I made this simple cradle from two scrap lengths of 2x4, a small piece of plywood, and a strip of denim that I cut from an old pair of jeans. I use it to cradle my locomotives while I do running gear work or clean the wheels.

thats a really neat idea Kevin thanks for sharing

Though they might be a bit hard to find I have been using one of these ,Its the insert that a audio microphone came in, Small to medium locos and cars fit perfectly And I really like the small pockets for those small parts and screws.