James River Branch: Frisch Falls

Frisch Falls

It may seem corny, but I always try to incorporate at least one waterfall in each layout I build, although I'm not always successful. I had a really nice series of falls in the works on the previous version of the layout, and I'd hoped that I could have something at least nearly as interesting on this version.

Waterfalls can be unpredictable. Since I cast my rock in place with rubber molds, I can't always guarantee things turn out the way I envision them. Although I do rely on some hand carving to achieve the level of control needed to create believable waterways, the casting process can produce unexpected results—but nearly always satisfactory, and sometimes it exceeds expectations. Indeed, the process is quite fun because the final outcome is a surprise.

This time it was no different than the last. Although I had a general idea where the water was going to flow and what the relative sizes of the various falls would be, it was up to the casting process to create the final direction. Only a minimal amount of hand carving was required this time, mostly around the joint between the access panel and the rest of the layout.

As of 5 December 2008, the rockwork is all done, and subsequently greenery was added. It will be some time before water can be poured, however, since water is always the last thing to be added to scenery.

The prior version of the layout had a very dramatic waterfall scene.

The permanent half of the waterfall area is done circa April 2008.

The rockwork for the access panel is completed circa December 2008.

Greenery is added after the rockwork is colored.