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by: BillMurphy
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Not everyone wants to be an architect, but when it comes to model railroading it seems like everyone gets into the act sooner or later. It is often just too hard to find the perfect bridge, building or train station to match the vision in our minds unless we build it ourselves.
So what's involved in making your own buildings? Do you need to be a master carpenter or will you be able to get away with the basic tools you can find in most homes?
In reality building a quality replica can involve some detailed miter cuts and depending on the scale you are working in may require some advanced woodworking skills and tools. However there is always the 'kitbashing' method, where you take existing models and use parts of them to start your building, then modify it as needed.
In many cases doing this will allow an enthusiast to utilize simple tools such as X-acto knives and scissors along with a little imagination to achieve spectacular results.
Some of the materials you may find useful when making your own buildings include balsa wood, mat board, foam, lightweight plastics and even cardboard.
Plaster and corkboard, spray adhesives, gold or silver foil and glitter can also come in handy. You can find most of these materials at your local hobby shop, and they are not particularly expensive.
Where You Can Find More Ideas
Tips and articles on working with these materials have been printed in many magazines that you may want to see if you can find either in a 2nd hand bookstore or by demand at your local library.
Looking for more ideas for designing model railroad scenery? Visit TheModelRailroader.com for lots of helpful information. Get a free copy of my report "Model Railroad Design Secrets" at http://www.themodelrailroader.com