Bit quiet here, this weekend, isn't it? Barely 30 posts over the last 24 hours. We normally do better than that on a weekday. Is everybody OK? Christmas shopping, perhaps?
Cheers,
Chris :worried: :worried: :worried:
It is getting a little quiet lately.
What can be done to encourage a little more participation?
Good question Chris
@Papyrus , I am sitting at home reading. I watched the film "Lawrence of Arabia" a few weeks ago for the umpteenth time and decided to find out how accurate David Lean's film is. This has led me to borrowing from our local library the "Authorised Biography of TE Lawrence" by Jeremy Wilson. I am on page 28 of 1188! It is going to be long read...
Having flicked through the book, I think it will be fascinating.
Tim
I think the forum has quietened down appreciably in the last year. I visit every day, but often don't find anything to reply to.
@Moonglum Tim, many years ago my parents bungalow in Northampton was named 'Clouds Hill'.
'Clouds Hill' was a former residence of T.E. Lawrence and was in Dorset
@Papyrus Chris, I agree things have been quite quiet recently and am surprised by the lack of posts when I log on at times. I reckon it needs a good announcement to get everyone frothing again.
It was hinted there maybe one from Revolution as Ben was at the opening of Rails shop at Sheffield station yesterday, but I don't know what gauge or even if there was one
I'm building an Isinglas Gresley push-pull coach which I bought at the NEC National Festival of Railway Modelling last week. By coincidence, it scales out very close to the now ancient Westwater and Kirk non-corridors I already run. Only problem so far seems to be fitting the roof; the kit is otherwise excellent, but I need to file out the inside of one end to make it sit 'right'.
I might write it up when it's done.
Also fielding phone calls from Steve (of JS) about my potential new layout which he seems to be designing for me.......
Martyn
Yes indeed Mick
@Newportnobby , "Clouds Hill" is the title of the last chapter (45) of the book before the Appendices. Presumably, there is no connection with your family?
Tim
I'm glad it's not just my imagination.
There appear to be fewer people posting about their layouts or other projects. I'm as bad as anybody, but my excuse is I have always been a slow worker and like to have something positive to show. I hope we are not getting jaded, or thinking there is nothing new to say.
Cheers,
Chris
Quote from: Moonglum on November 30, 2025, 03:42:39 PMYes indeed Mick @Newportnobby , "Clouds Hill" is the title of the last chapter (45) of the book before the Appendices. Presumably, there is no connection with your family?
Tim
@Moonglum None, Tim. That was the name of the place when they bought it.
Quote from: Papyrus on November 30, 2025, 03:47:10 PMI'm glad it's not just my imagination.
There appear to be fewer people posting about their layouts or other projects. I'm as bad as anybody, but my excuse is I have always been a slow worker and like to have something positive to show. I hope we are not getting jaded, or thinking there is nothing new to say.
Cheers,
Chris
I had noticed too. I haven't really had much time or headspace for personal modelling projects of late, but do look in here to keep up with the "goss" and look for inspiration.
I guess many are inevitably busy on the runup to Christmas which may partly explain it, and there have been recent releases like the Farish V2 that have stimulated some discussion but overall it is untypically quiet...
Roy
Maybe mass S.A.D. (seasonal adjustment disorder) has set in :hmmm:
I've no stats but I get the impression that as posts here reduce they increase on the FB page where people want instant responses.
I'm not a fan of FB in this instance as after a couple of days you'll never find the post again as there's no search facility like there is here.
I have also noticed the lack of quality posts recently, nothing like the volume there was even 2 years ago. I too gave up on FB for the same reason - you find something useful then can't find it again. I'm now not on it atall, and do r miss it one bit.
Personally, I usually only post when I do something big, but I've been steadily plodding along with work on Brickmakers Lane. I'm currently working on the loco shed area, and now have the entrance ballasted and all roads working well. I've got a bit stuck on inspection pits and how to make the ballasting look like a pile of grey sludge. I'll put some stuff on when I get somewhere.
Dave
Busy modelling, and trying to buy a house.
And now sat in front of the computer in a penguin onesie :beers:
I tend to refer to it as faeces book, never used it, never likely to either.
Quote from: Dorsetmike on November 30, 2025, 05:33:23 PMI tend to refer to it as faeces book, never used it, never likely to either.
LOL, I associate it with X - conjoined as Twitface - I only use it (mostly only reading, not posting) where there is no other option, such as some slightly useful local info groups.
