Your self-assessment of your scratch-building is way too harsh. The buildings look amazing throughout. I love the graffiti and little details, like the missing "k" from "Market". It has been a pleasure to see your layout, thank you.
The buildings look great, the colours of them are superb. You have a good eye for realism. It makes me feel it would be worth having and go for myself someday on making a layout of my own.
I am pleased that the colours have worked out. It's tricky getting the pallette right over a long period of time, but I think it works. Go for it - start small and try a few things out. Good luck!
I found your channel 21 March. 3 weeks later and I've watched every video from the start to now. These are just wonderful and inspiring for my own n gauge plans. Thank you for showing all of your methods. Inkscape is so useful.
Wow, thank you! I can't imagine what it must be like to watch all the videos in one big binge. Now you've seen them all, what is your favourite part of Chandwell?
@@ChandwellDefinitely how you've made it seem like a place that is truly alive. The graffiti, the adverts for other shops that you then make etc. Obviously the fake history makes for great TH-cam entertainment too but all those little visible bits could be seen in real life too and I love that !
Thank you. Yeah, I thought that since I'd have to look at it constantly while I work, I really needed something that looked neat, so that was my first priority when I decided to make a layout.
I only discovered Chandwell last week, and its absolutely delightful. I'll be making a reservation at the Royal Scot for a week. I love the gritty realism and historic buildings, and it must be nice to ponder when you want to break from your work....just being an observer of life, and enjoy it. Thank you Michael. It's not only a pleasure to enjoy the finished product (if anything like this is ever finished), but also the brilliant tutorials that demonstrate construction techniques with common products rather than expensive and specialized hobby items. A heartfelt thanks for your videos! Best from the USA....
Thank you so much, and welcome to Chandwell. You've made the right choice to stay in the Royal Scot. It's a bit more expensive than the Earl Chandfield (especially if you stay in Grants Tower), but well worth it. The Earl Chandfield has quite "tired" carpets and smells a bit damp.
As this layout opened to the scenic bit i immediately shouted ‘Yorkshire’ and thats before you opened up with description.. that for me shouts authenticity. So nicely done on a ‘yorkshiremans’ minimum spend policy!! So much ‘feel’ and ‘truism’ that touched a nerve in the back of my neck!!! My hat goes off to you sir for achieving such a lovely and rewarding layout.
Your railway and all of the buildings are fantastic. I'm retired, and I only ever had the most basic of a model railway when I was a child, but seeing your complete set up makes me so happy.
Thanks Don! I thought it was about time to do an intro for new viewers as much as old ones. Making this video took my mind off the Town Hall’s roof for a bit too.
The layout was good on its own - particularly in that bespoke cabinet setting - but the buildings, bridges and other items are wonderful. The results you get from cardboard, glue and paint are just astounding! 💯
Both amazing work and lovely humour and as a Yorkshireman I very much support your thrifty approach. I can't wait to see the next instalment from the charming Brittany.
4yrs of outstanding modelling Michael. I looked back and I've followed since February 2020 - that's when I found your channel. You should be rightly proud of what you're building - one of the best N Gauge layouts in the UK. Cheers Euan
Wow, thank you, Euan. You have been an almost constant source of encouragement and a friendly word or two. I am always inspired by your own modelling too. Thank you for watching all this time. -Michael
Thank you, and welcome to Chandwell! More local building a to come. I’ve added part of Otley Road in Shipley, and am currently adding bits of Brook Street in Ilkley, but with parts of Otley mixed in too.
Your layout is probably the best layout I've ever seen. I've been sort of doing the same thing in HO scale for the past 5 months and watching your videos helps me a lot. I love the artistic side to it, none of your buildings looks like awful plastic buildings but looks like artistic representations of the real thing.
Yes! This is fan-tas-tic! This is the kind of layout I always imagine doing. I hardly ever see that style anywhere: super-realistic, gritty urban city scenery with bridges and rivers and beautiful old city houses next to worn-down 70s monstrosities, self-built houses and bridges and roads... I love it!
Dude, to be honest, I like small details, but this proves again that the overall atmosphere is a huge thing. This is beautiful. I like the weathered trains. I like the perfectly captured rundown scenery. And to be honest the details that do not stand closer inspection: They are not an eyesore like other things in other layouts often are. Beautifully done, sir. Thanks for sharing!
I absolutely love how you've captured the essence of West Yorkshire. I have no doubt what the market tower is based on, having grown up in the area, and travelled to Leeds and Bradford on the train in my twenties. Great job!!
My sister in law knows I have many hobbies and have a deep appreciation for other people's art and work. I have enjoyed this video and look forward to the others in your library! Cheers from Brisbane Australia!
