Inexpensive
Ways to Make Trees and Ground Cover For Your Model Railroad Layout
One
of the most exciting aspects of model railroading is creating the
scenery to enhance the landscape of a layout. The scenery is what
adds the personality and interest to a layout to make it truly
unique.
There
are all sorts of scenery accessories you can purchase from online
model train stores, but many things can be made from everyday items
around the home. You do not always need to spend money when there are
things around you for free.
Twigs
from your back yard are a good example. They can be used for making
small trees and shrubs, or be cut to resemble logs. There is no need
to paint them, because they are already the right color. Small wooden
meat skewers (from the supermarket) can also be used to make logs and
they are very inexpensive to buy.
The
same goes for adding grass to your layout. You can purchase some very
good products such as "Static Grass Flock" to provide
ground cover, or you can make your own. Some model railroaders use a
mix of ready-to-use grasses from the hobby store, and combine this,
with there own home made grass recipe.
Model Railroad Scenery How to Add Excitement on Your Model Train
Layout
Creating
realistic scenery is the part that pulls your model railroad layout
together and brings it to
life. Little details can make a big
difference, as many spectators will spend a lot of time watching the
trains operate, so they will get to notice the little things that add
to the overall effect. Your visitors will see the vegetation that
grows alongside the track and notice the signs on the buildings and
the weathering techniques used on the trains.
Tunnels
and a bridge will add interest to a model train layout. You will need
a rail station too. Put operating signals at crossings. Use either a
set of crossing flashers or a flasher and drop-arm combo. Kids (and
adults too) are mesmerized by the 'lights and action' items.
Other
ideas like a working grain elevator, water tower, coal loaders, or a
control towers help complete a scene.
Be creative, but specific, when
making scenery for your model railroad layout.
Make
sure any vehicles and rail crossings are from the right era. One idea
is black washing the grilles and hubcaps to add depth and realism to
the scene. Using a small brush you can also paint taillights, parking
lights and door handles if needed. Then consider taking the cars
apart and install drivers and passengers. Nothing looks more unreal
on a layout than vehicles seemingly driven by invisible ghosts!
A
Key To Keeping Trains In Mint Condition Protected From Dirt, Dust And
Grime
Model
railway locomotives and rolling stock all need to be kept clean and
well-maintained, as does the track-work and layout in general. It can
be a constant job to keep things operating efficiently and protecting
trains and structures from dirt, grime and dust build up. Some
veterans in the hobby give the scenery and track a light spray with
distilled water as one method of maintaining it in good condition.
There are various other tasks including track cleaning and locomotive
lubrication that need to be done periodically. When the tracks are
dirty the trains will pick up the dirt and dust and this can
potentially cause big problems. Leaving locomotives sitting on track
for days, weeks, or months on end can also be problematic.
One
of the most important accessories in the model train hobby has to be
model train storage boxes. These boxes are a must in order to keep
your train in mint condition.
There
are various options, the first being to make your own storage system.
It depends how fussy you want to be whether you make them out of
wood, cardboard, or buy ready-made plastic containers. The important
thing is to protect your trains from damage and dust.
