News from your model shop - Modelling with paints and trees

Hello

This coming weekend ( Saturday 2nd and Sunday 3rd of November), the Wight Model Railway Group organises WightRail 2024. As usual, the exhibition takes place at Medina Leisure Centre in Newport (PO30 2DX). Lots of layouts from N gauge to O gauge.

More details from the Wight Model Railway Group website or from their Facebook page.

Don't forget to read our latest modelling tips and unboxing videos located at the bottom of the newsletter.

Most images in this newsletter are clickable for more details.

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Railway song of the week

"Train in Vain" by The Clash is an iconic track that captures the band's unique blend of punk energy and pop sensibility, offering something fresh yet grounded in raw emotion. Originally unlisted on their London Calling album when it was released in 1979, it was a surprise addition that swiftly became one of their most beloved songs. Despite its upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, the song's lyrics reveal a deeper, heart-wrenching story of betrayal and unrequited love, highlighting the band's knack for weaving genuine feeling into fast-paced, punchy punk. With its infectious beat and relatable theme, "Train in Vain" remains as relevant and resonant today as it was when first released.

At the time, The Clash was at the peak of their creative powers and "Train in Vain" stood out as a testament to their versatility. While the song sounds more pop than much of their usual work, it didn't compromise their punk edge. It showcases Mick Jones on lead vocals, with lyrics that reflect a personal story of a love gone wrong, adding an intimate layer to the band's sound. It's a reminder of a time when The Clash was not only challenging the musical landscape but also showing the world that punk could speak to the complexities of real life, heartbreak included. "Train in Vain" captures a powerful moment in British music history, marking The Clash as not just rebels but also master storytellers. Click on the picture to listen to the song.

When it comes to painting your models, having the right tools is essential. Mr Hobby offers a range of thinners to help you get the perfect consistency for your paints. The Mr Colour Thinner 110 is a high-quality product that's easy to mix with Mr Color paints. For those who prefer water-based paints, the Mr Aqueous Colour Thinner 110 is an excellent choice, containing alcohol for faster drying and improved adhesion. If you're looking for a thinner that improves coat leveling and increases shine, the Mr Colour Leveling Thinner 110 is perfect for use with spray applicators.



Before you start painting, it's crucial to prepare your models properly. Mr Hobby's range of primers and surfacers can help you achieve a smooth, even base for your paint. The Mr Primer Surfacer 1000 is excellent for filling minor imperfections and improving surface attachment on plastic, metal and resin parts. For an even finer finish, try the Mr Finishing Surfacer 1500, available in both black and gray. These products are perfect for creating a smooth base before painting and are especially useful when applying metallic paints.

Once you've got your models painted, it's time to bring your layout to life with some greenery. Woodland Scenics offers a fantastic range of trees to suit any season or setting. For a spring or early summer scene, consider the 0.75in.-1in Early Light pack of 8 trees or the larger 4in.-5in. Early Light pack of 3. If you're modelling an autumnal scene, the 1.25in.-3in. Harvest Blaze pack of 9 trees will add a beautiful splash of warm colours to your layout.

Don't forget to consider different seasons and landscapes when selecting your trees. For a winter wonderland, the 2 in.-3.5in. Snow Dusted pack of 5 trees is perfect. If you're modelling a scene near water, the 6in.-7in. Waters Edge pack of 2 trees will add authenticity to your riverbanks or lakeshores. And for a more dramatic autumnal display, the 3in.-5in. Harvest Blaze pack of 6 trees will create a stunning focal point on your layout.

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• Forgotten scales: exploring uncommon model railway gauges
• What is a roundhouse?

• What is ATP, as used on modern trains?
• What is the purpose of the leading wheels on a steam locomotive?
• Who are the model manufacturer ICM and what do they specialize in ?
• What is meant by the term 'Pre-shading' and where would I typically use it?
• How many types of glue do I need to do modelling?

You can access all the unboxing videos by visiting this page or simply click on the link called "videos" on our website.