Backdrop Height

[cncproadwarrior]

I'm building a 12x8 HO layout. Two sides will be against the wall with the other 2 sides being about 2 feet from the wall to allow access to other parts of the room. Layout height will be about 48 inches.

I was planning on erecting a backdrop consisting of tentest/hardboard all around the layout at a height of about 20 inches. This would be painted sky blue. An outside track (close to the backdrop) will be about 4 inches higher than the rest of the layout which will consist of low hills and valleys.

I wonder if this height would be too high and give it a "fish bowl" look.

Suggestions welcomed.

 

[UP2CSX]

20 inches is about right for that layout height. The goal should be for your backdrop to come up to the eye level of a standing person so the 5'8" height is right on the money.

 

[68 Camaro]

I would go at least 24 inches. Mine was 18 inches high on a shelf layout that was 49 inches high and when taking photos I always ended up with white sidewall at the top of the photos. If you get the hardboard material at Home Depot, you can have them rip it and end up with two 24 x 48 inch sections.

If you are considering coving the corners with the hardboard, make sure that you end up with the butt end sides of the hardboard meeting at a sidewall stud if possible. You are going to have to mud the butt joints to get rid of the seam.

I have included a photo showing the highth problem with 18". This layout has been ripped out and a new shelf layout started. This time I am going to forget the hardboard and paint the side wall up 24 inches.

 

[cncproadwarrior]

Thanks,

68 Camaro, how did you paint the clouds?

BTW, I have a 69 GTX

 

[68 Camaro]

Rattle can flat white from Home Depot. Short bursts from about eight inches away. Practice on something first. I didn't and had to redo them.