Hello,

I would like to build a micro layout in a wooden box with a hinged lid. The depth of the box I would prefer would be around 100mm. I have seen a selection of boxes for sale but I am not sure what size box to get. The very simple layout I have in mind is a straight forward oval with scenery. I want to be able to close the lid when not in use and make it small enough to either display on a desk or a shelf. The layouts I have built up to now have always been of a reasonable size but I have never tried to build a micro layout before so I would like some help with deciding what size box I would need. If anyone can suggest a suitable size box I would be very grateful.

Greg

Maybe Kevin @Phoenix can give you ideas and inspiration?
I don't know if you found his layout Windmill Hill but it's worth looking at 
https://www.ngaugeforum.co.uk/SMFN/index.php?topic=39207.1410

Jan

Hello Jan

Thank you for your reply.

I hadn't seen the layout but just had a look. Based on what he has done I think his layout is a bit too big. What I want to achieve is, for want of a better word, pocket sized. In my minds eye I think the box would need to be about the size of an average sized briefcase. I suppose what I need to know is how tight a curve I can get away with that will easily allow a small loco and small carriage or two goods vans to run unhindered and as I have never been good with understanding radiuses so I'm finding it difficult deciding on what box size I need.

Greg

I've seen a Youtube video of an N gauge loop & siding in a standard A4 boxfile. Used Kato 117mm radius curves and an 08 class shunter, I think. Can't find it now of course . . .

Edit: Found it!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pQeqIvIBb0

Have a look at this link of ian Redman's work

https://www.wsng.co.uk/Documents/Small%20N%20Working.WSNG.pdf

Hello,

Thank you for the link to Ian Redman. Very help.

Greg

Kato Unitrack is undoubtedly the best medium for such a compact layout with very robust sectional track down to 117mm radius. Personally I would opt for the 150mm radius. With up to date engineering quality models you would be surprised what goes round 150mm radius 

If you want something about the size of a briefcase, why not use a briefcase?

£28.09 : https://www.amazon.co.uk/Alassio-attache-briefcase-expandable-imitation/dp/B004VV4QMM/ref=pd_rhf_d_dp_s_pd_sbs_rvi_sccl_2_3/257-2857014-2307421?pd_rd_w=wCA30&content-id=amzn1.sym.172aea50-8ae8-47a0-805c-c0e1e5d5d710&pf_rd_p=172aea50-8ae8-47a0-805c-c0e1e5d5d710&pf_rd_r=J5P3RKNJ1YS952QHPN4R&pd_rd_wg=4bcet&pd_rd_r=78758fcc-412d-4fca-bdd7-d823efceb17c&pd_rd_i=B004VV4QMM&psc=1

Ross.

@Ross : he mentioned wooden boxes ... definitely more style than a "leather imitation" ...

- as radius, I think 150mm should be preferred. That makes the minimum box width about 340mm
- closing a 100mm high box: consider making a higher scenery element detachable. Same goes for the background.
- it also might be an idea to build the layout in the lid...you get a better view on the trains and scenery

I have just made a micro layout that fits into a mdf storage box that measures 320mm x 400mm by 190mm deep (it doesn't need this depth but I already had the box)

It has an oval of Kato 117mm radius track.

The layout is a removable insert that fits into the box which made it much easier to work on. I'm in the process of making another insert/layout for the box.

I found the Kato track very good to work with and would recommend it for ease of use. I can run Farish Austerity tanks, Poole Farish 08 shunter, Minitrix Dock tanks and a Tomix Percy. They pull a selection of Peco four wheeled wagons and a short wheel base brake van.

I'll try and post a photo.

PS The lighthouse folds down for storage.

Whatever you have handy.

My smallest one is in a shoebox (and no it's not a roundy-roundy layout!

http://zeniv.linux.org.uk/~alan/BootLaneGoods/

@silly moo very nicely done Veronica. Likewise @EtchedPixels The picture in your post is not showing for me, but having looked at the link, another nice layout. Just goes to show that you do not need a big space. 

Quote from: Gordon on June 26, 2023, 11:58:12 PM
Kato Unitrack is undoubtedly the best medium for such a compact layout with very robust sectional track down to 117mm radius. Personally I would opt for the 150mm radius. With up to date engineering quality models you would be surprised what goes round 150mm radius

Thank you for the advice on the track. I do have a reasonable amount of spare Kato track which I need to check. But as my luck normally goes I won't have any 150mm radius curves! 

Greg

Quote from: Gordon on June 26, 2023, 11:58:12 PM
Kato Unitrack is undoubtedly the best medium for such a compact layout with very robust sectional track down to 117mm radius. Personally I would opt for the 150mm radius. With up to date engineering quality models you would be surprised what goes round 150mm radius

Thank you for the advice on the track. I do have a reasonable amount of spare Kato track which I need to check. But as my luck normally goes I won't have any 150mm radius curves! 

Greg