Category Description: Information about how to build a model railroad.
A Finale for Chupadera Loop Part 4
Model Railroading 2000-11/12 pg. 60 Scale: HO Author: Margaret Mansfield
The author describes how she and her husband concealed the edges of an access area in the loop.
A Great Starting Layout and/or Test Track
N Scale Railroading 2003-01/02 pg. 62 Scale: N Author: Kirk Reddie
Building a simple figure-8 test track using Kato's Unitrack.
A Last Look at Thatcher's Inlet Part 4
Railroad Model Craftsman 1972-05 pg. 24 Scale: HOn3 Author: Dave Frary & Bob Hayden
This last installment focuses on creating the atmosphere in the main street and the dockside fish warehouse complex. It covers how one might design structure layout by constructing temporary cardboard mockups. Many close-up photos.
A Logging Train Elevator
N Scale Railroading 2003-01/02 pg. 42 Scale: (none) Author: Don N. Jones
Building a vertical elevator that delivers loaded cars to the top and empty cars at the bottom, so that the visible operations look real. Identical locomotives are required. Excellent example of how to build switchback track. Includes technical drawing of the elevator.
A New Layout Part I
Railroad Model Craftsman 2005-09 pg. 72 Scale: HO Author: Don Spiro
The author talks about the demise of his previous layout, why the new layout, and the things he wants to do different this time. Obviously the layout is quite far along, because it includes lots of nice close-up photos of the new layout.
A New Layout Part II
Railroad Model Craftsman 2005-10 pg. 72 Scale: HO Author: Don Spiro
This installment covers the construction of the benchwork on top of shelf system brackets. The author attempts to use the minimal number of tools showing that in two weeks the "dirty" job of benchwork can be completed.
A New Layout Part III
Railroad Model Craftsman 2005-11 pg. 88 Scale: HO Author: Don Spiro
In this installment of the author's layout construction project he discusses track planning and track laying.
A New Layout Part IV
Railroad Model Craftsman 2005-12 pg. 91 Scale: (none) Author: Don Spiro
This article discusses the idea of using photos of models as backdrops. A large part of the article covers how to do the photography.
ABCs: Going Beyond the Train Set
Model Railroader 1987-12 pg. 120 Scale: (none) Author: Jim Kelly
A basic hand-holding article starting with the train set loop track and adding turnouts, flexible track, and dealing with derailments and buying new equipment.
Alcos in the Alcove
Model Railroad Hobbyist 2009 July pg. 26 Scale: HO Author: Byron Henderson
The author describes how he built benchwork extension to fit into an alcove in his client's model railroad room. The focus of this project was to design the track around the available structure kits. Includes a track plan and notes on how to operate that new area.
Backdrops
Model Railroader 2000-04 pg. 123 Scale: (none) Author: Marty McGuirk
This articles covers how to build a backdrop using 0.060" styrene and painting it with just some basic sky colors.
Backdrops for the Jerome & Southwestern
Model Railroader 1983-01 pg. 78 Scale: (none) Author: John Olson
Covers why and how to build a backdrop, including painting and applying stencils or paper cut-outs.
Basics of Thatcher's Inlet Part 3
Railroad Model Craftsman 1972-04 pg. 30 Scale: (none) Author: Dave Frary & Bob Hayden
This installment covers the basic construction of the layout, such as benchwork, track laying, and wiring. Many construction photos are included.
Benchwork Without Tools - 22 Stories Up!
Model Railroad Hobbyist 2010-11/12 pg. 100 Scale: Author: Thomas Garbelotti
Continuation of building a layout in an apartment in the Middle East. Benchwork was pre-built at the author's home in Vermont before the move.
Benchwork for the Lowville & Beaver River Part 2
Railroad Model Craftsman 1991-11 pg. 81 Scale: HO Author: Jeff Paston
This installment covers the beginning of the construction of the RMC project layout. It is a U-shaped layout of 10 by 12 feet. The article covers building the framework, the legs, the layout surface, and how to install leg levelers.
Birth of a Model Railroad
N-Scale 2005-10/11 pg. 25 Scale: N Author: Walt Huston
The author provides a series of photos showing the current progress on his new layout. He talks about the skyboards and the insulation foam used to start the basis of his scenery.
Birth of a Model Railroad Part 5
N-Scale 2005-11/12 pg. 36 Scale: N Author: Walt Huston
This installment covers building, installing, and painting the backdrops.
Boxed Benchwork
Railroad Model Craftsman 2005-12 pg. 73 Scale: HO Author: Trevor Marshall
Building a light-weight plywood shadow-box style modular layout for easy transportation.
