Scratch Building a Movie Studio for the Model Railroad | Boomer Diorama # 229

I revised an old scratch-built warehouse building into a Movie Studio Sound Stage. It was in the initial plan and I finally got her done. The first two building's on section one are finally finished. One step forward , two steps back is the nature of building a model railroad.
KZbin Audio Library Music
DISCLAIMER: I pay for all the products and materials I use in this video content, unless otherwise stated. I do not receive any affiliate sponsorship, fees, funds, support, or gifts from company products, and/or any other companies, (unless otherwise stated). I only endorse products for the benefit of the community and my own personal use, apart from indicated sponsors.

[@doubtsalmon]

Absolutely delightful! Former industry guy myself (art depts, model making, carpenter, prop tart, theater, and on and on). With advancing age and the onset of disability issues, model making (just for me, in my own time) is what's keeping me going. And after a lifetime since leaving it behind, I'm currently rediscovering my love for model railroading. Your channel, and your work, is outstanding.

[@boomerdiorama]

Nice to hear from a "Brother in Arms" ;-). Now you know my philosophy when approaching this medium with such a background. 😉Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@marklewis298]

A magical, build...with a piece of you in it!!! Awesome......

[@boomerdiorama]

Onto the next scene. ;-)

[@ShawnRiverman-sw9qf]

I’ve always been wholeheartedly impressed by all your tips, tricks and builds. The movie camera is on another level!! Truly look forward to your videos every week, thanks again for your efforts to share your talents with us.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks for sharing you inspiration as well! Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@michaelricks1618]

Fascinating thoughts and stunning model making. Thanks so much for sharing

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@wilzdart]

Confidence in scratch building is the key. Most of what you build with are simple tools armed with photos of the subject for the build. This build is something you were part of to tell the story. I am amazed by the camera build , I have been following you since 2013 and what I have learned is off the charts. Thanks so much for sharing your knowledge.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you for supporting the channel the way you do! Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@steveedwards9957]

Brilliant, your narrative and back story through this one, the reefer project and the widow are as inspiring as the way you educate me. Thank you. After your amazing moose and eagle build, is it time to scratch Dusty? Welcoming 'your lady' at the door, what a fitting addition to your sound stage reflections 😊

[@boomerdiorama]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@luvindemtrains]

Really great work. The camera, wow! My favorite line at 17:57, "Why would I do that? I don't know, because I feel like it". Your subtle comedic side totally adds to your presentations.

[@boomerdiorama]

I must confess that I paint like that all the time. Sometimes I think it is undisciplined but oh well ;-)

[@luvindemtrains]

It works so well for you why change@@boomerdiorama

[@mowsefmow8177]

the interior lighting and all of the care you've put into the weathering really bring this piece to life. thanks for sharing

[@boomerdiorama]

😁👍

[@robynebeaschaerf1381]

Would one really setup a movie studio besides an operating rail line??? Just thinking about the noise/ vibration and related impact on sound related studio operation. .....? That boom camera looks amazing, you are beyond me....

[@boomerdiorama]

Movie Studios can be found in the strangest places. I worked in many, including one on the North Shore in Vancouver right beside an active shipyard and a busy Street. This is why they sound proof them. 😁

[@derz-crackmodellbahnvideosinsp]

STOPED my own sunday afternoon Z-scale oilpaint weathering for your modeling upload "LOFT STUDIOS." ..."✌️👌"...CHEERS and happy modeling, Olli

[@boomerdiorama]

All right! "Z" - Scale. Sounds awesome. Cheers.😁

[@ScottTaipaleRail]

Dusty you brought back a memory. When I was in high school I ran the milk parlor on a dairy farm. One of the barn cats used to live on my shoulder while I was milking the cows. I forget her name.

[@boomerdiorama]

That is cool when they get comfortable there. ;-)

[@canoeingnav7618]

Wow Boomer, that is so cool. Again I picked up a few tricks. Thank you. Oh yes, I love how Dusty is incorporated into your videos and seems to have embraced your layout. My two haven't worked up the courage to investigate that closely yet.

