Tough & Durable Model Railroad Scenery | Boomer Diorama ~ Vlog # 198

Matte Medium and Acrylic Paint produces tough Model Railroad scenery. This is why I use Matte Medium and good quality Acrylic Paint for my terrain. I also answer a few of the community questions and a word of appreciation to all my subscribers as well. Cheers ~ Boomer.
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.

[@stevencollins1643]

Thanks again for sharing your years of knowledge - very much appreciated.

[@boomerdiorama]

You are welcome!😁

[@ronaldvanpinxteren3644]

Hi Boomer, I can confirm. Many years I used spray adhesive and it really eats away static gras fibres and foam. Since I discovered over a year ago your channel I started working your way and it truly makes a difference. I use now on my layout only acrylic products and work now with beside the Vallejo paints also with Tamiya diluted with IPA and especially with the airbrush it works great. Never a clogging nozzle anymore. Now my standard adhesive is Matte Medium, which is great stuff. Can recommend it to every one. Also the Golden products are an eye opener. What a great quality. Thanks for sharing all your experience because it brought my skills to a higher level. The funny thing is that when my FB followers are reading my page, more recognize your Boomer style. I hope you will see it as a compliment to you. Thanks and regards from the Netherlands. Cheers Ronald (Modellbahn Rosenbahn).

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you for the compliment and the encouraging words. I wouldn't say the tree method I use is fast . . . but they last! When you think about it, you only really need a few well modeled trees to do the job anyway. Then, stick the speed trees in behind them. ;-) About the 3M adhesive concerning the small shelf layout I built before this one (Glover Road). I was sort of in a hurry and had no budget so I used 3M for flocking those trees and they are all pretty much eroded and stripped away now. They literally fell apart when I handled them after only a few years. They were also dried right out. Matte medium and acrylic paint seems dry flexible in a strange sort of way, and they stay that way. Matte Medium was initially designed for canvas - so it breath's and is flexible. I basically stripped the old (3M) trees and re-flocked the metal armatures with matte medium and static grass and they are now bullet proof. ;-) Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@alexlowe1840]

Thanks so much Boomer for sharing another great tip. I really appreciate it.

[@boomerdiorama]

Any time!

[@CM-ARM]

As usual Boomer I have learned a valuable lesson. Really appreciate your work

[@boomerdiorama]

Awesome, thank you!

[@usssaratogacv3lefevre978]

Boomer, I have been following you for about 9 months trying watch all your videos. I have learned lot from them. I'm not a rail guy but like looking at videos and getting ideas. The best is using alcohol and Tamiya paints.

[@boomerdiorama]

I'm addicted to using Isopropyl Alcohol and Tamiya Acrylic paint . . . lol. ;-)

[@patrickhawes5007]

All good stuff Boomer. Thanks for that pro tip. Cheers 🍻

[@boomerdiorama]

No problem 👍

[@RobertWard-l4d]

Boomer, may I thank you for your wonderful tutorials! Now whenever I have a modelling problem I just ask myself what would Boomer do? And there's the answer! River Road is epic, I could look at your old growth trees for ever! May I recommend 3 KZbin videos I'm sure you'll enjoy. First is "Return to Llanidris" set in Wales UK. Second is the Vale Scene in Pendon Museum in Oxfordshire. Third is Queen Mary's dolls house on display in Windsor Castle. Thanks Boomer, and all the best from Bob in Essex, England.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you for the recommended videos. I'll check them out. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@SouthDown]

Wow. Where have you been all my (brief) modelling life? Great show, good tips, great voice for narration. And no need to respond!

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . nice "Avatar" you have there! ;-)

[@Strkr3]

Always next level advice and knowledge! Thanks for helping ME level up! 😊

[@boomerdiorama]

You are welcome! ~ Boomer.😁

[@harperlarry49]

Cheers!!

[@boomerdiorama]

Same to you Larry!

[@MyFingerLakesRailwayLayout]

I hope you know how much inspiration I get from your channel. The short little shot of the weathered forklift in your last video got me looking at my 3 forklifts. So I rusted the tines... Then as I studied your photo some more - PAINT CHIPPING! The result was a very rewarding afternoon here in South Carolina. Cheers!

[@boomerdiorama]

Sounds awesome Bill. Those little kits look pretty good with a little paint. ;-)

[@navyf4s]

Thanks!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Much appreciated! Cheers ~ Boomer. 😁

[@bradleysmith2021]

I’m always amazed when people question the methodology of someone else’s work. Especially when the results can speak for themselves so clearly. I’ll just stay here and happily absorb someone else’s years of accumulated knowledge. Love your videos!

[@boomerdiorama]

It's always nice to be able to improve upon our methods as we grow in the hobby etc. When I worked in film I got a real education on model making. I can remember my first week and how quickly I was humbled by pros who were doing stuff that blew my mind - as they explained why. ;-)

[@garyrose8188]

Thanks again for your insights, Boomer. I have taken your recommendations on board and have seen the side by side difference between PVA and matte medium used for my scenery. Your sharing of the methods you use (along with Luke Towan's) have become the reference point at meetings/conventions when talking all things scenery. And rightfully so! Cheers from Downunder

[@boomerdiorama]

Glad to hear it. I still have use for PVA when it comes to wood, but not scenery, unless it is a big base area that makes economic sense. I only do scenery patches a little at a time so I stretch the Matte Medium as far as I can.