Branch Line for the Turtle Creek Central Part 1
Model Railroader 2005-01 pg. 60 Scale: HO Author: Jim Kelly
In 2002 Model Railroader ran a series of articles building a 4x8 foot layout. This series of articles will add a 2' x 6' extension to that layout. However, the article includes diagrams of how just using this branch line module only, one could have operations.This installment covers the trackplan, the benchwork construction, and using foam to build the scenery foundation.
Build a Magnetic Lift-out Bridge
Model Railroader 1999-12 pg. 97 Scale: (none) Author: Bill Darnaby
Using magnets to hold a lift-out section in place and using it to conduct trackpower, so that when the magnets are disconnected, trackpower is removed.
Build an Adjustable Liftout
Model Railroader 2006-08 pg. 28 Scale: (none) Author: Jim Hediger
The author describes how he built his angled liftout to help prevent problems related to alignment due to expansion and contraction.
Build the 4 x 8 Stoney Creek Part 1
Model Railroader 2006-01 pg. 50 Scale: HO Author: Dave Methlie
The author is a professional layout builder, and will cover the construction of this layout. This installment covers the table top frame and its legs.
Build the 4 x 8 Stoney Creek Part 2
Model Railroader 2006-02 pg. 58 Scale: HO Author: Dave Methlie
This installment covers laying the track and installing the wiring of this layout.
Build the 4X8 Stoney Creek Part 3
Model Railroader 2006-03 pg. 88 Scale: HO Author: Dave Methlie
In this installment the author covers grass, rocks, and roads. Topics included are adding a stream and bridge, building a tunnel, filling up scenery areas with chunks of foam, creating roads, varnishing the layout's fascia, creating rocks from molds, and placing ground cover.
Build the Cat Mountain's South Plains District Part I
Model Railroader 1996-09 pg. 56 Scale: HO Author: David Barrow
David introduces his "domino" layout design, a modular design that makes each module 18" by 48". The focus of the his layout design is operations, and the track plan included is an L-shaped layout with lots of switching opportunity in a relatively small space. The article covers the complete construction of one such domino with lots of diagrams, construction photos, and a materials list. Roadbed installation is also covered.
Build the Claremont & Concord in G Scale Part 4
Model Railroader 2005-11 pg. 78 Scale: G Author: Tony Koester
The final installment discusses choosing the right rolling stock and setting up for operations.
Building Vance Junction in HOn3
Narrow Gauge And Short Line Gazette 2008-09/10 pg. 28 Scale: HOn3 Author: Steve Harris
This photo essay article describes the author's recently completed Vance Junction on his layout. He completely finishes one scene before even laying track in the next area. It is a 9' x 24', double-deck layout where the upper level has already been completed, as described in the July/August, 2006 issue of NGSLG. The article includes construction photos.
Building a Compact Shelf Layout Part 1
Model Railroader 2002-10 pg. 54 Scale: HO Author: Pelle Soeborg
Choosing a theme, benchwork, backdrop, building hills, roadbed, painting the sky, distant hills, laying track, highway overpass, paving highways, coloring rock castings, culverts.
Building a Compact Shelf Layout Part 2
Model Railroader 2002-11 pg. 60 Scale: HO Author: Pelle Soeborg
Ground cover, ballast track, bushes and trees, water, grain elevator, depot, town structures, streets, grade crossings, sidewalks, and line poles and street lights.
Building a Foam Core Board Layout
Model Railroader 1991-01 pg. 117 Scale: HO Author: Jim Kelly
The objective of this project was to build an HO-scale layout that uses only simple construction techniques, no messy materials, no power tools, lightweight materials, and all materials must be transportable in a small car. This installment covers the construction of the table, the "legs", and installing Unitrak track.
Building a Small O Scale Layout Part 15
O Scale Trains Magazine 32 May 2007 pg. 26 Scale: O Author: Michael Culham
This installment starts a series of articles on how to build grade crossings. Several close-up photos of prototype grade crossings and modeled grade crossings are included. This installment covers the construction of a timber-based grade crossing, with step-by-step photos.
Building a Small O Scale Layout Part Six
O Scale Trains Magazine 23 November 2005 pg. 19 Scale: O Author: Michael Culham
This installment discusses ground cover. The article includes fantastic photos of grasses growing in between the tracks. A step-by-step set of photos show how the author modeled that on the layout.
Building a Small O Scale Layout Part Sixteen
O Scale Trains Magazine 33 July 2007 pg. 26 Scale: O Author: Michael Culham
This install covers how to model paved roads, gutters, curbs, sidewalks, and painting roads.
