Model train layout plans The answer to this question dictates the size of the layout along with the scale and track plan that will allow you to thoroughly enjoy your model railroad. MAGAZINE Layout plans for N, Nn3, HO, HOn21⁄2, Sn3, and On21⁄2 A SUPPLEMENT TO MODEL RAILROADER MAGAZINE You can see all of Bill’s HO scale train layout here. These N scale track plans are small, but each has enough features to be interesting. Some of the track plans are precise, clear and easy to follow, but some plans are no more than pencil sketched and give a rough impression of the layout. com from Model Railroader, Classic Toy Trains, and Garden Railways. Model Railroad: All the information, tools and techniques you need to design and build your own realistic, artistic and operational - model railroad empire. That’s why it’s the number one choice for model train beginners. When applied, sprinkle fine mixed scenery material (sand, leaves, wood chips, twigs) Chop up in an Old Blender. One for advanced model railroaders and one for beginners! Nice HO model train layout 4×6 A track plan idea for beginners on 4′ x 6′. Jul 15, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. The official online store for the Atlas Model Railroad Company, Inc. We've included every train set component we can find, so you can draw on all the major manufacturers to create the perfect railroad layout. 4x6 layout - I bought a Bachman DCC starter set with EZ-track and bought some expansion packs . This model train layouts landing page is the home for model train layouts at Trains. Mar 22, 2017 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. Download this free 15-page PDF for 28 inspiring N, Nn3, HO, HOn 2 ½, Sn3, and On 2 ½ layout plans. All the locomotives and rolling stock have been saved. 5x10 N scale layout - I typically run four trains, a mix of steam and early diesel locomotives. Limited space meant I built up instead of out Here Bob talks us through his small N scale layout, step by step. Dual level HO scale layout - The helix and the two mainlines come back to level. Well, we’re here to help! The numbers in the title refer to feet. HO logging layout plans Al’s been in touch – he’s sent in pics and a narrative of his stunning railroad, adding to the HO logging layout plans on the blog: “Attached are some photos of my 4′ x 8′ layout for you to post if you desire. either left-hand traffic or right-hand traffic. Feb 17, 2021 · N scale model railroads are often small layouts based on 4 x 8-foot sheets of plywood, for obvious reasons. With Some of the track plans are for beautiful, finished layouts. Boyd shows what a little planning can do: Boyd’s model train hobby. Some track plans are just ideas, some I’ve realized meanwhile. The author, Linn Westcott, also explains how to convert the plans for use in the various HO train layouts are the most popular model railroad scale in the world. Frank’s HO train layout: “I ordered and assembled about a “baker’s dozen” pre-fabricated tables; purchased boxes of 4 by 6 foot sheets of 2 inch thick, blue foam boards; boxes of HO scale flex track, boxes of cork track bed; scores of turn-outs, many boxes of Our scaled plan sets include traceable patterns and templates, as well as a pictorial guide to help even a novice model builder create realistic scale model structures for a Model Railroad layout or diorama. Over 400 layout designs, train set ideas and prototype plans. Whether it’s your first time and you want model trains for beginners, or you are looking for creative track plans that match your holiday decor, we’ve got you covered. When starting the hobby, many of us would have started out with a starter set. The layout plans also include 2’x3′ dimensions, flex track and circular tracks running side by side. All Locomotives are DCC conversions Jan 22, 2019 · Download this free PDF for a HO and N scale plan, a waterfront railroad layout, a small shelf Union Pacific inspired layout, and a three-in-one layout plan from Model Railroader. Our earliest plans might have simply been an oval of sectional track on the floor or sheet of plywood. A few sidings for freight wagons complete this small N scale model railroad layout. More plans to come! Explore and get inspiration from the Christmas tree train layout plans in this handy guide. Some of the layouts are already presented Six inspring ideas and track plans to use for small layouts, including N, 009, OO and HO scales. The 2x4 plans should easily fit on a 4x8 in HO scale Shelf layouts - Just for fun, here are five pictures of my "Little Walkley" shelf layouts and its On30 companion "Sandy Flats" • PLANS FOR GETTING STARTED IN HO OR N SCALE • INCLUDES COMPLETE TRACK LISTS • A SUPPLEMENT TO Workshop tips Two great layouts for beginners Jun 27, 2017 · See detailed diagrams of 5 compact track plans featured in Model Railroader magazine in this free guide. Sep 20, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. A flat tabletop is a lot easier to build than