Layouts and layout building

Thanks to everyone for all the input so far. I'm sure I'll have a million questions in the future. I'm still a little unclear about drawing in curves and easements for my layout. I'm working on a 12' by 8' layout and need to draw in curves with easments more than 24 degrees wide. When talking about drawing tangent, easements and curves, what is the "offset", and whats the pupose? Also, any helpful information in using a yard stick to draw the curves will be helpful.

Thanks, Mark

A great book to buy is "Track Planning For Realistic Operation" by John Armstrong.  It is a must read and will answer the line of questioning you are after! 

In terms of drawing curves, I purchase the equivalant in Bachmann EZ track and use it as a template.  They offer 18, 22, 28 and 33 1/3 (I think).  I use their 28, but am going to pick up a pack of their 33 1/3 as I am modeling longer equipment now.

David B