Good morning all. I've finally got some construction completed with the frames. This was delayed a little by adding cables and ducting for the overhead lighting,my first pic shows this in place, it carries a power lead and a data cable for the "dawn to dusk" effects. The small section of pelmet is temporary to support the cables and power socket. I've decided to leave final lighting, which I can access from the front of the layout, until after the main layout is complete. This will enable me to fine tune where the lighting is directed onto the layout.

When that is done I will install a longer pelmet which will run along the full front edge, albeit on the ceiling, of the layout.

I've constructed the 5 main frames for the layout from the components I had cut previously. I worked on the plywood sheet I have already purchased for the "track support". I'm using Titebond III wood glue and some Spax screws, I've always found this combination to provide a good strong joint. You'll also see I'm using a large square to check every corner but I am very happy to say that the frames went together really square and level, the accuracy achieved using the table saw slide really paid dividends, I've seen so many people use one on YouTube but have never got round to making one myself - will definitely use again and may well build a larger one to keep with my saw.

Each frame was left to dry overnight before standing up out of the way.

Here are the first 2 frames in place with the added legs and cross bracing. The legs are 75mm square PSE with screw in feet to which I've added a thin felt pad, I'll level everything up when all the frames are in. The legs are attached to the frames using 100mm coach bolts, 3 per leg. I'm also bolting the frames together using 50mm coach bolts. Finally the bracing is CLS 38mm x 63mm which I've planed and chamfered.

That's about it for now, I'll finish putting the legs on the other frames and then I'll be ready to start cutting the plywood according to the track plan - that should be interesting!