Train set plans are a great way to start the hobby, to determine your hobby interests, and to gain techical and modeling skills that can be put to the test on follow - on layouts of greater interest.
For many beginning model railroaders, the first step in constructing their first layout is to head to the local lumber yard for a sheet of 4x 8 plywood. Their next stop is to find a track plan that works for them.
For those new in the hobby, both Model Railroader and Railroad Model Craftsman publish books of track plans. Track Planning for Sectional Track and 101 Track Pans for Model Railroads were two that I purchased years ago as a youth. Atlas Manufacturing published track plan books that highlighted their track and control products and I got several of those too.
Originally those track plans were often simple ovals where the reader could chose the track plan that interested them, and modify it as desired One designer’s layout recommendation was: 1) discard the layouts that are too big for the space you have, 2) look for a plan that have one or two main line tracks, and 3) while it should have some space for scenery the modeler can sacrifice scenery for more spurs and yards.
Today those track plans are still available as are new published layout plans. The oval layout has been supplimented by L-shaped and U-shaped designs, and can be designed to reflect the modelers interest in operational theme and scenic realism.
Those entering the hobby for the first time will find these layout designs an easy way to determine if the hobby is right for them. The skill level and expectations are low, the materials are easy to find and assemble, the ready to run equipment (both track, locomotives and rolling stock) are at the lower end of the financial range.
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