Introduction

For those not familiar with the name PlusModel, they are a Czech manufacturer of resin model kits and multi-media accessory sets, diorama accessories and tools for the modeler.
This review subject is part of the Diorama series and is made of laser cut balsa wood.

Review

Set 431, Wooden Gate, round, is just that. It is a large, double gate that would serve as an entry to a large farm or courtyard area. Two sheets, nearly identical, are included in the plastic sleeve, with a cardboard backer to provide stiffness and protect the contents. Simple line drawing instructions show the parts on one side and the placement on the other.

The two main gate sections have a front and rear face that are glued together. The detail on the two faces is different. The remaining framing pieces build up, primarily over this main surface to provide depth and some reinforcing support. There are three slats that go into the window opening and are held in place by external pieces that overlap the seam.

I started construction with standard white glue, but switched to CA glue because it produced no warping of the thin wood. Assembly was fairly simple, going so fast that I realized I didn't take many pictures of the assembly process. Once completed I lightly sanded the edges to even them up. I did make a minor error on one gate, forgetting to take the rounded top piece all the way to the opening edge. This caused a slight offset that was filled in with wood scrap.

The balsa is very fragile as it is so thin, and it is easy to split and break, and like all small parts, one may be lost on the floor (like the small diamond decorative cut-out on the door face).

This is a simple, easy to assemble accessory that will add some interest in a diorama setting in a wide variety of historical settings.