Model Making Static Grass

Static grass is made from lots of small fibres, usually nylon and polyester. They are charged with static electricity to make them stand upright just like real grass add a 3d effect to grassed areas on model layouts. Static grass is usually made in different sizes so it can be used on different scales or in different environments such as a grass lawn cut shortly or longer tufts replicating a field in a farm.

The track is laid, the trains are running and now is the time you want to start adding some realism and scenery to the layout. One of the most popular ways is using a static grass applicator to add tufts and realistic looking greenery around the track. Adding static grass can be a quick and easy way to really make your scenery come to life.

There are a few techniques which can be used when applying static grass to a base board or model and each depend on what the scene will look like. The simplest and cheapest method to apply and make the static grass stand up is as follows. Firstly, spread some glue in the area you wish to cover, super glue or PVA is best here. Next sprinkle a light covering of the static grass mix over the glue. It is recommended that when spreading the fibres to do it over a sheet or box, so the excess fibres don’t cover everything else.

Next turn the board with the static grass applied upside down and give it some light taps. This should make all the fibres stand on end. Another simple and cheap method to get the static grass standing upright is to follow the above method but rather than tap, hold a balloon that has been rubbed against a jumper or cloth just above the grass. The static should lift the fibres upright.

These methods are great if you are modelling a small removeable board from the layout. For larger areas it is recommended to use a proper applicator which will make the job easier and quicker.

There are several static grass applicators for different budgets available now. We would recommend using one from a reputable brand such as WWS. They really do make a difference in how the grass is spread and stands upright.

The applicator will have a small sieve, to be filled with the static grass. A cable usually with a crocodile clip on the end and an on/off button. Some of the sieves will only allow certain sizes of grass to fall through, so be sure you have one that matches the scale you wish to model in. The WWS Pro Grass Micro can use up to 6mm grass fibres. The set in the picture above includes everything you need to get started. The static grass applicator and a collection of different grass fibres.

1. Place a small nail into the baseboard where you wish to lay the grass.
2. Attach the crocodile clip to this nail.
3. Spread the glue around the area and then fill the sieve of the applicator halfway with your chosen grass.
4. Switch on the static grass applicator.
5. Hold the applicator between 2-6 cm’s from the area and slowly shake and move around the area with the glue.

To make small tufts of grass. Place a drop of glue. Take a very large pinch of grass fibres between your fingers. Press the clump of fibres lightly onto the drop of glue. As simple as that!