I have noticed that operations signs are often overlooked in a model railroad. They are invaluable as warnings and directions for safe and smooth operations. These signs also assist the operator in performing consistent and realistic running of trains. For example, the most common form of sign is the ‘W’ for whistle that would indicate when to blow the whistle and what type of signal to give. Just look at photographs and you’ll see a sign somewhere along the tracks. These signs become more frequent as the tracks enter a more congested area.

I have found two very good sources of sign information, one being in the Narrow Gauge & Shortline Gazette, September/October, 1983, written by Dick Steele. The other published in the N.M.R.A. Bulletin back in September 1976 from the collection of Mark D. Swerdfeger. The Bulletin has had several excellent articles over the years on the D&RGW, both standard and narrow gauge. The article I refer to in the Bulletin may not have been completely Narrow Gauge, but I leave that decision to you.

I fabricated metal signs from brass sheet and preweathered code 40 rail from Rail Craft. I cut the required number of sign boards from the sheet stock according to the size specified. I clipped the corners at 45° where required, and filed the pieces smooth. I cut the rail to length, adding an additional 1/2" for installation and filed the back of the rail to remove the finish and pretinned it. I then laid the rail down flat on the sign plate, centred it and tacked it in place with a resistance soldering iron. After washing the flux off the sign, I painted the front. Many of these sign faces were painted in a reflective type of paint. To create this effect, I used Floquil "White", a small touch of "Silver" to give it a little reflective quality and a few drops of "Glaze". The faces then received two coats of paint with an airbrush and allowed to dry for a few hours.

The symbols were mostly black Letraset, while others, like the clearance warnings and property signs, came from Thinfilm Decals. The backs of the signs were painted black using "Grimy Black" and about 20% "Roof Brown". The rail can also be painted the same colour. I applied weathering, such as rust and streaking, wiping down the face of the sign with a dry brush technique. I dipped a torn piece of plastic foam sponge lightly into the rust and then gently tapped on the rail to create rust breaking through the paint.

I installed the signs into a predrilled hole approximately 15’ from the track centers using the prototype information as a location guide. I gave the signs a slight tilt according to the slope of the grade. I distributed a few stones around the bases and planted grasses with white glue at the bases also. This gave the appearance of the signs having been there for some time.

Signs are perhaps one of the simplest things to fabricate. Add some to your layout to give a sense of detail, interest and visual dimension to the railroad.

... Lex A. Parker, MMR

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