Doctor Wayne posted this response in another thread:
doctorwayneThe only thing that springs to mind for me would be to have Pollyscale paints available again, and perhaps Champ decals, too....can't think of anything that I really need, though.
It never occured to me, but I can't think of anything I really need either.
I buy Kadee trucks & couplers, X-acto knife blades, paints, decal setting solution, and the ocassional brass or resin freight car, but that is about all.
I have very carefully purchased my entire layout before beginning construction. I have my entire fleet of locomotives (except for three brass nice-to-haves), and rolling stock. I have every track section, turnout, Tortoise, toggle switch, power pack, scenic supply, and structure I need to build the layout.
All I need is lumber from Home Depot.
So, how many people like me are there? Have you purchased everything you need and can't think of anything else on your "to-buy" list?
How did you decide what you would need?
I built a 1:1 mockup of my layout to figure out my purchases. That is how I have confidence that my purchases were correct and are complete.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
I thought this was going to be about how you are ignoring Amazon Days.
My layout grew over years. I usually built sections one at a time, rather than planning too far ahead. I found out early on that I often bought stuff I thought I wanted, but then kits ended up unbuilt on shelves because they didn't fit or really didn't belong.
For me, it's more fun to do things piecemeal, visualizing a small space and then deciding what to do with it.
It takes an iron man to play with a toy iron horse.
MisterBeasley I usually built sections one at a time, rather than planning too far ahead.
All my previous layout were purchased as I went along.
I decided to do this one differently. It is going to be my second largest layout, and I wanted to avoid the disaster I experienced with the Dream-House layout.
I also want to use all old-style Walthers/Shinohara turnouts. These are getting very hard to find and expensive, so I did not want to over-buy. I was afraid they would become unobtainable in the quanitity I needed, so I bought them all pre-need.
From there, I just wanted everything on hand before I began construction so I can move forward at full speed, and not need to budget for future purchases. My retirement is on tight finances, and I do not want to go back to work.
Well, my needs are pretty much without limits, at least with respect to rolling stock. There is a bunch of Canadian locos I would like to have (most are on Rapido's steam lists). And Hon3 locos: I only have one that is functional. One unbuilt kit is waiting, but I would not mind having Blackstone 2-8-2 on my roster...
Then there are decoders - many of my locos are still waiting for their decoders. And some decoders can be upgraded to sound or with keep-alives. My layout is still in construction, so there will be some base materials I will need to purchase (all of my buildings are built, or waiting to be built).
I'm sure there are other things I can think of.
Simon
I can always use another couple of packages of over/undershank Kadee's in case....you know....whatever....
I have built quite a few trees, nothing like the real veterans and keeners, but a few. Have had it with that, so I'm going to place another order for the Busch trees from W/S before long. Figure another 120 might do.
Other than that, I have lots of 'bushes', grasses of all types, flocking for more fall trees, and lots of sage brush armatures collected 13 years ago. Sure don't 'need' any more rolling stock or locomotives, or structure kits.
Over all, I'm set up pretty well and should probably start actually USING some of my materials....for a change. Haven't worked on any train related since end-June.
I'm pretty much at the same point that you are. I have everything I need for my layout except for the lumber. The one thing that is holding me back is clearing out the room I want to use for my layout. Even though I have everything I need, I often find something I want when I go on Ebay.
I tried to get all my ducks in a row before I built my layout, but...
I have most of the small stuff, but there are some pricey things that are looming.
Truth is, I never expected to have another layout and if I did, it was because one of the kids moved out. But with them only having entry jobs, that may be a while. I never thought my wife would give me half a garage space and forgo one of the stapes of her art.
But that created a derth of rolling stock. I have about half of what I need. About the only company that made 1890's stuff was MDC Roundhouse old-time, and you used to be able to pick them up for $3-5 per on eBay. Now they're $25. I'm willing to trade for them, but there is no good venue for that to happen.
I'm also short 2 engines, but if things go according to plan, I'm going to scratch-bash what I need.
Luckily, if you want to call it that, I got a lump sum from my dad when he passed. ($600 is what my wife said could go to the layout.) That got me lumber and track. My next box of track will be the end of that.
So, no I don't have everything I need.
Chip
Building the Rock Ridge Railroad with the slowest construction crew west of the Pecos.
