Richard,

Welcome to the forum!

I think you have done all the right things so far – mainly because they are broadly similar to what I did . I have also benefited from are getting an opportunity to drive an engine on a track, confirming that I am interested in both building and running a model locomotive. And I have made contact with other members of this forum in my local area, learning loads from visiting them in their workshops.

When I was faced with your question, the answer I chose was to build something I want to own, in my case a modest 5" gauge locomotive, just because personally I cannot muster any enthusiasm for the 'standard' training pieces or engine kits. I'm 4 months in and have not so far regretted my decision; there are lots of components I've treated as training pieces (the Buffer beams have been been built twice , don't ask) before moving on to the more expensive parts. The benefit is that once I have completed a component to my satisfaction, I am a small step nearer to what I want to achieve.

I'm sure there will be other answers to your question, it's all just a matter of choosing which one suits you, your budget, your objective and your time available.

Best regards

Mike

MY first project was the Nemett. As a novice, you just end up making some parts two or three times to get it right! I've now built a Stuart Victoria to my own configuration and now trying to build a V8. I think you need to work on what you want to work on, it's a hobby so it doesn't really matter if you get it right third time…Working on stuff you have no interest isn't fun and unnecessary. You've joined a club, so you will have plenty of help. It typically takes me two years to produce anything, but the things I make are not intended to pay the mortgage, just to have fun in the workshop, which is what it's about. You just need to make sure the things you make are within the capacity of your machines and tools. So very much agree with 60019.