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Author Topic: Tree roots for scale trees  (Read 994 times)

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Joetrain59

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Tree roots for scale trees
« on: May 31, 2015, 01:02:38 AM »
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I believe this is fairly common, using real roots to model dead trees, and fallen trees/limbs. While working on what's become a PITA backyard project, gathered some nice Maple tree roots.
 (as an aside, to paraphrase John Wayne from The Quiet Man, "now I know why there are so many rock walls in CT.") :(
 But is there any special treatment needed to preserve the roots? They will also make great source to add foliage. Nothing like Nature to imitate Nature. And a lot less expensive.
 Thanks,
 Joe D
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nscaleSPF2

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Re: Tree roots for scale trees
« Reply #1 on: May 31, 2015, 08:48:02 AM »
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Talked with my local florist about this.  She suggested soaking the roots in a solution of water and glycerine (available from your drug store) to prevent them from getting brittle.  Haven't tried this, though.
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Jim Hale

Trying to re-create a part of south-central Pennsylvania in 1956, one small bit at a time.

peteski

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Re: Tree roots for scale trees
« Reply #2 on: May 31, 2015, 11:15:54 AM »
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Quote from: nscaleSPF2 on May 31, 2015, 08:48:02 AM
Talked with my local florist about this.  She suggested soaking the roots in a solution of water and glycerine (available from your drug store) to prevent them from getting brittle.  Haven't tried this, though.

That is how lichen is preserved and made to stay soft.  But would softening the armature of a tree be desired?  Shouldn't those be rather stiff?
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Doc Frankenfield

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Re: Tree roots for scale trees
« Reply #3 on: May 31, 2015, 01:51:37 PM »
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I soak my natural armatures in matte medium or colored latex.
work pretty well.
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Alaska Railroader

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Re: Tree roots for scale trees
« Reply #4 on: May 31, 2015, 03:27:30 PM »
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Quote from: peteski on May 31, 2015, 11:15:54 AM
That is how lichen is preserved and made to stay soft.  But would softening the armature of a tree be desired?  Shouldn't those be rather stiff?

I concur, you want dried stiff. And glycerin probably wouldn't allow paint or glue to stick.
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Joetrain59

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Re: Tree roots for scale trees
« Reply #5 on: May 31, 2015, 07:34:48 PM »
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All I've done so far is rinse them off, after letting them dry outside for a day. Then dried them in toaster oven on defrost for JUST a few minutes, keeping an eye on them.
They do seem to be fairly 2 dimensional, so I might try the glycerin/water treatment on one. Have plenty more I'll be digging up I'm sure.
 Thanks for reply guys.
 Joe D
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