How can I create undulating terrain and hills on my layout ?

Creating undulating terrain and hills can add depth and realism to a layout.

Here are a few methods that can be used to achieve these effects :

• Foam and sculpting : one popular method is to use foam as a base and sculpt it to create the desired contour of the hills. Start by cutting the foam into the desired shape and then use a hot wire cutter or a knife to shape it further as required. Once the basic shape has been achieved, other sculpting materials can be utilised, such as plaster or lightweight spackle to add texture and detail to the terrain. Remember to let the sculpting material dry completely before painting.

• Cardboard and papier-mâché : another technique is to use cardboard to create the structure of the hills and then cover it with papier-mâché. Start by cutting and layering cardboard to create the shape of the hill. Once the desired look has been achieved, use strips of newspaper dipped in a mixture of water and glue to cover the cardboard. Build up several layers of papier-mâché, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next. Once dry, the structure can be painted and additional details added, such as scatter, shrubs and trees.

• Modelling clay or plaster cloth : modelling clay or plaster cloth can also be used to create hills and undulating terrain. With modelling clay, a modeller can sculpt the desired shape directly onto their layout. Once the clay is dry it can then be painted and detailed as desired. Plaster cloth, on the other hand, comes in rolls and can be easily cut and shaped. Simply wet the plaster cloth and apply it to the layout, smoothing or shaping the cloth as desired. Once it is completely dry it is then ready for painting and adding further details.

• Landforms and ready-made products : if time is a major consideration, then a modeller could also use pre-made landforms and products specifically designed for creating hills and terrain on model railways. These products often come in various shapes and sizes, allowing a modeller to easily add hills and undulating terrain to their layout. Simply glue them in place and then paint and add details as desired.

The precise requirement for shaping the landscape may well be effected by a number of significant facors, such as the gauge of the layout and the location and nature of the terrain. Urban and suburban areas are more likely to have gentle contours, whereas many rural locations may well greater variations in the terrain. Ultimately the choice of terrain contouring will be determined by the individual modeller and the 'look' they are attempting to achieve.