Just started with Kato N CV1 and CV2 track sets on a tiny desk and simple buildings, alot of fun and plenty of creativity. Just painted up my first few buildings and layout / theme is coming together. Channel is very helpful for the beginner and insipriing. Thanks for sharing your knowledge Steve
New subscriber. Went to my first train show, and I am hooked. Watched several of your videos, and there is so much great information. I can't wait to get started on my first N-scale layout. Thank you.
Thanks again for all the awesome videos! I picked up some N scale stuff recently at a model train show, and just yesterday picked up a 2x4ft piece of ply and some foam to put on top of it. It will eventualy be trimmed in something nice looking but for now it gives me a permanent SOMETHING to start with. My plan is much like you speak of in this video, making something small that I can hopefully get relatively completed this winter, and as an experiment to see if I want to build something larger in N scale later...I could fit a lot more into my space for my long term plan of building a layout around the walls of my hobby room, but unsure if I can get along with the smaller size vs HO scale, which I had originally started planning and collecting. I still have a few more pieces of track to get, before I can finalize my track plan and start gluing something down. I've got some curves coming in a smaller radius to try, because the V5 set radius puts the track right to the edge of a 2x4 space at least on the front and back. Once I'm happy with the configuration then I can get to securing the track, and start on ballast and machinery. Going to hopefully get the plywood fastened to a support frame of 2x2 (simply because I have a pile of 2x2 lumber not being used), and hopefully have the foam painted brown for now by the end of the coming week or so... hopefully I have those smaller radius curves and a couple new turnouts in my hands shortly. Your channel has been very helpful in my planning process, thanks much for the content. cheers!
great advice Steve, in the UK there have been a number of initiatives / challenges to build a v small layout or diorama in a stationary box file (just bigger than A4 paper), maybe to use the box as a module with one "consistent " track running through the middle to connect up to other "module" / boxes
Thank you for sharing. I model HO scale trains, but the space it takes up doesn't allow me to add all the scenery I want. Watching this video has made me consider N scale modeling.
Thanks Steve. N-scale seems to be the "unicorn" for me. I'm just beginning this journey into model railroading (coming from a background of being a plastic scale modeler, I've built a few small dioramas, with a bit of RC flying through in). I've got a couple of the Kato sets (M1 and V2), and am looking to potentially add a couple more. Still working on "the plan" for my first layout...thanks for the link to your website. At present I'm mulling over the idea of T-Track modules (the idea of splitting them apart scares me a bit because of what "happens" to the scenery etc), and trying to plan for starting with DC, but eventually moving to DCC. But hey...I'm a Project Manager by trade...so no worries right?
I have been modeling in n scale for a very long time, building a traditional (non modular) layout. Six years ago I moved to a new city and was fortunate to find an n scale club with both NTrak and T-trak layouts. I joined the club and in addition to building a new traditional home layout ( I had to scrap the previous one due to the move), I have built several T-trak modules to be included in the club layout. I am very happy I joined this club and enjoy our monthly train shows where we set up for the public. Occasionally there is damage to a module but it is usually minor and there are techniques to help minimize the damage. Also, this club is 100% DCC so I made the switch and I am very glad I did. With assistance from other club members, I have almost completed the process of converting my DC locomotives to DCC. Being able to operate one of 6 - 10 (sometimes more) trains running at the same time, all independent of each other, has added a new level of excitement and realism to operating trains. I would encourage you to seriously consider both T-trak and DCC. JD
While the scale of N is approximately half of HO, I would recommend building an N layout at 3/5ths of the HO plan rather than half for a more 'comfortable' fit and smoother operation.
The way I look at the hobby is N-scale is great for running long trains and for emphasizing scenery, but comes up short for switching/operations/sound. As an operations/switching fan, I prefer O-gauge, but unfortunately ended up having to compromise with HO due to the lack of space. It seems to me model railroading is an exercise in compromise, but it's nice to have options!
@@StevesTrains Looking forward to it Steve! After watching your into video to O-gauge I was intrigued and built a trial O-gauge shelf switching layout but quickly decided I don't have the space needed to do O-Gauge justice so ended up changing to HO. I gleaned some ideas from your Tulsa Spur layout - thanks! ;-)
Hey Steve I have a idea for a new micro layout what about a uk Christmas layout all you would need Is a dapol n gauge A1 TERRIER 1to2 lima choaches the kato cv1 only the curves and 1 double straight and 1 single straight and the power track I would be nice to see if you aren't limassol to USA based model railways but it's just a suggestion
I swear by Kato, they are the number one to go to for N scale if you are a newcomer to the hobby. Easy to use and packs great fun. No fuss, just fun!
I am so excited to switch from Bachmann to Kato, Kato definitely seems like the way and everyone swears by it.
Yes, incredibly easy and reliable. You give up some detail/realism but I will take the reliability over that any day.
I started with atlas track, and various locos and rolling stock, but I think I'll change to Kato track, lot of people seem to like em😊
that little 17x30 layout you built really has me wanting to build one of similar size.
New subscriber here, getting into N scale as an adult and your channel has been immensely helpful to help me plan my first steps. Thank you!
Just started with Kato N CV1 and CV2 track sets on a tiny desk and simple buildings, alot of fun and plenty of creativity. Just painted up my first few buildings and layout / theme is coming together. Channel is very helpful for the beginner and insipriing. Thanks for sharing your knowledge Steve
Another great video Steve. Lots of good advice for new model rail roaders. I wanted to keep my layout small. I can't wait to get started on my 17x30!
New subscriber. Went to my first train show, and I am hooked. Watched several of your videos, and there is so much great information. I can't wait to get started on my first N-scale layout. Thank you.
