@Paul Kallus posted:All nice results, above.
I got in touch with the makers of the stuff and they said they're going to test the most recent batch, although I don't know what batch mine came from as it was sold by a distributing hobby shop (whom I haven't been able to get a hold of). And, unlike past bottles, there's no batch numbers on this recent bottle. Hopefully, I can get another bottle of the stuff directly from the supplier, and no middle man.
As I mentioned, I've been using this stuff for many years now...have probably done 25 buildings with it, some shown below. Last evening, I spent close to 2 hours trying to get two walls done, with pathetic results. If the batch had been like previous bottles, I would have gotten done 2 buildings in that amount of time.
I sometimes cannot comprehend the problems I encounter with products in this hobby - whether it be a new engine that doesn't work right, getting something repaired, or something simple like this. I suppose if I was retired and had time to devote to it then it'd would be another matter. As it is, I can barely get anything done on the layout or find time to run trains. Nevertheless, I am grateful that I am still working and have a job that enables me to be in this hobby.
Honestly, I really would have to forewarn anyone who wanted to get into the hobby to be prepared for loads of frustration and challenges. The amount of time it takes to get anything accomplished is the kicker...and as I get older it seems like everything, even simple jobs, takes longer.
I am far from artistic, and applying mortar to the brick walls and sometimes a light india ink alcohol mix to the roof and sidewalks is the extent of my weathering skills; and frankly, that is enough for my taste. I simply like the effect of mortar - which takes an otherwise attractive yet very new plastic-looking building and gives it an element of toy-train "neatness."
Hah ! As someone who got back into the hobby about five years ago, after about a 50 year absence, in order to build a small layout for my grandkids and then got bitten by the bug, I find myself constantly commiserating with my train friends about the fact that the percentage of train products one can purchase that don't require some form of modification, change, kitbashing, alteration, repair, transformation or re-working is rather miniscule.
Although not retired, I'm glad I have the time and skills to be able to wade through these challenges and be able to enjoy the hobby for what it is, but I can certainly understand how anybody just getting into the hobby could easily become frustrated.