As to the quietness on here, there's not a lot to report from me at present. We are gradually plodding through the wiring on Lakeside but that's about it.
Quote from: EtchedPixels on November 30, 2025, 05:32:56 PMAnd now sat in front of the computer in a penguin onesie :beers:
Is that the cheap one with the
chocolate flavoured coating? ;)
I still check in daily, and it has been a bit quiet. I don't know if FB is a is taking traffic away (I don't do the social media thing.. its just digital poison). I haven't been posting because my life is beyond stressful right now (in a bad rather than busy way :( ) I guess this is when I should post more but my mojo is pretty low.
Still I did force myself to get a few trains, that haven't run in decades out onto the new European extension to Aberffilli. Track is temporary at the moment but I needed to just watch some trains run and just let nostalgia take me.
Left to Right, the TEE Rhinegold, TEE Rhinepfeil, TEE Ligure, I just let them run and drifted off into Oblivion
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/192-301125200905.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=156420)
Quote from: thebrighton on November 30, 2025, 04:58:09 PMI'm not a fan of FB in this instance as after a couple of days you'll never find the post again as there's no search facility like there is here.
Actually there is a search tool for Facebook groups (the usual magnifying glass icon). I sometimes suggest people try it to find previous discussions about a commonly asked question, to save people having to repeat their standard answers over and over.
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/5885-301125202228.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=156421)
I've been busy with other stuff too, just checking in to keep up with threads.
The other stuff mostly revolves around singing in choirs, which I guess I could find a group to post on, but have been too busy to even do that, let alone any modelling.
But as Arnie said, "I'll be back...!"
Mike
I don't mind it being quiet on here lately - less work for the mods ;)
I'm here every day but don't post often, probably because progress on the layout and stock is very slow.
I also started a small hO Inglenook layout in the summer holiday as a 'quicky' but it still isn't finished :hmmm:
When I start work on the N gauge layouts I will post some updates every now and then!
I never fail to check posts on Newton Kyme, many thanks
@Nbodger for sharing your work with us :beers:
And many others of course!
Jan
I am on here every day but lately not found much to get involved in. There used to be a couple of layouts I was keenly following but they have dropped off the radar.
Thankfully John (
@Trainfish ) still posts ref his excellent Longcroft fairly often.
Myself I have long since put my layout into storage and failed to start an exhibition replacement.
These days I tend to do wagon kits and decal work, both for myself and others.
I confess to some laziness as well, as I could write up my projects, but that means firing the laptop, whereas Faceache is just about ok on my mobile.
I do have one recently fished project in the form of my AYA barrier, which somebody has twisted my arm to do a NGS Journal entry for:
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/1081-301125212815.jpeg)
Plus I have a T-Trax module nearing completion (also sneak peak in the newsletter of the most recent journal), but I am saving that for when it's actually finished.
All in all, it's time and motivation after everything else the day demands that prevents me really throwing myself back into long form forum posts.
Skyline2uk
Must admit I haven't posted much in the last couple of years. My layout now having been around for ten years, and about as complete as it will probably get now, I haven't got much in the way of new content to share. These days I don't spend as much time 'on line' as I used to.
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/5731-301125214307.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=156424)
And ironically, this is now the busiest thread of the last week!! ;D
I don't mind a bit less quantity, so long as the quality is still there, and if I've nothing to add to the thread I don't tend to post, unlike some who seem to have a compulsion to post something, even if it takes them a lot of words to say little ::)
shall i start a new Ebay thread just to liven it up a bit ?
Like others I am on here most days, tend to post only if I can add something complimentary over and above the like/love icons. or disagree with something written.
Now Mid Albion is complete I am starting to think about my own layout which lay dormant for almost 2yrs, and whilst I am now running again, I am seriously looking to rebuild, and once that starts will post a lot more.
I do look at the Face Ache page every morning as well just to see what's going on there.
I like the photo of Andy RAs layout.
I have also noticed it being quieter lately. I usually only log on once or twice a week,and generally don't post unless I think I have something to say (Better to stay quiet and not show one's ignorance.)
I always enjoy Poppingham and the adventures of N Bodger.
I'm on a journey to the dark side which is why I haven't got much new to post here.
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/3123-011225060712.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=156426)
Will my current N gauge layouts survive or will they end up in the bin like Little Aller Junction and The Ridgacre Branch? Only time will tell......
