DIY graffiti for modern model railroad freight cars

DIYmodeltraingraffiti_01

Like it or not, graffiti is part of the modern railroad scene. Matt Snell shares his techniques for adding different styles of graffiti to rolling stock using paint markers and an airbrush. All photos by Matt Snell. Matt Snell Fig. 1 Basic graffiti. Drawn or spray-painted lettering can be easily re-created on smooth-side cars and […]

Read More…

Details make the difference on your layout

cttpdf052

Follow along and build the CT&T, a 4 x 8 logging-themed project layout. The staff will walk you through the process, including working with foam board, laying track, wiring, scenery, and much more. Track plans using Lionel FasTrack, Atlas O 21st Century track, and MTH RealTrax are included. This package contains 31 pages from six […]

Read More…

Kitbashing strategies for a feed mill

MRRA0120_01B

Tony describes how he kitbashed the feed mill, pictured on the left, of his portable O scale Wingate model railroad. Using parts from two Atlas O Ace Feed & Supply kits, Tony rearranged the side walls and added a second story turned sideways to create a more realistic footprint and to disguise the kit’s all-too-familiar […]

Read More…

Stuff We Use: Xuron Universal Wire Stripper

Hands holding universal wire strippers

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Whether installing a decoder or working on the layout, a sharp wire cutter and striper can make any electronics project go faster and easier. Learn how as senior editor Dana Kawala demonstrates the Xuron Universal Wire Cutter. […]

Read More…

Stuff We Use: How to use Micro Sol and Micro Set

Microsales Micro Set and Micro Sol

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page It can be difficult to get decals to conform to an irregular surface, such as when placing a sign decal on a brick textured wall of a plastic stucture kit. Associate editor Steve Otte shows you how to tackle this task by using […]

Read More…

Stuff We Use How to use a scribing tool

Hand using a scribing tool on the side of a model structure

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Take your model structure building to the next level with a scribing tool. Watch as Group Technical Editor Cody Grivno shows you how to use a scribing tool, such as this one from the Kalmbach Hobby Store, to blend the mortar lines of […]

Read More…

Stuff We Use: Magnetic snap and glue set

Hands holding a corner clamp

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Do you sometimes feel like you need an extra hand when assembling a structure kit? Watch Group Technical Editor Cody Grivno as he demonstrates how to use this magnetic snap and glue set from the Kalmbach Hobby Store. It’s designed to hold wall […]

Read More…

Expert Scratchbuilding Tips with Renee Grosser: Part 4, Structure finishing tips

Model farmhouse.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page To complete her O scale scratchbuilding series, modeler Renee Grosser shares her technique for adding realistic roof shingles, chimney fixtures, and window/door details to the rustic farmhouse. […]

Read More…

Expert Scratchbuilding Tips with Renee Grosser: Part 1, Sub-wall construction

Renee's model farmhouse.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Award-winning modeler Renee Grosser launches an MRVP exclusive mini-series highlighting her top-notch modeling skills and tips. Follow along as she shares her process for using styrene to scratchbuild a farmhouse from little more than a few snapshots! […]

Read More…

How-to Library: Easy Model Railroad Photography – Episode 3 Depth of Field and Lighting

Easy Railroad Photography logo

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page In this episode, Gerry Leone talks about how to adjust your camera settings to capture model railroad settings with a realistic depth of field. He also addresses lighting options (type and placement)! […]

Read More…

How-to Library: Easy Model Railroad Photography – Episode 5 Helicon Focus, Experimentation, and a Photoshoot

Picture of a Helicon Focus software page.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page To conclude this five-part series, Gerry Leone shows how easy it is to use Helicon Focus software to enhance the focal depth of your model railroad photography. And to wrap things up, Gerry dissects all that goes into building a properly lit professional […]

Read More…