The idea of dabbling in 7mm scale returned over Christmas, so I decided to scratch the itch once and for all by returning to my idea of modelling a scene loosely based on Kington engine shed. With nothing to lose other than my sanity, I cleared a space and planned the idea out full size. I had already discovered that a 7mm scale model of Kington shed would be far too big, and favoured a stone building rather than one of brick. I also fancied the idea of modelling a couple of buildings designed by George Stokes.
I prepared this rough sketch a while back when planning a 4mm scale diorama of the same scene. The track could curve to the right, or left on a scale 20 chain curve. The next stop involved mocking up a few buildings as well as the track plan, fortunately I have a friend who is a dab hand with Templot, and I ended up with this scheme which measures 6 ft x 16".......
As you can see, even the cut down shed is enormous, and overpowers the scene, now that alone is a none starter for me. I started to mock the bridge up, but when I saw the size of it I had second thoughts. For the scene was becoming top heavy, more length and width could have improved things, but they are luxuries that I don't have. The other problem is finding room for the layout, bearing in mind that a least another 5ft would be needed for two cassette decks. And another thing, after thirty odd years of having a permanent layout I just couldn't put up with having to set things up, and take things down a couple of hours later. I could of course scrap Llangunllo, and rearrange my modelling room to avoid that, but I've unfinished business with the old layout. So I think this idea is more suitable for 4mm, and any thoughts of 7mm modelling would be best catered for by a simple termini such as this which has featured here before.
No big engine shed, or mill, just simple rustic buildings, think wood, and wavey tin and you won't be far out. Having one cassette deck rather than two cuts the space needed straightaway, and though operating isn't at the top of my list this idea offers far more interest. What next, well I'll probably work this idea up in much the same way as the shed scheme, sit back and take on board the lessons that I've learned. In the meantime work continues on Llangunllo, but more of that another time.
Geoff
Not to worry the blackening fluid and paintbrush will put that right tomorrow.
