I have a heart for the KCS and a big thing I wanted to model was a branch line of that railroad that doesn't get talked about or is barely recognized. So I chose the KCS Baxter Springs branch (Lawton Branch) and model it in N scale. The era would be set from 1960 to 1980 about 10 years before the branch was completely abandoned. This helps me in planning what locomotives and rolling stock I need for that era.
I just started in this hobby this past spring and had no idea what I was doing and really still don't. I thought it was all about big industries and operating. So when I started watching your videos and seen what you're doing it helped because I really wasn't in to that. I like building kis and seeing the train run. So, when I purchase a kit it's because I like it. My layout is quite ambitious for a first timer but i think as long as you do what you like you'll stick with it. I agree that a most kits can be finished to work with whatever era you're working in. I think almost any kit can be made to look new or totally run down. Imagination goes a long way. I'm sure a lot of people may disagree but its an opinion. Anyway, thanks again for your lessons and inspiration. SHELLY G
I think you can kit bash a lot of things into fairly usable but there are features on the waterfront kits that just aren't seen inland. Many kit makers make VERY coastal looking structures and placing them around cornfields, despite best attempts, looks bizarre. That said, there are a lot of kits that will work fine that way. It pays to do some research to avoid stuff that just doesn't fit your area.
I model 1962 in Missouri. I'm not a strict prototype modeler but I draw inspiration from towns like Moberly and Mexico and city from St. Louis. Historical fidelity is important for the railroad story I'm trying to create. Really enjoy your modeling and your artistic approach and perspective.
I’m starting a new N scale layout and it will be modular. The area will be Utica New York. The railroad is the Susquehanna that has street running and serves a brewery. There are other industries that they do serve on this branch line. The buildings are old and new and this will be a modern layout. Jason, your layout is fabulous. I have learned a lot from you. Keep up the great work!
I like the depression era layouts with the early diesels and painted signage. I live right across the river from an Iowa town (Lansing) that has all of it's old buildings. There are a lot of towns like that in this area.
I'm modeling a freelance railroad I call the Central Of Texas. In my mind, it goes from the Houston-Galveston area to Amarillo with a couple of long branches. The time period is during WW 2. The layout I'm working on is set in an area north of Austin. This gives me some perimeters to work within while still giving room to try things for the fun of it. And keep in mind I am from Texas, so don't take anything I say too seriously!
Always enjoy your builds. I have gained so many new ideas. Your recent 2yr anniversary kit is a grand slam for me! I'm a born and raised northeast Iowan and model the Rock Island 1970 to1980 shutdown and that 2yr kit would ba perfect for rural Iowa Main Street as is or modernized as you suggested. Can't wait for your next one!
I used to do transition era but switched to the late 70s to early 80s because that's when I was a kid and would go with dad to work (right next to the tracks) and watch the trains for hours. BTW, I hadn't thought of repurposing but after you mentioned it one of your structures is going to be modified into something I need. Thanks for the idea.
Since I model the turn of the 19th century I just about have to make all my rolling stock from kits. I model the Central of Georgia RR in HO scale and Lionel 027. Most of the rolling stock was based on the truss rod flatcar. Cheers from eastern TN
Good video, i have found that a lot of buildings can be changed into themed restaurants, landmarks, and museums. That way, they can look old and weathered in a modern setting.
Jason, I would ask you what are your plans after the layout is finished. The HO layout. That is a possibility in the next 5 to 10 years at the speed you move. Since your layout is made to watch trains run, there really is no operations, only viewing. Perhaps you might consider adding lighting and possibly some sound effects since its a large city. I know you said you werent interested in lighting before but you might change your mind at a later date. Nighttime really is another world completely and you can even animate the lights with some turning on and off. its a whole different dynamic way to enjoy what you have made. Cheers Rob
@@yrunaked4 When my layout is finished I’d like to donate it to the Colorado Model Railroad Museum. That way many people can actually come and visit the layout. Thanks for watching!!!
