Assembling a model train set for the first time can be intimidating, but anybody can do it. Whether you're just building a display for the holidays or starting out on a life-long hobby, every layout starts with simple basics. Model railroading is a great family activity, and with a little adult help the kids can do this too.

This "quick and dirty" approach to getting started should have you running trains within the hour. Everything you do will be reversible so you can make changes and impro...