Trains.com

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Any idears on windows?

5275 views
19 replies
1 rating 2 rating 3 rating 4 rating 5 rating
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, December 15, 2003 12:05 PM
I have built double hung, outside frame windows in a brass jig and it takes quite a while.

For inside frame windows i usually build them in the wall openning with the wall on a mirror. Mirrors are useful for this as you can see the back of what you are doing as well as the front which gives you more informaion on how well you are doing.

i would be a lot easier to buy grandt line ones. I wish i could find someone in the UK that would sell them so i don't need to pay Walthers 20% shipping and then 17.5% V.A.T. when it gets to the UK.

neil
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, December 15, 2003 12:05 PM
I have built double hung, outside frame windows in a brass jig and it takes quite a while.

For inside frame windows i usually build them in the wall openning with the wall on a mirror. Mirrors are useful for this as you can see the back of what you are doing as well as the front which gives you more informaion on how well you are doing.

i would be a lot easier to buy grandt line ones. I wish i could find someone in the UK that would sell them so i don't need to pay Walthers 20% shipping and then 17.5% V.A.T. when it gets to the UK.

neil
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, December 15, 2003 7:22 AM

Definition of an 'architect'.....someone who doesn't believe in the concept of 4X8.

The best way to make windows I've found is to make a brass jig in the dimensions you want. Yes it takes time, but once its right it remains right. Over time I've built up a collection of several which I can mix and match to need.

As to mullions. Have you tried scribing them in and then tracing over the line with a very fine tip artist color pen, followed with a wipe with a soft lint free cloth?

Randy
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Monday, December 15, 2003 7:22 AM

Definition of an 'architect'.....someone who doesn't believe in the concept of 4X8.

The best way to make windows I've found is to make a brass jig in the dimensions you want. Yes it takes time, but once its right it remains right. Over time I've built up a collection of several which I can mix and match to need.

As to mullions. Have you tried scribing them in and then tracing over the line with a very fine tip artist color pen, followed with a wipe with a soft lint free cloth?

Randy
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, December 14, 2003 10:29 PM
I will one day figure out how to do it, but I face this same dilemma for my N-scale layout. As an architect, I have as a goal to not only scratchbuild but also design every building on the layout; as a procrastinator I have yet to build the first one, of course. I need to figure out how to make arched windows with a unique head trim, shaped like an oxbow. I am wondering now if it might be smart to use an ogee shaped molding, perhaps produced with a router, which I then cut thin slabs off, perpendicular, so that the profile is the shape I'm looking for. This would give me grain in the wrong direction, unless I routed it across the grain. So, maybe it will work, if I can get my hands on a tight-grained wood which will hold together after being cut out to N-scale sizes...

One thing I did for an architectural model once, in terms of modeling fine mullions, was to score my clear glazing using a knife and straightedge, with two very close parallel score marks. Then, I painted in between them; the scores form ridges which hold a thin paint between them. For really fine mullions, you could do a single score, but it would be difficult (not impossible) to fill it in with paint. Of course, scoring the clear material means that it must be thick enough to not be cut all the way through! At the time, I used a heavy acetate clear film which was being sold as a book report cover material, though heavy sheet styrene could be used as well.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, December 14, 2003 10:29 PM
I will one day figure out how to do it, but I face this same dilemma for my N-scale layout. As an architect, I have as a goal to not only scratchbuild but also design every building on the layout; as a procrastinator I have yet to build the first one, of course. I need to figure out how to make arched windows with a unique head trim, shaped like an oxbow. I am wondering now if it might be smart to use an ogee shaped molding, perhaps produced with a router, which I then cut thin slabs off, perpendicular, so that the profile is the shape I'm looking for. This would give me grain in the wrong direction, unless I routed it across the grain. So, maybe it will work, if I can get my hands on a tight-grained wood which will hold together after being cut out to N-scale sizes...

