Building A Model Railroad Step By Step

Model Railroader's managing editor David Popp tells the complete construction story of his N scale Naugatuck River Valley layout using techniques any model railroader can use! More than 30 short projects from building benchwork to realistic operation.

Build an expandable N scale railroad in a few easy steps. Includes instructions on constructing framework, laying track, building scenery, and assembling structures.

Design a freelanced or prototype-based model railroad by selecting a time period, modeling geography, creating a roster, using graphics, and following paint schemes.

Bring your layout to the next level with a complete overview of modeling railroad scenery from modeler and Model Railroader Video Plus host Kathy Millatt. In this "scenery makers bible" you'll learn how to use the latest techniques and materials, as well as time-tested "classic" methods for modeling mountains, rivers, forests, railroad rights-of-way, towns, and cities that occupy any modeler's layout. Perfect for everyone from a beginner to an expert modeler, this book includes: Step-by-step photo sections to show different methods used to build scenery. Details about techniques and materials to advance your modeling. Unique insights, tips, and tricks into layout detailing. And more! Take your layout from bare plywood or foamboard to a detailed scene that will surround your model trains!

There's a nostalgia associated with model trains and railroading -- even if it's unspoken. Railroads take us back to an earlier era. A more basic time. When spending a week or more on a train was seen as a luxury -- an event in itself -- not at as merely a mode of transportation. You've probably already scouted some model railroad shows. You've no doubt recognized the camaraderie and the passion these folks have. And yes, you're interested in becoming a part of that. "The Wonderful World of Model Trains" will help you do just that! It's a comprehensive guide to model railroading written for someone who is new to this hobby, starting with some basic "train knowledge" & terminologies, and continuing on to the more detailed aspects of the hobby. And yes, this hobby can indeed get quite detailed. And that tends to be intimidating to some people. The beauty of this hobby is that you can get involved at just the level you care too. You'll discover that every model railroader is in it for the love of the trains and the history. The vast majority of us are not out to make a fast buck from our interests. Here's some of the things you'll learn in "The Wonderful World of Model Trains": - How to create stunning terrain in your scenery with these 3 simple techniques... - Different scales, gauges, standards in the world of model railroading and what they all mean... - 2 simple keys (that are right in front of your eyes) to build your own benchwork... - WARNING: 3 things you should never do when it comes to wiring... - A pennies on the dollar approach to finding model train parts... - How to avoid derailing problems... - 3 proven steps to running multiple trains on one track... - 6 time tested and proven strategies for laying out train tracks... - When to add onto your set with locomotives and rolling stock... - 7 everyday but often overlooked tips and tricks for building the best layouts for your scenery... - How to do general maintenance on your model trains and tracks... - And much more...

Covers freight and passenger operations, route design, and contemporary railroading operations. The step-by-step design techniques and operation-oriented track plans also make it easy to create your own realistic model railroad.

Build Big and Small Industries for Your Model Railroad provides hands-on modeling tips and techniques, step-by-step photos, and how-to advice for adding a variety of industries to a layout. This book features 17 projects in all dating back to the steam era to present day - ranging from simple to complex and large to small. Beginners will learn how to build a kit and integrate it to a scene, while more experienced modelers will learn how to kitbash and scratchbuild a structure and add it to a complete industry. Written by top experts in the field, including Pelle Soeborg, Gerry Leone, and Tony Koester, this wide-ranging book features the following industries: Cement plant. Cold storage warehouse. Local oil dealer. Asphalt transfer terminal. Brewery complex. Propane bulk dealer. Old-time factory. And more! Build Big and Small Industries for Your Model Railroad is the ideal book for all modelers who are looking for ways to add industries to their layouts!