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5 Top Model Train Accessories for 2025: A Family-Friendly Guide for Beginners

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Model railroading is an exciting and rewarding hobby, and the accessories you choose can make all the difference in bringing your layout to life. As technology advances, new tools and features emerge every year, enhancing both realism and functionality. In 2025, several innovative accessories have become must-haves for hobbyists looking to elevate their layouts. This family-friendly article explores the top five model train accessories for 2025, perfect for beginners and families alike.

1. Digital Command Control (DCC) Systems

What It Is:

Digital Command Control (DCC) systems allow you to operate multiple trains independently on the same track. In 2025, DCC systems have become more user-friendly, with wireless connectivity and app-based controls.

Why It’s a Must-Have:

  • Ease of Use: Modern DCC systems feature intuitive interfaces that make it easy for beginners to learn.
  • Enhanced Control: You can control speed, direction, lighting, and sound effects for each train individually.
  • Family Fun: App-based controls allow multiple users to operate trains simultaneously, making it a great activity for families.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Start with entry-level DCC systems like the NCE Power Cab or Digitrax Zephyr Express.
  • Use online tutorials and videos to learn how to program locomotives.

2. LED Lighting Kits

What It Is:

LED lighting kits are used to illuminate buildings, streetlights, and train interiors on your layout. In 2025, smart LED kits with programmable features have become increasingly popular.

Why It’s a Must-Have:

  • Realism: Lighting adds depth and atmosphere to your layout, especially during nighttime scenes.
  • Energy Efficiency: LEDs consume less power and last longer than traditional bulbs.
  • Customizable: Programmable kits allow you to adjust brightness and color for different scenes.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Use warm white LEDs for indoor lighting and cool white LEDs for outdoor areas.
  • Experiment with dimming effects to create realistic shadows.

3. Sound Modules

What It Is:

Sound modules provide realistic audio effects like train whistles, engine noises, station announcements, and ambient sounds. In 2025, sound modules have become more compact and versatile.

Why It’s a Must-Have:

  • Immersion: Sound effects bring your layout to life by adding an auditory dimension.
  • Customizable: Many sound modules allow you to upload custom audio files.
  • Family-Friendly: Kids love hearing realistic train sounds as they operate the layout.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Start with pre-programmed sound modules like those from SoundTraxx or MRC.
  • Place speakers strategically around your layout for even sound distribution.

4. Static Grass Applicators

What It Is:

Static grass applicators are tools used to create realistic grassy textures on your layout. In 2025, rechargeable applicators with adjustable voltage settings are trending.

Why It’s a Must-Have:

  • Realism: Static grass stands upright when applied correctly, mimicking real grass.
  • Versatility: Applicators can be used for fields, lawns, or overgrown areas.
  • Easy to Use: Modern applicators are lightweight and beginner-friendly.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Practice on a small area before applying static grass to larger sections of your layout.
  • Mix different shades of grass fibers for a more natural look.

5. Modular Scenery Kits

What It Is:

Modular scenery kits include pre-made components like hills, tunnels, rivers, and bridges that can be easily assembled and customized. These kits have become more detailed and lightweight in 2025.

Why It’s a Must-Have:

  • Time-Saving: Modular kits simplify the process of building complex terrain features.
  • Customizable: You can paint and add details to match your layout’s theme.
  • Family-Friendly: Assembly is straightforward and fun for all ages.

Tips for Beginners:

  • Choose kits that match the scale of your layout (e.g., HO or N scale).
  • Combine modular components with natural materials like rocks or twigs for added realism.

How These Accessories Enhance Your Layout

These top accessories not only improve the visual appeal of your model railroad but also make it more interactive and engaging. Here’s how they contribute:

  1. Realism: DCC systems and sound modules create lifelike operations that mimic real-world railroads. LED lighting adds atmosphere while static grass enhances scenery detail.
  2. Functionality: Modular kits save time while allowing you to focus on creative aspects of your layout.
  3. Family Fun: All five accessories offer opportunities for collaboration—whether it’s programming trains or assembling scenery components together as a family.

