Installing roadbed at turnouts | Watch and learn how to lay cork roadbed material under track switches of any scale or gauge. Follow along with David’s helpful tips and tricks, and you’ll be well under way to providing a smooth and level base for under the most critical locations of your model railroad trackwork! Be […]
Read More…
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 […]
Read More…
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 […]
Read More…
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 […]
Read More…
The Lionel No. 773 4-6-4 Hudson steam engine and tender from 1950 did much to revive the passion dedicated O gauge modeler Walt Urban Jr. has for toy trains. He reminds us that hobbyists who grew up during the 1950s will remember the annual holiday shopping season as being particularly nostalgic. Like him, many of […]
Read More…
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 […]
Read More…
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? […]
Read More…
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 […]
Read More…
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 […]
Read More…
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. […]
Read More…
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 […]
Read More…
Selecting lumber for your layout| With a wide array of wood grades available at major home improvement centers, it’s important to know what works best verses what is the most economical. Making the wrong choice of lumber can lead to issues in benchwork construction…and even in trackwork, scenery, and layout operation too! No worries. David […]
Read More…