Category: Videos

Installing the valance

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Using Faesite (Masonite) sheet, installing the valance is quick and easy.

I purchased some black Faesite (Masonite) sheets, had them cut to length, and used them to install the valance. A valance helps direct and diffuse light onto the layout while preventing glare from LED strips or other light sources.

Below is a short video showing the final result with LED lighting on my N scale layout.

Valance Installation

Just like with the backdrop, I bent the board to create a smooth, rounded corner.

Installing the valance
Valance installed on the layout

Enhanced Visual Framing

The LED strips are hidden behind the valance. Installing the valance creates a more immersive and finished look by framing the scene and keeping the viewer’s focus on the trains and scenery. The valance helps conceal ceiling lights, room clutter, and other distractions outside the layout.

LED strips hidden behind the valance

Depending on the height and depth of the valance, the valance may make the layout feel more enclosed or get in the way of taller operators. Also, installing a valance requires additional materials, cutting, mounting, and possibly bending for curved corners.

That said, a well-designed valance adds a professional touch, making the layout appear more polished and realistic.

Lighting

I use three LED strips of different colors: 2700K, 4000K and blue light. Each strip is wired to a dimmable power supplies and dimmers , allowing independent control. Remote push-buttons control the lights. I used Italian brand Bticino Matix Go push-buttons.

Push-buttons to control the LED strips

I usually use a combination of 4000K and 2700K for daylight, while the blue light is on for night operations. In the photo below, the blue appears more saturated than it does in person.

Installing the valance: 4000K + 2700K
Blue light for nighttime operations

A well-planned valance and lighting setup transforms the look and feel of a model railroad. By combining different LED color temperatures, it’s possible to replicate natural lighting transitions, enhancing realism without drawing attention away from the trains.

Adjustable dimming and remote controls add convenience, allowing for seamless shifts between day and night scenes. Thoughtful lighting makes a huge difference in bringing the layout to life while keeping the focus on the trains and scenery.

Painting the backdrop sky blue

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Using acrylic or latex paint with a soft roller is a quick way for painting the backdrop sky blue.

Painting the backdrop sky blue is a simple yet effective way to enhance the realism of a model railroad layout. The benchwork’s depth limits the world we can model; thus, the backdrop creates the illusion of extending the space.

There is a school of thought in model railroading that advocates for using a very light blue. The idea is that the backdrop should serve as a subtle foundation rather than a focal point.

This approach helps maintain realism and it enhances the illusion of depth without drawing unnecessary attention.

I used this particular brand of wall paint because it offers excellent coverage and a smooth, flat finish, perfect for creating a seamless backdrop. It’s made by Dulux, a British brand.

Acrylic light blue wall paint

After sanding the backdrop panel joints, the backdrop is ready for a coat of paint.

Backdrop joints smoothed out

First coat!

Painting the backdrop sky blue with a first coat of acrylic wall paint.

After the first coat of paint, I let it dry for about 24 hours before applying the second coat. I then waited another 24 hours before adding a third coat. Here is the backdrop after the paint has dried.

Backdrop painted, paint fully dry.

By using subtle colors and smooth transitions, the backdrop serves as a supporting element – complementing the scene rather than competing with it. In the end, the goal is not to create a detailed painting but to establish a convincing setting where the trains remain the focal point.

For added depth, distant mountains can be painted onto the backdrop, especially those characteristic of the San Fernando Valley, California. Soft, hazy outlines in muted earth tones can suggest the presence of the Santa Susana or Verdugo Mountains without overwhelming the scene.

Subtle atmospheric perspective – lighter tones and reduced detail – helps create a sense of distance. With careful shading and color transitions, the backdrop seamlessly integrates with the modeled environment, enhancing realism without distraction.

Upgrading from Rapido to Micro-Trains Couplers

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Step-by-step guide on upgrading from Rapido to Micro-Trains couplers an older Atlas EMD GP40-2 locomotive.

I recently purchased a pair of older Atlas CSX GP40-2 locomotives at a good price on eBay. My goal is to upgrade these locomotives by replacing the factory Rapido couplers with Micro-Trains 1015 couplers, installing a DCC decoder, and repainting and re-lettering them for the Southern Pacific.

Upgrading from Rapido to Micro-Trains Couplers, Atlas GP40-2 shell removed

Removing the Old Rapido Coupler

Use tweezers to carefully remove the metal spring holding the Rapido coupler in place.

removing the old coupler spring

Gently detach the coupler retainer using tweezers or the non-cutting edge of a hobby knife.

removing the coupler retainer

Installing the new Micro-Trains Coupler

Remove the Rapido coupler entirely. Insert a pre-assembled Micro-Trains 1015 coupler into the coupler box.

Upgrading from Rapido to Micro-Trains Couplers, pushing in the new Micro-Trains 1015 knuckle coupler

Fit the original retainer back into place and securely push it into position.

securing the new coupler
new coupler secured in place

Checking Coupler Height After Upgrading from Rapido to Micro-Trains

Verify that both the front and rear couplers align correctly by using a Micro-Trains coupler height gauge.

checking front coupler height
checking rear coupler height

By upgrading from Rapido to Micro-Trains couplers, you will enhance the performance and appearance of your locomotives, ensuring compatibility with modern rolling stock while maintaining a realistic look.