Building an HO Module 1
Model Railroader 1989-09 pg. 58 Scale: HO Author: Michael Tylick
The author introduces the standard for HO-scale module construction. The article introduces the F&S Junction 2x4-foot module. Includes photos, a trackplan of the module, a sidebar on the module construction standard, and diagrams for creating handlaid turnouts and slide switch turnout control.
Building the Benchwork for My PRR Northeastern Division
Railroad Model Craftsman 1996-06 pg. 82 Scale: HO Author: Dave Messer
The trackplan for this layout, which was presented in the October 1995 issue, is now being implemented. Construction details as well as final layout photos accompany the article. The entire front fascia of this layout functions are the control panel.
Building the Carbondale Part 2
Model Railroader 1988-02 pg. 80 Scale: HO Author: Malcolm Furlow
This installment covers creating the scenery, bridge construction (detail drawings show how to build a deck girder bridge under curved track), construction of the upper level, building the wharf, and construction the backdrops (including curves). Close-up photos of Malcolm's beautiful work are, of course, included.
Building the Carbondale Central 3
Model Railroader 1988-03 pg. 92 Scale: HO Author: Malcolm Furlow
This part discusses building bridges, structures, installing water, and fascias.
Building the Carbondale Central Part 1
Model Railroader 1988-01 pg. 80 Scale: HO Author: Malcolm Furlow
This 7'9" by 7'9" layout features a simple trackplan, yet very interesting and involved scenery. The author starts a series of articles on how to build this L-shaped layout, without damaging the home's walls. Full drawings of the benchwork are included, trackwork is started (a simple figure-8), control panel designed, and wiring.
Building the Joplin & Southern Part 1
Model Railroader 1985-12 pg. 136 Scale: HO Author: Martin C. Oetting
Building a simple 4'x8' starter layout. This installment covers the styrofoam base, track, roadbed, and wiring.
Building the Lamar, Queens & Northern
Model Railroader 1984-12 pg. 122 Scale: HO Author: Eric Lundberg
Building a starter 4x8 layout for less than $300 (1984) dollars. Includes benchwork construction, track parts, structures, laying track, ballasting, installing electronics, and scenery work.
Building the Marengo, Milwaukee & Northern
Model Railroader 1984-12 pg. 98 Scale: HO Author: Wayne Wesolowski
A 4x8 layout built by the entire family. The article shows diagrams of the benchwork, scenery forms, and block wiring.
Building the South Park Valley Part VII
Railroad Model Craftsman 2002-01 pg. 82 Scale: On3 Author: Miles Hale, John Lowrence, Fran Hale
This installment covers the roadbed made out of Homasote© and styrofoam slopes. Foam and cork are also discussed. A handy tool for creating foam slopes for the roadbed is described, as well as a tool for sanding handlaid wooden ties.
Building the Turtle Creek Central Part 2
Model Railroader 2003-02 pg. 78 Scale: HO Author: Jim Kelly
Laying track and building foam hills.
Building the Turtle Creek Central Part 3
Model Railroader 2003-03 pg. 80 Scale: HO Author: Jim Kelly
This installment shows how to add bridges, forests, rocks, and rivers.
Comme-n-tary: A Mountain from a Cardboard Box
Model Railroad Hobbyist 2010-11/12 pg. 142 Scale: N Author: John Drye
Building large mountains using cardboard strips, applying scenery base, and installing trees.
Complex Levels
Garden Railways 2005-12 pg. 108 Scale: G Author: Peter Jones
Dealing with the vertical and grades of garden railroad construction.
Creating an Urban Scene for a Stub-ended Yard
N-Scale 2002-07/08 pg. 20 Scale: N Author: Robert Lah
This article describes how the author built a removable section of scenery that hides, but yet remains accessible, a set of storage tracks.
Doing the String Thing
Model Railroading 2002-11 pg. 20 Scale: HO Author: Jim Mansfield
Using strings to line up the two sides of a future bridge span.
Easements for the Learning Curve
O Scale Trains Magazine 33 July 2007 pg. 11 Scale: Author: Brian Scace
The author discusses turnout placement, making sure to have enough electrical power (e.g. adding dedicated circuits for the layout room), filling rail gaps with something/anything, reverse curves (s-curves), and hidden trackage.
Easy Recessed Fascia Controls
Model Railroading 2002-09 pg. 29 Scale: (none) Author: Bob Foltz
Building recessed controls for turnouts.
Easy Turnout Controls
Model Railroader 2003-05 pg. 86 Scale: (none) Author: Gerry Leone
Using a slide switch to control turnouts manually through cabinet knobs that stick out through the front fascia. Includes wiring diagrams for controlling the power to the turnout's frog.
