Lights for model train layout

If you’ve ever wondered about whether adding lights for model train layout is worth it, have a look at what Rob’s done:

“Hi Al,

After putting considerable effort into adding lighting effects to my layout over the last year or so, I thought it might be time to demonstrate how it all came out.

I even replaced a house on the layout with one I scratch-built so that I could add lighting.

The original house model was a resin casting but did not include openings for the windows as many of them do. Without windows, I could not have added lighting to the interior.

My farm area has always been my favorite area on my layout, so I decided to put in the effort to build a semi-duplicate for the original house, except it would have windows.

Running trains in the dark has always held a certain magic. With this in mind, I have produced a video of trains running with their windows lighted. I also let the camera dwell on some of the little scenes around the layout.

You’ll notice I have added traffic lights to the one intersection I have on the layout. Maybe that car trying to turn left will finally be able to get around the corner. 😉

The video:



(Click here to watch on youtube)

Here are some pictures of the new house in the build process.

oo scale house scratch build

 lights for model train layout

oo house scratch build

 lights for model train layout



oo scale house scratch build

 lights for model train layout

oo scale house scratch build

oo scale scratch built house

 lights for model train

lights for model train layout

A big thanks to Rob for sharing his take on lights for model train layout.

There are many more posts on the blog about LEDs, it’s a popular topic.

Here’s some more if that’s what you’re after right now:

model railroad LED layout lighting

LED lights for model railways (another one of Rob’s).

LED lights for model trains

LED lighting (another of Rob’s).

How to connect led strip lights to power supply

Model train LEDs

And when it comes to LED lights, there’s always one of Fred’s posts I think of – here’s a pic from it:

N scale harbor airport night

(You can see Fred’s post here.)

That’s all for today folks.

Please do keep ’em coming.

And if today is the day you get started on your layout, the Beginner’s Guide is here.

Best

Al

PS Latest ebay cheat sheet is here.

PPS More HO scale train layouts here if that’s your thing.




Have a look at the Silly Discount bundle too.

4 Responses to Lights for model train layout

  1. Michael Bornes says:

    Nice, I would like to know what size s your layout?

  2. Rob McCrain says:

    Michael, my train room is about 21 feet by 21 feet. It is irregular in two opposing corners. My workbench is in one corner and the other loses 18 square feet due to the wall jogging into the room.
    Rob

  3. Jim AZ says:

    Nicely done Rob. Great lighting effects and sound. Especially liked the sunrise at the 6:45 mark. I know you gave a lot of credits but I’m not sure about the camera you used. Thanks for sharing.

    Jim AZ

  4. robert dale tiemann says:

    nice layout good work.

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