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes indeed. Dusty loves the layout. 😸

[@thomasdecker7631]

Nice. A celebration of career is something that is in the future for my own layout. The ability to tell the story in the small space you utilized is impressive. Question: What materials will GAC 500 not adhere to? (thinking of making molds/patterns for 1/87 auto and truck windows) "Why would I do that? I don't know, because I feel like it" should become one opf the philosophies of the hobby.

[@boomerdiorama]

I would try delrin plastic like the lid of a Yogurt or Margarine tub. I find I can peel it off easily. Although acrylic is pretty grippy stuff.

[@gusshadleythelunaticfromar7125]

A Very Talented Man. You Should Have The Audio soundtrack running On The Sound Stage To Add A effect. You Add Another Dimension .

[@boomerdiorama]

Endless options for sure. Cheers!

[@sammym.belfastchild]

Now that was a lesson in " One step back " wow Boomer what build ,loved the star wars set. thank you for all that you bring to us .. cheers to you and Dusty

[@boomerdiorama]

Glad you enjoyed it. I am on a mission to complete the buildings on section one so I can move forward. Big surprise coming as well soon. ;-) Cheers.

[@georgewood463]

WOW! once again you blow me away with your work and teaching. Thank you.

[@boomerdiorama]

You are so welcome!

[@cncpgreatlakesdiv4896]

awesome thanks for sharing you do great work .😊😊👍👍

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@cncpgreatlakesdiv4896]

that camera was awesome🎥🎥🎥🎞🎞📽📽📽📽🎬🎬🎬

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you!

[@undersee604]

Brings back memories working on the movie Max Q, I still have a copy of that Shuttle we worked on in 1/20 scale. Dan

[@boomerdiorama]

Awesome!

[@Yeoman7]

LOL, that camera is cool as Hell.😃

[@boomerdiorama]

I sort of got into it . . . lol. Cheers.

[@narrowgaugegreg]

...and just like that video gamer terminology finds it's was into Boomer's linguistic arsenal.

[@boomerdiorama]

Cheers! ~ Boomer.

[@JostNKase]

Thanx for replying Mr. Boomer I saw your finished work and it looks absolutely great. Amazing detail.

[@boomerdiorama]

Any time!

[@brianconway4275]

Great build Boomer!!! I had to chuckle at the boom camera segment when you said "I was going to swivel the sixth axis but....." Now you're just showin off!! 😉

[@boomerdiorama]

Boom!

[@ronaldjoyce7374]

HOLY COW, OH MY LORD!!! What can I say… In my 72 years I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone do what you do, or that I can remember. What’s next? I can hardly wait. Unbelievable and that boom camera (sorry if I’m calling it in a wrong way) is totally an amazing build, again, great job!!!

[@boomerdiorama]

"Boom Camera: is fine. 😉~ Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@charlie1872]

Great scene. How did you make the Lettering?

[@boomerdiorama]

They are from plastic. They came like that. Can't remember where - Britain I think.

[@ainsleyperry5192]

Boomer, This studio is quiet famous because they filmed some of the "Oppenheimer" movie there. Now, as you can see the next "Star Wars" instalement is also being filmed there. Is that an "IMax" camera? Cheers, Chris Perry.

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes. IMAX Camera ;-)

[@HarryBHouchins]

Brilliant work! And, I'll build a Photo Studio & Gallery (life experience). Modeled on your ideas. Thank you!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you!

[@robertdaigle7021]

Always a pleasure to watch your videos…you always seem to be thinking “outside the box” of traditional model railroading…that is such a relief from the monthly “ do it this way” because “we” know better…I’ve dropped my subscription to those magazines… Thank you again for your inspiration… Randy

[@boomerdiorama]

I was never pre-conditioned by mainstream model railroading. I read the magazines as well. John Allen inspired me because he understood the artistic side of the hobby. Malcolm Furlow was another one who comes to mind. I mostly built military dioramas as a kid and then married the two concepts and it just comes out this way. I also prefer the smaller layout as large layouts stress me out. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@CharlieH65]

Yet another great tutorial Boomer, thank you! Somewhat off-topic, but you mentioned that CA for styrene & wood is a great bonding agent. What should be used for bonding nickel silver rail to styrene ties? I'm building/kit bashing a Walthers cornerstone bridge kit. Thanks again for all the information you disclose to us in the modeling world!

