Scratchbuilding is exactly what it says on the tin; building from scratch.
True scratchbuilding is done completely using raw materials, from the foundations of your model train layout, to the buildings and detailing you use to decorate your model railway.
Rather than using a shop-bought kit, which simply needs assembling, scratchbuilding is the creation of a scale model by hand from raw materials.
Plywood, clay, plaster, metal and plastic are all materials that can be used to create your model railway if you choose to scratch build it.
Whether you choose to buy some of the extra layout detail, such as buildings, signs etc. is down to personal preference.
There are definite advantages to scratchbuilding.
Your layout becomes completely unique, with the exact measurements and specifications you desire.
It is very satisfying to stand back and admire your hard work once completed. The raw materials required to scratchbuild are cheaper than a commercial kit, which is an attraction to those with the practical skills to make a successful scale model by hand.
Planning is an essential part of scratchbuilding.
The concept of your railway layout can be based on commercial designs. Many scratchbuilders gain their experience from assembling kits first.
To begin with, you may wish to kitbash to help you get started.
With a big project, merging pre-made kits to create a new design, without having to think one up yourself, can be a good way to start.
Always plan your layout carefully.
You can include as much detail as you like. Specialized software is available to plan your model railway on a computer.
Simulations of the track and trains are very useful if you struggle to visualize a 2D design in 3D.
Making the transformation from paper to model isn’t easy, however scratch building allows ultimate flexibility as well as the ability to recreate a totally original model train layout.
Although scratch building uses raw materials, this doesn’t mean you can’t use things like plastic.
It simply means that instead of buying landscape detail, you build everything to start from scratch.
For example, instead of buying trees or buildings, you will scratch build them yourself.
Using wood, cardboard, or even paper, every last piece of your model train layout can be hand made from raw materials.
Very satisfying! Scratchbuilding is not for the faint-hearted but is incredibly satisfying.
It takes time and requires motivation, precision and patience. Almost everything can be scratchbuilt, from the buildings to the sheep grazing on your mountains.
I recommend to start by learning the basics through kit building.
This will give you an idea of how commercial, pre-made items are finished and then you can try to replicate them.
Scratchbuilding is a satisfying way to create your own unique model train layout.
When every last detail is perfect, sit back and enjoy your hard work. You deserve it!
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Tags: scratchbuilding
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Leave A Reply (6 comments So Far)
Ian
542 days ago
I have done a bit of scratch building being in the NMRA Australasian chapter. My latest is a small hunting supplies shop. I will take some photos and send them on to you.
I enjoy all aspects of Model Railway but scratchbuilding lets your imagination run riot.
Lenartz
541 days ago
I am a beginner at at this hobby and I already scratchbuilt a wagon or two and is very satisfying, It does take a lot of time planning and building. Unfortunately I cannot attach a photo to show one..
MIKE
541 days ago
I HAVE PROBABLY SCRATCH BUILT ENOUGH TO SAY I HAVE STEPPED OUT THERE WITHAN IDEA OR SO AND CREATED SOME REALLY IMPRESSIVE STUFF, MOSTLY SCERNERY FROM BRIDGE SUPPORTS TO CLIFFF SIDES. ALWAYS A GOOD RULE TO FOLLOW IS KEEP IT SIMPLE, YOU WILL GET MORE SATISFACTION FROM GETTING SOMETHING COMPLETED THAN HAVING A LOT OF UNFINISHED SCEANS ON YOUR LAY OUT.ALTHOUGH SOMETIMES INSPERATION COMES AND GOES. BUT REALLY HOW CAN YOU MESSS IT UP? YOU CAN ADD, SUBTRACT, CHANGE ANYTHING WHEN YOU ARE THE CREATOR.
Ken
362 days ago
There are times you just can’t find what you want in a kit. When that happens you either scratchbuild or kit bash. I’ve done both, and of all the projects I’ve built, these are the ones people remember. If you are nervous about a pure, from scratch, scratchbuild, start with a kitbash. Find something close and rework it to fit your idea. After you do that a few times, you will have aquired a few tools, skills, and developed a feel for materials and techniques. Then you can confidently step out with an original creation.
chris
323 days ago
I started with BTS kits (Better Than Scratch). Then I moved on to the Bar Mills One Kit which includes walls windows and doors. Many single items like door knobs are available at hobby shops. Play attention to toys as well. They often fit into scale well. You can even kitbash a goat (!) by cutting it up and rearranging the parts (head up, head down, rolling on the ground, etc.). Use grid paper and scale rulers to ensure the size of what you’re building. (I have one building that is too small…) Above all else be daring and have fun!
jerry
13 days ago
Back in the day….The main reason for scratchbuilding was financial. I realy didn’t have the money for kits & used what materials I could scrounge up. Some 50 years later I have a different layout but still use a church I scratchbuilt. I have a small station that is waiting for a spot & a general store that has to be finished.
Finances could be an issue today also. Cereal boxes provide material for walls & roofs if properly braced. If you are careful, you can make window frames from appropriate size stripwood as I did. For the cost you might want to buy plastic doors & windows If funds allow….HAPPY MODELING!