Coal wagons for Sherton Abbas part 2
A previous blog entry described the building of these wagons http://www.rmweb.co.uk/community/index.php?/blog/1131/entry-21530-coal-wagons-for-sherton-abbas/
Once I’d finished building the four wagons they need painting. I’ve tried using acrylic paints in the past but still much prefer working using enamels. The insides were painted in a greyish yellow base coat to represent unpainted wood, this was then dry brushed in browns and gunmetal to represent wood grain. The under frames, internal strapping and solebar iron work were painted in matt black. A fine brush was used to tidy up the lettering which I’d damaged here and there during construction. Next time I’ll varnish the sides to seal them before building starts!
In order to tone down the wagon’s paintwork I applied a dilute wash of dark grey over all the internal and external surfaces. Once dry this muted the colours nicely without masking them too much. I then dry brushed lighter greys and rust tones over the iron work to highlight the textures and bring out the detail in the under frame and internal strapping.
Wagons after application of dilute grey wash
Once everything had dried a wash of dilute black was applied inside the wagon to simulate coal dust and enhance the separation of the internal planking. A similar but more subtle wash was then applied to the external surfaces again to enhance the surface detail and planking.
Wagons after dilute black wash
A light application of coal dust and crushed coal was then brushed into the internal corners and planking of the wagons and fixed in place with a mist of aerosol clear matt varnish.
I use Spratt & Winkle couplings on my stock, which although not particularly aesthetic, do work reliably and allow hands free shunting. Before assembly I chemically blackened the brass components using Birchwood Casey "Brass Black", which stops the shiny brass couplings looking too obtrusive!
Now the wagons are finished here are a few pictures of them in service on the layout:-)
Lady Jayne emerging from the Abbey woods on the private siding after a delivery of coal to the brick works.
Proceeding down the line into Sherton Abbas station.
With the signal set to clear "Lady Jayne" can proceed across the double slip prior to pushing the wagons into the exchange siding.
Placing the empty wagons into the exchange siding where they will be collected by the next pick up goods.
I'm pleased with the way the wagons have turned out and feel that the extra effort involved in adding the internal planking and bolt heads has been worthwhile. It does however mean that I'm going to have to "revisit" some of my other wagons who are sadly lacking! :-)
Until next time......
Best wishes
Dave
Edited by wenlock
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