ScaledRailStart with the space and your goals.
The NMRA guide starts with your goals, time, space, and budget. Decide how you want to run the trains.
Measure the room. Mark doors and other areas that must stay accessible.
Draw the track plan to scale.
The NMRA guide warns that freehand plans can overstate how much track fits. Use the actual turnout and curve sizes.
Allow space for buildings and scenery. Check that you can reach every part for maintenance.
Check the plan before you build.
The NMRA guide describes physical or digital models as ways to check clearances and the scene. Revise the plan when a problem appears.
Open the catalog budget tool ↗
Source: nmra-layout. Read 2026-11-15.
Questions from the workbench.
Why draw the plan to scale?
A scale drawing helps show the space that curves, turnouts, buildings, and access need.
What should I measure first?
Measure the available space. Mark doors and areas that must stay accessible.