What is Perma-scene?

[Anonymous]

In Lou Sassi's book, "A Realistic HO Model Railroad for Beginners," he make something called "ground goop" to use when scenicking. One of the ingredient is something called "Perma-Scene". Does anyone know what this is? I've never seen it in stores or ads. Any recommended substitutes? Thanks much for any help.

Don

[Anonymous]

Perma-Scene is only going to be found at hobby shops that target model railroaders; it is a granular "plaster" that mixes with water to become a sculpting paste, although it cannot reproduce fine detail the way a gypsum-based plaster will (hydrocal or joint compound). It's benefits are in how mess-free it is, because you can mix small batches (as much as you need) and not have to worry about a curing time; it just dries.

I personally do not like it because of the granule size; it is impossible to hide the texture. As an additive to other plaster recipes, indeed, it might be used in order to impart texture, but I have found a number of worthwhile substitutes. The best direct substitute is a product called CelluClay, which can be found at craft stores as well as hobby stores; it's just cellulose, which is essentially the same as newspaper shredded up. I've used newsprint shredded and that works fine too, but shredding it fine enough is a chore. Joint compound is a good additive, in that it is water soluble and just dries rather than cures, but it has a smooth texture and can capture details from rock molds. Another interesting admixture is scoopable kitty litter; this comes as fine grey granules that tend to cement themselves together when wetted, which is just what we want right? If you're having problems with cats on the layout (see another discussion thread), kitty litter might nto be the best, but I use it all over; I have found some that looks pretty much exactly like my track ballast in terms of size, shape, and color, and I do even mix it in with my ballast to help the ballast absorb the diluted glue when I go to fix it in place. I should also mention, another possible admixture, if you live in a region with good clay soils, is the dirt from your yard. Of course, if your soil is too sandy then it will have the effect of weakening your plaster mixture, but good clay will actually work very well, with the benefit of imparting a natural color.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the response. I'll experiment with some of your suggestions.

Don