One thing I did for an architectural model once, in terms of modeling fine mullions, was to score my clear glazing using a knife and straightedge, with two very close parallel score marks. Then, I painted in between them; the scores form ridges which hold a thin paint between them. For really fine mullions, you could do a single score, but it would be difficult (not impossible) to fill it in with paint. Of course, scoring the clear material means that it must be thick enough to not be cut all the way through! At the time, I used a heavy acetate clear film which was being sold as a book report cover material, though heavy sheet styrene could be used as well.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, December 14, 2003 1:10 PM
I have read where some have used microscope slide covers to glaze windows in model buildings.

I plan to recycle some of the clear plastic used in packaging for windows in my buildings.

Thanks,

Dale B.

  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, December 14, 2003 1:10 PM
I have read where some have used microscope slide covers to glaze windows in model buildings.

I plan to recycle some of the clear plastic used in packaging for windows in my buildings.

Thanks,

Dale B.

  • Member since
    March 2003
  • 88 posts
Posted by denny99 on Sunday, December 14, 2003 12:43 PM
I use projector transparancy film for laser printers. I draw the window frame, then print it on the film. easy, quick and almost costless.
Denny Modeling the SP Coast Line in N scale in 1974
  • Member since
    March 2003
  • 88 posts
Posted by denny99 on Sunday, December 14, 2003 12:43 PM
I use projector transparancy film for laser printers. I draw the window frame, then print it on the film. easy, quick and almost costless.
Denny Modeling the SP Coast Line in N scale in 1974
  • Member since
    June 2003
  • From: NC, USA
  • 113 posts
Posted by Modeloldtimer on Sunday, December 14, 2003 1:08 AM
Tips for Plastic windows and tone down shine on plastics.

Mostly all Factory windows in kits are clear like glass.
To make my windows more lifelike in appearance, I use a
CLEAR ACRYLIC SEALER (Matte) SPRAY. Cost under 5 bucks.
It is ideal for use on wood and metal products, painted surfaces,
ceramics, plaster, Preserve maps, documents, prints, etc.
Can be found in crafts and decorative departments of stores,
such as Wal-Mart.
When sprayed on the inside of clear plastic windows, It will
leave a layer of acrylic that will frost the window. Before assembly
I spray my windows and let dry for 10 minutes then if more frosting
effect is needed I spray again. Use the spray/dry routine until your
desired effect is reached. Do not spray to much at one time, and
watch for unwanted running and drips caused by heavy over sprays.
I also use the clear (matte) acrylic to tone down the shine of plastic
in kits. I suggest you use the spray on a spare piece first and spray
using directions on the spray can. You must shake can as directed.
DO NOT Touch Plastic if acrylic is on finger or work is not dry.
If you touch the anything before it dries YOU WILL leave fingerprints.
I Use acetone/in nail polish remover to keep my fingers clean.
DO NOT use acrylic spray on model house windows, Store front windows
or any windows that must remain clear.
Hope you like the results as much as I do.

Modeloldtimer

Modeloldtimer

  • Member since
    June 2003
  • From: NC, USA
  • 113 posts
Posted by Modeloldtimer on Sunday, December 14, 2003 1:08 AM
Tips for Plastic windows and tone down shine on plastics.

Mostly all Factory windows in kits are clear like glass.
To make my windows more lifelike in appearance, I use a
CLEAR ACRYLIC SEALER (Matte) SPRAY. Cost under 5 bucks.
It is ideal for use on wood and metal products, painted surfaces,
ceramics, plaster, Preserve maps, documents, prints, etc.
Can be found in crafts and decorative departments of stores,
such as Wal-Mart.
When sprayed on the inside of clear plastic windows, It will
leave a layer of acrylic that will frost the window. Before assembly
I spray my windows and let dry for 10 minutes then if more frosting
effect is needed I spray again. Use the spray/dry routine until your
desired effect is reached. Do not spray to much at one time, and
watch for unwanted running and drips caused by heavy over sprays.
I also use the clear (matte) acrylic to tone down the shine of plastic
in kits. I suggest you use the spray on a spare piece first and spray
using directions on the spray can. You must shake can as directed.
DO NOT Touch Plastic if acrylic is on finger or work is not dry.
If you touch the anything before it dries YOU WILL leave fingerprints.
I Use acetone/in nail polish remover to keep my fingers clean.
DO NOT use acrylic spray on model house windows, Store front windows
or any windows that must remain clear.
Hope you like the results as much as I do.

