DIY construction 1 (materials)

 

So, you’ve decided to embark on creating your first fully self-built model—congratulations! But where should you begin? The best advice: start simple. Begin with a basic rectangular structure featuring a flat roof, such as a shed or a small bungalow. This straightforward approach will set you up for success.

 

Drawings
When creating a model of an existing building, having access to construction drawings can be incredibly helpful. If these are unavailable, it's best to start by creating them yourself. 
Construction drawings are often created at scales of 1:50 or 1:100, requiring you to recalculate measurements manually. However, a more efficient approach is to convert the entire drawing to a 1:87 scale (or 1:45 if working in O-scale). This way, all distances can be easily measured directly from the adjusted drawing, saving time and effort.

How do you ensure a drawing is accurately scaled to 1:87? For this, you need to calculate the conversion factor.
For example, in a 1:50 scale, every centimeter on the drawing represents 50 centimeters in reality. In the h0 scale (1:87), every centimeter represents 87 centimeters in reality. This means an h0 drawing should be smaller than one in a 1:50 scale. The conversion factor in this case is 50/87 = 0.57. So, when scanning a construction drawing, you need to reduce it to 57%. Alternatively, you can visit a local copy shop and ask them to reduce the drawing to 57% for you.

Now, consider a 1:100 scale, where each centimeter represents 100 centimeters in reality. In h0 scale, it represents only 87 centimeters. To match h0 scale, the 1:100 drawing needs to be enlarged. The conversion factor in this case is 100/87 = 1.149, or 114.9%. Adjust your drawing accordingly to achieve the correct scale.

 

Illustration of the north facade (Noordgevel in Dutch) of a signal box located in Hengelo, the Netherlands. The drawings are presented in two scales: 1:87 (above) and 1:100 (below). Take note that the 1:87 scale (h0) on top is larger compared to the 1:100 scale.

Simplify!
The next step is to simplify your drawings. Remove elements that won't be visible, such as those hidden at the back. Or details that don't align with your layout's style or theme. 
If certain components feel too complex for a beginner, simplify them too. Consider researching whether intricate details, like gates or windows, are for sale pre-made in a style that complements your design. If they are, adjust your drawings to incorporate those elements. 
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Cutting mat with a set of precision knives

Essential Tools You'll Need:

  • A high-quality propelling pencil and eraser.
  • A flat metal ruler (preferably steel), for accurate measurements and clean cutting lines.
  • A drafting triangle, to ensure precise 90-degree angles.
  • Glue: cheap wood glue from a discount store works great for cardboard projects.
  • Elastic bands, clothespins and painter’s tape, to hold pieces securely in place during construction.
  • Transparent plastic, to create glass-like effects for doors and windows. Overhead sheets from copy shops work well, but you can also repurpose clear plastic from old packaging with built-in ‘windows.’

*) With aluminum rulers, a sharp knife can easily cut into the surface.

It's always helpful to think creatively about how 'waste' can be repurposed. Thin metal rods or paperclips can become rain pipes, plastic tubes make faithful chimneys, and matches or cocktail sticks can serve as wooden beams. Also leftover materials from built kits can provide plenty of useful parts for your projects.



Next: Do-It-Yourself 2 (construction): not available yet

Materials
It’s a good idea to start building your first model using cardboard. It’s affordable, easy to cut, and effortless to customize. You can glue printed textures like bricks, slates, or roof tiles directly onto it, and painting is simple as well. 
For the best results, use sturdy cardboard with a thickness of 1.5 to 2mm. Grey cardboard is the most cost-effective option. If one side of the cardboard is white, use that side for the interior to create clean, white interior walls. The grey exterior can then be painted or covered with printed textures. Double-sided white cardboard is also available, but it tends to be more expensive.. 

For precise cutting, always use a sharp knife. Snap-off blades are an excellent option for versatility. However, discount stores often offer affordable sets of precision knives that are sturdier and less likely to 'drift' while cutting. While you're at it, consider picking up one of those green cutting mats aas well to protect your surfaces and ensure clean cuts.

Painter's tape and clothespins are invaluable for temporarily assembling a model before gluing. This allows you to spot and correct any mistakes before applying glue.

Paint
It can be tempting to opt for acrylic paints from discounters too. However, my experience with them has been less than ideal. Cheap paints typically contain fewer pigments, which means they offer poor coverage—especially with lighter colors. As a result, you'll need to apply multiple layers to achieve the desired effect. Not only does this add extra work, but it can also obscure fine details in your work. 

I highly recommend investing in high-quality paints, such as Vallejo Model Color. While they may cost a bit more, they can save you a great deal of frustration in the long run.
I generally avoid using enamel paints like Humbrol or Revell, unless working with plastic parts. In those cases, always apply a primer beforehand! Water-based paints are not only easier to correct if you make a mistake, but they are also more environmentally friendly.

For quick touch-ups or small details, acrylic markers are a convenient alternative. You can find these in well-stocked craft stores.