New L&C Crossing Hobby Depot Opens in Midland, April 2026 Planned

L&C Crossing Hobby Depot announced plans to open at Northwest Plaza in Midland in April 2026, bringing a combined model plane, train, and automobile retail and workshop space to the area. The shop was founded by Larry Brashear, a long time model train enthusiast, and will sell kits geared to all skill levels while also offering bundled kits with tutorials to help newcomers get started.

To equip the shop for in house production of custom parts and kits, Brashear launched a Kickstarter campaign seeking $24,952 to purchase 3D printing and laser cutting equipment and the required ventilation and filtration systems. The crowdfunding campaign is scheduled to run through December 5, 2025. Securing those tools will allow the store to fabricate precision components and short run products that are often hard to find through traditional suppliers.

The business intends to complement existing local hobby offerings rather than compete with them, positioning itself as a resource for both experienced modelers and beginners. In addition to retail sales, the shop plans to host hands on tutorials and to form a local model railroad club, creating regular opportunities for community building, skills exchange, and collaborative layout projects. Those programs will aim to lower the barrier to entry for newcomers and to provide ongoing activities for seasoned hobbyists.

For hobbyists who value bespoke parts, classroom style instruction, and a neighborhood gathering place, the depot represents both a new retail option and a potential hub for Midland area modelers. The incorporation of modern fabrication tools alongside traditional kit offerings reflects a growing trend in the hobby toward maker focused customization. Further updates on the shop opening and Kickstarter campaign will be posted on the business website as plans progress.