[@boomerdiorama]

I use a spot of CA and then pre-drill a hole, and spike every fifth rail. If you wick-in thin matte medium over the others it will bond the rail as well.

[@ronaldvanpinxteren3644]

Wowmyou did it again. Looks magnificent. What kind of material do you use for the electrical wires. Cheers Ronald

[@boomerdiorama]

I use melted styrene sprue for the electrical wires. I melt it with a BIC lighter and stretch it out until it cools. ;-)

[@JostNKase]

Yea I did see in the end..Your Camera set up is killing me. When I saw it I almost fell out of my chair I'd kill to have that for [my location set] I would also love to get a couple "StarWagons" for wardrobe and hair. You've given me so much more to think about...Thank you 😊

[@boomerdiorama]

Sounds awesome. Have fun!

[@donwhead]

As always, your videos are a joy to watch. The Star Wars theme was a great choice, and you executed the entire build beautifully. Thanks for sharing, look forward to whatever comes next. =)

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you very much!

[@JostNKase]

Hello there, this is fantastic as I'm building my Diorama with a "Production" in progress. Once I get it all done I'll share it with you. I see your "on the lot" mine is a "location" shoot. Awesome to see another into the world of Motion Picture Production. Good luck 👍

[@boomerdiorama]

I was in the industry for several decades but I am retired from it now. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@michaelimpey1407]

Boomer, great build, and wow, that detail in the camera, that is next level. It is good to include some of your personal history in your layout, parts from former lives, that bring back memories. I got hold of some of the Golden Wetting Agent, and it has really improved my wet on wet painting - thank you for that tip, I would recommend it to anyone wanting to do wet on wet. Thank you for sharing, and cheers, and stay safe, Michael

[@boomerdiorama]

The wetting agent is a must have for wet-on-wet acrylic painting. It's a game changer for acrylic filters and washes. It also goes a long ways if you learn to use it judiciously. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@OtterCreek]

Quiet on the set!! In 5...4...3...2.. The 153 rolls by and gives two blasts of the air horn!! Yet another beautiful scene and proof there is no off position to the Boomer inspiration switch!

[@boomerdiorama]

Normally the Studio Door would be closed with the "flashing" red light. Cheers Dennis. ;-)

[@OtterCreek]

@@boomerdiorama Right, I could also see a scene with the Director (complete with beret) arguing with the train crew pointing at the flashing red light! LOL.

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . especially at 2,500.00 a minute for the camera. 🤣@@OtterCreek

[@andysfishingandflytyingcha2310]

Looks amazing Boomer! I bet they have trouble getting "quiet on set" when the locos trundle past with a few clanking wagons! 😂

[@boomerdiorama]

The studio is completely soundproof! ;-)

[@ducatisti]

Confidence is awesome, but starting out I think the main thing to remember is every build is a chance to learn, even if the outcome is terrible. Materials are relatively cheap when you're scratch building, so even if you fail a few times, you're always gaining knowledge and skill. So, tackle some difficult jobs, even if you feel they're completely out of your league.