Quote from: Bealman on November 30, 2025, 08:46:23 PMI don't mind it being quiet on here lately - less work for the mods ;)
Not that we're over busy anyway. Lately there have been no bots, and we seem to have no troublemakers of note whereas we've had quite a few in the past. I seem to move posts to a more suitable 'home' than anything else
Quote from: JulianO on December 01, 2025, 03:05:01 AMI like the photo of Andy RAs layout.
@JulianO Have you seen the ½hr YouTube vids?
Type in 'West Coast Main Line in N Gauge' in the YT search
I'm on a voyage to the dark side too. DCC sound in OO.
...and chat on RMWeb about Bulleid shunters with their outside frame connecting rods fitted back to front, and 4DD units that don't run a single circuit without derailing. Oh and Bulleid booster locos that derail too.
So it's not just us N gaugers having fun with locos and rolling stock!
Looking forward to Christmas when my Z21 can be unwrapped. And very pleased that Revolution's 313 is at least 3 months away!
Bob
Quote from: Newportnobby on December 01, 2025, 09:34:34 AMwe seem to have no troublemakers of note
I'm still here, don't worry :D
I've been checking in, and slowly working on things (only just finished my 6PAN!) but due to family things I've just been busy sorting that lot out.
An interesting topic.
I haven't posted to my Ferryhill layout/workbench thread for quite a while. In fact, my last post was on August 15, 2025.
There are several reasons for this, probably based on my main interests. I am not a great layout operator although I enjoy watching the trains go around. I am not really interested in shunting (too many things can go wrong!).
My main interests are fiddling around with locomotives and rolling stock. This includes building, upgrading, re-painting, and modifying these items. As I have mentioned in other posts, I regard Ferryhill as a sort of scenic test track for my rolling stock projects.
I do enjoy these little projects (and sometimes documenting my efforts). However, finding new projects has become more cumbersome for several reasons including:
1. The demise of the Shapeways' platform resulting in fewer 3D modelling opportunities. Yes, I know that some 3D models are now available from other sources but Shapeways had a large library of 3D prints conveniently available from the same source.
2. Although 3D print files can be purchased, I have not yet spent the time to research the availability of a person/organization here in the United States that could print these for me to a good quality. I need to work on this.
3. The closure of N Brass Locos, restricting the supply of all those detailing parts required for my interests.
4. The US tariff situation that has resulted in either (a) small suppliers no longer shipping to the US or (b) larger suppliers adding a tariff handling charge (in addition to the tariff).
I do still enjoy looking at the posts on the Forum, often checking in a couple of times a day (yes, I am retired). Some of the layout topics I particularly look out for include Poppingham, Hillsden, Newton Kyme, Dawlish Warren, Sprey Point to Teignmouth, Lostwithiel, James Street (among others), and various workbench threads.
However, I do miss posts by some members that seem to have gone quiet including Ross Tierney (who has explained his absence), Dr, Al, and Steve Dacosta (Stevie DC). I know Dr. Al still posts very helpful replies to members questions, but I used to enjoy his workbench thread as he always seemed to have something going on.
However, I have just ordered four heritage diesel/North Eastern Region books from Strathwood for my wife's Christmas present** which hopefully will inspire me to get back to modelling in the New Year.
Ian
** Clarification: These books are for a Christmas present that my wife will give to me, not vice versa.
Quote from: icairns on December 01, 2025, 10:31:39 PM... finding new projects has become more cumbersome for several reasons including:
1. The demise of the Shapeways' platform resulting in fewer 3D modelling opportunities. Yes, I know that some 3D models are now available from other sources but Shapeways had a large library of 3D prints conveniently available from the same source.
Shapeways are back for bespoke printing (in Eindhoven, Netherlands), but their Marketplace is now Thangs.com. Several of their UK N Gauge designers including Wageni, Recreation21 and I have (re..) uploaded designs, but speaking for myself, there's been little interest compared with downloading designs from Cults3D.com
Mike
Mike:
Thanks for the info. I am aware of both Thangs.com and Cults3D.com and I have seen Recreation21's designs available for download on the latter.
Are his prints available on Thangs as I have not been able to find them? (Probably due to my inability to search the site correctly).
Ian
Quote from: icairns on December 02, 2025, 12:58:37 AMMike:
Thanks for the info. I am aware of both Thangs.com and Cults3D.com and I have seen Recreation21's designs available for download on the latter.
