The Desert Mine was an experiment in using FRocks to create rock scenery. FRocks are Foam Rubber rocks created by tearing and scoring seat cushion type foam. Once you have created the strata, a thin coat of light weight patching plaster is brushed over the foam to provide a painting surface. Thin washes of acrylic paints are used to color the rock. This mini-layout is approximately 32" in diameter using 3/16” foam core board as a base. Sheets of "pink" foam were added to create height, and then the foam rubber rocks added around the diorama. A simple loop of track "rounds" everything out. Buildings are all scratch built. The Saguaro cacti were another experiment using cheap modeling clay to build the plant. I even paid homage to the Roadrunner Cartoons (see last picture). This layout is now “retired”. Double Click on any image for a larger view.
DESERT MINE (1:48 scale)
