Here are some tips for designing your model train layout.
What you need to do first, if you decide you want to build a layout for your own model train, is to ask yourself a few questions:
* What kind of setting do you want for your train? Are you going to try to recreate a real train line, perhaps a historical one, or will your setting be entirely made-up?
* What size of layout do you want? How much room do you have in your house? And where in your house is this train layout going to be located? Is this a place where it is likely to be undisturbed by kids or pets, or do you have to take the possibility of breakage into account?
* How skillful are you in using tools to build the various components of your setting? What is your budget like, if you prefer to buy what is needed? If you aren't too handy, and you don't have a lot of money, don't despair! You might not be able to create a realistic, historically accurate model of a particular train line, but you can certainly build a fun setting from whatever materials you have on hand.
Once you have answered these questions, you must next get to work on figuring out how you're going to put that layout together. If you have decided to recreate a real train line, your next step is to research that line and find out as much about it as you can. How will you need to paint your engines? What kinds of decals will you need? Will you need to make them, or is there a hobby or model train shop that sells them? And what stretch of track are you going to create? Any special buildings or geographical features you will need to make or buy? If you are creating a fantasy setting, you just need to dream it up as you go along, but be sure to take lots of notes.
After you've done your research and found out where to obtain all the necessary items, you will then need to give some thought to setting up the track itself. You should first set it up by just placing the tracks end-to-end without actually attaching them - this is to see whether you have enough track and couplers for your design. If everything looks good, you can then attach the tracks, and either pin (like using little railroad spikes) or glue them to the surface material (usually plywood) you will use for your layout. If using glue, let it dry overnight, and be sure to use a few pins to add stability. If using pins, pull the tracks slightly to make sure the pins are secure. Make sure all of your track is the same gauge; otherwise the train might derail.
Once the track is all laid out and in place, you can next get to work on the setting. Using your research skills (if designing a realistic setting) or your imagination, get to work to make a lovely setting for your train. When it's finally done, fire up that engine and take your train on a ride made all the more thrilling by all the hard work you've put into making it all your own!
