Beginners Archives - Page 3 of 5

Toy Train Basics: Cleaning track and wheels

MRVP’s Jenny Freeland shares insights on how to properly clean O gauge track in this continuing video series from Classic Toy Trains magazine! […]

Making movies without a video camera

GoPro cameras, cell-phone cameras, and video-capable DSLR cameras are everywhere. This column will review a dozen examples of video technique from my “Video 101” workshop, presented at the National Garden Railway Convention. Columns will include suggestions, with photographic links to a short demonstration videos of some Bay Area railroads. I recently saw a man filming […]

Early catalogues from the Baldwin Locomotive Works

Here are some additional interesting details from three early Baldwin catalogues in my collection, plus some more info about the facsimile I made of the rare and elusive 1885 Illustrated Catalogue of Narrow-Gauge Locomotives. Note: Click on any of the images to enlarge. The covers of three early catalogues from Baldwin Locomotive Works. The large […]

Toy Train Basics: Changing traction tires

Classic Toy Trains magazine Editor Hal Miller demonstrates his quick and easy techniques for replacing those worn out rubber traction tires found on many O gauge steam and diesel locomotives. […]

How to adjust wheelsets on model trains

Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page If you have trouble with your rolling stock staying on the rails, you should check the wheelsets. In this video, Cody shows you how to check and adjust the wheels on model trains. […]

Most Common Adhesives and Glues for Model Railroading

Kent Johnson next to assortment of glues

Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page With such a wide array of materials used in model railroading today, it can be challenging to figure out which glues and adhesives you’ll want to have on hand. Kent Johnson of MR Video Plus takes a quick look at some of the […]

Build a covered loading platform in 1:29 scale

Download the PDF of this project here. This PDF is formatted to print on your home printer. Most pieces are formatted to fit on a 8.5″ x 11″ piece of paper. For larger parts of the plan, you will see “break lines.” Line up the break lines to create the larger piece. PLEASE NOTE: This […]

Modeling damaged trees on your train layout

Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Add a touch of realism to your modeled forest or wooded grove by including decaying or damaged trees. Kent Johnson demonstrates a quick and easy technique for making plague pines using plastic tree kits available for layouts of any size or scale. […]

How to use ground foam in your model train layout

Hand applying ground cover to model train layout

Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page The wide array of scenery products available for making a model railroad look realistic can be overwhelming, especially if you’re just getting started in the hobby. In this video, Kent Johnson takes a quick look at some of the most common varieties of […]

How to apply static grass to your model train layout

Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Realistic model railroad scenery is much easier once you know how to apply static grass. Kent Johnson shows you how easy it is to apply these small rayon fibers, which stand on end just like real grass! […]

How to clean model train track

Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Dirty track can take all the fun out of model railroading. Kent Johnson shows you how easy it is to shine up the rails and keep your trains rolling smoothly in this video. […]