St. Louis RPM Post Mortem

Two weekends ago was St. Louis RPM held in Collinsville, IL. Featuring over 80 exhibit tables of exquisitely crafted models made by participants, about has much of space allocated to vendors and 10 clinics, it was both a small and a big event. Small because it doesn’t compare to your typical large train show and large, because it is quite something to see so many people interested in prototype modelling gathering together in such a place. With more than 900 visitors, it was just the right size to see a lot, yet create that nice small event ambiance where you can take time to meet and talk to people.

Only a fraction of what was on display

Among the vendors, 3D printing was as expected, becoming quite a trend. It was interesting to see the models and how some companies are pushing the limits with what could be considered hobby grade printers. The technology is certainly evolving quite fast and this is opening doors for more prototypes to find their way on our layouts and workbenches. I lucky enough to get a free 3D Central 50ft boxcar printed by Matt Hermann and am looking forward to putting it together.

These silos and elevator equipments really make a difference

Another fascinating aspect of this 3D printing mania was the number of businesses offering prototypically correct grain bins, silos, conveyors and other accessories. Not so long ago, you had only a few Walthers and Rix items, most of them relatively coarse in details, to replicate elevators. Now, you can find everything that can be seen in the real world.

Scott Thornton's clinic pushed the envelope.

I also had the great pleasure to present my clinic about extreme weathering on Saturday. Most clinics I attended where well put together and interesting. Clark Propst made us laugh with his cheap $1 toy train kitbashing projects, Scott Thorton proposed a series of interesting novel ways to model mundane things like asphalt or corn fields and I recall that presentation from a gentleman going through his process of modelling a slice of Appalachia in N scale.

St. Louis station is almost a roman cathedral!

In terms of purchases, I kept it simple since I have more than enough at home. That said, I got a few old diesel detailing parts that are useful for kitbashing projects. However, the biggest purchase was a Loksound Bowser equipped Green Bay & Western red Alco C430 that I got for a fair price. I always loved how C430 just look like a slightly more brutish version of their little brothers C424 and C425. I kind of like its appearance and since I'm currently modelling a few American models right now, it was neat to discover WNYP did had red C430s at some point. I'm currently musing over altering the GBW scheme to match the ex-Morristown & Erie one, which is quite close. That would make a second WNYP locomotive on my roster to serve the switching layout.

French Canadian 18th century house in Missouri

It was certainly a long drive through Northeastern and Appalachia to get to this RPM, but the people's warmth and ambiance was well worth the effort. It was also an excellent excuse to visit many different states and cities along the way, discovering for the first time areas I’ve heard of and seen modelled for decades.

This could have been on Tom Johnson's layout

It was also weird to aimlessly drive on some roads only to discover I knew most town names and could make a detour to some local railroading spots I once mused over. I ended up discovering the area around Gauley, WV, the Erie line near Corry, PA, or even Maitland Junction in Springfield, OH. Isn't it fascinating to be in foreign lands and yet, feel you have known exact places as if it was your backyard! I also took a few pictures of covered hoppers and grain elevators, having the pleasure to discover these towns so well modelled by Tom Johnson.

Even when you leave, inspiration pop up in your rear mirror...

Once again, a big thanks to Scott Thornton and Lonnie for inviting me. You were the most gracious hosts I could have hoped to meet!

Hindsight 20/20 Virtual RPM 16.0 on December 2nd

Once again, I'm pleased to announce my participation to Hindsight 20/20 Virtual RPM as an invited clinician. It's always an honor to answer to Hunter Hughson's call of duty and prepare some material to share with others.

This time, instead of focusing on a specific modelling subject, I will present Hedley-Junction: Finding Yourself Through Modelling. We will visit a layout I've been building for over 17 years with two good friends and based on our shared memories of ex-CN Murray Bay Subdivision in Charlevoix, QC. It will focus mainly on the process and struggles that led to the current success after years of confusion and what can be achieved when you finally find your groove. Big dreams come in a variety of sizes and it's important to openly discover what fits yourself.

As always, registration is free on Speedwitch Media's webpage and a fine array of respected modellers will be sharing their research and recent work.