Fascias
Model Railroader 1999-11 pg. 129 Scale: (none) Author: Marty McGuirk
The basics about what can be incorporated into a layout's fascia.
Fiddle Shelf Staging
Model Railroader 1996-09 pg. 96 Scale: HO Author: John Griffiths
This article includes diagrams and photos of a two-track shelving system that the author uses to move trains onto and off of his layout.
Focus on Thatcher's Inlet Part 1
Railroad Model Craftsman 1972-02 pg. 36 Scale: HOn2-1/2 Author: Bob Hayden
Inspired by a sea-side vacation the author built this 2'6" by 6' diorama using N-scale track. Includes prototype and model photos, as well as possible trackplans for a layout within which this diorama fits.
Fold Down Train Board
N-Scale 2000-07/08 pg. 58 Scale: (none) Author: Dave LaFontaine
Building a box that can hold a fold-down table so that the layout can be flipped out of the way when not in use.
Freshness: It's Not Just Vacuum-packed
Model Railroad News 2010-09 pg. 104 Scale: Author: Sawyer Berry
Reworking some parts of the layout to better fit the original intent may give you a fresh view of your layout.
Fun in Tiny Spaces
Scale Rails 2005-11 pg. 21 Scale: G Author: Carl Arendt
The author discusses how he designs, builds, and then operates his tiny G-scale layout that covers only one square foot. Includes design and construction photos. There is a side bar called "Games People Play" that covers some other small layouts that can keep operators busy, such as the famous TimeSaver.
Getting Real: Flipping The Piers
Model Railroad Hobbyist 2010-11/12 pg. 137 Scale: HO Author: Marty McGuirk
The author discusses various decisions he has made to model a pier in his layout.
Great Western Rail & Mining Part IV
N-Scale 2006-07/08 pg. 55 Scale: N Author: Trevor Morris
Installing the electrical wiring and train control for these modules.
Handy Layout Table
Model Railroader 1999-11 pg. 125 Scale: (none) Author: Lionel Strang
This article describes how the author built a table for the Woodland Scenics Scenic Ridge layout.
Introducing the Allegheny Midland Part 2
Model Railroader 1988-01 pg. 116 Scale: HO Author: Tony Koester
In this installment of the author's now-famous layout, he shows the trackplan, develops the reason for the layout's existence, describes the why behind the era and area, lists the trains to be operated, and develops plans for operating sessions.
Introducing the N Scale Burlington Northern Part 1
Model Railroader 1990-02 pg. 94 Scale: N Author: Ed Hammer
The first part of this series covers how the decision was made to build this N-scale layout, who was involved, and what was to be modeled. Includes a track plan, many photos of the layout and some prototype photos of the area.
Introducing the Wisconsin Central in N Scale Part 1
Model Railroader 1997-07 pg. 56 Scale: N Author: Marc Van Cleven
The Model Railroader magazine's staff is starting a new project. The article discusses who worked on the project, research information about the prototype (including prototype photos and a map of the modeled area), what key features they wanted in the layout, and a diagram of the 9' by 16' layout.
Iota: End of a Very Short Line
Railroad Model Craftsman 1972-05 pg. 44 Scale: HO Author: Richard Francaviglia
The author built a 17" x 56" switching layout representing the end of a short line in the Great Plains.
Keeping Track
Model Railroader 1978-02 pg. 118 Scale: Author: Eric Lundberg
As people operate on the owner's layout, they are requested to make "bad order" signs and locate them near the area where work needs to be done.
Laying Track on the Moffat Road
N Scale Railroading 2003-09/10 pg. 38 Scale: N Author: Mike Danneman
Lots of photos accompany this article about how Mike built this large and very nice-looking layout. He describes how he built the lower level first, and after testing all track, moved on to the upper level, including the helix. He used the cookie-cutter method and Peco code 55 track in the visible areas. A description of how he installs Tortoise switch machines is also included.
Lessons from a Successful Layout Part 2
Model Railroader 2005-11 pg. 66 Scale: (none) Author: Paul J. Dolkos
This installment discusses the virtues of having nice scenery to help set the tone for operations.
Lighting & Valances
N Scale Railroading 2006-09/10 pg. 44 Scale: (none) Author: Edmund Schultz
The author shows how he installed valances and room lighting following the outer contour of his (future) layout. Includes many construction photos.
Lightweight Benchwork
Railroad Model Craftsman 2009-11 pg. 63 Scale: Author: Michael Tylick
This article describes how the author builds his modules for his G-scale modular layout. The techniques shown build a very strong, yet lightweight module.
