It is always best to plan your layout trackwork in detail before starting anything to ensure what you want
actually fits the space available, considering, curve radius, point geometry, baseboard joints/framing etc.
Pencil sketches are suitable for a rough guide, but we advise producing an accurate plan before actual
starting.
Listed are three suggested methods of design: -
Raw: - The layout is determined by using completed or readymade point-work laid in place directly as required.
Templates: - Printed templates can be used to design a layout by laying them out directly on the baseboard. Commercially available curve templates are available in common radii e.g. 6ft/5 ft 6” etc.
Templot/Railtrack: - Layout design can be undertaken using computer design programmes such as ‘Templot’ and ‘Railtrack’. These programs can be very powerful but can take some time to learn and understand. The advantage is that these programmes can create an improved appearance of the track layout as it will flow in a prototypical manner and not be constrained by the dimensions of off the shelf pointwork. There are online forums and tutorials in many cases.