1:35 Forklift

The real subject

A forklift is a machine that gets everywhere material is transferred: into warehouses and workshops, onto a loading yard, into a port and onto an airfield apron. Its distinguishing marks are the vertical lifting mast at the front, the counterweight over the rear axle and a short wheelbase, thanks to which the truck turns almost on the spot. That is exactly why it is rewarding in a scene even when it stands away from the main action.

What it is good for in a scene

In 1:35 scale this is an accessory that gives a diorama a reason to exist. A forklift at a loading dock with pallets explains why the figures are standing just there and fills an otherwise empty background with meaningful activity. It is well completed by crates, barrels and pallets, around which the traces of operation can be spread out: tire prints, spilled cargo, oil stains. The lifting mast also gives a scene a vertical line, of which there is otherwise little in a diorama.

Building and painting tips

Cut the excess material and the traces of manufacture off with a sharp blade a little way from the part and sand the surface. Before painting, wash the surface, degrease it and apply a primer. A working machine will take marked wear: scuffed paint on the edges of the mast, a chipped counterweight, dust on the underside and a deposit on the forks. Warning yellow or orange areas come out best over a light base coat, the other shades over a dark one. Do the cab glazing and the lights only after the paint has dried.

Who it is for

For builders of dioramas and vignettes in 1:35 scale who want to get civilian or support equipment into a scene. Paints, glue, figures and the base are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.