Railway Modellers Meet of B.C. 2023 Reminder

Just to remind you that tomorrow evening, I'll be presenting a virtual clinic about modelling the Pre-CNR era at Railway Modellers Meet of B.C. 2023. Registration is mandatory but free here.

You can find the schedule for the entire Virtual Prologue event here. My clinic will be hosted between 19:05 and 19:50 PST (Pacific Standard Time), or 22:05 and 22:50 EST (Eastern Standard Time).

It has been a really fun clinic to prepare and lots of new cars have been painted for you to enjoy!

RMMBC 2023: Modelling Pre-Nationalization Railways in Canada? Can Do!

For a second year, the good folks at Railway Modellers’ Meet of British Columbia (RMMBC) have invited me to present a virtual clinic at their 2023 event in later this spring. It’s always a pleasure to share ideas with fellow Canadians living on the West coast and thus, I had no reason to refuse their kind invitation.

GTR 2215 sitting idle at Stanstead Station, circa 1914

I’ve been torn apart about what to present, but after a few discussions, I became clear my work on the Stanstead diorama would make a lot of sense. Over the last few months, I’ve sensed a lot of interest in smaller subjects to model and it seems there is a lot of latent desire to model pre-nationalization railways in Canada.

The clinic will explain how this small rural diorama slowly made its way in my mind, the challenges of modelling pre-1918 Canadian railways, kitbashing and printing decent models using easily readily available data and finding efficient ways of building a layout. This project wasn’t about getting everything 100% right, but rather about proving you can do a lot if you are ready to leave being you the RTR approach.

The clinic will be held on May 4^th at 7:05 PM Pacific Time on Zoom. For more information and access links, please visit RMMBC 2023 page. To be noted, good friend Chris Van der Heide will present his excellent work on creating prototypically accurate wrapped lumber loads for freight cars. Having experimented myself with his technique, I can say it is an essential one for modellers interesting in Canadian railways in the modern era.

See you soon!

 

 

2023 Binbrook RPM Post-Mortem

What we call the Binbrook RPM is an unofficial event hoster by fellow modeller Hunter Hughson in early February and surrounding his anniversary. Nothing fancy, but simply a wholesome gathering of like-minded souls. This year was particularly specially because it was the first meet after a 3 year hiatus due to the pandemic. Fortunately, almost everybody was able to find some time in there schedule and people gathered from all corners of the country with some special guest from far away in the United States.

I would have loved to travel by rail, but this year, the unforgiving VIA Rail schedules made it almost impossible. On Saturday morning, with Will Lawrence and Chris Mears, we visited a few hobby shops around Hamilton, including Otter Valley Railroad, Paris Junction Hobbies and Dundas Valley Hobby. The amount of time spent on the road was a testament to the fact hobby shops are now a few and afar. I dubbed that journey the Great Southern Ontario tour has it was as much as I can tell a disguised visit of hundreds of acres of farmland. While visiting these shops, one thing struck me quite a bit: I had nothing to purchase. Some could say I could have purchased supplies, but I didn't know what I really needed. With my approach to the hobby shifting more and more toward customization over acquired brand new locomotives, I've come to the point I'm no longer a good customer for a traditional shop. The same happened at the Springfield show too.

Later in the afternoon, we gathered at Hunter's place for the RPM. In the previous event, it was much more formal, but this time, people just chatted over models and dinner before we really committed to discussing modelling. I suspect the need for social interaction was probably was most of us needed. I won't name everybody that partake in the event since I will certainly forget a few names and I apologize in advance.

Hunter started by presenting us the two Athearn Ford trucks he modified for Penn Central and Conrail (?). These were the subject of a recent article in RMC and it was great to see them in real. What makes these models interesting is the simplicity of what was done to improve them greatly. By simplicity, I don't mean it's easy, but that the process is elegant and not convoluted. It's something that is achievable for most and which deliver great results.

