Temporary layout down...permanent begins...first stop backdrop!

OK, backdrop is up and painted (see photos). Not bad for first time at this!  Next stop: clouds. Two questions:

1.  Any tips on painting clouds (also a first time for me)?

2. Should I move this thread to Layout Building Forum?  I have always enjoyed the advice on this forum for my track, rolling stock, and accessory questions, but not sure if this phase of my project is best here.

Thanks,

Pags

I see the Long Island map on the wall, you are a long way from home. Nice room, I look forward to your build. Rich

Just a couple of suggestions. Your sky will look a bit more realistic if you keep the dark blue for the upper part and mix a little white to your blue and blend it in as you go lower on your wall.  I really never paid attention to that until I really looked at the sky and it is deep blue overhead and is a different lighter blue as you get to the horizon. You will be surprised what a difference it makes. As for the clouds, I used stencils made by New London Industries. Here is a thread about the layout I am building. My sky and clouds are painted on basement cement blocks and will not look as nice as yours. https://ogrforum.com/t...50#67736898034259450

Good Luck!!!!!

Rick

Rick,

Thanks for your posts with helpful information, including the link to the other thread.  Great photos.

Yes, I was planning on blending white paint with the bottom half of the first coat of blue, but then decided to use spray on white paint afterwards.  Also works well for some light clouds on top section.

I also have been experimenting with different methods of creating clouds on a remnant leftover sheet of Masonite (brush, sponge, stencils, etc).  Even had my grandkids give it a try. Realized I have very limited artistic talents, so I will go with the stencils as you suggest.  Seems easiest with good results.  (My daughter-in-law is a graphic designer and she said to keep trying. Might have her brush in some clouds after I use the stencils.)  FYI, I had previously tried to purchase stencils from a variety of sources, including directly from New London Industries, but could not find any available. Wonder if still made.  So I made some myself out of poster board.  Still experimenting with shapes and technique...gets better with each try. Almost ready for the real deal. 

Had a beautiful cloud-filled sky a week or so ago out here and took some photos. Trying to mimic some of the scenes. See photos.

And yes, the map of LI shows my roots: Copiague, LI, NY.  The layout has several themes, including both passenger and freight lines for the LIRR.  Will have a station that resembles the Copiague train station (elevated).  Retired and moved here to Portland, OR from Ithaca, NY to be closer to our children and grandchildren.  "Dream layout" will have two levels: lower one at 31" for grandkids to reach (single main line with double reversing loops and lots of vintage accessories in yards), and upper one at 40" (double track around the room with Mianne Lift-Gate at doorway entrance).  With relatives still on LI, my wife and I now make annual fall visits to see them, then we travel to York, PA for the fabulous TCA train meet. Wife shops in the Amish country while I enjoy the meet: win-win!!

I'll keep you posted on the clouds.

Thanks again,

Michael

Oops, bit of info on LI was for Rich.  Sorry for confusing replies.

Michael