T34 engine trouble #15

The base – Part 3.

The wall and road areas were grouted over a few evenings. Each part had to be grouted twice, as the original mix shrunk a lot when dry. The grout mix was spackle, thinned white glue and a little washing-up liquid to help with surface tension. An artist’s oils-knife was used to first mix and then place the grout, and to work it into the crevices between the cork bricks.
Before completely drying, a dampened sponge was used to wipe away any excess grout, and also to ensure that there was definition between the cork stones. This also helps tighten the grout into the seams in the cork.

When dry, the walls were painted with Mr. Surfacer 500, diluted with acetone. This makes it easier to see the finished surface, and any rough bits can be cut off with a sharp knife and/or sanded. It also primes the base ready for painting. Cork and spackle tend to suck in paint, so this step has so many advantages, it is really worthwhile doing.

At this point I’m caught in two minds … do I add all the debris now and paint, or do I paint and add debris afterwards? I’ll probably go with the later, as it will make painting easier.

Again, the T34 and both figures are placed to get an idea of what space is available, and where the debris will be spread. The damaged barrel is from Reality in Scale and the damaged jerry cans are from MIG Productions, as are both figures. At last the end is in sight of this project. The goal is to get it finished for IPMS Sweden in mid March.