The main material used in the construction of architectural models for Pendon Museum is cardboard. High-quality white card with a matt surface is used. Occasionally plaster and balsa wood will also be needed if the prototype requires it. Brick and stone courses are embossed into the card allowing for the adjustment of the brick bonds at the corners of the model. Study of the building in question should always inform the construction of the model.

When the building has been embossed a thin coat of mortar colour is applied using water colour paints. When this first coat has dried thoroughly each brick may be painted individually, again using water colour paints, matching the paints as closely as possible to the prototype.

Tiles and slates for the roof, if it is not thatched, are made from thin card and paper respectively. The tiles are cut in strips with vertical cuts made part way through the strip. As with bricks and stonework, water colour paints are used to colour. Thatch is produced using bundles of plumbers hemp glued to a card substructure.

More information on the Pendon modelling techniques outlined here is contained in information panels in the Museum and in the first of a series of Pendon Publications which is available from the Museum shop.