Tinkerbell scale

Tinkerbell scale refers to live steam models under 1 inch scale. The term Tinkerbell may also be applied to those that participate in live steam construction and operation in these smaller scales.

Tidbits from Chaski
From Dianne B:


 * So what the heck is "Tinkerbell scale"? Over 50 years around steam and I have never heard of it? 4-3/4"? 3.5"?

From Bob D:


 * Tinkerbell is anything you can still pick up! Mostly refers to 3/4" scale, 3 1/2" gauge I believe.

From Steve M:


 * Anything into which Tinkerbell can fit in the cab

From Harlock:


 * Anything that's not hernia gauge!

from elm53:


 * That 3/4 inch scale Northern in the background of Ed's Dinky is MLS' Jim Turnbull built. It is now back in the family with fellow Tinkerbell Jim Legget.

Trending Up
The Live Steamer, September-October 1951

George Murray

Times and tastes change with the passing years. Some 20 years ago (around 1931) in the hobby it was 2-1/2 inch gauge that got a lot of popularity. Then the 3-1/2 inch gauge came into first place and more or less made the 2-1/2 inch size obsolete, though there still are numbers of builders in this size. More recently there is a trend to 1 inch scale 4-3/4 inch gauge, with even some going into 7-1/4 inch gauge, etc. and where this trend will lead nobody knows. Some men feel that the 2-1/2 inch gauge size should not take a backseat as it seems to. For those with a desire to have a big wheelbase modern type loco without the heavy weight problem it is in 3-1/2 inch gauge, or for limited lathe size capacity, the 2-1/2 inch gauge has a lot in its favor. While it isn't likely that 3-1/2 inch gauge will become any less popular, let's consider the merits of 2-1/2 inch gauge and keep it also as a vital part of popular live steam interest.