Calling all model railroad beginners...
We've all seen those amazing layouts – Like Dave's, Mark's and Arnie's. They look like the real thing. But believe it or not, here's how, you can plan and build a breathtaking layout, step by step, no matter how little space you have, or what your budget is. And it all starts with the layout plan – that's the difference between a layout that never derails and runs like clockwork, smooth as silk without the stop-starts that blight most beginners. What's more, I'm about to share a unique resource that I've built up over years of blogging on railroads. You'll know in days what the pros took years to learn. Frankly, it shows you, step by step, how to plan and build a layout that your friends and family just won't believe you've created. It doesn't matter if you've never modelled before, or you've just rediscovered your trains in the attic and blown the dust off. You'll be amazed at what you can create with this resource.
Dear Model Railroad Beginner, Of course, I'm biased, but the downloadable information I'm about to share with you is unmissable for beginners and seasoned modellers. Why do I say that? Because over the years I've collected hints and tips from thousands of model train enthusiasts – and together they make the most comprehensive model train resource you can ever imagine. They make up a quick and easy step by step action plan that has you creating masterpieces in days.  A layout that fills you with pride, one that you're bursting to show your nearest and dearest? Well I can tell you, even if you've never picked up a piece of track before, you can do it. What's more, I can prove it too - you've only got to see the pictures of some first time modellers on my blog: take a look at John's and you'll see exactly what I mean. If you feel daunted by the thought of having a go - don't be! It's all about breaking it down: planning the layout to fit your space, the bench, putting the track down, what scenery to go where and why...  And then of course, there's all the electrics to sort out - and that's the last thing you want to get wrong after putting all your scenery down! Seems like there's a lot to get to grips with, doesn't there? It's not your fault if you're thinking that - every beginner has been there. The reality is, with the right planning and a solid step by step approach, anyone can create an absolutely stunning layout. And there's nothing more satisfying too.  Once you know what to do - and why - they'll be no stopping you. And it's hard to express the satisfaction you'll get from the hours and hours of running your locomotives. What's more, the look on your grandkids faces when they see your layout will be priceless. And believe me...  What makes it special is how it came together. Years and years of tips and tricks from the blog give it enormous value – but I have to say, when the folk in my Hall of Fame started endorsing it, even I was amazed. It made me very proud of the book – and I know it'll give you the most direct and quickest route to a layout that makes you proud too. And that's a great feeling. It's funny, but it's one of those hobbies that you never stop learning about. Nobody knows everything – so there's quite a learning curve. But this book softens the blow. What's more, mistakes are expensive too – not to mention the time they burn. So save yourself a small fortune and hours of heartache – give the book a go.  Well, you're one click away from taking the first step. In fact, it's the only thing stopping you. So please don't sit there mulling it over any longer. Scratching your head over where to start won't get you anywhere. The truth is, you can't bumble or dither in to making a stunning layout. You can, however, spend a fortune, waste countless hours and still have nothing to show for it. And believe me, when that happens, it's soul destroying (ask me how I know). Or you could bury yourself in books. But that's not cheap either – and they all have one particular slant – how does the saying go again? "To a man with a hammer, everything looks like a nail". And again, that's what makes this book. There's a collective wisdom about it. Of course, you could just camp down online and get everthing you need. But you'll soon grow tired of that. It's like keeping the contents of your kitchen all over the house, in every room. In the end, it'll drive you crazy. There's no order. No, “What to do next and why”. You get the picture. In fact, even on my blog, as helpful as it is, you'd waste hours looking for the stuff you're after and soon get side tracked. And that's another reason why I put this book together. Everything you need, in an easy to follow, step by step, process to build a breath taking model railroad is laid out for you.  
“Model Railroads for beginners” is a one stop book that holds all the secrets to your breaktaking railroad.This downloadable book has been years in the making and grabs the process of planning and building your layout by the scruff of the neck:
So what's stopping you? You really are just one click away from starting a journey that'll give you years and years of joy. 