Beginner Tips for Accessory Integration

If you’re new to model railroading, here are some tips to help you incorporate these accessories into your layout:

  1. Start Small: Focus on one accessory at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
  2. Learn as You Go: Watch tutorials online or join local model railroading clubs for guidance.
  3. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try different techniques or configurations until you find what works best.
  4. Involve the Family: Assign tasks like painting scenery or programming trains to make it a shared activity.

Final Thoughts

The world of model railroading continues to evolve with new technologies and innovations each year. In 2025, accessories like DCC systems, LED lighting kits, sound modules, static grass applicators, and modular scenery kits are helping hobbyists create layouts that are more realistic and engaging than ever before.

For beginners, these tools provide an excellent starting point while offering plenty of room for creativity and customization. Whether you’re building a bustling cityscape or a quiet countryside scene, these accessories will help bring your miniature world to life—and create wonderful memories along the way!

So gather your family, pick up these must-have items, and start crafting a model railroad layout that’s truly breathtaking!

References

  1. Kalmbach Media (2025). Model Railroader Magazine. Various issues featuring reviews of model train accessories.[^1]
    Website: https://www.trains.com/mrr
  2. Woodland Scenics (n.d.). Scenery Techniques.
    Website: https://woodlandscenics.com
  3. National Model Railroad Association (NMRA). Recommended Tools & Accessories.
    Website: https://nmra.org
  4. Digitrax (2025). DCC Systems Overview.
    Website: https://www.digitrax.com
  5. Luke Towan (2025). YouTube Channel. Tutorials on integrating advanced techniques into model railroads.[^2]
    Link: https://www.youtube.com/@LukeTowan

[^1]: Kalmbach Media provides insights into modern tools like DCC systems that enhance model railroading layouts.
[^2]: Luke Towan’s tutorials offer step-by-step guidance on using accessories like LED lighting kits effectively.

Model Railroading: A Great Family-Friendly Hobby (Updated for 2025)

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Model railroading is a hobby that has captivated people of all ages for generations. This unique craft allows enthusiasts, from novices to professionals, to develop small-scale railway systems complete with miniature trains and intricate scenery. With no skill or age restrictions, it’s an ideal activity for bringing families together. Let’s explore why model railroading remains a fantastic family-friendly hobby in 2025.

Everyone Can Participate

One of the most appealing aspects of model railroading is its inclusivity. Individuals of all ages, from young children to seniors, can participate and find enjoyment. Building a model railroad fosters teamwork and collaboration within the family. Each member can contribute to different aspects of the project, whether it’s designing the layout, constructing buildings, laying track, or adding scenery. This shared effort creates a sense of accomplishment and strengthens family bonds.

Educational Value

Model railroading offers significant educational opportunities. The hobby encompasses various subjects, including history, engineering, and design. Researching prototype railroads and their historical context deepens knowledge of transportation history and technological advancements. Constructing the model railroad itself involves practical engineering skills such as electrical wiring, track design, and spatial planning. These hands-on activities encourage problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

Therapeutic Value

Beyond its educational benefits, model railroading can also be incredibly therapeutic. The hobby provides a means of stress relief and relaxation. The focus and concentration required in model railroading can help individuals detach from daily worries and immerse themselves in a positive and engaging activity. The creative process of designing and building a miniature world can be deeply satisfying, fostering a sense of accomplishment and well-being.

Endless Possibilities

Model railroading offers endless possibilities for customization and creativity. Enthusiasts can create their own unique worlds, designing layouts that reflect their personal interests and preferences. The choice of era, location, and type of trains allows for endless variation. Adding scenery, buildings, and other details allows for further personalization, making each model railroad a one-of-a-kind creation.

Long-Lasting Hobby

Model railroading is a hobby that can span a lifetime. Many enthusiasts begin their journey in childhood and continue to enjoy the hobby throughout their lives. Model railroading creates lasting memories and provides an opportunity to pass on a cherished tradition to future generations. Additionally, the hobby fosters connections with other enthusiasts through clubs, online forums, and model railroad shows, creating a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

What’s New in 2025?