Great! It’s a fun hobby. It uses a lot of different skills to keep you interested.
Thank you! I like the urban water front layout. I think I should like to try and build it.
You done some fantastic layouts put a lot of work in them I do n gauge I used to do 00 gauge switching to n gauge was the best choice I did love it
Thanks!
Thanks again for all the awesome videos! I picked up some N scale stuff recently at a model train show, and just yesterday picked up a 2x4ft piece of ply and some foam to put on top of it. It will eventualy be trimmed in something nice looking but for now it gives me a permanent SOMETHING to start with. My plan is much like you speak of in this video, making something small that I can hopefully get relatively completed this winter, and as an experiment to see if I want to build something larger in N scale later...I could fit a lot more into my space for my long term plan of building a layout around the walls of my hobby room, but unsure if I can get along with the smaller size vs HO scale, which I had originally started planning and collecting.
I still have a few more pieces of track to get, before I can finalize my track plan and start gluing something down. I've got some curves coming in a smaller radius to try, because the V5 set radius puts the track right to the edge of a 2x4 space at least on the front and back. Once I'm happy with the configuration then I can get to securing the track, and start on ballast and machinery. Going to hopefully get the plywood fastened to a support frame of 2x2 (simply because I have a pile of 2x2 lumber not being used), and hopefully have the foam painted brown for now by the end of the coming week or so... hopefully I have those smaller radius curves and a couple new turnouts in my hands shortly.
Your channel has been very helpful in my planning process, thanks much for the content.
cheers!
great advice Steve, in the UK there have been a number of initiatives / challenges to build a v small layout or diorama in a stationary box file (just bigger than A4 paper), maybe to use the box as a module with one "consistent " track running through the middle to connect up to other "module" / boxes
That is something I want to do at some point, building a layout in a file box. It is a fun idea.
Thank you for sharing. I model HO scale trains, but the space it takes up doesn't allow me to add all the scenery I want. Watching this video has made me consider N scale modeling.
Thanks Steve. N-scale seems to be the "unicorn" for me. I'm just beginning this journey into model railroading (coming from a background of being a plastic scale modeler, I've built a few small dioramas, with a bit of RC flying through in). I've got a couple of the Kato sets (M1 and V2), and am looking to potentially add a couple more. Still working on "the plan" for my first layout...thanks for the link to your website. At present I'm mulling over the idea of T-Track modules (the idea of splitting them apart scares me a bit because of what "happens" to the scenery etc), and trying to plan for starting with DC, but eventually moving to DCC. But hey...I'm a Project Manager by trade...so no worries right?
I have been modeling in n scale for a very long time, building a traditional (non modular) layout. Six years ago I moved to a new city and was fortunate to find an n scale club with both NTrak and T-trak layouts. I joined the club and in addition to building a new traditional home layout ( I had to scrap the previous one due to the move), I have built several T-trak modules to be included in the club layout. I am very happy I joined this club and enjoy our monthly train shows where we set up for the public. Occasionally there is damage to a module but it is usually minor and there are techniques to help minimize the damage.
Also, this club is 100% DCC so I made the switch and I am very glad I did. With assistance from other club members, I have almost completed the process of converting my DC locomotives to DCC. Being able to operate one of 6 - 10 (sometimes more) trains running at the same time, all independent of each other, has added a new level of excitement and realism to operating trains.
I would encourage you to seriously consider both T-trak and DCC.
JD
@@ssully8716 Thanks for the encouragement. I'm sure there is a local model railroad club (I'm a member of the local plastic modeling club).
I bought a used digital Trix 11145 set for a 100 bucks. It is awesome 😊
I miss the TT scale in the overview. But there are some nice little layout ideas.
Oh wow! Thanks for sharing 👍🏻
While the scale of N is approximately half of HO, I would recommend building an N layout at 3/5ths of the HO plan rather than half for a more 'comfortable' fit and smoother operation.
Nice Layout😃
Good info.
Hi Steve,
Nice Video. I’m missing the TT scale 😳🤷♂️🚂🤩🤣
Doggo going crazy in the background 😂😂
I have one video where one of my dogs walked right across the layout I was building.
The way I look at the hobby is N-scale is great for running long trains and for emphasizing scenery, but comes up short for switching/operations/sound. As an operations/switching fan, I prefer O-gauge, but unfortunately ended up having to compromise with HO due to the lack of space. It seems to me model railroading is an exercise in compromise, but it's nice to have options!
I’m going to get my O gauge switching layout started one of these days.
@@StevesTrains Looking forward to it Steve! After watching your into video to O-gauge I was intrigued and built a trial O-gauge shelf switching layout but quickly decided I don't have the space needed to do O-Gauge justice so ended up changing to HO. I gleaned some ideas from your Tulsa Spur layout - thanks! ;-)
Now I'm about to do my first Trains in Frames layout. One thing I noticed that you are not afraid to use sculpt the mold! Lol
Not at all! Lol
Can I use a matte clear craft spray to protect scenery material when I finish an area?
Hey Steve I have a idea for a new micro layout what about a uk Christmas layout all you would need
Is a dapol n gauge A1 TERRIER
1to2 lima choaches the kato cv1 only the curves and 1 double straight and 1 single straight and the power track I would be nice to see if you aren't limassol to USA based model railways but it's just a suggestion
That is a good idea. I should do a layout like that sometime. Shipping from overseas isn’t too bad this direction.
Steve, I need to add a lift-out section to my Kato N scale layout, can you provide any advice, especially regarding the connection?
I am so tired of seeing that same layout over and over. Do something new.
Watch something different
I can only build 2-3 layouts a year at most since I only have about 5-10 hours per week at most to do this. But some new projects coming up soon.