Decide what time period your train scene is set in.
Step2
Imagine a geography for the scene you've designed - rural, urban, mountains, plains.
Step3
Go to the library for books on the area, or that particular train line if you've re-created a real train scene.
Step4
Consider the purpose of your train. Is it a passenger train, a freight train, a coal carrier?
Step5
Choose some figures for people meeting the train. A freight train will be met by people in work clothes and by trucks. A passenger train will be met by passengers: people in suits and with children.
Step6
Find some model cars from the period if your scene has railroad crossings.
Step7
Find some animals or trees at the hobby store if the scene is rural. Deer or nesting birds set the scene well.
Step8
Find some buildings and arrange activity on and around them if the scene is urban. To avoid an empty feeling, concentrate on people and not just buildings.
Step9
Place gaps of regular track between track accessories such as bridges, crossings and turnouts to keep the scene realistic.
Tips & Warnings
A train station is always a great accessory. It makes the scene look more active.