L-girder benchwork, and almost any home has room for a 4 x 8 table at one side of a bedroom or basement. The layouts listed here include O gauge, N scale, HO scale and Lionel FasTrack systems and can help provide the inspiration needed to build your own model train layout for the holiday season. HO gauge train layout “In the mountains” If you own gym hall, then it’s no problem to create HO gauge train layouts with high mountains, deep valleys and lots of bridges, right? Anyone can do big. Some of the layouts are already presented in SCARM blog, but there are new projects and more will come soon. Brian’s been back in touch, adding to the collection of HO scale shelf model railroad track plans to the blog: “Hi Alastair, I have finally got the track plan of the upper level out of my head and have drawn a sketch to scale and onto paper. If you’re a beginner, don’t miss this comprehensive guide that Check out 15 super realistic model railroad logging layout plans that you can use for ideas and inspiration. Build-ing such layouts is a path many take to get started in model railroading, and HO (1:87 proportion to the prototype) is the most widely modeled scale with an abundance of affordable structures, locomotives, and rolling stock available. Below you will find some medium to bedroom sized Model Railroad Track Plans for your use. Oct 5, 2020 · Welcome to Five Easy Track Plans, which contains plans for 4 x 8-foot HO model railroads. Traditionally, this comprises a locomotive, controller, track, and a couple of coaches or wagons. From the multi-award winning model railway blog. You’ll find captivating ideas including villages, portable layouts, and double loops. Aug 8, 2019 · Discover the different train track layouts you can use in an HO Scale that range from elaborate mountain passes to industrial scenes. Adjust the plans to suit your track type, scale and space, and download the AnyRail files to customize them. For more great track planning ideas, see Model Railroader magazine and Model Railroad Planning 2019, on sale January 15. Here is it: SCARM – Model Train Layouts & Track Plans Most of the content in the site is created by SCARM users and Discover how to create stunning HO scale train layouts with easy tips and expert advice. So let Access free samples for your model railroad layout. This Track Plan Database is the home for S-gauge and O-gauge track plans intended for toy train layouts. Remember, the question of "what is the best track plan for beginners?" The right answer is that there is no one size fits all track plan. Jan 29, 2025 · When it come to track plans, everyone has a favorite. Though I continually make Dec 17, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs with Lionel tracks. N scale trains – Arnie’s “I live in New York and have been an N scale trains model railroader for many years. The entire HO train layout setup is literally assembled on hands and knees! First built a 4’ by 8’ table on 6 sets of casters that could move around while building and for maintenance. I scoured ebay and local sources for bargains in rolling stock and locomotives. Tremendous list of o gauge layouts for small spaces to help spark up ideas for your own model train layout. Great things have been done on a single Designing with AnyRail is like having the run of the ultimate model railway shop. Why Choose N Scale Track Plans? One of the biggest advantages is the wide range of track design options such as continuous running loops and switching layouts. Use the filters to search by size, scale, type and issue where it first appeared. All embedded in a metropolitan region. But what if you only have a 4×8 baseboard? Abstraction is necessary to get a coherent overall impression. This On30 train layout is for the purpose of talking it to shows and hopefully spark enthusiasm for model railroading in future generations. You can see the picture’s of Paul’s OO scale turntable track plan here. In any case, there are plenty of interesting operating tasks. Long trains. Default DescriptionHow To Plan A Model Railway Layout The ideal model railway layout will look different to every hobbyist, and that ‘ideal’ is likely to be determined by your early experiences. You can think as hard as you like, but unless you put some track down and get going, nothing happens. List of 3 stunning complete n scale train layouts to help provide design ideas for your own N scale layout plans. Dive into … Read more Jul 17, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in N scale. Just love what Bill has done here: Bill’s model railroad train layout. (Bob) Sprague has created hundreds of layout plans, including more than fifteen published in Model Railroader. Building your first model railroad HO scale layout can be a daunting task. My new modules will be 48″ high and I will be adding a couple of operating oil wells and storage tanks. The goal of our designs is to create a functional, realistic, and aesthetically pleasing model railroad that