One of the most challenging elements of an urban layout, and one that’s important to get right, is the pavement. You’re dealing with a lot of subtle color patterns and feathered edges. The street behind the track is probably the most difficult model to build on the extension module. The sidewalks curve to the side […]
Backdating the LAJ layout to the early 1960s has entailed educating myself as to the types of rolling stock that were on the rails during that era. It’s been a slow but fun process. First up was the need for an era-suitable reefer for Federal Cold Storage. I chose Rapido’s Santa Fe RR-56 mechanical reefer […]
Conceptual sketch, with thoughts and notes, on where I’m thinking of taking the LAJ 1960s version. For a number of reasons, I plan to focus my upcoming efforts on the LAJ layout. I like the feel of the room, its openness, the mid-century modern interior design, and the way the sun floods the space in […]
Vehicles are noticeable enough that their overall composition against the canvas of our layout warrants some thought. For your era and location: What’s the best mix of tractor-trailers, panel trucks, and passenger vehicles? Within the vehicle realm, what selection makes the most sense in terms of make and model (Domestic? Import? Luxury? Non-luxury?) Where should […]
The crew keeps a watchful eye out for traffic as it works Longview Fiber. My post on the 1960s era version of the LAJ layout garnered more interest and questions than usual. That being the case, I thought it would be helpful to circle back and have a quick review and pull some of the […]