch that foam will expand. I laughed when you showed the dry foam. I was a little surprised you did not find some still wet in the middle. When I have used a similar product to fill large voids if I do to much it is not cured in the middle when I go to trim it back.
@@peterainsworth8466 I can't attest to the stuff Charlie was using but the stuff in the states sure does and it does not clean up at all. I won't use spray foam with out gloves.
Yes more and more of these commodities seem to be hazardous. As they say, read what it says on the can! I think it’s cos just trying to watch their back. Regards Charlie
Great job Charlie. The expanding foam actually worked in your favour as you had plenty of scope for sculpting. The viaduct section is really looking the business now.
I am getting back into model railways after many many years. I LOVE your videos! They have helped me enormously as Im watching as much as I can BEFORE I even start. I have build an 8 x5 board on castors in my garage, chose a track layout and bought all the track (Peco), so now it all begins. Im very excited. I kept all my locos in their boxes so they have taken some work to get them going again after not being run for so many years. I am surpirsed how much things have changed. The new DCC with sound etc look good, but I think I will be sticking with the older style for now. Thanks again! Steve
Many thanks, Charlie, for going "back to basics" on landscaping - great for us who are just setting out on this hobby. You may have lost me with your technical DCC videos, but I found this very helpful.
Last time I built a model railroad the internet was still juvenile. UA-cam didn't exist, or I wasn't aware of if, and your channel wasn't even born,... I strew coloured saw dust for grass. A static grass device will be one of my next purchases. Your down to earth first timers usage was reassuring, I need one. Buying cheap, you re right on that one, is not the way to go with such a "once in a lifetime" purchase. Great vid again, keep up the good work.
Great video again Charlie! To stop the croc clip on the negative wire from ripping up the grass when you move it use a piece of coat hanger wire clipped into it. Also you don't need it that close to where the grass is going down to work. Static grass is great fun and very effective when layered too. Looking forward to seeing more progress.
@@ChadwickModelRailway - are you struggling to source scenics? I have found there are plenty of model shops still trading mail order, and loads of static grass and scatter on amazon and ebay. You might pay a little more on amazon though, I guess, but if you have prime it's sometimes free postage.
Hi Charlie, Wow what a transformation. Even the the British Rail person on the viaduct has stopped to admire your workmanship. Your video's are always full of great tips and very entertaining, I would never have considered using expanding foam in the way you did to build up the hillside, or a hanging basket liner for the embankment. It's amazing how many fantastic products are available now on the market these days for us modellers. Looking forward to the next video. Regards, David.
There I was saying that’s enough, that’s enough, Charlie, of the ol crazy foam, lol. Very impressed by your have a go attitude & you have confirmed what I’d mulled over doing myself & the static grass demonstration has nailed it. I also appreciate your attention to detail & yes time spent on track work is vital. If it looks right it is right, if your eye keeps being drawn to something which irks, sort it & win back your peace of mind. Thanks Charlie for your time & effort in making these presentations so watchable. Might be nice to have a drone flight over it all when it’s finished, if you have the headroom of course?🙂
What a difference! Very impressed! If you hadn't said that this was the first time you had used static grass I would have thought that this was a pro at work. Might have to get one when I can get round to making my layout. Keep up the great work. George.
It really isn’t that difficult, and I imagine if you make a mess you can always wipe it off with a paper towel and start again. Good luck, regards Charlie
That scene looks really good now ,Charlie. You learned how much expanding foam expands ! Less is more with that stuff ! We all learn from each other.Keep trying things and having fun.The hanging basket trick was good.Old horsehair or packing material works too.
Oh what fun. 23:34 "...for reasons beyond me." Literally laughed out loud and had to pause and rewind. You do make me laugh - everyone of us has done exactly the same at shows and exhibitions I'm sure. Another great how to - this scene looked good before but now looks great.
I’m so pleased that it made you laugh Lee. The thing is we go to Model Railways shows with a pocketful of cash and sadly spend it far too easily without thought., Regards Charlie.
I am glad it is just not me! I have bought so much on the internet, I now need to do a stocktake to find out what I have purchased. Possibly one day I might even use some of the stuff!
Yet again another cracking video Charlie, you’re a great inspiration. I used the grass mats you mentioned, simply because, I couldn’t warrant the cost of the static applicator for the small area I had to cover. Probably the size of the lower meadow in your video. Nonetheless, very interesting to see you use the applicator.
For all that you have done, watching you build that viaduct scene was my favourite video and I'm glad you have re-visited it. As for the static grass, I hoover up my excess and it all goes into one tub to give me a varied appearance at the next use. I don't like the applicators personally. I use a tea strainer for small areas and a kitchen sieve for larger areas. Fabulous stuff as ever my friend. Watching the ever changing Chadwick, and ever changing t shirts, remains entertaining and highly informative. Stay safe mate.
Now, if you were doing a contemporary layout, you'd need a landslide on the track, fill the cutting with water, stick a replacement bus service on the road and save yourself a heap of cash by not buying rolling stock...
Great work Charlie. Along with many others I was saying to myself. Stop now stop now as you were layering up the foam. Fortunately it does carve easily. The end result was definitely worth the effort it looks smashing.
Very good results ! Impressive. I must admit, having used expanding foam quite often, I chuckled when I saw how much foam you laid down! However, the end result is very realistic!
Always enjoy the videos and this one was no different. The scene looks great and you'll be able to add to it now with all the smaller details. Thanks again. Chris
Did one landscape with a cheap can of PU foam... Never again. Hot glue and xps blocks are a lot less messy. If you do want to use PU foam, get one of those professional type pistols with replaceable cans. These can be used in a more controlled way.
I was waiting for you Charlie to burst into song singing Green green grass of home 😇 Thanks for another great how to video I am learning so much. I had a layout many many years ago and now getting back into the hobby at 68.
