Building a T-Trak module | Paving road surfaces

Continuing the process of building an N scale (1:160) T-Trak modular layout, host David Popp turns to adding a bit of scenery. In this instance, he shares techniques for shaping up a vehicle roadway. This can be a bit messy, so it makes perfect sense to tackle the effort before any detailed scenery work gets […]

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Build an N scale drive-in theater

Star Trek plays on a drive-in theater screen

Over nearly 40 years I’ve built seven train layouts. I started out with N scale, then discovered large scale trains. I’ve built both indoor and outdoor large scale layouts over the years. I loved my backyard garden railroad but had to give it up due to structural issues and age. So I returned to my […]

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10 snowy places you could model

As snowflakes whirl in the sky, a black coal train emerges from a tunnel into a white Rocky Mountain scene

Looking to take your modeling techniques to new heights while adding a cool factor to your layout? How about the unique challenge of recreating a winter wonderland full of ice and, of course, snow. From railroading landmarks to end-to-end railroads, consider these 10 snowy places you could model. If you have another place in mind, […]

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How to model snow on a model railroad layout

A geared steam locomotive leads a train onto a wood trestle covered with snow

Although most model railroads are set in the verdant summer or colorful autumn, the snow-covered landscapes of a northern winter offer an unmatched visual drama. From paint to grout to powdered stone to commercial modeling products, there are many possible answers to the question of how to model snow on a model railroad layout. Modelers […]

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How to ballast Kato N scale Unitrack

A steam locomotive sits on a diorama base with ballasted track.

I can’t deny that I love Kato Unitrack. Its ease of operation, solid electrical contact, top-notch quality, and quick setup time make it irresistible to me. And unlike other plastic roadbed track brands and products, it has more prototypical dimensions. But there’s also no denying that straight out of the box it looks toy-like, a […]

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Design a toy train layout

Toy trains on track

Design a toy train layout — O, S, or Standard/Wide gauge — it requires above all making one fundamental decision. Each operator must decide what sort of look he or she wants the layout to have. To be specific, each modeler has to figure out the extent to which the layout, regardless of size or […]

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Trains.com Video BONUS | Behind Spaces and Places

Master Model Railroader Gerry Leone has been one of Trains.com’s most recognized and most prolific contributors for many years running. From the pages of various Model Railroader magazines, special-issues, and books, to the numerous video series he’s hosted for Model Railroader Video Plus, Trains.com, Trains.com Video, and Model Railroader DVDs, you’ll find he’s all about […]

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