Custom Model Railroad Work
Scale Rail 3D offers custom design and 3D printing services for model railroaders looking for parts that don’t exist commercially or need to be adapted for a specific layout, industry, or operation.
Custom work is focused on practical, layout-ready models — not novelty items or mass production. This HO Scale workshop was custom designed and 3D printed.
What Can Be Customized
Custom projects may include:
- Freight car loads sized for specific cars
- Industrial or lineside details
- Structures or structure components
- Modified versions of existing Scale Rail 3D products
- Parts designed to fit a specific footprint or scene
If you have reference photos, sketches, or measurements, those are extremely helpful.
Scale & Compatibility
Custom work is typically designed in HO scale, but most other scales are possbile depending on complexity. (sorry, I don’t do Z or T scale) All custom models are designed with painting, weathering, and your layout use in mind.
How the Process Works
- Initial Inquiry
Contact us with a description of what you’re looking to create, including scale, approximate size, and intended use. - Feasibility Review
We’ll review the request and confirm whether the project is a good fit. - Design & Approval
If accepted, a design is created and reviewed before printing. - Printing & Delivery
Once approved, the item is printed and shipped like standard products.
Important Notes
- Custom work availability is limited and may vary based on current workload
- Pricing depends on design complexity and print requirements
- Not all requests can be accommodated
- Custom items are non-returnable once approved and paid for
Request a Custom Project
If you’re interested in a custom model or adaptation, please get in touch with a brief description of your project. We’ll let you know what’s possible and the next steps.
About Scale Rail 3D
Scale Rail 3D creates highly detailed, 3D printed model railroad parts designed for realism, durability, and ease of finishing. Every item is developed with real-world operations and layouts in mind — not just display models.
The designs offered here are created by a lifelong model railroader and layout builder who understands how small details contribute to believable scenes and smooth operations. Many of the products sold on Scale Rail 3D are first designed and tested on an active HO scale layout before being made available.
Designed for Model Railroaders
Scale Rail 3D focuses on parts that add practical realism to freight operations, industrial scenes, and layout details. Each piece is designed to be:
- Accurate in HO scale proportions
- Easy to paint and weather
- Strong enough for handling and operation
- Compatible with common freight cars and layout settings
Whether you’re building a small switching layout or a large operating railroad, these parts are designed to blend naturally into your scenes.
From Layout to Workbench
Many of the models sold here are also used on the Trenton Model Railway, a long-term layout project that explores realistic operations, industries, and scenery. This real-world use helps guide design decisions and ensures that products perform as expected once they’re on the rails.
If you’re interested in seeing these items in action, you can explore the layout and build process at BuildingTrenton.com.
Independent, Small-Batch Production
Scale Rail 3D is an independent, small-scale operation. Products are printed in high-detail resin and shipped carefully packaged, ready for finishing and installation.
There are no subscriptions, memberships, or mass-produced imports — just thoughtfully designed parts created for fellow model railroaders.
Questions or Custom Needs?
If you have questions about a product, scale compatibility, or are interested in a custom design, feel free to get in touch. Feedback from other modelers often inspires future designs. This very large pipe load was custom designed and 3D printed.