Chris van der Heide presented a few Algoma Central drop bottom ore gondolas he has designed and 3D printed. Many dozens are currently printing. He explained to us how he was able to design a single part body that could be altered to represent various modifications done to them over the years, including different extensions. His models were both accurate, well printed and easy to assemble. Lots of thoughts have been poured in their design and it shows. Can't wait to see them painted!

Hunter's neighbor, a modeller who specialize in freight car weathering presented a few examples. While he use many different techniques, he wanted to explore more using only acrylics to streamline the process. He also shown us how silver color Sharpie pens can be extremely useful to replicate peeling paint on galvanized steel. Light weathering and dullcote gives the ink a realistic look that blends together well with the car.

Will Lawrence presented several models, but his work on a RSC-14 and a Cap Breton RS-18 were the most fascinating ones. Will still continue to convert Atlas RS11 in various MLW products. As he stated, the drive is excellent and they are easy to rework. He also does the same with Proto 1000 RS-10 and RS-18. According to him, the notorious height discrepancies are barely noticeable and if you don't mix them with Atlas locomotives, you will never notice it. He loves the drive and the detail quality, thus can overlook the inaccuracies. I do agree with that statement. 

Robin shown us is current effort at replicating a SW1200RS both in S scale and in O scale using an Athearn drive. He also use 3D printing to build these models and experiment a lot with part design. We only saw his work in progress, but it's quite promising... I also tried to convince him to model Chemin de fer Lanaudière in S or O scale. He's after all another fan of Quebec small branchlines.

Chris Mears, once again, decided to surprise us with something most people wouldn't do. He shown us two scenery and track mockups he made recently. As always, his obsession with colors, textures and space makes it a fascinating exploration. Basically, he's trying to figure out how to model a small layout that can be displayed in a book shelf. Using 1/2" thick foam, napkins and various ballast, tile grout, static grass and jute rope, he's developing a technique to create scenery without having to wait for material to dry. No clay, no plaster, no fillers, just the good stuff. It may sounds cheap, but the results speak for themselves and it's probably the most amazing grassy track I've ever seen. He also presented us his friend James Hilton's book, which he helped to edit and contributed some material. Having discussed with James in the past, I can confidently say it's one of the sharpest minds I've encountered in this hobby.

Finally, I think it's Ryan Mendell that summed up the meet with the most accurate remark. He mentioned that since 3 years, most people had changed their approach to weathering. We no longer care about "accurate" freshly painted colors and start weathering before applying decals. Are we witnessing the influence of armour modellers? Most probably.

Pierre Oliver's layout shows that a lot can be achieve with simple means

On day 2, the gang moved to Pierre Oliver's house in St. Thomas to have an operating session on his excellent Southern Pacific Clovis Branch between Fresno and Bryant circa 1951. This is a huge basement layout, yet depicting a very mundane and small prototype. Design is by Trevor Marshall and it has, to some extent, a similar modus operandi than Port Rowan did. Pierre is a car builder and likes operation, thus the layout has a very simple level of scenery. However, since southern California is quite arid, it fits well and what is there is good enough to immerse visitors into the site.

Pierre's layout is an exercise in simplicity

The layout is also commendable for having almost every single piece of track that existed on the prototype. No compromise, except the staging yard. Thus, when you operate, you get the full experience. It's also a fantastic prototype because it served the citrus and wine industries. So all these cool PFE reefers and wine tank cars are at home!

Wine tank cars in their prototypical context are a delight

While the track plan is simple, operations can be tricky due to a few moves that are required to perform the tasks. It's an interesting balance, because it's not a switching puzzle, though you have to think wisely before moving. I ran the local freight with Will Lawrence and it took us almost 3 hours to finish the job. At the end of the day, I felt like I worked on the real railroad. I think it convinced me to keep thing much simpler on my own home layout. That said, I think the Clovis branch is a good example of a layout designed for many operators, but that can work most of the time for a solo operator. Also, it's sheer simplicity makes it possible to build a very, very large layout and yet be able to scenic everything in a short time span. Pierre mentioned it took him about 1 years and a half to get everything up and running with a first pass of scenery. I don't know a lot of layouts that can boast that.

