The Bandit

Very nice. Terrific progress in such a short time!

Okay then - no more quibbling, no more fence sitting. How big is the maximum size of a micro layout if a micro layout is “a great deal smaller than typical”. My problem here, if you don’t mind me asking is what is ‘typical’?

I for one have no problem with the parameters set for micro layouts for inclusion in The Dispatch. Without them any size layout could be submitted then the whole point is lost. Having a set size for inclusion also makes people work in a creative way to fit a scene within the area stipulated. Ian should be congratulated on the efforts he is making to make layout building more inclusive. Large layouts are lovely but not everyone has the space or financial means to build one. I have submitted one micro and another is on the way. My first micro was picked up by a French magazine and included in one of their issues. This made me very proud and it was thanks to Ian that this happened.

Another great issue. Well done Ian.

Keep up the good work. The world needs more micro layouts!

When is/was the deadline for the winter/Christmas issue Ian? I read the deadline date somewhere but can’t remember where. It’s an age thing!

Lots of people use fine/N ballast as I understand. For a yard or down at heel line I use beach sand and/or modelling clay. Hope this helps.

Do have a go. I did and I found Ian very accommodating - especially patient with regards to my useless IT skills!

Very nice - shouts out sleepy backwater (but not too loudly I hope!)

Enjoying this thread. A nicely proportioned group of buildings.

I love this cos I love all small layouts - shows you don’t need loads of space or deep pockets to enjoy model railways.

Absolutely superb! Being a fan of micro layouts I just love this concept you are working on!

Not sad - it’s attention to detail.

Some very nice woodworking there. A great base on which to build.

Keith, I am using a similar box file at the moment. I used both a knife and saw to ‘deconstruct’ mine. Be aware that the more you cut off, the less rigid it becomes of course. I am getting towards the end of the construction stage and fixed my track to ply a little smaller in dimensions than the file. This avoided the bottom going soggy - cos we all know there is nothing worse than a soggy bottom! A smaller ply base allows a back scene to slide into the back and sides. Building onto a ply base allows you to do lots of construction/electrics/scenic work and then you can place the base into the box file. If you want to see my first box file google M & J Brewery Sidings and hopefully the pictures will be there. Enjoy building your micro layout.

Superb and inspirational modelling.

Just amazing. I feel as though I could step into the picture.

You’re doing a great job there. I love everything micro - don’t need as much space and money and you can concentrate on real detail.

I agree Jim - there has to be parameters to work within or else anything goes. Ian and yourself as exponents of the ‘true’ micro layout are able to prove to those without large spaces, large wallets (or both) that small layouts enable anyone to build and operate a model railway, thus encouraging new blood to the hobby. Good luck with your e-mag venture Ian.

Utterly stunning!

Great work Jerry. You can’t beat a well planned and constructed micro layout to prove that you don’t need acres of space to build or enjoy a model railway. In these days of small modern houses and flat living it could be the future of layouts for many people. Keep up the good work providing others with inspiration.

Very nice Jerry. It all ties together very well to make a compact and interesting scene. More pictures to follow please.

Nice to see how you’re gradually building up the scene Jerry. Any ideas about a scenic break to the fiddle yard? Always a problem for me as I like something a bit different but the question is always “What?”

ModelU do a nice standpipe.

Have long admired your work. The level of detail and realism is just amazing. Thank you for the pleasure it has given viewing your layouts.