Hello Charlie, another great and informative tutorial.. I have used the foam insulation around the house and have a few half full/empty cans and could never figure out what to do with them or how to clean the nozzle tube. Any ideas? I have made a few trees made from dead flowers which look fairly good but there is always room for improvement. I have used hairspray as a fixer for the scatter and I would be happy to send you an example. As it happens, my wife worked for 3M and I have an endless supply of their glue and glue cleaner. Tge hanging basket is a great idea and I have often considered using the burlap wrap used for protecting trees and bushes here through the winter. Another item I use is the green material used by florists for holding flowers in bowls; crushing the foam makes for great volumes of scatter. Have you tried applying a mixture of materials/colours? You just answered that question as I write this. That area looks fantastic. Best regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, I’m told in previous comments that you can buy an expanding foam gun so the nozzle never needs cleaning. A wife working for 3M! That sounds like an endless supply of photo mount spray and quality face masks! Regards Charlie
Yes we have a cupboard filled with cleaners which come in handy when scratchbuilding from plastic bottles that leave residue, more tape than we need and of course, mounting spray
And another possible alternative to the basket liner is the "insulation blankets " provided in your weekly box of "Hello Fresh" recipe ingredients. Until recently my son and his fiancee were bunking in our house, and they loved these deliveries! I now have a LOT of these blankets ...
Another crackingly informative video Charlie. When I said to my wife, I am just going to listen to Charlie, if that makes sense, I realised what an influence you are having. 🤣 Did you consider the Luke Towan method of sieving earth onto the field prior to laying grass? I did so on my embankments with the happy result that, where I had been slightly sloppy with the glue base and the grass has not stuck, when I vacuumed off the loose grass it looked fantastic. It left muddy looking spaces just as happens in real fields. Keep smiling, Tony
I can't say enough how much I appreciate all the effort you put into your videos, and how very valuable the information you present is. Being able to listen to your thought process along the way is, at least to me, one of the best aspects of this channel, and it's very kind of you to allow us to do so. Keep up the good work, and God bless.
I just watched this for the first time. Great stuff and I will be investigating the use of expanding foam to revise the hill at one end of my lay. Glad you’ve discovered static grass. It’s great stuff and I tend to mix various colours in the hopper so as to enable a multi shaded surface.
Thank you Charlie, a really excellent Tutorial again, the Results that you have achieved are extremely realistic, and it’s so good to see something created from first Principles.
Yes, good scenery takes time and makes a mess but you've shown that it's worth the effort. Do you have a trick for cleaning/storing your Hot Glue Gun? I've had a couple of them, from 'quality' manufacturers, that despite following all instructions, have glued themselves into an unusable and irreparable state!
Well worth getting a gun and cleaner for the expanding foam. So much easier and controllable to use than the plastic tube they come with. Saves wasting the foam too. Enjoyable video - always fun to watch and learn.
And did those feet in ancient times Walk upon England’s mountains green? And was the Holy Lamb of God On England’s pleasant pastures seen? Are you going to call this site the Jerusalem Viaduct ? Nice work, Charlie. As usual, some might say :-)
Hallo Charlie , for sprinkle the trees I use an plastic box with a small hole in the lid , put the material in the box take the tree , spray it with glue and stick in the hole and hold it , put the lid on the box and shake a few times and voila, done . I hope it make sence what I mean . And yep , I have loads of static grass . And you can use a needle to stick in the clue when making grass .
80/20 I love that. I've been saying level 1 and level 2. I haven't gotten to level 2 except in the last two scenes. I went for level 1 and 2 at one time. Lo and behold I realize there is a level 3 ( people/ cars / trucks etc. ). Thanks again for video. You've been a great help .
Not sure if anyone else has mentioned it but if you are using the expanding foam often, and particularly if in small amounts, it is worth getting the gun grade version and investing in the applicator gun. It is MUCH more controllable and when you are finished, just put the gun away with the cartridge still attached. It doesn't go off and you can just pick the gun up and carry on. Great channel.
Hi Charlie. Your layout is coming on really well and the scenic developments are impressive. It's all blending together, and that's really important for getting a realistic effect. Superb as always. Cheers Chris.
Charlie your videos are great for model railway tips and tricks. Although I model in N gauge I still find your advice very informative and clear, (and without annoying music some have)
Another great video Charlie! Working my way through your back catalogue has really made lockdown a lot easier! I've not had a layout in a long time (life, family, etc.) but watching your build is a highlight of the week. Stay safe!
Very down to earth and not afraid to show mistakes in the vids and that is good for us viewers because we all do it. Good to keep the humour. Your layout looking very good, well done.
Excellent video Charlie thank you. I use cheap hairspray for the trees.... but spray outside rather than close to the track! The effect is the same, just less mess around the railway! Having spoken to Chris Nevard at Warley a couple of years ago, I use the Woodland Scenics applicator and also their hoover to clear it all up. Looking forward to the next chapter. Thanks, Neal.
Charlie you are an inspiration for me (11) and my Grandad (81) seen as we are starting to build our railway and your videos on scenery and track laying really helps us upgrade and improve what we have so far so please carry on we really appreciate your a great youtuber Charlie and your a big help. Be safe Charlie and keep on making youtube videos.
Thanks so much for this video, Charlie! It was very informative, indeed, and just what I needed to see for addressing an area on my own layout. Cheers from Wisconsin.
Excellent video as ever, full of humour and good informative content, consistency I find is the key with scenery, you do one great section and the rest of the layout has to catch up, I suppose that’s why we never finish the layout.
That scenic work is stunning, I really like it and reminds me of mid-Kent as viewed from of all things, a train! It looks very quaint and neat and contrasting with the stone is just right and the depth in realistic 3Dness. The contours are just like the real scenes, some steep and some gentle and the patchwork look of the fields. However, when you were applying the ExPaNdInG foam thought oh oh! I had just finished fixing a window at a friends house and being clever though I would impress by using expanding foam and sprayed rather a lot at the gap along the top. Returning from a beer break found an exterior curtain made out of Crunchie Bar middle, it was colossal.
Thanks once again for a great informative video, great ideas on scenic improvements, but have to add that the missus ain't too happy with me nicking her hanging basket liners 🤣🤣...keep the videos coming Charlie 👍
Goodness me. I think that's by far the longest list of comments you've received so far, and fully deserved. For me it's also the most useful video I've watched, since it reflects the stage I'm at myself !
Hi Charlie, thank you for your great video! It was interesting to see the use of the Noch Grasmaster, because I didn't used it so far. The viaduct, the fields and the scenes are looking great, a wonderful layout! Stay healthy and best wishes from Germany! Günter
Really enjoyed your video, thanks for explaining so much in excellent detail, this is such help to inexperienced modellers such as myself. The layout looks fantastic with all your additions and changes.
I like that about not letting perfect get in the way of good. And if it's your own layout and more or less does not get seen by other people, then it does not matter as long as it works and give us something different to take our minds of some of the errrm 'stuff' that life can throw at us.