  • Digital Command Control (DCC) is More Accessible: DCC systems are more user-friendly and affordable, making it easier for families to control multiple trains independently and add sound effects to their layouts.
  • 3D Printing Revolutionizes Customization: 3D printers have become more accessible, allowing modelers to create custom parts, buildings, and details that were previously difficult or impossible to find.
  • Augmented Reality (AR) Integration: New AR apps allow users to overlay virtual scenery and details onto their physical layouts, creating a blended reality experience that enhances immersion and realism.
  • Focus on Sustainability: There’s growing interest in using sustainable materials and practices in model railroading, such as recycled cardboard, biodegradable ground cover, and energy-efficient LED lighting.
  • Emphasis on Realistic Operations: More modelers are focusing on replicating real-world railroad operations, including switching maneuvers, freight car routing, and timetable-based operation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, model railroading remains a rewarding and family-friendly hobby in 2025. It provides opportunities for learning, creativity, relaxation, and connection. With its endless possibilities and long-lasting appeal, model railroading is sure to provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment for families for years to come. Now is the perfect time to gather your family, spark your imagination, and embark on the exciting journey of building your own miniature world. The innovative technologies and techniques available today make it easier than ever to create a truly immersive and engaging model railroad experience.

Citations:
[1] https://stanshobbiesandinterests.com/2023/09/18/model-railroading-a-great-family-friendly-hobby/

How to Lay Track on a Model Train Layout: A Guide for Novices

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Model railroading is a wonderful hobby that combines creativity, engineering, and a love for trains. One of the most important steps in building your model train layout is laying the track. Properly laid track ensures smooth and reliable operation of your trains and adds to the overall realism of your layout. For novices, this task can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, it can be a manageable and enjoyable project. In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to lay track on your model train layout.

Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the step-by-step process, it’s important to understand some basic concepts related to model train track:

1. Types of Track

There are two main types of model train track: sectional track and flex track.

  • Sectional Track: Comes in fixed lengths and curves. It is easy to assemble and is ideal for beginners.
  • Flex Track: Comes in long, flexible sections that can be bent and cut to fit any layout design. It offers greater flexibility and allows for more realistic track arrangements.

2. Track Gauges

Track gauge refers to the distance between the rails. Common gauges include:

  • HO Scale (1:87): One of the most popular scales, suitable for detailed layouts.
  • N Scale (1:160): Smaller than HO, ideal for limited spaces.
  • O Scale (1:48): Larger than HO, provides more detail but requires more space.

3. Track Bed

The track bed is the foundation on which the track is laid. It provides stability and helps reduce noise. Common materials for track beds include cork, foam, and rubber.

Step-by-Step Guide to Laying Track

Step 1: Plan Your Layout

Before you start laying track, it’s crucial to plan your layout. Draw a detailed track plan, including all tracks, turnouts, and any accessories you plan to use. Consider the following:

  • Space: Measure the area where you will set up your layout.
  • Scale: Choose the scale that best fits your space and preferences.
  • Track Plan: Decide on the type of track plan (e.g., continuous loop, point-to-point, switching layout).

See my article on Factors to consider on your Track Plan

Step 2: Prepare the Base

The base of your layout is the surface on which you will lay the track. Common materials for the base include plywood, foam board, and MDF (medium-density fiberboard). Follow these steps to prepare the base:

  1. Cut the Base: Cut the base material to the desired size and shape.
  2. Support the Base: Build a sturdy frame or table to support the base. Ensure it is level and stable.
  3. Mark the Track Plan: Transfer your track plan onto the base using a pencil or marker. This will serve as a guide when laying the track.

Step 3: Install the Track Bed

The track bed provides a stable foundation for the track and helps reduce noise. Follow these steps to install the track bed:

  1. Cut the Track Bed: Cut the track bed material (e.g., cork or foam) to match the shape of your track plan.
  2. Glue the Track Bed: Apply a thin layer of adhesive (e.g., white glue or contact cement) to the base and press the track bed into place. Allow the adhesive to dry completely.
  3. Smooth the Track Bed: Ensure the track bed is smooth and level. Sand any rough edges if necessary.

