Hey guys,
I’m ready to make a small display base i think for one of my recently completed aircraft. Where do i even start? i have a 1/48 scale p-51 that i just want to put on a wood type base, maybe like a grass/concrete thing going on, i don’t know. i just want to take the next step and have a cool display for my plane. i have been checking things out on here, but i figured a post on it couldn’t hurt too much!! any help here is greatly appreciated. i’m sure there’s a lot to go into it, espeically to what i want, but i’m just thinking something simple to start out. thanks.
You may want to start by looking into a Verlinden type base-- they offer PSP, and in some cases tarmac as well I believe…or just cut a similar sized piece of MDF or similar material and put some groundwork on it… there are some great books out there on terrain modeling. Some companies sell wooden display bases- but they can get pricey…
Well, if you’re parking it on grass, just get some Woodland Scenics turf, as fine as you can get, in the railroad section of you LHS. Cover the plaque with white glue, you don’t have to make it square, just so it extends beyond the edges of the aircaft and sprinkle the turf on it so the glue is fully covered. Dril a hole in the base where one of the main gear will be and drill a hole at the bottom of the corresponding wheel Place a piece of brass rod in the wheel and super glue the plane to the bse.
Now, this isn’t a diorama, since you’re not telling a story, just placing an aircraft in the environment.
Look for a pre made unpainted plaque. Pick a size that seems workable. I’m not sure of the exact dimensions of a p51 in that scale. If you can’t find a precut plaque try looking at cabinet fronts they are usually available unstained and are easy to finish. For concrete I’m thinking about trying a spackle/Celleclay mix…
Brian,
I used the Eduard PSP base for my Tamiya 1/48 Mustang. Mounted on a plaque from Michaels. Quick and simple.
The grass idea suggested by ajlafleche is also a great look and you can do a tarmac with some poster board painted grey with some separation lines drawn on.
Experiment.
Long time since I have done aircraft, but I see some nice 1/48 figures and vehicles around now and then, if you were thinking about going a bit further.
Figures, even just one, do a great job of showing scale. Not everyone who looks at your P-51 will have a clear idea of the real planes size, so this helps.
It seems to me that there is a very fine line between display and diorama. As in most art, it is the eye of the beholder. Do what makes you happy. This forum can give you more support than you can imagine. Just have fun and do what makes you feel good.
