New Year New Project? Five Scalescenes Builds to Get Stuck Into This January

There’s something about January that makes it a good time to start a fresh modelling project. The rush of Christmas is behind us, the days are still short, and a bit of time at the workbench can be just the thing to ease into the new year. If you’re looking for a satisfying build to get your teeth into, Scalescenes have plenty of excellent kits to choose from, and we’ve got the laser‑cut card parts ready to help you get started.

As always, Scalescenes kits need to be purchased and downloaded directly from the Scalescenes website at: https://scalescenes.com/ and the matching laser‑cut card parts can be ordered from us here at ChrisInDen. With that said, here are five meaty projects that make ideal January builds.

1. Build a Complete Layout in a Box File

If you fancy a self‑contained project or you’re just getting started in the hobby the Scalescenes Industrial Box File Kit LY01 and Canal Wharf Box File Kit LY02 are hard to beat. It’s remarkable what you can create inside an ordinary office box file - a fully detailed micro‑layout with buildings, scenery, and plenty of character with opportunity to showcase a variety of model-making skills.

These kits are particularly good for beginners because they don’t require a large layout or a lot of space. Everything is designed to fit neatly inside the box, and the end result is surprisingly impressive. Its a great standalone model so if you need something compact and easy to transport to shows or your local modelling club then these kits are perfect.

The laser‑cut parts make the build more straightforward and help ensure everything fits together cleanly, ideal if you’re easing back into modelling after the Christmas break. Don't forget we do a laser-cut window set for the canal wharf kit as well!

2. Create a Full Industrial Diorama

For something with a bit more heft, the Scalescenes industrial range offers a brilliant opportunity to build a complete scene. Kits like the Industrial Warehouse T024a, Industrial Boiler House T024b, Industrial Workshop T024c, Industrial Water Tower T024d and Industrial Chimney T026b can be combined to create a convincing industrial district on your layout.

This is a great project if you enjoy detailed model-making and want the accuracy and finesse of Scalescenes textures. Each building has its own character, and when you put them together you get a scene that feels lived‑in and purposeful, the sort of place where you can almost hear the machinery humming!

It’s also a flexible project. You can build the whole lot as a single diorama, or add the structures to different parts of your layout over time. Either way, it’s a rewarding winter build with plenty of scope for weathering, detailing, and personal touches.

3. Make a Stunning Centrepiece with the T014 Church Kit

If you’re after a big, detailed kit to settle into during the darker evenings, the T014 Church is a lovely choice. It’s one of Scalescenes’ more substantial builds, and the finished model makes a beautiful focal point on any layout.

The church works well as a standalone display model too. There’s a lot of satisfaction in seeing the tower, buttresses, and stonework come together, and the detailing gives you plenty to get stuck into. It’s the sort of project you can take your time with, ideal for January, when a slower, more absorbing build can be just what you need.

Our laser‑cut card pack takes care of the fiddlier structural elements and all of those curved cuts, leaving you free to enjoy the craft of assembling and finishing the model.

4. Build a Vibrant Street Scene

If you prefer something with variety, Scalescenes’ range of house and shop buildings offers endless possibilities. You can mix and match different kits (such as the T022a Terraced Houses, the T008 and T008a low relief house fronts and backs, the T022c Corner Shops, T013a 1970's Semi-detached houses) to create a lively street scene full of character, just add the people!

This kind of project is great fun because you can build it up gradually. Add a row of houses one weekend, a pub the next, then start filling in the details: signage, chimneys, street furniture. Before you know it, you’ve got a whole neighbourhood taking shape.

It’s also a good way to experiment with different finishes and weathering styles. A street scene gives you plenty of scope to try new techniques without committing to a single large structure. And if you need some finishing touches look out for our 3D printed chimney sets coming soon!

5. Tackle a Satisfying Maritime Build with the Clyde Puffer

For something a bit different, the Clyde Puffer T030b kit is a cracking project. It’s a substantial build in its own right, with plenty of detail to enjoy, and the finished model has real presence.

You can display it on its own, but it also works beautifully as part of a dockside scene. Pair it with Scalescenes kits like the Dock Edge T016 or Fishing Boats T030a/T030d, and add a few of our 3D‑printed details like life buoys or our Clyde Puffer features and you’ve got the makings of a busy little harbour.

It’s a great winter project: absorbing, a bit challenging in places, and very satisfying when you see it all come together.

Ready to Start Your First Project of the Year?

Whether you’re building a tiny layout in a box file or tackling a full industrial scene, January is a brilliant time to begin something new. All Scalescenes kits can be downloaded directly from the Scalescenes website at https://scalescenes.com/ and you’ll find the matching laser‑cut card parts here at ChrisInDen.

If you do start a new project this month, we’d love to see how you get on so feel free to share your progress with us. It’s always a pleasure to see these kits brought to life.