Building a Plastic Model Train

Model trains have been popular for decades with both kids and adults. The appeal is simple - you get to live out your fantasies of being a train engineer, crashing trains together or building trains. While you can buy model trains from a number of quality toy train manufacturers, there is something to be said for designing and building your own plastic model trains.

Choosing a Plastic Model Train Scale

The first decision that you have to make when interested in building a plastic model train is what scale to use. The scale that a model train has is based on the ratio between the size of your model and the size of an actual train. The scale can be expressed as a number ratio or as a letter gage. One of the smallest scales is Z, it has a ration of 1:220. N scale trains have a ratio of 1:160, HO scale trains have a ratio of 1:87 and O scale trains have a ratio of 1:48. The most popular scales for model trains are H, O, and HO.

Body Design for Your Model Train

Now that you have determined the size of the train you want to build you are ready to determine what type of train you want to make. If you have never built a model train before you will want to visit a hobby shop to see what model kits are available. These kits will provide you with all of the parts, tools and accessories that you need to create scale models of real life trains from the Amtrak line, Metroline and historical train lines. Make sure you read the instructions on the back of the box to make sure you understand what comes with the kit and what items you need to buy separately.

If you can't find a model that you like, look through a picture book on trains to find your inspiration. You can then buy parts at a hobby shop to assemble your own train design.

Selecting Paint and Decals for Your Model Trains