Flock powder ballasting produces a much more realistic
effect and is used by many modellers on exhibition layouts. The
basic principle is to mix the flock powder in a wallpaper paste and PVA
glue mix.
The resulting mixture is applied to the
trackwork and allowed to dry. Although it is a rather time
consuming process, especially around pointwork, the end result is very
pleasing and once dry, it can be further enhanced by adding a light
mix of track colour paint.
Being a water based process, the ballast won't permanently
stick to the trackwork allowing points to be replaced if
necessary. It will, however, adhere to the baseboard
material. Flock powder is available from various
suppliers and in many colours. Shades of grey and brown can be mixed
together to produce realistic ballast effect.
The
images above show PECO finescale 'N' gauge track ballasted with flock
powder.
(Move mouse over picture for second image)
