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Post by trainluv on Aug 15, 2021 19:35:26 GMT
We are having fun with the table set up and construction site. He mentioned "we need some building roads cars and people Pop Pop"
He also noticed all the new cars and engines and liking the Chicago Northwestern Passenger Set. And I find out his dad use to ride that line visiting family north of Chicago.
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Post by Deleted on Aug 15, 2021 20:37:55 GMT
It looks like he will keep you busy!
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Post by Adam on Aug 15, 2021 20:41:39 GMT
Very cute!
He is right BTW! There is always a need to add more!
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Post by Country Joe on Aug 16, 2021 4:29:33 GMT
That is a great photo of him enjoying the trains. 🙂
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Post by cnw1995 on Aug 16, 2021 17:02:39 GMT
I have used foam board a bit differently - and yes, it is the same stuff you can get in 4 x 8 and other size sections at Menards or Lowes. My layout is built on a rock filled raised crawlspace that was covered for radon mitigation. I covered the top with foam board, then put thin indoor outdoor carpet on top of that.
When I put together a little 3 by 5 ft. layout for my Hornby clockwork trains, I did the same thing - I wanted the little table to be light weight but I wanted a different look for the top - and the indoor outdoor carpet - in thin tile squares - worked perfectly for what I had in mind.
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Post by curtis on Aug 17, 2021 22:27:39 GMT
I used 1 1/2" foam board on top of 1/2 plywood which has a 1x3 frame under it. I then put 1x4 around the edge, raising the 1x4 so it is 1/2 to 3/4 above foam board and screw it to the 1x3. I originally did NOT glue the foam down but in the later stages I did because it will float and you can press it down in spots. How do I know this? Because part of my Layout is 8 X 30. My wife and I have both been on top at the same time with no problems but I did notice that the original 2 - 4x8 sections of foam floated in spots. Someone once ask me if the foam dents due to knees. YES. But show me anyone's yard that is PERFECTLY FLAT! I painted (water base paint) black. Then Brown (not worrying about total coverage) and then green (again not worrying about total coverage). Most grass has either some brown showing or has shadows of black. I really did not need to do that but it provides a cover over the blue foam till I glue down my grass, stones, driveways and roads. All being materials I spread on after applying glue and sprinkling each on. Then all gets either sprayed with Matte spray or wet water (water with dish detergent (or 91% Alcohol)) then 50/50 Elmer's Glue and water. Roads are Medium or fine Ballast rolled flat. Pin Stripping is added and glued down on top.
Best thing about the foam is tree installation. Wife does all scenery work and constantly moves trees. Easy in and easy out. As for holding Atlas track, I used Carpet tape till I finally get it ballasted. Works great and if you need to change it is easy. When I drill a hole for wiring if we move the wires I simply plug hole with paper towel and sprinkle grass or whatever on top. Never see the hole. And I have moved switches plenty of times in the first stages. Kind how I ended up with a layout that is 30x 40 (I think, it could be larger but never measured. One side is definitely 12x30 and the other is around the walls. Some places are 8' deep to wall and others only 3' deep to wall). Someday I will have to measure it. I do know the room is around either 625 or 675 square feet according to the carpenter who built the house. I am older now and honestly can not remember. Shame since I designed the house. Of course that room was NOT suppose to be. It was a bonus from the carpenter (who was and still is my best friend since grade school).
Curtis
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Post by trainluv on Aug 19, 2021 1:03:09 GMT
I appreciate everyone's comments and will use these ideas on fine tuning my layout.
I pulled out several studio 54 style ceramic buildings (maybe Hallmark)we use at Christmas, a Light house, candy store and art studio. 2 buildings don't have lights but holes to drop them in. I will look for some battery operated miniature candles etc.
I made a temporary tunnel out of a blueberry box. Have the two cutout flaps pulled up on top and grandson liked the idea of closing and opening tunnel. Now to create a pulley system.
Once I figure everything out, I will elevate my foam off the table with 1x1 spacers or something similar, to make wiring easier and keep from drilling through 3/4in wood. I like the idea of the foam being easily manipulated and fixed and plan on some grass and roads. Suggestions for where to buy trees etc at reasonable price quality would be great.
I enjoy photography and considering a panoramic on the wall that could set off the layout. Also thinking about taking photo of grandson house our house etc and put them on a foam board cutout.
Y'all are giving great suggestions ideas. Thanks
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Post by curtis on Aug 19, 2021 12:31:56 GMT
Making trees is best when you use natural products in your own yard. I had a dealer demonstrate how to use "Never Die" plants after they bloom and dry them and make trees. I started looking at other layouts and found that this method was used a lot by others. Same plant and everything. Sure cheaper than buying hundreds of trees. I will have to get the correct name for the plant but around here everyone calls it never die as it can take a beating and still live.
Curtis
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