Step by step

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Modelling Tyne Dock Class 24s in 'OO' gauge

TIM SHACKLETON goes for a high-fidelity weathering treatment that squares with the level of detail on a matched pair of Sulzer Type 2s.

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BEGINNERS GUIDE: Where do I start?

Before you start building a model railway, there are a few important questions to consider. JONATHAN NEWTON looks at what they are and what some options might be.

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BEGINNERS GUIDE: Choosing a model railway scale

Choosing a gauge to model can present a challenge. However, as RICHARD HALL explores, the ever-increasing ranges across multiple scales each provide their own strengths and benefits.

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BEGINNERS GUIDE: Developing the grand plan

Developing your layout’s design is a highly rewarding part of the process. MARK CHIVERS offers a few hints and tips to help create that master track plan.

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BEGINNERS GUIDE: Top tips for a better layout

Some simple steps can maximise your enjoyment of your model railway. JONATHAN NEWTON offers 20 top tips to aid construction and reliable operation of your new layout.

Bachmann Patriot 4-6-0 on Topley Dale. Feature Premium

BEGINNERS GUIDE: Transform your layout

Details can make a very real difference to a layout, transforming it from a train set to a model railway. JONATHAN NEWTON examines the options.

Weathering a Diesel Brake Tender in OO gauge. Feature Freemium

Weathering Diesel Brake Tenders in 'OO' gauge

With a new selection of Key Publishing’s exclusive ‘OO’ gauge diesel brake tender now available, TIM COOPER shows how some gentle weathering can really bring this model to life.

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Construction: Topley Dale station renovation

Platforms looking empty, tired signage or just needing a little maintenance. MIKE WILD offers 10 top tips to breath new life into any station scene no matter how big or small.

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Construction: Scratch-building in styrene

TIM SHACKLETON demonstrates the basics of wagon building using plastic sheet and strip – what’s involved, what to use, how to go about it. Using ordinary hand tools and equally simple techniques, it may be easier than you might think.

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Workbench: Quickfix canopy

Using a combination of kits, components and scratchbuilding, Mike Wild developed a canopy and building frontage to fill a void on Hornby Magazine's 'OO' gauge terminus layout Grosvenor Square.