Jason, as a retired engineer, I'm begging you: *please* add a pier under the center of your double truss bridge (timestamp 0:51). The trusses do a great job of transmitting the load to the ends of the trusses, but the center - where the two trusses meet - needs some support. Even if you don't model the water underneath the bridge, adding the top inch or so of the pier to the underside of the bridge will greatly enhance the realism.
Jason, I would argue that your layout is set in New England - it has a very strong Franklin & South Manchester vibe. The waterfront structures, meanwhile, makes me think of the set from Robin Williams' live action Popeye movie.
Late 70s. 2077 to be exact. I like the idea of a cyberpunk city. Before I knew what “freelance” model railroads were, I thought they were considered fantastical layouts. So I tried to join the first “freelance railroad” Facebook group I found and when answering their entry question “what do you want to model” I described my cyberpunk fantasy. I never got let in hahahahaha
I’m modeling a mid sized city in the summer of 1942 on the New York side of the NY Pennsylvania border. So I’m modeling when the coffee shop was still a cigar store 😉
The answer to your question is, I think, based on what you want from the hobby. The wonderful thing about model railroading is the wide range of possible focus. Jason is a talented structure designer and builder. It is not my place to criticize his choices, but his railroad would not work for me because my interest is in operating with protypical integrity. I need lots of switching opportunities. The important thing, though, is that the layout works for Jason. I do think that you need a conceptual plan so you maintain a degree of consistency.
It's your Empire, can be anything you want. As someone getting back into model railway, after 30? year break A few years back I bought some On30, and know someone with a stash they willing to sell some of. Toyed with some other idea's eg: Could model a Railway Preservation Group - means you have a "valid" reason for running Locomotives and rolling stock not "normally" seen together in the same place. My discovery of 009 - leads me ( as I live in New Zealand, and sometimes Locomotives were shipped all over the world ), 009 in NZ, see where that leads. End of the day, choice is yours, in my case, 009 or 0n30.
Hello Jason, congratulations on your work; it’s very inspiring. I’ve noticed that all the buildings you include in the layout are completed. Have you considered creating buildings that are under construction, with scaffolding, cranes, and construction tools? I think it could add a lot of realism and storytelling to the layout. Best regards from Spain!
I am modelling Post WW2 and as far as location I will make a mythical place - I am located in Queensland Australia. I also model US prototype. It doesn't really matter what you choose to model, it is your railroad
Jason, I'm modeling On30 in the late 1890's to early 1900's red rock areas of the west. My railroad is a fictitious line called The Red Rock Mining Company. Hauling ore and coal out and commodities in. An On18 line is in the works to serve the mines directly and bring the ore and coal to the On30 railhead. Do you plan on producing any O Scale structures in n the future? I've been enjoying your videos. Thank you for all your information on the hobby.
I model late 18th century in two scales. N scale is the northern edge of the US in the Dakota Territories. Present day North Dakota. The towns of Hannah ( a what if history) and Bismarck, more historically accurate. Prior to 1878 steamship interchange was a high source of cargo for the railroad. My On30 is the desert SW and a decade later, in the 1880's. I think setting a tighter era helps prevent buying a bunch of stuff that doesn't fit and ends up wasting a lot of money. I did a lot of that prior to deciding on specific years. Neither of these layouts have old run down buildings. Everything is brand new (Bismarck had a large fire in March of 1877, I model fall 1877 so some things have been replaced, like last week). Dust though, that accumulates 7.5 minutes after the paint is applied to a building.
It's funny (sort of) I look at kits, like the one I just received from you. And think "How can I modify this?" Also, I used to drive my ex crazy with my "Lists".
I am doing the Swiss interbellum in my little n-scale 120x70 cm layout. There are few building models that are realy from that area, but in modern times they mostly modernise the lower part of the houses . So what I often do, is I scratch build a new ground floor part. Besides that we love steam trains, so there are more of them then shult be, because the Swiss used electric powerd trains as one of the first in Europ. But hey, it's our layout and whe to strive towards our own romantic interpretation. Also back then rolling stock would have been used for a long time so there s plenty of usable models. Even if their advertised as a later period model, with some research one can determine if that model was already around in your period. The same would go for buildings to. In al, one could say we also strive towards a (believeable) look and feel that we like, more then towards exact authenticity.