[@boomerdiorama]

I fail constantly and press through anyway. It became a habit long ago when my Dad told me, "Don't sweat it Son. Just fail forward and glean the success as it comes through perseverance. ;-)

[@DRCRailroard]

Hey Boomer, I thought that you should know that you are my inspiration for scratch building with the evergreen styrene. I just recently made an automobile bridge to cross the river of my city scene out of scraps of 1/4 " Masonite and styrene and some styrene girder bridge extensions for my elevated track sections crossing the same river. With the magical illusion of paint, anything is possible. One of the issues I've come to is to realize that there just isn't that many commercial offerings of detailed structures produced in O-scale, especially at reasonable prices so one finds oneself scrath building it if you want it. I no longer need to wait to see if something comes along eventually and now it's a reality on my layout. This has really freed me up to progress with getting things done with my layout and can seamlessly blend it in with the surrounding scenery. I really enjoy the experience. So thanks for taking the time to show and encourage others to do the same. Happy modeling

[@boomerdiorama]

The beauty of "O" Scale is the compulsion to scratch-build. It was O (1/48) Scale that prompted me to scratch build decades ago and I never looked back. The more you practice the art, the more confidant you become and anything becomes possible. Cheers and thanks for sharing ~ Boomer.

[@colossalbigfoot256]

The camera is the coolest thing you’ve built.. well besides that huge tree for the semi. I really liked that. Maybe one day I’ll carve out time to get back to scratch building. Awesome work boom.

[@boomerdiorama]

SOunds good!

[@danielfantino1714]

Be honest Boomer ! These HO scale panels are just for your next shelf layout diorama. The question is at what not invented yet scale, train will be ? Footnote: don´t you think it will be cool to see a train modeler or a train hobby shop with photos inside the windows of a building on a layout ? Nobody did that (i think) just as if in duplicating reality on our layout, we don´t allow ourself to show a miniature layout. That have to change.

[@boomerdiorama]

Great idea! Keep it coming . . . ;-)

[@sigmanfloyd7179]

How old is Dusty? I just had to put down my little girl, my little dachshund and best friend on Friday, it was horrifying as she passed away in my arms! She was 15yrs old. 😢

[@boomerdiorama]

Dusty is five years old. Sorry to hear about your loss. It never gets any easier either. God Bless.

[@danielfantino1714]

Pretty sure that cuty Dusty is whispering in your ear that when the artist you are is out of movie studio, the studio is still in you. Cheers, both of you😊

[@boomerdiorama]

You're right!

[@JostNKase]

Really? My Dad was in the industry for years. I grew up on the studio lot. I find the whole thing fascinating. 😊

[@boomerdiorama]

It's an interesting career for sure.

[@chrisbarr1359]

Hey Boomer, I love your channel. How high is your layout off the floor? Thanks in advance.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. Track level is 57"" from the floor. It feels like I am right there. ;-) I use a step ladder once in awhile to reach the back, but not often. Cheers.

[@vincenthuying98]

Dear Boomer, awesome how you added the motion picture production element into the storage building. Very interesting how the opening door adds another perspective layer to the scene. Simply beautiful how the decor pieces add purpose and catch the eye. Love the way you build the camera and its crane. Definitely asks for a bunch of removable or interchangeable outside scenes in which film scenes are captured in a caboose or any other piece of rolling stock. Cheerio

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you very much Vincent! Cheers.

[@FredWilbury]

Al I’ll say Boomer is 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👌😎☕️

[@boomerdiorama]

It's rather small and obscure but surprising when you look through the trees . . . ;-)

[@FunWithHOScaleStuff]

I'll assume you had permission from your wife before converting the art studio into a film studio. 😄

[@boomerdiorama]

She likes it! ;-)

[@ralphrenzetti22]

Boomer, you never cease to amaze. This was brilliant and some good advice to boot! Thanks!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you Ralph. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@charlie1872]

phenomenal skills on that camera

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. The Panavision Camera model was one of those "in the zone" pieces that we all experience from time to time. ;-)

[@vsrrfan9977]

It would be great to see how you created the raised lettering on the stage signs. As always, thanks for the inspiration.

[@boomerdiorama]

Those letters are styrene frets from England. Can't remember the name now. They are still available thought so "Google" them. Sure you will find them. Try Styrene letters, etc. ;-)

[@JostNKase]

Boomer all ya need now is the Flashing Red 'Quiet/Do not enter while flashing " light next to the door shes entering.