Charlie, Greeting from Australia. I have recently found your channel, and find it very informative, and entertaining. Your layout is looking great, and thank you for sharing, I am planning a new layout, that is going off the simple flat loop, and your tips and tricks, and suggestions are very useful. Cheers, and keep safe Michael
ah the joy of expanding foam, you can get gunable foam which is more controllable with a screw adjuster. the gun allows you to reuse the foam at any time by turning the screw shut and if you allow it to skin over you can push the foam into a basic shape. i work in the building trade and the stories i could tell about people getting into a mess with the foam are endless. many years ago when i first used the foam filling a gap in the side of a window in worcester high street i put the foam in the hole a bit more more and more an hour later what looked like a large wasp nest seemed to have a developed . great series always look forward to watching thanks charlie regards sam
this may be of interest to you charlie, just converted my old horby peak to deltang remote control really pleased with the running performance and the ease of fitting in the receiver any thoughts on r/c control regards sam
Hello Charlie, another Californian here that has stumbled upon your excellent site. Your scenery and techniques are top notch, you've made me a subscriber. Something you mentioned from subscriber Hugh Conway really hit the ball out of the park, "Don't let perfection get in the way of good". Wow, that says it all. Best to you and all watching, keep the faith.
Definite improvement Charlie. I have to say that static grass is the same as scultamould was, a game changer. With various layers and colours it really does bring life onto a layout. So glad you got round to trying it out and you have done a fantastic job to boot. Cheers for now, Chris
Hi Charlie, that foam is fantastic stuff, and it expands 3 times the size of original application. . A word of warning, if you touch it when it’s wet, it sticks to everything. Looking good mate. Kind regards Jonathan
Another fantastic video Charlie. Love doing scenics. It really transforms the layout. Although it doesn’t seem like you do a lot, it really make a difference. Great work! Look forward to the next one in two weeks time.
Hi Charlie, it's looking great I'm just working on a hill with a castle on it on my grandsons layout, so I'm playing around with static grass for the first time and there's also some great ideas there for me to keep in mind. Keep up the good work James.
i do enjoy the scenery making. i sometimes get lost with the technical stuff. though i still enjoy it. i look forward to this bit of Friday.. First Chrlie at Chadwick, then Tony North Easter. thanks. best wishes from Toulouse.
Ingenious and very convincing method for the embankment, and like you I make extensive use of the same Woodland Scenic products. It seems as though they have pretty much cornered the market. I have found the big advantage of static grass (personally I went with the applicator and products from WWS,as they offer a wide range of grasses), is the layering spray which when used in conjunction with the foliage products and various tones of grass give a real three dimensional natural look to the ground, IMO far more so than using different lengths of grass.
Hello Charlie from across the "pond" When "planting" trees on your layout, keep in mind not all trees will grow vertically straight, some will lean slightly from being blown by wind. Another great video. Many thanks
Hi Charlie, expanding foam expands a lot, imagine using it to fill a mains socket hole on a wall, bit more yep a bit more came back to it after a while, 3/4 of the foam was on the outside of an internal wall, I was laughing, but with you, not at you. Static grass, I’ve just been bought an applicator for my birthday so I’m really pleased you showed me how to use it properly. Brilliant video as usual, stay safe.
I really like how your scenery is coming along. Like you, I am new to static grass and I'm still experimenting. On my layout I have made life easier for myself by basing it in East Anglia which is largely flat!
Brilliant as ever Charlie! My only concern is that you said the foam is cancerous and worrying factor you was cutting the foam with no face mask on and saw lots of small pieces flying around!🤓
Another great video Charlie. Like you, I'm pretty new to static grass and had similar experience finding the 'right' colour for the grass effect I was looking for. I also used a blend of colour and length and achieved an acceptable result. The one thing I did add after the static grass was down was a very light dusting in places of powdered soil applied using a small container with a stocking stretched over the opening to act as a fine sieve. This broke up the uniformity of the static grass giving the impression of slightly thinner grass cover in some areas. This suits the particular surrounding countryside in my part of rural NSW in Australia, but may not be applicable to UK. No matter what our prototype or preference, informative fun and honest videos like yours are always a valuable resource. I appreciate your time on a regular basis to produce such good content. Stay safe in these challenging times, with best wishes from AU.
What a great comment Bill. Yes I do need to do some more work to the grass but being locked down at the moment, I can’t get to the Model shops. Take care out there, regards Charlie
Wow looking so good m8 your channel is so awesome I look forward to see what you have been up to every week thank you for taking the time to film and edit it so others can watch learn and have a laugh at time's
Morning Charlie, Spot on, like you I've got the Static Grass etc but not got round to using it, you've given me that final push, Your Viaduct scene has been a hit with me from when you first built it,
Hi Charlie love watching your videos. A little tip for your Scenery Been also watching another railway and o gauge one in a basement 200’ x 50. He had a good tip he got some droid leaves got them really dry and crispy nanny scrunched them all up in his hand or in a blender whatever and then use some horsehair and then sprayed it with some hairspray and then sprinkled all these different colours of natural dried leaves on it. On the finished item was absolutely fantastic.
Hi Charlie, great video and static grass is a beaut material to give a real feel of depth to paddocks (pastures), particularly in the larger scales I model in (US O and 9mm to the foot (1:33.86 scale) - its a New Zealand thing...). An alternative to the "horse hair" packing or hanging basket material is brown (or dark coloured) carded wool. A friend showed me how to tease it out over both small or large areas (like the embankments you scenic'd) and after gluing it down spraying diluted PVA (or an equivalent) sprayed over the top of the wool. You then sprinkle various flocks over the wool to add colour and texture. A tip I took away from your video was to use a hot glue gun to secure the carded wool down to the layout in stead of PVA and stable so looking forward to trying that, thanks.
Once again, great stuff. Back on the Club layout where I used to be a member, there was a "no glue" policy for trees. That was to facilitate putting in seasonal trees to mact the Operations timeline. We also went to the medical supply house for plaster cloth (the stuff used for plaster casts before inflatables became standard-of-care) for about 1/3 the cost of what was in the hobby shops. As arms & legs and the like were differnet sizes, there was quite a range of cloth sizes available--5, 10, 15, & 30 cm stick in my head (but cculd be faulty memory). That static grass came out so nice, you ought have a "mini Kathy" Some of the longer static grass is convenient for hay fields (for cut hay, don't use the electrical current, as it ought lay flat).