We all love these older buildings ,however, we don't need as many of them. Also the old dingy rusty buildings are cleaned up, painted and as you say, sign changes. We dont necessarily need new buildings , we need old buildings " rehabed." Now, you have to maintain your era, so if you do rehab buildings it won't work on your layout.
My problem, i'm a 57yr old newbie who wants N scale. The 2nd problem,...MOST N scale is 1940'-1960's,...i want newer. I really want 1980-2000's. I want N because i'm more about about laylout, mountains, realistic water and long runs. Ii even wrote an email to Woodland scenics and asked why they dont OR are they gonna make more N scale. I even mentioned how N scale is a rising scale size right behind HO. Some lady high up in the company wrote me back AND actually said " well,...contrary to belief,..N scale is NOT as popular as some think". WHAT,....KINDA RUDE I THOUGHT. Basically calling it a lie. I'm sorry, I dont want 1950's! i'm going to have to rely alot on 3D resin sites and even want to get my own one of these days, a Saturn 4 ultra.
I have a heart for the KCS and a big thing I wanted to model was a branch line of that railroad that doesn't get talked about or is barely recognized. So I chose the KCS Baxter Springs branch (Lawton Branch) and model it in N scale. The era would be set from 1960 to 1980 about 10 years before the branch was completely abandoned. This helps me in planning what locomotives and rolling stock I need for that era.
I just started in this hobby this past spring and had no idea what I was doing and really still don't. I thought it was all about big industries and operating. So when I started watching your videos and seen what you're doing it helped because I really wasn't in to that. I like building kis and seeing the train run. So, when I purchase a kit it's because I like it. My layout is quite ambitious for a first timer but i think as long as you do what you like you'll stick with it. I agree that a most kits can be finished to work with whatever era you're working in. I think almost any kit can be made to look new or totally run down. Imagination goes a long way. I'm sure a lot of people may disagree but its an opinion. Anyway, thanks again for your lessons and inspiration. SHELLY G
I think you can kit bash a lot of things into fairly usable but there are features on the waterfront kits that just aren't seen inland. Many kit makers make VERY coastal looking structures and placing them around cornfields, despite best attempts, looks bizarre. That said, there are a lot of kits that will work fine that way. It pays to do some research to avoid stuff that just doesn't fit your area.
I model 1962 in Missouri. I'm not a strict prototype modeler but I draw inspiration from towns like Moberly and Mexico and city from St. Louis. Historical fidelity is important for the railroad story I'm trying to create. Really enjoy your modeling and your artistic approach and perspective.
I’m starting a new N scale layout and it will be modular. The area will be Utica New York. The railroad is the Susquehanna that has street running and serves a brewery. There are other industries that they do serve on this branch line. The buildings are old and new and this will be a modern layout. Jason, your layout is fabulous. I have learned a lot from you. Keep up the great work!
I like the depression era layouts with the early diesels and painted signage. I live right across the river from an Iowa town (Lansing) that has all of it's old buildings. There are a lot of towns like that in this area.
@@TrapDoorWoodworks That’s a great era! I grew up in Clinton Iowa. South of you. Great area to grow up in. Thanks for watching!!!
I love seeing all of the old signs. They're so unique.
I'm modeling a freelance railroad I call the Central Of Texas. In my mind, it goes from the Houston-Galveston area to Amarillo with a couple of long branches. The time period is during WW 2. The layout I'm working on is set in an area north of Austin. This gives me some perimeters to work within while still giving room to try things for the fun of it. And keep in mind I am from Texas, so don't take anything I say too seriously!
Always enjoy your builds. I have gained so many new ideas. Your recent 2yr anniversary kit is a grand slam for me! I'm a born and raised northeast Iowan and model the Rock Island 1970 to1980 shutdown and that 2yr kit would ba perfect for rural Iowa Main Street as is or modernized as you suggested. Can't wait for your next one!
