I finally got around to detailing and weathering the BT switcher, in this case a Model Power Mogul converted into a switcher by removing the pilot truck.  I was curious what could be done in N scale with close up photography.  So far, so good.    

The Flagg book makes reference to an American Can facility along First Avenue, an industry that would be a good fit, a good look for the terminal.  Since the BT is proto freelanced, I’m not worried about making anything close to an exact model, just something that appears plausible. I believe the photo above is…

One of the most distinctive and iconic features of WW2 New York was the ubiquitous Belgian Block roadways.  The question becomes how to effectively model them.  Even my HO scale counterparts bemoan how difficult they are to represent.  Cast plaster is a major challenge and a method where it’s hard to control the results  There…

….and here we have the completed structure.  Stand off details include downspouts, lamps, dock bumpers and open window panes.     The coloring of the DPM sides encompassed a number of dry brushed layers.  First was mortar, followed by dry brushing on a brick color.  After that I dry brushed on a mix of brown…

This structure will be a combination of traditional kit components (DPM for the sides) and photo laminates on the front and back.  The photo laminates were needed as an effective way of handling the signage.  The .060″ styrene you see for the roof and ends tends to de-stabilize and warp over time.  To combat this…