One of the great things about having a model train hobby is that it allows the hobbyist to unleash their imagination and create their own detailed landscape for the model train to travel through. Imagine a full sized train chugging past waterfalls, entering a mountain tunnel, or pulling into a bustling railroad yard. If a big train can do it, so can the scale models.
When setting up a model train system, one thing to avoid is having a lackluster setting. Model train scenery should reflect the beauty of the countryside and draw in the audience. Show them why trains are important. Trains have played an important role in history across the world, establishing solid trade routes and allowing supplies to reach far away towns and settlements.
From that bit of history, one might choose to step back in time with their model train layout and show the early days of railroading with model trains pulling through early western settings, or they might choose to design a more modern day scene and take onlookers through a bustling cityscape. The opportunities available in model railroading are endless.
Model Train Landscaping Supplies
The accessories available for model train landscaping are staggering. Anything that is available in full scale is almost always available in miniature. Model train hobbyists can find outhouses, farm animals, people, pets, cars, trucks, boats, bridges, buildings, flashing warning signals, neon billboards, trees, bushes, grass, and the list goes on. Finding them is as easy as getting a hobby supply catalog and looking at what's available.
The hobbyist doesn't have to limit themselves to store bought miniatures. There are also kits available that allow the model train enthusiast to build it from the ground up, allowing them the freedom to make modifications as they go, such as adding miniature lighting fixtures, adding paint schemes, or inserting other focal points. More adventurous hobbyists might even choose to create a model prop completely from scratch. There are no limits in model train landscaping.
In addition to miniatures, the model train enthusiast is also able to build and create their own scaled down landscape features such as hillsides, rivers, lakes, and forests. There are supplies available to help make this easy as well. After constructing a foam or plaster base, hobbyists can add features such as ground and colored foam or flock to duplicate the effect of different types of grass, colored lichen to simulate bushes, and handcrafted or store bought miniature trees.
Best Reasons to Get Into Model Train Landscaping
Model railroading and model train landscaping offer a great outlet for creativity and personal expression. Furthermore, once the project is completed, it doubles as a functional piece of artwork that everyone can enjoy. Keeping it fresh is simple; just add a few new buildings or change up some simple features, blow the train whistle and let those model trains roll.
Read more about scale model trains at Model Trains and Railroads or visit a local railroad club for additional information and ideas. Model railroading is a fun and rewarding hobby that's great for people of all ages. In fact, it's an activity that's so fun that the whole family will want in on it.
Resources:
- National Model Railroading Association
- Special thanks to the members of the Miracle Strip Model RR Club located at 1255A N. Eglin Pkwy, Shalimar FL.
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