Building Design For Model Railroad Hobbyists

submitted: Jun 20th 2008 | by: BillMurphy | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 277 | PDF View | Print Article

Not everyone wants to be an architect, but when it comes to model railroading it seems like everyone gets into the act sooner or later. It is often just too hard to find the perfect bridge, building or train station to match the vision in our minds unless we build it ourselves.

So what's involved in making your own buildings? Do you need to be a master carpenter or will you be able to get away with the basic tools you can find in most homes?

The fact is, building a quality replica can take some intricate miter cuts and may require some advanced woodworking skills (and tools). But an alternative is the "kitbashing" method, where you take an existing model and use them as the foundation for your building, modifying them to suit your needs.

In many cases doing this will allow an enthusiast to utilize simple tools such as X-acto knives and scissors along with a little imagination to achieve spectacular results.

There are a number of materials that can be helpful when making your buildings. Balsa wood, mat board, cardboard, foam and lightweight plastics are all good choices.

Plaster and corkboard, gold and silver foil, spray adhesives and even beads and glitter can also be useful. Most of these materials are very inexpensive and can be found at local hobby supply stores.

Where To Turn For More Ideas

There have been numerous article in various magazines over the years, explaining how to work with these materials. Your local second-hand bookstore or library can be a great resource for finding them. And remember - look to other hobbies for ideas as well. These skills aren't solely the realm of the model railroader.

About the Author

Want some more ideas for designing model railroad scenery? Visit TheModelRailroader.com for lots of helpful information. Get a copy of my report "Model Railroad Design Secrets" at http://www.themodelrailroader.com


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