What's more, it's continually being developed, tweaked and improved. But best of all, the updates are free, for life.  I have good news for you. No, great news. First of all, other online resources tie you in to membership – you don't get any option. That's not the case here: it's a one off, one time payment. And that payment, how much is it? Just $27. Yep, that's right, you get everything I've listed for just $27. But the good news doesn't stop there though. You also get exclusive access to 'gated' content on my blog. That means, nobody else can see it – it's just for you. And it covers all these hot topics: Free bonus #1  47 Money saving model railroad tips you never would have thought of!As much as I love this hobby, it's one downfall is how much it can cost. But these tips, tricks and gems save you money, time and time again. And they just go to show – never throw anything away!  Free bonus #2Weathering step by step for stunning results. The difference between a great layout and a stunning layout is often the weathering. It just casts a light of realism over your whole layout. And it's incredible how subtle it can be too. Just a few simple weathering tricks transform an 'out of the box' engine in to a hard working, battle worn, loco that keeps the railroad going. But best of all, it's incredibly fun. In fact, it's my favorite part of the whole process. I could spend all day doing it. Free bonus #3  Scratch built bridges made easyDaydream over a model railroad – and there are always a few features that make the wish list... Mountains, tunnels, lakes... and of course, a bridge. This gated content takes you step by step, girder by girder, how to scratch build your own bridge. Why scratch build one? Well, it's enormously fun. And making the bridge to fit your layout (and not the other way round) is very satisfying. And strangely enough, the eye is always drawn to them – so they have to be spot on. Here's how to get them just right. Free bonus #4  Water features step by stepThere's only one thing that's just as fun as bridge building – making your own lake or water feature. But it's also the most tricky. Get it wrong and you'll feel like pulling your hair out. There's a real art to it. But this gated content makes is to easy and simple. In fact, it even shows you to get waterfalls just right, so the only thing that is going to limit you is your imagination. Free bonus #5  Stunning tunnelsThe last in most folk's wishlist for their layout is a tunnel. In this free bonus you'll see more tricks than you can shake a stick out. Like what to do when your train derails in the middle of it! And of course, how to get those tunnel entrances looking beautifully weathered. As you'll find out in model railroading, there are lots of different ways of doing the same thing - and this is especially true with tunnels. We cover them all! Free bonus #6 Free updates for life! It doesn't matter when you bought, you'll always have access to the very latest version (and I'm editing and adding to, all the time). Now, I'm not going to embarrass myself and tell you all these free bonuses usually sell for a crazy price and you're saving gazillions - because any fool can see the value in them. They make it a complete, one stop package, that just gets better and better with time. I'll continue to add stuff while it's still getting outstanding comments like Dave's and Mark's. What's more, no matter how much stuff gets added, it'll still be a one time payment of just $27. It's a great price, and all because the book and gated content is delivered online - there are no fulfilment or print costs (I shudder to think how much it would cost to print and ship everything that is included). You'll get the book in a downloadable PDF format, which can be read on any computer (PDF stands for Portable Document Format for all the geeks out there). What's more, even on a dead slow internet connection it only takes a few minutes to download. And of course, it means you can get it any time of the day or night - even in the small hours of the morning.
 So this is where the rubber meets the road – for just $27 you can be doing, instead of dreaming. And it's a really small sum when you consider how much it'll save you in the long run, and how proud you'll feel when friends and family comment on the stunning layout born from your new hobby. What's more, just so there's no risk whatsoever on your part, it comes with a cast iron, no quibble, money back guarantee. If you don't think it's worth every penny, let me know and I'll refund you in full, no questions asked. Of course, I'm biased, but I think you'll be utterly delighted. Just click on the 'add to cart' button below and take that first step.