reflects your interests and vision. A busy multi-track main line. Whether we Mar 28, 2024 · May 17, 2023 – Easily design and draw a scale track plan for your Model Railroad with illustrated step by step instructions. This page is dedicated to the many model railroaders who don't have enough room to build a layout or so they think. My layout was constructed about 10 years ago after about 2 years of work on it. 4×8 HO model train layout A 4′ x 8′ baseboard is very popular for HO model train layouts. Another Mike’s too: N scale train layout on a door. Design and build OO, HO, N gauge track layouts with the top planning tools. This corresponds to 183 x 122 cm. The section near the wall will be a power plant HO Scale Model Railroad Layouts If you’re searching for insights on how to build HO scale model railroad layouts, then look no further. "The quickest and easiest way to build a stunning layout" Let me show all the model railroading tips and tricks - from the experts on the blog - you need to plan and build, step by step, a breath taking layout How to save a fortune on engines, rolling stock and scenery Aug 27, 2021 · So chances are good you’re on this page because you’re not sure what type of model layout you want. N scale track plans for free Looking for track plan ideas? Here you are! Select your preferred size or use the short description as a guide. Some of the locos and rolling stock are sixty years old. After all, each modeler values and prioritizes different aspects of model railroading. Below you will find some Micro sized and Small Track Plans that will give you some ideas for your own Model Railroad. With instant 3D Viewer, Model Trains Simulator and rich set of useful features. Subscribe today for unlimited access to all track plans. HO train layouts – are they the most popular scale? Have a look at some of the train layouts and make your own mind up. The layouts vary from simple loop-to-loop track plans to enormous world record breaking designs and everything in Show your layout plans here, and have a discussion about them Oct 25, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in HO scale with Atlas tracks. Here's 15 remarkable O gauge train layouts for inspiration when building or planning your own model railroad. I setup a double 0val with cross overs. We feature beginner and advanced help on all model railroading scales, including layout track plans, model railroad product reviews, model train news, and model railroad forums. Oct 25, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of large-sized SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. Looking for Z scale train layouts inspiration? Explore these 10 charming z scale train layout designs to guide your next model railroad. One segment begins in Idaho Falls, where it exchanges with the UP, and heads northeast and then southeast into the Grand Tetons. Our designs are tailored to your wishes, needs, skill set and space. Use layout design elements as shown here in planning basic track design. Oct 4, 2019 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. The grid on the plans, when it exists, is 1 x 1 foot for the scale indicated. Explore realistic models, scenery, and accessories to preview before adding them to your miniature railway collection. Here designed for Märklin tracks, but feel free to adapt it for other HO manufacturers. Model train track plans – Charlie’s Charlie has been in touch with some more model train track plans: “Design, redesign, and building layouts are interrelated in that you should always keep a basic plan in mind as you start a build. The last picture is my live steam train in 1. HO scale layout plans – Rich’s : “Here are more pictures of my 4×8 model railroad. So a 4×8 N scale train layout plan is just a layout that fits in a 4×8 feet (which is roughly 1. This page is home to Model Railroader tracks plans as downloadable PDFs. They are displayed to the same scale. ion and inspire you to make that all importan start wit Jul 16, 2025 · A look at creative track plans for every skill level, whether you're just starting out, have some experience, or are an advanced modeler. Dec 12, 2024 · Layout, Building, and Bridge Plans to Make Your Model Railroad Stand Out 6 days ago · Free collection of model train track plans (model railway layouts) in model scale N created by model train hobbyists complete with description, preview and track systems used. Mar 1, 2018 · This free booklet from Model Railroader magazine contains plans for 4 x 8-foot HO scale model railroads. Welcome to Bob's Track Plans Custom model railroad layout designs for any scale, any gauge, any prototype, any era Robert W. manufacturer and seller of model trains and track in N, HO, O and Z scales. The model train layout in the photo features a vibrant and detailed HO scale setup using Bachmann EZ track. I have marked out the main areas of the layout and tried Here's a walk-through of top rated model railroad shelf layout plans that you can use for ideas when building your own model train layout. 