The whole concept, the construction, the promotion of what can be achieved in N Gauge makes this, Michael, one of the best layouts on TH-cam. The shorter length of the videos coupled with what is within them is excellent. How often have we seen a video showing the construction of a grass embankment which runs for nearly an hour!!! I was amazed at the size of the layout, thinking it would be a lot larger, but then this is however what can be created when you are an expert in your field, and why N is so good. Thanks for the tour Michael, really enjoyable. Cheers, Bob
Thank you Bob! The layout seems bigger because there are so many different vantage points to film from. I think because every road/river crosses the tracks and the layout at acute angles, and because none of the ground is flat, there's never really a clear line of sight from the front to the backscene, or from one side to the other. This makes it feel more like a town than a model.
Hi Michael, Nice to see the layouts background and progress, to date. It also looks like your model making skills have moved on in leaps and bounds! Well done. Look forward to the next update/progress video.
Michael, as the builder of a small layout myself (less than 5 m2) I have made a careful study of what it takes to make a small layout look larger. One important element is detail: small details, which are not necessarily easily seen, draw the viewer in and invite even closer examination. This leads the viewer to experience the layout from a closer distance, making the overall layout seem much larger. Chandwell is a classic example of this: your attention to detail is phenomenal, and you have created - and continue to create - your own little world where a visitor can get lost for hours on end. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I think you’re right but I’ve never really considered it before. I think something else that works well is that all my roads cross the layout at an angle other than 90 degrees. And the my go up hill. With the buildings in place, this means that there are so many different angles to see things from and you have to move around a lot to get a clear view of any given thing. To me, that makes the town seem quite real too.
Chandwell. Where everything is planned well, Where you never need to oversell, It meets our needs. Chandwell. Planning worthy of a Nobel, Where you can always say a farewell, To posh buggers from Leeds.
Michael, it's a thing of beauty. Something I really enjoy is how the story of Chandwell and it's buildings are still evolving. 👍Ps Really love the meticulous documentation of your electrical / track connections. Also, look forward to Brittany's tour and entertainment guide 👍
Its an amazing layout Michael. the attention to the detailing of your buildings is very realistic. what a creation my friend. and its all done in N gauge. pure Magic. best wishes Tony
Hi Michael, your layout looks superb, in particular the buildings, you have done some brilliant work. You have unique models there. I think sometimes folk forget it’s an illusion we are creating, get too close and you can always tell it’s a model. Most importantly it has to be what works for you, doesn’t bankrupt you, and the pleasure it gives you (and the kids) making and operating it. Well done, all the best Stephen.
I’m just about to start building card buildings for a new layout. It has been 35 years since I built a layout with card buildings, with the difference being that I planned to use a scanner, a printer, and have an ideal spec and large supply of card since my building days in my childhood. Your card buildings have blown me away and really inspired me. Thanks for the tip on that free software, it looks perfect for my plan. I love your layout!
The downward shot of the 31 crossing the station throat over the viaduct was amazing. That pointwork is a thing of beauty! One day you just have to do a time lapse of that area from that angle. Thumbs up well earned! Mike.
The buildings on your layout are the nicest I've seen. The look so realistic. It's hard to believe that the scale is 1:160. I'm gonna watch more of this channel. Greetings from the Netherlands.
There's so much to love about this, I think all of the back-stories and the very detailed perspectives are the best bit! Also amazing how you've fit so much into such a small space without it feeling cramped, cracking effort! 😊
I keep thinking I'm looking at an H0 layout. Absolute marvel the details on the buildings and even the trains look so good. N has come a long way. Your modeling skills are outstanding and good for you for using anything you can get hold of instead of just buying of the shelf.
Well that was worth clicking on. Never come across Chandwell before , a n excellent depiction of of a run down station and it’s environs. Top work, really good.
A great new introduction to a railway that has grown on us over the last four years. The quality of the models isn't compromised by their low cost. It is a compliment to Michael that it all looks so real. Chandwell, not only as grim as you think it is but also an area of Outstanding Natural Beautiful Modelling George
Haven't been with you for the full four, but I remember when there were only bridges and rivers! It's been a great ride so far and has started me down the printed card buildings route for my own N Gauge project. Here's hoping the glue holds, and the ink doesn't fade for any of us!
Hello Michael, Thank you for your nice video. It shows precisely the scale and complexity of the Chandwell layout. Also a pleasant insight introducing your family. You certainly have the rare ability and skillset to conceive and develop this magnificent project. Wonderful ! I've lived in Brittany since 1995 but enjoy your channel as one of my favourites.
Brilliant to see all the progress you've made over the last 4 years in one video. Such a stunning layout and brilliant backstories, it's a real joy following your progress! Here's to the next 4 years👍 Andrew🙂
@@Chandwell Yeah.. I designed mine soo that I could move it.. (Good job as it move from Oz to US...) But right now, even though I'm still working on this layout, I'm planning another one in my head.. Again it will be able to move just because you never know.. BUT.. I do like what you have done with yours. You have actually inspired me to design my own world... Crosby Garrett is a real location, so the next one.. will be unique. Craig.
