Sandy Shores - More wooden structures

Despite the deadline fast approaching, progress has been somewhat slower than I hoped the past few days; life does find ways of sucking all your modelmaking time away! Regardless, the wooden groyne and walkway up to the lighthouse have both been added. First up, the groyne:

Above: The first step as always to to start marking out and cutting up wooden lollipop sticks. I've had a box of these for many many years, and haven't even got halfway through them yet! The little chopper tool is absolutely invaluable for work like this. Note the balsa lengths already cut to size in the background.

Above: Since the lollipop sticks are a little too thick for this job, the easiest way to get them down to size was with a sandpaper attachment on the Dremel. In order to prevent a snowstorm of sawdust, I've also got the vacuum cleaner on at the same time!

Above: I wasn't looking for a uniform thickness (the sea would make relatively short work of even the most robust wood), so the little bumps are fine that are visible in the photo above. Note also I've used a slitting disc in the Dremel to cut random holes in the most vulnerable lengths.

Above: And now for something I don't usually do (but will continue doing from now on!), "distressing" the wood with a wire burring disc (again in the Dremel). The same treatment was done on the balsa uprights, although you need to take more care due to the soft nature of the wood. Thankfully, I'm looking for some serious water and wind-beaten effects, so any serious damage is absolutely fine; some places I really pressed hard (particularly around the holes), to suggest rotten sections.

Above: Here's a before and after shot. The grain showing through nicely on the left. This will also prove handy when it comes to weathering.

Above: After having fixed the various components together with wood glue and old track fixing nails, it was time to make holes in the layout with which to locate the groyne. Note that the slatted side is on the lighthouse side; remember, we need to build the beach up on this side, which is a perfect excuse for a groyne.

Above: Now it's time to start weathering it. My usual process for wood is used; starting with the wash of gunmetal grey...

Below: ... then a wash of brown sand...

Below: ... and finally a drybrushing of a combination of light sand and white (for that sunbleached look).

 Below: As I said earlier, the other wooden structure that needed attention was the footbridge going up to the lighthouse. The original handrail posts were too thick, so they completely replaced; as were some of the planks on the top. Everything here is (as always) made of cut-up lollipop sticks. Surprising how small you can cut them up!

Below: And finally, here it is painted the same way as groyne (although I haven't got around to drybrushing the white/sand colour yet so it's too dark). You may also note I've finally added the clay top to the lighthouse tower, as well as the curve underneath the balcony.

And so that brings us up to date! I've also ordered the LED lighting for the layout, so that should arrive in time for the exhibition. Let's hope so anyway!