I used to do transition era but switched to the late 70s to early 80s because that's when I was a kid and would go with dad to work (right next to the tracks) and watch the trains for hours. BTW, I hadn't thought of repurposing but after you mentioned it one of your structures is going to be modified into something I need. Thanks for the idea.
Since I model the turn of the 19th century I just about have to make all my rolling stock from kits. I model the Central of Georgia RR in HO scale and Lionel 027. Most of the rolling stock was based on the truss rod flatcar. Cheers from eastern TN
Good video, i have found that a lot of buildings can be changed into themed restaurants, landmarks, and museums. That way, they can look old and weathered in a modern setting.
Jason, I would ask you what are your plans after the layout is finished. The HO layout. That is a possibility in the next 5 to 10 years at the speed you move. Since your layout is made to watch trains run, there really is no operations, only viewing. Perhaps you might consider adding lighting and possibly some sound effects since its a large city. I know you said you werent interested in lighting before but you might change your mind at a later date. Nighttime really is another world completely and you can even animate the lights with some turning on and off. its a whole different dynamic way to enjoy what you have made. Cheers Rob
@@yrunaked4 When my layout is finished I’d like to donate it to the Colorado Model Railroad Museum. That way many people can actually come and visit the layout.
Thanks for watching!!!
I think he'll have it done in just a few years.
It's really cool. getting A nice video with the background being in your layout..... You just do such a great job
Hi Jason & it's is Randy and i like yours video is Cool & Thanks Jason & Friends Randy
@@randydobson1863 Thank you so much Randy and thanks for watching!!!
Jason, as a retired engineer, I'm begging you: *please* add a pier under the center of your double truss bridge (timestamp 0:51). The trusses do a great job of transmitting the load to the ends of the trusses, but the center - where the two trusses meet - needs some support. Even if you don't model the water underneath the bridge, adding the top inch or so of the pier to the underside of the bridge will greatly enhance the realism.
Jason, I would argue that your layout is set in New England - it has a very strong Franklin & South Manchester vibe. The waterfront structures, meanwhile, makes me think of the set from Robin Williams' live action Popeye movie.
Late 70s. 2077 to be exact. I like the idea of a cyberpunk city. Before I knew what “freelance” model railroads were, I thought they were considered fantastical layouts. So I tried to join the first “freelance railroad” Facebook group I found and when answering their entry question “what do you want to model” I described my cyberpunk fantasy. I never got let in hahahahaha
I’m modeling a mid sized city in the summer of 1942 on the New York side of the NY Pennsylvania border. So I’m modeling when the coffee shop was still a cigar store 😉
Planning and order is important when building the layout
The answer to your question is, I think, based on what you want from the hobby. The wonderful thing about model railroading is the wide range of possible focus. Jason is a talented structure designer and builder. It is not my place to criticize his choices, but his railroad would not work for me because my interest is in operating with protypical integrity. I need lots of switching opportunities. The important thing, though, is that the layout works for Jason. I do think that you need a conceptual plan so you maintain a degree of consistency.
I'm making up my own place and railroad. Kinda a what-if layout.
I do Appalachia in the 50's. I love looking for buildings that fit my various places. I wish makers would include footprints more often.
It's your Empire, can be anything you want.
As someone getting back into model railway, after 30? year break
A few years back I bought some On30, and know someone with a stash they willing to sell some of.
Toyed with some other idea's eg:
Could model a Railway Preservation Group - means you have a "valid" reason for running Locomotives and rolling stock not "normally" seen together in the same place.
My discovery of 009 - leads me ( as I live in New Zealand, and sometimes Locomotives were shipped all over the world ), 009 in NZ, see where that leads.
End of the day, choice is yours, in my case, 009 or 0n30.
Great video!
@@magnificus8581 Thank you so much!!!