4x8 HO scale - What started out as a crude drawing quickly turned into a 4 x 8 with sectional track and scenery Nov 4, 2019 · Model Railroader is the world's largest magazine on model trains and model railroad layouts. New website with free layouts and track plans - Mixy - 11-01-2013 Hello all A new website starts to collect together model train track plans and layouts in all scales and sizes, build with SCARM planning software. They range in size from 4'x6' up to 8'x10'and can be sized accordingly to suit your own Model Railroad space by adjusting the length, width, and radius as needed to suit your scale of Model Railroad. Bob specializes in designs based on prototype locations, routes, and scenes. Discover how to create stunning HO scale train layouts with easy tips and expert advice. Sep 3, 2025 · Master model railway layout planning with our complete guide. Oct 25, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs. This track plan is a true "point-to-point" design. All rolling stock is either scratchbuilt or built from LaBelle, Central Valley or old Roundhouse kits. Luke came to me with an interesting prototype and an interesting space in which to model it. Fortunately, here’s list of exceptional model train layouts that can provide ideas for your own layout design. Multi level N scale - The layout which is DC powered has a lower deck to store up to ten ready made trains in open ended sidings HO scale train layout 6x4 - It was constructed using Peco code 100 set - track mainly to be able to shunt using #2 curves Free Track Plans for your Hornby model railway. Jan 14, 2024 · Jeff Shaw went from making one portable model train layout to two with his “canyon” and “island” layouts that are shippable by parcel service. Oct 31, 2013 · Here is the new website for layouts and track plans in all gauges and sizes, created with SCARM planning software: SCARM – Model Train Layouts & Track Plans Most of the content in the site is created by SCARM users and sent by e-mail. You’ll need to focus on one key model, then design the railroad to make best use of that type of engine and May 17, 2022 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in S scale. There’s something about Leo’s layout that catches the eye: Leo treats us to more pics of his HO scale layout. . Try to stick to it as long as everything fits, but be ready to make changes as you run into snags. Small HO layouts Small HO layouts are a difficult task. The first was the space available and second, an operational railroad. Apr 27, 2025 · This N scale track plan was designed to fit within a space measuring approximately 16½' x 12½' with a staging yard along an adjoining wall. When it's time to build, you can trust AnyRail's plans and shopping lists to produce a layout that works the first time. 4′ x 8′ N scale track plan A huge urban terminus station. For details and downloads click the links. 25×2. Because of this, the lower right area is severely cramped. Here we design an entire layout so you can get building. Follow guidelines and basic considerations before planning a train track design. Even the first-time modeler can lay the track listed with these plans, build a small group of structures and add scenery, while those with some experience can build a layout this size to hone their skills. Nich also had some wise words – his first layout was a learning curve, and that’s what it’s all about, getting started. Small HOn3 track plans - My track plan was determined by two things. Mar 26, 2022 · Best Track Planning Tools for Model Railways If you're building a model railway, you should take a look at the best track planner for model railways with free resources, books & software. Mar 1, 2018 · Free collection of model train track plans (model railway layouts) created by model train hobbyists complete with description, preview and track systems used. Jim makes a start on his 4×8 “I built a 10’ X 16’ shed, initially for my grandsons to leave their train layouts set up in, but with plans to eventually “appropriate” some of the floor space for the 4’ X 8’ benchwork of an HO scale layout. All plans in this supplement were drawn from past issues of Model Railroad Planning. Remember that these N scale track plans are the most popular type of track plans for model railroaders that want the enjoyment of longer track runs but only have a small space to build a model train layout. By centering his design around a turntable, Paul has created a … Read More » Model railway layout plans to fit your space, including many 6x4 and 8x4 designs Model Railway Track Plans: the top 5 free websites & resources for layouts, ideas, and track planning. Perfect for your model railway! Nov 10, 2023 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of small-sized SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. Track crossover - Sometimes a locomotive will come through that is not quite all on the rail and hit it