Videos & Photos Videos How To Expert Tips How to model discarded ties

How to model discarded ties

By Angela Cotey | December 20, 2011

| Last updated on December 8, 2020


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Model Railroader associate editor Cody Grivno shows how to model discarded ties.

25 thoughts on “How to model discarded ties

  1. I like all rroaders enjoy your tips Cody, and I've used them in the past and since i'm still building, i'm always looking to add detail and proto realizm. Your MR tips are helping me do that!!

  2. I've found that cheap watercolor paints (such as the Crayola ones that come in a plastic tray) work well for staining light-colored ties. In addition, water soluble acrylic paints can be slightly diluted and used for the darker colors.

  3. I used the same technique. I used match sticks, the strike anywhere kind cut to size. A great addition to any layout.

  4. Great detail. Ijust put some ties alongside my railroad but gues what…..I didn't put any spike holes in them .Back to the drawingboard. Like your segment a lot cody.J.H

  5. Cody, thanks for the idea ! I'll add to a suggestion…replaced ties usually have adz or wear/compression marks at the tie-plate or rail location, and maybe some exaggeration of the grain or "flange marks" added prior to staining, to add to the aged appearance. Bob C.

  6. Walking beside a railroad track, I noticed that old ties along the edge were really beat up. Perhaps some that are quite old looking (gray) and broken apart would also enhance a layout.
    Great tip Cody!

  7. Guys,Remember to keep safety in mind when placing the ties along the track..A switchman will be walking by the track in order to uncouple cars or to inspect the train in the event of a emergency stop.

  8. This Is A Great Tip, I'll Make Sure To Come Back And Watch Again When It Comes Time To Make Them! Thanks Cody!

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