When Ron gave me these DVD's to watch and review, I had no idea what I was in for. In this set are 4 DVD's, equaling 7 hours. It was almost information overload! In this package Darryl Huffman takes the viewer through a complete scratch build of an old-time miner's bar, from design and planning to final assembly and weathering.

First, let me tell you that Darryl is a first class modeler. His finished work is second to none and I  believe that anyone can learn a lot from these DVD's. I have been scratch building for a number of years and there were many tips and tricks that I picked up. I found the video was well produced, the picture always clear and the sound easy to listen to. Each disk is divided into chapters for ease in finding a relevant part later.

That being said, I would not recommend watching the entire production in one sitting. I watched it mostly 30 minutes to an hour at a time, since there is so much information given, and you can't possibly remember it all. I had a note pad beside me to jot down things that I found important while watching.

The structure that Darryl builds is in 'O' scale (or 1/4" scale) but the methods will work on almost any scale as I, an HO modeler, have found. Darryl begins his build with a basic design and includes a copy of the plan in the DVD case as well as a basic materials list (in O scale) and a framing sketch.  From there he builds the frame board by board using prototype techniques, paints, weathers and adds the siding, also board-by-board. Speaking of weathering, every part of construction has some form of weathering information in it, from the frame to the roof. Use of window castings is discussed, as well as using either commercial door castings or scratch building your own. This I used right away since I needed doors for a current project.

Several different roofing options are shown as well, from shingles to tar paper. Even signs and the weathering of them are covered.

I found the series very informative as long as you don't try to digest too much at a time. If you scratch build or are considering getting into it I would highly recommend this DVD. It is suitable for everyone from the beginner to the expert.

These  DVD's areavailable at http://www.darrylhuffman.50megs.com/