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By now the terrain for your train layout has been formed out of Styrofoam, newspaper, and tape.
Study over what you have so far, to make sure it’s what you want. Compare it with the plan. Decide
where roads, buildings, and industries will be located. Glue down any loose Styrofoam pieces which
are not secure. Changes may still be made later, but it’s better to get it right at this stage.
It is helpful at this stage to cover the track with masking or duct tape. Landscaping is a messy job
and you will save yourself a major track cleaning chore later on if you cover the track.
The layout will really start to take shape with your next step - the plaster cloth. Plaster cloth
forms the final shape of the terrain. It provides the base for roads, buildings, trees - all the neat
scenery details that makes a layout a miniature world. Plaster cloth is basically cheesecloth which has been
impregnated with plaster. It is available in rolls, commonly 6 inches X 10 inches. The cloth may be laid either
dry or wet. Roll out the cloth over one edge of the layout, and cut to size. If laying dry, just
leave it in place and spray with water from a plant mister. While the cloth is still wet, smooth and
form the surface with your fingers. Overlap the next strip of cloth about 1/3 - 1/2 over the first
strip and repeat. Cover the entire layout with the cloth, working methodically. Smooth edges of the
cloth along the edge of the track roadbed. Do not cover the train track. Allow the plaster cloth to
dry. It will be hard in about half an hour. It sets up quite hard and is very durable.
If you want to lay the cloth wet you will need a flat pan, like a paint tray, to dip the cloth in
after it is cut. Lay newspaper down on the floor if you choose this option. You will have to work
quickly, because the cloth sets up fast.
Don’t remove the tape from the rails yet - some messy work is still ahead. The next column in this
series will cover rocks, roads, and filling in mistakes.
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