Model Railroader Tips & Tricks | Choosing roadbed

Choosing roadbed | While adding track to your subroadbed layout base is an possible, you’ll want to consider installing an additional, more realistic layer of material specifically designed to support and secure your trackwork. Follow along as David shares various roadbed options that can be used across layouts of all sizes and scales! Be sure […]

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Trailing lobelia

garden railway with plant with purple flowers on right side

Common name: Trailing lobelia, edging lobelia, annual lobelia Latin name: Lobelia erinus ‘Riviera Sky Blue’ Plant type: Annual Plant size: 8-10″ high and spreading USDA Hardiness Zones: 10-11 for overwintering, all Zones as an annual Cultural needs: Moist soil, sun or part shade, fertilize regularly for continuous blooming So few miniature plants have such a […]

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Tips and tricks for improving reach around your layout

Tape measurer on layout tabletop

Reach, in model railroading terminology, is how far you can comfortably stick your arm into a scene without damaging the layout. Planning for reach is essential when designing a layout, as eventually you will need to dust, fix, change, or maintain one or more scenic features once it is built. The maximum depth the average […]

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Model Railroader Tips & Tricks | Evaluating subroadbed options

Evaluating subroadbed options| When it comes to building a new model railroad, the foundation you use to support your trackwork and scenery is especially important. Taking numerous factors under consideration (e.g., cost, easy of use, durability, etc.), expert layout builder David Popp shares info and insights you need to know before making your choice! You […]

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Why I collect Gilbert American Flyer

wall of toy trains on shelves

What do I collect? I collect S gauge Gilbert American Flyer, as it’s the scale and brand with which I entered the model railroading hobby. I have always enjoyed S gauge, as the size is nice and Gilbert American Flyer enjoys a great history and loyal, albeit somewhat small, following. When did I start collecting? […]

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Model Railroader Tips & Tricks | Determining reasonable reach

Determining reasonable reach | David Popp shows you how to establish the most reasonable depth — distance from front edge to backdrop — for a model railroad. Along the way, he’ll share helpful measurements and practical insights for keeping your layout functional and fun to run! You can learn more about benchwork construction in the […]

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Model Railroader Tips & Tricks | Building L-girders

Building L-girders| Watch and learn as David Popp demonstrates how to assemble one of the most essential and versatile components of a model railroad! You can learn more about benchwork construction in the East Troy Industrial Park project layout video, “Building a frame”. Plus, you’ll want to be sure to find other helpful videos like […]

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Late trains? Make the most of an extended journey

A nighttime photo of multiple tracks leading to Chicago Union Station

A late train can happen for many reasons. It’s up to you to make the most of an unexpected delay. It’s no secret — and it shouldn’t be a surprise — that sometimes North American overnight long-haul passenger trains can run hours behind schedule. Here’s are tips for making the most of an extended journey. […]

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Model Railroader Tips & Tricks | Adjusting leg height

Adjusting leg height| In instances where the floor isn’t quite as flat as it looks, David Popp shows how to install adjustable feet or glides on layout legs…and then use them to level out any troublesome height discrepancies across your model railroad! You can also read about this technique in the Trains.com article, “How to […]

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