N Scale (1:160) (T-Trak) Model Railroading Tips

by Warthog Labs in Craft > Art

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N Scale (1:160) (T-Trak) Model Railroading Tips

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This is a short list of dos and don'ts for new model railroaders. In this instructable, I will be using my n scale, T-Trak layout. For more information on T-Trak layouts, go to: https://www.ntrak.org/T-TRAK

Supplies

  1. Clear super glue
  2. N scale model kits
  3. T-trak modules (or you can build them yourself!)
  4. Props

Tips on Assembling Models

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A few things to keep in mind while assembling models are to make sure you use a clear drying super glue, if not you could end up with frosty marks on windows and lighter colored areas (you can see it in the picture above). Also be sure to keep pieces firmly pressed together or they could end up falling off when you least expect it (this has happened to me on a number of occasions where roofs start flying off houses during transport to layouts ;).

Imperfect? Perfect!

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Got an unfinished section on your layout? This sounds like a great opportunity to break out the construction vehicles! It turns out that filling temporarily empty spaces with construction vehicles can be quite an eye catcher!

Don't Overdo It

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Adding too many vehicles, props, and/or buildings can make your layout feel crowded. The only exception is when you are trying to simulate a real-life scene or area.

Lights, Camera, Action!

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Firstly I should let you in on a well-known photography hack for model railroading. Balancing your camera on the tracks can give you a nice steady shot. Make sure there is plenty of light on the focusing point or it could be blurry like the image above.

Make a Budget

In a hobby like this, overspending can come easily. You should set a limit on how much to spend each month to avoid overspending.

Happy Railroading!

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This layout took me two years to build and is constantly growing. It would be practically impossible to name every single step I went through to get to where I am, but if you have questions or would like more information on certain things, you are more than welcome to comment about it below and I will try to help!