Make Your First Steps Precise

This time I took the time to actually go through the instructions and match them up with the materials. I needed to know what it takes to build it and then how to work in my intended modifications. I found it also helps to dry fit sections to get an idea of how much adhesive will be needed.

My first step was to paint the outside of the mill with a thinned down dark avocado green and the interior with a dark grey.

I use water base paints from the"Color Traditions" line I pick up at Michaels for a dollar a pop. By thinning them with water, I get really thin paint application with a brush.

Having a thin steel plate on my workbench has helped me cure the warping tendency of wooden wall material. I paint the wall, place it on the steel, span it with a couple wood strips follow with a pair of magnets and then another wall. more sticks and magnets. I continue to build the sandwich until I have them all in the pile which I leave in place overnight.

I started by partially building the shell which will become my stage for the next few weeks. I kind of like the tab-slot type of construction which Laser Art offers as the fit is more square (if you can get more square than square).

I glued the first floor into the slots on the rear wall and added the two side walls to give the structure the ability to stand on its own. I also dropped the inner framing into place on the end wall and set the front wall aside for the time being.

GristMill Buildtorial
StepOne ModelingInterior
JunkBox Details DuplicatingSub-Assemblies
TrashyMillpond Dam MillModeling Resources

Enter your E-mail Address
Enter your First Name (optional)
Then

Don't worry — your e-mail address is totally secure.
I promise to use it only to send you Scale Modeling Tips & Tools Monthly.