Locomotives and wagons on exhibit needs a stable foundation to rest. In fact, Loewenherz has at least 3 plinths for permanent and revolving exhibits.

I experimented with 10mm plywood and 3mm cork as materials for various forms of plinths. Each material has its own merits – weight, stiffness, ease to mold etc. as well as look-and-feel. I wanted to experiment.

Material: 10mm Plywood vs 3mm Cork

In terms of hardness, no doubt plywood fulfilled its purpose. You need a wood saw and other tools to cut into shape. Cork is easy to cut with a paper cutter and shape but it is brittle. Adding a few layers of cork will give you the stiffness you want.

Optic: Plywood vs Cork Unweathered

I used Molto putty filling on plywood to create concrete surface and texture. For cork, I will leave it as is since it should be stone plinth. The grainy surface of cork looks nice with H0 model on it and figures at sides.

Overall Impression

I am pleased with the overall look and feel of both plywood and cork plinths and weathered them to give an aged look . After all, these plinths should be at least 40 years old and always under the elements.

What do you think? Give me your comments below.