First Layout, need help with curves

[mrazz]

I'm working on my first HO layout. Can anyone walk me through on how to draw in my curves? I'm trying to build easements and curves wider than 24 degrees, and I'm using no. 6 turnouts. My table is 8' by 12' with a small operating pit in the middle. The reason for the wide curves, I have 85' passenger cars to run. I'm having trouble understanding the whole concept of easments, locating the center of the curve and the steps to drawing a center line for my curves using a yard stick as a boom. Any information will be helpful. Thank you.

 

[loathar]

http://www.trains.com/trccs/forums/1331395/ShowPost.aspx

[jxtrrx]

You might want to consider working with some track planning software.  I really like XtrkCad which is free.  You can fiddle with curves on the computer until its perfect, then print a 1:1 track plan, copy it to your benchwork, and you have perfect track.