Shiny brass and the PXA…

It was a few Friday Updates ago that I first shared a photo of this project, the Powell Duffryn PXA recreated in N - this distinctive bogie steel wagon a must since the Boston 03 about this time last year…

My typical multi-media Scratchbuild approach sees parts made by hand combined with those designed on the computer and then produced in 3D or etched metal. The core of this model is in fact a solid 3D print - which adds to the weight for sure - printed by Shapeways. The tarpaulin is paper over this former, and the pipework amd underframe details are scratchbuilt in wire and various styrene section. This has been shown previously.

The bogies are fitted with slightly under scale wheels because otherwise they rub on the frames, but I think it will be ok once painted… the joys of a one-off model! This week the custom designed etched parts arrived. These had been created in CAD so I was pretty sure they’d fit alright, but it’s always nice to see them applied to the model.

With this complete the next step is the paint shop - and still some more design work left, creating the distinctive markings that Powell Duffryn applied to the tarpaulin. Then she can join the PFA I created last year - and that leaves just one more prototype from that Boston video to re-create, the Tiphook curtain hood bogie ferry-wagon… not that I need one…

Creating models can be broken down into a series of predictable craft steps.

They provide a mental respite, a mindful retreat from the stresses of real life.

More, when we make a personal emotional connection to the project, be it a direct memory or a passion for what we hope the end result will achieve the result is elevated beyond plastic and metal - a little bit of ourselves is captured in these forms, and can be enjoyed, studied and treasured by friends, family and the wider public… you are here doing that with all that crosses my bench and thank you for that. I hope you enjoy the varied ramblings you find here. Until next time, more soon…

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