In a world of distractions, it is important to make special connections. Sadly, there are some who have forgotten or set aside their passion for model railroading. At T and K Hobby, we want to keep the tradition alive and revive model railroading passions, while helping families and friends build stronger connections. 

Model railroading can benefit younger generations through the following: 

1. Teaching many personal attributes such as patience, focus, determination, and the importance of following through with a task.
2. Providing an opportunity to have a personal connection with someone where phones and other distracting technology can be set aside.
3. Lasting memories can be made as you create a model railroading masterpiece and it can live on for future generations to admire.
4. Instilling of an appreciation for a beautiful hobby that inspires creativity in the young and old.

This just scratches the surface of the benefits found in the model railroading hobby. The enjoyment and memories made will not only last your lifetime, but if you share your passion with future generations, it will go on and on indefinitely. You simply need to fuel the heart a dreamer with the same passion that has burned in you, as a train enthusiast. 

We are certainly enthusiasts at T and K Hobby and we encourage you to share your love of model trains with those you hold near and dear. Help us keep the model railroading tradition alive and thriving!

Click here to begin building a special connection through model railroading.

There is nothing quite like sitting around the Christmas tree on a cold winter night, lights twinkling, a cozy fire crackling in the fireplace, cheery carols playing, watching a delightful  Christmas train set circle the tree. Train sets have become a wildly popular Christmas decoration, and in many families, it is a treasured tradition to gather together and set up the Christmas train set. We all recognize the charm and nostalgia of a tiny, life-like train zipping around the tree in an endless loop.

Do we know how this beloved holiday tradition began?

There is nothing set in stone in American history stating when it began or what exactly spurred the train set around the Christmas tree, but we can look back on certain events to better understand how this became a beloved tradition. In the early 1900s, well-known manufacturer Lionel began producing the first toy trains. These trains were coveted among children at the time, and became a much sought-after Christmas gift. Once the children opened these delightful trains, they naturally saw the Christmas tree as the perfect place to set up their newfound gem for the world to see.

Another theory is that toy trains evoked a nostalgic feeling in people that they associated with the Christmas season. Long ago, long distances were nearly always traveled by train, and the busiest time of the year was Christmas. People took the train to visit relatives during the holidays that they didn't see during the rest of the year, thus creating a strong connection between trains and Christmas.

Jim Morrison

A train enthusiast and curator of the National Christmas Museum in Pennsylvania, has done extensive research regarding this tradition. He believes the tradition eventually stemmed from old customs of setting up villages under Christmas trees. In the mid-1800s, families often created village scenes under the Christmas tree with homes and buildings that represented their own towns. These arrangements became more elaborate as cast-iron, toy-sized buildings such as fire stations began earning a prized spot in the Christmas villages. Once model trains were created, they naturally fit in with the growing villages under the tree.

Whatever the reason, train sets have become as much a staple to Christmas decorations as stockings and mistletoe. Even today's children, with their noses glued to their tablets or cell phones, aren't immune to the charm of a captivating toy train humming around the base of their Christmas tree.

To begin bringing your model train dreams to life, click here.

Affordable Train Sets

Unbeatable savings on layout materials and accessories.

Shop Now

Photo from The Polar Express on IMDb

Problem Solving Skills Are Taught.

When your child plays with a toy train set, he or she has to troubleshoot the various ways to put the track together so it runs without obstacles. They also have to teach themselves how to organize the trains in a way that will increase the train's ability to run smoothly. It will take time for your child to learn this, but the lessons learned will last a lifetime.

Boosts Creativity and Imagination.

Your child's imagination is his or her only limitation when it comes to assembling a train set. There are various, original ways to set up the track and arrange accessories. They can create stories in their head and think of different scenarios for each of the trains. They can even bring in other toys of their own to join in on the fun!

Reinforces Fine Motor Skills and Dexterity.

Building a town or train station using small objects that often come with a train set reinforces your child's fine motor skills. Reinforcing this basic skill is so important because overtime it will help your child get dressed, draw, write, cut, and so forth.

This Christmas, opt for a toy train set as a gift for your child. This will not only give them a lifetime of lessons learned, but it will keep the time-honored tradition of trains at Christmas time alive.

Click here to begin an exciting model railroading hobby.

