For modeling steel cable, don't use sewing thread—it has stray fibers that look ratty, especially after painting. Instead, use beading thread. This material is thermally bonded, so there's no fraying. Example product: Beadalon WildFire .006 inch (0.5mm) thick, in black, light grey and other colors. Available at Michael's and most craft stores.

or why did I decide on Z-Scale model railroad.   

    I had been dabbling in N Gauge off and on since 1974, when I gave [ ... ]

I have always wanted to start a blog, but 'starting' it is usually the first stumbling block.  This is true with a 2' by 5' canvas behind me for a [ ... ]

A few days ago I received the set that I REALLY wanted in the first place - the 81862 30th Anniversary set from 2002.

For some inexplicable reason Marklin [ ... ]