The Prince William County Model Railroad Club assisted in building a layout at a local train hobby shop, the Rip Track in Woodbridge, Virginia.  Unfortunately, the Rip Track was forced to close and the layout was removed.  The photos and drawings provide an excellent step-by-step guide to building a medium sized layout.  Designed by Brion, club members are providing their talents and expertise to bring the plan to reality.  The Rip Track provided the materials for the layout construction.  Other than basic lumber, all train related materials are off-the-shelf products.  Construction started on September 5, 2002 and we achieved our goal of having trains running by Thanksgiving

Session Thirteen

Making things "Wet"

Click on any image to enlarge.


Drawing by Brion


This is the track plan as drawn by Brion.  The plan calls for a wide variety of scenery and construction methods.  Visitors were able to see many different aspects of model railroading.  The plan provides for the ability to convert the layout from HO scale to On3 by changing structures and rolling stock



The far right corner of the layout has a small pond with a scratch built trestle crossing the pond.  The trestle was built in place using hand-stained scale lumber.  Appropriate vegetation was added, including rushes and lily pads.

Photo by Jim Connal

Here's a close up of the lily pads.  Also notice the cross bracing on the trestle.

Photo by Jim Connal

 

We've added some additional vegetation, including a few trees trees in the background.


Photo by Jim Connal

Photo by Jim Connal


Here's a view looking left to right across the river that cuts through the middle of the layout.  The riverbed was painted and the 'water' poured in.  The first pour of water was not successful, so it was removed and re-poured.  When dry, some ripples will be added along with other scenic details.



Once again we visit our evolving bridge over the small stream.  Work has begun on the waterfall in the background and a small amount of water has been added to the streambed.


Photo by Jim Connal

Photo by Jim Connal


Having a "finished" look is important to every layout.  Here's a good view of the painted and dappled fascia board, the complementary skirting and the recently added trim.  A nice presentation makes every layout look better.

 


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Photos by Jim Connal

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