![\"\"](\"http:\/\/ricklawler-propaganda.com\/propaganda\/wp-content\/uploads\/End-of-the-Line-1.jpg\")
<\/a>Retired from the tracks, many old locomotives find themselves left to decay in forgotten graveyards of steel and rust. Once proud and powerful, the crippled Iron Horse is put out to pasture to await its fate with the cutting torch. This HO scene portrays such a graveyard, the Last Stop for locomotives. <\/p>\nThis project began with a trip to my local train store to purchase an HO scale locomotive, which I did. However, while talking with the store owner about my upcoming project he suggested that take a look at the Bachman scale train website were they offer replacement parts for those wishing to customize their trains. A few mouse clicks later and I was awash in all sorts of extra locomotive goodies that would be perfect for adding to my scene. And then without hesitation or remorse, I proceeded to ruin a perfectly good HO scale engine by cutting off the front boiler hatch and removing all of the visible \u201cguts\u201d. The purpose, of course, for this Iron Horse sacrifice is to portray an engine that looks as though it\u2019s been abandoned, and scavenged for usable parts and scrap metal. <\/p>\n
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I began painting by spraying a primer surface, over-which I will be able to add the requisite corrosion and rust typical of these forlorn beasts. I chose to use AMMO black and white colored primer \u2013 slightly thinned \u2013 to provide a bit of pre-shade contrast to the base. I noticed in some of my references that many of these forgotten locomotives, rather than turn into a rusted heap, instead reveal t<\/a>heir primer colors giving them a definite pinkish tone. Working toward this oxidized finish I begin by laying base tones using AMMO Primer colors, further tinted with red and white colors for added highlights. Next, choosing darker tones from the same range colors I added shading and shadows to the lower areas of the locomotive, providing depth and volume to the shapes \u2013 especially the cylindrical boiler. Feeling as though I have a good start on the base, I seal and protect the work done thus far by applying a layer of AMMO Satin Varnish. Once the Satin layer is dry I follow by a spray of AMMO Chipping Fluid. This is the part where I\u2019m realizing that I\u2019m not really sure where I\u2019m going with this, but I\u2019m planning for any event!<\/p>\n