Resurrecting an old post discussion [2004?!], "thomaso827" submitted [in portion] the following:

"I think this is going to be one of those simple but time-consuming projects I will have to try out. For example, some of the stucco walls seem to have cracks or broken stucco revealing a wood or brick surface below, and it would be interesting to use an embossing tool to outline the area, then go back in and trace the brick pattern, making it feel as real as it looks."

[Yes, I get mid-morning 2am insomnia and Forum Surf...]

Anyway, the Creation Subroutine kicked in and I wondered if anyone has used a dual-layer wall utilizing the wood or brick background with a cut-up stucco (or re-colored cement?) wall pasted over the top to simulate the deteriorated cover surface.

Also, I thought that the extra cardstock layer would give that little subconcious piece of the brain's visual processing center a hint of 3D effect - especially if you did *not* edge the stucco cover layer portion (unless you went with a 'colored' stucco [such as grey - pick your poison] and then you *would* want to edge the stucco overlay in that color). Extra cut-and-paste work, I know, but maybe for the added realism...

Just thinking... Something I want to try with a future build.

3D and 2.5D effects are always something that intrigue me. I love when I see other people do them. I personally haven't kitbashed something like this before due to the thought of once I do it, I will want to go back and alter ALL of my current terrain as well as future terrain. I already have minimal build time, personally. I am thinking of doing a few specific minor 3D effects, though. (the fountain in Streets, for instance.)

Yes, I had thoughts on that fountain as well, like cutting it out and mounting it atop a circular piece of foamcore, wrapping a length of paper stonework around the outside edge...

Which brings up a different project I'm currently developing. I've liked (for some wierd reason) the idea of what I call "plaza steppes" where, instead of stairs, different heights are built-up of successive layers of foamcore - kind of like the wide slabs of half-foot-tall 'walking steps' in some downtown areas...
This in turn has led to the idea of a ziggurat where these 'plaza steppes' wrap around (and around and around) the exterior of the slowly narrowing tower to the tip-top - inspired visions of by the dancing Central American native Indians in a slow upward procession. I did some measuring and checking and came up with 11 layers of foamcore (mine) per TLX layer. Using a square masterboard of 18-inches (and allowing for the outside inch to be just 'ground') there could be 220 'steppes' until you got to a 6x6 platform at the top... that top platform would actually be level #21 (!)
Yikes, such a massive build in a small place! I played with some variations of the standard TLX sizes for rooms as the tower progressed upwards (actually, I started at the top and went down). Still making concept decisions as to whetehr straight TLX or Chunky Dungeon style (or combination) for the build... but I know I want to use the new/rereleased Ebbles Shahad Ziggurat stonework for the outside skin.

Sorry to temp all your tastebuds, but this will be quite a while for development and build. Don't llok for any pics anytime soon. This may have to be cutback to using only a 12" masterboard base instead.