Metropolitan Transit Authority Part 2
Model Railroader 1999-11 pg. 96 Scale: HO Author: Harvey J. Simon
This installment covers laying the girder rail and flextrack for trolley. Includes many construction photos, wiring diagram, and a sidebar on control panel construction.
Metropolitan Transit Authority Part 3
Model Railroader 1999-12 pg. 88 Scale: HO Author: Harvey J. Simon
In this installment the article covers installing the paving and scenery of the Boston MTA layout. The street paving is done with patching plaster because of its longer working time. The article also covers ballasting, installing back drops, building landforms, and making culverts and a reservoir. Includes many construction photos.
Metropolitan Transit Authority Part 4
Model Railroader 2000-01 pg. 100 Scale: HO Author: Harvey J. Simon
An epoxy body kit and an NWSL drive make for smooth-running PCC. Mechanical installation photos. Scale drawings. Prototype photos.
Metropolitan Transit Authority Part 5
Model Railroader 2000-02 pg. 72 Scale: HO Author: Harvey J. Simon
Installing catenary.
Metropolitan Transit Authority Part 6
Model Railroader 2000-03 pg. 94 Scale: HO Author: Harvey J. Simon
A few easy scratchbuilt buildings firmly root the layout in the prototype.
Model Railroad Maintenance of Way Part II
Railroad Model Craftsman 2005-11 pg. 79 Scale: HO Author: Don Fiehmann
This installment talks about how to keep roadbed and track in good shape. It covers creating removable section of scenery to access turnout machines, creating track cleaner cars using the John Allen method, creating a magnet car for pickup metal parts, and creating your own rerailer.
Modeling the Clinchfield RR. Part 1
Model Railroader 1978-11 pg. 84 Scale: N Author: Gordon Odegard
This is the introductory part of a three-part article on how the Model Railroader staff built a portable 6' x 13' N-scale layout, based on a prototype railroad. This introduction talks about how they got started, the prototype research they did, layout design, equipment selection, how the layout is to be operated and controlled, and provides lots of photos of the layout itself. There is a column in the back of the issue to talks about the behind-the-scenes set-up for photographing the layou.
Modeling the M&StL Through Mason City Part I
Railroad Model Craftsman 2008-11 pg. 88 Scale: Author: Clark Propst
The author is getting ready to model the town of Mason City, Iowa in as close of a match as possible. This installment covers the research he did, how he decided to model just one town, the industries in the area, and the depot. It includes a lot of prototype photos.
Modeling the M&StL Through Mason City Part II
Railroad Model Craftsman 2008-12 pg. 76 Scale: HO Author: Clark Propst
The author describes how he was committed to modeling this town using the actual trackplan. Prototype and model photos are includes, as well as prototype trackplans for the diesel house and the depot area. The layout trackplan is also included. Finally, he covers the three "jobs" in how the layout (and the prototype) is operated.
Modified L Girder
Model Railroader 1978-01 pg. 141 Scale: Author: Gordon Odegard
Describes Gordon's changes to the standard L-girder layout benchwork created by Linn Westcott.
My Son's First Train Layout
Model Railroader 1994-12 pg. 113 Scale: (none) Author: Dan Lebryk
This one-page article describes how the author build a 24" x 40" table for his son's Brio (wooden trains) layout.
Narrow Gauge in a Garage Part 1
Model Railroader 2006-07 pg. 36 Scale: On3 Author: George Sebastian-Coleman
This first installment discusses the how and why of building an O-scale layout in a garage shared with the family car. Layout photos, trackplan, and sidebars are includes. One sidebar is about On3 v.s On2-1/2, and another is on converting a Bachmann 2-6-0 to On3. There are several more on On3 trucks, and adding DCC to an On2-1/2 Porter.
Narrow Gauge in a Garage Part 2
Model Railroader 2006-08 pg. 50 Scale: On3 Author: George Sebastian-Coleman
This installment covers building benchwork, with specific focus on the tight constraints and sloping floor of a garage. It also covers backdrop construction, and building storage shelves upon which the layout rests.
Narrow Gauge in a Garage Part 3
Model Railroader 2006-09 pg. 52 Scale: On3 Author: George Sebastian-Coleman
This installment covers installing DCC, installing roadbed on the new layout, and installing Tortoise switch motors using the NCE decoders.