Good tips, Pal 😊
Hello Jason, congratulations on your work; it’s very inspiring. I’ve noticed that all the buildings you include in the layout are completed. Have you considered creating buildings that are under construction, with scaffolding, cranes, and construction tools? I think it could add a lot of realism and storytelling to the layout.
Best regards from Spain!
I am modelling Post WW2 and as far as location I will make a mythical place - I am located in Queensland Australia. I also model US prototype.
It doesn't really matter what you choose to model, it is your railroad
If you had a button factory I would believe that was muscatine Iowa. Muscles harvested from the mississippi river to make buttons back in the day.
Jason, I'm modeling On30 in the late 1890's to early 1900's red rock areas of the west. My railroad is a fictitious line called The Red Rock Mining Company. Hauling ore and coal out and commodities in. An On18 line is in the works to serve the mines directly and bring the ore and coal to the On30 railhead.
Do you plan on producing any O Scale structures in n the future?
I've been enjoying your videos. Thank you for all your information on the hobby.
I’m a late 70’s guy. Southern Pacific, west coast. Lots of abandoned track.
I model late 18th century in two scales. N scale is the northern edge of the US in the Dakota Territories. Present day North Dakota. The towns of Hannah ( a what if history) and Bismarck, more historically accurate. Prior to 1878 steamship interchange was a high source of cargo for the railroad. My On30 is the desert SW and a decade later, in the 1880's. I think setting a tighter era helps prevent buying a bunch of stuff that doesn't fit and ends up wasting a lot of money. I did a lot of that prior to deciding on specific years. Neither of these layouts have old run down buildings. Everything is brand new (Bismarck had a large fire in March of 1877, I model fall 1877 so some things have been replaced, like last week). Dust though, that accumulates 7.5 minutes after the paint is applied to a building.
i think the best modelers have artistic ability, either professional artist or they were good at art in school.
It's funny (sort of) I look at kits, like the one I just received from you. And think "How can I modify this?" Also, I used to drive my ex crazy with my "Lists".
Jeremy Arizona is where the Thunder Mountain Railroad channel is based at.
Where or what are you using for your bird figurines?
I am doing the Swiss interbellum in my little n-scale 120x70 cm layout.
There are few building models that are realy from that area, but in modern times they mostly modernise the lower part of the houses . So what I often do, is I scratch build a new ground floor part.
Besides that we love steam trains, so there are more of them then shult be, because the Swiss used electric powerd trains as one of the first in Europ. But hey, it's our layout and whe to strive towards our own romantic interpretation.
Also back then rolling stock would have been used for a long time so there s plenty of usable models. Even if their advertised as a later period model, with some research one can determine if that model was already around in your period.
The same would go for buildings to.
In al, one could say we also strive towards a (believeable) look and feel that we like, more then towards exact authenticity.
Also we don't model a specific proto type, but we draw inspiration from surten places and thereby try to stick to a region.
We all love these older buildings ,however, we don't need as many of them. Also the old dingy rusty buildings are cleaned up, painted and as you say, sign changes. We dont necessarily need new buildings , we need old buildings " rehabed."
Now, you have to maintain your era, so if you do rehab buildings it won't work on your layout.
If I had the room and the money, I would model the 50's through 70's mid century modern with lots of googie architecture!
You mean it's a tailoring shop... Lol!
My problem, i'm a 57yr old newbie who wants N scale. The 2nd problem,...MOST N scale is 1940'-1960's,...i want newer. I really want 1980-2000's. I want N because i'm more about about laylout, mountains, realistic water and long runs. Ii even wrote an email to Woodland scenics and asked why they dont OR are they gonna make more N scale. I even mentioned how N scale is a rising scale size right behind HO. Some lady high up in the company wrote me back AND actually said " well,...contrary to belief,..N scale is NOT as popular as some think". WHAT,....KINDA RUDE I THOUGHT. Basically calling it a lie. I'm sorry, I dont want 1950's! i'm going to have to rely alot on 3D resin sites and even want to get my own one of these days, a Saturn 4 ultra.
The only correct answer is Bavaria, 1890. Or the Shire, year 312 of the Third Age.