Learn how to build your first track layout and find the right parts for your train and your entire layout.
Since you’ve already found your way here, let me tell you a small story about tracks and trains. About the real ones, running through towns and villages, but also about those made of bricks - built day and night on a desk, on the floor, or on a large display layout. Because every track, even the smallest one, is the beginning of a journey. And every train, even the plastic one, carries a bit of magic within.
This guide was created so you can set up your first tracks without stress, understand how switches and automation work, and most of all - so you can create your own railway story. Whether you are building just for fun or for exhibitions.
1. Tracks
The straight tracks you can find in our offer include narrow, wide, dual gauge (narrow with wide), and single (Monorail) tracks in various lengths, from one stud* up to thirty-two studs.
*A stud is the characteristic raised bump on a brick that allows elements to connect, and at the same time it is a basic unit of measurement (1 stud = 8 mm) in the world of bricks, defining the dimensions of tracks, buildings, and entire layouts.
Curved tracks (turns) - first of all, you should consider what radius you need. There are many different radii available: [R24, R32, R40 (standard LEGO®), R56, R72, R88, R104, R120, R136, R152, R168 and R184].
For example, R40 means that you are creating a circle with a radius of 40 studs, and the diameter of the whole circle is 80 studs (measured from the track centerline).
The larger the radius, the more “gentle” the curve, which may be required for longer / bigger trains, allowing the train to travel faster - which is more fun to play with.
Correctly reading track markings makes layout navigation easier and improves the building experience:
Injection-molded tracks have the radius marking (e.g. R72) located on the underside at the back of the track.
3D-printed tracks have the radius marking placed on the edge of the track. In addition to the radius (R), they also include the function code for example:
SD - Siding Curve,
TC - Turnout Curve,
BC - Ballast Curve
as well as the part number.
2. Ballast Plates
Ballast, in the railway context, is a layer of stone / gravel under and around the tracks, and in the context of layouts, Ballast Plates is used to achieve a realistic appearance (and also speeds up construction).
Tip: For switches, crossings and junctions, choose the appropriate Ballast Plates for them (e.g. Ballast Plate for Double Slip Switch R40 for the Double Slip Switch R40).
Supports allow you to create stable inclines, elevated track layouts, and bridge structures.
The default vertical clearance in the Supports 2.0 system is approximately 11.8 cm, which fits all standard brick trains.If you require greater clearance (for example above roads, platforms, or lower tracks), you can easily increase the height by:
Adding bricks under the support foot
Extending the columns with 1-plate or 5-plate height elements
7. Track Planning
Trixbrix Tracks Library for BlueBrick Software: We have a complete library of our tracks for the BlueBrick track planning software available for download from within the program. The library was meticulously prepared by Matthias Runte, who runs a website dedicated to LEGO Trains Automation at: www.mattzobricks.com
How to install BlueBrick software and the Trixbrix Library: Download BlueBrick version 1.9.2 (or newer) from: www.bluebrick.lswproject.com BlueBrick is a powerful track planning software by Alban Nanty and is available free of charge. Follow these easy steps to enable the Trixbrix Library in BlueBrick.
8. Automation
Automation in railway layouts allows both manual and automatic:
Train detection
Switching tracks
Activating Boom Barriers
Controlling LED lighting
Tip: Even if you don’t want full automation right away, plan for the possibility of automation later (for example, leave channels or empty spaces under the layout base for wires, etc.) - this will greatly simplify future expansion.
3-pin automation cable
This cable is used to connect components in the Trixbrix automation system 1.0. It contains three wires, each with a specific function:
Brown - Ground (GND).
Red - Power.
Orange / Yellow - SignalMake sure the wires are connected in the correct order to ensure proper and safe operation.
9. Trains
Although we specialize mainly in tracks and accessories for them, you will also find train-related elements in our offer.
A layout is the entire scene in which the track system operates - it includes not only tracks and trains but also scenery: roads, pavements, buildings, details, lighting, etc.
In our offer you will also find detailing accessories printed using UV technology.
