Modeling Small Layouts features 14 articles with step-by-step guides, 4 all-new track plans, 180+ photos, and many expert tips to help you take your layout to the next level. Learn new and time-tested techniques to show you how to take small N and HO scale layouts from benchwork to completion.
SMALL LAYOUTS ARE AN IDEAL FIT
Modeling Small Layouts
Meet the MR&T STATE LINE layout • The Milwaukee, Racine & Troy is now available in N scale
Building L-GIRDER benchwork • A flexible layout support system for railroads large and small
Smooth track and wiring THAT WORKS • Building a model railroad that operates reliably starts with the rails and how they are powered
SCENERY TIPS you can count on • Simple steps to take your layout from bare plywood to showstopping scenes
GOING SOUTHBOUND • The Winston-Salem Southbound is a compact HO scale layout packed with operation
RAILS FOR THE TAR BRANCH • Benchwork and handlaid track for the HO scale Winston-Salem Southbound
FINISHING THE TAR BRANCH • Backdrop, lighting, and scenery for the HO scale Winston-Salem Southbound project
4 small track plans from the MR staff • Model railroading ideas and inspiration come in many shapes and sizes
Crookston, Minn., circa 1972
A single-industry 4 x 8 layout
Chicago in 3 x 5 feet
Tracks in the Philly streets
Meet the EAGLE MOUNTAIN PROJECT LAYOUT • Learn how to build Model Railroader’s 2016 project layout, a 4 x 6-foot HO scale railroad
From cardboard to mountains • Making mountains for MR’s project layout with plaster gauze on a cardboard web
HOW TO CAST AND COLOR PLASTER ROCKS • Rubber molds and Hydrocal create realistic rocks
BUILD A TRESTLE OVER A DRY WASH • Commercial and natural groundcover help complete the scene
CAST A PLASTER LINER FOR A TUNNEL • Cast a dark abyss with just a styrene form and Hydrocal
INSTALL A TORTOISE SWITCH MOTOR • Control a turnout remotely with a stationary DCC decoder
Stow-away staging • Don’t have room for a staging yard? Here are some space-saving solutions