By owning a model railroading set, you're participating in a rich tradition with a history that goes back centuries. 

Model railroading has such a deep and interesting history that they've existed longer than trains have run! According to research from an antique shop, the first model trains were built in 1784. These trains had a specific purpose: designers carefully built them to scale to understand the mechanics of trains before building them at full size.

In the early days of model trains in the 1800s, they were indistinguishable from toy trains. Builders initially crafted these trains from lead and without train tracks, both factors that made them impossible to push. By 1875, tinplate models, made of metal, became more popular in the US and Europe. Today's model trains are much more similar to the tinplate models.

A New Hobby is Born

Photo from History of Lionel Trains

Joshua Lionel Cowen established Lionel. He was the son of Jewish immigrants who moved to America after the Civil War. Trains were innovations in transportation. One of the most notable periods of railroads was in 1869. This was the year of the Golden Spike's establishment. The Golden Spike connected the Union Pacific and Central Pacific Railroads.

Cowen made the first true model railroad in 1901, which ran using electric power. Originally, he sold them to stores, and they put them in their window displays to attract customers. The trains became so popular that customers and the stores started approaching Lionel trains to buy their own personal models.

Cowen received the patent for his model train brand in 1899. With $12,000 in his possession, Lionel came into fruition two years later. Ever since, model trains have had a rich tradition among parents and children. They also contribute to retail chain marketability, especially during the holiday season. The most notable store which showcased Lionel trains was FAO Schwarz. This high-end toy store was located in Midtown Manhattan and was well-known for their hobby toys and made famous by the Tom Hanks film, Big.

Collectors of toy trains delight at the continued output of Lionel long after Cowen's death in 1965. Today, model trains have a new flare. Often, you will find trains with logos from Coca-Cola, John Deere, MLB, etc. Every model train enthusiast owes their undying love of this hobby to Joshua Lionel Cowen.

Every Hobby Needs a Magazine

The first magazine on model railroads, Model Railroader, began publication in 1934. This magazine continues to exist today. As model railroading emerged as a mainstream hobby, companies began to make model railroads more carefully, in the specific scales we sell today. This differentiates model train sets from train toys for children, which manufacturers do not craft as accurately.

Today, model trains continue to be a popular hobby, even though we no longer commute on trains as often as we once did. Model railroads continue to become more sophisticated and technologically savvy than ever, while maintaining their original charm.

Click here to begin an exciting model railroading hobby.

Family Activity

Building model trains is a fun activity for anyone at any age. Photo by Minnesota From Scratch

One of the most appealing aspects of building model railroads is its ability to close generational gaps. Grandfathers, fathers, and mothers introduce younger boys and girls to their favorite pastime and suddenly share a common interest. Sometimes our fast-paced lifestyles can make it difficult to even share a family dinner, so engaging in a long-term family activity is a precious opportunity to spend quality time with one another. Everyone can find a particular job to do that interests him or her, working together to create something wonderful.

Learn New Skills

It takes time, research and attention to detail to create a realistic model train set.

Building a model railroad requires a broad range of skills, and there is much to learn for the novice hobbyist. Basic woodwork and carpentry, electrical wiring and long-term project planning are all necessary when building a model railroad, as well as problem-solving and research skills. Few activities offer the chance to develop such a variety of essential skills and make up a large part of the appeal for hobbyists of all ages.

Artistic Expression

Building a model railroad is like a big art project using a variety of different mediums.

Creativity and imagination is a must when building model railroads, even when re-creating actual geographic locations. Painting scenery and backdrops, weathering cars and creating landscape features all help define model railroad building as a 3-D art form. There is a deep satisfaction to be found in artistic expression, in 'making' things and creating something from nothing.

Long-Term Project

There's always something more to add!

Part of the attraction in building a model railroad lies in its continuously unfinished aspect. There is always something else to paint, something else to build or improve upon. The long-term nature of building a model railroad runs counter to the culture of instant gratification in our society. It teaches the value of a job well done, and a sense of deep gratification comes out of constantly improving something over months and even years of work. Just as you are never too young or too old to take up model railroad building as a hobby, you also never really reach "the end" of the project.

A Social Hobby

Large model railroad at festival in Saint Petersburg, Russia.