Are his prints available on Thangs as I have not been able to find them? (Probably due to my inability to search the site correctly).
Ian
It seems I'm mistaken about that:
https://www.rue-d-etropal.com/3D-printing/3d_printed_designs.htm
Yes, the search facility is dire:
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/2947-021225093013.png) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/2947-021225093013.png)
I found Wageni's prints very easily however. I see he's cunningly included 'wageni' in each design's list of search tags - I shall do likewise!
Mike
Quote from: grumbeast on November 30, 2025, 08:10:28 PMI still check in daily, and it has been a bit quiet. I don't know if FB is a is taking traffic away (I don't do the social media thing.. its just digital poison). I haven't been posting because my life is beyond stressful right now (in a bad rather than busy way :( ) I guess this is when I should post more but my mojo is pretty low.
Still I did force myself to get a few trains, that haven't run in decades out onto the new European extension to Aberffilli. Track is temporary at the moment but I needed to just watch some trains run and just let nostalgia take me.
Left to Right, the TEE Rhinegold, TEE Rhinepfeil, TEE Ligure, I just let them run and drifted off into Oblivion
(https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/gallery/156/192-301125200905.jpeg) (https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?action=gallery;sa=view&id=156420)
Oddly, that European extension is what my Foreign Muck layout will look like when I start it next year. What a great line up of TEEs, and I love the townhouses. I'm gutted that Top Slots & Trains closed down, they were a great resource for Faller kits.
My layout is very basic - 2 small circuits and runs on DC. I look in on the forum about 3-4 times daily , but there are many topics that I don't understand (DCC , wiring). I usually contribute when I need an answer, but I do tend to skip topics that I don't understand . There appears to a core of contributors. Is the viewing number based on number of members logging on or of members viewing the individual post. But for me the forum is always there and usually has the answer.
The quality of RTR items and the massive output of 3D printed scenic and complimentary items has IMO diminished the need for exchanging hands-on info about railway modelling!
Even 2 years ago when I moved house it was becoming obvious that my original plans for modelling, involving collecting copious amounts of polystyrene packaging, plastic films and large pieces of cardboard, were rapidly becoming outdated. Visiting the Canterbury exhibition in Jan '24 and being offered a service to 3D print any building from a few pictures stopped me dead in my tracks. Here was a quick route to "perfect scale modelling" perhaps?
From there on I've revisited all the ideas for the layout, can't change the track or control panel as I'm too deep into DC and all the kit is DC. But the scenics and the rolling stock AND the locos???? Should I now be looking to "purify the stock" so that only the latest, most accurate and detailed items are in the running fleet?
Then if it truly is a scale 'model' shouldn't every building be a replica or at least an accurate representation of the prototype? Why is the farm in grey stone (from Metcalfe) when the prototype is sandfaced Norfolk bricks?
So much is being offered to us in the most convenient packages yet containing the most complex control items or constructions that we are becoming irrelevant in our very own hobby, descending into "train set" owners rather than modellers and becoming more reliant on funds than fun, consequently having less to talk about!
Or do you disagree ????
I do disagree, personally I think things like 3D printing makes people more likely to do modelling, not less. Those buildings still need painting and detailing and what not. Other forums are still very busy.
'Model railways', per se, is a broad church where all should be welcome. I physically struggle to scratchbuild anything and my electrics knowledge is virtually zero, but does that mean I'm just playing with a train set? At the end of the day, aren't we all when it boils down to it.
I happen to have the disposable income to pay for what I want, whether that's something RTR or paying someone to do something for me
The answer to the whole 3D modelling debate is simply 'depends'.
I have less that zero interest in it as I want to learn new physical skills, maybe learn to scratchbuild, recycle materials, slow down and enjoy my hobby.
If you want to build a perfect (or not) representation of whatever railway floats your boat using as much 3D printed stuff as you can eat, then go right ahead.
I think Rule 1 applies to your enjoyment of the hobby as well as what trains you run.
For me its getting more and more analog, slower, less exacting and simple. Its a balm for the modern world, not a part of it, I do it to escape 3D, AI, Tech, Whatever the next thing is.
G.
Quote from: Newportnobby on November 30, 2025, 03:26:16 PMI reckon it needs a good announcement to get everyone frothing again.
