Q: I have two oval tracks, one inside the other, on a piece of 4 x 8 plywood. Just running a train around each track is boring. My funds are very limited. Do you have any suggestions as to how to make this more fun? — Elaine King A: Since space is at a premium […]
Q: I recall an article from a few years back that was about setting up a minimalist layout set on a bookshelf or board. It was intended as a quick and easy way to get started in the hobby, especially for those who don’t have a lot of space. I believe it used an NCE […]
While on a recent trip to the National Model Railroad Association’s Southeast Regional Convention in Decatur, Ala., I was fortunate enough to go on a trip to Huntsville’s International Intermodal Center. Right when our van arrived in the parking lot, I knew that this would be a perfect real-world industry that anyone can model on […]
Layout designer: William Holt Scale: S Layout size: 3.5 x 6 feet Track type: MTH S-Trax Minimum curve: R-19 curve Originally appeared in the November 2013 issue of Classic Toy Trains. An S gauge starter set oval with add-ons An S gauge starter set oval with add-ons schematic An S gauge starter set oval […]
Design a toy train layout — O, S, or Standard/Wide gauge — it requires above all making one fundamental decision. Each operator must decide what sort of look he or she wants the layout to have. To be specific, each modeler has to figure out the extent to which the layout, regardless of size or […]
In this concluding episode of the Hills Line series on Trains.com Video, host James McNab puts his HO scale module through the paces in a photo session designed to create stunning scenic vistas. Discover his clever lighting and composition techniques for bringing the expanse of the great outdoors into his basement – all to shape […]
Explore the transformation of the Hills Line Substation module as real-life elements are incorporated, turning it into a recognizable and authentic prototype location. Join James McNab on this episode as he adds signature elements, including a farm storage Quonset hut, a cornfield, and a chain-link fence. Learn about the meticulous process of detailing structures, weathering, […]
In this episode, Host James McNab details the process of scenery reconstruction for the Hills Line HO scale module. Beginning with the application of a base layer using static grass and ground foam, James shares techniques for adding rock, gravel, and dirt textures, along with planting grass scenery products, including trees and shrubs. Finally, he […]
Host James McNab explores methods for handlaying track on his portable HO scale Hills Line module, including spiking, using adhesive and pinning. He shares his experiences and challenges with each method, with the aim of helping viewers find the best approach for their own projects. This episode is a practical guide for model railroaders, offering […]
In this episode, Host James McNab embarks on a journey to elevate model railroading skills by exploring cutting-edge methods. Specifically featuring the use of Central Valley tie strips to build hand laid trackwork. With the objective of encouraging modelers to employ fresh techniques, James demonstrates the process on his portable HO scale Hills Line module, […]
The Hills Line host James McNab knows a good thing when he sees it! That’s why he’s eager to form the foundation for this portable HO scale layout using little more than foam insulation board commonly sold at home improvement stores. After crediting the pioneers of this technique, James shares how to work with this […]
Here are 5 small toy train engines in O and S gauges from several eras. This isn’t an all-inclusive list, but rather a way to call attention to these often overlooked little workhorses. Many of us have layouts that are under 100 square feet. It’s nice to have engines available that look great pulling trains […]
