Porthmadog signal mans Hut with levers and glazing - OO9/OO/HO

A Ground based Signal Man hut inspired by the Porthmadog hut.

This building takes its inspiration from a similar hut that used to be at Porthmadog and which has since been moved to Minninford. The footprint of this model is 31mm x 23mm x 37mm high. This unique structure captures the essence of the ground based signalman's huts that have adorned railway networks of yesteryear to rest and shelter in whilst controlling the points nearby. An external ground frame is also included

This kit comes with a separate roof, glazing, lever frame and flooring to be placed inside.

When painted, this is a nice addition to any layout. It can be painted with normal car primer and acrylic paints.

The model is shipped from stock and is ready to paint. This listing is for three resin printed pieces and glazing. The pictures showing it painted are for examples only and are not included.

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.

Remember, the delicacy of resin calls for gentle handling. Though we can't be responsible for accidents after delivery, we're here to assist if any mishaps occur during transit. Just provide us with images, and we'll explore ways to lend a helping hand.

Embrace the charm of railway history with our Ground Frame Hut – a tribute to the enchanting architecture that shaped the past and now enriches your model railway universe.

FAQ – Product FAQs

Ground Based Signal Man Hut – FAQ

What exactly is this model?

This is a resin-printed ground based Signal Man hut inspired by the prototype that once stood at Porthmadog and is now at Minninford. It represents a small lineside shelter used by signalmen to rest and operate nearby points, and it includes an external ground frame for added operational detail on your layout.

What are the dimensions of the hut?

The footprint of the model is approximately 31mm x 23mm, and it stands about 37mm high. This makes it a compact lineside structure that fits well on most layouts without dominating the scene.

What parts are included in the kit?

The listing is for three resin printed pieces plus glazing. The kit includes a separate roof, glazing, a lever frame and flooring to be placed inside. All parts are supplied unassembled (if needed), unprimed and unpainted, with all supports removed.

Is the model ready to use straight out of the box?

The model is shipped from stock and is ready for you to prime, paint and assemble. It is not supplied pre-painted or fully assembled. The painted examples in the photos are for illustration only and are not included.

What material is the hut made from?

The hut and its components are resin printed. Each item is cleaned and cured by hand, and support marks are carefully removed, although a little fine sanding may still be required before painting.

Is this suitable for any particular scale or era?

The hut is based on a real ground frame hut from the classic railway era, making it ideal for layouts inspired by traditional British railways. The compact dimensions allow it to blend into a variety of scales and eras where a small lineside signalman’s hut would be appropriate.

What should I do if there are visible support marks or slight surface imperfections?

Although support marks are carefully removed during finishing, some fine sanding may still be needed. Use fine-grit sandpaper or sanding sticks and work gently on the affected areas. Clean off any dust before priming to ensure a smooth painted finish.

The parts do not seem to fit together perfectly. How can I improve the fit?

Dry-fit all pieces before gluing. If you notice tight spots or slight misalignment, lightly sand the mating surfaces and test again. Resin can be very precise but may benefit from a touch of fettling. Take your time, and only remove a small amount of material at a time.

My glazing pieces are not sitting correctly in the openings. Any tips?

Check that the window openings are free of any tiny resin nibs or flash. Carefully trim any residue with a sharp hobby knife and test-fit the glazing. You can use a small amount of clear-drying adhesive to secure the glazing once you are happy with the fit.

One of the resin parts arrived warped or slightly bent. What can I do?

If a part appears slightly warped, you can often correct it by gently warming it in lukewarm (not boiling) water, carefully straightening it, and then holding it in the desired position while it cools. Always handle resin gently to avoid cracking or snapping thinner sections.

A piece was damaged in transit. Can it be replaced?

If you suspect damage during delivery, take clear photos of the affected parts and the packaging. Contact the seller with these images so they can explore options to help, which may include repair advice or replacement, depending on the situation.

How fragile is the resin, and how should I handle it?

Resin is delicate and benefits from gentle handling, especially around thin details like the lever frame and edges of the hut. Avoid dropping the model or applying twisting forces. When working on it, support the parts with your fingers or a soft surface to reduce stress on the resin.

How should I assemble the hut and its components?

Start by dry-fitting all parts, including the floor, walls, lever frame and separate roof. Once satisfied with the fit, use a suitable plastic or cyanoacrylate (super) glue to fix the pieces together. Leave the roof and glazing until later in the build so you can paint the interior more easily if desired.

What paints and primers can I use?

The model can be painted with normal car primer and acrylic paints. Apply a light coat of primer first to help paint adhesion, then build up colour with thin layers of acrylics. This approach helps preserve the fine surface detail of the resin.

Do I need to do any preparation before priming?

Yes. Inspect the parts for any remaining support marks or slight roughness and gently sand where needed. Then wash the pieces in mild soapy water, rinse well and allow them to dry completely. This removes any remaining residue and gives the primer a clean surface to grip.

How can I achieve a realistic finish for the hut?

After priming, use muted, prototypical colours for the walls, roof and doors. You can add light weathering with washes and dry-brushing to suggest age, soot and grime. Picking out the lever frame and interior details in contrasting colours helps bring the hut to life on your layout.

When should I install the glazing?

It is easiest to paint and weather the hut first, then add the glazing at the end. This avoids fogging or marking the clear parts. Use a clear-drying adhesive sparingly around the edges of the window openings and press the glazing gently into place.

Any tips for protecting the finished model on the layout?

Once painted and fully dry, you can apply a clear matt or satin varnish to protect the finish. When placing the hut on your layout, position it in a spot where it is unlikely to be knocked, such as slightly back from the baseboard edge, and handle it by the sturdier sections rather than thin details.