Glad I just found your channel today! I was thinking about a gritty layout (previously having a model railway as a teenager). The graffiti and grey tones you've made is a perfect execution.
Blinkin' Eck Michael, 4 years. Time flies when your cutting up little pieces of card, lol. The layout has really progressed during that time. Truly a piece of model engineering. Hope all is well, regards Bobby T.
Michael you are a very talented guy and Chandwell is a credit to you as its a brilliant layout and i have enjoyed watching you build the those excellent buildings. Cheers Kev
I really like how you have incorporated the layout into the office room furniture, it really does look like it belongs. Thing is it doesn't matter if the layout isn't finished because you have it set within a perfectly finished space. Great stuff, and I like how you say you try and build everything on the cheap, that's my kind of modelling, well I wish it was!
This looks superb, Michael. A beautifully balanced model that really reflects the real towns that you have drawn from. I like, too, that you have presented it so well in your office. You can be justly proud of your workmanship.
I am of the 4 seconds brigade as I only arrived at your channel thanks to a nanna nap and YT's algorithms. Amazing layout it looks way bigger than it is and just oozes character. I would be more than happy to go into your office any day, though how much work that would get done is not worth thinking about. I still have all my N gauge stock last used before I got married nearly 30 years ago.
Thank you for watching, and welcome to Chandwell! Thank you for your kind words. It is enjoyable to look up from work and gaze at the town. This all started as an excuse to use some of my old N Gauge stock from when I had a small layout as a teenager.
Thank you! Yeah I try to spend as little as possible. My biggest expense is the printer ink. I only spend about £100 a year on the layout and that includes the ink.
Great video this Michael delivered with no small amount of polish and a touch of swagger deserved of four amazing years of modelling. Highly inspiring and occasionally, ever so slightly intimidating! Here’s to the next four years. Now where’s that Britney...👍
Glad you enjoyed it! I don't ever mean to be intimidating! But I know what you mean when you see something that inspires you. I feel the same when I look at things like Patapsco Falls Division, N Scale Dystopia, Marklinofsweden, and such like.
Thank you! This video may be of interest to you. It explains a bit more about the overall look I am trying to achieve. 2022 in review and a look at what's coming in 2023 in Chandwell th-cam.com/video/HEo0Gy90q6A/w-d-xo.html
WOW Four short years and this progress creating an entire (REAL?) market town! A truly amazing feat at this level of reality and most especially - cost Couple things stand out... As mentioned the cost is kept very very low but it is a cliche that the Scotts aare canny with their cash Secondly, there is a small error in the description of chimney pots and staircases as they are entirely astounding in their realism while claimed to be not so... The "broad brush" modeling claim is also questionable as I firmly believe I could walk through this town, recognize all the places, meet with other folk famously mentioned and enjoy the informative company of your famous tour guide, id only I could shrink down to 1:148th my current size. Thank you for this wondrful tour. I have been following for some three + years and loved EVERY one of your videos. You continue to inspire my efforts
That is really kind to say, thank you. You have been one of my most regular supporters and I value yuor encouragement every single week. I hope you realise how much energy it gives me!
It's a labour of love and a work of art. I hope you have it insured (even if you don't like spending money!) Will be a sad day when you have finished building :(
It has to be a lot of fun to create the various scenes and story. Recording, with the details narrated by Brittany, is a really nice touch and makes the model and the story so convincing. This is really a very nice job all the way around!
Thank you. I find that thinking of Chandwell as a real place, or at least a place with a story, really does help me in my modelling. It helps make it gel together somehow.
I have only just come across your channel and as someone who lives very close to Bradford and Shipley...and Otley (I live in Keighley), looking at the buildings I didn't need the real life pictures or where they are, I was saying them as you were. The buildings are stunning. The Shipley Market tower looks like you just shrunk the original. This layout is inspiring. Once my family grows up, I have already informed my wife I was to build a layout and I may be taking ideas from this. Amazing job mate. Now, I have some more of your videos to watch :)
Thank you so much! If you enjoyed recognising the buildings, you may enjoy this silly video… th-cam.com/video/dVW8YTq06oQ/w-d-xo.html Enjoy your layout once you have the space. Making buildings is my most favourite thing.
