Most modellers, regardless of what scale they work in, rely heavily on the humble plastic or metal kit, and this book will help both novice and more experienced modellers to achieve the very best results. George Dent presents here a clearly written foundation course in constructing rolling stock from kits.

This richly illustrated book offers a complete guide to building model truck kits, across all of the popular scales. Concentrating on civilian vehicles, renowned modeller George Dent describes the fundamental processes involved in kit-building, including preparation and assembly of components, detailing and modification work including custom fittings, plus an in-depth look at painting and weathering techniques. Featuring a range of popular, readily available kits in all of the popular scales: 1:72, 1:48, 1:35, 1:32 and 1:24, and suitable for modellers of all abilities, each project is clearly explained in an illustrated, step-by-step format with over 680 colour photographs.

Once seen as a niche practice, the craft of weathering has now become firmly rooted in the railway modelling mainstream. Not simply a means of rendering models in layers of dirty paint, weathering involves a myriad of techniques aimed at improving realism, including distinctive surface textures, highlights and shading, burnishing and peeling paint finishes. The weathering process beings out the best in a model, making moulded relief or a lustrous livery really stand out. As well as replicating the real world more closely, weathering also helps a model to look at home within a scenic setting. Aimed at modellers of all abilities and eras, this book is an essential guide to creating the most realistic locomotives and rolling stock in any scale.

Locomotive kit building remains the best route to achieving a varied range of motive power in most scales but it also retains a mystique, being associated with expert modellers and expensive tools. However, in this invaluable, richly illustrated volume, George Dent demonstrates how anyone can successfully assemble working kits with only a modicum of inexpensive equipment and experience. All aspects of assembly are covered in detail including working in plastics, resin and metal; the very basics of working and joining materials; installing ready-made power units and performing more complex operations, such as assembling etched metal chassis frames and intricate valve gear.

This beautifully illustrated and practical book covers a wide variety of materials and processes, and tells you everything you need to know about building model railway coaches. Master modeller, George Dent, guides the reader through the necessary techniques and skills. All aspects of the subject are covered from kit building in metal, plastic, resin and wood; soldering, weathering, painting and lining; 3-D printed kits and components; adding passengers to the carriages; upgrading off-the-shelf models; kit assembly, scratch-building and finishing.

During the twenty years in which Britain's nationalized railway operated mainline steam locomotives, a vast array of individual designs complemented the British Railways 'Standard' machines, built up to 1960. Such was the variety of motive power to be seen on the network that this 'early' period of BR's existence has proved to be the most enduring amongst enthusiasts and modelers. The ready-to-run market has reflected this popularity in terms of models and liveries available off-the-shelf. Despite constantly rising levels of detail, finish and performance, r-t-r models can never cater for every variation in components, equipment or livery that invariably arose within large and long-lived fleets. Nor can they offer particular running numbers and names to satisfy every customer, while older products may also require work to bring them up to the standard of contemporary offerings. Therefore, being able to change factory-applied decals, add period or individual locomotive-specific details, modify a livery or create an authentic weathered finish can prove vital to achieving a heightened sense of realism and individuality within our traction fleets.

The airbrush is an essential tool for modellers striving for professional-looking results. It can greatly enhance the quality of your modelling output, whether applying a full livery scheme or simply blending in areas of new paintwork. A good airbrush will offer unparalleled levels of finish and consistency, as well as the chance to create unique effects such as weathering and stencilling. This book reveals how anyone can use an airbrush effectively, provided that a few basic rules are followed. All of the necessary techniques are described, along with a wealth of practical guidance and detailed advice on choosing a spraying set-up to match your own needs and budget. Topics covered include: paint formulas and colour matching; cleaning and maintaining the airbrush; 'Tricks of the trade' and finally, techniques suitable for a range of subjects, across each of the popular scales.

Weathering is not just about making something look dirty. Rather, it should be seen as an artistic endeavour, with the aim of making a model appear as lifelike as possible. It also helps to blend a range of separate structures into a cohesive scene. Careful weathering brings out the best in even the most mundane model, drawing attention to moulded relief and enhancing surface textures. In this latest volume, expert modeller George Dent shares his theories and practices on the art of weathering buildings, motor vehicles, ships and all manner of scenic features.