Actually, I don't think you need or want the rope. As I understand it, that style of fire escape is designed to drop from the weight of a person climbing down. They are deliberately kept out of reach to discourage people from climbing on them.
I think it looks great as it is.
--Pete
I agree with Pete. The fire escape looks great as is. No rope needed. In fact the whole building is taking on a terrific look as you progress. As far as the rust idea on the fire escapes, I generally do what Harry's does, spray black and then a light misting of rust. You don't need an airbrush, you can do it with spray cans. The Wal-Mart cans are good for this as the spray is very fine with little pigment. They have flat black, primer gray and primer rust colors. They're about $1.00 each. If you use this technique, when you spray the rust, do it from a distance of 12-18" so you get a very light mist.
Another trick is after the black sub-coat dries, use a fine spray bottle and mist with water. Then immediately spray with the rust. You'll get a random rust effect after it dries.
Harry's idea of the baking soda is great for a really textured rust effect. If you have any rust powder color, you can get a similar effect by lightly dipping your brush into some water, then into some rust powder, then apply by dabbing, not brushing it on places where metal parts meet, like the railings and the stair supports.
Great job so far, Kenny.
Jerrman
