Basic Ground Cover Production: There are several commercial sources for ground cover scenery material, but I am going to describe how I, and you, can make your own from sawdust or ground foam. While I have not used ground foam, the process is very similar to that of sawdust, though foam must be ground in a blender to produce the small size required. Most find their source of foam as scraps at upholstery shops. I find my sawdust in my wood shop or a local lumber yard. A couple of coffee cans will keep you going for quite a while. Try to find common pine or fir dust and stay away from treated or exotic woods because of possible toxic reactions and colorful stains.
Supplies:
- Sawdust
- Craft paint in several green colors
- Tea strainers
- Quart jar and lid
- Cookie sheet or cake pan
- Several small storage containers with lids
- Some old pill bottles
Note: For supplies I go to "dollar" type stores and haunt the kitchen area for cheap items. This is easier than using your mates "good" kitchen items and having to replace them with quality items. (spoken from experience)
Procedure:
Place a loose handful of sawdust in the quart jar. Place about a quarter cup (2 oz.) of water in a pill bottle, squeeze in some green paint, cap and shake. Pour the paint solution into the sawdust, screw on the lid and shake, shake, shake. If the mixture is too dry add more thinned paint, if too wet add more sawdust. In a few minutes you will have a somewhat consistent color. Pour the contents onto the cookie sheet to dry. I like to place mine in the oven, preheated to 150F, to speed drying and also kill any bugs, etc. Now repeat with the other colors and save in your storage containers.
No comments:
Post a Comment