Early on, we experimented with diaramas in order to learn how to model scenery. Here, a base coat of thick latex paint goes on the foam.

And later it turns into ballasted track, rudimentary greenery, and a dirt road made of real (but very fine) dirt.

A significantly more advanced version followed some months later.

The real scenery work on the layout is yet to be done, pending the completion of the track. Stay tuned!