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I posted this on WTB but it was suggested I post it here. Hope it does not violate any of the rules.

Im looking to get some help rebuilding my layout and scenery and detailing. It will be “L” shaped with the main section 4x10 connected to a with 3x14 yard by a Lionel 213 Lift Bridge. I’m in the King of Prussia PA area. If anyone is interested my contact information is in my profile.

Thanks for looking.

 

 

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I am capable of doing the bench work, installing track, wireing etc. Although now I need help taking down the current layout and constructing the new one using most of the existing bench work.

Im pretty good at wiring and installing track and switches. What I lack is the ability to make the layout look good from scenery and detailing. I’m familiar with the various suppliers I just need help from those individuals who have the experience. 

i just want it to look good, I don’t expect to get into OGR.

I ‘d also like to get another opinion about my plans from a hands on basis.

Others will have different opinions, but my suggestion is to use a 3/4" or 1" foam board from Lowes or HD on top of the plywood as a base for the layout. You can glue it to the plywood with construction adhesive. I then mark on the foam where I want my roads to go and cover them with duct tape. I then paint the entire foam base an earth brown latex color and, while the paint is still wet, I sprinkle green and yellow scenery ground turf until I get the desired mix I'm looking for. After it dries, I remove the tape and paint the roads either silver cement color or black and add road stripes with a white paint pen. That gives me the base I am looking for.

At that point, I start adding buildings and structures, signs, people, telephone poles, etc. and figuring out where to put tunnels , mountains, trees, foliage, etc.

Depending on the size of your layout, you should probably pre-plan as to where you want different areas to go such as industries, towns, sidings, farms, etc.

There are lots of threads on here in the layout forum that should also give you some ideas and inspiration.

 

I plan to use most of the existing bench work which is homosote over 1/2 inch plywood. The existing yard which is 2x6 will be expanded to as much as 3x14 or maybe 4x14  and will be connected to the main section via the Lionel 213 Lift Bridge. I also want to set up my Lionel Gantry crane which is self propelled to load and unload hoppers.

I have three amusement rides that I’d like to incorporate into the layout if possible.

As I said, I’m capable of installing track and switches, wiring and programming them. I looking for someone skilled in making the layout look mor realistic. 

 

Never a bad idea to reach out to people, lot of experience on here, but I have some suggestions, too. You tube has a lot of model railroading videos, both how to and showing finished layouts that may help. The folks that produce this website have books and offerings on how to do scenery, there are other commercial providers with books and websites out there on how to do scenery, both 3 rail specific and general model railroading, and of course there are the publications like OGRR, Model Railroader and the like for inspiration.  

WAYNEPA  I'm just down the road from you near Exton PA but as I'm a newbie so not sure I can be of any help.  Have yet to find an O gauge club but haven't pushed hard.  If you need help taking your existing layout down I'd be happy to lend a hand.  I have a design for a 10'x14' layout with tables under construction and lots of inventory purchased (will start post war conventional).  It's for running and having fun with kids 5 and 8.  Just don't have time for significant scenery at this point but want the base infrastructure correct for when I do.

Email is in my profile.

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