Model Railroader

The world’s most popular model railroading magazine publishes the information you need to build your own railroad. Get Model Railroader digital magazine subscription today for step-by-step how-to projects; great model train layouts; and realistic track plans. You'll also get reviews of the latest locomotives, rolling stock, and accessories in HO, N, O, and other scales, expert tips, and more!

IMPROVE YOUR LAYOUT TODAY!

Model Railroader's Favorite Projects

INSTALLING A LAYOUT SKIRT on straight and curved fascia • A simple, inexpensive method helps complete a flowing layout edge

BUILD BENCHWORK for a sectional layout • A way to prepare for disassembly or a household move

BUILD A LIFT-UP SECTION that safely locks in place • A simple mechanism holds a lift span high enough to walk under

How to make OLDER TURNOUTS DCC-FRIENDLY • Reduce the potential for short circuits by following these easy techniques

TIPS FOR IMPROVING TURNOUTS • With a little attention, commercial turnouts can be ready for their closeups

Tips for consisting DCC locomotives

Consist methods pros and cons

How to PAINT AND WEATHER TRACK in 5 steps (and how to lay it) • Spray painting, brush painting, and a wash enhance commercial track

Build mountain scenery • A diorama makes a great setting to display models and hone scenery techniques

How to layer backdrops for depth

Build a COAL TRUCK DUMP • This compact trackside industry provides a spot for loading hoppers

EASY WALL SIGNS with image transfer • Acrylic medium turns computer printouts into convincing painted-on signs

7 helpful hints to better bridges • These tips will help you adapt commercial materials to the situations on your layout

How to scratchbuild a BEAM BRIDGE • Wooden ties and plastic girders combine to make an eye-catching span

How to model A DESERT • Make a realistic HO scale diorama using old and new techniques

How to model Joshua trees • Use wire to model an interesting plant unique to America’s Mojave Desert

A NEW LOOK for a ‘blue-box’ car • Breathing new life into an older Athearn boxcar

Three ways to WEATHER ROLLING STOCK • Add realism to cement hoppers with theatrical powders, pigment ink, or acrylic craft paints

Weathering ROOFTOPS • How to make the tops of locomotives and freight cars look like the real thing

How to weather with acrylics

Using locomotive bell and whistle signals

Whistle signals

How to model a flatcar full of tractors • Even the load can become a part of the operating session

A 30-MINUTE TRACTOR KITBASH

ENHANCE THE DECK of a ready-to-run flatcar • Sand, file, paint, and weather your car to show years of use