Tsehum Grist Mills

Web Page Updated Oct 15/09

I had been using a 2' by 4' portable resin table for a workbench and it occurred to me that it might make a good base for a mini layout. I decided on several criteria: It would be dual gauge Each gauge would have a continuous run There would be a dual gauge interchange, turntable and engine facility Cassette feeds for each gauge would connect to "elsewhere" and would allow for introduction and removal of equipment Next, I wanted to expand my line drawing to get some idea of how the layout would work by scanning the drawing into PhotoShop and added scenery and buildings. I thought Google SketchUp could be used to "lift" elevated portions of the layout to give me a 3D visualization. Finally, to smooth out transitions and complete my drawing, I used PhotoShop once again. Here is the result:

While I was at it, I worked out a tentative operating scheme. The layout divides quite neatly into 2 operating areas: Depending upon the number and mix of cars and the scheduling of movements, operations could be simple or complex. The layout would work if it was built to another scale (HO/HOn30) or to a single gauge. There is also room for more sidings on the upper level.