Your most valuable lessons learned

[jimhaleyscomet]

Never sell off all your conventional stuff. I did when I went on to TMCC and DCS. Now I regret that as I still like to run a small separate conventional layout.

Never sell off all your 027 track. You might want it in the future for a portable layout.

Jim H

[Dr. John]

1. Keep it simple. You can add more later.
2. Don't work on the layout/locos/rolling stock/buildings etc. when you are tired
3. Don't rush - you make more mistakes and get frustrated.
4. Take pictures of your progress along the way. I never have and now regret that.
5. When it comes to building benchwork - measure twice, cut once, and use a level!
6. Ditto on keeping track of your wiring.
7. Check clearances on your layout with the largest engine or passenger car you plan to run.
8. Have fun! It's only a hobby!
9. Learn to laugh at your mistakes and don't be afraid to tear down something and start over.

[FJ and G]

I know that in some form this topic has come up before but I thought if we can share our lessons learned, we can avoid mistakes that others have made.

Most of you perhaps have built more than one layout. Even someone with only one has lessons learned. Here are some of my thoughts.

1. Don't skimp on planning

2. Decide what your focus is. Do you have the money to buy anything you see or would you like to focus in on only PRR and only Lionel, like my buddy here in the Pentagon? Focus will actually increase your interest in collecting and operations and you can study the topic more in depth.

3. Keep everything on the layout within easy reach. Couplers are unreliable, backdrops need repainting, trees need replanting, trains tend to wander off the tracks etc etc

4. Keep future layout expansions and possibilities in mind. You may outgrow your current design.

5. Give plenty of access to the layout and make access easy

6. keep track of wiring

7. Don't just buy new stuff unless there is a need for it on the layout and it will enhance operations and your own enjoyment