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Blueprints??????

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  • Member since
    April 2003
  • 305,205 posts
Blueprints??????
Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, July 5, 2006 4:57 PM
As you all probabally know if you have a tight budget, Plastic buildings or structures can be VERY expensive!

I was just wondering if any of you have any blueprints,tips,or suggestions on how i can affordably make my own buildings realisticly!

[:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:)][:
  • Member since
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  • From: Poconos, PA
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Posted by TomDiehl on Wednesday, July 5, 2006 5:07 PM
First, I'd stay away from balsa. It has a tendency to warp when you place the model in any damp area. Basswood and styrene (plastic) are only slightly more expensive and much better to work with. Plus they are more stable once the building is finished.

As far as plans, what type and size buildings are you looking to build? To get started, you can go to the index of magazines (link at the top) and look up the type of building you're interested in building, the codes after each entry will tell you if it has plans or not. If you don't have access to the particular issue, post it on here and ask if anybody can scan and send the plans to you.
Smile, it makes people wonder what you're up to. Chief of Sanitation; Clowntown
  • Member since
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  • From: AIKEN S.C. & Orange Park Fl.
  • 2,047 posts
Posted by claycts on Wednesday, July 5, 2006 5:44 PM
QUOTE: Originally posted by raptor55

Hey as you may know when your on a tight budget Plastic buildings can be EXPENSIVE!

Could anyone give me any blueprints,tips,or plans on building my own Balsa wood buildings?


I got some Laun 1/16" thick and that works well. Balsa is great for planes. As stated basswood is the answer. I still use cardstock and foam board.
Close to a high school or trade school? You can get their scraps from art class. Other source is a Hobby Lobby. Get to be friends with the art work mounting people and you can get their scraps. Also you can get the damaged basswood CHEAP if you grovel and hand arounfd enough.
Good luck
George P.
P.S. you can google the type of building and then search for the plans. Did that for a station and a coal tower. both where free plans.
Take Care George Pavlisko Driving Race cars and working on HO trains More fun than I can stand!!!
  • Member since
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  • From: Orig: Tyler Texas. Lived in seven countries, now live in Sundown, Louisiana
  • 25,640 posts
Posted by jeffrey-wimberly on Wednesday, July 5, 2006 7:44 PM
When using balsa or basswood, remember to seal it with shellac or a similar product. Otherwise, it will soak up enormous amounts of paint.

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  • From: Rimrock, Arizona
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Posted by SpaceMouse on Wednesday, July 5, 2006 8:22 PM
For cheap styrene, look at "For Sale" signs at Wally World.

Chip

Building the Rock Ridge Railroad with the slowest construction crew west of the Pecos.

  • Member since
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  • From: Coquitlam BC
  • 629 posts
Posted by fsm1000 on Thursday, July 6, 2006 7:17 AM
I seal my wood with dilute white glue. It also makes it easier to glue together later as well. :)
My name is Stephen and I want to give back to this great hobby. So please pop over to my website and enjoy the free tutorials. If you live near me maybe we can share layouts. :) Have fun and God bless. http://fsm1000.googlepages.com

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