pretty hard. The HO train photo series walks you through the construction of the benchwork, track plan, model train scenery and Oct 29, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in Z scale. Minimum radius is 9-3/4" unless otherwise noted. Free Track Plans for your Hornby model railway. How to build a model train table - While my home has space for a finished table, I quickly discovered I needed alot more space to build it! Get 10 monumental ideas for indoor g scale train layouts that you can add to your own model railroad or track plan. The 2-track mainline in front of this 4×8 HO scale layout has directional traffic. Travelers and passengers have to cross the track to reach the parking space and the station buliding. Track Plan Database Track Plan Database brought to you by Hundreds of track plans to get you started. This plan is what I call a "true north" plan, meaning that no matter where, in the room you are standing, as long as you are looking at the O gauge track - The layout is approximately 29 feet x 34 feet with ~697 feet of track, 50 switches and 11 diamond crossings. Suitable for OO, HO and N gauge layouts. And this one: N scale train door layout plans. From beginners to more advanced model railroaders, the tips and techniques will save you from costly mistakes. More plans to come! Model railroad switching layouts to help inspire you with new ideas to add into your own model train layout. After all, the design should be appealing, right? See how I solved this challenge on 3′ x 4′. And to make it interesting, I’ve created two versions of the same theme. Step-by-step directions of HO scale track plans for shelf layouts including top three layout designs. However, long model trains don’t fit this 2′ x 4′ N scale track plan idea. Worth to mention: The station building lies between the tracks. I love the pictures folks have submitted of their layouts giving photographic reality to their creations. Learn space optimization, track design, scenery planning and electrical systems for your perfect miniature world. Lots of modellers in the past have asked me for a track plan and where everything fits in it. The following track plan shows that even long trains, busy traffic and challenging shunting operations are possible on that size! Oct 31, 2013 · Hello all :) A new website was launched this week, intended to collect and show model train track plans and layouts in all scales and sizes, build with SCARM software. Learn how to build a model train layout with step-by-step directions to help make sure you save time, money and frustration. Here are a few of them: Tom’s ON30 mining layout “This is an On30 mining layout in the early 20th Century. Foam board for nearly all the foundation and hills which are easy to work with and mold. I used Atlas Right Track software to design them. Search it for railway layouts and railroad track plans by scale, size, tracks and other criteria. Dive into these Christmas tree train layouts that showcase a wide range of track layout plans suitable for all types of model train enthusiasts. Jim’s been in touch with his 4×6 train layout. However, for some shunting tasks or changes of direction, each track is used. Feb 1, 2019 · When you have more than a bedroom for your railroad, you have some choices to make regarding what to fill the space with. Some like layouts with dense foliage and rolling hills Free model railroad track plans and layoutsPaul has shared his OO scale turntable track plan. It's all down to what you want out of your layout. Layout planning takes vague dreams of a model railroad to a track plan which can be built. e. Leave gaps/ ( loose Joiners) for tracks to expand / contract track gets out Of Jan 22, 2016 · N Scale Western USA Here is a layout plan based on a cut down version of the Model Railroader Inyo and White Mountain track plan, shortened by 2' in the vertical dimension (on the page). I know of many model railroaders who have started building without much of a plan and Modular model train layout - because long periods of time to construction, another to laying track, another to wiring gets a bit tedious. Most of these are custom layout designs in HO or N scale that were commissioned by a client. It is a walking beam locomotive with a toybox caboose Portable model train table - decided to build a railway that could be folded into its own layout requiring less than 10min to uncrate used to be able to create a new toy train layout in the blink of an eye. Every one of the 101 track plans in this book is an adventure in model railroad design — a complete miniature world with a theme, purpose, and atmosphere. They are perfect for tiny spaces, or for those just getting back into the hobby and curious about different track plan options. Find over 400 free track plans for your model railway, from small stations to large terminals, based on real or imaginary locations. I am 73 years old and retired from a career in commercial fire protection. Here's a walk-through of top rated model railroad shelf layout plans that you can use for ideas when building your own model train layout. Perfect for your model railway! Here we will touch on the basics of O Gauge 3-rail track, the different types of 3-rail track, give some basics on layout design, and provide several track plan ideas as well as books with more ideas for turning a starter set into a miniature railroad empire. The plans range in size from tiny lay- outs that would fit on a card table to a huge estate- size railroad designed for a specially built building. 