Make. Paint. Build: Tips and tutorials for model train enthusiasts, modellers and miniature painters.
Electrics
Hints, tips and advice on installing, building and fixing model railway electrics and wiring.
How to attach wires to model train track
Moving up from track clips to attaching power wires to track? Here are 3 techniques, how to do each and the pluses and minuses of each. [...]
Ferrules, how and why to use them
Want to improve your electrical wiring contacts? Meet the electrical ferrule. [...]
Heat shrink protecting T junction cable joins
How to insulate wire T solder joints with heat shrink tubbing. You can't just slide heat shrink tubing over a T joint. [...]
A primer on wire sizes
Using the right wire for a model railway will not only be cheaper it'll make the wiring easier. But what are the right sizes of wire to use. [...]
Best stripping tool for bus wiring
The easiest, fastest and best way to cut and strip wires for electrical work. [...]
Layout soldeirng tips for wiring you can trust
A step-by-step pictorial guide to soldering strong, reliable, wiring. [...]
The best model railway controllers for DC / Analogue layouts
Want to upgrade from the standard model train controller? Not sure which controller to buy? This is my guide to picking the best analogue to fit your budget [...]
What voltage do N scale model trains run on
What's the best voltage for N scale trains to run on? [...]
How to wire Circuitron Tortoise Point Motors
Here's a quick simple guide to how I wire my Tortoise slow-motion point motors and use them with Lever operated passing contact switches. [...]
What magic is this? How do I get working bicycles on my model railway?
You've probably seen moving cars, buses and lorries on model railways but how about bicycles complete with cyclists, their legs furiously moving up and down? [...]
Light up with Magnets – How to easily and flexibly illuminate your buildings
A simple technique for wiring your buildings for lighting while still allowing them to be easily moved and worked on.
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How to fit platform lights
No model railway station is complete without platform lighting. Here's how to do it in five simple steps and a video walkthrough. [...]
DC or DCC? What do you prefer and why
This is one of those topics that everyone has a view on. But what do real-world modellers prefer? [...]
Fixing & connecting wires together without soldering
If you struggle with joining wires — such as track feeders to bus wiring — this is for you. [...]
A handy modelling tool
If only I had more fingers.
That’s something almost every modeller has uttered at one point or another.
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How to join and solder wires for the most reliable connections
How have I missed this? [...]
Electrics, an update on the £35 Model Railway Project
The electrics: A gamble that worked but I'm behind schedule. [...]
Add more power: Manic Monday Quick Tips #1
Pressed for time..need to get a modelling fix? Here's the first in a new series of quick to carry out tips to improve your layout.
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Sounds good – audio effects for layouts
We've had sound in locomotives but what about sound in your buildings? [...]
Baseboard tips: make wiring easier with a splash of paint
I wish I'd done this before my most recent journey to the dark side of my layout!
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