Charlie, I use the regular window (or kitchen) sink caulking to glue stuff on the foam. Those do not attack the foam. Obviously, you have to try it in a corner as there are many types/makes of caulking. My track is on a foam sub bed. I did not want to use any type of glue to fix the track on the foam. What I did was glue a layer of veneer using caulking (you can order this in 2x8 sheets from the local Home Depot). Then the track goes on the foam track-bed strips with tiny screws. It is easy to remove and reposition if you need. The veneer is about 1 mm in thickness. One has to make sure that it is thoroughly dry with no moisture so that it has a smooth surface. In places where it is not smooth, I put an iron at high heat to get rid of the moisture.
What a big difference Charlie. When I did mine I used slightly different colors together and I did it in patches. I also wait about 30 minutes after I spread the static grass and I will vacuum (Hover). That also helps to stand up the grass and I am doing large fields. Looking great, Chris
Another cracking video Charlie. I am about to start planning trees and bushes on my layout and seeing this has given me great ideas. Pleased you have used static grass as I am wanting to use it but not had the confidence to do it but seeing this has made the mind up to crack on and get it done, Thanks for another slice of good simple inspiration and advice.
Charlie your a inspiration and right now your videos ideas and knowledge is what’s keeping me going. Ok m currently in Hosiptal on covid ward on oxygen as I’m struggling. But your videos right now is giving me the ideas and inspiration for when ever I do finally come home for my railway. Please be safe Charlie.
What a heartwarming comment Tim. My thoughts are with you at this challenging time. Please let us know when you’re home safely. Regards Charlie
God Blees you Tim, get well soon mate, Terry.
Get well soon Tim.
Hi Tim, hope you are able to return home soon! and you will be healthy and safe again! so you can enjoy all the upcoming videos from our model railroad guru (that's Charlie) at home! All the best Tim!!
Cheers, from a small village in the Netherlands.
Wim. 🚂
I don't know who you are but I wish you a speedy recovery All the very best Tom
That's why it's called expanding Charlie. Don't worry about that cancer bit, I have used tons of it in my life and managed to get to 78 unscathed AAAAHHHHGGGGGGGGggggggg.......
Thanks for the reassurance Robin. Your comment did make me smile. Regards Charlie
Great video to watch at 2:00 AM when I should be sleeping. I like your layout.
Thanks mate I’m so pleased that you found it entertaining. Regards Charlie
Great tutorial Charlie. I watched intently as you ejected the foam filler and then you added more, and then you added more and as I thought about it expanding I wondered if you'd already applied too much and then you cut to it expanded and I laughed out loud with you. In fact I was still laughing out loud when you had already moved on. I used the pause button for a moment and then re-wound and watched it again! Brilliant and sometimes as you do Charlie you show show when things do not quite go to plan and it makes watching so interesting. This hobby or ours requires so many skills to achieve what we want and often I have felt like I am winging it while learning from mistakes. Never be scared to try is my motto. Thanks Charlie.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it John, and that it made you laugh. I must confess I was astonished when I saw that huge pile of foam in the morning. Take care mate, regards Charlie
I'm impressed with your hanging basket liner scrubland effect.
Thanks David I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. regards Charlie
I was literally saying to myself, he's forgotten it expands hasn't he, and what a result!🤣😂🤣
A shameful error Will.
@@ChadwickModelRailway all adds to the entertainment value of the channel :)
I love the faded patch you put in the little field over which you eventually put the large tree. It looks really good.
Thanks Jeff, I’m so pleased you like it.
That looks great. Here in the states it seems like everything says known to the state of California to cause cancer, from obvious carcinogens to mundane things. As you where putting down the foam I kept saying to myself he does not realize how munch that foam will expand. I laughed when you showed the dry foam. I was a little surprised you did not find some still wet in the middle. When I have used a similar product to fill large voids if I do to much it is not cured in the middle when I go to trim it back.
I'm just glad he decided not to try and press it down. That stuff sticks to everything.....for ever.
@@peterainsworth8466 I can't attest to the stuff Charlie was using but the stuff in the states sure does and it does not clean up at all. I won't use spray foam with out gloves.
Yes more and more of these commodities seem to be hazardous. As they say, read what it says on the can! I think it’s cos just trying to watch their back. Regards Charlie
Great job Charlie. The expanding foam actually worked in your favour as you had plenty of scope for sculpting. The viaduct section is really looking the business now.
Thanks Clive I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
Thanks Charlie. The viaduct area really has come alive with the scenery updates, great job! Cheers Warren
You’re too kind Warren, thanks very much. Regards Charlie
I am getting back into model railways after many many years. I LOVE your videos! They have helped me enormously as Im watching as much as I can BEFORE I even start. I have build an 8 x5 board on castors in my garage, chose a track layout and bought all the track (Peco), so now it all begins. Im very excited. I kept all my locos in their boxes so they have taken some work to get them going again after not being run for so many years. I am surpirsed how much things have changed. The new DCC with sound etc look good, but I think I will be sticking with the older style for now. Thanks again! Steve
Good luck with your project Steve, planning is everything.
The static grass looks great! I'm inspired to get an applicator now and give it a go.
I’m so pleased that you found it inspiring Dave.
Many thanks, Charlie, for going "back to basics" on landscaping - great for us who are just setting out on this hobby. You may have lost me with your technical DCC videos, but I found this very helpful.
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it David. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
Looks great Charlie! I like that 80/20 bit. I think I've crossed into the 20% on my layout and once again you inspired me to push on. Thank you!
Thanks mate, I’m so pleased that you found it somewhat inspirational. Regards Charlie
Last time I built a model railroad the internet was still juvenile. UA-cam didn't exist, or I wasn't aware of if, and your channel wasn't even born,... I strew coloured saw dust for grass. A static grass device will be one of my next purchases. Your down to earth first timers usage was reassuring, I need one. Buying cheap, you re right on that one, is not the way to go with such a "once in a lifetime" purchase. Great vid again, keep up the good work.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the video. One of my little sayings is, buy cheap buy twice. Regards Charlie
Thank you. Your tutorials are truly educational and inspiring.
I’m so pleased that you enjoy them David.
Great video again Charlie! To stop the croc clip on the negative wire from ripping up the grass when you move it use a piece of coat hanger wire clipped into it. Also you don't need it that close to where the grass is going down to work. Static grass is great fun and very effective when layered too. Looking forward to seeing more progress.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Mike and thanks for the advice. Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway - are you struggling to source scenics? I have found there are plenty of model shops still trading mail order, and loads of static grass and scatter on amazon and ebay. You might pay a little more on amazon though, I guess, but if you have prime it's sometimes free postage.
