A Quick Guide to Model Railway Baseboards

Are you thinking of building your own model railroad? Creating a layout from scratch is the best way to get a customized layout with all the details you want. However, it also takes a bit of time and energy to make. With that, consider this quick guide to model railway baseboards, which are the first part of the layout you’ll need to build.

What Are Baseboards?

The baseboard is the foundation for your entire model railroad. It needs to be perfectly level and made of a material you can drill holes into for securing electrical components and other parts. Most people use one of the following materials for their baseboards:

• Plywood—the top choice
• MDF
• Chipboard
• Sundeala boards

When you select your baseboard material, you also need to think about how you want to display your railroad. Do you have a table to set the baseboards on? Or will you need to build a baseboard with legs? Do you plan on taking your layout to conventions? These choices will impact how you design the baseboard.

Planning Your Layout

Before you buy your baseboard material, it’s a good idea to plan out exactly what you want your layout to look like. You can do this with software or just a few sheets of jumbo graph paper taped together. Plan out where you want your tracks to go, as well as any points and switches. And don’t forget to leave room for scenery.

Making the Baseboard

Now that you know how you want your layout to look and what size it needs to be, you can decide on the materials to buy. Plywood is a good choice because it’s fairly strong without being too heavy. However, you’ll probably want to build a frame around the base using regular timber. This will give you a way to carry your layout and keep the edges of your setup sharp and clean.

Making a Portable Baseboard

If you plan to travel with your baseboard, you’ll need to work that into the design. Make sure you use lightweight materials so you can carry it easily. You’ll also need to ensure it’s not too wide to fit through doors, around stairwells, and inside your vehicle.

Now that you’ve read our quick guide to model railway baseboards, it’s time to start working on your layout. Check out Midwest Model Railroad’s online supply of HO train locomotives and building materials—we carry track pieces, control systems, scenery, and more. Contact us today if you have any questions.