How-To Library | Build a laser-cut wood structure kit, Part 3

Steve Otte finalizes work on his single rail-served factory for Model Railroader magazine’s 2024 project layout, the HO scale Free-Mo module. This structure stems from American Model Builders’ A.C. Brown Mfg. Co., a laser-cut wood kit. Follow along from the beginning, as  he works through this multi-part build! […]

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How-To Library | Build a laser-cut wood structure kit, Part 2

For the single rail-served factory on Model Railroader magazine’s 2024 project layout, the HO scale Free-Mo module Freemont Mills, Steve selected American Model Builders’ A.C. Brown Mfg. Co., a laser-cut wood kit. Follow along as he continues to work through this multi-part build…and see if you pick up any tips to help you on your […]

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How-To Library | Build a laser-cut wood structure kit, Part 1

For the single rail-served factory on Model Railroader magazine’s 2024 project layout, the HO scale Free-Mo module Freemont Mills, Steve selected American Model Builders’ A.C. Brown Mfg. Co., a laser-cut wood kit. Follow along as he works through this build and see if you pick up any tips to help you on your next laser-cut […]

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What is a good way to begin adding scenery to my layout?

Adding scenery to your layout can take it from a basic track setup to a realistic and immersive world. It’s an exciting and creative part of model railroading that allows you to design and construct a unique landscape for your trains to travel through. However, it can be overwhelming to know where to start which […]

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How-To Library: Spaces To Places II: Building Eagle Lake, Part 4 Finishing details

Gerry Leone

Details are what make any scene on a model railroad come alive! In the final installment of this mini-series, Gerry Leone works to add those to his streets, sidewalks, and storefronts of Eagle Lake. Watch to see how Gerry arranges components on the workbench, before they all come together on the layout. […]

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How-to Library: Working with cloth shell scenery

narrow gauge modeler Gregg Condo

Noted narrow gauge modeler Gregg Condon shares his easy approach to building model railroad scenery without using plaster. In this how-to video, Gregg demonstrates just how simple it is to combine carved foamboard, cloth shapes, and adhesive caulk to make realistic model railroad landforms. […]

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How-to Library: Working with cloth shell scenery

narrow gauge modeler Gregg Condo

Noted narrow gauge modeler Gregg Condon shares his easy approach to building model railroad scenery without using plaster. In this how-to video, Gregg demonstrates just how simple it is to combine carved foamboard, cloth shapes, and adhesive caulk to make realistic model railroad landforms. […]

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How-To Library: Spaces To Places II: Building Eagle Lake, Part 3 Road Construction

Gerry Leone working on street details.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page   Gerry Leone is back on the streets again. In this episode, he shares how to scribe cracks into concrete roads; apply a realistic, aged concrete color; include brick pavement; and add a dirt alley between buildings. […]

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How-To Library: Turning Spaces into Places II, Part 2 – Knocking the Blocks Off

Gerry Leone working on his streets.

Contributing Editor Gerry Leone continues to share his final project on the HO scale Bona Vista Rwy. This time you’ll see how to make sure Main Street, its sidewalks, and all of the surrounding structures maintain prototypical alignment and appearance. […]

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How-to Library: Turning Spaces into Places II, Part 1 – Out on the Town

Gerry Leone front of his model layout.

Having trouble viewing this video?   Please visit our Video FAQ page   Before the demise of his HO scale Bona Vista Rwy., MRVP Contributing Editor Gerry Leone couldn’t help but to launch into one final layout project. Follow along with Gerry’s effort to turn a vacant space into a town location he’s named Eagle […]

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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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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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