HO Exhibition Layout Build

Hi again!

I've had a most productive 2 hours today - I have finished at attached the curved extension for the right hand end of the layout. I initially thought I'd have to stuff around with about 4 or 5 fiddly segments to get the curve to work but it went really well with just 2 pieces shaped on the bandsaw and bench sander. To finish off the fascia I'm thinking of cutting a couple of carpet tiles into strips and then gluing them around the edge (I figure if they can take the abuse they get on the floor, they should be fine for the fascia). Now I just need to extend the tracks onto this part then I can start painting the rails and ballasting.







Until next time,

Ian

 

Toto wrote:

Thanks Toto.

I don't think minimum space layouts get enough quality coverage in the model press - most magazines present them as novelties or diversions when building a big layout rather than a viable alternative to a ' basement empire' (please note everyone - I said MOST magazines, not ALL, as some present them quite well).

Ian

 

Gary wrote:

Thanks Gary.

I wanted the curved lines of the layout to make it look different to most small layouts and to try to give a feeling of space. I hope to put the curved backscene in soon ans I think that will help with the illusion. I haven't decided what I'm going to do about the fiddle yard off to the left through the hole in the backscene but I found a small mirror in my box of bits and pieces that matches the hole nicely so I'm working on a way to mount that across the opening so the track appears to extend even further. I hope to have this done over the next few days.

Ian

 

ianvolvo46 wrote:

I grew up with that problem, Ian. I always thought layouts had be ovals and the likes but these would only fit in our 10' square garden shed which was made of metal, wasn't lined and got ridiculously hot in summer and cold in winter (not to mention I had to run out a couple of extension cords to get power in there). Now I have an indoor train room with space for a bigger layout but I have found more enjoyment in building and operating small shunting/switching layouts so I'll stick with those.

Ian

 

jakesdad13 wrote:

Thanks Pete. I agree completely. I think big round and round layouts are great in a club room sort of setup where you can take your trains along and chat with friends while watching them go round but I want to see something interesting happening when I go to a show.

Ian

 

SMR CHRIS wrote:

Thanks Chris. I'm not sure if it will fit anymore - might have to fold down half of the back seat, move the front passenger seat forward and put it in on it's back (assuming it ever goes anywhere).

Ian

 

Hi Everyone!

Looks like I'm on a roll right now with the layout. Today I made and fitted the mirror door where the fiddle yard will be fitted (eventually). Not much to tell about how I made it - the pictures speak for themselves.


Opening with mirror open from the layout side.


Opening from 'outside' layout


Mirror closed from 'outside layout


Mirror closed from the layout side. The sides of the opening will be disguised with overhanging trees and scrub.

Here's hoping I will get more done over the next few days so I'll have more to share.

Ian

 

Gary wrote:

Thanks Gary. I guess it will look like a head on is about to happen when using that head shunt!

Ian

 

ianvolvo46 wrote:

Thanks Ian - I'm glad you are enjoying it.

Ian

 

Thanks Toto and Paul.