DIY Network

Painting Model Railroad Layout Backdrops Learn how to add dimension to your layout with in-depth backdrops. From "Workin' On the Railroad" episode DWRR-209L

Host Chris Chianelli is joined in the Workin' on the Railroad workshop by guest John Lowrance, who demonstrates some techniques for painting model train layouts using different stencils. He shows you how to create different styles of clouds and mountains, along with city scenes.

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	Host Chris Chianelli and guest John Lowrance share simple techniques for creating the perfect backdrop.
	Simply follow the instructions, left, and you can create a backdrop that will give your model railroad layout depth and dimension.
	Figure A
	Figure B

Materials:

stencils
spray paints
acrylic paints
paintbrushes
fan brush

1. For backdrops use 3/4 plywood or heavy-duty foam core.

2. Start by painting the backdrop with a dark enough blue so that the white will still show through.

3. Once the blue is dry, start with the white paint.

4. In the top third of the board, place a cloud stencil.

5. Spray as much paint on the stencil as you get on the board itself.

6. Always let some of the blue show through so that a different stencil can be used to give different details.

   Note: Less paint used makes the clouds look as though they are set back (figure A).

7. Determine where the bottom of the railroad is going to be, then decide on the height of the mountains.

8. Hold the mountain stencil along the edge and begin spraying the green paint.

   Tip: Spray on top of the white clouds to make the clouds look as though they are coming out from behind the mountains.

9. To paint buildings onto the backdrop you can use building stencils along with gray paint.

10. Mist in white paint on top of the gray to set in a haze to help make it appear further away.

11. Using a fan brush with dark green paint, brush simple strokes up and down for trees with the paint brush on its side. This gives the effect of closer trees (figure B).

12. Follow the same technique with different colors to fill in.

Note: Want information on building model bridges and trestles to match the amazing backdrop on your layout? Check this out>>.

RESOURCES :

Magazines and Books on Railroading
Kalmbach Publishing Co.
Website: www.modelrailroaderbooks.com

Model Railroader magazine
Website: www.kalmbach.com

National Model Railroad Association
Website: www.mnra.org

GUESTS :

John Lowrance
Master Model Railroader and Freelance Photographer
8611 Norwich
San Antonio, TX 78217