1:35 Ruined hauptampt

What kind of accessory this is

The ruin of a building intended for a diorama in 1:35 scale. A demolished structure is a rewarding feature in a scene: it gives the tableau a background, closes it off on one side and above all sets the scale, because from the height of the openings and the masonry the viewer immediately judges the size of a figure or a vehicle standing in front of it.

Placement in the scene

A ruin should usually not be the main theme but the frame. It pays to set it at the rear or side edge of the base in such a way that it leaves a clear view of what is happening in the scene and that at least one interesting shadow arises. Demolished masonry readily takes being interfered with: a hole left by a hit, a broken-out corner or fallen plaster will benefit a scene and at the same time make it possible to follow on with rubble scattered over the ground. Do not leave the transition between the structure and the base sharp, or the building will come across as though it were merely standing on the diorama.

Building and painting tips

Cut excess material and traces of manufacture away with a sharp blade a little from the part and sand the surface down. Before painting, wash the surface, degrease it and apply a primer. With masonry, the procedure from dark to light proves itself: a darker undercoat layer and, once it is dry, a dry brush with a lighter tone that draws out the edges of the bricks and the coarseness of the plaster. Differentiate the plaster and the exposed masonry by shade, and deepen the joints and the corners with a thin wash. Dust, fallen mortar and traces of running water are added at the end by pigments.

Who it is for

For builders of dioramas and vignettes in 1:35 scale who want to set a scene among buildings. Figures, equipment, a base, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.