Many people mistakenly believe that building model railroads is a solitary hobby, only for people who like to work alone. This is simply not true! There is a vibrant social life within the model railroad community, no matter where you live. Clubs and associations offer a great way to share stories, collect valuable tips, and build relationships with people who share your interests. People from all walks of life participate in competitions, conventions, and meetings, and the universal appeal of building model railroads means you are guaranteed to meet interesting folks.

Finally, perhaps the biggest reason building model railroads is such an enduring hobby - it's fun!

Click here to find everything you need to begin building your own model railroad.

Non-powered train sets for toddlers are available and easy to put together.

The main guideline for choosing a child's first train set is to make sure you're buying what's appropriate for the child's interests and capabilities. It's all too easy for a train set to conform more to what dad or granddad is interested in, and this may or may not be appropriate for your child. Here are some other tips on choosing your child's first train set.

Toy Trains or Model Trains?

Model trains started out as toys, albeit expensive ones. They were well made and could stand up to a lot of "play," plus they were realistic looking. Today, model trains are more about realism and details, and they may or may not be able to withstand a young child's enthusiastic play.

Toy trains, on the other hand, are designed with kids in mind. They may look less realistic, and they may not be electric, but they can be ideal for the preschooler who doesn't yet have the fine motor coordination necessary to use electric model trains. And of course, when train sets include tiny parts and other small objects, they may not be appropriate for the youngest train enthusiasts.

Train Sets for Preschoolers

Most preschoolers start playing with non-electric trains that use wooden tracks that are easy to arrange and connect together, as well as train cars that are easy to connect using simple magnets. While most basic sets have enough tracks to create an oval, extension tracks are relatively easy to find so your preschooler can make more complicated layouts like figure-eights. Though children can vary considerably in terms of manual dexterity and maturity (even within the same family), electric train sets should generally be reserved until a child reaches age 6 to 8.

Size Considerations

With electric trains, you have a choice of many different sizes, from tiny N scale sets to big G scale trains and several sizes in between. The "classic" electric train set size is O scale, and with adult supervision, kids in approximately the 6- to 8-year age range can operate these, while 10-year-olds can generally run them safely on their own.


Most 10-year-olds are capable of setting up and running electric train sets.

A general rule of thumb is that the younger the child, the larger the train, but the amount of room you have influences size choice too. Not everyone has the room for a big G-scale set, and for kids who are old enough, interested enough, and who have the necessary knowledge and fine motor skills, a smaller scale like HO or even N scale may be the best selection.

Extending Train Layouts

Most basic train sets come with an oval of track, which is a great start. But kids can become bored with repeatedly running a train around a plain oval. You can add to their tracks without spending a lot of money and add significant interest in the process. And you can buy a few new track pieces at a time, or the children can save up their allowance to add to their track pieces gradually.

When you buy additional track, understand which specific layouts can be made with the additional track pieces. You don't necessarily have to create the exact track plans recommended, but if you know, for example, that the track pieces you bought are designed to create a turnout, you can help your child create interesting layouts, and get them "unstuck" if they have difficulty.

Choosing your child's first train set doesn't have to be intimidating or expensive. Train enthusiasts understand that what works for the rambunctious kindergarten student isn't going to be interesting to the meticulous 10-year-old. And they understand that although electric trains can become expensive, for many kids they're all about having fun. Consider your child's age and fine motor skills, your space limitations, and your budget before buying, and you're sure to bring home a train set that will provide plenty of healthy diversion.

Trains are fun for any age! 
Click here to see what T&K Hobby has for your little ones.

Even those who have worked with model railways for a while may struggle to keep model train scales straight: HO, S, N, O... It starts to look a bit like a chemical formula after a while. Based on information from the National Model Railroad Association, here's a quick and easy breakdown of scale differences in model trains.

Model Train Scales:

• O: Also known as the 1/4 inch scale. Model trains at this scale are created at a 1:48 ratio of the real thing.
• S: Introduced by American Flyer, this scale is 1:64 actual size.
• HO: The 1/8 inch scale. This scale is roughly 1:87 actual size.
• TT: This scale is a 1:120 ratio.
• N: This scale is a 1:160 ratio.
• Z: The smallest of the standard scales, Z has a ratio of 1:220.

