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Caboose Hobbies Train Tips

"Where did the scales come from?"
A whimsical look at track width. Some think this is were it all began. What do you think?
Step 1
Step 1 is our first newsletter for the beginner.
Step 2
"Our book recommendations" Difference between the scales
"Basic Tools"
A description of some of the basic tools you might need to enjoy Model Railroading!
"Evergreen Trees"
How to make Large Evergreen Trees in your scale.
"Kit Bashed Structures"
Just what is a 'kit bash'? Is it painful? No, just click here to find out how to make structures that the kit makers didn't have in mind!

Basic Tools that you will need in Model Railroading



What to Build:
The beauty of this hobby is that you have the power to create your own railroad world and you are only limited by your own imagination. You might want to model the town you grew up in or some ghost town you have visited in your travels. Many modelers choose a general theme: a farm, a ranch, a city or a mountain community. Best of all, how about a setting that exists no where on earth except in your own mind and imagination? Visit our book, magazine, video and Instructional book departments for an unlimited wealth of information and ideas.

Work area and tools:
Here are some ideas that will help you in building plastic and wooden kits:

- You should have a clean and well lighted work area. The kitchen table will work, but it is best to have a designated work area where you can leave your building project unattended and undisturbed.

- There are hundreds of tools to select from and the following is a list of a few of the basics to get you started:
  1. Clippers - rail nippers, Diagonal cutting pliers, etc.
  2. Cements for both plastic and wood.
  3. Hobby knives with a #11or other blade - an assorment is a good start.
  4. Masking tape -specialized Rice paper tape has easy lift adhesive.
  5. Paint -Solvent based, enamels, water-based acrylics and printer's ink are a few types.
  6. Sandpaper - Paper backed or Mylar backed or in specialized holders.
  7. Toothbrush.
  8. Tweezers.
  9. Cotton Swabs, facial sponges.
  10. Toothpicks -Flat and round.
  11. Model Railroading scale ruler. They usually have different scales on the same ruler.
  12. NMRA Standards Gauge. They are all the same shape, but come in different scales.
  13. Paintbrushes - start with inexpensive ones. As your skills progress, get better quality.
  14. Oil and grease, plastic compatible! There also conducting lubes.
  15. Razor saw(s).
  16. Pin vise with numbered drill bits.
  17. A 2-56 or 4-40 tap and die set for screws.
  18. A set of small reamers - sometimes they are easier to use than a drill bit.
  19. Files - a large flat mill, as well as a set of jeweler's files.
  20. Screwdrivers - a jeweler's set.

Some of these tools are very inexpensive, and will last you a lifetime. Others may be more expensive and specialized (such as a NWSL Chopper, if you are cutting a large number of small pieces). Either way, you don't need them all at once. Build up your collection and put them in one place.

The staff at Caboose Hobbies is well experienced. They can give you solid advise on any tools that may be necessary.

We are here to help you.We can assist and guide you along your model railroading journey.
We hope to have the opportunity to help you in the near future!
  Sunday 19 May, 2013     100411470 requests since Saturday 26 March, 2005  

500 South Broadway
Denver, Colorado, USA, 80209-4002
Hours: Mon-Fri: 10:00 - 6:00PM, Sat: 9AM - 5PM, Sun: 11:00AM - 5:00PM
Phone: (303)777-6766 - Fax: (303)777-0028 - Toll-Free(Orders Only): (800)886-1813
Email: information@caboosehobbies.com

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