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N Scale 2'X4' Layout for $500 - 1
F
or this contest I
thought I would
design a beginner’s
project that everyone could
build. Of course, several things affect what type of model
A starter layout you can build for under $500
by Michael Brown
1: Author’s 2x4 foot layout. Benchwork and scenery
base are made from rigid EPS foam board laminated
together. You can do a lot of railroading in 2x4 feet with
N scale!
N scale 2’x4’ layout for $500
Second place winner of the MRH $500 starter
layout design challenge contest ...
railroad project you can build, such as: money, time, ability,
availability of tools, and, importantly, space. With this contest,
we know the first criterion; the other variables will vary widely
for everyone else.
With this beginner's project, everyone should be able to build
it. No power tools will be required. All the materials can be
transported in a small car. At a size of 2x4 feet, the layout is
portable and can sit on any existing table you have, such as a
kitchen table or coffee table. The layout will be made of entire-
ly of rigid EPS (expanded polystyrene) foam. Best of all, we will
also be able to meet that important $500 limit. The basic con-
cept for this model railroad is that it could also be expanded to
a larger N scale layout (door size) or a 4x8-foot HO layout if you
have the room.
I am sure this contest brings back memories of our first lay-
out for most of us. Like a lot of people, I received a HO layout
for Christmas when I was in grade school. We had a ping-pong
table in a back room, and that’s where I set up my train set,
which consisted of a simple oval.
I acquired more equipment and track, and within a few years
after reading Model Railroader magazine, I was ready for a per-
manent layout. I went for approval from my mom and dad for
a 4x8 layout, and found they were less than enthusiastic about
the idea. That seemed to be the end of my model railroading,
and my HO railroad was packed up and stored away. I am sure
this story is similar for some aspiring model railroaders.
Not long after that I came across N scale, and suddenly my
dreams of a model railroad seemed possible. A 4x8 railroad
could be done in 2x4 feet a very achievable goal. Soon I was on
my way. I built an open-grid wood frame and used some old
MRH-May 2013
