Track Layouts

[RMax1]

Atlas has a couple books on track plans that even give you a shopping list of what to buy. Very handy just get a basket and load up what you need. That's what I did for my first layout. I found some of the Atlas basic plans interesting to start with.

RMax

[ClinchValleySD40]

Get one of the Kalmbach books on building a small project layout from start to finish. They'll walk you through everything you need to do step by step. A really great way to learn.

[tstage]

NeedzIdeaz,

You can also try Mike's Small Track Plan page:

http://www.naisp.net/users/mfischer/m_train2.htm

Lots of good ideas and plans. Now, the layouts are for N-scale but you can pretty much double the size to get your HO layout. Hope that helps...

Tom

[Anonymous]

Great post challenger 3802. I got a few more ideas, which means I have to make more track adjustments.

[challenger3802]

Here's a good place to go for one level train layouts, all sizes are catered for and a description of parts needed

http://www.thortrains.net/

Ian

[camarokid]

Go to your nearest hobby shop and look for books on building small layouts. These wonderful little books have everything you need to know about putting a layout together. Make sure it has plans for the tabletop and even the benchwork. The simplest is the 4'x8'. Read a few and discover the joy of modelrailroading for the rest of your life. It might not be to late to hint this is what you want for Christmas. Enjoy the ride.
Archie

[2021]

Everyone stars small and the most important thing is to start. Don't over analys because that halts progress. Read the books and you will soon discover the fun of scenicing and operating. Most of us start with a 4x8 layout, soon enlarge, and eventually go for that "big layout". Remember the most important thing is to enjoy what your doing. The one thing to watch for (speaking from experience) is not to buy a lot of different railways as you will soon find one you particularly enjoy (based on articles and your personal geographic location). Again have fun and welcome to model railroading.
Ron K.

[Anonymous]

im kind of a beginner and just need a small HO layout plan to get started with. The layout can be "generic" because i am not out to model any specific railroad. Im not afraid to try things i just dont need a monster layout.