Simulating Wood Grain

October 9, 2010

Many model railroaders scratch build their structures using balsa wood. To add a wood grain effect, use a metal dog comb, and run it along a test piece of balsa. This should produce marks on the balsa like wood grain. The trick is to use a comb that is the correct scale width.

Visitors to your model railroad layout will not always spot the little details straight away, but the longer they watch the trains operate, the more chance they have to notice the elements that add amazing reality to your layout. Their faces will instantly light up, as they suddenly spot something interesting that captures their imagination.

More clever model railroad tips.