Step 4: Lay the Track

Now it’s time to lay the track on the track bed. Follow these steps:

  1. Position the Track: Place the track sections on the track bed according to your track plan. Use track joiners (rail joiners) to connect the sections.
  2. Secure the Track: Once you are satisfied with the track placement, secure the track to the track bed using track nails or adhesive. If using track nails, be careful not to bend the rails.
  3. Cut Flex Track: If you are using flex track, cut it to the desired length using a rail cutter. Bend the flex track to fit your layout and secure it in place.
  4. Install Turnouts: If your layout includes turnouts (switches), install them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure they operate smoothly and align with the rest of the track.

Step 5: Wire the Track

Proper wiring is essential for smooth operation of your trains. Follow these steps to wire the track:

  1. Power Supply: Connect the power supply (DC or DCC) to the track. For DC layouts, connect the power pack to the track using feeder wires. For DCC layouts, connect the command station to the track.
  2. Feeder Wires: Install feeder wires at regular intervals to ensure consistent power distribution. Solder the feeder wires to the rails and connect them to the bus wires running underneath the layout.
  3. Test the Wiring: Use a multimeter to check for proper voltage and continuity. Ensure there are no short circuits or loose connections.

See my article on tips on How to Wire your Layout

Step 6: Test the Track

Before you start running trains, it’s important to test the track to ensure smooth operation. Follow these steps:

  1. Run a Test Train: Run a test train slowly around the entire layout. Check for any rough spots, derailments, or electrical issues.
  2. Adjust the Track: Make any necessary adjustments to the track alignment, elevation, or wiring. Ensure all turnouts operate smoothly.
  3. Clean the Track: Clean the track using a track cleaning eraser or isopropyl alcohol to remove any dirt or debris.

Step 7: Add Ballast

Ballasting the track adds realism and helps secure the track in place. Follow these steps to add ballast:

  1. Apply the Ballast: Spread the ballast evenly along the track using a small spoon or brush. Ensure the ballast covers the track bed and fills the space between the ties (sleepers).
  2. Shape the Ballast: Use a small brush to shape the ballast and remove any excess. Ensure the ballast is level and does not interfere with the rails.
  3. Glue the Ballast: Apply a mixture of white glue and water (50:50 ratio) to the ballast using a dropper or spray bottle. Allow the glue to dry completely.

Step 8: Add Scenery and Details

Once the track is laid and ballasted, you can add scenery and details to enhance the realism of your layout. Consider adding:

  • Buildings and Structures: Add stations, factories, houses, and other structures to create a realistic scene.
  • Vegetation: Use ground foam, static grass, and trees to add greenery to your layout.
  • Roads and Pathways: Create roads and pathways using paint, plaster, or pre-made road materials.
  • Figures and Vehicles: Add figures, vehicles, and other details to bring your layout to life.

For Model Railroad Scenery Supplies check this SITE

Conclusion

Laying track on a model train layout is a crucial step in creating a realistic and enjoyable model railroad. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your track is properly laid, wired, and tested for smooth operation. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key to a successful track-laying project. With practice and experience, you’ll become more confident in your skills and enjoy the rewarding process of building your model train layout. Happy railroading!

Citations:
[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oJL8DZO5mks
[2] https://www.nmra.org/beginners-guide-part-2-layout-planning
[3] https://cs.trains.com/mrr/f/11/t/212570.aspx
[4] https://www.building-your-model-railroad.com/model-railroad-track-plans.html
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbPZkp8gaY0

Key factors to consider when designing a Model Railroad Track Plan.

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When designing a model railroad track plan, there are several key factors that a family-friendly novice should consider. These factors will help ensure that the layout is not only visually appealing but also functional, engaging, and suitable for the available space. Here are the key factors to keep in mind.

An Introduction to track planning.