[@josephgartler447]

you are the king of short layouts

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. It's all I can manage anyway. Even model railroads can be overwhelming. ;-)

[@Sandlingjunction]

Hi Boomer great video, as an artist, I am so aware of all those benefits from acrylics that you mentioned. As a modeller especially now starting my newest layout and the first with really considered landscape modelling I am really now realising the benefits of some of what I use in my professional life into my modelling life. Cheers for that,out with all the hobby sprays and bad stuff. Golden and liquitex are my new best friends in my hobby space too. Cheers again Boomer, opening my eyes to what I should have already realised, but had not. Paul.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you for brining that up Paul. Liquitex has some remarkable products (like texture pastes) that work wonders for model railroads as well. I absolutely use professional artists products on my layout. In fact I find myself purchasing most of my diorama and layout products from art supply store over hobby shops.

[@Sandlingjunction]

@@boomerdiorama I get I have been looking around my normal art supply lines, never used Golden, but liquitex in the main. I shall look more closely to your videos and start to form a list of products to keep in stock for the New Sandling Junction Build. I have a load of aerosol spray can on sale cheap, lol. Have to say there are about three channels that I rate as my go to channels for diorama, yours is always now my first port of call . As it is you who are refunding my build knowledge in order to take my future work to the next level. Easy to say, but truly well meant, Boomer, cheers Paul

[@coolruehle]

Wow! You made me a believer in matt medium with that vacuum demo!!

[@boomerdiorama]

Matte medium has been around for decades (since the seventies) as art supply medium. ;-)

[@rolandhersom239]

Good advice. You do have many years of experience on your side.

[@boomerdiorama]

I appreciate that!

[@johnellis5341]

Thank you Boomer. I have followed you since the beginning and I am still learning along with you. 👍🇬🇧👍

[@boomerdiorama]

Awesome, thank you!

[@thecnwmondovilinepaulscota7304]

Boomer, thanks for another informative video. Based on your earlier videos, I switched over to MM and Modge Podge for all my scenery now. I use it full strength on areas where I am twisting and hand-sticking / poking longer static grass, and I use it diluted in larger areas of ground cover, such as dirt. I love how well the diluted spray MM works when adding many layers and colors of grasses or on trees. And thanks for the run-bys, love seeing more of that on your layout! I backed the video up and watched the run-by a couple of times. - Paul

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you Paul. For your information - I learned about "Matte Medium" during my military diorama days, from the late seventies, when François Verlinden, Lewis Pruneau and Sheperd Paine were using it. ;-)

[@wilzdart]

I have viewed many times your vlogs on tree making... As a rule what you show you use I get before I start a project and I can say they I have gotten great results and have found they look just as good as when built. I sit with my wife to watch out tv shows and make wire trees during commercials. You said one time your wife teaches art do you ever have her view a project? I vacuum with an attachment with small tubes works great. As always an other informative Vlog!! Thanks

[@boomerdiorama]

The trees take some work, but anything worthwhile takes work right? My wife critiques the layout once in awhile and in most cases (like the community) they are usually right. ;-)

[@brucemurphy1249]

Boomer, one advantage I see to using Matte Medium is that Dusty can get a scratch from a tree and the scenery bounces back!! Now I know why she stays out of trouble!!!

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . .yes indeed. It is quite "Dusty" resilient. ;-)

[@robertwanka]

When I tell my clients that the portrait I’ve painted of their loved one is made of materials that will last hundreds of years, they look at me like I’m kidding. There is a science to art, or they’re was; unfortunately it’s not thought so by a good many today. I really like your attitude about applying smart lasting materials to your model making. I’m watching your work and learning a lot. Thanks!

[@boomerdiorama]

I like to hear what you just said about material integrity. It makes a difference in terms of how more than one generation can enjoy the work as well. ;-)

[@RonsTrainsNThings]

Ok, see, this is the kind of content I LOVE...the kind that really teaches the how and/or the why. I never knew, never even thought about spray adhesive aging that way, though I have seen tree "shed" over time. Thanks for explaining this fact and the "why." I will be passing this along and my own tree/scenery modeling will be better informed now.