Our Seaboard Central Part 1
Model Railroader 1985-12 pg. 86 Scale: HO Author: Jim Kelly
The Model Railroader magazine staff built this layout in front of a live audience at the 50th anniversary of the NMRA. The new 4'-7" x 8'-6" layout is intended to extend the Kitty Hawk Central they covered starting with the December, 1981 issue of MR. The article includes behind-the-scenes photos, a track plan, and discusses the construction of the bench work, track and wiring. It also includes sidebars on creating and installing end-of-train devices, and the construction of their simple switch machine.
Paneled Benchwork
Railroad Model Craftsman 1980-12 pg. 64 Scale: (none) Author: Saunders Bridges, Jr.
Making basic rectangular open frame boxes (carcases) upon which the layout is constructed, and then covering it all with wood paneling.
Port of Los Angeles Project Railroad part 2
Model Railroader 1991-01 pg. 94 Scale: HO Author: Robert Smaus
This module has lots of track and serves at least five industries. This installment covers cutting up commercial turnouts to make them fit, how to deal with rail size differences (code 100 to 83), wiring, switch stands, how to make roads, and how to have track buries in pavement.
Port of Los Angeles Project Railroad part 4
Model Railroader 1991-03 pg. 94 Scale: HO Author: Robert Smaus
This final installment covers installing the removable liquid bulk terminal, adding details, using European kits, fencing, dirt, ballast, backdrop installation, and a sidebar on painting and weathering.
Recessed Fascia Panels
Model Railroader 1999-12 pg. 135 Scale: (none) Author: Lionel Strang
To avoid damaging the plugs of throttles, the author shows how he built recessed fascia panels.
Recycling a Layout
N Scale Railroading 2006-09/10 pg. 38 Scale: N Author: Mitch Valder
Converting a HOn3 modular layout into an N-scale layout with some switching.
Refining Your Goals
Railroad Model Craftsman 2011-01 pg. 71 Scale: HO Author: Jack Burgess
This article is about Robert Hoffman and his desire to change the area he wanted to model. There isn't much information about Robert's layout in the article, but it describes some unique issues he dealt with, such as being able to have operations in the dark.
Roque Bluffs Lightweight Benchwork Part 2
Model Railroader 2003-11 pg. 80 Scale: HO Author: Iain Rice
Using a spare shelf in a bookcase, the author describes how he built several layouts that fit in the space. This installment covers how to light the shelf, how to make lightweight benchwork, preparing for roadbed and water surfaces, and assembling the benchwork.
Route to the Redwoods
Narrow Gauge And Short Line Gazette 2007-01/02 pg. 76 Scale: On3 Author: Boone Morrison
The layout is housed in a 12 by 42 feet room, with a 12-foot square workshop. The author describes some of the early stages of the construction after switching from HOn3 to On3.
San Juan Central Part 5
Model Railroader 1984-04 pg. 56 Scale: HO Author: Malcolm Furlow
In this installment Malcolm describes how he builds scenery using layers of insulation foam. Lots of final photos as well as construction photos show how he does it. He covers foam rocks, coloring foam rocks, adding ground cover, grass, and weeds, creating roads, modeling Caspia Pine trees and Caspia Aspen trees, and modeling water.
Seasonal Dust Cover
N-Scale 2003-05/06 pg. 42 Scale: (none) Author: Steven W. Schultz
Building a frame to cover a small layout protecting it from dust.
Simple, Reliable Turnout Controls
Model Railroader 2004-09 pg. 90 Scale: (none) Author: John Saxon
Manual turnout control using slide switches, that still look right.
Slip-Switch - The Start
Model Railroading 2005-02 pg. 30 Scale: HO Author: Jim Mansfield
Building the plywood support for a slip-switch.
Some Thoughts on Layout Demolition
Model Railroad News 2009-08 pg. 88 Scale: Author: Jeffrey Andreski
The author describes various situations of where he tore down a layout.
Space-saving Control Panel
Railroad Model Craftsman 1972-04 pg. 48 Scale: (none) Author: Robert Chad
The idea is to build your control panel on a slide-out drawer. The author describes how he built his with several photos and detail drawings.
Steel Stud Benchwork
Model Railroader 2000-04 pg. 104 Scale: (none) Author: Jonathan Miner
The author was looking for a lower-cost and lighter-weight solution than the typical wooden benchwork. He discovered that steel studs for home building worked just fine for him. The layout is covered with 2-inch thick foam as the layout subsurface.
Steel???
Model Railroading 2002-09 pg. 26 Scale: (none) Author: Bob Bandy
Using steel to construction a layout benchwork. Includes oil pits for walking under the layout.