SeeYou190 Doctor Wayne posted this response in another thread: doctorwayne The only thing that springs to mind for me would be to have Pollyscale paints available again, and perhaps Champ decals, too....can't think of anything that I really need, though. It never occured to me, but I can't think of anything I really need either. I buy Kadee trucks & couplers, X-acto knife blades, paints, decal setting solution, and the ocassional brass or resin freight car, but that is about all. I have very carefully purchased my entire layout before beginning construction. I have my entire fleet of locomotives (except for three brass nice-to-haves), and rolling stock. I have every track section, turnout, Tortoise, toggle switch, power pack, scenic supply, and structure I need to build the layout. All I need is lumber from Home Depot. So, how many people like me are there? Have you purchased everything you need and can't think of anything else on your "to-buy" list? How did you decide what you would need? I built a 1:1 mockup of my layout to figure out my purchases. That is how I have confidence that my purchases were correct and are complete. -Kevin
doctorwayne The only thing that springs to mind for me would be to have Pollyscale paints available again, and perhaps Champ decals, too....can't think of anything that I really need, though.
I too have a careful plan and have purchased most of what I need and want. With any luck, construction starts soon.
Sheldon
This is an interesting topic.
I started my first layout 2½ years ago with nothing. First came the wood, then cork, then tracks, etc.
Now, I am already thinking about layout number 2, although it will not be anytime soon. I am seriously thinking of changing scales for the next time, which means I will begin again with nothing.
My dilemma is should I start buying things in the new scale? What if I decide not to change? What if I start the new scale and don't like it?
I'm nuts.
By the way, I spelled 'dilemma' as 'dilemna' for years. I think that's how I learned to spell it in elementary school. Now I find out that 'dilemma' is the correct way, and that 'dilemna' is not even listed as an alternative. I'm even more nuts.
York1 John
I have all of the structures and details squirrelled away for the day I will build a layout. I have some code 70 rail, ties, and a few switch kits as I am planning on handlaying track. I have enough engines and rolling stock to stock three or four layouts.
York1Now, I am already thinking about layout number 2, although it will not be anytime soon. I am seriously thinking of changing scales for the next time, which means I will begin again with nothing. My dilemma is should I start buying things in the new scale? What if I decide not to change? What if I start the new scale and don't like it?
There was a time when I thought it would be a good idea to model NS in my area in PA and do it in N-scale so I could model things like Horseshoe Curve, which as about 20 miles from my house, and Altoona Yard and the rolling stock factories in Johnstown both 30 miles away.
Anyway, stuff happened and I never built it. Now I'm stuck with a bunch of stuff. I was able to sell the engines and the rolling stock on eBay, but I have some track, roadbed, structures, just stuff I don't know what to do with.
If you make a plan and secure the space, I'd say start looking for the new scale inventory the day after you bring the lumber home.
SpaceMouse York1 Now, I am already thinking about layout number 2, although it will not be anytime soon. I am seriously thinking of changing scales for the next time, which means I will begin again with nothing. My dilemma is should I start buying things in the new scale? What if I decide not to change? What if I start the new scale and don't like it? There was a time when I thought it would be a good idea to model NS in my area in PA and do it in N-scale so I could model things like Horseshoe Curve, which as about 20 miles from my house, and Altoona Yard and the rolling stock factories in Johnstown both 30 miles away. Anyway, stuff happened and I never built it. Now I'm stuck with a bunch of stuff. I was able to sell the engines and the rolling stock on eBay, but I have some track, roadbed, structures, just stuff I don't know what to do with. If you make a plan and secure the space, I'd say start looking for the new scale inventory the day after you bring the lumber home.
York1 Now, I am already thinking about layout number 2, although it will not be anytime soon. I am seriously thinking of changing scales for the next time, which means I will begin again with nothing. My dilemma is should I start buying things in the new scale? What if I decide not to change? What if I start the new scale and don't like it?
On thing I have noticed in 53 years, including more than a decade behind the counter of a hobby shop, is this - some people model the same scale, era, railroad, locale, etc, etc, nearly their whole lives.
Others experiment or jump around with each new layout, or each new personal situation they find themselves in.
Me, I'm the first type, and I have been working on the same master plan for about 30 of those 53 years once I nailed it down.
So I'm not too worried about getting stuck with stuff I don't need or want.
Started two layouts on this plan, had to take them down. Third one will be the charm.
I need #79 drill bits and lots of them.
Russell
SheldonMe, I'm the first type, and I have been working on the same master plan for about 30 of those 53 years once I nailed it down.
What? And I'm not?
SpaceMouse Sheldon Me, I'm the first type, and I have been working on the same master plan for about 30 of those 53 years once I nailed it down. What? And I'm not?