Hi Charlie, Wow what a transformation. Even the the British Rail person on the viaduct has stopped to admire your workmanship. Your video's are always full of great tips and very entertaining, I would never have considered using expanding foam in the way you did to build up the hillside, or a hanging basket liner for the embankment. It's amazing how many fantastic products are available now on the market these days for us modellers. Looking forward to the next video. Regards, David.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it David and I too was impressed with the hanging basket liner. Regards Charlie
There I was saying that’s enough, that’s enough, Charlie, of the ol crazy foam, lol.
Very impressed by your have a go attitude & you have confirmed what I’d mulled over doing myself & the static grass demonstration has nailed it. I also appreciate your attention to detail & yes time spent on track work is vital. If it looks right it is right, if your eye keeps being drawn to something which irks, sort it & win back your peace of mind.
Thanks Charlie for your time & effort in making these presentations so watchable.
Might be nice to have a drone flight over it all when it’s finished, if you have the headroom of course?🙂
What a heartwarming comment Dave,. You’re too kind, regards Charlie
Very impressed how you turned around plus added character and interest to that scene. Your valuable static grass tips noted, thanks. Stephen
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Stephen. Regards Charlie
What a difference! Very impressed! If you hadn't said that this was the first time you had used static grass I would have thought that this was a pro at work. Might have to get one when I can get round to making my layout. Keep up the great work. George.
Thanks George, it's easy to pick up from others on UA-cam, who are clearly static masters.
Thanks Charlie wasn’t expecting a Scenic Fest so soon. 40 mins flew by. Layout is looking great.
Laughed away to the ruined T shirt quip 😂😂😂
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Colin. Regards Charlie
I was surprised to learn that this was your first attempt at static grass - thank you Charlie, it has given me the confidence to have a go.
It really isn’t that difficult, and I imagine if you make a mess you can always wipe it off with a paper towel and start again. Good luck, regards Charlie
The scenery is looking really good Charlie. Is your viaduct scratch built?
That scene looks really good now ,Charlie. You learned how much expanding foam expands ! Less is more with that stuff ! We all learn from each other.Keep trying things and having fun.The hanging basket trick was good.Old horsehair or packing material works too.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Simon and thanks for the tip.
Oh what fun. 23:34 "...for reasons beyond me." Literally laughed out loud and had to pause and rewind. You do make me laugh - everyone of us has done exactly the same at shows and exhibitions I'm sure.
Another great how to - this scene looked good before but now looks great.
I’m so pleased that it made you laugh Lee. The thing is we go to Model Railways shows with a pocketful of cash and sadly spend it far too easily without thought., Regards Charlie.
I am glad it is just not me! I have bought so much on the internet, I now need to do a stocktake to find out what I have purchased. Possibly one day I might even use some of the stuff!
Exhibition Standard, Charlie! You are without a doubt a Perfectionist, That was a joy to watch, Thank You, Tony.
I’m so pleased that you liked it Tony. Regards Charlie
Yet again another cracking video Charlie, you’re a great inspiration. I used the grass mats you mentioned, simply because, I couldn’t warrant the cost of the static applicator for the small area I had to cover. Probably the size of the lower meadow in your video. Nonetheless, very interesting to see you use the applicator.
Yes that makes perfect sense Gary, they are quite expensive for a decent one. Regards Charlie
@Captain Dildoface Thank you, I’ll check that out 👍
For all that you have done, watching you build that viaduct scene was my favourite video and I'm glad you have re-visited it. As for the static grass, I hoover up my excess and it all goes into one tub to give me a varied appearance at the next use. I don't like the applicators personally. I use a tea strainer for small areas and a kitchen sieve for larger areas. Fabulous stuff as ever my friend. Watching the ever changing Chadwick, and ever changing t shirts, remains entertaining and highly informative. Stay safe mate.
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting, the static grass was certainly an asset. Regards Charlie
Now, if you were doing a contemporary layout, you'd need a landslide on the track, fill the cutting with water, stick a replacement bus service on the road and save yourself a heap of cash by not buying rolling stock...
I could also start to worry about bushfires on the embankment. Regards Charlie
Great work Charlie. Along with many others I was saying to myself. Stop now stop now as you were layering up the foam. Fortunately it does carve easily. The end result was definitely worth the effort it looks smashing.
I think that I was lucky to get in the door David. Regards Charlie
Very good results ! Impressive. I must admit, having used expanding foam quite often, I chuckled when I saw how much foam you laid down! However, the end result is very realistic!
Thank you Ian, I was cleared stunned that morning. Regards Charlie.
Always enjoy the videos and this one was no different. The scene looks great and you'll be able to add to it now with all the smaller details. Thanks again. Chris
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Chris.
Did one landscape with a cheap can of PU foam... Never again.
Hot glue and xps blocks are a lot less messy.
If you do want to use PU foam, get one of those professional type pistols with replaceable cans. These can be used in a more controlled way.
Yes a good tip thank you. And you’re not the 1st to mention it either. Regards Charlie
I was waiting for you Charlie to burst into song singing Green green grass of home 😇
Thanks for another great how to video I am learning so much. I had a layout many many years ago and now getting back into the hobby at 68.
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting J. And good luck with your layout too, regards Charlie
Great suggestion, Jamie. Charlie has such a good speaking voice, I'm sure he could give Tom Jones a run for his money !
Hello Charlie, another great and informative tutorial..
I have used the foam insulation around the house and have a few half full/empty cans and could never figure out what to do with them or how to clean the nozzle tube. Any ideas?
I have made a few trees made from dead flowers which look fairly good but there is always room for improvement.
I have used hairspray as a fixer for the scatter and I would be happy to send you an example.
As it happens, my wife worked for 3M and I have an endless supply of their glue and glue cleaner.
Tge hanging basket is a great idea and I have often considered using the burlap wrap used for protecting trees and bushes here through the winter.
Another item I use is the green material used by florists for holding flowers in bowls; crushing the foam makes for great volumes of scatter. Have you tried applying a mixture of materials/colours? You just answered that question as I write this.
That area looks fantastic.
Best regards
Charlie
Hi Charlie, I’m told in previous comments that you can buy an expanding foam gun so the nozzle never needs cleaning.
A wife working for 3M!
That sounds like an endless supply of photo mount spray and quality face masks!
