G-scale model scenery - BT Phonebox K8 version - very suitable for GN15

FAQ – Product FAQs

G-Scale K8 Phone Box – Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is included with this G-scale K8 phone box?

Your order includes one K8 phone box, one telephone, one shelf, one plinth, and three pieces of clear PETG for you to cut to size for the “glass” panels. The listing is for four resin-printed pieces in grey, supplied unassembled (if needed), unprimed, and unpainted.

What scale and style is this phone box?

This is a G-scale model of the K8 phone box, the more modern style introduced from the 1970s onwards. It is ideal for contemporary layouts and works very nicely on GN-15 layouts as well.

Is the model ready to place straight on my layout?

The parts arrive cleaned, cured, and with supports removed, but they are supplied unassembled (if needed), unprimed, and unpainted. You will need to assemble the parts, prime, paint, and fit the PETG “glass” before placing it on your layout or diorama.

What material is the phone box made from?

The phone box and its parts are resin printed in grey. The “glass” is supplied as three clear PETG pieces for you to cut to size and fit yourself.

Is the figure shown in some photos included?

No, figures are not included. Any figure shown is just for illustration and “has to work in the workshop,” so you will need to provide your own figures if you want people around the phone box.

Is this suitable for beginners to model building?

Yes, it is suitable for anyone comfortable with basic model assembly and painting. Some light sanding may be required to smooth any remaining support marks, and you will need to cut and fit the PETG, but no advanced scratch-building is needed.

Can I use this phone box on non-railway dioramas?

Absolutely. While designed with model railways in mind, the K8 phone box is a great scenic piece for any diorama or miniature scene that needs a British-style phone box from the 1970s onwards.

How contemporary is the K8 compared to the older K6 box?

The K8 is a later design than the classic K6, used from the 1970s onwards. It suits more modern or contemporary layouts, town scenes, and updated rural locations where the older K6 might feel a bit too “heritage.”

Are the parts pre-primed or painted?

No, all parts come unprimed and unpainted. They are cleaned, cured, and have supports removed, leaving you free to choose your own primer and paint colours to match your layout.

Will I need to do any sanding or cleanup?

Support marks are carefully removed by hand, but some fine sanding may still be required to get the finish exactly how you want it. A light pass with fine-grit sanding sticks or paper is usually all that is needed.

Is the PETG “glass” pre-cut?

No, you receive three pieces of clear PETG that you cut to size yourself. This lets you fit the “glass” precisely and choose whether to model it pristine, slightly scratched, or weathered to suit your scene.

What should I do if my model arrives damaged in the post?

If your phone box arrives broken from shipping, please take clear photos of the damage and packaging and get in touch. While we cannot be responsible for breakages after delivery, we will always see what we can do to help if the damage occurred in transit.

What if I accidentally break a part after it arrives?

Resin can be quite delicate, so it is important to avoid dropping the parts or applying too much pressure. We cannot be held responsible for breakages once the item has arrived safely, but minor breaks can often be repaired with suitable model glue and a steady hand.

The parts don’t seem to fit together perfectly. What can I do?

If a joint feels tight or slightly misaligned, first check for any small bits of cured resin or support remnants. Lightly sand the mating surfaces and test fit again. Resin can vary slightly, so a little careful trimming or sanding is normal in model building.

The surface looks a bit rough in places. How do I improve it?

Use fine-grit sanding sticks or paper to gently smooth any rough areas or visible support marks. Work slowly and check your progress often. Once you are happy with the surface, wash the parts lightly to remove dust before priming.

My clear PETG looks scratched or cloudy. Can I fix it?

Minor scratches can often be reduced by gently polishing with very fine abrasive pads and then cleaning the surface. You can also weather the “glass” intentionally to represent an older box, which can turn slight imperfections into realistic detail.

The resin feels a bit flexible. Is that normal?

Some thin resin parts can have a slight flex, especially before assembly. Once the parts are glued together and fixed to the plinth or base, the structure becomes more rigid. Avoid bending parts unnecessarily, as repeated flexing can cause damage.

What glue should I use to assemble the resin parts?

Use a glue suitable for resin miniatures, such as cyanoacrylate (super glue). Apply sparingly and test fit before gluing. For the PETG “glass,” use a clear-drying adhesive that will not fog the plastic; apply it carefully around the edges only.

How do I attach the telephone, shelf, and plinth?

Dry fit each part first to understand their positions. Then apply a small amount of glue to the contact points and hold in place until the bond forms. It is often easier to paint these smaller parts separately and glue them in after painting, if you prefer.

Do I need to wash the parts before priming?

The parts are already cleaned and cured by hand, but many modellers still like to give resin parts a quick wash in mild soapy water and let them dry fully. This helps ensure the primer adheres well, especially if you have handled the parts a lot.

What kind of primer and paint should I use?

Use a primer suitable for resin models, applied in light coats. Once primed, you can use your preferred model paints (acrylics are popular) to finish the phone box, interior details, and plinth. Always follow the paint manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Any tips for painting and weathering the phone box?

Build up colour in thin layers rather than one heavy coat. Pick out details like the telephone and shelf with a fine brush. If you enjoy weathering, subtle dry-brushing, washes, and a little grime around the base can really bring the K8 to life and help it blend into your layout.