[@boomerdiorama]

It is there and it functions. You can see it in the video. ;-)

[@plutoyaldnil4750]

Why didn't you use a coping saw rather than drilling

[@boomerdiorama]

I don't have a coping saw. The drill was at my feet - problem solved - lol.

[@larrydee8859]

As always; Your building modeling learning videos, are something I look forward to seeing! It's excellent relaxing therapy, and confidence building, in constructing my own layout. Thanks again Boomer for all your great work!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you too!

[@budjamison2149]

You are a crazy good modeler love your videos. What do you use for your brickwork?

[@boomerdiorama]

Those particular slabs were from "Wills" - Peco

[@johnwinstanley9538]

Use a Multi-Tool inplace of a Jig Saw. At low speed.

[@boomerdiorama]

Ahhh . . . the smell of burning wood . . . lol. ;-)

[@jdubb1973]

Great idea it's like a diorama inside a diorama awsome build very nicely detailed. I like how you took a normal building and turned into a spot that really draws the eye.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Finally finished this building after getting tired of looking at it. ;-)

[@bobhastings6464]

Great video Boomer! Scratchbuilding has always been one of my favourite aspects of the hobby and I love to watch your creations. That movie camera was a step above I must say. Excellent stuff! Just wanted to say “well done “ again Cheers Bob

[@boomerdiorama]

It is amazing what can be achieved with some scrap plastic and a # 11 blade isn't it?

[@eisenschweinchen5354]

The cat is so sweet! Great Idea, wonderful work!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! 😊

[@PostmoderneModelWorks]

You need a golf cart there, Boomer.

[@boomerdiorama]

No room . . . lol.

[@politicsandtrains]

What do you find as the best glue for plastic models?

[@boomerdiorama]

There are several. I use Plastruct Solvent (Orange Label) because it is low odor compared to the Tamiya Solvents. Having said this, Tamiya makes excellent solvent for styrene plastic if you can handle the odor. ;-) Cheers.

[@Enigmavelo]

Absolutely exquisite modeling once again Boomer you are a true inspiration. Cheers Andy.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@markham6000]

Two steps forward... one step back. Thanks Boomer. Such a great illustration why modelers should be encouraged to make their structure sturdy yet removable for such potential enhancements or changes. Thanks again.

[@boomerdiorama]

I know it's not for everyone but I like to save my buildings just in case. I mean models practically break and shed parts every time we handle them, therefore this helps to minimize fatigue when we move them around. Cheers.

[@FHollis-gw4cc]

Quiet on the set! Oh, wait, here comes that damn train again!

[@boomerdiorama]

I forgot to close the door. ;-)

[@rafaelvoncina6036]

Boomer single-handedly causing a building boom of miniature soundstages all over the world. Finally all those empty warehouses have a purpose.🤗 And all those out of era and genre models, too. You're as cunning as a fox.

[@boomerdiorama]

Two buildings finally down and many more to go. ;-)

[@johnniewelbornjr.8940]

Always a treat to visit a vid or two to catch up. How apropos! This scene really fits, for your scenes are great sets in their own right (I'm always thinking of my former model building and still photography). Familiarity with your modeling subjects is obvious here (love the wow-value camera), as is the attention to details. Dusty seems to have supervision under control! :)

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you very much! Yes . . . Dusty. She is planning on the next spot . . . ;-)

[@johnniewelbornjr.8940]

@@boomerdiorama Fur-faces are always in charge, eh? lol :)

[@robinbryde3038]

Great build and great tips... thanks for sharing this and a part of your life as well. Fabulous 😎👍

[@boomerdiorama]

Sure thing. Cheers. ;-)

[@cattaraugustonawanda4426]

Nice building! Do you ever use jeweler's saw with a medium/coarse blade to cut things like that door opening? I find a jeweler's saw and bench pin indispensable in modeling. Love the camera.

[@boomerdiorama]

I do . . . If I can find it. If I can't find something within arms reach I grab the next tool . . . lol.

