The most important factor that can transform a model railway layout from average to truly stunning is the quality of model railway trains scenery. Like anything else, the final result will be dependant on the amount of time, effort and skill one is prepared to give to the project. 

A keen eye is essential in order to achieve the exacting detail required to replicate a lifelike image of the real world.  

Every piece of the setup must be scaled, one to the other, to achieve perfection. This is absolutely essential when planning the overall concept. As the locomotives are scaled to the rails, so must the other items be so scaled, down to the smallest. Why spoil a great scenic setup by laying down track ballast that is oversized, or by seeing a human or animal figure, completely out of scale with the surrounding trees?  

Those who wish to customise the scenery for model railway trains have an opportunity to fantasize over the terrain they wish to create. Apart from a perfectly flat model railway setup which would not be that challenging, mountains, hills, valleys and inclines would make for a more visually pleasing vista. Constructing such scenerios would add to the sense of accomplishment experienced by the modeller. By using simple materials, which would not be that expensive, such as small meshed chicken wire, paper mashey, glues, cardboard and a little timber if necessary, impressive layouts can be achieved.

One of the most difficult problems to overcome is applying realistic colouring to the landscape. The subtle shade of green and brown are too often not achieved and is can spoil all that has been achieved.

One way of introducing finer merging colour shades to the scenery is to study photographs of the type of scene that you are attempting to recreate. The photographs will show the varying shades that you can replicate. If you have the facility to provide some form of controllable overhead lighting, it is possible to add more realism to the scene, by faking the time of day. The shadows cast by trees and other pieces, makes for marvellous reality. 

So you can understand that perfecting model railway scenery is no easy task and certainly not the final task that can be treated lightly if your wish to achieve your masterpiece. 

Talking of masters of scenery - here's one - Dave Frary!

His book called "How To Build Realistic Model Railroad Scenery" is in it's third edition. That speaks for itself!

Here's a quote from one of the many positive reviewers:-

"This is it; this is the one to get! Dave Frary has put under one cover all the tips and tricks, formulas, and product recommendations for every facet of model railroad scenery."