When planning to build a layout it is always a good idea to set some objectives and goals. Begin with the end in mind. Apart from providing pleasure, what else do you want from your layout? When you think about it, you’ll probably decide that is has to be functional and as realistic as possible. Write down what you want to achieve and then you can get started on the exciting part where you can combine your vision and attention to detail with your creativity, technical, and problem solving skills.

Ask yourself: How will your layout operate? Do you want several trains to be on the move at the same time? What type of rolling stock do you want to run? Do you enjoy shunting wagons around a goods yard? Maybe you just want to switch on and watch your train go round and round a circle of track. Do you want to run to a timetable?

Get the idea? You won’t know the answer to every question you come up with, but it will help clarify your thinking as to what you really want to achieve.

It is a fact that many modelers begin their interest in model railroads without having a specific interest in any one particular railway line or company. The trains that they start out running have either been given to them as a gift or chosen because they look nice or are priced within the budget.

Improve Your Knowledge And Avoid Costly Mistakes

Mistakes can be costly so take your time and work through the process carefully, logically and thoroughly. After all, buying a train set or building a layout is not a race. It is better to think things through carefully and then do things the best way to achieve your goals.

We all make mistakes especially when we are learning. So, with this in mind it’s usually best to start small. Then hopefully, mistakes can be small too. You will probably want to purchase only a small amount of track to start off and maybe some plugs, switches, an engine or two, and a few cars. A small track layout of 4×8 or less might be a good place to start. There is no point in being intimidated (and maybe discouraged) by a large or complex set when you are learning the basics. With a smaller set it will be easier to fix mistakes or make changes.

A 4×8 layout is large enough to fit the 18-inch radius curves that come with many train sets. With a 4×8 layout there is also room for an oval with 18-inch radius ends and a few sidings.

You can always add accessories and upgrade your set as you go along.

Model railroading is the type of hobby that will progress as you progress.

By not going overboard at the beginning, you give yourself a chance to see what you need to make it even better.