[@boomerdiorama]

The corrosion of trees will vary depending on the room temperature and humidity. Nevertheless, the trees will dry out dramatically after a few years and begin to crumble if you handle them. Matte medium never dries "brittle" and because it is flexible and non-corrosive, the trees will last indefinitely and stop shedding if they are initially massaged and sealed with acrylic. I mean think about it Ron, when we take down or rebuild a layout, we most certainly save the trees right? Trees are a big investment in time as well. ;-)

[@stevenstorey1945]

Boomer, you cover every aspect of model building, and that is what makes your channel so unique! Starting later in life building an HO layout which I have wanted to do sense I was very young, and just happening upon your channel two or more years ago was a true blessing. As a carpenter and retiring as a school teacher, starting a hobby that requires such small and intricate detail, I was just stumbling through the process until finding your channel. And, as one of your subscribers has already mentioned, there are times when you put up a new Vlog that it can not be distinguished from River Road or part of a prototype video you sometimes run. I'm not trying to build ego here. These are just facts I believe we all know as subscribers! You constantly show what the human mind is capable of achieving through years of experience, talent, skill, and dedication, with a willingness to share with your subscribers this knowledge, not to mention the video and editing of every step that takes a great deal of time and effort to turn out these quality videos. A real inspiration! Glover Road, and now River Road, is a testament to all of the above! Cheers

[@warrenholmar1129]

I always found your content very informative Ron. I used to be a dangerous machinery trainer when I worked in retail. I always explained to people why I did things the way I did. We had a trash compactor and a card baler. Both had particular ways of being emptied. On many occasions, I was asked to clean up a mess where someone hadn't taken care to empty either machine. Both machines took a standard Chep pallet. To give you an idea of the size of the mess. Whenever I trained someone, I would explain just like Boomer does in this video, the reasons I emptied both machines the way that I did. It came from years of experience and many mistakes along the way on my part as well. Mistakes are a big part of learning, after all. Thanks, Boomer, for taking the time to explain why it is that you do what you do!

[@RonsTrainsNThings]

@@boomerdiorama That is very true and makes perfect sense. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@PeterTillman3]

Since Glover Road (I started watching your channel in early 2020) you have selflessly shared your craft and techniques and the community is all the better for it. Thanks again Boomer!

[@boomerdiorama]

Wow, thank you Peter!

[@stevenlitkey9354]

During your opening roll-by I see a new building peeking out frame right, near the farmhouse. Getting curious and excited 😆

[@boomerdiorama]

There is a four part mini-series on that build section coming. I will mention it more in the coming Sunday episode! Cheers!

[@mr.e1944]

Another great video Boomer! If you talking I am listening. I have been using Walmart craft paint because it is cheap. I have to change that thinking. Redoing my work in a few years is not actually cheap. I will go to my LHS and start buying the Tamiya and Vallejo paint, so my work will last longer. As I said I am listening!

[@boomerdiorama]

You can thin down the Tamiya quite a bit with 50% - 99% IPA. Make four bottles out of one for thin washes when painting terrain, etc. That works out to be about a dollar a bottle, or so, and the color pigment is superior.

[@mr.e1944]

@@boomerdiorama Thanks for the advice/cost analysis. You mentioned making several bottles from one by mixing IPA. I will follow you as ice and try that for sure. Thank you!

[@thomasmcnay4564]

Thanks for your honesty Boomer, even if it’s “brutal”. 😏

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . O.K. Cheers. 😁

[@stevek4153]

Well said! The community is full of “quick and easy” approaches to detailing. Maybe it’s feasible for a quick-start on a large layout but as you say not permanent and what’s the point on a small layout.

[@boomerdiorama]

As significant as the RTR culture is on model railroading - I get it, it has no place in my philosophy when it comes to modeling a railroad. I mean, what is the hurry to build one after all the inevitable fails we experience along the the way? When we finally settle in - why not take it seriously? ;-)

[@tczephyr3665]

I don’t believe Shakespeare ever built a model railroad but he did capture it’s essence when he wrote “to thine own self be true”

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes . . . and I think Emerson also wrote - "Build Therefore Your Own World." - Emerson.

[@Vman7757]

Awesome comment. I would not have thought that through. Thank you.

[@boomerdiorama]

😁👍

[@jpkarenko6952]

I remembered your comment about "sealing" foliage with matte medium 'way back, and was never able to find it. Talk about locating a particular drop of water in the fire-hose of knowledge stream... Thanks for consolidating and reissuing these tips. The static grass reissue was also very helpful. Thank you from this Padawan Learner.

[@boomerdiorama]

I dilute matte medium with water in a spritzer (spray) bottle and mist down the tree and terrain. Use 25% matte medium with 75% water. Makes sure you flush out the spray bottle after words. The scenery will harden up but stay flexible while sealing in the color. Cheers.

[@jpkarenko6952]

Thanks, yet again! I hate raking leaves, even model ones. This should alleviate the problem. @@boomerdiorama

[@janetcameron4652]

Thanks Boomer & Dusty.

[@boomerdiorama]

Our pleasure! Thank you!

[@anthonyborden2513]

Excellent layout Boomer

[@boomerdiorama]

Many thanks!

[@Blk_GT8]

Boomer, thank you for taking the time to explain to us not only the “how” but also the “why” you approach modeling the way you do. It seems very few modelers use the artists lens when constructing their model railroad. You and Lance Mindheim have a similar approach to the hobby in that regard. As an art teacher of mine once said paint what’s actually there, not what you think you see. The spirit of that can be applied to the whole of model railroading.