[@cattaraugustonawanda4426]

@@boomerdiorama Been there, done that ! 🤣

[@gp9wildbill]

Hey Boomer, this building is a small foot print on the layout but packed full of eye catching detail . This gives me a lot of ideas thanks Bill

[@boomerdiorama]

Cool, thanks!

[@davidjulin1919]

One of your best build... The camra build was fantastic

[@boomerdiorama]

It was last minute . . . ;-)

[@johnschutt9187]

I continue to be stunned by your work. Thank you!

[@boomerdiorama]

Much appreciated! I hope it inspires because that is the intention. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@usssaratogacv3lefevre978]

Great video Boomer, tips are appreciated.

[@boomerdiorama]

You are welcome!

[@cameronwheatley7792]

Very very cool, I love the back stories in all your work, so much of your own self which adds a great personal touch. Thanks for sharing

[@boomerdiorama]

Glad you like them!

[@deanmeyer7887]

Dusty loves her daddy.❤❤❤❤

[@boomerdiorama]

For the most part but not always . . . lol.

[@FunWithHOScaleStuff]

Your imagination is amazing.

[@boomerdiorama]

Having fun!

[@ozzieguillen1109]

All your videos are awesome, but this one is special

[@boomerdiorama]

Glad you think so!

[@jstockton303]

I was very impressed with the details on the dinner build, the kid with the bike, the monkey 🙉 on the dumpster and the story behind it. This scene is even better, I like hearing the thought process behind the build, keep more surprises coming!

[@boomerdiorama]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@goforitpainting]

Cool as always.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@kevinmaloney2391]

VERY NICELY DONE!!!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. Kinda different eh? 😉

[@johnrusselljr89]

Love Dusty & show!

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . Thank You. ;-)

[@Gcscalemodels]

Really awesome work!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@Christiane069]

Man, you are amazing!

[@boomerdiorama]

Wow, thanks! You inspire by supporting the channel as well! Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@UrbanRail]

Amazing details

[@boomerdiorama]

Been in the detail zone lately so trying to milk it for what it is worth. Cheers. ;-)

[@PeterTillman3]

Wow Boomer - what a phenomenon build. The crane camera is crazy!

[@boomerdiorama]

The crane camera was last minute idea . . . lol.

[@mikedurhan9941]

Most impressive.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you!

[@ericp-ow1eq]

Excellent video and results on the studio!

[@boomerdiorama]

I can finally move on from it. Things are catching up now and prompting me forward. I don't like leaving unfinished business for too long. Cheers. ;-)

[@ericp-ow1eq]

Looking forward to your upcoming videos and progress.

[@GraceJones-kt7ck]

masterful!!!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. I feel relieved that it is finally done. Now I can move on to the next scene. ;-)

[@interactionhobbies]

Wow! Just wow!

[@boomerdiorama]

I love building flats for tight spaces like this. Thank you!

[@jesselomas8626]

Freaking stunning, as per usual. Well worth the time I spend watching these journeys. Nice to see Dusty 'hamming it' for the camera 😂!

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . Dusty . . . she really is a Ham. ;-)

[@jesselomas8626]

@@boomerdiorama 😂😂😂

[@WheelchairGuyHobbyChannel]

Very cool!

[@boomerdiorama]

Two buildings down finally and many to go. ;-)

[@allenlandis4504]

really looks good,can't wait to see it on the layout all lit up.

[@boomerdiorama]

You will . . . ;-)

[@WarrenFahyAuthor]

Cool!

[@boomerdiorama]

Cheers!😁

[@mr.e1944]

Looks great Boomer!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you kindly.

[@mr.e1944]

@@boomerdiorama Thank you!

[@interactionhobbies]

...did I mention WOW!

[@boomerdiorama]

It's a cool scene when you look through the trees. ;-)

[@interactionhobbies]

I know. I love hidden scenes. The viewer has to hunt around a bit and then it reveals itself. I try to design my kits the same way. Something extra inside or behind it. @@boomerdiorama

[@PeterTillman3]

Thanks

[@boomerdiorama]

You are awesome! Thank you Peter! Cheers ~ Boomer.