Howdy,
Just getting ready to install the backdrop using 1/8" Masonite with 1X2" supports.
Are there any tips about making corners, etc with the masonite?
Thanks
Chuck
Masonite can be bent if it is "scored" but either in Model Railroader or the new Model Railroad Planning issue I saw an even better idea - the thin wood veneer that is used to make hollow core doors bends very nicely.
I was on a layout tour yesterday after the local NMRA divisional meet here in Milwaukee and saw a good idea. The guy had Masonite backdrop and fastened it to his studs using those plastic L shaped things that are used to hold a mirror to the wall.
http://hardware.hardwarestore.com/28-452-mirror-hanger/mirror-holders-and-anchors-218040.aspx
They are cheap, easy to work with and according to the modeler have the additional advantage of letting the Masonite move a bit back and forth during seasonal changes in humidity. He had painted his blue to match the sky but he could have left them clear they way they come.
Dave Nelson
I gave up trying to make curves with Masonite. I had some vinyl flooring offcuts and made my coved corners by gluing it with the underside facing out. Tape and feather it in with Spackle. Then paint it along with the Masonite used in the flat sections and it looks great.
The corner above the hill was done this way.
Simon Modelling CB&Q and Wabash See my slowly evolving layout on my picturetrail site http://www.picturetrail.com/simontrains and our videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/MrCrispybake?feature=mhum
I have bent 1/8" masonite on my layout as tight as a 10" radius. My backdrop, however, is supported by walls and I was able to push it into the corners much tighter than you could having the backdrop supported by uprights. No need to score it; just have an extra pair of hands help you work it into the corners and then fasten it in place.
By the way, I wouldn't try to go any tighter than 10 or 12" radius again in the future....it makes a very loud "snap" when it fails....and it failed at 3:48AM.
Don Z.
Research; it's not just for geeks.