  1. Available Space
    The first and most crucial factor to consider is the available space for your model railroad layout. This will determine the overall size and complexity of your track plan. Measure the length, width, and height of the room or area where you plan to set up your layout. Consider whether you want a permanent layout or a temporary one that can be disassembled and stored when not in use. Also, think about accessibility for operation, maintenance, and viewing.
  2. Layout Theme
    Choosing a theme for your layout will guide the overall design, scenery, and atmosphere. Popular themes include prototypical railroads, specific eras (such as the steam or diesel era), industries (like logging or mining), or fictional settings. Your theme will influence the types of trains, structures, and scenery you incorporate into your layout.
  3. Scale and Gauge
    The scale and gauge of your model railroad will significantly impact the size and complexity of your layout. The most common scales are HO (1:87.1), N (1:160), and O (1:48). Consider factors such as available space, budget, and personal preferences when choosing your scale and gauge.
  4. Layout Type
    There are several types of model railroad layouts to choose from, each with its own advantages and challenges. Some popular options include:
  • Loop Layout: A simple layout with a continuous loop of track, ideal for beginners or limited spaces.
  • Point-to-Point Layout: Trains run from one end of the layout to the other, allowing for more complex operations.
  • Switching Layout: Focused on realistic switching operations, with multiple industries and sidings.
  • Modular Layout: Composed of individual modules that can be easily assembled and disassembled.

Consider your available space, desired level of complexity, and operational preferences when selecting the layout type.

  1. Operational Elements
    To add excitement and realism to your layout, consider incorporating various operational elements such as:
  • Yards and Sidings: Dedicated areas for switching operations, allowing trains to pick up and drop off cars.
  • Staging Tracks: Hidden tracks that allow trains to “disappear” and reappear, simulating longer routes.
  • Turnouts and Crossings: Switches that allow trains to change tracks or cross paths, adding complexity and interest.
  • Grades and Elevations: Incorporate hills, mountains, and bridges to create a more realistic and visually appealing layout.
  1. Scenery and Structures
    While the track plan is the backbone of your layout, scenery and structures are what bring it to life. Consider incorporating elements such as:
  • Terrain: Mountains, hills, valleys, rivers, and other natural features to create a realistic environment.
  • Buildings and Structures: Buildings, bridges, tunnels, and other structures to add depth and interest.
  • Vegetation: Trees, shrubs, and other vegetation to create a natural and visually appealing landscape.
  • Lighting and Animations: Lighting effects, animated scenes, and other special effects to enhance the overall experience.
  1. Accessibility and Maintenance
    When designing your track plan, consider accessibility for maintenance and operation. Avoid placing track sections or structures in areas that will be difficult to reach. Plan for easy access to all parts of the layout for cleaning, repairs, and adjustments.
  2. Prototypical Operations
    If you’re aiming for a prototypical layout, research the actual track plans and operations of the railroad or region you’re modeling. This will help ensure that your layout accurately represents the real-world operations and track configurations.
  3. Future Expansion
    While you may start with a modest layout, consider the possibility of future expansion. Design your track plan in a way that allows for easy addition of new sections or modules as your skills and interests grow.
  4. Seek Inspiration and Advice
    Don’t hesitate to seek inspiration and advice from experienced model railroaders, clubs, or online communities. They can provide valuable insights, tips, and recommendations based on their own experiences. Attending model railroad shows and exhibitions can also give you ideas and inspiration for your own layout.

Check this link for Model Railroad Accessories

Designing a model railroad track plan is a crucial step in creating a layout that will provide endless hours of enjoyment for you and your family. By considering factors such as available space, theme, scale, layout type, operational elements, scenery, structures, accessibility, prototypical operations, and future expansion, you can create a layout that is not only visually appealing but also functional and engaging. Remember, model railroading is a journey, and your layout will evolve and grow over time. Embrace the process, seek inspiration, and most importantly, have fun!

Citations:
[1] https://www.bouldercreekrailroad.com/articles/track-planning-for-a-modular-model-railroad
[2] https://www.building-your-model-railroad.com/train-layout-design.html
[3] https://modelrailwaytechniques.com/how-to-design-a-track-plan-for-your-model-railroad/
[4] https://www.building-your-model-railroad.com/model-train-layout.html
[5] https://www.trains.com/mrr/how-to/track-types-and-uses-a-beginners-guide/

Developing Your First Model Train Layout

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To develop your model train layout there are four major steps to take before you begin construction:

1: Select the size of your model train, that is the scale or gauge. Scales range from micro-sized Z scale for tiny layouts to giant G-scale used mostly for outdoor garden layouts.

