Greetings all,

I have been model building since the 1950's and remember the Viking ship model. Recently I discovered a product called "Flexstone" that is made of recycled rubber and is for stepping stones in landscaping. I purchased three and so far they hold up to all my diorama needs. The first being the surface is rough and takes a layer of wood glue without warping. That in itself is very good. I use basic scenery material from various sources and real dirt or sand depending upon the location.
I use many hardware and home improvement products to create my dioramas and the results are very successful. All these types of products blend with other acrylic based products such as the craft paints I use exclusively, which when compared with color charts of military equipment do in fact match.

1.) I choose either a wood base (old method)or the recycled rubber. (New and keeping with the "green spirit)
2.) Brush on a layer of wood glue in a even pattern, while this is drying sprinkle either sifted dirt or sand.
3.) Apply a fine mist of water and use scenery material to cover the remaining spots to soak up the glue.
4.) Let this dry completely and place vehicles, figures, etc. with wood glue or clear glue.

I am including photos of either method as well as having posted photos of my 1/35th scale Tamiya M8 to War wheels. The photo gallery on Armorama under "johncpo" shows the resulting methods.
Additionally I will be changing to updated versions of several dioramas such as the Dodge Ambulance and medic as I have recently received two Masterbox kits that include figures to use with the ambulance scene.

Thanks for your time,

johncpo