In this episode James McNab shares his techniques for using backdrops, fascias, and visual blocks. See how these features control the viewing angles and make the HO scale Hills Line, or any other layout, appear much larger than it actually is! […]
Section: Layout Builds
Off The Rails: Passing on the savings, Episode 51
Host Gerry Leone has been saving up all year to make this special episode of Off The Rails for you! Sit back and enjoy the BONUS modeling tips and tricks he’s squirreled away from previous episodes of his helpful, exclusive series. […]
It’s My Railroad with Steve Brown: Kitbash turned scratchbuild, Ep. 17
When host Steve Brown wanted to transform a grain elevator kit into a Port Smith N scale cement plant, he initially thought it would be a straightforward process. Upon further review and some lessons learned, he’s now launched into a full-blown scratchbuilding project — done the Regular Guy way! […]
It’s My Railroad with Steve Brown: Weathering workout, Ep. 16
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Host Steve Brown is ready to add weathering effects to several parts, pieces, and places on his Port Smith N scale (1:160) harbor scene. Follow along as he shares his Regular Guy techniques for applying realistic weathering effects using pre-mixed washes, chalks, and […]
The Hills Line with James McNab: Track tips & tricks, Episode 3
James McNab, our newest Contributing Editor, shows viewers that trackwork can be realistically enhanced like any other model on a layout. In this case, James reveals helpful insights for detailing and painting track on his HO scale Hills Line. […]
It’s My Railroad with Steve Brown: Crane on the move, Ep. 15
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page A wave of change is rolling into Steve Brown’s N scale Port Smith harbor! When Steve introduces a kitbashed HO scale traveling crane into the dock scene, he has to make a few tweaks to accommodate the addition. But it’s nothing that a […]
The Hills Line with James McNab: The magic of mockups, Episode 2
Contributing Editor James McNab launches into his new, Hills Line HO scale layout development. In this episode, he focuses on establishing a practical footprint for the various rail-served complexes and industries that help keep the wheels of commerce (and railroad operation) turning. Don’t miss James’ take on making short-term structures with a purpose! […]
The Hills Line with James McNab: Introducing the IAIS Hills Industrial Spur in HO scale
In this MRVP exclusive series from James McNab, you’ll get to see the start of an all-new HO scale layout. When a basement plumbing disaster forced the demolition of his established Grimes Lines, James seized the opportunity to create something new…and share his construction efforts of The Hills Line, a 12 x 22ft HO scale model […]
It’s My Railroad with Steve Brown: That’s so lit!, Ep. 14
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page MRVP’s Steve Brown is looking to add some depth, dimension, and interest to his N scale Port Smith harbor buildings. In other words, Steve wants his structures to get lit! Follow along to see how he uses LED lighting components to highlight […]
Off The Rails: Not-so-big Birthday Bash, Episode 50
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Would you believe it? Gerry made it to 5-0! Fifty episodes of Off The Rails, that is. Join his not-so-big (sans balloons and noisemakers) 4th anniversary party, where he addresses questions and comments from the previous 12 episodes — all from a new […]
Off The Rails: Swingers, lifters, and setters, Episode 49
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Gerry’s former Bona Vista Rwy. HO scale model railroad included a swinging gate section that allowed operators to enter the room and the layout itself. Follow along as he shares how to keep trackwork aligned on moveable benchwork that swings, lifts, or sets […]
It’s My Railroad with Steve Brown: Scenery-making marathon, Ep. 13
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Host Steve Brown truly covers lots of ground (pun intended) in this episode! Watch as he uses “Regular Guy” techniques to add color, texture, and even trees to work along and above the banks of his N scale layout’s harbor scene. […]