Progress Report 02.02.13 - More Base Scenery

For the last few days, I have been working on thoroughly cleaning the layout room and organizing all my stuff.  Good gosh!  There is a lot in that train room!

While pulling out pieces of styrofoam and lumber from under the layout, I decided why not go ahead and install them.  There is only a few places left to install the base scenery.  I added foam to the back of Bureau Wye, and the corner to the left of the wye.  I also added in foam behind the house down on the Peoria branch.  I only have two small sections at the base of the peninsula on the upper and lower level.  That probably won't be done for a while due to the fact I need to fix some wiring in that area.

My goal is to get the new areas lathered up with plaster and plant some grass before the video retake next Saturday.

Progress Report 01.31.13 - New lighting

This evening, I had a little bit of time to work on the layout between other tasks.  I installed the canopy and LED lights over LaSalle and Utica, IL.  I found that the back corner over by Peru was still dark.  This is the area absent of a canopy due to the LCD screen.

I took a break to pick up the kids.  Upon my return, it dawned on me that the LCD was installed on a swing-arm mount.  I pulled the LCD all the way out and installed a 1x3 behind it.  I had to cease work as it was bed time for the kids.  I'll jump back on it tomorrow.  I'm on quest to end dark lighting spots on the layout.

Once I add a blue backdrop on this scene, I believe it will really light up.

Before and After pics from tonight's progress:

Before...

After....

Video Possibly Delayed

I know this will make some fans sad, but it appears I broke Ben's camera.  The camera is throwing up codes indicating that it is terminal.  Complete Sadness!  The video was lost.  A re-shoot has been scheduled for February 9th.

Take two!

At least, maybe I can get the new lighting system installed by then.

Progress Report 01.28.13 - New Lighting

Well, there really wasn't any progress on the layout today, but I did have a thought.  I plan on installing LED lights over the upper peninsula and over the LaSalle/Utica benchwork.  I purchased a few extra brackets originally (they are now discontinued at Home Depot).  I will try to pick up some lumber this week so I can ensure installation before the next operating session.  I have one 16ft section of LED lights left which I think might be enough.