Frequently Asked Questions
When and why did this site start?
The domain name was initially registered in 2012 but at the time the site was scant with content or information. Slowly over the years more information was added.
The site was primarily created in an attempt to provide information and ideas to those model railroaders who find themselves with limited space and mistakenly believe that they cannot build a model railroad due to lack of space.
What is a small train layout?
A small train layout is a model railroad or railway that occupies a space up to about 30sq foot (or about 2.8 square meters), very often much less space is used. A small train layout differs from a diorama because it is not a static display, instead trains can actually run on a small train layout. Very often a small train layout will offer engaging operations.
What is a micro layout?
A small model railroad in which the modelled portion is four square feet or less in space but still offers engaging operation. Staging in the form of cassettes are allowed.
What is a nano layout?
A small model railroad in which the modelled portion is one square foot or less in space but still offers engaging operation. Staging in the form of cassettes are allowed.
Why would anyone want to build a small layout?
Advantages of micro/small layouts include:
- They are small enough to complete in a reasonable period of time
- They are small enough to be reasonable in cost
- They are small enough to allow detailing to a very high level
- They are often small enough to take with you to train shows and meets
- They require very little space and are easy to store
- They're a lot of fun!