Structures
Fill out your layout with better buildings and scene components. Whether you need a sturdy bridge for your high mountain pass or a styrene high-rise for your downtown cityscape, these are essential techniques for creating more realistic structures on your layout.
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6:26Model railroad lighting is an important element of a layout and can help depict the movement from day to night during operation. In this video, learn some tips for enhancing your scenes with lighting featuring modeler Jim Eudaly. A lamppost is a great addition to nighttime model railroad lighting. To make a lamppost, start with…
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14:10National Model Railroad Association Master Model Railroader Gerry Leone notes that many plastic structure kits come with simulated wood loading docks, but it is difficult to make the plastic look like wood. In this video, Leone demonstrates how to scratch build a loading dock using real wood. First determine the size of the dock, docks…
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4:03Decals have the ability to completely alter the look of a model structure or car. They’re a simple way to add detail to your layout and most are inexpensive. If you are looking to add decals to your model railroad layout, you may want to consider implementing some weathering techniques to make the decals look…
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6:27NMRA Master Model Railroader Gerry Leone says, “Track is a model too, so it only makes sense to make your track look as good as your rolling stock, your locomotives and as your structures.” In this video, Gerry shares five easy techniques for weathering your track. Gerry provides a step-by-step tutorial for a few of…
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11:19Replicating realistic brick buildings may seem daunting due to the extremely unique characteristics of the structural material. Brick buildings have been around for centuries and have endured the test of time. Over the years, bricks begin to narrate history through deterioration, cracking, and erosion. With that in mind, it’s very important to detail model brick…
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5:44It takes extra time and care to make your model railroad layout stand out. Detailing makes a complete difference in the final outcome of your layouts appearance. Detailing can be meticulous, but it’s definitely worth the effort. To help you improve your layout, NMRA Master Model Railroader Gerry Leone offers a step-by-step tutorial on detailing…
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2:29The Hoosac Valley Railroad was built in 1959 and is now several decades old yet is still an advanced example of fine modeling. Although the main track line has stayed fairly consistent, Dick Elwell is constantly thinking of ways to update the layout. He continues to incorporate new technology and new techniques into Hoosac Valley…
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4:52Dick worked for a phone company for many years, so it’s no wonder why his model railroad wiring is so precise and neat. He paid special attention to the utility poles on the Hoosac Valley model railroad and developed fine skills when it comes to making them. Scratchbuilding Utility Poles In the conclusion of the…
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4:39Each store bought model structure kit requires planning, assembly, painting and detailing. For an impressive model railroad display, the goal is to transform the kit to appear as realistic as possible. To avoid the plastic sheen, you can’t simply take it straight out of the box and place it on your layout as is. There…
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