One of the most spectacular backdrops to any layout is a rocky gorge or another similar mountainous environment. The sight of a train making its way through a rocky landscape can be a real eye-catcher. The problem then becomes how can we create...

In simplest terms, gauge is the description of the perpendicular distance between the top of the rails, whereas scale is a direct ratio between the sizes of the original object and the modelled version. Most model railways will generally refer...

Ballasting points can be a fearsome prospect for some modellers as the consequences of getting it wrong can be a stuck point that might have to be removed. The means by which a modeller will choose to ballast their layout is a matter of individual...

Wiring is sometimes a subject of wide debate amongst modellers. Each layout is unique with a wide range of aspects each having an effect including size, complexity and the range of items to be electrified including lights, points and signals. This...

One of the most enjoyable elements of creating a layout is to scratch-build significant scene elements, whether that be buildings or other fixed structures such as bridges. Many manufacturers will create such elements in kit form and these can be...

The use of glue and putty is an inevitable part of modelmaking but they don't necessarily always behave as we would like and sometimes they can stray into unwanted places. Likewise, inevitably we sometimes use too much of these materials during...

Outbuildings come in a variety of roofing styles and many can be modelled quite easily and cheaply with materials that might be readily at hand. Many modellers scratch-build buildings for a layout or diorama, or wish to add a little more texture...

Periodically, it is good practice to clean the wheels of locomotives as they can pick up dirt, grease and other contaminants over time. These contaminants, if left unchecked can hinder the electrical connectivity between the track and the...

Stretched sprue is a modelling technique frequently used by modellers that can be utilised to create a number of additional parts and effects for models. On most injection moulded plastic kits the parts will be provided on a series of plastic...

Ballast Magic is a non-toxic powder-based adhesive specially formulated to allow ballast granules or coal to be secured onto a layout. As this is a powder-based adhesive it avoids the likelihood of points being glued in one position which...

Razor saws are frequently used by modellers for cutting a number of different materials including light woods such as balsa. Inevitably, with continued use, these blades can go dull, so it is important to look after them to aid longevity. One of...

One of the perennial problems of being a modeller is that our models or layouts sometimes become very efficient dust traps or adventure playgrounds for household spiders and other unseen denizens lurking in the shadows. There are many ways to deal...