Michael interesting update video good to see the setting also watched first video, change so. Unchanged in four years. I also use the plastic pipe covers from Wikes for storing trains being similar in profile to your conduit but for 00 gauge are larger
Michael this must be one of your fastest video to get into your Top 10 of most popular ones in just under a week. Really proves your modelling skills and very broad brush for atmosphere are really what makes the overall scene. Once the Old Town Hall is finished only one more large or a couple of smaller buildings on High St. You done Grand Victorian & Brutalists Modern. Perhaps Between the War Modernism or Art Deco is needed on High St or Station Rd. Ian
This really has been my fastest-growing video and has helped bring me ever so close to 10,000 subscribers too; a milestone I never thought I would reach. It is lovely to see that people appreciate my layout and my videos. Thanks for your ongoing support, Ian!
Michael ,all that in only 4 years. My N gauge layout is about the same size , but I have stalled after 6 years and nowhere near as complete as yours. I am so jealous! 😂. It is amazing. You really do have a flair for the buildings. Can't wait for the next ones.
Thank you! Mine progresses because I don't ever stop to run trains! I'd started many layouts in the past but never even finished laying the track. Having the TH-cam channel keeps me going. It's a nice variation to the hobby (model some days, make vidoes others) and keeps me going too - do some modelling as I have a video to do... :)
It seems a lot bigger then it is i really enjoy the build since i discovered chandwell about a year ago very much inspiration as i took the step towards N gauge a year and a half ago
Thank you! Yes, it is really small. I think having all the roads at different angles, and the ground all at different, but believable levels, really helps make it seem bigger.
You should be very proud of that layout. I am staggered just how much detail you have incorporated in to this layout.
"not as grim as you think it is" - brilliant
That's the best the Visit Chandwell Tourist Board could come up with!
This belongs in a museum. No curator in their right mind would deny it
That's very kind! Thank you.
Inspirational layout.
Thank you!
Your self-assessment of your scratch-building is way too harsh. The buildings look amazing throughout. I love the graffiti and little details, like the missing "k" from "Market". It has been a pleasure to see your layout, thank you.
Thank you - that is really kind.
The buildings look great, the colours of them are superb. You have a good eye for realism. It makes me feel it would be worth having and go for myself someday on making a layout of my own.
I am pleased that the colours have worked out. It's tricky getting the pallette right over a long period of time, but I think it works. Go for it - start small and try a few things out. Good luck!
It's so... small. Having watched you build so many buildings I had imagined an enormous layout. It all looks amazing.
Big thanks!
I found your channel 21 March. 3 weeks later and I've watched every video from the start to now. These are just wonderful and inspiring for my own n gauge plans. Thank you for showing all of your methods. Inkscape is so useful.
Wow, thank you! I can't imagine what it must be like to watch all the videos in one big binge. Now you've seen them all, what is your favourite part of Chandwell?
@@ChandwellDefinitely how you've made it seem like a place that is truly alive. The graffiti, the adverts for other shops that you then make etc. Obviously the fake history makes for great TH-cam entertainment too but all those little visible bits could be seen in real life too and I love that !
Thank you!
I remember the wiring videos . . . Can't quite get my swede round just how long I've been watching the channel . . . . Loved every minute
Thank you for joining me for the ride!
Thank you. Just thank you. You do excellent work. Thanks for taking us along and teaching us.
My pleasure!
The best thing you ever did was changing to a weekly update schedule. These Friday visits are a highlight of my week.
Thank you so much! I sometimes worry I will run out of things to say.
The layout sitting in that cabinetry looks utterly fantastic!
Thank you. Yeah, I thought that since I'd have to look at it constantly while I work, I really needed something that looked neat, so that was my first priority when I decided to make a layout.
utterly brilliant and just as I remember these West Yorkshire towns. Thank you. xx
Has this won some kind of award? It's absolutely fantastic!
No, it's won no award other than "Best model railway in the whole world ever" from my 7-yr old son!
I only discovered Chandwell last week, and its absolutely delightful. I'll be making a reservation at the Royal Scot for a week. I love the gritty realism and historic buildings, and it must be nice to ponder when you want to break from your work....just being an observer of life, and enjoy it. Thank you Michael. It's not only a pleasure to enjoy the finished product (if anything like this is ever finished), but also the brilliant tutorials that demonstrate construction techniques with common products rather than expensive and specialized hobby items. A heartfelt thanks for your videos! Best from the USA....
Thank you so much, and welcome to Chandwell. You've made the right choice to stay in the Royal Scot. It's a bit more expensive than the Earl Chandfield (especially if you stay in Grants Tower), but well worth it. The Earl Chandfield has quite "tired" carpets and smells a bit damp.
I am sneaky, I'll go and give a like to that 1st video of yours!
Nooooooooooooo! 😂
Many thanks for this tour Michael always a great delight to watch and see your layout grow, take care regards Barry.
You are very welcome
As this layout opened to the scenic bit i immediately shouted ‘Yorkshire’ and thats before you opened up with description.. that for me shouts authenticity. So nicely done on a ‘yorkshiremans’ minimum spend policy!! So much ‘feel’ and ‘truism’ that touched a nerve in the back of my neck!!! My hat goes off to you sir for achieving such a lovely and rewarding layout.