Modeloldtimer

Modeloldtimer

  • Member since
    September 2002
  • 7,474 posts
Posted by ndbprr on Tuesday, August 12, 2003 10:49 AM
If Kristal Klear is the Microscale product I have made some pretty big windows but not following their directions. I think the biggest I made was about 1/2" x 3/4" which is what, about 4' by 7' in HO. Just put a big glob on the back of the wall on the narrowest side of the window. Then take a piece of wood or plastic wider than the window and in one quick move drag the whole mass to the other end. It leaves a nice film behind that doesn't build up at the edges. Still not as good as the real thing but acceptable.
  • Member since
    September 2002
  • 7,474 posts
Posted by ndbprr on Tuesday, August 12, 2003 10:49 AM
If Kristal Klear is the Microscale product I have made some pretty big windows but not following their directions. I think the biggest I made was about 1/2" x 3/4" which is what, about 4' by 7' in HO. Just put a big glob on the back of the wall on the narrowest side of the window. Then take a piece of wood or plastic wider than the window and in one quick move drag the whole mass to the other end. It leaves a nice film behind that doesn't build up at the edges. Still not as good as the real thing but acceptable.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, August 10, 2003 11:46 AM
That's what the sign on the bar says... WHISTLE STOP BAR
WET YOUR WHISTLE.... Wish I had a better camera.

Coming soon Sam n Ella's Resturant...
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Sunday, August 10, 2003 11:46 AM
That's what the sign on the bar says... WHISTLE STOP BAR
WET YOUR WHISTLE.... Wish I had a better camera.

Coming soon Sam n Ella's Resturant...
  • Member since
    September 2002
  • From: Nova Scotia, Northumberland Shore
  • 2,479 posts
Posted by der5997 on Friday, August 8, 2003 6:29 PM
Nice site the ZMT, flea. To answer your question about "What's the school bus doing at the Whistle Stop Bar?", may I suggest "wetting it's whistle". (Another Brit expression, sorry. [:o]

"There are always alternatives, Captain" - Spock.

  • Member since
    September 2002
  • From: Nova Scotia, Northumberland Shore
  • 2,479 posts
Posted by der5997 on Friday, August 8, 2003 6:29 PM
Nice site the ZMT, flea. To answer your question about "What's the school bus doing at the Whistle Stop Bar?", may I suggest "wetting it's whistle". (Another Brit expression, sorry. [:o]

"There are always alternatives, Captain" - Spock.

  • Member since
    November 2001
  • From: US
  • 732 posts
Posted by Javern on Friday, August 8, 2003 6:20 PM
QUOTE: Originally posted by flee307

To see my windows www.trainweb.org/zmtshortline/ at bottom of page


wow they look really nice flee
  • Member since
    November 2001
  • From: US
  • 732 posts
Posted by Javern on Friday, August 8, 2003 6:20 PM
QUOTE: Originally posted by flee307

To see my windows www.trainweb.org/zmtshortline/ at bottom of page


wow they look really nice flee
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, August 8, 2003 3:44 PM
To see my windows www.trainweb.org/zmtshortline/ at bottom of page
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, August 8, 2003 3:44 PM
To see my windows www.trainweb.org/zmtshortline/ at bottom of page
  • Member since
    November 2001
  • From: US
  • 732 posts
Posted by Javern on Friday, August 8, 2003 3:37 PM
Originally posted by der5997