Sheldon Me, I'm the first type, and I have been working on the same master plan for about 30 of those 53 years once I nailed it down.
It seems you may well be. I was thinking more about York1 and a move to a different scale after what seems to be a short time.
Every time I ever considered for a minute a different scale, that's about all the longer the idea lasted, a minute.
Now, with a master plan that fills 1500 sq ft, and a roster of 140 locos and 1200 pieces of rolling stock, it would take longer to sell off this stuff than it will to get the benchwork built and the 400' mainline installed.
There is no turning back......
We are forever in a 1/87 version of September 1954 somewhere in the Mid Atlantic Piedmont of the Appalachian Mountains, where the B&O, C&O, Western Maryland and the fictional ATLANTIC CENTRAL come together in a small city that is a major division point for the ACR.
ATLANTIC CENTRALI was thinking more about York1 and a move to a different scale after what seems to be a short time.
I think my questioning involves the size. I'm in my late 60s, I have grown to love scratchbuilding, and I'm wondering if I would enjoy working on things on a larger scale than my chosen N Scale. I originally chose N because of the small area I have for the layout. Now I wonder.
However, it will probably go no further than just wondering. I can't see me at this stage selling some of my favorites and not using some of my scratchbuilt items just to make it a little easier on my fingers and eyes with a larger scale.
When I'm in my late 80s, maybe?
SeeYou190So, how many people like me are there? Have you purchased everything you need and can't think of anything else on your "to-buy" list? How did you decide what you would need?
Hi Kevin,
I have most of the stuff on hand or on order to complete my layout. I still need to buy some scenery supplies.
In order to decide what I needed, I did a very detailed layout plan using 3rd PlanIt which showed all of the benchwork components, track, turnouts, Tortoises and structures that were required. Most of the structures in the town scene will be built from kits but I also have the supplies on hand to scratchbuild several buildings for the locomotive service area and I used 3rd PlanIt to design those as well.
I had to guess at some things like the amount of wire required but I'm not worried if I am a bit short of some colours or gauges since wire is readily available.
I am still spending money on eBay. Mostly I'm looking for vintage Canadian Pacific boxcars, although other things occasionally tempt me too like the P1K CP RDC that I just scored. I needed it like a hole in the head. I already had three.
There will be some major expenditures in the future. I need several Loksound decoders and I'm seriously thinking of upgrading my NCE Power Cab to a five amp wireless system.
Dave
I'm just a dude with a bad back having a lot of fun with model trains, and finally building a layout!
York1 ATLANTIC CENTRAL I was thinking more about York1 and a move to a different scale after what seems to be a short time. I think my questioning involves the size. I'm in my late 60s, I have grown to love scratchbuilding, and I'm wondering if I would enjoy working on things on a larger scale than my chosen N Scale. I originally chose N because of the small area I have for the layout. Now I wonder. However, it will probably go no further than just wondering. I can't see me at this stage selling some of my favorites and not using some of my scratchbuilt items just to make it a little easier on my fingers and eyes with a larger scale. When I'm in my late 80s, maybe?
ATLANTIC CENTRAL I was thinking more about York1 and a move to a different scale after what seems to be a short time.
Well your a better man than me. I'm in my early 60's, been at this since my teen years, have scratch built and kit bashed all sorts of stuff in HO, but would never even consider N scale as a RTR hobby, even when I was younger. And my eyesight is still pretty good.......
I once considered two rail O scale, but decided it would never satisfy my desire for big action.
I litterally grew up with HO, and here I am 53 years later.
Most of my buys are wants these days. Bought most of my stuff on the cheap over time and had so much stuff before I built the currant layout that I used all new turnouts rather than salvaged ones. I really want to buy stuff and since I am better off than ever (amazing how much money you save when you can't go shopping all the time or eat out), just nothing I need. May eventually spend $500 or sp on DCC stuff but my e-bay sales will more than cover what I spend.
rrebellmy e-bay sales will more than cover what I spend.
Hi rrebell,
I have been reluctant to start selling my surplus stuff on eBay. I'm not quite sure why. However, you have given me a bit of a nudge. I'm going to look into it a bit more.
Thanks,
Can't think of anything I really need either
I'm actually a fairly decent modeler I think of it and then I get it done
I could use some of those pre-made rivet gusset plates Four Bridges here tonight
Perhaps I seen this thread somewhere here lately?
