Base Layer and Terrain Creation

• Use foam board, cardboard, or wood as a foundational base
• Employ sculpting putty or foam insulation to create realistic terrain contours
• Experiment with different textures using palette knives or sponges

See my article on SCENERY

Vegetation Techniques

• Create custom trees by twisting wire frames and covering with ground foam or lichen
• Use static grass applicators to make grass stand upright realistically
• Layer vegetation from ground cover to bushes to trees for depth

Water Features

• Utilize acrylic paint, resin, or clear silicone to create rivers and streams
• Add texture to water surfaces using brushes or sponges
• Create depth by painting realistic riverbeds underneath transparent layers

Structural Elements

• Construct buildings using:
• Plastic model kits
• Cardboard
• Custom-built foam board or balsa wood structures
• Add weathering details with powders and decals

Lighting Innovations

• Incorporate LED, fiber optic, or miniature light bulb techniques
• Use lighting to highlight specific layout features
• Create atmospheric effects like sunset or nighttime scenes

See Woodland Scenics for lighting videos

Advanced Detailing

• Use stippling painting technique for realistic rock textures
• Mix paint colors to create natural-looking variations
• Embed ground cover directly into paint for seamless integration

Pro Tip: Experiment fearlessly and remember that scenery is an artistic endeavor—nothing can’t be repaired or redone!

Woodland Scenics has videos for all topics on their products, I highly reccomend them.

Citations:
[1] https://www.trains.com/mrr/how-to/expert-tips/what-is-a-good-way-to-begin-adding-scenery-to-my-layout/
[2] https://www.nmra.org/beginners-guide-part-6-scenery
[3] https://www.modelrailforum.com/threads/how-to-create-realistic-scenery-for-my-model-railroad-layout.56504/
[4] https://modelrailroadforums.com/forum/index.php
[5] https://www.modeltrainforum.com/threads/ho-scenery-ideas.18780/
[6] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_JTW8s6Mutw
[7] https://www.reddit.com/r/modeltrains/comments/x7mpn4/anyone_know_what_i_should_add_to_my_layout_i_am/