It’s the small details that bring a train to life.  It’s called greebling  - things like grab handles, grilles and vents, roof details, undercarriage bits, etc.  These additional decorations can transform a boring train into an exciting train. The application of grab handles and roof decorations is shown in Figure 9.



Another construction technique that enhances a model is the half-stud offset.  The half-stud offset “jumper” plate is an excellent way to add texture, or “relief”, to a model.  In this example (Figure 10), a train door is accentuated by insetting the door by ½-stud. This visual cue tells the eye, “hey, that must be a door.” It is a very effective technique to add character and style to a model.



Playful Considerations
A great combination is a great model that is great to play with. One way to add play value to a model is by tiling the layer of the train car just below the roof. This permits the roof to be removed and allows easy access to the interior for minifigs and cargo (see Figure 11).



With access to the interior, fulfill the interior with details that any well-traveled minifig would appreciate:  chairs, tables, lamps, coffee, toilets…anything you can imagine.  As an example, this locomotive has a detailed engine as shown in Figure 12.