Toy Train Scenery

Well now that we got our toy train set and tried it out for a while it’s time to start thinking about adding some toy train scenery. The most favorite part of owning a model train is designing and building the railway and scenery.

The foundation of your new railroad is the benchwork. You have a couple of choices here. You can go out and purchase a ready made model train benchwork kit or construct one yourself. Buying one does have its good points. They come precut and have holes drilled. Usually easy to set up and take down if you have to move. Plus you can take it to toy and model train conventions and shows. Much better than placing a piece of plywood over two saw horses, way more stable.
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However, constructing your own may take more time and be a little complex. You will get exactly what you desire. It all starts with a plan or railway layout. Ask yourself these questions. How big do you want it and can you add to it if so desired? Is there enough space in the house, should it be square, round, or curvy? Most benchwork legs are 28 inches but you can design them accordingly. Make sure the thickness of the plywood will support the weight of the trains and accessories, 3/8” to ½” should do fine. You might have to cut it in sections if you are planning on making it portable.

Other aesthetics could include tunnels, bridges, roads, meadows, waterfalls, etc… not to mention towns and villages. Don’t forget about the small details, bushes, flowers, signs, phone poles, rock croppings, signs and streetlights. Flowing water offers a nice effect. This list goes on.

When designing your railway scenery always try to keep perspective in balance. You are attempting to make the all the scenery appear larger than they really are. Use different sizes and types of scenery to accomplish this. Experiment by placing small trees in front and large in back, also use mountains and stones. Try this until desired effect is complete. The landscape and scenery should reflect the theme you are trying accomplish. For example, suppose you have a coal train hauling coal. You could place a little coal mine on the side of your mountain with a tailings pond. You can get some more ideas in the resources tab on this website.

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Isn’t this why we all love model trains anyway? Where else do we get to show off our creative and artistic attributes, but by designing and constructing these beautiful and dramatic real to life landscapes and worlds for our friends and family to enjoy.

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