Your railway and all of the buildings are fantastic. I'm retired, and I only ever had the most basic of a model railway when I was a child, but seeing your complete set up makes me so happy.
That is so kind of you to say - thank you so much.
Hey that is a really cool synopsis of Chandwell, enjoyed it immensely!
Don
Thanks Don! I thought it was about time to do an intro for new viewers as much as old ones. Making this video took my mind off the Town Hall’s roof for a bit too.
Best "layout in a living space" I've seen. Looks like it grew there, well done. Love the details and the buildings' back stories. Superb!
Thank you very much!
I think you are modest to the extreme, your layout and buildings are brilliant and the layout is fantastically realistic
Another brilliant video, have been making recommendations to other to view your channel to see the quality and ideas. Keep the videos coming.
Much appreciated!
The layout was good on its own - particularly in that bespoke cabinet setting - but the buildings, bridges and other items are wonderful. The results you get from cardboard, glue and paint are just astounding! 💯
Thank you! I also use printed textures rather than just paint, and I think they help the overall scene very much.
Michael, You've done an outstanding on n Chandwell. The attention to detail is amazing.
Thank you very much!
Both amazing work and lovely humour and as a Yorkshireman I very much support your thrifty approach. I can't wait to see the next instalment from the charming Brittany.
Thank you!
Watching that HST coast over the viaduct is a stunning scene. Amazing layout.
Thank you!!
4yrs of outstanding modelling Michael. I looked back and I've followed since February 2020 - that's when I found your channel. You should be rightly proud of what you're building - one of the best N Gauge layouts in the UK. Cheers Euan
Wow, thank you, Euan. You have been an almost constant source of encouragement and a friendly word or two. I am always inspired by your own modelling too. Thank you for watching all this time. -Michael
That’s really rather lovely. It’s wonderful to see so many local landmarks modelled. I particularly liked the new Beehive and Shipley clock.
Thank you, and welcome to Chandwell! More local building a to come. I’ve added part of Otley Road in Shipley, and am currently adding bits of Brook Street in Ilkley, but with parts of Otley mixed in too.
Brilliant ,well done ,wow nightlife in Chandwell ,cannot wait
Looking forward to it!
Wonderful, inspirational modelling. Thanks so much for sharing. Pete.
Many thanks!
You sir are an artist!
Thank you!
The missing K in Chandwell Market was a highpoint for me. I was loving the grimness of it all but this just pushed it up to the next level. Well done!
Hahah! Than- you!
I know that part of the world very well and he's nailed it to perfection.
Thank you!
Your layout is probably the best layout I've ever seen. I've been sort of doing the same thing in HO scale for the past 5 months and watching your videos helps me a lot. I love the artistic side to it, none of your buildings looks like awful plastic buildings but looks like artistic representations of the real thing.
Thank you so much! Have fun with your own layout!
The layout is absolutely gorgeous!
Thank you!
Yes! This is fan-tas-tic! This is the kind of layout I always imagine doing. I hardly ever see that style anywhere: super-realistic, gritty urban city scenery with bridges and rivers and beautiful old city houses next to worn-down 70s monstrosities, self-built houses and bridges and roads... I love it!
Thank you so much, and welcome to Chandwell! :)
Dude, to be honest, I like small details, but this proves again that the overall atmosphere is a huge thing. This is beautiful. I like the weathered trains. I like the perfectly captured rundown scenery. And to be honest the details that do not stand closer inspection: They are not an eyesore like other things in other layouts often are. Beautifully done, sir. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you very much!
Thumbs up, love your work
Thank you! Cheers!
I absolutely love how you've captured the essence of West Yorkshire. I have no doubt what the market tower is based on, having grown up in the area, and travelled to Leeds and Bradford on the train in my twenties. Great job!!
Many thanks!
My sister in law knows I have many hobbies and have a deep appreciation for other people's art and work. I have enjoyed this video and look forward to the others in your library! Cheers from Brisbane Australia!
Thanks for sharing!
The whole concept, the construction, the promotion of what can be achieved in N Gauge makes this, Michael, one of the best layouts on TH-cam. The shorter length of the videos coupled with what is within them is excellent. How often have we seen a video showing the construction of a grass embankment which runs for nearly an hour!!!
I was amazed at the size of the layout, thinking it would be a lot larger, but then this is however what can be created when you are an expert in your field, and why N is so good.
Thanks for the tour Michael, really enjoyable. Cheers, Bob
Thank you Bob! The layout seems bigger because there are so many different vantage points to film from. I think because every road/river crosses the tracks and the layout at acute angles, and because none of the ground is flat, there's never really a clear line of sight from the front to the backscene, or from one side to the other. This makes it feel more like a town than a model.
