any good ground texture tutorials?

[martinvk]

Are there any good tutorials explaining the finer points of applying ground textures?

Do you use multiple textures in the same area or mix them randomly over a larger area?
How do you chose which ones to use? Beyond the obvious grass, pavement, rock, etc.
Does the scale affect performance?
Are there ways to increase the realism effect?
How should riverbeds and lake bottoms be painted to add depth?

Since this is the more artistic side of Trainz, not my strong suit, any help would be appreciated. The track and scenery have been placed. Now I need to cover the yellow grid with something to make the route look good.

 

[bl4882]

You might try David Drake's site for tutorials on getting the most out of textures. You can find it here http://www.ttbwrr.com/

Bernie

 

[Stagefright]

Many, many thanks to David for his fine work with Treez, and a good tutorial...

but: Someone, somewhen, had a great tutorial on basic landscaping including discussions on shading & use of textures. Sadly, I believe it's long gone.

Admittedly, this is a creative side of Trainz but, like Martin, I don't possess the creative gene.

Also: I found a good river tutorial here.

Darrel

 

[steamaddict]

Not sure about tutorial, but I have found after much experimenting that if you color river and lake bottoms with a dark blue or dark green, it adds the depth you desire and also you can change the color of the water to a darker color so its not so transparent which also adds the illusion of depth.