The second your payment is approved, you will be pushed to a download page where you can save Model Railroads for Beginners to your PC. Or you can just bookmark that page and always have access to it with your details. In addition to the Model Railroads for Beginners, you'll also get your 6 bonus links. Of course, I'm biased, but it really will feel like Christmas. Simply put, you are minutes away from mastering one of the most enjoyable hobbies on the planet. There is just no way to describe the feeling of pride and joy when other people eye your layout with envy. Don't sit on the fence. The risk is all mine. Take that first step – and together you'll create a whole new world. You're one click away from doing - instead of dreaming. Take the plunge right now and I'll see you on the other side.  And of course, the risk is all mine. I guess I've said all I can. Best Al PS Just so we're clear, you get everything above for a ONE time payment of $27. And it comes with a 60 day, no quibble, money back guarantee. PPS Happy modelling!  
 Quay House, Quay Road, Newton Abbot, Devon, UK, TQ12 2BU | Email ClickBank is the retailer of this product. CLICKBANK® is a registered trademark of Click Sales, Inc., a Delaware corporation located at 917 S. Lusk Street, Suite 200, Boise Idaho, 83706, USA and used by permission. ClickBank's role as retailer does not constitute an endorsement, approval or review of this product or any claim, statement or opinion used in promotion of this product. |
All pictures and quotes taken from subscribers: "Wow! Finally a book on model railroad construction that is not hampered by a single minded author/enthusiast! With multiple contributors and written in an easy to understand and absorb manner it's perfect for the beginner. It's also an interesting and enlightening read for an experienced modeler. I have personally been in the hobby for 60 years and I thoroughly enjoyed (and learned from) the insights and talents of my fellow modelers in this book. This will be a "must have" for my library! - Mark Loos, Hall of Fame member."  "This eBook guide helps to concretise and organize the essential thinking that is needed for a prospective modeler to want to roll up his sleeves and 'take the leap of faith' to start a layout. Even the experienced modeler can find useful information in this ebook. My journey toward building my layout was often by trial-and-error. I've learned that a successful layout outcome requires time and patience; that the three essential components are: 1. Imagine/Dream - envision what you want to create; 2. Plan - take the time to patiently research your ideas and make drawings of the track plan..; and then, 3. Build It. This ebook has been carefully thought out and addresses these key points. And it does all this via examples and how-tos. It's worth having a copy as a handy reference along your modeling journey. Good Luck, Arnie - Hall of Fame member."  "I started out and maybe a few tips via magazines, but made so many mistakes that it would have been cheaper to go by the book... as the saying goes...so having this handy to read, stage by stage, would have helped me a lot and saved me money in the long run. A must for all beginner’s and even established modellers. - Dangerous Dave, Hall of Fame member."  “This is a great book for those of all ages embarking on the wonderful hobby of model railways. Al has drawn on a vast network of fellow modellers to compile a book that is full of sensible tips and sage advise taking you through all stages of developing a model railway. Al’s personable writing style and inspirational anecdotes will set you off in the right direction and ensure you enjoy the many joys of the hobby along the way. - Cameron Davies, Hall of Fame member."  "Al, I have been an avid reader of your blog for more than 4 years now and have thoroughly enjoyed your due diligence in maintaining a quality reading source. Several of the posts have given me ideas to apply on my own model railroad. Thank you for keeping everyone well informed, and please thank your loyal readers for submitting such thought-provoking projects. Cheers! -Dick"  "Gday Al we don't have anything like your blog that I have been able to find here in Australia, so simply seeing the work of like minded people is a big bonus for me, especially as I live in the country. The thing I like most about your blog is the willingness of people from all over the place to share their railway making journey. Some are really stand out works of art, especially Dangerous Dave whose layout has been a constant source of inspiration. I have just begun designing an N gauge layout for my two young sons who love trains, having been Thomas The Tank Engine fans for all their short lives. Hopefully I will be sending in some of my pics and videos as the layout progresses. So thanks you for setting up your blog and please keep