The Passaic, Raritan, Neshaminy, Delaware and Lehigh Railroad (reporting marks: PRND&L) operates in my basement between the water heater and a small desk used for audio projects. I needed a way to hide the basement scenery beyond the layout. But I also needed something light and portable, which could be easily removed when necessary. It also had to be easy to clean, since the layout collects a fair amount of dust from the floor above.
A couple of years ago, I picked up some “Mountain Paper” by Lifelike . . . and this winter finally moved on the project.
Here’s a before shot of the north end of the layout, up against the water heater.
Here’s the mountain construction in progress.
And here’s the finished product.
I raided my wife’s sewing box for about 50-75 small head pins and spray painted them dark green. While the paper was still wet, I inserted the pins through the paper into the foam to mold and shape the mountain.
I also created a piece for the other end of the layout (where I don’t have quite as much room to work).
The greenery is various bits and bobs from old artificial Christmas trees, wreaths, and other decorations.
All in all, an inexpensive project which adds a lot to the layout, and still keeps the toy train "feel."
