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  • What is lichen?
    What is lichen?

    Lichen is a versatile and natural material often used in modelling to recreate realistic landscapes, particularly when depicting trees, bushes and other forms of ground cover. You may have encountered it in dioramas or model railway setups, where...

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  • What is a 4 aspect signal?
    What is a 4 aspect signal?

    In the context of UK railways, a "four-aspect signal" is a type of railway signal that provides four distinct indications to inform train drivers of track conditions and speed requirements ahead. Aspect signals are critical for ensuring safe and...

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  • What is the Manor Class engine?
    What is the Manor Class engine?

    The Manor Class (also called 7800 Class) is a fascinating piece of British railway heritage, representing a class of steam locomotives developed by the Great Western Railway (GWR) in the 1930s and 1940s. You may already be familiar with the famed...

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  • What is balsa wood?
    What is balsa wood?

    Balsa wood is one of the most commonly used materials in modelling, particularly favoured for its lightweight and easy-to-work-with properties. It is a soft, fast-growing wood, native to Central and South America, and is widely recognised for...

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  • Is wood better than plastic for modelling?
    Is wood better than plastic for modelling?

    When it comes to scale modelling, the debate between using wood or plastic is a long-standing one. Both materials have their merits, but the choice largely depends on what you're trying to achieve in your model and your personal preferences as a...

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  • Forgotten scales: exploring uncommon model railway gauges
    Forgotten scales: exploring uncommon model railway gauges

    When most people think of model railways, they tend to picture popular scales like O, OO or N gauge, which dominate the market. However, there is a whole world of lesser-known or "forgotten" scales that have been quietly gathering a niche...

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  • What is a roundhouse?
    What is a roundhouse?

    A roundhouse refers to a specialised building, typically found in larger rail depots, designed for housing and maintaining locomotives. Its most distinctive feature is its circular or semi-circular shape, which allows locomotives to be easily...

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  • What are the advantages of using a pin pusher?
    What are the advantages of using a pin pusher?

    A pin pusher is an invaluable tool for precision work, offering several advantages that can make your projects smoother and more professional. If you're keen to enhance the accuracy and quality of your builds, using a pin pusher is a must. Let's...

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  • What is TT:120 scale?
    What is TT:120 scale?

    TT:120 scale is a popular model railway scale and track gauge used by modellers in the UK and beyond. The 'TT' in TT:120 stands for 'Table Top', reflecting its compact size that makes it suitable for modelling on a table or in limited space. The...

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  • How do I make a tunnel on my railway layout?
    How do I make a tunnel on my railway layout?

    Creating a tunnel on your model railway layout can add depth and realism to your setup. Here’s a step-by-step guide tailored for a UK modeller: Materials you may need:Cardboard or plywood for the tunnel base Modelling plaster or foam for...

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  • What are Preiser figures?
    What are Preiser figures?

    Preiser figures are highly detailed, miniature model figures commonly used in model railways, architectural designs and dioramas. Manufactured by the German company Preiser, they are renowned for their precision, craftsmanship, and the wide...

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  • What is a vacuum brake?
    What is a vacuum brake?

    The vacuum brake is a type of braking system that was historically used on many railway vehicles before more modern systems such as the air brake became widespread. It operates using the principle of atmospheric pressure and a vacuum created in...

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