This past weekend, I stood back and really looked at my current layout and got to thinking (once again, a very dangerous thing) about the Forum Guys and Gals.
I fully understand that our layouts and inventories are never complete but, that being said, I am wondering:
All things being considered, are you at the stage that you would consider your current layout a success? (That is, at a point that, if you were not able to make any major adjustments, you could just enjoy your accomplishments) As always, many thanks.
I would consider my layout a success because it has accomplished what I set as the goal of the layout, which was to have fun. The details,three operating lines, all American Flyer, in a small footprint, were achieved to my satisfaction as well.
On days when my schedule does not permit me to run my trains, just going into the trainroom for a moment, and looking around makes me feel good. It is a boost to self esteem, and can lift my spirits. Looking at a particular section detailed, can make me laugh again, reflect, or think about how would it look if I . . .
As a hobby and a toy, my layout and trains in my opinion is a success.
I have a right smart way to go before I could say my layout is a success as you defined it. Agree that the thing is never done. If mine were to ever get to the done stage I don’t know what I would do. My layout has been under construction for more than 1 1/2 yrs and involved a bunch of issues I never dealt with before like DCS and other electrical/electronic stuff. Those issues delayed my progress. But I am at the stage where I have never been before. My earlier layouts were restricted to a 4X8 sheet of plywood and were done only to the track and wiring - no landscaping/structures/trackside accessories. Just run around the board. Now I’m working on a 10X22 ‘O’ gauge main level layout with an elevated “dog bone” ‘S’ gauge one at the far end. Needless to say, I am challenged with this arrangement because I’m breaking new ground (for me). Also, I have a bunch of areas that are difficult to reach.
While I do get frustrated, I eventually get over it and move on.
I have looked at my layout many times and wondered,should I do a new one and the answer is no. I add or change things on the layout, there are two things I would do different(higher table, better wire system)But I like what I have and don’t see a major change as an improvement. Yes it is a success.
Overall I would consider the layout a big success, but with a compromise or two. I would consider the track plan a complete success for me.
I really wanted a modular table design that could be broken down into four 3’ x 6’ sections. This would have allowed the layout to be moved or stored as needed. I was not able to accomplish that goal for several reasons. So I had to modify my plans, and I am very pleased the results.
Scenery is an area that isn’t coming together quite how I would like, but it isn’t keeping me from enjoying the layout and it doesn’t keep the layout from having a finished look. I am trying to make a couple very small free standing mini-backdrops that can be placed in a couple locations throughout the layout. There is an image and feeling in thought that I just can’t seem to transfer to paper. I keep working on it, and will get it right at some point.
Jim-Bill-Doug-Sir James I-Birds AND those to come:
Really appreciate the time you all take to post replies.
Interesting comment about “modular” layout construction. When I was in HO (old habit of going back to my roots) I toyed with the idea of a movable modular system with 2’ x 4’ sections. I was never able to do it mainly because commercial units were too costly and my construction skills were lacking.
When I moved into this O27 world, I thought about it again but settled for the traditional benchwork.