Adding earth

One fun part of creating a new section of LAX is the addition of infield land areas. The areas between the runways and taxiways at LAX are a mix of dirt, grass, and light scrub brush. I've found a relatively simple way of replicating this using actual dirt and some basic Elmer's white glue. Some fake grass or similar from model train scenery really looks good too. First I paint the area to be filled in with a dirt like tone. Next Ill take some white glue (wood glue works well too) and thin it out with water. I've found that a thin mixture works better than straight white glue. Brush it on everywhere you want dirt to stick. Next take your dirt and pour liberally over the glue section. Press down firmly and then sweep the excess away gently. I like to run my hands along and cause different areas to appear slightly different. This will help make it look a little more natural and not so filled in. I typically will let it dry overnight before adding any grass. For that Ill take my thinned out glue mixture and dab it on where needed. Then take the grass and sprinkle it on the glue. Press down and sweep away the excess. Lots of tips and tricks can be gathered from the model railroad community by searching google.

Earth tones painted prior to glue

Glue being brushed on

Adding dirt that actually came from LAX

After sweeping away the excess dirt

While the glue was still wet I made a service road with my finger