One show from childhood that has always fascinated me was “Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends”. I’ve always loved how despite the sets on the show essentially being small model train sets (1:35 scale, Gauge 1/G Gauge model train sets to be exact), the sets and models are filled to the brim with rich detail that makes them look realistic. From the weathering on the hard-working locomotives, to the little set dressing decisions such as ballast, metal scrap, rolling stock, etc. I believe that the camerawork and craftsmanship really carried the show, further emphasizing its storybook fantasy world by making it look realistic, and I think that has helped me with being creative, and a little bit detail-oriented at times, throughout most of my life.
Naturally having been a fan of the show, as a child I would often go on YouTube starting around 2008 and search up other peoples’ videos about it, which was where I would find a fandom dedicated to Thomas. It’s very clear that other people have been inspired by the aesthetic of the show, which is why you’ll see people making models such as more detailed interpretations of the characters or even simply making replicas of the props used on the show. In 2021, I became inspired to replicate models seen on the show, so here are some examples of projects I’ve built from scratch inspired by those fan works:
As with any craft or skill, I’m always looking for ways that I can improve my model making skills, as I’m still not perfect at it. Currently I’m attempting to scratch build my models using less cardboard (which I might still use for larger projects) and more of styrene and wood as my main material.
Milliput is also a very useful tool, as not only can I make sturdier sculpts with it compared to polymer clay, but I can also use it to fill in any gaps or repair damage on a model when needed.
Currently I’m working on models made to fit on LEGO Gauge track. I’ll keep you updated on my models whenever there is enough worth sharing, or if I finish a new one. See you then.