[@boomerdiorama]

Well said. The model Railroad is a beautiful canvas and opportunity for anyone to express themselves creatively and to grow the practice as they embrace the art in my opinion. At the end of the day, I find the story we write visually to be most compelling. Ironically, the story can be a metaphor for our story as well. ;-)

[@tonypetts6663]

The silly thing is that I know about the properties of the various glues etc but still never put two and two together regarding longterm chemical reactions🤦. What you pointed out here makes perfect sense to me but somehow I needed explained. Now I'm sold on matte medium and the next time I commence building a layout I'll stock up. Good point about the longevity of paint pigments too, buying good ones with uv resistance is a must.

[@boomerdiorama]

I grew up on Humbrol and Testors enamels with epoxies, etc. There is no doubt Humbrol was excellent paint in the day, but way to toxic and stinky for me these days. However, on rare occasions I may use oil paints, but not too often to be honest. I do use 3M spray adhesive, but never for terrain and sensitive materials - no way. 😆

[@tonypetts6663]

@@boomerdiorama Funnily enough I always loved the smell of enamel paints and the glues backs in the seventies and eighties, but the first few times I tried tamiya acrylics the smell made me wretch lol. Things are much better now thankfully.

[@ronaldjoyce7374]

Boomer, as far as I’m concerned you are the master of the craft! You have taught me (us) soooo much in all of your videos. I get some of the questions and you do answer or send us to your vlogs, I mean what do people want for free, OMG, take Boomers gifts and run with them, do it, it’s the right way. You take pride in what you do, it shows it, on everything that you build. THANK YOU FIR WHAT YOU DO FOR ALL OF US! Damn, if I lived closer, I’d love to have you as an instructor. Ron

[@boomerdiorama]

Wow, thank you!

[@sammym.belfastchild]

I 100% agree , I would be all over those classes ...

[@kents.2866]

Just made my first wire tree, turning out great so far. My layout is going only going to be 10x13 ft. Might as well put the time in to make nice detailed trees. Thank you for all your videos.

[@boomerdiorama]

Exactly my build philosophy and you will enjoy it more as well. 😉

[@MikeHart-n3p]

Boomer, I love your work. I appreciate you sharing your skill and knowledge. I am a novice to say the least in model railroading. I try your techniques, some with better results than others. I have always been one to get it done and move on. Your are teaching me to slow down and enjoy the ride. I hope you keep this up for as long as possible. Thank you.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you very much!

[@Howie2025]

Great comments on longevity of your work on the layout. Luckily this video came out before I started making the 10,000 trees I need for my medium sized layout (next layout will be smaller lol). If you put the time into modelling you want it to last. So just to confirm, after the tree is made you then overspray matt medium over the whole tree as a sealer? These trees are a work of art and I'm hoping to produce something even 1/2 as good, I'd be happy. Great modelling and great videos as always. Thank you so much for the time and effort you put into this channel. Give my love to Dusty...

[@boomerdiorama]

Firstly, Try to use "Liquitex Professional" if you can. You can use a hand pump (spray bottle) with 50/50 (give or take) Matte medium and water. A few drops of IPA won't hurt to help it flow through the nozzle. Take them outside and soak them down good. Secondly, you can also use an acrylic (spray bomb/rattle can) flat coat if you are in a pinch. ;-) Thirdly, you can spray diluted matte medium through a cheap airbrush if you have a decent compressor (high P.S.I.) as well - make sure you crank up the PSI and flush the airbrush right-a-way with straight IPA when done though. ;-)

[@johnschutt9187]

Thanks, Boomer, for taking the time and effort to answer my question. I love your work.

[@boomerdiorama]

Wow! Thank you! Cheers ~ Boomer.😁

[@sammym.belfastchild]

Thank you Boomer , for the knowledge you so freely give.. I always love your classes... Cheers , till the next one , take care an say hi to Dusty ..

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! I will say hi to Dusty! Cheers!

[@goforitpainting]

Cool as always.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@dans_stuff]

Practicing what you preach, and the results justify every rationale being applied. Great open commentary on why you stand by your methods, so thanks again for another informative presentation.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts! Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@thomasdecker7631]

Excellent advice as usual. I will be using ModPodge just because it's easy to find where I am. One thing I might add is that I'm going to try taping a furnace filter to a box fan and letting it run in my train room. This is a variation of something I saw in Model Railroader years ago. Hopefully this will both keep air circulating so dust does not settle and provide air filtration at the same time.

[@boomerdiorama]

Great tip! I have a similar system and it does work well. The dust I experience is minimal because of it.

[@Quince828]

I have a large circular fan that I have aimed to blow the cool air out of the room during the summer months, and a hepa air cleaner running constantly.

[@schadowolf]

Yet another outstanding and informative video - your channel will be an inspiration to modelers everywhere for years to come! A living 'how to' on all things modeling!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks again!

[@richardterek3744]

I agree with the comments about how your video’s have lent itself to making so many of us better model makers. I especially enjoy your honesty and demonstrating your skills. The tip about using Matt Medium is priceless. The last thing I would want to see is my hard work crumbling away.

