How to Build a Model Railroad

Model railroading is a hobby that develops slowly. When you build a model railroad, you can start with a simple layout and add to it over time. One of the most enjoyable aspects is the planning and building of a railway that mimics an actual railroad system.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Paper
• Pencil
• Plywood
• Saw
• Hammer or drill
• Nails or screws
• Track
• Landscaping and scenery materials
• Model houses and buildings
• Miniature cars, people, and accessories

1. Get inspired by visiting model railway shows, hobby and model shops, and friends who have model railroads.

2. Research the various styles, gauges, and brands of model trains. Consider how much you want to spend and what you want the overall layout to look like. Check out trains, buildings and scenery on eBay and model train websites and catalogues.

3. Select the area in your home where you will build a model railroad and measure the space.

4. Plan the track layout, scenery and buildings. Start by sketching out ideas and possible track layouts. Overestimate the space requirements and allow for future growth of the model railroad. Decide whether you want a particular theme, such as a model of the town where you live or a specific rail line. Search the Internet for layouts and ideas.

5. Construct a platform. Plywood is a good choice for building a platform because it's easy to cut and drill. Be sure that the platform is sturdy and braced to avoid swaying.

6. Design and begin to install landscaping and scenery. Valleys, rivers, and mountains should be in place first. They can be constructed of wire mesh molded over wooden supports and covered with plaster or paper mache. Many specialty products are available to aid in scenery construction. Take time to make landscaping as realistic as possible.

7. Lay out tracks before attaching them. Decide whether to glue or pin the tracks in place. Clip the sections of the track together and glue or pin securely until the whole railway is laid out. Allow the track to sit overnight until the glue is set.

8. Add sidings and stations, houses and buildings. Construct these from plans or kits. Remember that you are developing a community and countryside, and all buildings should have a reason for being where they are. Add cars, people, and other accessories.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure the platform is the right height for a realistic viewing angle, about 40 inches for adults and 26 inches for children. If children will take part in the building and running of the railway, consider building a narrow step for them to stand on, or a lower platform dedicated to the children's trains.
• Compare the different gauges available before you purchase and build your model railroad. "N" is one of the smallest gauges. "G" is a large scale often used outdoors in garden railways. The most popular gauges in the United States are "O" and "HO."
• You can choose materials from nature and around the house to use in your landscaping. Stones make good boulders, sand can be used to make roadways, and dried coffee grounds look like dirt patches. You can make trees from bottle brushes, wire and steel wool and pieces of sponge.