| There are many different types of model train layouts | | | | and 2x4s for the frame and legs. You may also want |
| to choose from, and you may even have some ideas | | | | to consider making storage areas under the table for |
| of your own. There are a number of websites that | | | | extra supplies, and accessories. Before you do |
| show photos and videos of different layouts, and if | | | | anything else, once the benchwork is complete, sit |
| you aren't sure, or haven't decided what kind of layout | | | | down and graph out your design layout including where |
| you want to do, then these can be an ideal starting | | | | your track is going to be as well as scenery, |
| point for your own. The kind of layout really depends | | | | mountains, or water features.. This can give you a |
| on the scale of train you are using because this can | | | | better idea of where you are going to need to drill |
| determine the size of your scenery as well as buildings | | | | holes to hide the power wiring, and any tubes for your |
| and dimensions. It can also play a big part in the actual | | | | water feature pumps. |
| size of the layout itself and whether you are going to | | | | In your excitement to try and set up your model train |
| use a smaller benchwork for your design. | | | | layouts, don't get ahead of yourself. You want to put |
| No matter what kind of model train layouts you decide | | | | together your layout in layers, checking each level to |
| on, the most important place to start is with a solid | | | | make sure it is working properly before moving on the |
| base. This is called the benchwork, and choosing the | | | | next layer. This way there aren't any complications |
| right one is important. There are benchwork kits | | | | later making you have to start over. When setting up |
| available or you can create your own. Kits are good if | | | | your track, make sure to run your train without cars to |
| you need to be able to move your model train set up | | | | make sure the engine runs smoothly and the turns are |
| around or if you are taking it to hobby shows, because | | | | not too sharp before securing it to the benchwork. It is |
| they come apart and can be transported. Ones you | | | | also a good idea to have some kind of access to |
| make yourself can take more time, but you can also | | | | tunnels and mountain scenes so if there is a |
| have a lot more flexibility when it comes to overall | | | | malfunction here you can retrieve your train. |
| track design. | | | | You can build the best model train layouts imaginable if |
| When building your own base, make sure you start | | | | you just take your time and get it right the first time. |
| with a solid foundation. Model train layouts are going to | | | | Another thing to keep in mind is that if you are building |
| be heavy once they are all put together, and you don't | | | | a portable layout, that the track section breaks are |
| want some flimsy piece of plywood on a couple of | | | | over the places where your benchwork comes apart, |
| stands because this is going to break and be totally | | | | and you set up your layout so you can take it apart |
| unstable. You want to start with at least 3/8" plywood | | | | without ruining the layout itself. |