Great work Coaltrain .. and I really think that B&W photo looks real. Ya really have to look close to tell it's only a diorama. How long did it take you to build the entire scene?
I would have to say that, in my unbiased opinion, that this is some of the best modeling I have seen in a long time. There are those that rave about the "names" in our hobby but I think Jeff's work is right up there with the best. Following this project along to it's finalilty has been a lesson in perserverence and skill. You are to be commended Jeff on your fantastic rendition of coal mining in Appalchia during the 50's. That black and white shot just says it all! Cheers Bruce
Update? Hi Jeff, Took me awhile to find this thread,as it's been on my mind lately & just have to ask if you can provide us all with abit of an update on this fantastic layout of yours. It was really cool to watch how things progressed,I guess I miss seeing the layout come alive over time. Anyway,anything changed or improved?New buildings etc?
Jeff, phantastic work. And so fast. When do you sleep? :angel: Scenery, weathering are great! Wolfgang
I had a really bad day at work.... started to re--read this thread. Wow!! Not only did I forget about how well this area turned out, I feel alot better. Thanks for your great modelling and turning my mood around. What's next???????????????????????????????????
Very realistic workmanship Coaltrain! Give you a Hero Medal for it! I just thought of something I heard about while on vacation. A guy used 1/2" tape to make a 'conveyor' belt, then glued real coal on to one side. It was not thick, just enough to be shiny black. He mounted a small motor from a washing machine timer to run a belt pulley drum in the tipple house, and another free wheeling drum down at the end. He said you could see the coal moving up to the tower. He had frequent visitors and would be interesting to see how long it would take them to notice. Its an idea I had not thought of before. Gee, here I thought I knew it all! Ratz!
Bravo! You have single-handedly motivated all of us here to start our very own personal project. I commend you for not only your expertise, but also for the kind-heartedness to show pics and details of your progress. You are truly a modeler's modeler.