How-to Library: Designing and Printing Decals

Several graphics being designed on a computer screen.

Model Railroader magazine’s Steve Otte shares a decal printing technique he used to complete his structure for MRVP’s State Line Kitbash Challenge. Follow along as he demonstrates the steps that take you from computer design to color-printed, waterslide decal sheets! […]

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How-to Library: Designing and Printing Decals

Several graphics being designed on a computer screen.

Model Railroader magazine’s Steve Otte shares a decal printing technique he used to complete his structure for MRVP’s State Line Kitbash Challenge. Follow along as he demonstrates the steps that take you from computer design to color-printed, waterslide decal sheets! […]

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Expert Scratchbuilding Tips with Renee Grosser: Part 2, Modeling siding

Renee Grosser working on scratchbuilding.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page   Renee Grosser reveals more of her expert scratchbuilding insights. In this episode, she shares how easy it is to add siding to her O scale structures when using clapboard-pattern, sheet styrene material. […]

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How-to Library: Easy Model Railroad Photography – Episode 4 Bounce Cards and Software

Photographing a model layout.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page   Gerry Leone demonstrates a handy technique that makes it appear like your photos are captured under real sunlight. Plus, he’ll also show how photo enhancement software can bring new clarity to your photography efforts! […]

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Stuff We Use: Pliers and cutters for model railroaders

Assortment of pliers on a workbench

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page A Xuron Modeler’s tool kit includes sprue cutters, microshears, and tweezernose pliers. All of these tools get a lot of use down at the Model Railroader workshop. In this quick demo, editor Hal Miller shows you some of his favorite tips for using […]

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Stuff We Use: Adjustable snap and glue clamps

Adjustable snap and glue clamps

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page For projects such as building a model structure roof, gluing pieces of styrene at an angle can be tricky. Associate editor Steve Otte shows you how to make this task much easier and quicker with a set of snap-and-glue clamps. […]

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Stuff We Use: How to use microbrush applicators

Adhesvies, microbrushes, and a boxcar on a workbench

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page Microbrush applicators have myriad uses in a model railroader’s workshop. Learn about these useful tools with Model Railroader Senior Editor Dana Kawala. If you need to stock up on microbrushes, get some at the Kalmbach Hobby Store! […]

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How to host an open house of your garden railroad

boy walking down sidewalk

Sharing our railroads with others is perhaps one of the most rewarding aspects of garden railroading. Andy, age three, knows the way, even without the sign. Kevin Strong If a train is running, kids will follow it. Here, a K-27 leads a parade of young future railroaders around the yard. At least they’ll sleep well. […]

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