Have you been looking for something that is relatively cheap and simple to make your roofs out of? Here is a little hint. Check your bathroom. If you have a his-and-hers then the answer is most likely in the his bathroom. Surprise! It is cheap toilet paper. With the single ply stuff you can easily create shingles for next to nothing. Just cut the toilet paper into 1/2" strips and use these to make your sections of shingles. Paint each layer as you glue them in place and soon you will have a cheap and easy roof! When you finish one side, just do the same for the other. When you reach the top, you will need to cut a strip to use as a cap strip. Once the roof dries completely, you will just have to cut away the overhang with a hobby knife and you will be in business.
Smoke Effects For Coal Engines
Have you though about using smoke build up as a way of weathering your coal burner's display? One very easy way to do this is with copying machine toner. This toner is usually in a powder form and if properly blown into place can make any surface it comes in contact with look like it has been exposed to coal dust for years. If you have issues with it not sticking in place then a very light coating of white glue before you apply the toner will take care of that.
Masking Tape Window Shades
Masking tape can make a perfect window shade. It is very easy to handle and requires no glue at all.
Super Easy Paint Removal
Have you ever been working with a part you had painted earlier and noticed that the styrene glue you are using takes the paint right off? Sometimes this can be a huge advantage. If you happen to be spray painting your display and you get overspray on parts that were not meant to get it then you can easily remove this. Take a bit of glue and brush it onto the joint that has paint on it. Let it set for about twenty seconds and then add a bit more glue. Take a hobby knife and now carefully scrape away the soft paint. This should take off most of the paint. If any is left over, just repeat the process and get the last bit off.
All it takes is just a little bit of work to make a big bit of difference. After you have been building models for some time, you will begin to come up with your own tips, tricks and shortcuts that can make a whole world of difference. Good luck and have fun!
