Tent Project

I thought that this weekly blog would be about figures. However, one of the other ZBA's mentioned that he had a Rhodesian Project on the go. I remembered an article from long ago and necessitated a trawl through my 'OLD' mags. I came across the article but also came by a small project. So here it is.

For you youngsters out there. This was written in the days before personal computers.

On a typewriter, (an early word processor!) using pencil and paper (prehistoric design technology) for diagrams.

Equipment Needed



First Issue


The first issue I came across was the fact that the original dimensions were all in 'Imperial' (an ancient system of measurement, still widely, and successfully, used in the colonies, LOL). In a metric (European) world things just did not quite fit.

Metric Plans

'Failing to Plan is Planning to Fail'*. Oh how I wish I'd paid attention.

Cut Out & Glued

While that was sticking I went to phase two, 'The Roof'. I wanted a more flexible look then thick card.

Equipment Needed for Phase 2

H&S Point for all you kids out there: Never use sharp objects whilst under the influence of intoxicants. Please note a Zero percent and not a bad taste if you like 'Cobra' (Don't go for the Kaliber. It was out when this mag was published. It was gopping then and its gopping now!)

Wall Warping

Wall warping, PPPPPP, refer to the above *.This required the fitting of a 'ground sheet', remember to cut out the tab near to the door.

Roof On

I used kitchen roll coated in PVA glue. It sank in the right places but needs to dry hard.

Bigger & Better ?

Whilst awaiting I designed a bigger 'mess tent' as it's called in the original article, it reminds me of an old 8'x8' tent I used in the Forces. Maybe that's why it looks like it does.

And so the project ended for the night as I waited for the roofs to harden. Painting and basing remain.

In the mean time I cast a modellers eye over what I was throwing away and found these!

There has to be something that can be done with thin strips of balsa!!!!

PS how does one get the ZBA banner on their blogspot. It looks rather natty.

See you all soon.