Visit hobby shops or model train websites and see the various scales available. Staff at a hobby shop will usually be happy to point out the advantages and/or disadvantages of each scale. Your decision about scale/size will be partly based on the space available for your layout. The most popular scales are O scale which is 1/48th actual size and the smaller HO scale which is 1/87th actual size. As a result of being the two most popular scales these have the greatest variety of locomotives, cars and accessories available.

Model Train Scales an article written earlier may also help.

2: Learn about layouts for the scale you have chosen by reading magazines such as O Gauge Railroading and Classic Toy Trains (these two are for O scale). Model Railroading provides detailed information about HO and N scale. All are full of information – all the good train hobby stores carry them or you can pick them up at places like Barnes & Noble or Amazon.

Also visit websites related to your scale choice Google the term “model train layouts” for a great listing of sites with information about model train layouts. You may also wish to check out Youtube for more information on layouts.

Re-visit hobby shops you visited for information when deciding on the scale of your model train set and ask questions about layout. The good ones can provide helpful advice and they sell how-to books on wiring, scenery, detailing and other subjects.

3: You then need to decide on how you start. Do you want to start with a little layout that can later be extended? Do you want to set up a permanent layout right from the start? Do you want to develop a ‘theme’ layout say a layout depicting California logging railroads in the 1920s? The major decisions are to determine your objective and set the size parameters for your layout. Don’t forget that the size parameters for your layout will be determined largely by the space you have available a basement? the corner of a lounge room? portion of your garage? etc.

Deciding a Track Plan Before Building Your Model Railroad Layout another article written here.

4: Begin making sketches and drawings on plain paper it’s easier to make changes to your drawing than to have to physically pry up a section of track that ‘went wrong’. Refer back to magazines and websites during this planning stage just to see what others have done. Many magazines and websites will have photos of layouts appropriate to the scale you have chosen. There are even some computer programs which can help you with designing your layout – look for ads in model train magazines.

Scenery – Six steps

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Part 1

Many people’s first introduction to model railroading is with a simple circle or oval on a sheet of plywood. No scenery, no landscaping and maybe not even any buildings or vehicles

It doesn’t take long, however, to get the urge to start adding accessories to the railroad to make it more realistic. For many people, this become a lifelong endeavor, and can grow to very large proportions

There are many options for landscaping a railroad. You can add things like grass, trees, lakes or rivers alongside the track. Or you can get a little more in depth and add hills and valleys for your train to travel through, and tunnels through the mountains.

There are many methods and articles for scenery. I have read many articles, attended a few seminars (classes) and and discussed these methods at our club meetings. We have come up with our own methods for scenery. The six steps that work best for us. These steps are not hard and fast rules, merely a suggestion that will help you get to the point where you are not looking at a train running on plywood.

Step 1 The base, for this example, will be a 4 x 8 sheet of Fiberboard. A reasonable starting point. The track plan can be what ever you wish, an oval or something a little different from the internet or magazine. Our emphasis here will be scenery.

If you drive through the neighborhood or around town the main point you will see is that it is not level. Some grade changes are everywhere. (Work in small areas in the beginning, this will help you get experience and the learning process will be easier.) The first thing to do is plan what you you would like to have and where you want it. Then map a small area and begin. This is very easily done by clumping newspaper in piles and draping paper towels dipped in a plaster of paris mix and draping the wet towels over the clumped newspaper. A second method would be to use extruded Styrofoam stacked and carved to form the hills, then use the plaster cloth to form the terrain use Woodland Scenics Plaster Cloth. It’s not very messy. Using the plaster cloth can be used for small grades or larger hills. As the plaster is drying you can smooth the hill by using wet fingers and rubbing lightly for the smooth surface. You will find if you experiment you can have the terrain you desire.

