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A Global Guide to Train Tourist Spots

Trains have been transporting people and goods across the globe for centuries, offering a unique and often breathtaking way to experience the world. From iconic routes that wind through towering... View Content

5 Common Model Railroading Mistakes

Model railroading is a creative and rewarding hobby, but it can also be challenging when getting started. There are many common mistakes that new model railroaders make. However, by being... View Content

A Guide to Model Railroad Scales

Understanding model railroad scales is the first step in choosing what kind of model you want to create. It will help lay the foundation for choosing the right equipment and... View Content

10 Expert Tips for Laying Track on Your Model Train Layout

Building and designing your layout is an exciting endeavor. However, one of the most critical aspects of creating a realistic and functional layout is laying the track properly. Whether you're... View Content

Railroad Realism

Thanks for signing up for the Model Railroad Academy newsletter. Click any of the thumbnails below to watch our Realism collection. Adding Realism to Model Railroad Building Interiors... View Content

Railroad Realism

Thanks for signing up for the Model Railroad Academy newsletter. Click any of the thumbnails below to watch our Realism collection. Adding Realism to Model Railroad Building Interiors... View Content

Master Guide to Creating Model Trees

Thanks for signing up for the Master Guide to Creating Model Trees. Click any video thumbnail below to start learning! Be sure to save or bookmark this page to access... View Content

Ideas for Unique Layout Concepts

In this installment, I’d like to suggest various types of railroad layouts (in no particular order) from which you can derive inspiration for your concept: Club layout: I’ve visited some... View Content

Assigning a Theme for Your Model Railroad Layout

The next installment in our ongoing series on planning and building a model railroad layout is all about layout themes. In case you missed our previous installment on track configurations,... View Content

Choosing Model Railroad Track Configurations

There are many factors to consider before we start building a model railroad layout. I know of many model railroaders who have started building without much of a plan and... View Content

So You Want to Build a Model Railroad Layout?

I think model railroading is a fantastic hobby for many reasons, not the least of which is it gives an individual the opportunity to learn about many different things. You... View Content

Getting Started with Sectional Track

In this class, you’ll see how easy it is to get started with model railroading in any of the major scales using sectional track. The idea of using sectional track... View Content

Model Paints and Tools

Model painting and the associated tools are an essential part of our model railroad hobby. In this class, your instructor Doug Hodgdon will show you the assortment of paints, solvents,... View Content

Creating Rock Scenery Class

A key component in turning a model railroad track plan into a layout is realistic scenery. Regardless of what part of the world you model, there is a high probability... View Content

Techniques for Spectacular Scenery 5: LIVE Event

Join us for an MRA PLATINUM LIVE event with Ron Marsh, who will discuss the Techniques for Spectacular Scenery PLATINUM LIVE Course and answer any questions you may have. More... View Content

Techniques for Spectacular Scenery Week 4: Grass and Trees

In this session you will learn how to apply and color rocks and other ground texture to your scenery base in preparation for scenic details. You will learn about a... View Content

Techniques for Spectacular Scenery 3: Water Effects

In this session you will learn how to apply and color rocks and other ground texture to your scenery base in preparation for scenic details. You will learn about a... View Content

Techniques for Spectacular Scenery 2: Rocks, Texture, and Color

In this session you will learn how to apply and color rocks and other ground texture to your scenery base in preparation for scenic details. You will learn about a... View Content

Techniques for Spectacular Scenery 1: Scenery Base

In this session you will learn the importance of a good scenery base. You will get an overview of several different types of scenery base and a variety of materials... View Content

Techniques for Spectacular Scenery

Nothing has a greater impact on the realistic look of a model railroad than scenery. Whether your layout is a small diorama, a 4’ x 8’ starter layout, or a... View Content

Finishing the Apache Paper Mill Scene

I had to finish up the new Apache Railway scene for my friend Dave’s Chicago Denver & Pacific layout. This required the Walthers Kraft Plant in addition to the power... View Content

Building a Paper Mill for the Apache Railway

I received a request from my friend Dave to build a paper mill for his new Apache Railway. He needed the mill for the town of Snowflake, Arizona, so I... View Content

Building a Power Plant for the Apache Paper Mill

My friend Dave needed a power plant to go with his new Apache paper mill that he was adding to his Apache Railway branch, so I offered to combine his... View Content

7 Household Items You Can Use for Your Layout

Thanks for signing up for the Model Railroad Academy newsletter. Click any of the thumbnails below to learn more about these household items! Disused Steamer Parts Made from Cotton Swabs... View Content