Guides / How to Read Part Numbers on Dark-Stained Wood
How to Read Part Numbers on Dark-Stained Wood
Engraved part numbers on dark boards are the most common complaint about wooden kits. Four tricks that work.
Use raking light, not more light
Hold a phone torch almost parallel to the board, at maybe 15 degrees. The engraving is a shallow groove, and side light turns it into a hard shadow. Straight-on light washes it out completely.
Photograph and invert
Take a photo straight down, then invert the colours. Dark engraving on a dark board becomes light-on-dark and the numbers pop. This works on almost every phone.
Chalk or pencil rub
Rub a soft pencil or white chalk across the area, then wipe the flat surface with your thumb. The pigment stays in the groove and nowhere else, and wipes off completely afterwards.
Build a numbering map first
Before punching anything out, photograph each sheet in order. When a part is in your hand and you cannot tell a 6 from an 8, compare it against the sheet photo instead of guessing.
Applies to: DIY Miniature House Kits · All kits
Kits for this job
Each kit links to its own page with the full specification.
