GN15 ,G scale WBC Beehive for Railway Layouts

This is a G-Scale model WBC Beehive to add a touch of authenticity to your layout or any miniature setting. Crafted with precision and attention to detail, this model Beehive is based on the WBC beehives popular from the very late 19th century onwards well up to the 50's and beyond. Even today recognizable as the classic beehive. This one has a brood box with two supers above and even a detailed vent in the roof box. It comes unpainted, but very easy to paint, the figure is NOT included, just shown for scale. 

Your order will come with the following : 
Beehive, 37mm x 28 mm x 42mm high 
This listing is for one unpainted resin printed piece in grey. Items shown painted are for reference only.

Finishing: All items are cleaned and cured by hand. They are unassembled (if needed). Ready for you to prime and paint. We do our very best to remove support marks but some fine sanding may be required. All pieces and parts come unprimed and unpainted with all supports removed. 

Please do bear in mind that resin can be quite delicate so try to avoid dropping your parts! Sadly, we can't be held responsible for breakages once your item has arrived. However, if the piece is broken in the post, please provide images and we'll see what we can do to help.

FAQ – Product FAQs

WBC Beehive G-Scale Model – FAQ

What exactly is this product?

This is a G-Scale model of a classic WBC beehive, resin printed in grey. It represents a brood box with two supers above and a detailed vent in the roof box. It is supplied as a single unpainted piece for use on model railway layouts or other miniature scenes.

What are the dimensions of the beehive?

The beehive measures approximately 37mm long x 28mm wide x 42mm high. This size is designed to look correct in G-Scale layouts and other similar large-scale miniature settings.

Is the figure in the photos included?

No, the figure shown in any images is not included. It is only shown for scale and inspiration. This listing is for one unpainted resin printed WBC beehive model only.

What material is the beehive made from?

The beehive is 3D printed in resin. All items are cleaned and cured by hand, with supports removed before shipping. Resin allows for crisp details such as the brood box, supers and roof vent.

Does the beehive come painted or primed?

The beehive comes unprimed and unpainted in grey resin. It is ready for you to prime and paint in your preferred colours to match your layout or diorama.

Is the model historically accurate?

The model is based on WBC beehives that were popular from the very late 19th century through the 1950s and beyond. Its overall shape and features are designed to capture the look of the classic, easily recognisable WBC hive.

How delicate is the resin model?

Resin can be quite delicate, especially at thinner points, so it is important to handle the beehive with care. Try to avoid dropping or bending it. Treat it like any other finely detailed model railway accessory.

Can this be used outdoors on a garden railway?

The model is suitable for garden railways if it is properly primed and painted, but like most resin pieces it will last longer if protected from constant direct sunlight and harsh weather. A good primer and topcoat will help protect the surface.

Is any assembly required?

This particular beehive is supplied as one resin printed piece, so no assembly is normally required. In general, our items are unassembled only when needed, but this hive is ready to prime and paint straight out of the box.

Can I order multiple beehives for a larger apiary scene?

Yes, you can order multiple pieces to create a small apiary or fill a farmyard scene. Each listing is for one beehive, so simply adjust the quantity to suit your layout.

What should I do if the beehive arrives damaged?

If the beehive is damaged in the post, please take clear photos of the damage and the packaging as soon as you notice it. Contact us with these images and we will see what we can do to help. We cannot be responsible for breakages that occur after safe delivery.

Are there any moving parts or removable sections?

No, the beehive is supplied as a single solid piece with no moving or removable parts. The brood box, supers and roof with vent are all modelled as one unit for strength and ease of use.

The surface looks slightly rough in places. Is that normal?

Minor surface marks from the 3D printing process can sometimes be visible. We do our very best to remove support marks, but a little fine sanding may still be required before priming and painting. This is normal for detailed resin prints.

What should I do if the model seems slightly warped or uneven?

A slight warp can occasionally happen with resin pieces. Try gently warming the part in lukewarm (not hot) water for a short time, then carefully easing it back into shape and holding it there while it cools. Always work slowly and avoid forcing the resin.

The beehive arrived with a small chip. Can I repair it?

Small chips or nicks can often be repaired using modelling putty or a similar hobby filler. Lightly sand the area, apply a tiny amount of filler, let it fully cure, then sand smooth and prime before painting.

Paint is not sticking well to the surface. How can I fix this?

If paint is beading or not adhering properly, try the following:

• Gently wash the model in warm, soapy water and let it dry completely.
• Use a good-quality primer designed for plastic or resin.
• Apply several thin coats rather than one thick coat.

Once properly primed, most hobby paints will adhere well.

There are faint lines from the printing process. How can I reduce them?

Layer lines are a normal part of 3D printing. To minimise them:

• Use very fine sandpaper or sanding sticks to smooth the affected areas.
• Apply a filler or high-build primer in thin coats, sanding between coats if needed.
• Focus on the most visible surfaces; some lines will disappear under paint and weathering.

How should I prepare the beehive before painting?

To get the best results:

• Inspect the model and lightly sand any remaining support marks or rough spots.
• Wash it in warm, soapy water to remove any dust or residue, then let it dry fully.
• Apply a suitable primer for resin or plastic models in thin, even coats.

What kind of paints work best on this resin beehive?

Most hobby acrylic paints work very well once the model is properly primed. Enamels can also be used if you are comfortable with them. Acrylics are usually easier to work with, especially for layering and weathering effects.

How can I paint the beehive to look realistic on my layout?

For a classic, realistic look:

• Choose muted, slightly weathered colours rather than bright, fresh tones.
• Dry-brush lighter shades on raised details to bring out edges and texture.
• Add subtle weathering powders or washes to suggest age, dirt and sun-fading.

Looking at photos of real WBC hives from your chosen era can help guide your colour choices.

Do I need to seal or varnish the painted model?

Sealing is recommended, especially for pieces that will be handled or used outdoors. Once the paint is fully dry, apply a clear matte, satin or gloss varnish (depending on your preferred finish) to protect the paintwork and make cleaning easier.

Can I modify or kitbash the beehive?

Yes, you can carefully cut, drill or add details to the resin if you wish to customise it. Work slowly with sharp tools, support the piece while cutting, and always test-fit any added parts before gluing. Custom paint schemes, signage or extra scenic details can really make it your own.