Creech Barn: a layout is born…

Probably the best thing about small micro layouts is the pace at which you can get things moving. This layout at just 34 x 27cm is probably about as small as you can go and still call it a ‘layout’, and has proven to be a case in point…

Starting where we’ll finish, the completed baseboard with mock up of track position, buildings, walls etc to begin to get a feel for the layout.

My preferred method for these box sized micro layouts is laminating MDF. In this case a 5mm base with a 9mm top, allowing for a sector plate well to be cut, as well as some places allowing for lower land next to the railway.

This is just marked out with ruler tape measure compass and pencil… nothing ground breaking… and then cut outside with a jig saw on my old Work Mate. The jig saw is convenient for small layouts like this and makes easy work of the awkward shapes. An 8mm drill is used to cut through the pit, to allow it be sawn out.

Clamped together for a few hours to let the PVA set I’ve since added the stock and a few old buildings and boxes to get a feel for where this adventure will take me…

Ending where we started, reflecting it feels good to be playing with this scale again, alongside more serious longer term projects. This is a chance to ‘play’ with my 009 collection and I can’t wait to get some track down. I am happy to design and build your own micro layout, get in touch to discuss how we can make that a reality. More soon…