How to Build Model Trees for Model Railroading

Easy-to-Make Accessories for Scale Model Train Layouts

May 14, 2009

Don't spend a fortune buying model trees for model train railroading. Build your own miniature model trees at home and save money.

Miniature trees are a great addition for model railroad scenes, and are readily available for purchase at most hobby stores, but suppose the hobbyist wants to build an entire forest of trees without breaking the bank. With a few supplies, creating a miniature forest of model trees for a scale model railroad layout is easy and cost effective.

Selecting and Drying Model Tree Armatures

The first thing that will be needed in order to construct a model tree is the base stem. This is as simple as pruning the shrubs in the front yard or taking a nature walk and keeping an eye out for suitable stems. Choose a stem that is between four and six inches in length and has numerous branches. A cutting from the tops of most shrubs will produce a nice stem to work with. The stem doesn't have to be very thick, and the presence of leaves or berries are fine also. These will be removed in a later step.

Next, allow the stems to dry. This can be accomplished by hanging them from a string or placing them flat on a screen so that air moves freely around the entire piece. An old window screen will work great for this. Air flow is important to prevent the buildup of damaging moisture. After the stems are dry, which could take a week or more, carefully remove all of the leaves or berries so that all that's left is a bare stem.

Building a Miniature Model Tree

The hobbyist will only need a few supplies for this project, primarily scissors, spray glue and several ground, colored foams that are available from most hobby stores. Trim the stem to the desired shape and then carefully spray it with the spray glue. The easiest way to apply foam to the tree is to fill a plastic container with foam and then dip the prepared stem into it and shake it slightly. Alternatively, just sprinkle foam onto the prepared stem.

The thickness of the tree can be easily varied by applying more glue and foam. Spray the stem a second time and add more foam. Repeat until the desired thickness is achieved. By adding different colors of foam at different stages, one can create the effect of changing leaves in fall or spring colors.

Completing the Model Train Landscape

Using an awl, screwdriver or ice pick, make a small hole in the model train landscape and insert the stem into it. Use more foam to fill in around the stem if necessary and it's finished. Then just make and add as many model trees as desired. It's that easy! Get the kids involved and go on to build model landscapes for dioramas and Christmas scenes. Model landscaping is a fun and creative hobby for all.

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