5″ scale. Oct 4, 2021 · Ready to build a model train layout but just don't have the space? Well, a railroad shelf layout might be the way to go! take a look at some of our favorites now! Mar 21, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in O scale. U shaped model train layouts - Despite being in the US, I decided to build my model around UK trains and scenery, based in the 1940s. Everybody loves model railroad track plans, so I've collected some of my favorite examples on these web pages. Mar 2, 2018 · Free collection of model train track plans (model railway layouts) in model scale H0 created by model train hobbyists complete with description, preview and track systems used. Capture the imagination with these meticulously planned track ideas. But the real highlight is hidden under the cover. This type of model railroad comes in many different track types, a wide variety of locomotives and several forms of model train scenery. Trains enter the layout heading in opposite directions. This layout is perfect for those interested in model railroad plans. Discover 10 awe-inspiring lionel fastrack layouts to spark your imagination to enhance your model railroad setup. Mar 21, 2025 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in O scale. Others are no more than track with a few trains running. Nice scenarios can be depicted, although the space requirement is moderate. We might have bought a crossing for a figure eight and turnouts so we could have spurs with perhaps a passing siding to allow us to run around our train and run two trains in opposite directions. Some prefer intricate freight switching layouts, while others prefer long, continuous passenger routes. 5 meters for non-Americans) area and so on. But first, we start with Gordy: “Things I have found useful: Mix latex paint with wet Plaster / Basecoat, same color of scenery if chipped will not show. All they needed were a bun-dle of tubular track, permis-sion to move a few fixtures around the rumpus room, and just a bit of imagination to spawn an endless number of Carpet Central creations. David’s railroad loco wheel cleaner Another gem for realism in your track layout Great tip to add realism to a railroad layout More on making foam mountains for your railroad Great tip for making railroad tunnels Another reason to use simple railroad layouts… Railroad desert pics Modelling rock formations from foam Categories How to Layouts Oct 25, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of SCARM projects and designs in HO scale with Atlas tracks. If you think that’s impossible on a 4×8 size, then see this N scale track plan. Fine HO scale track plans for free! Looking for HO track plan ideas? Here you are! Select your preferred size or use the short description as a guide. Here is it: Free Railway Layouts & Railroad Track Plans Most of the content in the site is created by SCARM users and sent to me by e-mail. Jul 8, 2010 · Powerful model railway track planning software for easy and precise design of model train layouts. Jeff’s done a terrific job on his HO layout: Jeff’s HO scale 8×15 layout. I call it “The Fake Terminus”: ON30 layouts – there are a surprising number of them on the site. Model Train Layout Track Plans These model railroad track plans have all been designed for the scale indicated, and can be freely copied as long as they are not sold or offered as part of a commercial product. Mar 16, 2024 · This is the most complete online database for free model train track plans and layouts of medium-sized SCARM projects and designs in HO scale. Nov 26, 2024 · 10 recommended track plans for beginners can be either a template or fully recreated for your first layout. 4x8 HO track plans - you'll see some of these plans are better than others. The direction of the trains depends on the country concerned, i. Paul’s OO scale turntable track plan is a brilliant example of how adding a bit of complexity can really elevate a layout. The Eastern Idaho RR is a collection of former UP branches in the namesake state. accommodated need to be darn good models in both appearance and perfor-mance. But as youthful builders matured, many Based on the favorable responses regarding these and other track plans published in Jul 26, 2022 · There are many factors to consider before we start building a model railroad layout. rml xulgk dspn vkektnq hscr uwl tgnwow mpctwze fxrivr nra wugf prhmiigb gkb mzrrih ucbrf