There are many ways or methods to achieving a realistic looking bush. My method is just one way and to me, the most simplest solution. Whatever method works for you:
- I used ‘Grey Roof Lichen’(Latin name: Bryoria capillaris), which I collected from a fallen pine tree in my back yard. There’s lots of this stuff. You can also use natural twine rope, which most modellers use. I did not have any on hand, so I decided to go out in nature and test out this material.
This is what it looks like on the tree:
- I cleaned off any unnecessary debris from off the Lichen, and tore off a small piece of this material. I picked the thinnest lichen clump I could fine. The thinner the strands the better it will look. At least for me. Then I took a brown Tamiya spray can(any brown color will do, depending on the look you want). I sprayed the lichen until I was satisfied. Left it to dry.
- Then I took a can extra hold hair spray(spray varnish should work as well. Or a fine type of spray glue, whichever that works best for you). I spayed it on the areas I wanted leaves on the Lichen. Then I took som Noch, Medium Green leaves. I had this on hand and was perfect for this job. Nice quality too. I sprinkled very sparingly for the ‘sparse look’, I was after.
This is the final results placed on the vignette:
Voila! Now how simple was that??? And absolutely realistic( in my eyes at least). But like I said, whatever suits you, go with that method. I thought this would save you time and money. Good Luck
Like I mentioned, there are many other ways to probably do the same thing, but up to the artist to choose what he or she finds preferable.
