Greeley's Place
I really enjoyed this model. The model is well packaged, and the laser cut pieces are accurately done ensuring a build with no significant problems. You do have to follow the directions, and particularly the build order. Lots of nice options on the build as well... the battens are optional (I used them as it gave the cabin some depth) and there is a choice of roofing material - metal or tar paper. Both roofing options would look great, but I chose the metal as I think it looks better weathered. The finished model will be used for a mountain hermit scene on my first layout. Will be matched with the Smokehouse and Chicken Coop kits from Woodland Scenics.
You have to be patient with this model, as there is a bit of custom snipping to do particularly if you want to use the battens. The chair for the porch comes in 5 separate pieces that you have to be very careful with. Take the appropriate care and this won't be a problem.
All in all... just the motivation I need to really get to work on the rest of the layout!
A Little Jewel for Layouts
I enjoy this type of building as the wood and other parts are well detailed. I followed the instruction sheet to the letter as the steps need to be followed to the letter. The instructions had many weathering tips included, including the use of hazardous chemicals which I would avoid completely as there are non-hazardous ways to weather metal and wood. Personally thinking these instructions have no place in the hands of anyone who might attempt the weathering by chemicals. For instance, rust can be simulated with various acrylic paints. I used a wood bonding white glue designed for balsa wood as I had used the same glue in model rocketry, and highly recommend it. I used a toothpick to sparingly apply the glue as too much will look bad. The glue works to secure the metal parts as well. I highly recommend this kit to experienced modelers who have wood building down to a fine art, as the room for errors does not exist. The kit offers endless possibilities for placement in a forest area, on a mountain top or just about anywhere along with accessory sets of animals or people.
Enjoying BTS Kits in HO
I am new to wood kits in general. Really enjoy the ones from B.T.S. I started out with Junior Shiner then Greeley's place and I am now building the 2nd Street House kit. In general I like these kits because the instructions are easy to follow and consistent from kit to kit. I have made some beginner mistakes but in most cases I was able to substitute or fix a part. In Greely's Place I struggle somewhat in putting on the porch. As I build the 2nd Street kit I am using my expierence with the prior kits and taking my time. I really like the numbering system they use and the list of the items in the beginning section of the instructions.
Great Kits looking forward to purchasing my next model kit.