Bachmann Trains & Accessories

Z Scale Model Trains Movie
Z Scale Model Trains Movie

There are many options in creating scenery for Z scale model train layouts, but one element that you see commonly in model railroading is rock formations, which add tremendous realism and natural beauty to a layout. Of course you can buy rocks and boulders out of model train hobby store, or you can even use real rocks, which are inconvenient because of the weight they add to your layout. However, it’s a lot of fun to create your own lightweight rock molds, and for Z scale in particular, this is a better way to control the size and shape of the formations in your layout. Plus, it can be done cheaply. Here’s the basic technique:

You need to start with a latex rubber, and a good one is made by a company called Woodland Scenics. This substance has a thin consistency and can be applied with a regular paintbrush, so this is what you should use for casting your rocks.

Step one: select a material you will use to represent the rock formations. You can use wood, cardboard, rolled-up newspaper, or even real rocks, but the point of this is to select something that represents the shape of a large real-life rock formation, which you will use to create a paintable mold.

Step two: apply a layer of latex rubber using a paintbrush, then wrap the form in cheesecloth or gauze, applying another layer of latex rubber on top of it. Allow each coat of latex rubber to dry before adding another coat. If you want extremely durable rock molds, add three, four, or even five coats to build up the size and strength of the mold.

Step three: once you have a durable layer of rubber in cheesecloth that is completely dry, you can keep it like it is and paint it, or you can remove the material inside leaving a light weight rock shaped mold.

This technique will give you great-looking rocks, which can be designed to your exact specifications, adding depth and scenic beauty to your Z Scale train layout.

For some excellent info on scale model train sets and developing layouts, I recommend this ebook: http://www.scale-model-trains.info/.

For more about Z Scale and some interesting tips, tricks, and resources, go here: Z Scale Layouts.

Z-scale model train running very slow