First Layout-3'x5' UPDATE 4/2/13

Looks like an interesting track plan, you are making the most of your space.  I'm glad you posted this - it goes to show there aren't any excuses for not building a layout!  I look forward to seeing your progress.  Good work on the "fitter" pieces of track.

We all have to start somewhere; my first adult layout was on a 3' x 6 1/2' door blank. Keep going and post your progress.

That looks great!  two loops and three sidings in a small space. 

Thanks guys for the comments. I will keep posting on the progress. And don't be afraid to give critiques. Plus I'm also adding balsa strips, I'm currently cutting. To simulate the rail ties.

Nice job with the space that you are using.  I like the plan.  I may try your plan for next years Christmas layout.  Keep posting updates.  Nick 

Grat concept. Enjoy the progress as you go and best of luck. 

some of you folks are so creative with smaller layouts. It's a real joy to watch their construction. I get lots of ideas and inspiration from these layouts. Thanks for sharing!

Jim

 You're off to a great start, what with your design, your progress, and also your cost!  Have fun.

 

Could you use one more curved section at the top right corner in your first photo to extend the spur a bit more?  If you need one, email me and I'll send one, no charge.

Cool layout, Bluesheepbrian. I enjoy seeing creative, small layout designs like yours more than the "biggie-size" layouts! Free is good.

Bill

BSB,

   Very nice layout, great space usage, no doubt about it.

PCRR/Dave

Looks good, but I am concerned about how close you are to the back wall and ends. If you run any longer stuff you may end up hitting the walls.

Is the location shown the place it will stay? If so I would not expect problems.

Also be sure not to overspeed and fly off the rails / table, but that can happen on any layout.

Nice function in a small layout space.

 

PS, yes another curve at top rt stub should allow another car there.

TrainRMe and Russell: I might be able to put of a curve. I got plenty of track so I'll play with the idea.

 

Russell: That is the permanent spot for the layout. I am planning on putting masonite backdrop on the back side and one of the sides. To prevent the trains falling off. It this first pic, the dark void at the top are steps going down to outside. So I definitely putting somthing there.

Currently on cutting balsam wood to make cutome ties for the tubular track. Yes I know it's a long process, but I think it will add more realism to the layout.

Also purchased Midwest corkboard, which I will be adding to layout soon.

 

And I figured out the wiring for the layout. Going to have three blocks, for I can run two trains.

Ties are a great idea....I'd thin them a bit....to match the tops of the metal ties.

It does look like it needs some trimming. Probably sand them down a bit.

This is one great track plan. I have a limited budget, and limited space, and had really almost given up on having a neat permanent right of way.

You have proven it is possible to have an interesting looking layout, which also presents operational possibilities. I really like how everything is in reach (an important consideration for me).

Thank you.

Well done!

 

Peter

prewar: go to this website, he has a lot of small track plans. www.thortrains.net

Thank you for pointing me in the direction of this invaluable resource.

I'm now looking into the possibility of having two layout, one above the other. One for O gauge electric, and the other for O gauge clockwork.

Might start a thread to discuss this.

Did some more layout work this past weekend. Added Midwest corkroad to the layout. The work went pretty smooth, especially with my little helper. Next comes the wiring.

 

My little helper. :-)

Brian;

Good for you.

The little helpers make it all the more fun.

Nice progress :-)

I am enjoying seeing this layout evolve.

I love it. 

 

This is what really makes it special.  Way to go.