scalescenes.com

Mounting

For mounting large areas, as unlikely as it seems we have found the best option by far is the humble glue stick (we use UHU).

As long the backing card is given a generous but even coat of glue, not only do glue sticks not wrinkle or bubble, but the sheet can also be repositioned and smoothed for several minutes after application. We have also found the adhesive to have excellent longevity.

Use a rubber roller or squeegee to ensure good adhesion to the card. An even all over coverage will avoid bubbles.

Protecting the print surface

It is strongly recommended giving sheets several light even coats of artist's matt spray varnish (used to fix chalk and pastel drawings and available from most art supply shops). This helps protect the print surface during construction and reduces fading and discolouration. ALWAYS TEST THE VARNISH ON A SCRAP PRINT BEFORE APPLYING TO YOUR MODEL!

Gluing

For spot gluing or applying a thin beads of glue, use ‘all purpose’ clear (UHU - the solvent free in the green twist top bottle works well and doesn't string) or PVA adhesive. Use sparingly and keep a damp cloth handy to wipe glue off your fingers. Apply weight to assist with adhesion if required.

For small elements, we use and strongly recommend Fine Tip applicators.

Cutting

Use a quality modelling knife. Remember, REPLACE YOUR BLADE REGULARLY (card blunts knives very quickly). NEVER apply excess pressure to the knife, it’s easier to cut through heavy card with several lighter slices rather than a single cut. As you are cutting, try to keep the blade at a shallow angle, this avoids a rough ‘ploughed’ edge either side of the cut.

Folding

With the exception of smaller parts it is easier to fold elements before you cut them out. Crease each end of the fold first using the blue dashed lines as a guide and then work gently towards the middle.

Scoring

Score all elements before you cut them out. Scoring involves dragging a knife VERY LIGHTLY along the surface of the sheet only just breaking the surface of the paper. Practice on a piece of scrap first.

Wrap & glue

Using a small piece of scrap card smear a thin even coat of glue along the overhanging flap and then gently fold it tightly around the edge of the card. Keep a damp cloth nearby to wipe off any glue from your fingers.

Weathering the model

Using a sharp knife scrape a small amount of black and brown artist pastels on to a scrap of card. With a soft brush work very small amounts of the pastel dust into the corners and surface of the structure as required. Build up thin layers slowly, don’t over do it!