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Approaching Done - The last stages of the NES

Michael's picture
Posted December 22nd, 2007 by Michael
 

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Claiming a layout is ‘done’ is rather bold, as the common mantra shared by modelers is that ‘a layout is never finished’. I’ve enjoyed building this little layout over the last year, and I’m happy with the results; encouraged by what I’ve learned. This is my first layout and I’m now excited about starting another, somewhat bigger layout based on the WHRC. I’m beginning to understand what aspects of the hobby I enjoy and what areas I’d like to pursue further, as well as those aspects that just don’t grab my interests (yet!). That being said, I will finish this layout. I’d regret not investing the last 20hrs or so that it will take to get the NES to a basic completed level so rather then start a new project, I’m going to spend the next 2 weeks trying to finish this one. I have every intention of starting my new layout by the second week of January so the push is on. Here is the list of what needs to be done:

  • Finish the last building for the town
  • Scratch build a warehouse for the ‘autumn spur’
  • Plant the remaining trees
  • Complete the small ‘country vinette’
  • Spend an evening adding final details: telephone poles etc.


Once these projects are complete, the layout will be done. Understandably, there is a great deal more that ‘could’ be done – but I’d rather invest that time on my next layout.

Anyway, here’s a progress shot. Town is almost complete!

forblog


Michael, sounds good and

BryanC's picture
On December 22nd, 2007 BryanC says:

Michael, sounds good and looks excellent!

Would you care to share those aspects of the hobby that you enjoy the most and those you still have to get used to?


Pretty nice for a practice

taz-n-rr's picture
On December 24th, 2007 taz-n-rr says:
Pretty nice for a practice session.
Charles

Michael,I liked the whole

filfreight's picture
On December 28th, 2007 filfreight says:
Michael,
I liked the whole idea of doing a small layout to get used to it. I thought of doing something similar (a shelf layout). I like what you
have created, I especially like the 2 seasons-summer and fall on either side of the scenic divider. The colors and ballast choices are unique. You could always incorporate this into you "real" layout down the line... Look forward to seeing more...thanks for sharing.
Peace,
Phil

Colours

Michael's picture
On December 28th, 2007 Michael says:
filfreight wrote:
Michael,
I liked the whole idea of doing a small layout to get used to it. I thought of doing something similar (a shelf layout). I like what you
have created, I especially like the 2 seasons-summer and fall on either side of the scenic divider. The colors and ballast choices are unique. You could always incorporate this into you "real" layout down the line... Look forward to seeing more...thanks for sharing.
Peace,
Phil

The ballast colours are a frustrating story. When I started the layout I had envisioned the track being weed-ridden and unused, so I used some light brown ballast I had on hand. When I ran out of ballast, I discovered I could no longer purchase that same colour. I considered switching to a typical gray ballast but I couldn't blend it properly into the existing ballast. I wound up using a similar colour - which looks very light. The next layout will be done differently with proper cinders etc.

As for the 'overall' colours I wanted everything to blend so I stuck to a very limited pallete of colours. I think it does a good job of unifying everything, but perhaps does so at the expense of 'true' realism.


congratulations

Dexter's picture
On January 6th, 2008 Dexter says:

Michael,

That really looks great, and I think it is really great you were able to stick with finishing this layout before moving on to a larger project.  I have made that decision as well, but have to KEEP making it every day I work on it. In my "real" life I have trouble limiting myself, and when working on my layout, I am almost constantly clearing the rest of the garage to expand my layout into a club-sized masterpiece.   I have to constantly remind myself that: first- I am not capable of producing those results. And second- That I have never "Finished" anything in my life. (ask my wife about any remodeling project). I HAVE to finish this small test layout to prove that I can do it. I keep learning things, and regret mistakes that are a permanent part of this layout. If I were making those mistakes on a huge layout I would become to discouraged and probably rip it out.  

Back to you- very nice job. I love the tone of the colors (not colours) you have chosen, I really hope I can attain that- it really feels like real life- not too bright but not dreary either. Very nice. Can't wait to see your whole basement taken over with this great work!


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