Hi!
I certainly agree, that with a shelf RR you would want a much more detailed backdrop. IF I were building a shelf layout, I would probably depend more on "flats" and perhaps photos.
In my case, painting a sky/hills/greenery backdrop is doable. But, painting in detailed houses or other structures and the like would be a mess!
I have to add that in either case (sky/countryside or detailed backdrop), the real trick is to blend that backdrop into the layout itself.
ENJOY,
Mobilman44
ENJOY !
Living in southeast Texas, formerly modeling the "postwar" Santa Fe and Illinois Central
An important aspect of a shelf layout, as I see it, is how much RR opration is possible in the minimum "distance" from front to back. If operation with some "heavy shippers" is desireable, then a backdrop scene with scale industries and loading docks would enable an operator to spot cars and lift loads in a space (HO) 6 inches deep, with a main line track, sorting siding, and industrial sidings.
Les Mavor
Very nice, please continue posting pictures.
Bob
Photobucket Albums:NPBL - 2008 The BeginningNPBL - 2009 Phase INPBL - 2010 Downtown
Hi,
The blinds were custom cut years ago when I built the first layout. I was able to get a light blue (sky??) color at the time. I thought about painting them but honestly forgot about doing it when I did the new backdrop - but have decided for now to leave it as is.
Lane Tech - 2/62
Mobileman,
I know I replied to your post on the Gen. Diss., but I just have to say the rest of the backgrounds look nice. Did you paint the blinds, or have considered that? My friend's layout has a window like yours, and he just painted a backdrop right onto the shades.
MadSinger
Finally, I got pictures, a photobucket account, and the wherewithall to post pictures!
The pictures are of my "new & improved "replacement" layout for one that lasted 14 years. The pictures show the painted backdrop and the 2 percent incline to a lower level 6 track staging/storage area. All the 2x2 legs are in place, and the next steps are to put in the 1x4 "joists", and the 1/2 inch 5 ply plywood for the main level. As with the last layout, there will be room to barely open the door, and then you will go under a 4 foot deep "duck under" to get to the operations area inside.
Hope the pictures come out - and make sense!
Thank you,