After a long day of work, it's time to go back to the roundhouse

Finally, we had a nice dinner at Pierre's which concluded a nice and relaxing weekend. On the morning, I rode Go Transit from Hamilton to Toronto as an enjoyable way to take my flight at Billy Bishop Airport. Once again, I'm reminded by the generosity and hospitality of my hosts which can hardly be described in words. In current years, that genuine display of warmth is worth much more than anything.

Railroad Hobby Show, West Springfield, MA

For those interested and that may attend, just to let you that I'll pay a visit to the Railroad Hobby Show in West Spingfield, MA this weekend.

Feel free to talk to me if you recognize me which may be quite unlikely!

2022 Railway Modellers Meet of British Columbia

I'm glad to announce I'll be virtually participating to the 2022 Railway Modellers Meet of British Columbia (RMMBC 22). I want to thank John Geddes for is kind invitation and the incredibly professional approach of his team.

This year, RMMBC will host an hybrid real life and virtual event which will be a neat experience. Among the virtual clinicians, you'll find many respected modellers such as Marty McGuirk, Max Magliaro, Marc Simpson, Greg Amer, Rene Gourley, Geoff Bunza and many others. In fact, I'm a little bit humbled to be included in this group!

My clinic will be a condensed and revised version of my British-American Oil tank car fleet presented at Hindsight 20/20 earlier this year. Knowing how B/A is still a popular modelling subject in Western Canada, it will be a pleasure to present my work there.

More information can be found on RMMBC website.

Hindsight 20/20 Virtual RPM 13.0

On April 16th, 2022, Hindsight 20/20 is back with new clinics. A cursory glance at the lineup reveals excellent modellers will once again grace us with their exquisite work. 

As always, registration can be done online at Speedwitchmedia.com.

Be aware that I will be also presenting a clinic at this RPM which will conclude my exploration of British-American Oil Tank Car Fleet. Some modelling ideas, a critical assessment of my own work and good news about the possibility of modelling correct Standard Tank Company cars.

Yes, I can be quite critical of my own work!

Hindsight 20/20 12.0 - Modelling British-American Tank Cars

 I'm glad to announce I'll be presenting a new clinic documenting my effort at modelling British-American tank cars in HO Scale during Hindsight 20/20 Virtual RPM tomorrow. You can register here.

British-American tank cars draw a lot of attention and can be considered crowd pleasers among  modellers and collectors. They were indeed a classic 1940s-1950s sight and many manufacturers offer more or less "accurate" models that doesn't cut it for most of us.

The subject is vast and two different clinics will be required to delve with some depth into this subject. For this Saturday, I will focus on analyzing the historic B-A fleet, documenting its characteristics and paint scheme evolution. These information will come handy to do a comparative study between the prototypes and the suitable available models.

Hope this will catch your fancy!

Variations on British-American Oil Tank Cars - Part 3

Over the last two weeks, I've been working on a future series of virtual clinics about a pragmatic approach to modelling British-American Oil tank car fleet. While my previous attempts were semi-serious, in the sense that a few cars were stand-ins or good enough, I'm now exploring more prototypical options and I've come to understand from a few Facebook posts on modelling forums that the B-A cars have a special place in the heart of most Canadian railway modellers.

I've often seen people in the past - and that includes myself - finding a close enough car, slapping decals on it and calling it a day. While I see absolutely no issue doing that, I was curious how one could be more prototypical in its approach using on the shelf and easily available plastic models. I'm generally not a big tank car guy, so it was great to really take some time to look up at what's now available on the market, both new and used. Surprisingly, there is a lot of choice and fortunately, quite enough to be able to replicate most B-A cars.

Preparing theses two clinics took a lot of time, probably well over 100 hours. Using Ian Cranstone's ORER compilations and several historical photographs, I attempted to crunch the data and better understand the fleet. Then, I compared every pictures and group of cars with models, trying to figure out which one were the best for each series of tank cars. Once done, kitbashing or detailing notes were written and an accuracy score was attributed to the finish model, from accurate to stand-in or close enough. When data was sparse or unreliable, it was noted. I also refined Ian's car grouping to better reflect variations within certain groups. Indeed, I found out some series had insulated and non-insulated cars of different design.

