A quick and simple method to get rid of the plastic new freight car look is to spray a light coat of Dullcoat.  This will take away the 'toy' train look of your layout.  If you don't have any Testor's Dullcoat you can use any Matte Finish spray to get the same results.  Just a simple spray to each side and let dry.  This can be done to any plastic kits also.

 This is Micro trains Line SD40-2 Santa Fe model which I customized with working ditch lights.

It's said that people who live with a pet being to look like each other. I wonder if it's true with layouts?

After a little advice with where to start, [ ... ]

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 [ ... ]