[@boomerdiorama]

Just wait a few years and you will be happy you did. ;-)

[@shaunhuckstepp7531]

Hi Boomer, just wanted to congratulate you on your award ,well deserved, The old fox has still got it in him lol, I go out to my layout of a night as it is now summer sit and look at the work that's been done using the methods that you have taught me . I couldn't of done it without all you help. Thanks mate

[@boomerdiorama]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@chrisd.9513]

Thank you Boomer for another great video. You encourage me to do better. Take care

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks, you too!

[@kelvinbranom10]

These short vlogs give me a chance to say up to this point great master modeling work and review.

[@boomerdiorama]

Wow, thanks!

[@jimbarrett1975]

Scale trees make such an impact and add so much realism to the opening sequence.

[@boomerdiorama]

One modeled scale tree has the power of ten! ;-) Cheers.😁

[@patmccarthy1624]

Super commentary; great advice! I'm still watching, and appreciate every lesson! Thanks, Boomer!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you for commenting and supporting the channel!😁

[@SD40Fan_Jason]

Okay now, until I saw your hand, I thought we were looking at a prototype photo. Wow! The attention to detail on your layout is over the top and impressive! If there are any awards for diorama appearances, you definitely have my nominations.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you for the compliment. The model railroad hobby is simply awesome. Cheers!

[@bruceames6332]

I am learning how to use your techniques. And they work perfectly . I thank you very much and appreciate your time in showing us how. Bruce in Minnesota

[@boomerdiorama]

You are welcome Bruce! Cheers!

[@michaelimpey1407]

Boomer, greeting from Australia. I have been watch your videos for a while now, and I find your techniques very helpful, and easy to follow. You are a great inspiration, and I really appreciate your video. Thank you for sharing, and stay safe, Michael

[@boomerdiorama]

Awesome Michael, thank you for sharing your thoughts. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@johnnyvscustomsgaragetassie.]

Ultimately the proof is in the pudding. If it work's don't mess with it. Thanks' Boomer. Cheer's JV

[@boomerdiorama]

I agree. The beauty of diverse materials is they all seem to produce great results for different people as well.

[@ericp6612]

Never get tired of your videos, I watch them over and over again to gain more and more information. You do amazing work and I thank you for sharing your talent/gift with us!

[@boomerdiorama]

You are welcome Eric!

[@GreenRC24]

You are indeed the master. Thank you for these videos.

[@boomerdiorama]

You are very welcome

[@huliediggs20]

Boomer, I am captivated by the visual depth of your shelf layout. Brother I can only imagen what a full layout would look like. Kudos

[@boomerdiorama]

Yes . . . "What a full layout would look like." You raise an interesting point, as the term "full" has nothing to do with size. This is why a full layout is so challenging to earn. They really do take time regardless of time, but the rewards are a tremendous experience.

[@PostmoderneModelWorks]

I’ve 100% bought into your system of making scenery. My channel is video proof that your method works.

[@boomerdiorama]

Great to hear!

[@vincenttolve9756]

I appreciate the excellent education you provide and only wish I had the talent, brains, patience, etc. etc. to make the best use of it. Keep posting and I'll keep trying.

[@boomerdiorama]

😁 Just have fun with it.

[@unknownrobot2881]

Very informative video. I'm sure with your years building for museums, making things that last is an important part of any museum exhibit. I believe the tank museum here in the UK had a policy of not accepting plastic models, since they would eventually distort and degrade. They may have changed that policy with the improvements in plastics these days. Huge congratulations on winning the IPMS first place and 'Best Diorama' . Well deserved recognition of your talents. Cheers Ian

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you Ian. I am subbed to that Tank Museum channel. It's an awesome channel and I especially enjoyed the Grant restoration. Cheers ~ Boomer.

[@bobdutka1176]

A lot of punch in such a short vid.👍🏻 Invaluable information for those of us that think about longevity as much as detail. I am always amazed Boomer of how much I learn from your vids... Thankyou! PS I love the moose, watched that vid and tried to make one. Let's say I need more practice... looked like a polar bear mated with a rabbit and horns mounted just to throw people's wonderment. Lol😳🫣😬😮‍💨🤭🤣

[@boomerdiorama]

Miniature sculptures seem to get better every time we make one fortunately. I like to call my moose - "Bull Winkle" - ;-) . . . lol.

[@andrewpalm2103]

Boomer, thank you very much for giving the reasons for your choice of scenic materials, particularly the comments on adhesives. You have solid reasons for your choice of high quality artist materials. Cheers from Wisconsin!

[@boomerdiorama]

My pleasure!

[@18vix87]

Thank you for generously sharing such a valuable information! I've built my first diorama for my polymer clay Sculptures using your techniques and I'm pretty happy with the results! I feel lucky to come across your channel at the right time! Keep up the good work!

[@boomerdiorama]

Wonderful!

