Watch Episodes of The Hills Line with James McNab
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Model railroading, from a retail perspective, largely remains a cottage industry. While there are a growing multitude of large hobby conglomerates, most of the smaller items you see on layouts come from mom-and-pop operations. Those small businesses are helping me detail warehouses on The Hills Line, and it's always fun to see how these little … Continue reading In The Details
On the IAIS Grimes Line I was able to make significantly-sized photo backdrops work for non rail-served buildings, notably Reams Foods in Clive. For The Hills Line, I'm finding better success with building flats or partial structures. I'm chalking up the change to the difference in industries between the two locales. I used Pikestuff building … Continue reading A Thicker Backdrop
With the signature scene of The Hills Line complete, it's time to switch gears and model some of the industrial aspects of the industrial spur. The portion of Iowa City south of downtown is a motley collection of commercial and light-industrial warehouses. This is a change from the IAIS Grimes Line, which I always referred … Continue reading Change of Pace
I will admit something. I don't find enjoyment in modeling locomotives and freight cars. There are obviously excellent examples of those that do, and they deserve our kudos. But it doesn't appeal to me. Locomotives and cars are one part of a larger aspect to model railroading. I can play chess with rocks and sticks … Continue reading Conversation Starter
The Hills Line 