It was hinted there maybe one from Revolution as Ben was at the opening of Rails shop at Sheffield station yesterday, but I don't know what gauge or even if there was one
Apologies, only just seen this.
The announcement at Rails was the OO gauge Class 180 in EMR livery, which was already offered in N.
As to other announcements; tbh we have decided to make 2025 a year of consolidation and catching up; we took on board criticism of our making new announcements when long awaited models such as the Class 66 and 313s were not here.
(Note: I don't include the Class 120 in the list above as we were clear from the start that it would take significantly longer than most models due to the scarcity of drawings and lack of preserved examples. We are making slow but steady progress.)
cheers
Ben A.
Quote from: njee20 on December 04, 2025, 08:43:19 PMI do disagree, personally I think things like 3D printing makes people more likely to do modelling, not less.
Well, it's revolutionised my model making.
Since the Club bought a 3D printer I've turned out some 20 locos and over a hundred coaches, none of which I'd have been able to completely scratchbuild - I'd tried before (in Orribly Overscale) and failed completely.
I've also found it good for making the basic structures for buildings, to be finished off with brick/stone cladding, etc. and all sorts of odd little detail parts. I could have done the buildings from card, but probably not had them turn out as well as they did.
If anything, being able to 3D print has made me do more, certainly not less.
I do like a bit of 'thread drift'! I only wondered why the forum was so quiet!!
Fascinating.
Cheers,
Chris
Quote from: Newportnobby on December 04, 2025, 10:18:36 PM'Model railways', per se, is a broad church where all should be welcome. I physically struggle to scratchbuild anything and my electrics knowledge is virtually zero, but does that mean I'm just playing with a train set? At the end of the day, aren't we all when it boils down to it.
I happen to have the disposable income to pay for what I want, whether that's something RTR or paying someone to do something for me
The late Andy Calvert, ambassador for N and exceptional modeller always referred to his layouts as his "train sets" which included Calverdale, Nether Stowey and Moorcock Junction all quite superb models. If that was good enough for him, it should be for most people.
Incidentally I once read (possibly urban myth) that searching "moorcock" for his layout could sometimes have interesting and unexpected results! :laugh:
Roy
Quote from: Roy L S on December 05, 2025, 09:36:00 AMQuote from: Newportnobby on December 04, 2025, 10:18:36 PM'Model railways', per se, is a broad church where all should be welcome. I physically struggle to scratchbuild anything and my electrics knowledge is virtually zero, but does that mean I'm just playing with a train set? At the end of the day, aren't we all when it boils down to it.
I happen to have the disposable income to pay for what I want, whether that's something RTR or paying someone to do something for me
The late Andy Calvert, ambassador for N and exceptional modeller always referred to his layouts as his "train sets" which included Calverdale, Nether Stowey and Moorcock Junction all quite superb models. If that was good enough for him, it should be for most people.
Incidentally I once read (possibly urban myth) that searching "moorcock" for his layout could sometimes have interesting and unexpected results! :laugh:
Roy
I always thought Andy Calvert's modelling to be superb.
As for moorcock, I'm surprised the forum censor hasn't altered it ;D
Why would you censor the name of a fantasy and science fiction author?
Don't tell Elric!
Quote from: Ali Smith on December 05, 2025, 10:30:44 AMWhy would you sensor the name of a fantasy and science fiction author?
Now you're just taking the Michael :P
Quote from: Moonglum on December 05, 2025, 10:37:21 AMDon't tell Elric!
Ah yes Elric of Marylebone who made several Kings Cross :smiley-laughing:
But finally met his Waterloo!
Thanks for comment re "West Coast Mainline in N Gauge" Youtube videos, Newportnobby.
Sorry, only just saw your comment, but I have checked out a few.
In my case life got in the way,
That's called a new puppy that can't be trusted not to get into and destroy things.
Then....
I've a new layout under construction for the second time. I started building it, then the "Authorities" gave me use of a shed,aka wanting the mobile home for weaving.
This first required a rebuild of the shed internals, then a rebuild of the layout base boards.
Since then she acquired a 150 year old spinning wheel as a broken pile of bits, which I've rebuilt, it's fragile so I'm in the middle of building a travel case.
So that's 3 spinning wheels and 7 looms she has.
As for the new layout, I'm still terra forming, so there's not a lot to show yet, that wasn't helped by a redesign of the River Thurne flowing through i.
.