My new layout is basic, no clever design schemes, just two mainlines for simultaneous train operation and some sidings. There is a long branch line that runs from one end of the layout to the other. The destination is Maple Valley. The train running the line will be a vintage model engine like “The General” …
Continue reading How to Install Foam Risers on Your HO Scale Model Railroad
This is the Maple Valley Supply Company. It sits on the line that brings passengers from Midtown to Maple Valley on The Old General. The two-story structure is scratch-built in balsa. The windows and doors are plastic models purchased at a model railroad swap meet. I drew plans for the structure on card stock. I …
This is the Maple Valley Supply Company. It sits on the line that brings passengers from Midtown to Maple Valley on The Old General. The two-story structure is scratch-built in balsa. The windows and doors are plastic models purchased at a model railroad swap meet. I drew plans for the structure on card stock. I …
Continue reading Scratch-Build a Two-Story Trackside Structure in HO Scale
This definitely has to go in the category, "If I can do this, absolutely anyone can." I made my own static grass applicator that really works! I've been working steadily on the scenery of The Maple Valley Short Line Model Railroad. I'm creating scenes with more detail than I have on any other layout. On …
Continue reading Make Your Own Static Grass Applicator for Realistic Scenes
I love looking at photos and videos posted by fellow model railroaders. I have learned a great deal about scenery by watching others do what they do best. I recently discovered I've been making a mistake. When I go into my train room, I tend to look at my whole layout from one end to …
Continue reading Transform Your Model Railroad Layout in Small Steps
I love looking at photos and videos posted by fellow model railroaders. I have learned a great deal about scenery by watching others do what they do best. I recently discovered I've been making a mistake. When I go into my train room, I tend to look at my whole layout from one end to …
Continue reading More Scenery Details on the Maple Valley Short Line Model Railroad
One of the beautiful things about model railroading, and scenery in particular, is that beauty is in the eye of the creator. If you think it's incredible, then it is. We all like to be told our work is terrific, but the truth is you are the only one to please. I pondered backdrops for …
Continue reading DIY Model Railroad Backdrops: A Beginner’s Guide
One of the beautiful things about model railroading, and scenery in particular, is that beauty is in the eye of the creator. If you think it's incredible, then it is. We all like to be told our work is terrific, but the truth is you are the only one to please. I pondered backdrops for …
Continue reading Painting Beautiful Backdrops for Your Model Railroad
Everyone loves a parade, and the good folks in Maple Valley are no exception. When news quickly reached everyone that Sheriff Pete Terkinberry would soon patrol the three streets of town in a new squad car, excited anticipation of a parade swept like a wind-blown grass fire. From one end of town to the other, …
Continue reading Scandal at Maple Valley – Episode 25: Finding Sylvia Meisner
My Maple Valley Short Line Model Railroad is looking really good, if I do say so myself. In previous posts I wrote about making printed buildings with cardstock and balsa. I have many of them. I decided to try scratch building. The first thing required is a dedicated work space. Mine is a lap-desk and …
Continue reading Scratch Building Balsa Cabins for Model Railroads
A Coffee State of Mind 