The size of my layout in the planning stages has been growing and growing.
I started with a 2 x 8 shelf layout (with unscenicked return loops), then it grew to 2 x 16ft shelf layout. The trouble is, it started obstructing other things in the garage (my drums, for example - that’s bad news!).
So then I was thinking 2 sections of 2 x 8, in sort of a C-shape. But then there goes the workbench.
So, I’m thinking I’ll be back to 2 x 8, with un unscenicked oval that runs across the workbench for continuous running.
I’m thinking the tradeoff of layout space for decent working space will be worth the tradeoff.
In the long run, if I’m dying for another 2 x 8 section, I could have the workbench surface be pretty low, and have the layout be pretty high.
It’s a bummer to reduce layout size once you’re going down a certain path, but I bet it’s the right thing to do…
The nice thing about modular railroading is you don’t need a lot of space to work on your modules, only to set them up. Check out Free-mo.org for information and spec’s. It sounds like you have a good start. Happy Railroading!
(ducks to avoid getting punched in the face…), I have also pondered the good 'ol 4 x 8. Yes, I prefer more “advanced” layout shapes, etc. But seriously, the 4 x 8 has some good things going for it.
I’ll still most likely do the shelf layout, but there’s something so elegant about the 4 x 8. Continous running, could have a backdrop down the middle to have 2 distinct scenes, etc.
I am willing to stipulate that there might be situations where a 4 x 8 might be the best way to go. I have been a fan of the divider down the middle ala Harold. I also like John Armstrong’s Pennsylvania and Potomac.
The one thing I really like about 4x8’s is how deep scenes can be if one one side you have very small staging and the other side takes up like 3.5 feet in for a very realistic scene.
The workshop is a must. I like the idea of running an unscenicked loop around the workbench. However, what if it was more like 6 in wide so that you could put in some simple things like trees and a backdrop? That would make it a real extension of your layout, yet not take extreme space. I like the idea of while working putting a train on continuous run just to watch it while working. Maybe you could put staging at your workbench.
Yes, railroadyoshi, I was thinking the unscenicked loop could be used as staging: a few tracks wide (maybe 4 or 5), cheap Atlas code 100 flex, etc., making it easy to build, and I wouldn’t care if it got damaged by a stray hammer blow, etc. (wow, what a run-on sentence!).
Has anyone considered desgining a “cover” for a shelf layout return loop? Ok, suppose you have your basic 2’ x 8’ shelf layout, with a retun loop on one end ( what about a 40" diameter). What I’m proposing is designing the loop part of the layout so that you can cover and uncover it with a raised top that sits flush with all the edges of the loop that you could use for a work area when not running trains. That way, if you run trains, take the cover off. Want to work on your latest kit? Cover the loop and the top of the cover could be cork, or have a cutting board built in, holders for paints and other tools? Is this doable??
Here’s another idea to kick around. Since space is at a premium here, maybe a layout hinged to a shelf built onto the garage wall and your layout hinged to it so it can be folded up when not in use. The shelf should be wide enough so your scenery-structures are not croushed when folded and with a little planning the shelf itself coud be part of the layout too. with a little more planning the legs to support the layout when in use could also be hinged to the wall to swing in to the wall when the layout is stored in the up position. Just a thought here, Ken
One way to free up more space for storage/workshop is with some altitude–my layout is 48-50" off the ground, which leaves room for shelves and workbench underneath–I use several shelf units, each about 3’ high, and my worktables are 30" high which leaves enough room for 18" high parts organizers against the back wall. Plenty of storage and workbench space, although the higher your layout the narrower you’ll want to have it–but the better it looks when watching trains go by!
