Build a lightweight layout Build a lightweight layout

Peter Marriott tries out a T-trak module and finds it a very accessible introduction to layout construction.

You need loads of space for a model railway, yes? Even a modest, Nevardesque job will still require something like a 3ft by 1ft space. But what if you could be given everything you need to build a small diorama in under 40cm? That’s right, a space just a little more than the size of an average ruler. And what if you were able to buy everything you need to get this project off the ground for under £50? Say hello to Kato’s T-trak modules. T-trak is a modular ‘N’ gauge modelling ‘family’ for want of a better word. It originated in Japan and is now popular the world over. You build dioramas on a standard sized baseboard with strict instructions on where to place the track. Other than that, you can decorate your diorama how you wish.

The idea is that you can couple multiple dioramas together to build a complete layout. Such is the popularity of T-trak that modules from all over the world could, in theory, connect together.

Famed Japanese manufacturer Kato has joined forces with Woodland Scenics to produce T-trak kits. There are two types – straight and corner – and they clip together using Kato’s Uni-joiners to make larger layouts. For just under £50 you get a 300mm by 360mm module that contains baseboard, track and landscaping materials. All that’s needed to complete the scene is your imagination – you decide on how you want the scene to look.

The modules are designed to fit on tables but could just as easily be setup on any flat surface. As the baseboards are so small, they are easy to assemble, dismantle, move and store. Yes, you need to supply your own scenic and detail materials, but these new kits are a brilliant way of getting into building layouts.

There are two pieces of foam that act as bracing for the two pieces of hardboard. Slide them onto the two pieces of hardboard.

This is the completed module. It’s a sturdy structure capable of being handled without falling apart. Now you can start on building the scene how you wish.

Cut a small gap in the base of the foam support for the track to thread the connecting wires from the underside of the track.

I found some spare scraps of foam and glued them to the sides and edges of the scene to create some additional height and avoid a ‘billiard table’ diorama.

In one corner I decided to build up a raised section to accommodate a house and driveway. I made this from a piece of mounting cardboard resting on a piece of hard foam. To blend this into the rest of the landscape, I cut pieces of plaster cloth and, having wetted them, stuck them onto the landscape. When dry, I painted the whole scene with Woodland Scenics Earth Colour green applied with a 2in household paintbrush. Now you’re free to add the final scenic details.