them coming. Mike"  "Hi Al, I am one of your readers who mainly likes to read and view your posts. I enjoy it very much. I started a model train project on February using many tips from your site. I have also liked and have bought many of your son’s templates for buildings and houses. Thanks for your hard work, Lou"  "Hi Alastair: As right from the beginning I really like the blog for several reasons which I won't remember all of them until I hit send 'cause well I turned 74 yesterday. There has been a great variety of ideas, tips, layouts, pictures from people all over the world sharing their excitement and passion for this hobby. Modeler's first attempts, to seasoned modelers ideas, tips, layouts. Lots of inspiring stuff. Your blog doesn't show signs of getting tired.  I am very happy with your efforts and for all of the people who have taken their time and effort to share their passion. Dick"  "Hi Al, I look forward to receiving your emails because there is always something you can learn from what other people are doing and if it wasn't for your links we would most likely be able to communicate with other like minded people. I am also of vintage age and I am running vintage 3 rail trains (is that old or what?) but unlike most of your readers I am just starting out in the hobby and have a lot to learn. Because I live in Australia, a lot of the scenery I see in your links is European and is not relative to my part of the world however, having said that, I guess the methods of construction are the same regardless of where in the world you are situated. Keep up the good work because if it wasn't for people such as yourself a lot of people, including me, could loose interest in the hobby and simply walk away from it. Ian"  "Hi Al, I enjoy reading the stories and looking at the info people send in. I have built 3 layouts in the past (we have moved a bit in the last 6 years) and I am now gathering info for a fourth. You learn more each time you re-start, so looking at your 'stuff' is absolutely FANTASTIC!!...and then along comes Dave....BRILLIANT! THANK YOU FOR THE ENJOYABLE INFO Steve"  "Alastair, Just wanted you to know how much I appreciate your blog. Every time I come across a help full hint, I save it to a folder for future reference. I also enjoy the videos and pictures as they give me ideas on a possible build in my garage. So here's hoping you continue the good work. I've learned a lot so far and am looking forward to learning so much more. Craig"  "I am a beginner at this as I am doing this for my great nephew and grandson. I have absolutely no knowledge of anything I am doing except for trail and error. I have received some great ideas and suggestions your site is invaluable. Thanks for it all. Clyde"  "Hi Alastair, thank you for your blog. I and my seven year old son enjoy seeing the great creations and gather ideas for things we can do with our railroad set. Still just one landscape section, but planning our next addition. Thanks again for the inspiration and education. John"  "Hello Al, My late father introduced me to the lifestyle of model railroads when I was old enough to crawl. Nearly 50 years later and my 5 year old daughter has been assessed as having problems with her fine motor skills. The answer was obvious – get her to help build a model railway layout. This is where your invaluable site comes in. I work fulltime in an office environment and my modelling skill set is sorely lacking. The inspiration and commonsense ideas you provide are beyond price. Keep up the great work. Goodness knows I need all the help you can give. Gavin"  "Mr. Al, Your site has helped me so much, for 40 years I have bought and bought HO trains, buildings, landscape things etc.. I have not had the time nor the space to do anything with them. Well guess what I now have the space and some of the time. I am using a room in the basement 10 x 12 in a U shaped layout and have enjoyed so much your emails and the write-ups of your following as to how to just about anything. I admit I am not way near a Dave but for a rookie I think I have good ideas and am counting on you to show me the way. Can’t do it without you. At some point I will be sending some photos but not just yet. Keep it up Al, St Louis Bob"  "You are only as old as you allow yourself to feel, Al. The clock says I'm 75 (bt I know it's off by about 40). Starting a very complex layout, and were it not for the inspiration I have received from those who you spotlight, I doubt that I would have attempted a 12 x 12 setup that I thought about during a long and satisfying US Army career. Walt"  "Thank you Thank you Thank you. Al I live in a small country half way between Sydney and Brisbane there is only a few here train interested. My second effort [ 5'x 15'] would not of been,a lot of it starts with you and all those others who contribute you have all contributed. I got my engineering trade, 6 years 3 months with the N S W Government Railways, STEAM it's a part of me.You have been my oasis. Ron."  "i enjoy your blog al as i find it very entertaining as well as educational in building model layouts . i am in the beginning stages of both a n scale and z scale layouts which will be quite detailed and look forward to sharing my pictures and progress with you and your followers . the z scale will be a south-eastern united states model and the n scale i am looking to do the long island railroad theme which is the largest commuter railroad in the united states . as i get started , i will send pictures of the progress . thank you for your blog , look forward to more tips and tricks. Jerry"  "Hi Al. My name is Paul Hennessey from Bradenton Florida. You not only provide a lot of entertainment but, also a lot of information that I have used to construct my lay-out. I have used the ideas that some posts provide and have used them with some great results. I inherited my lay-out from my Father and I’m passing it on to my grandkids. When I regain the ability to do photo macros, I intend to send you some shots to thank you and all the contributors for all you have done and still do. Each mailing shows me something new. Keep up the good work...thanx for all you do. Paul"  "The only liability I have identified to date is this: after visiting your web site with all its information and inspiration that it provides I feel like a blind dog in a meat shop. Truly I thank you for doing what you do Al. Ken, USA"  "Your blog has been nothing less than the best! I have learned so many tricks and cost saving short cuts to setting up my 5 track O Gauge layout through the years. I look forward to seeing your member's layouts and save many of them. I am glad you asked for our responses because I believe you have touched the hearts and lives of many of us "Big Kids" who find peace in the time we spend with our trains. I know I do. I am 63. May God bless you! Grant"  "Hi Alastair I have been a loyal fan for a number of years and have attempted to add several tips as they occurred to me. Although most of your submissions are from HO people you have certainly given me many ideas. I have been slow to submit photos of my work but there are sections that I am sure some of your N gauge fans might appreciate. I like the sugestions that your forward where an individual has made something quite lifelike out of odds and ends and items that one would never suspect would have a use on a model railroad. Mine is a club sized layout and I have several friends that help out once a week. It may not be finished in my life time but it is the journey that is fun. Please continue your blog it helps keep me going. One of your fans Fred"  "Al, I look forward to seeing a new post from you because the tips, ideas, and especially the accomplishments of fellow molders is always an inspiration and sort of satisfies my lack of space for my own layout. I enjoy building models, scratch-building buildings and the like, but I do not have space enough to actually build a permanent layout complete with scenery, railroad operations, and the ability to run multiple trains as I wish I could. Seeing what others are doing keeps my interest and sort of jacks me up to keep me doing what model railroading I can.  I do setup a couple of HO trains, plus an N scale and a Lionel train around the base of my "Train-Theme" decorated Christmas tree every year and it usually goes up in November and stays around until the middle of January. My Grandkids love it, as do I. I know it is a lot of work, but keep up the great work, it is appreciated by model railroaders of all levels and stages... like me! Thank you, Roger"  "Al Your site is a wealth of information about our train hobby. Please keep up the great work. You are truly an inspiration to our hobby. Thanks much Vince"  "Al, I do not know how I came across your site but I am so glad I did. I am an "amateur" n scale modeler but I love it. I do get inspired by your posts, the pictures, the ideas, and the videos. I have got some great ideas and I look forward to your emails. I was even lucky enough for you to post pictures of my Worcester Union Station. I have to admit, I was proud I made it on your site. So, keep up the great work and thanks for all you do. Ray"  "Hi Al. My name is Keith I'm a Brit living in Ontario I wait impatiently for your emails. Although I've been modelling since childhood and thought that I knew everything ,well what do you know someone comes up with a new idea ,and it blows me away the amount of good knowledge that is found on your web site. You have modellers from all over the world looking at your site and also giving good advice and tips. You are doing a wonderful job so please keep up with the good work. If it hadn't been for your site I wouldn't have taken the Yorkshire