Regards Charlie
Yes we have a cupboard filled with cleaners which come in handy when scratchbuilding from plastic bottles that leave residue, more tape than we need and of course, mounting spray
And another possible alternative to the basket liner is the "insulation blankets " provided in your weekly box of "Hello Fresh" recipe ingredients. Until recently my son and his fiancee were bunking in our house, and they loved these deliveries! I now have a LOT of these blankets ...
Expanding foam is how I’ve made a large part of the landscape on my layout and it’s great!!
Great but shocking when you use it for the first time!
Another crackingly informative video Charlie. When I said to my wife, I am just going to listen to Charlie, if that makes sense, I realised what an influence you are having. 🤣
Did you consider the Luke Towan method of sieving earth onto the field prior to laying grass? I did so on my embankments with the happy result that, where I had been slightly sloppy with the glue base and the grass has not stuck, when I vacuumed off the loose grass it looked fantastic. It left muddy looking spaces just as happens in real fields.
Keep smiling, Tony
I am a follower of Luke but I still haven't used his "great out-doors" trend.
I can't say enough how much I appreciate all the effort you put into your videos, and how very valuable the information you present is. Being able to listen to your thought process along the way is, at least to me, one of the best aspects of this channel, and it's very kind of you to allow us to do so. Keep up the good work, and God bless.
What a heart warming comment ModelerMJ. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
Yay new Chadwick vid always makes my week!
You’re very kind Cameron. Regards Charlie
I just watched this for the first time. Great stuff and I will be investigating the use of expanding foam to revise the hill at one end of my lay. Glad you’ve discovered static grass. It’s great stuff and I tend to mix various colours in the hopper so as to enable a multi shaded surface.
Marc, I'm so pleased that you found the video useful.
Regards Charlie
When I saw how liberally you were applying the foam, I thought to myself, "Someone's never used expanding foam before!"
How true Stephen, I was lucky to get in the door.
Thank you Charlie, a really excellent Tutorial again, the Results that you have achieved are extremely realistic, and it’s so good to see something created from first Principles.
Thanks Peter, you’re too kind. Regards Charlie
'It's enormous.' As the actress said to the bishop. :-) :-) :-)
I was lucky to get in the door in the morning!
That Horsehair / Pot Liner looks great with the leaves added. It looks like brambles. Reminds me of going Blackberry picking when I was a kid.
I was pleased with the result too Ian.
Yes, good scenery takes time and makes a mess but you've shown that it's worth the effort.
Do you have a trick for cleaning/storing your Hot Glue Gun? I've had a couple of them, from 'quality' manufacturers, that despite following all instructions, have glued themselves into an unusable and irreparable state!
No I don’t Bryan. But one word of caution is to make sure that you use the right glue sticks. Regards Charlie
Well worth getting a gun and cleaner for the expanding foam. So much easier and controllable to use than the plastic tube they come with. Saves wasting the foam too. Enjoyable video - always fun to watch and learn.
Thanks Glen, I didn’t even know that there was a Gun!
And did those feet in ancient times
Walk upon England’s mountains green?
And was the Holy Lamb of God
On England’s pleasant pastures seen?
Are you going to call this site the Jerusalem Viaduct ?
Nice work, Charlie. As usual, some might say :-)
Wonderful allegory (and humour?) - from a Belgian, peut-etre?
Hindsight is a wonderful thing. I never knew it would grow so much! Regards Charlie
@@rogervipond I'm French actually, but almost Belgian indeed :-)
Bonne journee mon cher! Et vous habitez ou, exactement?
Hallo Charlie , for sprinkle the trees I use an plastic box with a small hole in the lid , put the material in the box take the tree , spray it with glue and stick in the hole and hold it , put the lid on the box and shake a few times and voila, done . I hope it make sence what I mean . And yep , I have loads of static grass . And you can use a needle to stick in the clue when making grass .
Great tips Bert, regards Charlie.
80/20 I love that. I've been saying level 1 and level 2. I haven't gotten to level 2 except in the last two scenes. I went for level 1 and 2 at one time. Lo and behold I realize there is a level 3 ( people/ cars / trucks etc. ). Thanks again for video. You've been a great help .
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it and Bob, on so many levels!
Not sure if anyone else has mentioned it but if you are using the expanding foam often, and particularly if in small amounts, it is worth getting the gun grade version and investing in the applicator gun. It is MUCH more controllable and when you are finished, just put the gun away with the cartridge still attached. It doesn't go off and you can just pick the gun up and carry on. Great channel.
Good point Jeremy, thanks for the advice. Regards Charlie.
Hi Charlie. Your layout is coming on really well and the scenic developments are impressive. It's all blending together, and that's really important for getting a realistic effect. Superb as always. Cheers Chris.
Thanks Chris I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
Charlie your videos are great for model railway tips and tricks. Although I model in N gauge I still find your advice very informative and clear, (and without annoying music some have)
Thanks Gerry, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie
What a transformation! Fascinating to watch it come together. Thank you!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate. Regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie! Working my way through your back catalogue has really made lockdown a lot easier! I've not had a layout in a long time (life, family, etc.) but watching your build is a highlight of the week. Stay safe!
What a heartwarming comment Simon, you’re too kind. Regards Charlie
Very down to earth and not afraid to show mistakes in the vids and that is good for us viewers because we all do it. Good to keep the humour. Your layout looking very good, well done.
It’s great to have you on-board Andrew, I’m so pleased that you enjoy my mistakes! Regards Charlie
@@ChadwickModelRailway You don't make many though because your layout looks quite pro skilled built.
Excellent video Charlie thank you. I use cheap hairspray for the trees.... but spray outside rather than close to the track! The effect is the same, just less mess around the railway!
Having spoken to Chris Nevard at Warley a couple of years ago, I use the Woodland Scenics applicator and also their hoover to clear it all up.
Looking forward to the next chapter. Thanks, Neal.
I just find that hair spray isn’t sticky though in the long term.
Thanks for the expanding entertainment! Patience is clearly a virtue with regard to using this particular product....
Yes it was somewhat surprising! Regards Charlie
Charlie you are an inspiration for me (11) and my Grandad (81) seen as we are starting to build our railway and your videos on scenery and track laying really helps us upgrade and improve what we have so far so please carry on we really appreciate your a great youtuber Charlie and your a big help. Be safe Charlie and keep on making youtube videos.
What a heart warming comment Zombievillager12. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
Thanks so much for this video, Charlie! It was very informative, indeed, and just what I needed to see for addressing an area on my own layout. Cheers from Wisconsin.
