The Ultimate Model

Just like every other serious modeler out there, I continue to strive to make the ultimate model.
I feel like I'm getting close and my latest diorama is certainly a step in the right direction for me, my ultimate goal is not only to improve my own modeling standards but to share my techniques and methods with everyone.

Sometimes it takes a fresh pair of hands trying an age old technique to put a new spin on the method which may result in an even better technique being developed. So when others try the techniques I use they may just stumble upon an even better way of doing something, then hopefully they will share their newly developed technique and we can all collectively get better as time goes on.

The next video in my series of YouTube videos is going to be similar to some of my other 
'Realistic Scenery' volumes. Basically the video will start from nothing but foam and dirt and I'll step you through everything I did to achieve the final result. 

There will be a strong focus on the steps used to create the road that crosses the railway line. The biggest mistake I see on many models is a lot of people don't create a gradual incline on the road as it rises up to the level of the train tracks. 

For the most part it can seem difficult, especially if there is a curve as the road leads up to the crossing but I demonstrate a quick and easy method for getting great results in the upcoming video.  

If there is one thing to do on any scenery project... It's most certainly to 'Use Static Grass', this has been a game changer when it comes to creating realistic scenery so if you only make one change to the way you make model scenery it should definitely be to use a static grass applicator.

On this model I used a combination of home made 6mm static grass tufts as well as using regular 6mm static grass applied directly to the diorama and on the outer edges of the grassed areas I applied 2mm static grass using the applicator. Using varying colors and lengths makes a big difference to the overall realistic look of the scene.

Don't be afraid to use some signs either, in total on my diorama that measures about 40cm wide by 63cm long I have no less than 17 signs!

That may seem excessive but if you take notice of the surrounding scenery as you drive you'll notice signs are everywhere and in large numbers.... Especially near a railroad crossing!

TREES TREES TREES

Too often I see great looking scenery that would look so much better with just a few more trees! I've always found I add more trees than I need, then I'll go take a few away only to realise it actually looked better with all those extra trees and I'll end up adding more!
Trees can be expensive so I usually just make my own and they only cost about a $1 to make, all up this diorama has 22 trees not including the small shrub type sapling trees.

I'm currently in the process of editing the video, this was quite an in-depth diorama so it may take a while before I finish editing the video. 

I'm hoping to have it completed within the next week and a half so stay tuned and I'll let you know when it's finished.

Cheers
​Luke :)