Edit post

Edit your reply below.

Post Body
Enter your post below.
I think the best layout planning acknowledges this, and creates viewing locations where the trains negotiate their curves in the most dramatic ways. I like to find layout plans that don't simply have the layout's front edge running along parallel to the sinuous mainline, because this implies a viewing angle that is always alongside the track. Not that someone can't bend over or find other ways to look at the line, but with careful layout planning you can build in the best vistas and encourage alternate "camera locations". One thing I've always wanted to design into a layout is a view that looks down the length of a long, mostly straight main line, so that you can watch a train coming towards you for a rather long time (or disappearing away, down the line). John Armstrong referred to "Cosmetic Curves" which have been broadly understood to be broad-radius curves worked into a layout where otherwise straight track might have fit, but I think a correct understanding of his term lies in the definition of Cosmetic. It is cosmetic because it presents the trains in a graceful and dramatic way, capturing all the thrill of watching the train snake its way through.
Tags (Optional)
Tags are keywords that get attached to your post. They are used to categorize your submission and make it easier to search for. To add tags to your post type a tag into the box below and click the "Add Tag" button.
Add Tag

Update Reply

Login, or register today to interact in our online community, comment on articles, receive our newsletter, manage your account online and more!

Model Railroader Newsletter See all

Sign up for our FREE e-newsletter and get model railroad news in your inbox!