Thanks Andrew, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie
Excellent video as ever, full of humour and good informative content, consistency I find is the key with scenery, you do one great section and the rest of the layout has to catch up, I suppose that’s why we never finish the layout.
I’m so pleased that you found the video interesting mate. Regards Charlie
That scenic work is stunning, I really like it and reminds me of mid-Kent as viewed from of all things, a train! It looks very quaint and neat and contrasting with the stone is just right and the depth in realistic 3Dness. The contours are just like the real scenes, some steep and some gentle and the patchwork look of the fields. However, when you were applying the ExPaNdInG foam thought oh oh! I had just finished fixing a window at a friends house and being clever though I would impress by using expanding foam and sprayed rather a lot at the gap along the top. Returning from a beer break found an exterior curtain made out of Crunchie Bar middle, it was colossal.
Yes Ian, foam is somewhat unpredictable. Regards Charlie
Thanks once again for a great informative video, great ideas on scenic improvements, but have to add that the missus ain't too happy with me nicking her hanging basket liners 🤣🤣...keep the videos coming Charlie 👍
Thanks Iain, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
what a superb update...i think less is definitley more on the expanding foam..made me chuckle..great work and results on this video many thanks
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it skyfall.
Great use of the hanging basket liner, a really good looking embankment resulted.
Thanks Phil I’m so pleased that you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
This is a lovely update Charlie
Lots done and I really enjoyed how you improvised with the basket liner
Thanks Nicholas, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it mate.
Goodness me. I think that's by far the longest list of comments you've received so far, and fully deserved. For me it's also the most useful video I've watched, since it reflects the stage I'm at myself !
That’s great news Roger, and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it. Regards Charlie
Great job on your valley scene. I enjoy static grass now I’ve got used to it. Thanks for sharing. Roy.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Roy. Regards Charlie.
Hi Charlie, thank you for your great video! It was interesting to see the use of the Noch Grasmaster, because I didn't used it so far. The viaduct, the fields and the scenes are looking great, a wonderful layout! Stay healthy and best wishes from Germany! Günter
Thank you Gunter. I’m so pleased you found it interesting. Regards Charlie
another great video Charlie
You made the static grass look easy and simple.Great job with the shrubbery
And trees👍👍👍
I’m so pleased that you found it interesting Ron. Regards Charlie
Really enjoyed your video, thanks for explaining so much in excellent detail, this is such help to inexperienced modellers such as myself. The layout looks fantastic with all your additions and changes.
Thanks David that’s very kind of you to say so mate, regards Charlie
I like that about not letting perfect get in the way of good. And if it's your own layout and more or less does not get seen by other people, then it does not matter as long as it works and give us something different to take our minds of some of the errrm 'stuff' that life can throw at us.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Mike, sometimes UA-cam can be a great getaway. Regards Charlie
Charlie,
Greeting from Australia.
I have recently found your channel, and find it very informative, and entertaining.
Your layout is looking great, and thank you for sharing, I am planning a new layout, that is going off the simple flat loop, and your tips and tricks, and suggestions are very useful.
Cheers, and keep safe
Michael
Thanks Michael I’m so pleased that you find the channel interesting. Regards Charlie
ah the joy of expanding foam, you can get gunable foam which is more controllable with a screw adjuster. the gun allows you to reuse the foam at any time by turning the screw shut and if you allow it to skin over you can push the foam into a basic shape. i work in the building trade and the stories i could tell about people getting into a mess with the foam are endless. many years ago when i first used the foam filling a gap in the side of a window in worcester high street i put the foam in the hole a bit more more and more an hour later what looked like a large wasp nest seemed to have a developed . great series always look forward to watching thanks charlie regards sam
A great comment to Sam thank you. Yes expanding foam was in issue but I learnt my lesson. Regards Charlie
this may be of interest to you charlie, just converted my old horby peak to deltang remote control really pleased with the running performance and the ease of fitting in the receiver any thoughts on r/c control regards sam
I thought I looking at scaled model film set of Quatermass, but what a nice finish. Well done again . Howard
Thanks Howard, you’re too kind. Regards Charlie
Hello Charlie, another Californian here that has stumbled upon your excellent site. Your scenery and techniques are top notch, you've made me a subscriber. Something you mentioned from subscriber Hugh Conway really hit the ball out of the park, "Don't let perfection get in the way of good". Wow, that says it all.
Best to you and all watching, keep the faith.
What a heartwarming comment Galen, it’s great to have you onboard.
Regards Charlie.
Thanks Charlie very informative as always.I like your blending of the grasses looks great.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it William.
Definite improvement Charlie. I have to say that static grass is the same as scultamould was, a game changer. With various layers and colours it really does bring life onto a layout. So glad you got round to trying it out and you have done a fantastic job to boot. Cheers for now, Chris
Thanks Chris, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it.
Very impressive. I really like the way you have made the top of the hill, under the big tree, looks slightly different.
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Ian, it was an interesting challenge. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, that foam is fantastic stuff, and it expands 3 times the size of original application. . A word of warning, if you touch it when it’s wet, it sticks to everything. Looking good mate.
Kind regards Jonathan
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Jonathan. Regards Charlie
Another fantastic video Charlie. Love doing scenics. It really transforms the layout. Although it doesn’t seem like you do a lot, it really make a difference. Great work! Look forward to the next one in two weeks time.
Thanks Jon, I’m so pleased that you found it interesting.
Hi Charlie, it's looking great I'm just working on a hill with a castle on it on my grandsons layout, so I'm playing around with static grass for the first time and there's also some great ideas there for me to keep in mind. Keep up the good work James.
Thanks James and good luck with your grandson’s layout. Regards Charlie
i do enjoy the scenery making. i sometimes get lost with the technical stuff. though i still enjoy it. i look forward to this bit of Friday.. First Chrlie at Chadwick, then Tony North Easter. thanks. best wishes from Toulouse.
It’s great to have you on-board Kevin and I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the channel. Regards Charlie
Ingenious and very convincing method for the embankment, and like you I make extensive use of the same Woodland Scenic products. It seems as though they have pretty much cornered the market.
I have found the big advantage of static grass (personally I went with the applicator and products from WWS,as they offer a wide range of grasses), is the layering spray which when used in conjunction with the foliage products and various tones of grass give a real three dimensional natural look to the ground, IMO far more so than using different lengths of grass.
An interesting point Keith.
I shall certainly check out more products when we unlock. Regards Charlie
I managed to order the recommended vacuum cleaner and it arrived on Saturday, great for the motorhome in the summer as well
thanks for the info Terry
I’m so pleased that you like it Terry. Regards Charlie.
