In the late 1990s and early 2000s, the line was overhauled and the majority of the models underwent major redesigns.

These models were relatively simple, with simple wooden stubs for the funnel and dome, while details such as windows, whistles and buffer beams were omitted. The Wooden Railway merchandise line for the Thomas & Friends franchise was created by Roy Wilson of Learning Curve in 1992, with the line becoming publicly available in 1993. These original models were primarily constructed with painted wood, along with metal used in the coupling magnets and axles and plastic for the wheels and faces.