How to Build Buildings for Model Railroads

Select the structures you want to use on your layout. Remember to purchase structures that would exist in the time period you are modeling. Go to walthers.com or other model train websites and visit your local hobby dealer. Check for swap meets in your area to find bargains and ready-made buildings you can install quickly and easily.

Open the kit and count the parts to make sure everything is there. Assemble the kit according to the directions. Securely fasten the walls and the roof to each other; use clamps of various types. Some buildings come with a base that you may or may not want to incorporate into your layout, depending on your terrain.

Add interior details, including lighting, before you glue the structure together. Coat the bulbs or LEDs with flat black paint for a more muted, realistic glow. You will have to order interior details separately unless you bought a Craftsman or other advanced kit designed for experienced modelers. Lighting and interior details provide fascinating viewing for onlookers, especially when the lights are turned off.

Use basic weathering techniques on the structure. Choose chalk or paint colors that match the environment you're modeling. If you're building city structures on a steam era layout, make track-side structures grimy from smoke. Mountainside buildings need to look weather-beaten.

Place your finished structures so that they appear realistic. Don't put a tall building right next to the track, because this seldom happens in real life. Place structures in the same manner as in reality so they look more lifelike. Scatter around model people, junk or other details for greater realism.