moors tour. I watched dangerous Dave's video when he went and although I am British I had never been to Yorkshire. Shame on me I know. So thank you Al and all the other modellers with their hints tips and videos. Keith"  "hi Al i am from London Canada and getting back into the hobby. the tips are fantastic and most are things i would not have thought of. keep the good work coming. this is the best of any blogs i have been with. with gratitude. Doug"  "Hi Al This is my first Email to you. I have built a few layouts in my time and now I am looking at building a lay out that i hope will out do the Germans covering a total area of at least 40 yes that is right forty acres so as they say I have my work cutout for me and all the models will be built by myself and a few friends it will include an airfield / navy base and a Army base with names like ( area 69 fire groom lake ) all has to be built but the good thing is that I now no longer have to work but I want to work on this project with you help and the help of others that have sent their projects so others can see them so the first thanks goes to you and the great team of scale modelers around the world thank you for your input it has help me figure many things out way a head of time which I am grateful for and a special thanks to you for getting this site up and running.BR> Your Friend Bruce"  "Al, I am 60 but feel like a kid again when my grandsons and I work on our layout. We have changed it many times from looking at your posts other links. Thanks Carl"  " Al, Your blog is the best and I enjoy so much the pictures and tips from around the world. It is so nice to make contact with others who love trains as much as I. This year makes 55years! Some of my trains were given to me by my parents. Thanks for all you do........... Ed, USA"  "Al, I save all your posts and sort in different catalogs to reference. I marvel at everyone’s models and set-ups.. I watch over and over again the video’s and get “transported” back in time to the sights/sounds of yester years.. Sometimes the video’s made me feel like I am living right there in the moment!!! So realistic! Thank-You so much for providing such an outstanding service. I do not blog, belong to or contribute to any other site or internet tool.. so Please feel how much I really do appreciate and love receiving your blogs.. Sincere Thank-You! Dave A"  "Alastair: I’m a 63 year old toy train guy and I enjoy your posts and the layouts depicted, particularly the step by step construction progress shots. The late John Allen is credited with saying” planning a model railroad is a hobby itself”, and I believe it. I particularly like photos where the trackplan can be ascertained, as guys like me are on a lifelong quest for the perfect trackplan, that has lots of sidings to demonstrate operating accessories, and at least 2 loops for concurrent continious running. One of the most important messages your site sends is that “I am building it and even though I’ve not done it before much, it looks pretty darn good”. I often forward your piece to scale model railroaders that I know who are “just breaking ground” on their layouts. John"  "Good Day Al from Canada, Thx for your note and pls consider this a big THANK YOU from someone who is getting back into HO/HOn3 after a 10 year hiatus. I look forward to your notes each day and no matter what the subject I usually find some things both "to do" and just as important "not to do". All these things are helpful and in some cases they have really helped me focus on what is really important for my layout (construction to start shortly after basement renos completed). So please do keep your notes coming -- you are providing a great service to the hobby which is so important now that the local hobby shop and train show has virtually disappeared from the landscape. Finally -- a special note to "Dave". Fastest modeller on 2 feet I have ever seen. Just great to see those fine looking British models rolling -- even for a US prototype modeller like myself. So thanks again Al Best to you, Douglas in Toronto"  "Thank you Al, the tips and ideas found are always interesting and in some cases have given me some new ideas. Seldom is there only one way things can be done and your website allows me to see how others approach the hobby and situations that crop up. Keep up the GREAT work and all the best to all in our hobby from Chuck in Tallahassee, Florida!"  "Hi Al Many thanks for your hints tips photos and videos which have inspired and helped me to return to a hobby I gave up when I took off to sea in the 1950s. Nothing as grand as your subscribers, but it gives me something to pass the time away. I just enjoy reading your blog. I tell the wife I’m building it for the grandkids but I don't think she believes me!!!! Thanks again. Ian"   |
"My personal, 60 day, 100% satisfaction and money back guarantee.