I recently returned to the hobby after more than 20 years and am preparing to build a number of depots and other structures for my 1968-era Santa Fe HO layout. First task is to obtain basic tools and items needed for scratchbuilding -- i.e. knives, cutting boards, adhesives, files, miter chop cutters, etc. I assume I will be working primarily with styrene, wood, and perhaps cardstock. Since so much has changed since I last did this in the 1980s I'd appreciate advice from more seasoned modelers. What are the essential tools needed -- and what brands are best?
I find that my NWSL Chopper 2 is an invaluable tool. http://www.nwsl.com/Catalog/pg011-cat2-01-v0605.pdf lots of places carry them on-line. I got mine from Micromark ages ago during a sale. You listed most of the other things I use.
Simon Modelling CB&Q and Wabash See my slowly evolving layout on my picturetrail site http://www.picturetrail.com/simontrains and our videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/MrCrispybake?feature=mhum
I have found the micromark nibbler to be pretty handy http://www.micromark.com/NIBBLING-CUTTER,7761.html
Santa Fe,
You've already have a good start with the list that you have. I might add the following:
I'm sure there are others, Santa Fe, but that's all I can think of at the moment. Hope that helps...
Tom
https://tstage9.wixsite.com/nyc-modeling
Time...It marches on...without ever turning around to see if anyone is even keeping in step.
I was able to complete a scratch built passenger station from photographs with little more than a scale rule, an Xacto knife, a pair of scissors, spring clothespins for clamps, and a cutting board.
Other useful tools.
A pin vise and a set of numbered drills.
2-56 tap
Small combination square.
Dremel tool with a set of bits.
Vise
Good lights
set of jewelers screw drivers
center punch
8 oz ball pein hammer
set of needle files
a flat mill file
pair of dividers
David Starr www.newsnorthwoods.blogspot.com
Another useful tool is the NWSL True Sander. This is the best way to get multiple pieces EXACTLY the same size.
I have made good use of an item in the MicroMark catalog that being a steel plate, with a grid of squares grooved into the surface, and edges at 90 degrees, that comes with strong magnets. It is good for joining walls at 90 degrees, but it has other uses that come to mind during construction.
Also of value, and I am not sure they are made anymore, is a vernier caliper where the dial reads off in actual HO scale.
There are some specialized clamps for building corners as well that are very nice to have.
Maybe not a tool per se, but the actual full Plastruct catalog with price list is an essential companion. They make an awful lot of stuff that I never notice at their hobby shop displays.
Dave Nelson
Thanks to everyone for the great suggestions! I am new to scratchbuilding. I've done a lot of plastic, cardstock and metal building kits in the past, and some kitbashing, but never scratchbuilding an actual prototype building. Anyone have suggestions for the best reference materials, web sites or books that might be a good companion as I get started?
This link will take you to a forum loaded with modellers that build craftsman kits and scratchbuild, you will find a ton of material here
http://www.railroad-line.com/