The N scale Red Oak model train layout features a backdrop that runs down its center. Learn how the Model Railroader staff uses model trees and other scenery to conceal openings in the backdrop. Model Railroader editor Neil Besougloff and associate editor Steve Otte will also show you how to use scenery along the backdrop seam to add the illusion of depth to a model railroad landscape.
Building the 3 x 7 Red Oak N scale model railroad part 6
By Angela Cotey | March 19, 2015
| Last updated on November 23, 2020
Adding scenery along the backdrop of the model train layout
David R Young from Nebraska: The scribed basswood sheet I used is Walthers part number 472-4434.
http://www.walthers.com/exec/productinfo/472-4434
Where did Steve find the planking for the bridge? I've looked at Midwest Products and Walthers.
Hey there Angelo, you might this site http://www.spookshow.net/layout5.html interesting , I got the MR booklet of this plan, really impressed with the adaptation
There are 2 wooden road bridges on the CB&Q that look virtually identical to the Red Oak model. One was south of St. Augustine, IL (IL-41) where a county/township road crosses over CB&Q right-of-way (west and parallel to IL-41).
The other is farther south in "on Q's coal country line" (Bushnell-Paducah line) just north of Vermont, IL as the CB&Q right-of-way is east of parallel Vermont Road (Table Grove, IL to Vermont, IL). Again, an E-W county/township road crosses over the Q double tracks.
Opening of the Wyoming coal fields by 1980, saw the dismantling of strip mine and railroad activity in that area.
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There were others, but over past 15 years replacement programs are slowly upgrading these wooden bridges.
Hey Johnny you have the same idea I have. I'm still trying to make my work.
Excellent videos guys. I've been planning a HCD layout for some time. This series is giving me great ideas.
Re: Wayne Weatherman I'm going use 2 doors, check Cunningham's Gap in N plan MR 2003, crossed with project plan The Northwest Timber Co MR 1997-98 , SP Oregon themed 94-95 era, D Popp, L Strang and P Solberg inspired in N scale.
Totally cool idea to hide the wiring in foam and fascia. Putting layout on castors.
Purchase of Carriage bolts,nuts,washers and Casters came to $29.00. I already have the sheet rock screws and some other items. Remaining to purchase will be wood, foam sheets and door panel then construction can begin. So Far total costs are $794.00. Then my Eastern Red Oak will begin!
Today I purchased all the electrical supplies for the Red Oak. Radio shack bill was $49.00 which included small soldering iron I didn't have and solder,flux,wire etc. I also spent $16.00 online for suitcase connectors So figure $70.00 for this part of the layout.
I like this layout, and the fact that you included all the parts in the plan. I am a beginning model railroader, and would like to see the same plan expanded to HO with all the parts, and be able to run large locomotives and steam engines.
Thanks for a great publication.
O.K. I decided to build The Red Oak N layout. I ordered all the Peco track per the list in March MR. Total price for all track,turnouts, joiners etc $500.00 from my local Hobby shop. Actual bill was $540.00 because I had to order one whole case (30pcs) of the Peco code 55 flex rail. And in the $200.00 for a MRC Prodigy2 DCC system and I am at $700.00 so far. Still have to purchase the lumber,door and foam sheets then I finally will be able to get started. Looks like about $1000.00 too get this project done. My Red Oak will have a N.E. R.R. theme since I live in W. Mass. Dont know what the wife will say when I bring home a new DOOR!
So very interesting! I've been away from active participation for a couple of years but have recently constructed a 24" radius circle (in two pieces). Separating the circle, I'm now building that "active yard" in the front with 6 staging tracks (3 each direction) in the back. For solo operation, I think the Red Oak has marvelous possibilities. Learn about track laying, scenery and wiring/DCC on a manageable project. I'd be up for the Daily Special as well. Recipe?
Looks great.. But…You have the Depot, a wispy fence line and telephone poles all done in the front of the layout before tackling any of the back side of the layout. I foresee a problem with elbows and shirts snagging the telephone poles and fence while reaching back to model the background. I would have done the front last, at least the telephone poles.
Why does the whiteboard say 2014 Project Layout when this is the 2015 Project Layout? Looking good, just the same!
I like your tricks to hide the staging, but you're left with only one operational station.The switching etc. will, of necessity, be rather limited. I'm with Ken Mason from Louisiana; let's see how it operates with the staging! Let's try an operating session!!! 🙂
Rabbit stew, eh? I'll order the special, please. Of course this layout won't satisfy everyone, but isn't that a great aspect of our hobby? Some people are content with a length of track and one spur, others need a barn to keep them occupied. I like seeing all the possibilities, big and small. I think there are many people out there that don't get into the hobby, or are intimidated, because they don't have a basement to fill or the time to fill that basement. A layout like this, or a module like I have, is a perfect fit. This is somewhat tongue-in-cheek, but I am waiting for an MR project layout in Z scale!
This is a winner, Michael. This design is great for those of us who have limited space. It has nothing to do with Narrow gauge. This is N gauge. And who says it has to have operation potential or be very realistic to be fun? Its a winner because it looks like a lot of fun to build, and great for just running trains around the track. Why not add lights, sound, and animation to it. I think this is a great series, and I am learning a lot. Size and realism is not a fair measure for fun and enjoyment. Build what makes you happy, but you don't need to knock Kalmbach because they try to help different types of model railroaders.
Sorry gentlemen, but I don't like it. It's too small offering only about 10 feet of visible running track-line. The rest is hidden staging area. This layout represents a hypocrisy in Kalmbach publications. You published the Guide to Narrow Gauge Modeling that discourages the Gauge due to a lack of Koester Cult operation potential. Then you run this series that has almost no "REALISTIC" possibilities, and want to call it a winner. I wouldn't build this layout because I would be bored with it 20 minutes after it was constructed. Sorry……..but not all comments will be in agreement with you.
why is it that on this project layout there are only five episodes unlike that past ones with at least 15 or more? whats up?
Hi guy's, it would be great to see an op session like you did on the Thin Line with this layout.
Good tips on hiding track passing through backdrops, especially the vegetation continuing on the other side of the cut-through, very effective technique, thanks.
Great job Neil and Steve. This project layout clearly demonstrates that even with a small space in an apartment, you can be a model railroader, N scale is great ! How was the Rabbit Stew?
Also, perhaps you could demonstrate how a typical operating session would run on the layout too.
Any chance of seeing the backside staging track setup once the layout is finished?
Nice