Leaving slates loose on the layout

[berryr99]

Many thanks for all the most useful input on my previous request for help on the topic of making dressed slates.

I have a further question.

My layout is not intended to be portable, nor will it be exhibited and therefore in terms of scenery it is possible for me not to have to fix everything down.

I am having a lot of trouble with trying to create the sort of slate hills that can be seen around Blaenau. The problem is how to fix down small chips of slate and then also to give the appearance of "depth" of slate on the hill. The chips are put on over some Modroc and plaster as a former.

I was thinking of actually leaving the slate chippings loose on the layout. They are well out of the way of any tracks and should not interfer with running trains. The only downside I can think of is that when I clean the layout with the hoover the slate chips will get picked up, however I was simply going to put them back.

Any viewpoints or experince would be most welcome

Thank you

Bob Berry

[invercloy]

I wouldn't use them loose, can you paint the base grey, then cover it in something like no more nails mixed with grey paint, and then push the slates into that?

I think I would need something with plenty of 'grab' to hold on to the slate.

[Tigger]

That seems to be a good move.  In most cases I'd use a PVA  (Resin W etc) but if it's on a slope all the adhesive will end up at the bottom.

[Darren Hedges]

Try using a rubber based glue such as 'Copydex' or Woodland senics 'Hob-e-tac'.

These glues will remain flexible when dry, have a good intial tackiness and can be brushed onto the surface quite generously without the risk of it running down the slope.

Darren.

[berryr99]

Not sure if I have already posted this, so apologies if I repeat myself

Thanks for the thoughts on this topic, most useful and helpful as ever.

I eventually tried some Woodlands Scenics Seenic Cement both as a base and then a final over-spray.

The results were quite good with an acceptable appearance and good adhesion.

I was (hopefully) going to post a picture of how it turned out but my IT skills have failed me !

Bob Berry

[berryr99]

As promised a photo of the results of using Woodlands Scenics, Scenic cement to stick small pieces of slate down.

The pieces of slate are about 8mm long

Bob

[Tigger]

Nice shot Bob!  Looks like you're mastering Picture Editor!  Well done!

[berryr99]

Thanks again - I think I may have learned something today !

Bob

[invercloy]

Glad to see you found a solution.