Benchwork Kits (Revisited)

[Mike_Martino]

As a senior citizen with neither the time, resources or motivation to construct his own benchwork, I wanted to revisit this topic. Aside from the two major players in the market (Sievers and Maine), I noticed two other participants, Benchridge and Woodland Scenics. Has anyone used either of the latter 2 manufacturers for a toy train layout? I know Woodland Scenics is known for their scenery, bit would its benchwork be sturdy enough. Benchridge is new to me, but can anyone vouch for them? Any and all replies will be graciously welcomed.

[rtraincollector]

You know Mike I sometimes wonder if a local carpenter or his qualified helper could not do it as cost effective or less than some of these comapanies as 1 of two things would happpen with them, 1 you still have to assemble it basically it's cut to legnth, or if they did build it completely for you, you would either be paying a high shipping or there time to come and build it for you at your place. This is if your just talking bench work as you said. 

[Flintlock76]

I don't know how big you want to go Mike, but a "quick n' dirty" solution would be to visit a thrift or second-hand store (if you have any in your area) and get a used ping-pong table.  They usually measure 5 x 9 and that's a good, versatile size for a starter layout.  You can check out used dining room tables as well for that matter.

I built my own layout table, it wasn't hard at all (I do have basic carpentry skills) and didn't cost a lot either.  It's the old traditional 4 x 8, that's all I have room for.  Some 2 x 4's and some particle board shelving and I was ready to go.

[Penny Trains]

Unless I've missed something completely, the Woodland Scenics kits do NOT include benchwork.  They're styrofoam track risers, landforms, profile boards and plaster cloth only.  You need a table to put them on at the very least plus all the scenery, track and buildings on top of the kit price.