Hi Michael,
Nice to see the layouts background and progress, to date. It also looks like your model making skills have moved on in leaps and bounds! Well done. Look forward to the next update/progress video.
When I look at my earliest work, I can definitely see places where I have improved! Roll on the next four years! :)
Michael, as the builder of a small layout myself (less than 5 m2) I have made a careful study of what it takes to make a small layout look larger. One important element is detail: small details, which are not necessarily easily seen, draw the viewer in and invite even closer examination. This leads the viewer to experience the layout from a closer distance, making the overall layout seem much larger. Chandwell is a classic example of this: your attention to detail is phenomenal, and you have created - and continue to create - your own little world where a visitor can get lost for hours on end. Thank you so much.
Thank you so much for your kind words. I think you’re right but I’ve never really considered it before. I think something else that works well is that all my roads cross the layout at an angle other than 90 degrees. And the my go up hill. With the buildings in place, this means that there are so many different angles to see things from and you have to move around a lot to get a clear view of any given thing. To me, that makes the town seem quite real too.
Clever use of space and makes a great change to see a curved layout......
Thank you!
Just the best...makes an old man very happy
Thank you very much indeed. That makes a not-so-young man happy to hear! :)
Chandwell.
Where everything is planned well,
Where you never need to oversell,
It meets our needs.
Chandwell.
Planning worthy of a Nobel,
Where you can always say a farewell,
To posh buggers from Leeds.
Oh I really did like this!
Michael, it's a thing of beauty. Something I really enjoy is how the story of Chandwell and it's buildings are still evolving. 👍Ps Really love the meticulous documentation of your electrical / track connections. Also, look forward to Brittany's tour and entertainment guide 👍
Glad you enjoy it!
Its an amazing layout Michael. the attention to the detailing of your buildings is very realistic. what a creation my friend. and its all done in N gauge. pure Magic. best wishes Tony
Thank you Tony. It’s an honour to have you comment here. Your layout is an endless inspiration to me.
Hi Michael, your layout looks superb, in particular the buildings, you have done some brilliant work. You have unique models there. I think sometimes folk forget it’s an illusion we are creating, get too close and you can always tell it’s a model. Most importantly it has to be what works for you, doesn’t bankrupt you, and the pleasure it gives you (and the kids) making and operating it. Well done, all the best Stephen.
Thank you Stephen, and all very wise words there; I agree entirely.
Michael, your layout continues to grow and inspire the rest of us.
It continues to grow! Whatever will I do when it's fully grown!?
A wonderful video. I had no concept of the size of the layout nor it's scale. This was fantastic!
Thank you very much!
I’m just about to start building card buildings for a new layout. It has been 35 years since I built a layout with card buildings, with the difference being that I planned to use a scanner, a printer, and have an ideal spec and large supply of card since my building days in my childhood. Your card buildings have blown me away and really inspired me. Thanks for the tip on that free software, it looks perfect for my plan. I love your layout!
Thank you, and good luck with your modelling!
The downward shot of the 31 crossing the station throat over the viaduct was amazing. That pointwork is a thing of beauty! One day you just have to do a time lapse of that area from that angle.
Thumbs up well earned!
Mike.
Thank you. I loved that shot too.
Having seen this on Facebook, I’m so glad I’m found it on TH-cam. Is it wrong that I’m equally impressed with where the layout is built? Amazing!!
Thank you very much - not wrong at all! :)
An amazing place, Just setting out on building an N gauge layout and this has certainly inspired me with ideas.
Great stuff - have fun!
A masterpiece of fine detail and even more impressive that you do this whilst being economical.
Thank you!
Absolutely taken aback by your design , it looks amazing ,you made great use of the space 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼
Thank you!
What a stunning layout. Not normally a huge fan of N gauge as it’s just so small but the detail you have a just superb.
Thank you very much!
Brilliant... came to find out how to make cardboard buildings... stayed to see the whole thing develop. You are doing an amazing job.
Thank you very much for sticking around for the journey!
The buildings on your layout are the nicest I've seen. The look so realistic. It's hard to believe that the scale is 1:160. I'm gonna watch more of this channel. Greetings from the Netherlands.
Thank you very much. I have really enjoyed making the buildings.
There's so much to love about this, I think all of the back-stories and the very detailed perspectives are the best bit! Also amazing how you've fit so much into such a small space without it feeling cramped, cracking effort! 😊
Thank you so much!
I keep thinking I'm looking at an H0 layout. Absolute marvel the details on the buildings and even the trains look so good. N has come a long way. Your modeling skills are outstanding and good for you for using anything you can get hold of instead of just buying of the shelf.
Thank you!
Well that was worth clicking on.
