"How many layouts have you built and what did you learn from them?"

[trnj]

Not counting the layouts I had as a child, (post U.S. Army) I have built eleven! I have learned much the hard way! (1) lay the track carefully and make certain it is smooth and without kinks and that it has no electrical "dead spots." Be careful when ballasting the track! Do not try to fill every inch of space with track and if you like switching layouts (my favorite), resist the temptation to have too many complicated switchback sidings. Also, allow ample length for passing sidings and "drill track" leads. Take your time doing the scenery! My latest layout is one of my smallest ("trackage rights" in the laundry room!) but by far the best looking and most interesting to operate.

[Anonymous]

Well I am really only on my 3rd layout in 20 years. I started off with the classic 4x8 with a leg off to a small 3x5 remote area. I tore it down when we moved from that house to a new one. The second layout I built modular 2x4 domino sections in the mid 90's, then girls, school and work too over. Much of the parts from the 2nd layout (frame, and some track) have gone into the 3rd layout that I started 4 years ago when I bought my own house. Its still less then half done (I have increased the size several times)

What I have learned: Its never done, plan for the future but know that reality will dictate the layout. I build with a plan, but never build to the plan.

Josh in NH

[pcarrell]

#1 most important thing I learned,.....it's never done!

[douginut]

Many,
starting with a 4x6 hunk of pegboard at 12years old.
usually had space and time when I didnt have any money, or lots of money for trains and no space or time. Learning that Murphy's law had not been as yet repealed.
in 1984 joined a local Ntrack club and made in all 11 modules over a space of years.
learned that if I like it it is right, regardless of the aesthetic sensabilities of friends.
current project is seeing what I can do with 12 hollow core doors from 28 to 36 inches wide. In N scale . Now I only need a place to do it. Trolley and interurban modelling are my favorite.
Doug, in Utah

[n2mopac]

I think I responded earlier on this thread about what I learned from my previous (first) layout. Now building my second layout my learning curve is quite steep--installing DCC for the first time, building better bridge piers, abutments, and retaining walls, building a sectional layout that can be moved (only ) if necessary, and using sweatshirt material and contact cement to makeN scale tall wild grass just to name a few.

Ron

[Virginian]

I am about to start a fifth. Haven't finished one yet. Most important lesson - always look around for the smartest laziest guy you can find. He has already discovered the easiest way. Also important;
Decide the biggest radius you need then add 2". 4" is even better.
Long straights aren't that long.
Build the double crossover first, then match the rest of the track to that. 1/64" error is quite visible in HO scale.
Figure out what your time is worth. If it is worth 10 cents an hour, throw out used cork and a lot of used track.
Relax. This too shall pass.

[Anonymous]

On my 5th layout now in 40 years, (have I learned anything?) [;)]
Yes,
#1 Nothing is ever permanent, except stains in the carpet.
#2 There is always someone whe can do it better, or at least thinks he can.
#3 It's MY layout ! If I wanna doublehead Thomas the tank engine with a B&O Pacific , I will!! (I've done it too!![:p])
#4 There are more ways to do scenery than you can remember. Seek out new techniques, don't let yourself go stagnant.
#5 If your better half tells you " You spend too much time in the basement" you probably are. Consider spending time with her or the kids as a way of "buying" modeling time. Better yet, get her (kids) involved with the hobby. My biggest helper and most trusted critic wears a skirt!
#6 There is never enough time to do it right, but always time to do it over!
#7 Never be afraid to ask a question. Doors fly open when a question is a key.
#8 Don't forget your mantra,,,Model railroading is fun!!! (repeat this 10 times next time you misplace a critical part)

I'm sure there's more!!![:D]
I'm sure there's more, if I think harder.

[Walter Clot]

I have had three. The things I learned were:
1. Plan.
2. Take your time in construction.
3. Use good material.
4. Build modules, so you can save your good stuff when you have to move.
5. Enjoy every phase.
6. Learn all you can from books and others.
7. Find friends who enjoy the hobby.

[Anonymous]

I started a 4x8 in high school, but never quite finished it. I started on my second one last fall (now that I'm out of college) in my basement. So far, I'd say my biggest lesson is to take your time on the track, especially joining flextrack in a curve. I've got a couple kinks that are driving me crazy.