Ground Goop

Looking for an ideal ground base is not easy but I am happy with the technique that I found in a number of places online. Called "ground goop," this mix of ingredients forms a hard shell over whatever forms you choose to use. I used pink polystyrene but I am sure that almost anything could be used. I found the mixture very workable and a drywall knife worked great for both mixing and spreading. Using a wet finger occassionally was great for minor adjustments as well. 

After about 36 hours even the thickest areas were dry and it truly forms a tough shell. If you are not happy with the contours, the dried goop will readily accept additional applications over the top of it. I have been told that water will loosen the mixture with some work, but I have no desire to find out...
























Finding the right base color is important, even when you plan to add scenery over it eventually. The color will show through where scenery wears off on the surface, where there isn't enough coverage, or if the surface is pierced or dented by anything. Behr "Underground" is pretty close to the dirt color found in Kandiyohi County, Minnesota. While I could have chosen something even darker, I like the dry soil look vs. a darker, wet look.

Below I have posted the ingredients that I have used for my modules, although this is by no means the only way to do this.

LIST OF INGREDIENTS:

• 32 oz. Vermiculite - Can be found at Home Depot.
• A finer vermiculite would probably be better but I use what's readily available year round and this is the only variety at the Home Depot that I was able to find in stock.
• 32 oz. part Celluclay -  Can be found at Michaels.
• The amount of glue used is flexible 
• Mix with small amount of water to your desired consistency.
• Oatmeal consistency works well.
• 8 oz. Paint #N200-7 Behr "Underground" -  Can be found at Home Depot
• 24 oz. Elmer’s White Glue -  Can be found anywhere.