Apologies if this is something already discussed/commented on --
While opening some oysters the other day , it occurred to me that these shells would probably make some fine 'topography' - with or without painting/whatever.
What would be needed probably is to use some kind of lap grinder to get a flat surface for setting them down.
Eat the oysters first.
davidmbedard OMG.....wow.....just wow.........worst idea ever.
OMG.....wow.....just wow.........worst idea ever.
I know, right! Eating oysters?? Yuck! ;)
Seriously, if they have a good rock-like texture they might be worth using as masters for making rock molds.
When I saw this Thread, I thought at first the OP was asking how to reproduce sea-shell "gravel" paving, like this article discusses. Next, I figured the OP meant grinding up dried shells (cleaned and washed, with all "meat" removed, so no rot or smell) for model landscaping ground cover. But no, that was not to be.I really can't think of any Earth landscape found in an area likely to be served by rail that would match your average oyster shell, whether whole or broken into large pieces (Eris and Sedna, both with extensive metre-gauge systems, are different stories). Maybe some sea shell shapes could resemble lava flows, if you step back and squint (a lot).
You can buy ground oyster shell at any feed store or an online purveyor of poultry feed. I give my hens ground oyster shells to supplement their calcium intake for better egg shell quality. Some of it is almost a dust, you would have to sift it into various grades.
http://www.amazon.com/Manna-Pro-0806960236-Crushed-5-Pound/dp/B000MD59TC
Isn't Woodland Scenics ballast oyster shells?
I was looking for shale talus some time back and found 12" square slate tiles at the big-box building supply. I got a few for 50¢ each then broke them up and sorted through the pieces to make a nice crumbled rock at the bottom of a rock face.
Good Luck, Ed
Hey! Be nice!
The OP did say that the oysters should be eaten first! And yes, the shells are going to smell even if you wash them very well, but how better to create the atmosphere of a seaside scene, stink included!
To the OP with all due respect, I don't think your idea is going to catch on. Sorry.
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
davidmbedardWoodlands scenic ballast is Walnut shells.
THAT'S why they taste so good sprinkled on my coffee cake!
Ed
gmpullman davidmbedard Woodlands scenic ballast is Walnut shells. THAT'S why they taste so good sprinkled on my coffee cake! Ed
davidmbedard Woodlands scenic ballast is Walnut shells.
Far better then oysters.YUK!
Larry
Conductor.
Summerset Ry.
"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt Safety First!"
rrebell davidmbedard Woodlands scenic ballast is Walnut shells. I hear this all the time, but no one has ever offered proof, no x employee, nothing!
I hear this all the time, but no one has ever offered proof, no x employee, nothing!
I can say with almost certainty that WS ballast is not walnut shells. I use a half dozen grades of walnut shells in my profession, from paste to ground to chunk and none of it resembles WS ballast in either look, texture, or weight.
As to oyster shells in scenery, I am guessing most of you are confusing actual wild shells with the classic, clean and smooth shell that you see in pictures. With a bit of imagination, the majority of wild oyster shells can indeed look quite like rocks. The smell, however, would be a major issue to me. Perhaps aging and drying them outside for a few months (or years!) would help.
My wife loves oysters on the half shell. Want mine cooked, thank you, I prefer oyster stew.
Yes, I would clean the shells well before using on the layout, but I have seen many rock faces that could be represented by a shell. I don't see the need to flatten the edges, just press them into Sculptamold, plaster or caulk to hold them in place.
Good luck,
Richard