Never come across Chandwell before , a n excellent depiction of of a run down station and it’s environs. Top work, really good.
Thank you so much, and welcome to Chandwell!
A great new introduction to a railway that has grown on us over the last four years. The quality of the models isn't compromised by their low cost. It is a compliment to Michael that it all looks so real.
Chandwell, not only as grim as you think it is but also an area of Outstanding Natural Beautiful Modelling
George
Thank you George!
Haven't been with you for the full four, but I remember when there were only bridges and rivers! It's been a great ride so far and has started me down the printed card buildings route for my own N Gauge project. Here's hoping the glue holds, and the ink doesn't fade for any of us!
May the glue be sticky and the ink be fast. Bon voyage, sir!
I've yet to see more convincing buildings and you certainly have an eye for perspective. Really atmospheric.
Thank you!
Hello Michael, Thank you for your nice video. It shows precisely the scale and complexity of the Chandwell layout.
Also a pleasant insight introducing your family.
You certainly have the rare ability and skillset to conceive and develop this magnificent project. Wonderful !
I've lived in Brittany since 1995 but enjoy your channel as one of my favourites.
Thank you so much! I enjoyed recording this one.
Brilliant to see all the progress you've made over the last 4 years in one video. Such a stunning layout and brilliant backstories, it's a real joy following your progress! Here's to the next 4 years👍
Andrew🙂
Thank you for joining me for such a large part of that 4 years!
Great to see. I love the design into the cabinets. I guess you're not planning on moving anytime soon!! :) Craig.
Thank you. Yes, I shudder to think what I'd do if we ever decide to move house!
@@Chandwell Yeah.. I designed mine soo that I could move it.. (Good job as it move from Oz to US...) But right now, even though I'm still working on this layout, I'm planning another one in my head.. Again it will be able to move just because you never know.. BUT.. I do like what you have done with yours. You have actually inspired me to design my own world... Crosby Garrett is a real location, so the next one.. will be unique. Craig.
Glad I just found your channel today! I was thinking about a gritty layout (previously having a model railway as a teenager). The graffiti and grey tones you've made is a perfect execution.
Welcome to Chandwell! Thank you!
Blinkin' Eck Michael, 4 years. Time flies when your cutting up little pieces of card, lol. The layout has really progressed during that time. Truly a piece of model engineering. Hope all is well, regards Bobby T.
Thank you Bobby. All is well in Chandwell thank you. Hope all is well with you.
Michael you are a very talented guy and Chandwell is a credit to you as its a brilliant layout and i have enjoyed watching you build the those excellent buildings.
Cheers Kev
Thank you!
I really like how you have incorporated the layout into the office room furniture, it really does look like it belongs. Thing is it doesn't matter if the layout isn't finished because you have it set within a perfectly finished space. Great stuff, and I like how you say you try and build everything on the cheap, that's my kind of modelling, well I wish it was!
Oh thank you! Yes, I do try to do everything on the cheap!
This looks superb, Michael. A beautifully balanced model that really reflects the real towns that you have drawn from. I like, too, that you have presented it so well in your office. You can be justly proud of your workmanship.
Thank you very much indeed!
Great tour of Chandwell. I look forward to the next one as always. Thanks Michael. Roy.
Thank you again!
I am of the 4 seconds brigade as I only arrived at your channel thanks to a nanna nap and YT's algorithms. Amazing layout it looks way bigger than it is and just oozes character. I would be more than happy to go into your office any day, though how much work that would get done is not worth thinking about. I still have all my N gauge stock last used before I got married nearly 30 years ago.
Thank you for watching, and welcome to Chandwell! Thank you for your kind words. It is enjoyable to look up from work and gaze at the town. This all started as an excuse to use some of my old N Gauge stock from when I had a small layout as a teenager.
Your detail work is quite amazing!
Thank you so much 😀
Excellent work, so much detail. I hadn’t realised you were working on such a tiny budget, it doesn’t show.
Thank you! Yeah I try to spend as little as possible. My biggest expense is the printer ink. I only spend about £100 a year on the layout and that includes the ink.
Great video this Michael delivered with no small amount of polish and a touch of swagger deserved of four amazing years of modelling. Highly inspiring and occasionally, ever so slightly intimidating! Here’s to the next four years. Now where’s that Britney...👍
Glad you enjoyed it! I don't ever mean to be intimidating! But I know what you mean when you see something that inspires you. I feel the same when I look at things like Patapsco Falls Division, N Scale Dystopia, Marklinofsweden, and such like.
Wow I love your buildings. I’ll have to go back and check out your previous videos now.
Thank you! This video may be of interest to you. It explains a bit more about the overall look I am trying to achieve. 2022 in review and a look at what's coming in 2023 in Chandwell
th-cam.com/video/HEo0Gy90q6A/w-d-xo.html
Been watching & enjoying your layout since you first started as I was going to copy it in OO
Thank you for joining me on my Chandwell journey!
