In my quest for a more “real” looking train world, I am always on the lookout for new products that can help. One of the continuing problems I have run across with my n-scale trains is the lack of window glazing on some of the rolling stock. Most notably, I find many of the cabooses come with no window glass. This makes them look “cheep” and very un-prototypical.

I have tried cutting and gluing in windows made from clear plastic, but boy is that a lot of work! Besides, by the time I finished I had glue all over the place. I needed something easier and faster. And low and behold, something comes along!

Just by chance, I was introduced to a great product called Micro Kristal Klear. This product is a white gooey substance that comes in a very small bottle found at your friendly local hobby shop. This stuff can be used to not only make windows, but also works great as a glue.

To use Micro Kristal Klear in making windows is a breeze. The hardest part of the entire procedure is believing this white goo will actually turn into a nice clear window! The application is simple and easy. All I use is a sharp toothpick.

Make sure your subject car is nice and clean. Dip your toothpick into the goo and collect a small amount on the tip. Move your toothpick around the edges of the window, drawing the goo along. Micro Kristal Klear has a great deal of surface tension, so just “pull” the goo around until you cover the entire area. I found there is a limit as to how large the opening can be and still get complete coverage. If you run into this situation, just lay down the first coating around the edges, let dry, and then come back with a second coating.

When applying Micro Kristal Klear, you don’t have to be overly careful about making a mess. I found that if you were “close”, things would end up looking just fine. After all, it does dry clear.

Another wonderful use for Micro Kristal Klear is as a glue. It isn’t nearly as strong as CA, but for some applications it works just fine. Sense it dries clear, and is VERY sticky, I find it works great for applying “little people” around my train world. Just dip their feet into the goo, set them in the place where you want them, and your done.