TF
Track fiddlerI could use some of those pre-made rivet gusset plates Four Bridges here tonight
Tichy?
https://www.tichytraingroup.com/Shop/tabid/91/c/o_nbw-rivets/p/2053/Default.aspx
I have a bunch from Central Valley, too. They sell girders but I'm not sure if they sell the gusset plates separately.
As far as needing anything I'm pretty well set for this lifetime. There's always that locomotive or car I'd like to get my hands on and I'd sure like to see Walthers finally reissue their huge Milwaukee Road Everett Street Station. It was supposed to be here in May of '20 but then set back to August and now it is TBA.
Hey, I just saw a release date of Nov. 28th! You see Toto, Wishes really DO come true.
Cheers, Ed
csxnsI need #79 drill bits and lots of them.
I bought 1,000 #78 drill bits a few years ago. That was a great decision. Before, it seemed like I was always needing them.
ATLANTIC CENTRALEvery time I ever considered for a minute a different scale, that's about all the longer the idea lasted, a minute.
I have had large scale and live steam tugging at me for years. If I had to start over, I am sure I would build an indoor ISL in G scale.
Deciding what I need varies. I can always use more freight cars to grow the fleet a bit. While the layout's 'not done,' definately closer to a public view. It does have the scenery done and probably needs some touch ups.
I'm not really rushing things since I have a demanding work/family schedule.
York1I have grown to love scratchbuilding, and I'm wondering if I would enjoy working on things on a larger scale than my chosen N Scale. I originally chose N because of the small area I have for the layout. Now I wonder.
When I switched to HO scale from N, my first HO scale layout was actually smaller than any of my previous N scale layouts. I scratchbuilt almost everything, and enjoyed it for years.
Sheldon SpaceMouse Sheldon Me, I'm the first type, and I have been working on the same master plan for about 30 of those 53 years once I nailed it down. It seems you may well be.
SpaceMouse Sheldon Me, I'm the first type, and I have been working on the same master plan for about 30 of those 53 years once I nailed it down. It seems you may well be.
It seems you may well be.
Nah, my attention span is like a Kadee knuckle spring.
hon30critter rrebell my e-bay sales will more than cover what I spend. Hi rrebell, I have been reluctant to start selling my surplus stuff on eBay. I'm not quite sure why. However, you have given me a bit of a nudge. I'm going to look into it a bit more. Thanks, Dave
rrebell my e-bay sales will more than cover what I spend.
SeeYou190 York1 I have grown to love scratchbuilding, and I'm wondering if I would enjoy working on things on a larger scale than my chosen N Scale. I originally chose N because of the small area I have for the layout. Now I wonder. When I switched to HO scale from N, my first HO scale layout was actually smaller than any of my previous N scale layouts. I scratchbuilt almost everything, and enjoyed it for years. -Kevin
York1 I have grown to love scratchbuilding, and I'm wondering if I would enjoy working on things on a larger scale than my chosen N Scale. I originally chose N because of the small area I have for the layout. Now I wonder.
I started with HO and found it too small. I tried O and found it too big for the layout I wanted. So I changed to S about 25 years ago. For me it's the best compromise between big enough to work on and small enough for the layout I want.
As for needing more. I pretty much have all I need. As a I build the layout I'll probably need things like wire, glue, scenery supplies. There a few things not made in S scale I would like have, but even so I have more than enough for the layout.
Paul
I'm 74 now and am building a new ho layout. I have never stocked up on anything. I have always bought what I needed at the time I needed it. Now that I'm living in a smaller place that attitude has served me well.
When I have built layouts in the past, when they were dismantled everything went, buildings, track, trains, anything I could sell. I did that because I knew I would build a new layout with a different theme and era, and besides I hate To store clutter.
What I may have done in the past and today is not for everybody but its what made me happy.
rrebellJust say as is no returns on everthing. Then you need to decide what strategy to use, low start and gamble for a big win (works for a major vendor) or buy it now for a pre determanded price or start price of anywhere you feel comfratable. Never do a resurve because there are so many why will not play that game and you get alot more inquires that are asking things like what your reserve is and then ask if you will take less. Also make sure of your costs and bake them into your price.
Thanks for the pointers. I should start saving packing material and small boxes but I have very little space to keep them. As far as costs go, I'm not too worried about that. Selling the stuff would be more an exercise in de-cluttering. Any funds generated would be a bonus. One of the challenges with shipping from Canada is that the postal rates are pretty high so I have to price things attractively enough that the shipping cost doesn't scare buyers away.