A Handy Holder for the Gaugemaster GMC-W Controller - easy to use and fit

This is a neat little caddy holder for the Gaugemaster GMC-W walkabout controller. Its a controller we love to use on various shelf and diorama layouts but with the caddy it means that there is somewhere neat to hold it. (we re-use it on several setups). The cutout ensures that all the legends of the controller, buttons and switches are unobstructed and there is a cut out too for the cable that comes out of the bottom of the controller. The kit can be painted as well if you like. 

FAQ – Product FAQs

What controller is this caddy holder designed for?

This caddy holder is designed specifically for the Gaugemaster GMC-W walkabout controller. The cutout is shaped so that all the legends, buttons and switches remain fully visible and usable while the controller sits in the holder.

Is the Gaugemaster GMC-W controller included with the caddy?

No, the controller is not included. Any images showing the controller are for illustration only. The product is the laser-cut caddy holder kit and the green felt backing.

What material is the caddy made from?

The caddy is supplied as a precision laser-cut kit that is assembled with wood glue. It is designed to be sturdy once glued and can be painted if you wish to match your layout or diorama.

Can I use this caddy on multiple layouts?

Yes, the caddy is ideal for layouts, shelves and dioramas where you want a neat place to put your walkabout controller. Many modellers re-use it across several setups, either by screwing it in place or using a mounting method that suits their layout.

Does the caddy accommodate the controller cable?

Yes, there is a dedicated cutout for the cable that exits from the bottom of the Gaugemaster GMC-W controller. This helps keep the cable tidy and stops it from being pinched or bent sharply.

How is the controller protected inside the caddy?

The kit includes a green felt backing that provides a snug, soft fit for the controller. This felt helps prevent scratches and stops the controller from rattling in the holder.

How do I fix the caddy to my layout or wall?

The caddy has two holes so it can be screwed to a suitable surface. You can mount it on a fascia board, layout edge, shelf or control panel wherever it is convenient for operating your layout.

What glue should I use to assemble the kit?

The kit is designed to be assembled with a little wood glue. A standard PVA woodworking adhesive works well. Apply a thin, even layer, press the parts together and allow sufficient drying time before use.

Do I need any special tools to assemble it?

No special tools are required. Typically you will only need:

• Wood glue (PVA or similar)
• A small brush or applicator for the glue
• Clamps or elastic bands to hold parts while the glue dries (optional)
• A sharp knife or fine sandpaper for any light clean-up (optional)

Can the caddy be removed and repositioned after installation?

If you have screwed the caddy into place, you can simply unscrew it and move it to another location. This makes it easy to reuse the holder on different layouts or control panels.

Is this caddy suitable for controllers other than the Gaugemaster GMC-W?

The cutout is tailored to the Gaugemaster GMC-W walkabout controller, including the cable exit and visibility of legends. Other controllers may not fit correctly or may obscure their buttons and markings.

Will painting the caddy affect how the controller fits?

Light painting should not affect the fit, especially if you avoid heavy paint build-up inside the cutout area. Keep paint layers thin where the controller and felt sit so the snug fit is maintained.

The parts do not seem to line up properly. What should I check?

First, ensure that each piece is oriented correctly and that you are following the natural interlocking edges. Dry-fit the parts without glue to confirm alignment before gluing. If something still seems off, lightly clean any laser-cut tabs with fine sandpaper to remove small burrs.

The controller feels loose in the caddy. How can I improve the fit?

Make sure the green felt backing is installed correctly and fully adhered. If it is not sitting flat, the controller may wobble. You can add a second thin layer of felt or card behind the supplied felt to tighten the fit, taking care not to over-pack the space.

The controller feels too tight when inserting it. What can I do?

Check that paint or excess glue has not built up inside the cutout. If it has, gently sand back any raised areas. Also ensure the felt is not bunched up; it should lie flat so the controller slides in smoothly.

The cable seems strained when the controller is in the caddy. How do I fix this?

Make sure the cable is routed through the dedicated bottom cutout and not trapped between the caddy and the mounting surface. You may need to adjust the mounting height or angle so the cable can drop naturally without a sharp bend.

The caddy feels wobbly after mounting. What might be wrong?

Check that the screws are firmly fixed into a solid surface and that the caddy is flush against it. If you have mounted it on a thin board, you may need suitable fixings or a backing piece behind the board to give the screws something solid to bite into.

How should I prepare the surfaces before gluing?

Ensure all mating surfaces are dry and free from dust. You can lightly sand the edges if there is any residue from the laser cutting. A clean, slightly keyed surface allows the wood glue to bond more effectively.

What type of paint works well on this kit?

Most hobby paints that are suitable for wood will work, such as acrylic model paints. These dry quickly and are easy to clean up. Always test on a small offcut or hidden area first to check coverage and finish.

When is the best time to paint: before or after assembly?

Either approach can work. Many modellers prefer to assemble the caddy first, then paint the outside surfaces once the glue has fully cured. If you paint before assembly, keep glue contact areas free of paint for the strongest bond.

How can I protect the felt while painting?

It is usually easier to paint the caddy before fitting the felt. If the felt is already installed, mask it carefully with low-tack tape or scrap card so that paint does not soak into it.

Can I weather or detail the caddy to match my layout?

Yes, you can add light weathering, dry-brushing or detailing to help the caddy blend into your layout fascia or control area. Just avoid heavy texturing where the controller or felt need to sit smoothly.