O Gauge Layout - Backscenes trial and error!

So the next part of layout detailing was fitting in the backscenes. I think this is one of the most important parts of the layout; a good backscene will transform the whole view of the layout, whilst a poor backscene really detracts from the overall picture, no matter how good the modelling on the baseboard. I had been putting off doing the backscene, as I was not sure how to proceed. I had already glued the foamex boards down onto the layout, so I had to fix the backscenes in-situ.

I had purchased the self adhesive ID photographic backscenes and the quality of the product is excellent. However, I did not think I could use the self  adhesive of the backscene, as the backscene was awkwardly placed in certain parts of the layout, meaning I could not slide the backscene into position. So I opted to use some double sided tape and lightly fix the backscene into place. A lot of cutting and measuring ensued to fit the backscene and it was semi successful, although there were a couple of bad joins between sheets. I left it for a week and over the week the backscenes settled a little (I think they might have swelled a little) and the wrinkles seemingly became more noticeable. In the end I decided I could not live with it, so I had a second attempt.

The first attempt - I was pleased with the overall effect, although there were some wrinkles!

As the backscene had been effectively unrolled, cut to size and tacked into position. I decided to remove the double sided tape and use the self adhesive backing. I removed the protective film from one end of the backscene and smoothed this onto the foamex board to act as an anchor. From there, I slowly removed the rest of the double sided tape and the peeled off the self adhesive protective wrap a few cm at a time, fixing the backscene down as I went. The end result was so much better and wrinkle free. There are a few blemishes here and there but these will be disguised by the addition of the buildings and further scenery.

The second attempt was much better!

So lessons have been learnt. On future layouts, I will stick the backscene to the foamex boards first and then glue these into place. However, the end result for this in-situ fixing is entirely acceptable and I am very pleased with it. I only managed to finish three of the baseboards in this way, so there is a further one to go today before it is all done. However, there are no excuses now, it is time to get those buildings glued down onto the layout and the really fun bit can start, adding in all the small details and cameos. The layout as a whole has now been put away until after xmas, although I can bring down individual boards and work on these in the evenings. So hopefully more progress to report soon!