Commission: Ruston 30DL in 16mm/ft…

It was rather lovely to be asked by a friend to build him something special for his garden railway. A scratch-built hand made creation to run alongside generations of 16mm models, I was honoured…

The initial idea was another Hudson Hunslet but I pointed out I could build something completely unique for similar money… Ruston quickly cropped up, and a pleasant tick tack of emails with prototypes and ideas we settled upon this 30DL.

Whilst a lot smaller than many of my 7/8ths build these 16mm models have a lovely presence. The model combines modern techniques and traditional scratch building - my calling card I suppose. Laser cut acrylic to my own 2D CAD mated with etched brass parts, crafted to my own artwork and 3D printed elements from my own 3D CAD - all blended through heartfelt modelling and detail added in traditional methods.

The results sing, they showcase my passion for creating miniatures and especially of prototypes with as much character as a Ruston where no two seem the same!

Under the removable bonnet is the Lipo battery and radio receiver, under the floor the gear head drive and on/off switch - along with some extra weight. Slaters wheels are a quality touch and add further to the mass.

All of this wrapped in a weathered finish, Ruston middle bronze green lightly distressed to give the feel of a well loved machine, which I hope she will be…

If you’d like me to create your own dream model, using a collaborative approach so that the result feels as much yours as mine, then get in touch using the contact form to discuss your requirements. I can work in all scales and gauges, and am happy to do so - but for now, until next time, more soon…

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