I decided to use balsa wood and basswood as the base material for my N-scale models. ABOVE: This bridge will have simulated concrete abutments. Once this step was complete, I made a pattern out of cardstock that I used to transfer to the balsa wood. For concrete abutments, I used 3/32” and 3/16” thick balsa wood sheet and 1/32 x 1/16” basswood strip. The next step was to apply any remaining details and treat the balsa wood, with its coarse grain, so it would reasonably simulate concrete.