New Layout Progress Video and Photo Editing

One big positive from the recent visit to my layout has been some ongoing discussions with Eric Bronsky concerning photography and image editing. My photo skills are pretty basic, but with some assistance, Eric has shown me what can be done with actually knowing what your camera can do and what can be done with photo editing ... thanks!


A picture that Eric was kind enough to fix for me (and now you can see details clearly ... never thought about exposure before):

Also, I've recently posted a new layout progress video to Youtube:

Hope you enjoy.


I've also have had more success in casting the windows. I switched to a new resin, and after actually READING the instructions (when it says to stir one of parts before mixing, make sure you do it), I've been getting some better window castings. I'll post pictures and methods soon.


Also, I've just got some inkjet decal paper from Evans Designs. According to their website, this looks to be very useful in modeling painted signs on buildings. I'm going to give it a go and will report back.

Visitors to the layout

This past Sunday, Eric Bronsky and Dan Joseph were kind enough to take the long trek out to the beautiful, if drought ravaged southwestern suburbs to visit the layout. Eric brought a gorgeous St. Petersburgh trolley bus and Dan some MTH NYC subway cars. A good time was had by all and many interesting (esp. with the NYC subway cars) pictures were taken.

It was quite appropriate that Eric made a visit to my layout as his article on Chicago's L in a 1976 issue of Model Railroader got me started in this business. I was given that issue as a kid by my uncle and have kept it ever since ... its just a little worse for the wear now. Also, Eric's modeling column in First and Fastest that showed Chicago transit modeling has also been quite the inspiration. Without showing the beautiful work of all those who have been featured, I don't think I would be where I am today. 

Now for the pictures ...

Continued work on residential buildings

Since there was a big expanse of blue background behind the two flat, I scrounged some brick sheets and made a quick background apartment building. I made this 3 and half stories to act more as a photo backdrop.

It isn't quite finished, but you can see the overall idea. It's a "half" building that sits up against the backdrop.

The two flat is mostly done now ... the doors are finally done, windows glued in and plastic glazing added.

I need to finish the back porch and add some roof details. So far no mortar has been added. I've been experimenting with various techniques, but haven't decided if I am going to add it. I guess my adding of the windows and glass kind of complicates the adding of the mortar. Oh well.

I guess when you take a summer "staycation" and its 105 degrees out, there isn't much to do but to work on the layout. Nice to make some progress.

Revised 2 Flat, continued ...

First off, happy 4th of July to all!


I've got the two flat about 90% painted ... so far looking good...

I still have to do some touch ups, glue in the windows and some roof details. But its coming along nicely. I won't be doing an interior, just some window shades, drapes or blinds. And, I need to build the doors.