How to Design a Model Railroad (Model Railroader)

I've finished this book and added many notations with post-its to go back and document important points and key recommendations for designing an efficient, close to prototype model railroad. The book is well written and offers all the important points to getting your model railroad designed with all the right key elements.

Nice book

Great

May be what other needed but not me

Very helpful, well written, great photos.

I bought 5 books to do my modelling, one on DCC wiring, 2 n scale layout books, one on benchwork & this. This was the best. The first, third, and last i read. It really ties the whole of what youre trying to accomplish together. It gives you the right questions to be asking yourself. Invaluable for a 1st time layout.

Whether you're just starting in this hobby or have years of experience, if you want to understand the secrets to a great design, this is the place to begin. I've read everything I can find from Lance including his other books as well as his articles in MRR, MRC & MRH and he is at the top of his game! This is the only book you need if you're considering designing or rebuilding your model railroad. In my case I finally have the time and will soon have the space to build my pike and now I'm fully prepared finish my design. Thanks Lance for continuing to share your expertise with us... Buy this book, you won't be disappointed!

I have been amassing trains and structures for years in anticipation of building a nice layout in retirement (just a couple of years away). This book helped me organize my thoughts about what I wanted to do and why I wanted to do it. He does not sugar coat the reality of layout building and maintenance, but that's why it's such a useful book. Very glad I read it before I started building.

Excellent approach to building a Model Railroad. The author discusses the psychological and resource considerations that a model Railroader should be aware of when building a layout. This is not a book that considers only the technical aspect of track design.

Dear Mr. Mindheim!I have just studied „How to design a Model Railroad“ over and over.Thank you for this great book as it realy addresses the most import issues prior starting to build.I am personally preparing for building a specific model railroad and got your writing at the right time,as it encourages me to step back and rethink the basic things.Congratulations and Best RegardsHermann JahrmannAustriaPinkafeld and Linz

What a breath of fresh air. The authour's engaging style and personal approach to design makes the material widely accessible, no matter the period, location, style or type of model you wish to create. The book offers a logical and sequenced approach to design and concept, whilst still recognising rule 1 "it's your model railway". The author's approach also feels conversational, rather than directive and allows for concepts and ideas to be digested before progressing to the next element.The book would benefit both experienced modellers as a refresher and would also help a beginner/starter avoid some early frustrations by investing time and thought into what they'd like to do beyond "getting trains on the track".Given the insights and practical ideas included, this book is well worth the price - prior planning prevents poor performance is very much the moniker. Highly recommended.

It is just what it is

Must have book in any railway modlers collection. Don't be put off because its American.