As the Model Railroader staff continues to work on the scenery for the HO scale Winter Hill quarry branch, it becomes apparent that they need to add the illusion of distance to the scene. An easy solution to this common model railroading problem is to add a distant treeline along the layout backdrop. Follow associate editor Cody Grivno as he shows you how to model a treeline using scuff pad material.
Building the HO scale Winter Hill quarry branch, part 7
By Angela Cotey | February 19, 2013
| Last updated on November 23, 2020
How to model a distant treeline
Good tips Cody and Steven. I'm experimenting some small scenes on my layout and I remember seeing this from the original series. Now 2 years later, I'm revisiting to make sure I do it right. Love this MRVP!
Allan
good idea I could also use trees
Wow this was a great tip… My wife viewed this with me and is very interested in trying this process..
Thnx,
neat idea, i am rebuilding my n scale platform and this is great,thanks
I like it! I bought some smaller (pad size) pieces to try it out. Thanks for showing how it's done!
Excellent!
I was really impressed by what the scuff pad did. When you started I was not overly confident it would look good. But you did not really see the pad, it was just a block to the wall. Darn good technique. I will use it.
On a side note, do you guys get paid big bucks to build the layout? What a great magazine! Thanks.
very interesting!!!!
GREAT WAY TO SCENIC BACKDROP…THANK YOU!
Very nice technique. Have not thought of this before. I have been using digital photography for my backdrop on the SM&Q then planting the trees in front of the backdrop. I use smaller trees in the background in order to get a forced perspective. You do nice work.
Another great video and easy to understand instructions.
I have been looking for the scuff pad material but as of this date can only find the Scotch brand in a 2 pack that will be not enough for the work we have to do on the PJ&S RR any body have suggestions as where to look next LOWES dose not have it here
can't wait to try it on our club layout
I really enjoy your videos on "how to". Keep up the good work.
Just excellent I am building my first layout and these tips are a great help.
I plan to model a branch line Northern Pacific to include a saw mill and small town in the Pacific North West
Thank you and keep up the good work
One of the most valuable tips here is the identifying of commonly available building materials which can be repurposed for modeling use.
So simple yet so effective, great job Cody, always enjoy your videos, keep them coming!
The scuff pad is a nice touch. It appears much better than a painted backdrop of trees and bushes.
That is a great how to article!!!!
Good idea! It makes me wonder what other materials I have around could be used with this approach. Thanks, keep up the good work.
Great video. Love the technique for making background trees.
I am probably asking a novel question, but wher does a person get "scuff pad"?
I always like Cody's demonstrations. His techniques give the backdrops great realism!
This is a really good idea! It looks very realistic!
Nice video. Well shot and informative. I'll be using this technique