[@UBME2]

Boomer, hope you’re doing well. I’ve been using matte medium for a few years since watching your videos. Up to this point all good/great. However, recently ballasting I noticed heavy white residue…. Found this on internet but thought you could help clarify ( no pun) what is going on.. “I occasionally had issues with the white residue before I learned to dilute it, let it settle, and decant the adhesive, as noted above -- although I go ahead and dilute it to 4:1 before letting it settle. I also add 2 drops of dishwashing liquid per cup of solution when mixing. As some have pointed out, the white residue is due to the talc which is used as a dulling agent. However, when properly mixed, the ratio of talc isn't high enough to cause spotting. So my guess is that you had some chuncks of talc in your solution…” Thanks, Kurt

[@boomerdiorama]

No talc in matte medium. It's a reaction to some other substance you are using or is associated with the ballast, paint, etc. In the past I just mist it down with IPA and it seems to go away with a wash or two. Other than that, maybe review all the mediums you use including everything and try to figure out the reaction. I don't get the white spots with liquitex and acrylic paints.

[@gordonkennaway3847]

Thank you Boomer, another really informative video. You are an inspiration to so many in the hobby!

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you kindly!

[@ianisaacs2340]

I may ask why you do something, but I will never question what you do.

[@boomerdiorama]

It's O.K. to question what I do. I am also interested in the "why and the what" since I also learn from the broader community as well. ;-) Cheers.

[@dougbierce9097]

I appreciate your attention to detail and I can say that the techniques you have been sharing work! While I've had a couple of "do overs" along the way, its a learning curve with the hobby for me. Again thanks for sharing.

[@boomerdiorama]

You can't rush scenery but only persist with it as your mood dictates. I keep doing "do-overs" all the time until it looks right. This is why I walk away from some scenery elements to come back a week later and view it in a different light. Then I make another scenery layer pass over top of things until it reflects and settles out my emotions. ;-)

[@vincenthuying98]

Dear Boomer, just love your ‘pedantic’ rants on the very reason why using Matte Medium or Mod Podge is the way to go to do scenery! Ever since I started watching your videos I’ve changed my adhesive from the regular PVA to Matte Medium and indeed there’s no surprise of any shedding. This to just add to the sticky substance of any argumentation against Matte Medium, pun intended! Wood glue is just good for glueing wood. It simply doesn’t bring the same lasting results as Matte Medium does. 😂 cheerio

[@boomerdiorama]

I think wood glue is O.K. in a pinch but like you day it is meant for wood and when dry is quite brittle in an open environment with textures, etc. PVA also lacks transparency as well.

[@ChannelWright]

Great advice doesn’t need to be justified. The truth is the truth.

[@boomerdiorama]

😁👍

[@Coreyhkh2]

Thanks for all the hard work! I have learned and continue to learn so much and love your artist approach to the hobby.

[@boomerdiorama]

Awesome, thank you!

[@hmathewsk28]

Boomer, Thank you again for a very informative video and “show and tell” of the end results of the short time of river road. On my return to the hobby I decided to build modules that can be put away. Seeing the benefits you e shown in the past with matte medium, I ventured down that road. The Golden products I have used have all been superb

[@boomerdiorama]

I guess the progress of River Road does seem rather short in terms of the build, although the layout feels large in scope in terms of perspective. Nevertheless, I have quite a ways to go so it all seems to balance out in the end vs video production, etc. Still having loads of fun though. Thanks for sharing. Cheers.

[@LukeRobinson]

Excellent advice. You’re the reason I glued all my track down with matte medium. It worked/looks fantastic!

[@boomerdiorama]

Great to hear!

[@allenlandis4504]

You never disappoint. Thank you for sharing this valuable formation.

[@boomerdiorama]

My pleasure!

[@dan8402]

The magic that is matte medium! Seriously I would have gotten all the other sprays and adhesives, but really you don't need them in most of the terrain applications. I was wondering at some point if you can review the installation process for your switch stands. They look amazing. This section of the layout is really coming together. I would have never thought to vacuum the trees.

[@boomerdiorama]

Those switch stands are not functional. I use CA to mount them onto plastic or wood ties. This way I can "pop" them off when need be. I do plan to review some awesome looking 3D printed switch stands soon!

[@dan8402]

I look forward to it. I wanted the North West Shortline stands that can be functional as I probably wont use switch machines. @@boomerdiorama

[@richardchalmers5163]

Well said in your video, truly enjoy the videos and your craftsman.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you!

[@bobhastings6464]

Couldn’t agree more with you Boomer. I have been using Tamiya paints for nearly 50 years… love “em! Matte medium is great as well. A question arises as I watched this video … who makes the switch stands that I see ( probably you did! Lol) Keep up the great work Cheers from Ontario Bob

[@boomerdiorama]

Those switch stands are no longer produced. I wish they were because they were made out of pewter by a Canadian company several decades ago. On the other hand, I saw some awesome 3D printed ones, with brass poles the other day at the local train store. If I get a chance I will review some of them soon!.

[@travisjodyh.842]

Keep up the good work, you’ve definitely changed my modeling for the better.

[@boomerdiorama]

Thanks, will do!

[@Partan.]

A short video jammed full of great advice, thanks!

[@boomerdiorama]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@pgronemeier]

AMAZING! Even that hand looked kind of real!!!🤣👍

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . brings things into perspective doesn't it. ;-)

[@WarrenFahyAuthor]

I hate the dry look - it just feels like it's going to get dusty and crap like some craft project instead of a thing that's built to LAST. Thanks, dude. You make those seemingly fluffy shit parts as hard and part of the diorama as the rest. Cool.

