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Post by ptc on Oct 17, 2019 13:59:36 GMT
A very easy way to make a considerable impact on a layout is to plan for elevation changes. Whether it be to elevate track(s) or scenery, the visual impact is huge.
Our previous layout, I elevated parallel tracks around a good part of the layout to accomodate the Newport Bridge. It turned out to be a super idea. For our new layout, the reason for the elevation changes was somewhat different. We were more limited for space and to urilize as many D56 CIC buildings, I created three levels using risers. Different use, but the impact is just a s great.
So, whenever possible, I recommend elevations as it is an easy way to add interest to your layouts.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 17, 2019 14:42:46 GMT
I started out having an elevated track on my first layout but never was able to get it where I liked it. So ended up with all three loops on one elevation. Always looked at and wished I would have figured out a way to make the elevated track work. My wife wanted me to put in a graduating elevation but I just don't have enough room to do it. On my current build the inner loop will be 2 inches higher than the outer loop. I was going to go 4 inches but it didn't look right to me. I will also have some sort of elevated system around the city.
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Post by ptc on Oct 17, 2019 15:11:57 GMT
"I started out having an elevated track on my first layout but never was able to get it where I liked it. So ended up with all three loops on one elevation. Always looked at and wished I would have figured out a way to make the elevated track work. My wife wanted me to put in a graduating elevation but I just don't have enough room to do it. On my current build the inner loop will be 2 inches higher than the outer loop. I was going to go 4 inches but it didn't look right to me. I will also have some sort of elevated system around the city"
Do you have a plan so that we can see what you have in mind?
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Post by josef on Oct 17, 2019 15:26:56 GMT
Interesting topic I'll be following
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Post by Country Joe on Oct 17, 2019 23:08:27 GMT
You make a very good point, Brian. A flat layout is best for train running but can be boring. Having the scenery change elevation adds a lot of interest and even disguises the fact that the track is all level.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 18, 2019 0:07:39 GMT
I could not agree more about elevations. My track began flat and then moved into elevations. It is not just the track itself, it can also be small slopes, big mountains, buildings or fronts which give the perception of elevation. These pics are an overview of my layout. Use the magnification and you can see the Bridgeboss track elevation in the back, The Banff mountains, several smaller slopes and tall buildings and flats.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 18, 2019 16:28:21 GMT
"I started out having an elevated track on my first layout but never was able to get it where I liked it. So ended up with all three loops on one elevation. Always looked at and wished I would have figured out a way to make the elevated track work. My wife wanted me to put in a graduating elevation but I just don't have enough room to do it. On my current build the inner loop will be 2 inches higher than the outer loop. I was going to go 4 inches but it didn't look right to me. I will also have some sort of elevated system around the city"
Do you have a plan so that we can see what you have in mind? No drawn up plan. I built the framework to fit the room and to allow me to work on all sides of the layout. I'm putting in the track as I go. I know most will disagree with this method. Maybe on my third layout I'll start with a drawn up plan. Lol I'll try to snap a pic of the partial loop and the layers of foam. I'd like to get y'alls feedback on the 2 inch vs 4 inch.
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Post by Country Joe on Oct 18, 2019 23:49:49 GMT
"I started out having an elevated track on my first layout but never was able to get it where I liked it. So ended up with all three loops on one elevation. Always looked at and wished I would have figured out a way to make the elevated track work. My wife wanted me to put in a graduating elevation but I just don't have enough room to do it. On my current build the inner loop will be 2 inches higher than the outer loop. I was going to go 4 inches but it didn't look right to me. I will also have some sort of elevated system around the city"
Do you have a plan so that we can see what you have in mind? No drawn up plan. I built the framework to fit the room and to allow me to work on all sides of the layout. I'm putting in the track as I go. I know most will disagree with this method. Maybe on my third layout I'll start with a drawn up plan. Lol I'll try to snap a pic of the partial loop and the layers of foam. I'd like to get y'alls feedback on the 2 inch vs 4 inch. RJ, I've built many layouts like that over the years, building benchwork that fits the space and then designing the layout with track on the table. I designed the trackplan for my current layout with a computer, built the benchwork and laid the track and ran trains. I found that I didn't like it so I made changes and ran trains. I made more changes and ran trains, made changes and ran trains, etc. Eventually I was happy with the track so even though I started with a plan I still ended up creating the final design with track and buildings on the layout. It's not the most efficient way to build a layout but it works.
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Post by stoshu on Oct 19, 2019 0:26:07 GMT
Painting the buildings on the background looks very nice... Is this freehand or stenciled ?
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Post by Deleted on Oct 27, 2019 14:26:18 GMT
Here's a picture showing my main lower loop already in place. The cars in the background show the 2 inch and 4 inch elevations. Still leaning toward the 2 inch.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 27, 2019 14:28:01 GMT
Not sure why but every picture I try to put in from my note 10 or tablet post up sideways?
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Post by laz57 on Oct 27, 2019 14:31:20 GMT
Good topic.
RJ, yes you have my favorite beer on top, OL Mil of course!!!!!!
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Post by rockymountaineer on Oct 27, 2019 15:02:28 GMT
Excellent thread to inspire different ideas. Another effective technique is to build scenery BELOW the benchwork -- even down to the floor where possible or appropriate. Great way to introduce dramatic vertical rock cliffs and river gorges.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 27, 2019 15:14:54 GMT
Great Thread. I totally agree with using elevations especially when having three or more mainlines. From mountains to small hills to track running through a city or small town. Tunnels, different types of bridges, old and new. So many scenery additions can be added too.
Gary.
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Post by Deleted on Oct 27, 2019 16:22:55 GMT
On my last layout attempt. My waterfall went to the floor and my mountain went to the ceiling. Also had a river gorge cut in. However the track was all one level.
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