Excerpt from the clinic

A tentative visual analysis of British-American Oil paint scheme design was also made. I say tentative because I didn't have access to any data about specific dates when some designs were implemented. However, builder pictures and freshly repainted cars helped to create a timeline which I hope more knowledgeable people will built upon.

Finally, the second clinic deals with real models I built, observations on my mistakes, hints to make them better and a few suggestions for future kitbashes. I've also acquired a few more tank cars and decals to try my own ideas before presenting them. I hope to build a few of them in January and February.

Excerpt from the clinic

After the clinics, research material will be made available, including an Excel spreadsheet with each prototype and its closest model and alterations required to make it more prototypical.

Meanwhile, most of Hedley Junction and Monk Subdivision projects are on hold due to the current lockdown. However, I'm working on another structure project that will complement VIA Drummondville station I modelled last summer, experimenting with brick painting and canadianizing American-style downtown structures.

Hindsight 20/20 11.0 - December 4th 2021

 Hindsight 20/20 virtual RPM is back again just before Christmas. On December 4th, 2021, many talented modellers will share their skills and passion with us. Don't forget to register in advance at www.speedwitchmedia.com.

Interestingly enough, the meet will start with two clinics dedicated to the two largest modern passenger services in North America; Amtrak and VIA. These subjects are rarely documented in the press or in clinics and it's great to see Hindsight taking an active interest in providing such content!

By the way, another article about Monk Subdivision will soon be published, this time exploring staging and train operations.

Hindsight 20/20 8.0 is there!

Time flies fast and Hindsight 20/20 is now back again for an 8th version. Once again, a lot of great modellers will share their work which is always a good occasion to pick up some inspiration for your own project.

Of interest to me because we share a common profession - architect - is the presence of Jonathan Jones from New York who is modelling a slice of CNJ. He has a very interesting approach to modelling and framing a subject than is unusual but extremely relevant. I wouldn't be surprised it could inspire a few people out there.

As always, you can register at https://speedwitchmedia.com/.

I'm also pleased to announce a few "new" projects for the blog, including a few articles about weathering centerbeam flatcars in military modelling fashion and probably a series about replicating the famous brick station in Drummondville, QC for Groupe TRAQ's exhibition layout in Charny.

Hindsight 20/20 5.0 – Virtual Railway Prototype Modellers Meet

Hindsight 20/20 Virtual RPM is back on schedule again. On Saturday, December 5th. As always, it is an interesting event to participate and a great source of motivation and inspiration.

I'll by back as a clinician to cover the second and last part dedicated to Modelling with Paper. Subjects covered will include asbestos shingles and corrugated sheets, heavy duty hybrid building cores and rolling stock.

Don't forget to register in advance at speedwitchmedia.com. As always, the event is free but donations are accepted to help it to grow.

Hindsight 20/20 Version 4.0

Then next Hindsight 20/20 Virtual RPM Version 4.0 is now just around the corner. For these not familiar with the event, it is a virtual meet that was created a few months ago to replace traditional railway modelling events that were cancelled due to the current situation. Since then, the event seems to have evolved beyond a temporary measure and taken a life of itself. The lineup is always impressive and feature well-established modellers with a wealth of experience in the hobby.

The next event is scheduled on October 24th, 2020 and has always, you must register yourself at speedwitchmedia.com to attend. Registration is free but donations to keep the event running are welcomed. I'm also pleased to announce I'll be presenting a clinic on scratchbuilding structures out of paper and cardboard. This is an art I've been pursuing since my highs chool days, first out of necessity, later by rediscovering the incredible versatility of these  readily available materials. This clinic was triggered by Marty McGuirk's own presented on the second Hindsight 20/20. I'll pick up the ball where he left it and try to answer many questions then.

As a model railroader, this will be my first "official" clinic in a model railroading event. I'm generally not attending these due to their virtual absence in the province of Quebec, because I'm not the social type and due to the language barrier However, I've been giving lectures on various subjects over the last 2 decades, so I see it as a continuity of my regular activities.