The picture to the above shows two levels, the engine sits about 1.5 inch above the lower level. The blue Styrofoam hides the elevation. As you can see it does not need to be neatly cut. Rolled up newspaper also works well. Its only function is to support the plaster cloth. The styrofoam was glued in place with Elmers white glue

Plaster cloth can be cut to fit any size and location.

Here you see a cut piece of plaster cloth in place. I place the cut plaster cloth in a plastic dish to soak for several minutes then put it in place.

Here another sheet of plaster cloth has been put in place to complete the coverage of the Styrofoam. Use as many sheets as necessary to cover the area.

I like to place two layers of plaster cloth for strength. Then using wet fingers smooth the plaster as you can see in the picture the holes have disappeared by smoothing the plaster adding to the strength. The Styrofoam allows for smooth surface and smooth finish.

Rolled up newspaper will allow for a more hilly finish as the plaster cloth will follow the contours easily.

Here another sheet of plaster cloth has been put in place to complete the coverage of the Styrofoam. Use as many sheets as necessary to cover the area.

Once you are satisfied with the area you are working, paint with an earth color spray or brush whichever you desire. I find spray cans are faster and easier.

If you are working in an area where track has been placed you will want to mask the track as I did.

For this example I used a black spray paint to lightly cover the area.

At this point I walk away to let the paint and plaster dry. Doesn’t take very long.

Step 2 is spreading earth or sifted dirt onto to the wet paint. If you have let the paint dry fear not, you can use a spray on glue. 3M and Elmer’s both make a great product, I have used both. Spray the area with the glue and use a tea strainer to cover the area with earth, gently tap the strainer as you cover the area. You can use the Fine Turf or sifted dirt. The dirt can come from your back yard. Let it dry then put it through a tea strainer. let it sit for a day or two then use it on your scene. If it gets a little thick in areas don’t be concerned, you can smooth it out with a small brush or let it go. At this point you can spray the area with an inexpensive hair spray. That will hold everything in place.

Fine Turf Bag

At this point the two levels are connected by a rolling hill, covered in dirt.

In the next installment we will add grass, weeds bushes and shrubs to make the area appear to be ready for trees, people and vehicles. Bringing the railroad to life.

Continue to Part 2.

The History Of Model Railroading

Model Train Scales

5 Top Model Train Accessories

Discover Model Trains

Deciding a Track Plan Before Building Your Model Railroad Layout

How to Add Excitement to Model Railroad Scenery on Your Model Train Layout

Inexpensive Ways to Make Trees and Ground Cover For Your Model Railroad Layout

A Train Set For Christmas

Scenery – Six Steps

More Information

Woodland Scenics Supplies and Kits

A quick easy way to a stunning Layout CLICK HERE

CLICK HERE

Scenery – Six steps

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Part 2

There are many methods and articles for scenery. I have read many articles, attended a few seminars (classes) and and discussed these methods at our club meetings. We have come up with our own methods for scenery. The six steps that work best for us. These steps are not hard and fast rules, merely a suggestion that will help you get to the point where you are not looking at a train running on plywood.

In part 1 I demonstrated how I use the plaster cloth over the styrofoam or the crumpled paper to create a contour on the land. Then I used the fine turf after lightly painting the surface to simulate the earth. At this point I am ready to start with the addition of the grass. Return to read Part 1.

Since the area has been idle for several days to allow it to dry I sprayed spray adhesive on the area to be covered with grass.

Fine turf grass

Step 3 is fine green Grass, Woodland Scenics and Scenic Express make several shades of green and burnt grass. Again sprinkle lightly covering all or most of the area. Again if this appears too thick is some area you can work a brush to lightly smooth or let it go.

.

In the photo above you will see more grass on the top and bottom (flat surfaces). Grass isn’t very thick on the slope we’ll fix this shortly. The white areas will be covered with ballast as will the cork roadbed. I’ll cover track and ballast in a later post. I have used several methods and I will demonstrate what I do. I believe in easy.

Step 4 is coarse foam. Again this product is available from both companies. Sprinkle SPARRINGLY. LIGHTLY.