Upgrading from Rapido to Micro-Trains Couplers, two GP40-2 with upgraded couplers

Rapido couplers, once a standard on many older N scale locomotives and rolling stock, are functional but lack the realism and operational reliability desired for modern model railroad layouts. They feature a bulky design that doesn’t closely mimic the appearance of real knuckle couplers, making them less appealing for hobbyists focused on realism.

Micro-Trains couplers, on the other hand, are widely recognized for their realistic knuckle-style design and superior performance. They provide smoother and more reliable coupling and uncoupling, which is crucial for layouts emphasizing realistic operation, such as switching industries or forming trains in a yard. Additionally, Micro-Trains couplers work seamlessly with uncoupling magnets, enabling hands-free operation, which enhances both playability and immersion.

For those looking to upgrade their layouts, converting from Rapido to Micro-Trains couplers is a worthwhile investment. It not only improves the overall aesthetic of the trains but also ensures smoother operations, reducing derailments and coupling issues that can disrupt realistic operating sessions.

Valance Construction

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Valance construction: building a valance for a clean, museum-quality layout lighting

I purchased more lumber and assembled the basic valance and lighting support. I also added vertical wood strips to secure the Masonite sheets for the backdrop.

Shopping cart loaded with lumber
Shopping cart loaded with lumber, valance construction begins!
Valance construction: Titebond wood glue
Using Titebond wood glue to assemble the valance support.

Titebond wood glue is a strong, reliable adhesive commonly used in woodworking and model railroad benchwork construction. It provides a durable bond, dries quickly, and remains flexible enough to withstand slight movements. Ideal for benchwork, it ensures a secure and long-lasting hold. Plus, it’s easy to apply and cleans up with water before drying.

View of the layout benchwork with valance support installed
Valance support installed. I need to install LED lighting and backdrop panels

Conclusion

A well-designed valance not only hides your lighting but also enhances the realism and presentation of your model railroad layout. By carefully planning and constructing a valance, you can achieve a museum-quality look while improving layout lighting for optimal visibility and atmosphere. Whether you’re using LED strips or other lighting solutions, a valance helps control glare and directs light precisely where it’s needed.

Building a model railroad valance is a rewarding project that adds a polished, professional touch to your display. With the right materials and techniques, you can create a seamless integration between lighting and scenery, elevating the overall aesthetic. Follow these steps to craft a valance that enhances your layout’s realism and visual appeal.

Layout lighting with LED strips

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Using dimmable LED strips for layout lighting

Every model railroad layout needs proper lighting and COB LED strips are relatively inexpensive. They can be easily hidden behind the valance to illuminate the whole layout with no dark spots.

I purchased a 200W dimmable power supply, two dimmers, and two COB LED strips (one 2700K and one 4000K). The plan is to wire the strips so they can be controlled and dimmed separately, allowing for the creation of the exact color temperature or varying light intensity to simulate early morning or late evening scenes.

Here is the test wiring and light effect. The dimmers are controlled using standard 230V buttons.

Dimmable LED strip power supply with dimmers
Bright COB LED strips, laid of the floor for testing

COD LED strips are certainly more expensive than traditional LED strips, but provide a consistent and continuous light with no dark spots. The strips can be cut and are quite flexible. A perfect solution for layout lighting is using LED strips.

New blue layout lighting LED strip for night scenes!

An updated version of the lighting power supplies and dimmers (including a blue LED strips for night scenes) is available.

Adding blue LED strips to the layout creates a subtle nighttime effect, simulating moonlight and low-light conditions for evening scenes. This blue lighting enhances the realism during nighttime operations, adding atmosphere.

By using different color temperature LED strips, such as 2700K for warm daylight, 4000K for neutral daylight, and blue strips for nighttime, I can effectively recreate realistic sunrise, sunset, and day-to-night transitions, enhancing the visual depth and atmosphere of the layout.

COB LED strips are ideal for creating a uniform lighting effect, making them perfect for model railroads where every detail needs to be visible without shadows or uneven lighting.

With the ability to customize brightness and color temperature, these strips help replicate realistic lighting conditions, from bright midday sun to soft evening glow, enhancing the layout’s realism.

Model Railroad Layout Benchwork

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Building the foundation of a model railroad layout. Benchwork key steps and materials

On a cold Sunday afternoon, I started preparing the main model railroad layout benchwork brackets that will be screwed to the wall. I’m using 55mm x 20mm lumber.

Below is a short (~30 sec) timelapse video of benchwork installation.

Brackets

The construction of the benchwork is a crucial step in the layout-building process. I’ve measured and cut the lumber to ensure proper alignment and support for the future layout. The brackets will be spaced along the wall, allowing for even weight distribution and access to all areas of the layout.

The wall-mounted design helps save valuable floor space while providing room for the layout to expand horizontally. Once the brackets are in place, I’ll add a layer of plywood. The plywood forms the base for the track and scenery, ensuring a smooth and level surface for the entire layout.

Model railroad benchwork brackets

I then added cantilevered brackets for increased support. Once finished I lined them up ready for installation.

Model railroad layout benchwork brackets ready to be screwed to the wall.

Securing the supports to the wall

Installation is done. The upper brackets will support the valance and layout lighting.

Model railroad layout benchwork secured to the wall.
Model railroad layout benchwork secured to the wall.

In the photo above, you can see how the bracket on the far right revealed that the wall is not straight at all. I had to use a piece of scrap wood as a shim to mount the bracket correctly.

A very useful book on model railroad layout benchwork construction is How to Build Model Railroad Benchwork, Second Edition (Model Railroader).