Layout schematics
Basically there are two types of minimum space layout schemat-
ics:
Continuous
and
End-to-end
(that is, point-to-point).
Continuous
layouts allow you
to sit back and watch the trains
run around through your well-
made scenery. By adding pass-
ing sidings, spurs and branch
lines, as in this schematic, you
can provide excellent railroad-
like operations. For very small
layouts, the curves require quite sharp radii, so rolling stock needs
to consist of small locomotives and short cars that can navigate
such curves. Branch lines, narrow-gauge trains or trolleys (trams)
are especially good choices for this type of layout.
Note that John Allen’s original but quite small Gorre & Daphetid
layout followed this kind of schematic, as did Frary and Hayden’s
pioneering Elk River layout in HOn30.
LAYOUT SHAPES
Because minimum space layouts are usually small enough to
sit on a table or shelf, they generally have one of three shapes:
round, rectangular/square, or free-form.
