Dapol launches laser-cut card kits

In what is said to be a 'major investment in new equipment', Dapol has revealed new buildings to be manufactured at its site in Chirk for 7mm:1ft scale.

The initial new ranges include Midland, Great Western and Lynton & Barnstaple buildings and structures to complement existing products available in 7mm:1ft scale, in O and O-16.5 gauges.

Its first Midland range of buildings and platform building kits are said to be entering production soon, and the manufacturer anticipates that kits will arrive in shops between late summer and early autumn, 2023.

(7B-001-001) Midland Railway Station Building.

Dapol has a long-standing tradition of manufacturing self-assembly kits in the UK, and some of its Kitmaster tooling dates back to the late-1950s.

The manufacturer commented, "As part of [our] commitment to continue manufacturing as many products in the UK as possible, we are launching a new series of laser-cut card kits. This represents a major investment in new equipment to be used here in Chirk where the kits are designed and manufactured in-house."

A combination of the new platform kits.

The new range of models will be marketed under the brand name Kitmaster Genesis to pay homage to the old range of kits. The new items will be laser-cut from self-coloured card and will include all the necessary injection moulded or 3D-printed accessory parts, including glazing, to complete the model.

(7B-001-003) Midland Railway Small Signal Box.

Where appropriate, models will be supplied with printed interior decorations, requiring glue to complete. Kits are based on real world prototypes, but are said to be "easily customisable, lending themselves to 'kit bashing' should the modeller wish to have something truly bespoke on their layout." Each kit will have a set of detailed assembly instructions included.

(7B-001-004) Midland Railway Yard Office.

Dapol is also preparing a selection of other buildings for modellers to enjoy constructing which are said to be at the design phase. More information will be released as each project progresses.

To see the complete list of new announcements, visit the Dapol website, or see your local stockist.