The Little World

The week came to an end on a good note – yet another cereal-box building for a model airfield is complete – making a total of 7 this week – 4 for RCAF Wet Dog and 3 for Wet Dog Regional Airport.

This one derives from a Scale Model Scenery download kit – it started as the SMS version of the standard RAF WWII airfield control tower. I decided that the Pinetree line installation needed an administration block that would have been built in the mid 50’s – so I just doubled the SMS plan.

I’m learning the tricks of the card modeller:

a. Get good underlying card base and get it in several thicknesses.

b. Use three types of adhesive – PVA, balsa cement, and contact adhesive. These are going to have different characteristics as far as set and distortion go. Play the game using the best attribute of each.

c. Indulge in fresh knife blades for cutting out the kit. It makes all the difference to fit.

d. Follow the instructions, but not so far as to put yourself into a hole. Some of the things that the designer wants you to do – like laminate strips of card for beams and bearers – can be done far better with strip wood.

e. Weigh down setting panels under a broad sheet of wood.

f. Go for layers of card where you can – either internally or externally. Inside, they will strengthen the structure – outside they will give an illusion of reality.

g. Windows need not be transparent if the printed framing is precise enough.

h. Make a sturdy base, even if it is thick.

i. Glue with jigs, if possible.

j. Touch up bare areas of card, paper, or wood.

Now I am going to go install the Admin building and look around to see if there is a need for base housing beyond the trailer park. I’m betting there is and I know where to get plans for prairie houses of the period.