Welcome again, LilBanshee99!
Your board size is close to the size of the layout depicted in "N scale model railroading", which is indeed good for us'new bees', I think.(FYI:The price listed above is very good, depending on shipping...retail is $18.95!!)The layout plan (clear photo ilustration and directions) uses a solid core interior door, which is about 3 1/2 feet by 7 feet...so, widen it a bit, and you've got your track plan. To get a good start, from what I've seen ( quite a bit, in a short time), this is a perfect book for a beginner.
One other thing..start with a small part, like the oval..get a train running.. then work on the spurs and sidings, hills , valleys, the little town..it's pretty easy to lift the track sections to add sections..just be sure to use either foam insulation, like the book says, or get some 'sound insulation board'..available at Home Depot, usually. It's a fiber board...makes setting and pulling track nails so much easier, I garontee!!( I shoulda' listened to shamus
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The foam insulation used for the book layout is made by Dow and is called 'Styryofoam brand, square edge, extruded foam insulation' this one our local Home Depot does not carry.I finally found it at "Yardbirds"..a locally based chain (Northen Ca.) You could call around and ask for it by name..Check with the Train /hobby shops in your area..also..check out the local Model Railroad clubs..that's how I found the foam..A WORD of CAUTION..the yellow 'ridgid foam insulation is NOT usable as a substitue..it is very crumbly and the dust will wreck your lungs, eyes, and get anyone else who uses the basement very upset with you...I cut up and threw away the sheet I bought!!!
Hope this helps
Come on back if you have any specific questions..I'm sure you'll get plenty of good ideas, advice and comments..I sure have! Oh..have you checked out the 'Academy' here on 'the-gauge'? lots of good articles...read the HO slanted material as well..lots of basics are usefull no matter what scale you're modeling..I'm learning more every day!!!
Bye now
VGN
(Yay! Sun's out!
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[This message has been edited by Virginian (edited 04-05-2001).]