| We all make mistakes when creating a model train | | | | wall (there are exceptions). A backdrop can provide |
| layout, but the important thing is to learn from them, or | | | | depth and interest. |
| avoid making mistakes in the first place. | | | | Model railroading is a wonderful hobby in so many |
| One of the most common mistakes is to choose the | | | | ways. It involves everything from carpentry, scenery |
| wrong scale when getting started in the hobby of | | | | design, through to basic electrical work. Some clever |
| model railroading. Talk with others in the hobby - we all | | | | model railroaders have constructed hideaway layouts |
| have our preferences on scales (otherwise known as | | | | where the track on a board which is attached to a |
| biased opinions). | | | | cable and pulley system lowered from the ceiling. |
| You will need to do plenty of research and measure | | | | Obviously the roof structure needs to be able to |
| how much space you have available. Many beginner | | | | support the heavy weight of lifting the layout up and |
| railroaders start collecting one scale of model trains | | | | down. If it is strong enough, then this may be a clever |
| only to find that there are more accessories in another | | | | space saving solution. |
| scale. They either start all over or start mixing scales | | | | Most things can be learned from watching others and |
| (ouch!). | | | | a bit of trial and error. Books like my Model Train Help |
| Have a picture in your own mind before you start on | | | | PDF Book are packed with clever ideas and can |
| what you want your layout to represent before you | | | | prove invaluable as can networking at your local model |
| rush out and buy anything. Do you want diesel or | | | | train club. |
| steam locomotives, DC or DCC, a one level, or | | | | The important thing is to enjoy your hobby and take |
| multi-level layout, or maybe an around the wall shelf | | | | your time getting things how you want them. No two |
| layout? There are so many questions to ask and it is | | | | model railroad layouts are exactly the same, so you |
| better to answer them sooner rather than later. | | | | can be creative and add your own person touch to |
| By the way, a shelf layout is usually built around the | | | | your layout. |
| wall and typically sticks out about 12 inches from the | | | | |