Bachmann Trains & Accessories

O Scale Elevated Track
O Scale Elevated Track

Model train building can be an exciting hobby, but with all the room they consume not many people have enough space for them. Compact model trains are perfect for those who are trying to conserve space in their homes and love model railroad trains. Estimating the size of the compact layout you want to create should be the first step.

For those with little space only the N scale and Z scale model railroad trains should be considered. They are the smallest, functional model trains on the market and even in a small layout you can include a lot of scenery.

For people who do not have the space to create a permanent layout, there is a great little trick you can use. Get a 1 inch piece of plywood and cut it to whatever dimensions you want and then cut a 2 inch thick sheet of styrofoam and cut it to the same dimensions. Glue the styrofoam to the bottom of the plywood and then you can keep your layout on the floor anywhere you like. You can slide it over the carpet without damaging it and you can easily carry it around with two people. And you can hide it under furniture, especially a bed whose frame is elevated off the floor. Your spouse will appreciate it when your layout is out of the way.

You will be creating the layout on the plywood and you can draw your design directly on the plywood. You should lay down all the track first and then drill holes where necessary to connect the wires to the power supply.

Jeremy Vaness is a model train enthusiast. For more great information on model train scenery visit http://www.modeltrainonline.com.

Lionel 5-1/2′ X 12′ “O” gauge postwar layout- stage 3 (track completed)