Building a Souk Table: Single-Storey MDF Terrain Tips

Quick answer

Assemble the Sarissa Precision Single-Storey Souk Building using PVA glue, then paint with a sandy basecoat and drybrush details to create a durable North African terrain piece.

Step-by-step assembly guide

1. Dry-fit all parts: Lay out the MDF sheets and test-fit each piece without glue. Check that tabs align with slots and that the roof sits flush. Common mistake: forcing a piece that doesn't fit. Sand edges gently if needed, but never trim slots.
2. Glue the walls and roof: Apply PVA glue to tabs and insert into slots. Assemble the four walls first, then attach the roof. Use masking tape to hold joints while drying. Checkpoint: ensure the roof is removable—do not glue it to the walls. Tape only the walls until set.
3. Seal the MDF: Apply a thin coat of undiluted PVA or a spray sealer to all exposed MDF edges. This prevents paint from soaking in unevenly. Common mistake: skipping sealer leads to raised grain and blotchy paint. Wait 30 minutes before painting.
4. Apply basecoat: Use a flat brush to paint the entire building with a sandy or stone-colored acrylic basecoat. Two thin coats are better than one thick layer. Checkpoint: let each coat dry fully before the next. A hairdryer on low speeds up the process.
5. Drybrush highlights and details: Load a dry brush with a lighter shade and lightly drag it over raised edges, window frames, and roof tiles. Add a wash for shadows if desired. Common mistake: using too much paint on the brush. Wipe most of it off on a paper towel first.
6. Finish with a matte varnish: Spray or brush a matte acrylic varnish over the entire model to protect paint and give a uniform finish. Checkpoint: test varnish on a spare piece first. Some brands yellow over time.

Product facts

• Single-Storey Souk Building - 20mm: Supplied unassembled and unpainted in kit form with full instructions. Dimensions W240 x D100 x H65mm (approx.). Removable roof. The removable roof allows you to stage interior scenes or place miniatures inside without damaging the structure.

  

• Stove Set (28mm): Versatile set of four stoves suitable from Napoleonic Wars to post-apocalyptic settings. Supplied unassembled and unpainted. Dimensions W45 x D25 x H15mm (approx.). Adding a painted stove set inside the souk creates a lived-in feel for campaign games or narrative scenarios.