I was thinking about doing a 4'×8' train table. Would this be big enough or is there a better size close to this? Very new to model trains. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk
Scott- Strictly my opinion here- The first thing I would do, is look at the available space. Will this be a dedicated area, or shared for other family uses? It's size, shape, limitations such as windows, doors, closets, stairs and other objects which must be there such as furnishings or utilities. Measure it out, and make a sketch. After that, tell us what scale you are considering, any thoughts on a specific railroad, setting and so forth. Then you will be closer to thinking about your benchwork. Don't rush. You won't regret spending a bit of extra time on this stage of the process.
What space are you attempting to fit this into? What are your operational interests? Train watcher or car forwarding? Scenic goals? If N scale I would go longer and a little more narrow if needed. If HO You might consider focusing on a switching layout.
I chose a modified 4x8 layout because I wanted portability and I had enough room to place the layout so that it had access on all 4 sides. That size room could probably better accommodate a more interesting layout but it wouldn't be portable. The modification was to set the track on a 4x8 and then extend each side by 3" to allow for scenery.
Just a thought, but if you have enough room for a 2' 'aisle' around the perimeter, then you have enough room for what is effectively and 8' x 12' around the room 2' wide. You'll have much more mainline straight track to run, and you'll be able to fit 18" radius curves (based on laying the track in the center). It will be much more satisfying to operate and more visually appealing than a 4 x 8.
Here is a little more Info. It will be HO scale. It is going in my garage. I have a few things out there already sofa exercise equipment and stuff for my fish tanks and other stuff. I have a 4'×8' craft table that was made years ago. I was going to use it. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk
Sounds like maybe time for a garage sale! Is your garage fairly tight to weather? So if winds blow, you don't get much dust and grit inside? How about temperature and humidity variations, which can be a problem for layout maintenance and survival?
Not really tight. I guess never thought about that. Yes it has temp swimgs and humidity. I guess I need to rethink all this. Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G900A using Tapatalk
