17
Color Rocks
Color rocks using the Leopard Spot painting technique. It is easy to do and has
realistic results. Let colors run together naturally. Dilute Rock Colors liquid pigments
in individual cups. If color is too light when applied, add more pigment to the wash.
If they are too dark, add more water.
1. Dilute Rock Colors with water to create color washes.
Yellow Ocher – 1-part pigment to 8-parts water
Burnt Umber – 1-part pigment to 8-parts water
Black – 1-part pigment to 16-parts water
2. Using the Foam Pad Applicator, dab Yellow Ocher randomly over 1/3 of rock face. Rinse Applicator.
3. Dab Burnt Umber randomly over a different 1/3 of the rock, leaving 1/3 white. Rinse Applicator.
4. Apply Black wash over the entire rock to tie colors together
(Fig. 51)
. Rinse Applicator.
5. Repeat the Leopard Spot technique on each rock casting.
NOTE:
Save remaining color washes for coloring Tunnel Portals and touch-up work.
Color Terrain
Earth Undercoat models dirt and soil by creating a terrain base of natural-looking earth tones and highlights. It hides the
white plaster and has a realistic appearance when covered with landscape materials.
1. In a container, mix entire bottle of Earth Undercoat (4 fl oz) with 1 cup (8 fl oz) water. Mix thoroughly.
2. Dip Foam Pad Applicator or a 1” foam paintbrush in diluted Earth Undercoat. Brush over entire Plaster Cloth surface. Dab
pigment into crevices and low spots for complete coverage. Earth Undercoat should be slightly translucent.
3. Do NOT apply over rock castings.
Color and Install Tunnel Portals
1. Color Tunnel Portals using the same Leopard Spot paint technique that was
used to color rock castings. Let dry.
2. Test fit Portals in front of Foam Tunnel Portals openings. The Tunnel Portal
openings must be centered over track. If Hydrocal Portal does not fit properly
against the Foam Portal, cut into the Plaster Cloth terrain with a hobby knife for
a proper fit
(Fig. 53)
. Seams can be hidden with landscape materials.
3. Test train clearance through Portal before gluing in place.
4. Spread a layer of Foam Tack Glue on front of Foam Portal and backside of
Hydrocal Portal. Wait for glue to dry (max. working time, 1 hour) and install
Tunnel Portals.
Fig. 51
Fig. 53
Fig. 52
Attach Hydrocal
Tunnel Portals
Attach Hydrocal
Tunnel Portals