Storage Cabinets
Railroad Model Craftsman 1980-12 pg. 62 Scale: (none) Author: John Nehrich
"Notrack" (a play on NTrak) storage cabinets. These cabinets were built by club members to more easily move their rolling stock and other equipment needed to set up for shows. A 3-D diagram of the cabinets is included, along with a parts list and a cutting diagram to build one from a single 4'x8' sheet of plywood.
Stretch Your Main Line With a Virtual Interlocking
Model Railroader 2006-08 pg. 68 Scale: N Author: Rich Weyand
The article describes how the layout owner built a closet to give the illusion of a great distance travelled by the trains. A wall-mounted photo serves as indicator board for timing the duration of the stay in the closet.
Styrene Backdrops and Easy Clouds
Model Railroader 2006-03 pg. 44 Scale: (none) Author: David Popp
The article covers working with styrene, creating a free-standing styrene backdrop, framing a styrene backdrop, and painting clouds with an airbrush.
Sunrise on Thather's Inlet Part 2
Railroad Model Craftsman 1972-03 pg. 38 Scale: HOn2-1/2 Author: Dave Frary & Bob Hayden
This installment focuses on how one can capture the atmosphere of an area being modeled. It is amazing how many details the authors squeezed into this small layout.
Tall Timber Railroad Part 3
Model Railroading 2005-07 pg. 41 Scale: On30 Author: Ken Smith
This installment covers backdrops, including construction, photo backdrops, and painting the backdrop.
Tall Timber Railroad Part 5
Model Railroading 2005-11 pg. 27 Scale: On30 Author: Ken Smith
This installment covers how to build the switches using Fast Tracks' kits.
Tall Timber Railroad Part 6
Model Railroading 2005-12 pg. 42 Scale: On3 Author: Ken Smith
This installment covers wiring the layout. It includes the standards the author followed on his layout, and which DCC system he chose and why.
Tall Timber Railroad Part 7
Model Railroading 2006-01 pg. 44 Scale: On30 Author: Ken Smith
This installment of the series covers scenery. It includes plastering the "ground", installing rock castings, ground foam, trees, roads, and pathways.
Tall Timber Railroad Part 8
Model Railroading 2006-02 pg. 50 Scale: (none) Author: Ken Smith
This installment covers scratchbuilt bridges and using Wooland Scenic Realistic Water.
The Challenges of Building a Layout in a Garage
Model Railroader 1987-12 pg. 52 Scale: (none) Author: Robert Smaus
The author describes the common problems encountered when placing your layout in a garage, such as bugs and dust. His weathering approach accounts for the standard shade of dust collecting in his garage.
The Christmas Challenge
Model Railroader 1991-01 pg. 136 Scale: HO Author: Tom Smiley
The author and another modeler were asked by a wife to build a model railroad that shows off some of the industries owned by her husband... no monetary restrictions. They designed and built a 43" by 10' 4" layout in just three months, which included scratchbuilt structures.
The Granite Mountain Railway Part 3
Railroad Model Craftsman 1991-07 pg. 48 Scale: HO Author: Doug Geiger
Revisits the construction of this layout, dealing with open houses, and interjects philosophy about building a large layout. Includes track plan and many photos of the layout, including the CTC panel and the helix in the garage.
The Great Western Rail & Mining Plc. Part III
N-Scale 2006-05/06 pg. 57 Scale: (none) Author: Trevor Morris
This installment focuses on laying track and ballasting. Turnout control is discussed as well as a small car he built to mark off track-side ditches accurately.
The HO Scale Madison Central
Model Railroader 1997-07 pg. 84 Scale: HO Author: Jim Hediger
A 4' by 8' layout built by the Youth Group of the NMRA's South Central Wisconsin Division. The layout has a simple main line, with two spurs for some switching.
The High Ridge Central
N Scale Railroading 2003-09/10 pg. 26 Scale: N Author: Matt Chibbaro
The author describes how he built his 2' by 4' layout. It includes detailed information about the benchwork, the legs, Woodland Scenics' foam roadbed, track installation, wiring, and some structure information and scenery details.
The Lowville & Beaver River R.R. Part 1
Railroad Model Craftsman 1991-10 pg. 81 Scale: Author: Jeff Paston
The first installment starts off researching the prototype of this railroad that starts in the foothills of the Adirondack Mountains. The article includes prototype photos, area track arrangements, and possible layout track plans.
The Mountain Park Extension
Model Railroader 1989-07 pg. 88 Scale: HO Author: Eric Lundberg
The author describes how he extended his layout and the decisions he had to make. Includes a sidebar on how he built the mountains, and another one on how ore is processed. Includes a trackplan of the new area. An interesting modeling idea is how he shows the interior of the mine shaft in the edge of the layout.