The buildings look so good!
Thank you!
WOW
Four short years and this progress creating an entire (REAL?) market town!
A truly amazing feat at this level of reality and most especially - cost
Couple things stand out...
As mentioned the cost is kept very very low but it is a cliche that the Scotts aare canny with their cash
Secondly, there is a small error in the description of chimney pots and staircases as they are entirely astounding in their realism while claimed to be not so...
The "broad brush" modeling claim is also questionable as I firmly believe I could walk through this town, recognize all the places, meet with other folk famously mentioned and enjoy the informative company of your famous tour guide, id only I could shrink down to 1:148th my current size.
Thank you for this wondrful tour. I have been following for some three + years and loved EVERY one of your videos. You continue to inspire my efforts
That is really kind to say, thank you. You have been one of my most regular supporters and I value yuor encouragement every single week. I hope you realise how much energy it gives me!
Those buildings are fabulous!
Thank you!
It's a labour of love and a work of art. I hope you have it insured (even if you don't like spending money!) Will be a sad day when you have finished building :(
I don’t actually. Other than the track, it’s only worth about £200 so no point in insuring it.
It has to be a lot of fun to create the various scenes and story. Recording, with the details narrated by Brittany, is a really nice touch and makes the model and the story so convincing. This is really a very nice job all the way around!
Thank you. I find that thinking of Chandwell as a real place, or at least a place with a story, really does help me in my modelling. It helps make it gel together somehow.
I have only just come across your channel and as someone who lives very close to Bradford and Shipley...and Otley (I live in Keighley), looking at the buildings I didn't need the real life pictures or where they are, I was saying them as you were. The buildings are stunning. The Shipley Market tower looks like you just shrunk the original. This layout is inspiring. Once my family grows up, I have already informed my wife I was to build a layout and I may be taking ideas from this. Amazing job mate. Now, I have some more of your videos to watch :)
Thank you so much! If you enjoyed recognising the buildings, you may enjoy this silly video… th-cam.com/video/dVW8YTq06oQ/w-d-xo.html Enjoy your layout once you have the space. Making buildings is my most favourite thing.
Wow that is an amazing layout and the detail really is incredible, I honestly did get the West Yorkshire vibes looking at it :)
Thank you! I am pleased you picked up on the Yorkshire themes.
Really enjoyed looking at your layout. Great track set-up and good to see 31s and 43s side by side as in the 1990s.
Glad you enjoyed it
Michael interesting update video good to see the setting also watched first video, change so. Unchanged in four years. I also use the plastic pipe covers from Wikes for storing trains being similar in profile to your conduit but for 00 gauge are larger
Thank you!
I find your videos both entertaining and relaxing. You do a marvelous job of presentation as well as the work you are presenting.
Thank you very much!
I’m loving Lassbrookes
Really nice setup I’m jealous. It’s amazing how much you can fit with N over OO.
It really is!
May can't come soon enough! ❤
🤣
I think you're Britney's biggest fan!
@@Chandwell That sounds a bit scary 😟
Michael this must be one of your fastest video to get into your Top 10 of most popular ones in just under a week. Really proves your modelling skills and very broad brush for atmosphere are really what makes the overall scene. Once the Old Town Hall is finished only one more large or a couple of smaller buildings on High St. You done Grand Victorian & Brutalists Modern. Perhaps Between the War Modernism or Art Deco is needed on High St or Station Rd. Ian
This really has been my fastest-growing video and has helped bring me ever so close to 10,000 subscribers too; a milestone I never thought I would reach. It is lovely to see that people appreciate my layout and my videos. Thanks for your ongoing support, Ian!
This layout is amazing! I can definitely see the west yorkshire essence resemblances! Great job
Thank you so much!
Incredible work. Wow!
Thank you!
Just awesome scenery. Doesn't bear close inspection? PAH! PAH, I say! It's got the FEEL...
Thank you!
Michael ,all that in only 4 years. My N gauge layout is about the same size , but I have stalled after 6 years and nowhere near as complete as yours. I am so jealous! 😂. It is amazing. You really do have a flair for the buildings. Can't wait for the next ones.
Thank you! Mine progresses because I don't ever stop to run trains! I'd started many layouts in the past but never even finished laying the track. Having the TH-cam channel keeps me going. It's a nice variation to the hobby (model some days, make vidoes others) and keeps me going too - do some modelling as I have a video to do... :)
It seems a lot bigger then it is i really enjoy the build since i discovered chandwell about a year ago very much inspiration as i took the step towards N gauge a year and a half ago
Thank you! Yes, it is really small. I think having all the roads at different angles, and the ground all at different, but believable levels, really helps make it seem bigger.