Class
Creating an Agricultural Scene Class + DVD
$49.99
$14.99
At a Glance:
- In-depth Instruction; over 95 mins
- On-demand video access anytime
- Bonus downloadable PDF resources
- Access to class Q&A
Item:
U0034Q
Description
Description
Model railroad layouts typically depict towns or industrial areas where the action of the railroad happens. These scenes are usually separated by some open country scenery.
But what should we depict in that open scenery? What can we model that will fill the space while creating interest?
One good option it to model agricultural scenes. Farms and ranches add a sense of life and action to what otherwise might seem a very static, lifeless scene.
In this Model Railroad Academy class, “Creating an Agricultural Scene,” you’ll learn start-to-finish how to model an agricultural scene depicting a hay field and a corn field during the fall harvest.
You will see how to plan and develop the scene; how to build up the scenic base to add drama and interest to the overall scene; and how to detail the scene to depict the corn harvest.
You’ll be introduced to materials and techniques to help you depict the earth in a farm field, fence posts, individual corn stalks, wet earth, and more. You will also learn how to select colors that tell the story of the scene, depicting realistically the right season in the right location.
When you are finished with this class you will be able to create an agricultural scene for your own model railroad layout that is realistic and dynamic.
In addition to your video instruction, you’ll get a helpful Class Guide downloadable PDF that you can print out and use as a reference as you plan for, and work on, your agricultural scene.
NOTE: You’ll receive this Class video instruction in two forms: As on-demand streaming video (in your MRA Account); and as a physical DVD, mailed to you.
Class Sessions
Session 1: Introduction
11:33
In this introductory session, you’ll learn how to plan out and lay out an agricultural scene. You will also be introduced to the materials and tools you will need to complete such a scene.
Session 2: Finding the Radius and Glue Down
10:00
In this session, you’ll learn how to prepare the Styrofoam base for the fields, cut them to shape around track and other scenic elements, and adhere them to the layout base.
Session 3: Forming Embankments
26:09
See how to use a hot knife tool to shape the Styrofoam for embankments, driveways, and drainage ditches. You will also see how to use plaster cloth to prepare the base for scenery.
Session 4: Working with Plaster
9:25
This session will teach you how to apply a plaster layer to the scenic base. You will also learn various techniques for smoothing the plaster or texturing it to represent various scenic forms.
Session 5: Coloring the Terrain
20:31
Here, you’ll learn how to paint the scene to realistically represent earth in the field areas. You will learn to choose colors that depict different types of soil in different areas of the scene. You will also learn how to add interesting details like tractor tire tracks and various grass and weed highlights.
Session 6: Planting Corn
16:49
In the final session, you’ll see how to lay out the cornfield in a logical, realistic manner and how to plant the corn stalks in the field. You will see how to represent stubble in the harvested portion of the field and add a fence to the field.
Your Instructor
Doug Hodgdon
Douglas Hodgdon joined the Model Railroad Academy in 2016 and has a passion for helping fellow railway enthusiasts pursue their love of trains. He received his first train set at just three years old, a Marx wind-up, which captivated his interest. Since then, Doug has maintained a fascination with model trains. His journey began as a teenager working at a hobby store, eventually evolving into a 50-year-long profession dedicated to constructing model railroads across various scales, from Z scale to 1 1/2" to the foot (1:8) scale. Doug specializes in S scale, specifically the Proto 64 variety, where he operates his Southern Pacific "Citrus District" layout, spanning 2' x 18' and utilizing a waybill system. Doug believes that model railroading, often referred to as "The World's Greatest Hobby," offers a fantastic avenue for learning, growth, and the creation of three-dimensional art. In his role as a host for the Model Railroad Academy, his aim is to inspire and unite fellow hobbyists.
Bonus Material
Printable Class Guide PDF
Download this Guide as a reminder of the key details you’ll see in the video instruction
Video: Meet Your Instructors
Download this short video to meet your class instructors, Doug Hodgdon and Mike Swiridow
Bonus Materials available for download after purchase.