Besides scale differences, there are also differences in gauge, which does not necessarily correlate to the scale. In short, while scale is represented by a ratio of the model train to a life-size train, gauge refers to the distance between rails. Like scale, gauge is usually identified in a standardized way.

Track Gauges:

• Normal track gauge is 4'-8 1/2". If no gauge designation is given in the name (e.g. just O, N, etc.), this is the default distance between rails.
• Narrow gauge is identified by a lowercase "n" followed by a number indicating the distance between rails. For example: On3 would mean O scale, narrow gauge, 3' between rails. On2 would be read as O scale, narrow gauge, 2' between rails.

There are additional nuances to these categories and proportions, but this gives you the basic differences in model train scales. This will cover the most common model train sets, and hopefully it has given you a solid understanding to get started in this exciting and engaging hobby.

Now that you have a basic knowledge of model train scale;
click here to find a variety of different scale trains.

Model trains represent a hobby that lasts a lifetime!

The Hobby Never Grows Old

It's not uncommon to find people who have worked on model trains for decades. This is the case with Howard Zane, who has been passionate about this hobby for thirty years. For him, it started with reading captivating articles about the hobby in a magazine.

Zane started small and now has a staggeringly impressive display that takes up his entire basement. Along the way, he has become an expert at modeling, electronics, and other skills required to bring his vision to life. These are skills that train enthusiasts develop over time, which only adds to the possibilities of what they can do with their displays. When it comes to a hobby that will keep rewarding you year after year, there is nothing quite like model trains.


The childhood joy of playing with toy trains doesn't have to go away as kids become adults.

It Brings Families Together

Sometimes, people imagine the world of model trains as a lonely one. And while it can be a perfectly fun solo hobby, it is also absolutely perfect for bringing families together. For instance, the kind of children who are captivated by the idea of creating virtual worlds in video games like Minecraft are blown away by the opportunity to create something tangible and real with their own two hands. Train enthusiast John Cicero brought his son into the hobby, and now the son dreams of becoming an engineer, which stems entirely from the joy he has received from working on model trains. The father and son team has spent years showing off their complex creations at annual holiday shows, which helps showcase that model trains provide a family bonding opportunity like no other.

The More You Learn, the More You Can Do

Those new to the hobby of model trains must first master the basics. These include figuring out the size of the display, the size of the trains themselves, and the time period of the display (such as a wild west theme or something more modern). However, as your skills grow, entirely new worlds open up to you regarding creating and painting your own scenery, mastering the intricacies of remote control trains, and learning in-depth secrets about adding electronic lights and other features to your displays.

Typically, people are drawn to this hobby because they enjoy the intricacies involved with bringing a world to life. Fortunately, there are always more amazing skills to learn which provide new ways to add depth and immersion to your miniature world, and your local hobby store can help you make your vision complete!


There is no limit to the worlds you can create!

The joy of model trains will last your entire life, but you have to take those first steps before your journey can begin. Fortunately, you don't have to take those steps alone. T & K Hobby is happy to assist you in bringing your model train dreams to life today!

To begin bringing your model train dreams to life, click here.

There could be a variety of reasons why your model train stutters or doesn't run at all.

Model train hobbyists invest a lot of effort into building and running their coveted models. Unfortunately, sometimes problems can creep up that can compromise the operation of the prized vehicles. Thankfully, there are ways to troubleshoot these issues to make sure the model train is back up and running smoothly again.

Here are 3 things that can potentially go wrong with your model train, and how to troubleshoot them.

1. The Train Occasionally Stops Running

There could be a few reasons why your model train suddenly shakes and shimmies on occasion while jetting along its tracks. For starters, identify if there is an issue with the layout or a particular train. Give a locomotive a test run around every section of the track. Try to pinpoint if there is an exact spot along the track that seems to have problems, then test run all your trains over it.

Do you notice that the issue happens with many different trains, or is this problem limited to just one particular train? If the problem presents itself only in one single train, then more than likely that specific train has an issue that needs to be resolved. If that's the case, consider having it repaired by a professional. It could be that the train has a flaw known as 'split-gears' or is experiencing an engine burn out. Whatever the case may be, a good repair shop should be able to fix the problem.