Javern: What is the largest window you have been able to produce from Kristal Klear? I find it OK for things like Loco and vehicle windows, but for buildings??? Also, I find Kristal Klear dries with an uneven look, being thicker at the frame than in the centre. Thisis because it is a liquid going on, and has a meniscus that dries thicker.
]

with some practice I have used it on Walthers building kits such as the backshop. I think some of the uneveness that occurs looks good in my real old buildings, like in my house ( old house ) the old windows are kinda wavy and uneven. However if one has a lot of building windows to make perhaps the Kristal Klear is not the best
  • Member since
    November 2001
  • From: US
  • 732 posts
Posted by Javern on Friday, August 8, 2003 3:37 PM
Originally posted by der5997

Javern: What is the largest window you have been able to produce from Kristal Klear? I find it OK for things like Loco and vehicle windows, but for buildings??? Also, I find Kristal Klear dries with an uneven look, being thicker at the frame than in the centre. Thisis because it is a liquid going on, and has a meniscus that dries thicker.
]

with some practice I have used it on Walthers building kits such as the backshop. I think some of the uneveness that occurs looks good in my real old buildings, like in my house ( old house ) the old windows are kinda wavy and uneven. However if one has a lot of building windows to make perhaps the Kristal Klear is not the best
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, August 8, 2003 3:32 PM
The jel doesn't fog if you cut the windows oversize and use a dot in 2 diagonal corners and don't use accelerator. I use Ross ultra superglue gel which is 2 tubes for a $1 at Dollar General Stores. I have only had fog problems with the thin stuff, using accelerator, or too much jel. Also, apply the gel to the building helps.
  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, August 8, 2003 3:32 PM
The jel doesn't fog if you cut the windows oversize and use a dot in 2 diagonal corners and don't use accelerator. I use Ross ultra superglue gel which is 2 tubes for a $1 at Dollar General Stores. I have only had fog problems with the thin stuff, using accelerator, or too much jel. Also, apply the gel to the building helps.
  • Member since
    September 2002
  • From: Nova Scotia, Northumberland Shore
  • 2,479 posts
Posted by der5997 on Friday, August 8, 2003 12:15 PM
Javern: What is the largest window you have been able to produce from Kristal Klear? I find it OK for things like Loco and vehicle windows, but for buildings??? Also, I find Kristal Klear dries with an uneven look, being thicker at the frame than in the centre. Thisis because it is a liquid going on, and has a meniscus that dries thicker.

flea307: " All these plastics work best glue with gel superglue (ca)."
Don't you find the ca causes the plastic to fog up? If so, have you found a way to de-fog it?

"There are always alternatives, Captain" - Spock.

  • Member since
    September 2002
  • From: Nova Scotia, Northumberland Shore
  • 2,479 posts
Posted by der5997 on Friday, August 8, 2003 12:15 PM
Javern: What is the largest window you have been able to produce from Kristal Klear? I find it OK for things like Loco and vehicle windows, but for buildings??? Also, I find Kristal Klear dries with an uneven look, being thicker at the frame than in the centre. Thisis because it is a liquid going on, and has a meniscus that dries thicker.

flea307: " All these plastics work best glue with gel superglue (ca)."
Don't you find the ca causes the plastic to fog up? If so, have you found a way to de-fog it?

"There are always alternatives, Captain" - Spock.

  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Posted by Anonymous on Friday, August 8, 2003 10:27 AM
You could try thin strips of balsa wood for the frames and clear film for the windows. Scratch a window or two up with a sharp pointed x-acto knife to simulate a broken window or if in a larger scale a spider web. Even try cutting out a couple little chunks of a broken window and lay them on the ground outside the building like they fell out after the window was broken by some punks on a rampage! [}:)]

Subscriber & Member Login

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Users Online

Search the Community

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Model Railroader Newsletter See all
Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!