1:144 Workshop ladders

Workshop ladders in 1:144 scale

A diorama accessory from the Czech maker Brengun. Mobile ladders and steps belonged to the basic equipment of every aircraft workshop and apron: without them a mechanic could not reach the cabin, the engine or the upper surface of the wing. On a model scene they therefore fill two roles at once, they give a view scale and they explain what is going on in it. The package holds no kit of an aircraft.

Where the accessory suits

In airfield dioramas and vignettes in 1:144 scale, whether a military apron, a hangar or a civilian handling area. The ladders work well as a small prop in the workshop corner of a scene too, leaned against a wall or set aside. If you build models in a uniform scale and display them on a common surface, they will add action to the whole display case.

Assembly and painting

A structure of photo-etch calls for patience mainly at the bends. Cut the parts out on a hard surface, level the fret tabs and run the bends in a bender along the marked lines, so that the steps stay parallel and the ladder finally stands on all its feet. Before gluing, stand the assembly dry on a flat board and check the squareness, because a crooked ladder is conspicuous on a scene at first glance. Build the painting on a primer; metal structures tended to be in gray and olive shades, wooden steps in the natural tone of wood. At the end add scuffed places on the edges of the steps and light dust at the feet, so that the accessory blends with the base.

Who the accessory is for

• builders of airfield dioramas in 1:144 scale
• modelers who want to show the ground crew around an aircraft
• those interested in working with photo-etch and small structures
• collectors who display several models on a common surface

The accessory is supplied unassembled and unpainted. The kit, glue, paints and a base are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.