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Passing Through '42

The Tree & Bridge

As the terrain on opposites sides of the stream is uneven height, I had to scratch build a wood fording bridge to handle the situation. I drew a design on my computer, using Micrografx Designer, which is intended for accurate technical drawing. I used the lengths and pattern to cut individual strips of wood, and glued them together with CA glue. Having seen photos of similar bridges built by German Engineers, I used Evergreen plastic "T" strips to simulate metal retaining guides used to hold the bridges together under the weight of vehicles. I also used the 'iron' to trim the edges, providing more architectural strength. Spackle mixed with acrylic paint was added to simulate loose mud on the bridge surface, and to coat the boots of the walking soldiers.

The tree is a wire and tape design, purchased at a arts and crafts chain store just after Christmas. While these trees usually sell for $8 and up before the holidays, I have consistently found that the weeks after Christmas, they are all on sale for $2 to $4, so I stock up. While the tree lacks some desired levels of detail, this is easily added, and the artificial snow usually covering the limbs is easily removed if so desired. I have a large collection of these trees, and have used them with great success. The nicest thing about the trees is that they are easily formed with the bare hand to give you the shape desired. By twisting the tape wrapping a bit, and adding some shaded colors, I was able to more realistically simulate wooden bark. I then 'misted' the tree with a mixture of white glue and water, and then dropped shredded tea leaves over the branches and trunk. The effect is falling bark, and some foliage that provides the final desired effect.