[@boomerdiorama]

This is why I like to use matte medium. It has a nice flat finish and stays rather flexible. It also mixes well with high quality paint. Cheers.

[@winterpirate]

awesome and informational video boom! have been waiting for an indepth video like this for a while!

[@boomerdiorama]

You should like the weekend feature coming up then. ;-)

[@winterpirate]

awesome ill be lookin forward to it boom!@@boomerdiorama

[@Quince828]

Really really helpful advice. I’m currently getting drywall repaired in my rec room and even though the contractor covered the layout with a drop cloth I know there will be dust. It’s good to know how to deal with it.

[@boomerdiorama]

Sounds good. I can vacuum my layout (being careful with switch stands) in about 5 minutes and it's all good.

[@jerrysmith1929]

Now I Understand. At my age I don't have much concern about longevity. However, cleaning is a short term problem. I wouldn't have believed a vacuum could be used like that.

[@boomerdiorama]

It makes a huge difference and only takes a few minutes on a smaller layout.

[@ravensonxpress]

this episode seemed a little bit like "The Addams Family" because of the "ice cold hand". Not sure if this is the correct name, but in Germany it is called "Das Eiskalte Händchen".

[@boomerdiorama]

Lol . . . it is sort of like the old show called the "Friendly Giant" back in the sixties. ;-)

[@bobainsworth5057]

I've had red/orange craft paint turn pink under fluorescent lights. Pink track doesn't go with anything.😂

[@boomerdiorama]

Sorry to hear that Bob. You can easily change that with a thin wash of Tamiya over top of it. Try a darker rust/brown thinned heavily with IPA and see what happens - can't hurt at this point eh. I make mistakes with color all the time and then just cover it up with another layer. ;-)

[@bobainsworth5057]

​@@boomerdioramaThanks, that happened awhile ago. I fixed it but before I started watching you. I would have done a better job 😊 I posted it to affirm your point about craft paints. Thanks for the response though. You are a gentleman.

[@markham6000]

I think we're losing the discipline and art for constructive criticism and healthy debate in our modern culture. You should be allowed to "push-back" to those who challenge your build concepts. Keep up the thoughtful and considerate videos for your shelf layout. I for one appreciate the benefit of your considerable skill and experience!

[@boomerdiorama]

Yeah . . . post-modern (skeptical) culture has gone way to far beyond reality. The truth never has to defend itself, at the end of the day, and if I get trolled because of it then I know what I said is legitimate. ;-)

[@warrenholmar1129]

Personally, I haven't seen any negative comments. However, I don't have a feed showing all comments to the channel. Generally, I would say the viewer base is very supportive? I don't think I've seen anything negative? With that said, it is the negative comments that stand out. My wife did a video of me on a family day at work. I was more worried about the truck spraying product onto the floor on video that I did my walk around before opening the tap to the truck. Someone had to point out that I didn't open the tap! As for the longevity of a layout. Our club has a layout, it is 50 years old. I have been looking at the scenery and the abuse it has had over that time. In many cases, I can see exactly what is being said in this video. Adhesives have failed or dried up. In many cases, if you took to the layout with a vacuum cleaner, most of the scenery would disappear. There are many places on the layout where buildings are coming apart because the glue used was just sticking the parts together and not making any mechanical bond. As much as this video may be some sort of push back. I'm glad it prompted the response. As I am about to start making trees myself. This video has answered the questions I hadn't thought to even ask.

[@stevenlitkey9354]

I have a question for the master of the scenery, Mr Boomer. I'm at a creative block on an apocalyptic diorama I've been working on. I'd like to hear your thoughts on modeling Spanish Moss hanging from the trees. Have you ever modeled such ? Preferred or possible material to represent realistic hanging moss. Scale is 1:35

[@boomerdiorama]

1/35th scale is awesome to model in. You can try some "Poly Fiber" from Woodland Scenics. Set a up a small "clothes line" string between to dowels, soak the poly fiber in "Matte Medium" (50/50) and drape it over the string and let it dry. I would use alligator clips to add some weight to the ends of it as the Poly dries , this way it will hang nice and rigid when it dry's. You can also squeeze the poly between two pieces of wax (parchment paper) until dry as well. When dry, trim off the stiff poly, paint it some with a spray can or airbrush, and add some super fine Woodland Scenics "turf" foam. Then attach strands to your tree like a model part. ;-)

[@cliffwoodbury5319]

6: 45 - that is one of the best looking trees I've ever seen on a layout and what makes it so much better is you have different species of trees on your layout witch I wanna say is rare

[@boomerdiorama]

A model railroad doesn't need alot of trees n my opinion. A few well modeled ones can have the power of "ten" if we take the time to model a few. Besides, the reward is awesome . . . ;-)

[@scenariomckinney]

Another great video!!! What is the music at the beginning?

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. The music is ~ 'Cielo - Huma-Huma' ~ from KZbin Audio Library.