At this point I want to introduce wet water. I prefer water with several drops of dish soap (Dawn or something similar). This is applied with an eye dropper or a spray bottle. This is applied to the area prior to applying a 50/50 mix of water and white glue (Elmers). The wet water helps the glue saturate the the material and hold it to the painted base. You can see this work by first placing a drop of the 50/50 mix on you grass, it will sit there. Put a drop of wet water on the glue and it will penetrate the material.

Cover the area you just completed with wet water followed by the 50/50 glue mix and let it dry.

Step 5 Clump foliage. This clump foliage can be placed or not, it resembled small shrubs. If you do use it, place a small circle of white glue where it will be placed and place the clump there. The glue should be about the same size as the clump and dries clear. Again this step is a personal touch, use it or not.

Above you will see a scene I have on my layout where all the products I have mentioned in part 1 & 2 have been used. In addition to the use of small rocks/pebbles the various trees will be discussed in part three.

Step 6 Trees to be covered in a future article (Part 3 )

Till the next post on trees.

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The History Of Model Railroading

Model Train Scales

5 Top Model Train Accessories

Discover Model Trains

Deciding a Track Plan Before Building Your Model Railroad Layout

How to Add Excitement to Model Railroad Scenery on Your Model Train Layout

Inexpensive Ways to Make Trees and Ground Cover For Your Model Railroad Layout

A Train Set For Christmas

Scenery – Six Steps

Woodland Scenics Scenery Supplies and Kits

A quick easy way to a stunning Layout CLICK HERE

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Inexpensive Ways to Make Trees and Ground Cover For Your Model Railroad Layout

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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.

Gather some fresh mulberry leaves and dry them in a microwave oven. After they are dried out, drop them in a kitchen blender and you have instant ground cover. The best thing is; it costs you virtually nothing to make. Store it in a plastic bag for when you need it.

The only disadvantage with making your own ground cover is you will not necessarily know how long it will last when compared to the bought stuff. Many of the ground cover products from a hobby store will have been treated to help them maintain their color and withstand temperature and humidity variances over time. Some of them are non-flammable and nontoxic, so you need to decide what is important to you.

A lot of model railroaders use dried kitchen herbs for leaves and ground cover. They mix different herbs (eg. thyme, oregano and parsley) for different effects. When doing this it is best to lay some newspaper underneath, as it can be a messy process. That way you can catch and reuse any herbs that do not stick the first time.

Sea Foam (also called “Forest in a Box”) is a popular material for making small inexpensive trees. You can bend it to look like trees and then spray on some adhesive and sieve on some flock. It is usually best to mix a few little pieces together rather than use just one piece for an entire tree.

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Fine brass wire can be used to strengthen the trunks and branches. Torn up pieces of masking tape can be wound around the tree trunk to add some width. This can then be sealed with a mixture of wall filler and PVA white glue.

You can even add sprinklings of kitchen herbs as mentioned earlier. You can then spray the trees all over with matt varnish, or spray them (upside down) with a mix of white glue and water. You then leave them to dry overnight.

Lichen is also ideal for making shrubs and trees. It is very versatile and looks good as mass foliage and undergrowth on a train layout. It is also inexpensive and easy to work with. You can purchase it in a range of colors that can be used separately or mixed together.

So, there are many, many ways to make ground cover and trees for your model railroad layout. It is a lot of fun and you might want to try some different options to see what works best for you. The point I am really making here; is that things on your train layout do not always need to be expensive. You just need to be a little creative in your approach. Have fun!

Join Robert Anderson’s popular online Model Train Club to get lots of clever model railroad ideas to help you build the model train layout of your dreams! 

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Robert Anderson is the author of Model Railroad Scenery & Layout Construction Ideas. CLICK HERE to learn more.

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The History Of Model Railroading

Model Train Scales

5 Top Model Train Accessories

Discover Model Trains

Deciding a Track Plan Before Building Your Model Railroad Layout

How to Add Excitement to Model Railroad Scenery on Your Model Train Layout

Inexpensive Ways to Make Trees and Ground Cover For Your Model Railroad Layout

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