Qustion about appropriate scenery

I have a 5(almost 6) x 8 layout HO scale and Im wondering how to divide up the views. I noticed that in other posts ppl were asking why MR doesnt show the entire layout in their mags…because its meant to be a series of small dioramas. So for a small layout like this how could I block the scenes up?

I was thinking about a mountain running down the middle of the layout lengthwise dividing the layout in 2 large sections. Is this a good idea? and how high could this be without looking odd?

The problem with a mountain as a divider is that a mountain is not only high but wide. It would take up a lot of
valuable space. Use a thin divider with printed or painted backdrops. Dave

Thanks for catching that topic, it was a good one but not super popular. Given the small size of your layout, I would suggest something more like a masonite backdrop, rather than a mountain, as it would leave you more room for structures such as industries.

Shape, size, and orientation are also things to consider. Perhaps a straight panel run diagonally or a “Y” shape for 3 scenes. 18" height would be reasonable, and you could still do a mountain in one scene. I’m having fun just thinking about the possibilities. Imagine if you were in N scale, but I’m not suggesting that you switch.[:D]

Hey Dave, you got me this time.[;)]

Yeah, by 4 minutes and 31 seconds to be exact. You’re slippin’. [8D] Dave

Do you have an picture of the track plan? This may help us help you in deciding how to divide the layout.

No I dont have a picture of it and am too embarrassed to take one because its just tacked down flextrack with turnouts on top of them…Im still trying to get a feel of what I like. Unfortunately though I saw several layouts with backdrops I just dont like them because I want ppl to view my layout as a whole and as seperate scenes as can be done with a mountain. I did find some examples of what I wanted but they were just hills. Thanks guys and I will deffinately post pics once I do some soldering.

don’t be embaresed about it; at least you have some track down, that’s more than I have at this point!

I love seeing construction photos and other peoples work in progress. Don’t be embarrassed by your work. Here are a few photos of my “work in progress”. http://members.cox.net/dbhuff/dsrr/

I dont care for artifical visual dividers, regardless of how well executed, they strike me as a failure of imagination. Much prefer using a water course or tree line to break up the visual flow into discreet parts.

Randy