[@FHollis-gw4cc]

First: You are to be commended for replying to every comment. Quite unusual. Next: I was shocked to watch you suck the branches of those trees right into the vacuum! Didn't expect that! Finally: Have you ever considered offering a DVD or set of your videos to the public? I would be interested because you never know when KZbin might just remove them. I'll be watching for your reply. 😊

[@boomerdiorama]

Thank you. It is possible since I do have the original copies. I think you can also download and save from KZbin as well.

[@FHollis-gw4cc]

@@boomerdiorama Oh yes I could download them. However, KZbin has slowed the download speed to the point that a 20 minute video takes nearly 45 minutes to download. I thought that, actually,, putting them on a 32 G USB drive would take only a few minutes on your end. Hope I stirred some dust in that old grey matter. If you want to take this off line, I can create an email single use email account and post it here.

[@mplake6909]

Boomer, new to your videos and like what you do. Can I ask what brand and model are your locomotives ? Thanks.

[@boomerdiorama]

I run mostly Atlas, Kato, and Athearn. I will go into this a little on the coming Sunday episode. ;-)

[@DisVietVetUSA]

Man that is a lot of Flocking, where do you get the energy 😂

[@boomerdiorama]

Two steps forward and one step back over time while being focused in on the smaller footprint. I don't make complete broad passes on model railroads like some. I break them down into unfolding chapters so I don't get ahead of myself and burnout. Cheers.

[@TinShackVideos]

Matte medium for acrylics is the equivalent to linseed oil (or I guess liquin) for oils, I believe each is archival....right?

[@boomerdiorama]

They are both compatible for the most part if that is what you mean.

[@TinShackVideos]

@@boomerdiorama Nah I was referring to the medium for each to thin the paint and be able to last for decades if not centuries. I'm prolly explaining that all confusing....lol

[@davecrosson5018]

I wonder if matte medium sales increased after 9K people watched Boomer just put a vacuum cleaner to his trees! Haha

[@boomerdiorama]

The shelves are empty of Matte Medium in my community at the local art & craft store . . . lol. ;-)

[@micheldescoteaux7192]

Thank you for your info,. I have spent a lot of time building my forest for my main Central Crawford notch scene. I did notice that the scenery of the natural materials are failing. I have a large layout with over 3000 trees over one section of the layout calculated. I agree on a smaller layout but what would you do with a large layout like mine.

[@boomerdiorama]

Just leave them and enjoy them. We all get better at this game after each batch of trees. I have trees from Glover Road that are falling apart due to the wrong adhesive and I just move them further back as I make new ones I stick in front of them. ;-)

[@micheldescoteaux7192]

@@boomerdiorama thank you that's exactly what I planned on doing. Bring more to the home front and use that as a dam to hold everything back in place. 😅

[@marka87]

Hi Boomer, as usual really interesting content. Which type of matte medium do you use for spraying on trees and scenery. There appears to be quite a vast array of different types of artists mediums available.

[@boomerdiorama]

Matte Medium can only be sprayed through an airbrush with high pressure and proper mixture. I use "professional" Liquitex (green label) which you see all the time in the videos. On the other hand, any "acrylic" matte clear spray can should work. Avoid any lacquer or solvent based product because they are corrosive to delicate scenery materials. Cheers. 😁

[@marka87]

Thanks Boomer - appreciate the reply

[@pkilznah5353]

What did you use to make the big tree’s? Don’t know of any wood dowels that big

[@boomerdiorama]

I also use cardboard tubes, PVC pipe, etc. I show some here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/b5THqmN8o6p5fLs

[@brucec954]

I hate / avoid if at all possible solvent based products now as I just don't want to deal with the toxic fumes especially inside the house.

[@boomerdiorama]

I came to that realization 30 years ago. I knew people in the film industry that never saw their retirement (cancer, tumors, etc.) because they were ingesting toxic substance like I mentioned for decades and it finished them off before their time in the the end. When they were 50 years old they looked like they were in their seventies. )-:

[@johnschutt9187]

I now that this is off topic for this post, but... When you do wet-on-wet painting, do you seal the basecoats first? Always? Rarely? How do you decide? Thank you.

[@boomerdiorama]

If all the coats are flat I don't seal the base coats because I want some "tooth" on the surface for the next thin filter (wash) to cling to. Acrylic likes a (microscopic) toothy surface for washes, apposed to oil which prefers a smoother surface. With wet-on-wet practice you will begin to realize it is more about how you manipulate the water than the paint. I let the paint go with water as I control the flood. It's a bit of a learning curve to use acrylics but well worth the effort once you get it down for so many good reasons - they dry fast! Imagine achieving the look you want sooner than you think with the option to finish what you have with transparent oils. Most times I don't bother with the oils because the wet method achieves remarkable results that will often surprise you. Wet-on-wet is a very powerful technique when you learn to control the tide marks - or let them happen for a purpose. If you don't like some of it you can blend it away with Tamiya through the airbrush as well.

[@johnschutt9187]

Thank you, thank you, thank you. I really appreciate your time and great reply.