STL RPM Learning Stations

Learn advanced techniques

St. Louis RPM offers stations to learn advanced modeling techniques from some of the industry's best companies. Learn how to weather your freight cars, build track and switches, install sound systems in locomotives, and other advanced processes in a one-on-one atmosphere with a hands on approach to modeling. Below are 6 of the Learning Stations available at the 2023 event.

The Weathering Shop

Shop Crew

"Weather" you want to have mild or extreme weathering on your models, there are many techniques and products available, with which we will try to enlighten you at the Weathering Shop table. We'll be doing some hands on weathering, so bring a model, sit down, and get dirty!

Becoming Better at Spray Painting

Mid-Tenn Custom Painting

Some say painting models is a lost art. For 2023, John Ruehle of Mid-Tenn Custom Painting can show you some of his tricks of the trade to help you become a better artist with a spray gun and related equipment needed to paint your own models. Stop by his Learning Station and visit with John to hone your spraying painting knowledge and skills.

Learn How to Build Excellent Turnouts Yourself

Jeff Otto

Jeff Otto is back with great new products and will help you learn how to build turnouts and lay track with the best of them. Stop by and talk with Jeff and you can improve your ability to lay the track you want.

Introducing Blunami - Changing The Way You Can Operate Your Train

Sound Traxx - George Bogatiuk

Once again, Sound Traxx's George Bogatiuk is reaching out to offer RPM attendees a look at cutting edge technology on a one-on-one basis. Stop by the Sound Traxx table and learn more about the future of DC, DCC and wireless control.

How To Create Your Dream Backdrop

Jo Ann Kargus

St. Louis' renowned commercial artist and illustrator, Jo Ann Kargus, invites you to join her at a table-sized studio for one-on-one conversations about painting backdrops. Visit Jo Ann's Learning Station to immerse yourself in her exceptional talent and learn the secrets of creating custom art specifically tailored for your model railroad.

Introduction to JMRI

Brian Post

Learn the basics and ask any question for using both Decoder Pro and Panel Pro.

Decoder Pro:

Throttle demonstrations in JMRI (Java Model Railroad Interface)
Programming and trouble shooting all decoders
Using different screen displays
Creating a log of your locomotives

Panel Pro:

Programming and trouble shooting your DCC components ( Digirax PM-42 & DCS-240 )
Making a switch list for running trains
Creating an inventory of rolling stock and locomotives