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Post by runamuckchuck on Aug 1, 2024 22:33:37 GMT
My last layout was a 14X12 seasonal island. I was disappointed that the tiny details of my Lemax items could not be fully enjoyed unless they were on the perimeter on the layout. For those of you who use Dept. 56/Lemax buildings how do you approach this issue layout shape/staging to maximize these issues?
Thanks
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Post by Adam on Aug 1, 2024 22:40:46 GMT
I try not to crowd too many things in and sometimes I have raised the stuff in the middle a bit to make it more visible. But, my Christmas village is only 8x4, so the problem is not as pronounced for me.
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Post by Traindiesel! on Aug 2, 2024 0:33:43 GMT
We have 200+ Department 56, Lemax, Woodland Scenics, Menards and others. I don’t worry about the details being visible. I try to place them in logical (to me) positioning as part of the overall scenery.
The higher detailed buildings I try to keep them closer to the edge and lesser detailed ones behind them at my discretion. To me all the scenery is secondary to the trains operating.
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Post by curtis on Aug 2, 2024 11:19:28 GMT
"I try to place them in logical (to me) positioning as part of the overall scenery. "
Does this mean some are upside down?
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Post by david1 on Aug 2, 2024 15:24:27 GMT
My layout is totally dept56 and Lemax. I use smaller platforms on top of the main platform to give the look of different heights. If you have some of the taller buildings like the Chrysler building, Empire state, etc. use them to the back of the others.I also like the buildings close together to give a city look.
Basically its up to you, set them out see how they look. Don't like it change it.
Most of all have some fun, dont be afraid to change it after awhile.
Dave
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Post by steveoncattailcreek on Aug 2, 2024 15:42:19 GMT
Does this mean some are upside down? Yes!! Great idea: modeling the Upside Down from "Stranger Things" on the underside of your layout -- immediately *doubling* your potential display space! I like it . . .  
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Post by Adam on Aug 2, 2024 19:02:44 GMT
"I try to place them in logical (to me) positioning as part of the overall scenery. " Does this mean some are upside down? I got a good laugh out of this one! Very funny Curtis!
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Post by Charlie on Aug 2, 2024 19:35:12 GMT
I agree and work as Adam suggested earlier. When possible, "stadium design" is what I use. Progressive levels being elevated as you move in from the front or viewing position. Actually leaves the option to compress the scene (front to back) as you will not see the shortened distance between the first row and the next row. I know Brian was also a fan of using this technique.  Charlie |
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Post by trainman9 on Aug 4, 2024 16:32:49 GMT
My 5x10 layout is based on Lemax amusement rides and is still a work in progress. One thing is wish I could get are people that would compliment the Lemax ones but have not been able to find any.
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Post by runamuckchuck on Aug 4, 2024 17:13:03 GMT
The figures are a common problem size wise. My best luck has been finding NOS or used at train shows and hobby shops rather than current new items. Not any particular manufacturer, it is just a crap shoot as they say. It is hard enough for a general layout but especially hard for such a specific theme as an amusement park. I know I do a Lemax Halloween theme park with lots of rides.
We have the same challenge.
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Post by david1 on Aug 4, 2024 23:04:21 GMT
As far as figures go I use both dept56 and scale figures I have bought. Try to keep the scale separated from the larger size dept56 ones. The different scenes I have helps.
Especially the dept56 figures should be kept away from scale vehicles, the difference in size is very noticeable.
Even some o scale figures are too big for some buildings. Not all dept56 buildings are scaled the same. The tall buildings are scaled for N scale or there about. For instance the Chrysler building which is about 23" tall would have to about 8' to be O scale but if you place them in the back they look ok.
The best you can do is put everything together and see how it looks and keep moving them around till your satisfied.
Dave
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