On the other hand, if the issue seems to be exhibited on all of the trains, perhaps there's an issue with the track. If that's the case, you may need to simply clean the track. Particles like dust, dander, cat hair, and sawdust can interfere with the movement of the trains. Wiping the tracks and train wheels with white spirits, rubbing alcohol or specialized cleaners from the local hobby store can clear this debris and help your train run smoothly without juddering.

2. The Train Won't Stay on the Track

Occasional or frequent train derailment can be caused either by the train or the track. If you notice that it is the same locomotive that derails at various spots along the track, it's likely the train itself that is experiencing problems. There could be an issue with the power or wiring in this case. Loose power connections will cause a variety of problems, including sluggish movement to no movement at all. This seems to be more common with layouts that are not permanent and are regularly rearranged.


Sometimes a thorough cleaning of the track and the train's wheels are all that's needed to get the locomotive running smoothly.

Check to see if the wires are securely connected to the track and the power supply. Look for any loose or tight wiring, or any split ends. Make sure that all wires are connected to the appropriate terminals. If that doesn't solve the problem, a specialist may be needed.

On the other hand, if many locomotives are derailing in the same spot, there's probably something wrong with the track. Be careful how the track is put together and laid out, and make some small adjustments to see if a change in layout alleviates the issue. Or else, a thorough cleaning job may be all that's warranted.

3. The Train Doesn't Run at All

If the train isn't running at all, there could be an issue with the engine, electrical wiring, or power supply. Your challenge is to figure out which of these components is the culprit.

Check to see if there is a broken power supply, or if you simply forgot to turn on the electrical outlet. A complete shutdown could be caused by an electrical circuit short or a break in the power supply. In that case, you might be better off calling an electrical specialist if dealing with wiring is not your strong point.

The Bottom Line

Issues with derailments and inadequate train movement happen from time to time. Regular maintenance and occasional troubleshooting are all part and parcel to the hobby. Be patient, and investigate every possible avenue to uncover the source of the issues. The more you deal with these issues, the better you'll become at both identifying issues and possibly solving them on your own. In the worst case scenario, call in the experts to make sure your trains and track get the care and attention required.

Visit us at T&K Hobby 
for a tremendous selection of model train sets and supplies.

The process of designing a model train layout can seem overwhelming, and you may not know how to begin. So, we have compiled a simple list of the decisions you need to make at the very beginning. Completing these essential tasks will give you a solid platform to build off as you continue your journey into the world of model railroads.

#1: Choose a Theme

Before you do anything, think about the particular theme you would like your model train layout to have. This should stem directly from your own personal interests. Perhaps you envision log transport trains navigating dangerous mountain passes. Or coal trains crossing trellises over lakes, delivering to steel mills and cities. Sprawling cityscapes can offer modern passenger trains, moving people from city to city. Whatever your theme, it will give your railroad a purpose, a destination that sparks your interest and has personal significance.

#2: Decide Your Location

Do you prefer cities to mountains, or deserts to pastures? A mix of different locales is always a fun option. Maybe you'd like to build a specific length of track in an exact location. Nailing down a "where" for your model train layout helps to determine a variety of other factors. It's a great way to express your personal creativity, and can even help you to decide what kind of train you are going to run. You know what they say - location is everything!

#3: Pick a Season

This step has a huge overall effect on your model train layout and is often underestimated. Deciding the season can help determine a broad color scheme, and will narrow down the list of materials you need. Together with a location, a season will establish the type of foliage, ground cover and terrain features you can include in your model train layout. Mountainous winter scenes will require different materials than summer fields, or autumn forests. It's also an excellent opportunity to showcase your creativity and attention to detail. 

#4: Select an Era

Most hobbyists designing a model train layout are aiming for realism. Choosing a historical time frame can help determine the theme and/or location if you are having trouble. It can also help decide which trains you are going to run on your layout. For example, if you choose a 1920's theme, you probably won't be running diesel trains. Whatever you decide, knowing "when" your model train layout exists will give it authenticity and help to highlight your other layout decisions.

#5: Collect Proper Materials

The final step of building your model train layout is choosing the right materials for the job. From paints, powders and plastics to expertly crafted scenery components, using quality materials will raise your model train layout to the next level of craftsmanship.

Visit T&K Hobby to find all the materials you need 
to create a top-notch model train layout!