The N Scale Burlington Northern Part 4
Model Railroader 1990-05 pg. 94 Scale: N Author: Ed Hammer
Laying track and building hills. Includes the track wiring diagram, how to lay track and deal with easements, preparing turnouts, and creating bridges
The Salt Lake Route Part 4
Model Railroader 2010-04 pg. 62 Scale: Author: Dick Christianson
In this installment the author covers how he wired the small layout for DCC, built a pull-out tray for the DCC command station, how he wired the Kato turnouts, and how he connected the wire to the spade lugs. A sidebar about N-scale decoder installation is also included, but doesn't contain much information.
The Silver City Central
Model Railroader 1994-12 pg. 120 Scale: N Author: Jim Kelly
Jim focuses on building the cookie-cutter benchwork for this 3.5' x 8' layout. Includes benchwork diagrams and trackplan. Looks like a nice design that can later be integrated into a larger layout.
The Soo's Red Wing Division
Model Railroader 1994-12 pg. 88 Scale: HO Author: Pete Wicklund
The author covers building a 4' x 8' layout from benchwork design through scenery. Includes parts list, trackplan, and layout photos. Steps covered are: benchwork, tracklaying, adding turnouts, painting track, constructing scenic ridge, adding scenery, rock casting, streets and roads, and details. Includes a sidebar on flextrack.
The Stonega Branch
Railroad Model Craftsman 2007-03 pg. 90 Scale: HO Author: George Riley & John Earley
Building a 4 by 6 foot layout. This installment covers how the project came about, building the benchwork and scenic dividers, installing track, completing the backdrop, and installing the rough scenery.
The Stonega Branch Pt II
Railroad Model Craftsman 2007-04 pg. 72 Scale: HO Author: George Riley & John Earley
This installment covers installing DCC, wiring the railroad, using DCC for turnout control with Digitrax' DS64, and some more scenery work. The last part of the article covers the fifth day of construction and the fact that the layout is used in shows.
The West Switch at Cedar Falls
N Scale Railroading 2002-09/10 pg. 24 Scale: N Author: Kirk Reddie
Wood construction, making space for a bridge, ballasting, track wiring.
There Comes a Time
Model Railroading 2003-04 pg. 20 Scale: HO Author: Jim Mansfield
Installing and test bridge piers.
This Time It's S Chapter II
NASG Dispatch 2004-12 pg. 18 Scale: S Author: Jeff Madden
Jeff continues his layout construction article, this time covering building sectional benchwork, and evaluating the earlier track plan. Includes construction photos, and track plan drawing.
This Time It's S Chapter IV
NASG Dispatch 2010-04 pg. 10 Scale: S Author: Jeff Madden
Jeff continues his central West Virginia layout construction project, covering foam hills, bridges, and tunnels.
Track and Control for Jerome & Southwestern Part 2
Model Railroader 1982-06 pg. 62 Scale: HO Author: John Olson
In this installment the author covers laying the track (including tuning turnouts), installing two-cab control, building the control panel, wiring philosophies, and wiring switch machines. There are many close-up photos of the progress, complete electrical diagrams, and a scaled image of the control panel.
Track and Power for the South Plains District part 2
Model Railroader 1996-10 pg. 84 Scale: HO Author: David Barrow
This installment of the sectional layout construction covers the scenery base, tracklaying using sectional track, wiring, and rail command control
Tracks and Rocks for Our Branch Line Part 2
Model Railroader 2005-02 pg. 76 Scale: HO Author: Jim Kelly
In this installment the author discusses how to lay track, build a bridge, and cast rocks.
Trackwork on the Lowville & Beaver River Part 3
Railroad Model Craftsman 1991-12 pg. 105 Scale: HO Author: Jeff Paston
This installment focuses on laying the track and building the bridges. It also includes a sidebar on how to make molds for the bridge piers and how to make track connectors for a portable layout.
Train Set Gazette
Railroad Model Craftsman 2012-01 pg. 55 Scale: Author: (none)
This special section of the magazine describes some train sets in G, HO, and On30. It then describes how to build a basic 4'x8' trolley layout on two levels. It also describes some special accessories and how to model in narrow gauge.
Transfer Table
N-Scale 2003-07/08 pg. 50 Scale: N Author: Robert Lah
Building a transfer table that can also be flipped down so as to be out of the way. Many construction photos, a diagram, and descriptive text.
Turtle Creek Branch Line Part 4
Model Railroader 2005-04 pg. 66 Scale: HO Author: Jim Kelly
In this part of the construction series the author builds the coal mine kitbashed from two kits, and adds other details. This is the last installment of this series.