How do I add lighting to the upper level, please help!

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

I’m thinking of how to add lighting to the upper level. I have two ways to go.

1 - Use the existing light in the ceiling

2 - Use light above the upper level

I think the best way is to add lighting above the upper (and lower) level because I’m searching for some kind of ‘shadowbox’ look. To see what I mean, look at this picture from Joe Fugate’s excellent layout.

http://siskiyou-railfan.net/e107_plugins/content/content.php?content.11.3

Here is another example from Jim Younkin’s N scale Mud Bay and Southern:


The problem is how to fasten the light above the upper level on the upright that holds the backdrop. Maybe I can screw it to the wall. I know that it’s not really allowed but hey, my plan is to stay in this layout room for many many years so… I think I need something that is very light, and that I can fasten to the wall with masonite at the front.

Please give me some ideas. How do you do it?

2

In my own opinion, I think that the shadow box lighting will have the best overall look when complete…

3

I would also agree that the shadow box lighting would work better. If you don’t want to install a light valance the other option is to use track lighting. Remenber the be careful about incandecent wattage. These bulbs generate a considerable amount of heat. Florescents w/ daylight or full spectrum bulbs behind a light vanance would be my choice. Joe Fugate’s numerous small wattage method on his shadow box gives some fantastics results too.

4

Do you mean lighting (as in lightbulbs), or lightning (as in thunder storms)?

5

Sorry for that, I spelled it wrong :slight_smile: