Scenic scatter

2004-2-11

Putting the 'finishing touches' to many models usually involves some form of scenic scatter material. Everything from the bases of wargames figures to the tables themselves, even whole model railway layouts can benefit by using some kind of ground cover. All types of scenic scatter material need to be glued to the model base or layout using PVA or scenic cement.






On the right are two materials that are readilly available as commercial products : 'flock' and graded granite chippings. Flock is simply dyed sawdust, available in a wide selection of colours to represent open grassland around the seasons. Granite chippings make the perfect hardcore for railways and sidings or more coarse scatter for miniature bases.






To the left another commerical product is 'static grass', a short fibre material that stands up because of static electricity when applied to bases and gently brushed before the glue dries.

The other alternative is sand. Yes, common sea-side sand - free to pick up and blend different grain sizes, as illustrated : fine wind blown grains from the carpark with coarser, low tide gravel. An empty ice cream tub will be more than ample to last for ages.


Note: collected natural sand should be washed to remove any salt film, bug remains etc. that may react with the glue. Placed in a thick cloth tied with string it can easily be run under a tap.