Thanks for another great video Charlie. The area is looking good. Love the 80/20 rule...I do it all the time.
Ron
Thanks Ron, I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it
Hello Charlie from across the "pond"
When "planting" trees on your layout, keep in mind not all trees will grow vertically straight, some will lean slightly from being blown by wind.
Another great video. Many thanks
An interesting point Errol, regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, expanding foam expands a lot, imagine using it to fill a mains socket hole on a wall, bit more yep a bit more came back to it after a while, 3/4 of the foam was on the outside of an internal wall, I was laughing, but with you, not at you. Static grass, I’ve just been bought an applicator for my birthday so I’m really pleased you showed me how to use it properly. Brilliant video as usual, stay safe.
I'm so pleased that you enjoyed it Barry. Stay safe. Regards Charlie
I really like how your scenery is coming along. Like you, I am new to static grass and I'm still experimenting. On my layout I have made life easier for myself by basing it in East Anglia which is largely flat!
I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it Les. Regards Charlie
Brilliant as ever Charlie! My only concern is that you said the foam is cancerous and worrying factor you was cutting the foam with no face mask on and saw lots of small pieces flying around!🤓
An interesting point Edward, however I’m told that it’s the chemical reaction as the foam forms that is the hazard. Regards Charlie
Another great video Charlie. Like you, I'm pretty new to static grass and had similar experience finding the 'right' colour for the grass effect I was looking for. I also used a blend of colour and length and achieved an acceptable result. The one thing I did add after the static grass was down was a very light dusting in places of powdered soil applied using a small container with a stocking stretched over the opening to act as a fine sieve. This broke up the uniformity of the static grass giving the impression of slightly thinner grass cover in some areas. This suits the particular surrounding countryside in my part of rural NSW in Australia, but may not be applicable to UK. No matter what our prototype or preference, informative fun and honest videos like yours are always a valuable resource. I appreciate your time on a regular basis to produce such good content. Stay safe in these challenging times, with best wishes from AU.
What a great comment Bill. Yes I do need to do some more work to the grass but being locked down at the moment, I can’t get to the Model shops. Take care out there, regards Charlie
Wow looking so good m8 your channel is so awesome I look forward to see what you have been up to every week thank you for taking the time to film and edit it so others can watch learn and have a laugh at time's
Thanks Adam, I’m so pleased that you find the channel interesting. Regards Charlie
Morning Charlie,
Spot on, like you I've got the Static Grass etc but not got round to using it, you've given me that final push, Your Viaduct scene has been a hit with me from when you first built it,
Thanks Mick I’m so pleased that you enjoyed the viaduct videos. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie love watching your videos. A little tip for your
Scenery Been also watching another railway and o gauge one in a basement 200’ x 50. He had a good tip he got some droid leaves got them really dry and crispy nanny scrunched them all up in his hand or in a blender whatever and then use some horsehair and then sprayed it with some hairspray and then sprinkled all these different colours of natural dried leaves on it. On the finished item was absolutely fantastic.
Thanks for the tip, I shall certainly have a go. Regards Charlie
Hi Charlie, great video and static grass is a beaut material to give a real feel of depth to paddocks (pastures), particularly in the larger scales I model in (US O and 9mm to the foot (1:33.86 scale) - its a New Zealand thing...). An alternative to the "horse hair" packing or hanging basket material is brown (or dark coloured) carded wool. A friend showed me how to tease it out over both small or large areas (like the embankments you scenic'd) and after gluing it down spraying diluted PVA (or an equivalent) sprayed over the top of the wool. You then sprinkle various flocks over the wool to add colour and texture. A tip I took away from your video was to use a hot glue gun to secure the carded wool down to the layout in stead of PVA and stable so looking forward to trying that, thanks.
Great tips Brent thank you. Yes the hot glue gun is a great asset rather than sitting waiting for PVA to dry. Regards Charlie
Once again, great stuff.
Back on the Club layout where I used to be a member, there was a "no glue" policy for trees. That was to facilitate putting in seasonal trees to mact the Operations timeline.
We also went to the medical supply house for plaster cloth (the stuff used for plaster casts before inflatables became standard-of-care) for about 1/3 the cost of what was in the hobby shops. As arms & legs and the like were differnet sizes, there was quite a range of cloth sizes available--5, 10, 15, & 30 cm stick in my head (but cculd be faulty memory).
That static grass came out so nice, you ought have a "mini Kathy"
Some of the longer static grass is convenient for hay fields (for cut hay, don't use the electrical current, as it ought lay flat).
Hey great comment there is some very interesting points. Stay safe, regards Charlie
I think what you have done so far has been very helpful I think it is brilliant 😊
Thanks Stephen, that’s very kind of you to say so mate. Regards, Charlie
Charlie,
I use the regular window (or kitchen) sink caulking to glue stuff on the foam. Those do not attack the foam. Obviously, you have to try it in a corner as there are many types/makes of caulking.
My track is on a foam sub bed. I did not want to use any type of glue to fix the track on the foam. What I did was glue a layer of veneer using caulking (you can order this in 2x8 sheets from the local Home Depot). Then the track goes on the foam track-bed strips with tiny screws. It is easy to remove and reposition if you need. The veneer is about 1 mm in thickness. One has to make sure that it is thoroughly dry with no moisture so that it has a smooth surface. In places where it is not smooth, I put an iron at high heat to get rid of the moisture.
Wow Ananda, that’s certainly a different approach. Thanks for sharing, regards Charlie
What a big difference Charlie. When I did mine I used slightly different colors together and I did it in patches. I also wait about 30 minutes after I spread the static grass and I will vacuum (Hover). That also helps to stand up the grass and I am doing large fields. Looking great, Chris
It was an interesting evolution Chris. And I’m the 1st to admit that things didn’t go perfectly. Regards Charlie
No Charlie it didn't here either. 😕 I still mess it up but I still like the results. I don't think practice has made perfect
What a great idea to use the hanging basket. It looks fanatic. :)
Thanks Michael, so pleased that you liked it.
Another cracking video Charlie. I am about to start planning trees and bushes on my layout and seeing this has given me great ideas. Pleased you have used static grass as I am wanting to use it but not had the confidence to do it but seeing this has made the mind up to crack on and get it done, Thanks for another slice of good simple inspiration and advice.
What a heartwarming comment Peter, you’re too kind. Regards Charlie