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Topic starter
03/06/2026 11:00 am
For one of the 1/18 scale dioramas I am working on, I built a small 'abandoned chapel' kit and then needed steps into the chapel, so I resorted to DIY. I was digging around in the workshop and came up with several small, rectangular pieces of pressed wood, which were perfect for making steps that will eventually resemble old stone stairs (hopefully) and I went to work. The unit is glued and side panels created to give it a more solid look. I had to leave a gap on top and on the bottom, so it would slide into the recess of the chapel base. My next task is to use the new, nifty drum sanding units with my Dremel and soften the edges a bit and create just a bit of 'wear' to the steps, as in being worn down over the years for being trod upon. The last of the figures for this diorama is on her way and I hope to have it completed within the next two weeks. There are three other dioramas in the works, so it will be a busy early summer at this house.
03/06/2026 11:33 am
Nice ! Some excellent work going on here and will result in a fine-looking item for display or photography.
03/06/2026 11:39 am
I’m looking forward to seeing all the pics you want to post. I love seeing all the creativity Forum Members have.
Steve
03/06/2026 2:00 pm
...looks like quality work so far; keep the pics come'n! 😀 😀 😀
GDH and Tony Perrone reacted
04/06/2026 5:37 pm
fantastic! Please keep us posted.
Topic starter
07/06/2026 11:18 am
The steps have been sanded, edges softened, then given a coat of primer, sanded again, and repainted. Now, I will use a 120 grit to take off the high points to prepare for painting.
The colors I have to match are these, for which I will purchase a mid-level blue, black, and gray, as there may be a bit of blending needed.
I forgot to mention those nifty drum sanding units were too big for the Dremel, but I had a new Ryobi drill on hand, so all went as planned. I was even able to work on one of the mannequin restorations projects I have been avoiding.
This post was modified 5 months ago 3 times by GDH
Steve Jacobs and michaeldetorrice reacted