It’s been written about a lot before, but here are some more ballasting tips for tubular track. It can make your right-of-way look more realistic, but the bottom line is have fun and don’t stress about it. Don’t overdo It is pretty common to completely fill in the area between two tracks with a bed […]
Section: Expert Tips
Methods to wiring your toy train layout
It isn’t an exaggeration to observe that the CTT staff is frequently asked basic questions such as “How do I connect my power and lockon to the track?” However, we get even more questions related to adding operational capability beyond running one train in a circle – taking a step beyond the starter outfit. Aside […]
Easy project: Swapping loads on flatcar models
Roger Kujawa and Bruce Brantner came up with the idea of using false floors to secure heavy equipment and other loads on their HO flatcars. This allows them to run properly loaded or empty flatcars during operating sessions on Roger’s Atlantic & Great Western RR. Jim Forbes Roger used the wood deck as a template […]
DIY graffiti for modern model railroad freight cars
Like it or not, graffiti is part of the modern railroad scene. Matt Snell shares his techniques for adding different styles of graffiti to rolling stock using paint markers and an airbrush. All photos by Matt Snell. Matt Snell Fig. 1 Basic graffiti. Drawn or spray-painted lettering can be easily re-created on smooth-side cars and […]
Details make the difference on your layout
Follow along and build the CT&T, a 4 x 8 logging-themed project layout. The staff will walk you through the process, including working with foam board, laying track, wiring, scenery, and much more. Track plans using Lionel FasTrack, Atlas O 21st Century track, and MTH RealTrax are included. This package contains 31 pages from six […]
Kitbashing strategies for a feed mill
Tony describes how he kitbashed the feed mill, pictured on the left, of his portable O scale Wingate model railroad. Using parts from two Atlas O Ace Feed & Supply kits, Tony rearranged the side walls and added a second story turned sideways to create a more realistic footprint and to disguise the kit’s all-too-familiar […]
Stuff We Use: Xuron Universal Wire Stripper
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Whether installing a decoder or working on the layout, a sharp wire cutter and striper can make any electronics project go faster and easier. Learn how as senior editor Dana Kawala demonstrates the Xuron Universal Wire Cutter. […]
Stuff We Use: How to use Micro Sol and Micro Set
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page It can be difficult to get decals to conform to an irregular surface, such as when placing a sign decal on a brick textured wall of a plastic stucture kit. Associate editor Steve Otte shows you how to tackle this task by using […]
Stuff We Use How to use a scribing tool
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Take your model structure building to the next level with a scribing tool. Watch as Group Technical Editor Cody Grivno shows you how to use a scribing tool, such as this one from the Kalmbach Hobby Store, to blend the mortar lines of […]
Stuff We Use: Magnetic snap and glue set
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page Do you sometimes feel like you need an extra hand when assembling a structure kit? Watch Group Technical Editor Cody Grivno as he demonstrates how to use this magnetic snap and glue set from the Kalmbach Hobby Store. It’s designed to hold wall […]
Expert Scratchbuilding Tips with Renee Grosser: Part 4, Structure finishing tips
To complete her O scale scratchbuilding series, modeler Renee Grosser shares her technique for adding realistic roof shingles, chimney fixtures, and window/door details to the rustic farmhouse. […]
Expert Scratchbuilding Tips with Renee Grosser: Part 4, Structure finishing tips
Having trouble viewing this video? Please visit our Video FAQ page To complete her O scale scratchbuilding series, modeler Renee Grosser shares her technique for adding realistic roof shingles, chimney fixtures, and window/door details to the rustic farmhouse. […]