Plank?

[Stephen Rainsbury]

I found a plank at work today, 5'6" x 12" and 16mm thick, and appears to be made from lengths of solid software glued together, then planned.

It is at least 20 years old seems completely solid and just fitted into my car, so an ideal size for my base board. It isn't showing any sign of bending, so would it need a frame?

[Hobby]

Maybe not. But bear in mind that you'll be using water based glues and possible plaster bandage or other water-glue based scenic material so it could warp. There's also where you store it could affect it. For a few quid's worth of wood I'd play safe. assuming that it'll still fit in the car with a frame in it!

[Retiarius]

Fitting an under-board framing of 2"x1" or even 3"x1" timber would give you space for point motors, wiring etc. Though if going to that trouble I would make the frame and fit a 6mm plywood top. I made an 800x250x55 mm baseboard with a 3mm plywood top for less than £10.

[Stephen Rainsbury]

Maybe not. But bear in mind that you'll be using water based glues and possible plaster bandage or other water-glue based scenic material so it could warp. There's also where you store it could affect it. For a few quid's worth of wood I'd play safe. assuming that it'll still fit in the car with a frame in it!

It will be used lying on the spare bed, but stored in the garage when our kids or her indoors sister comes to stay.  Which is actually next weekend.. damn I had forgotten that. You are probably right it would be a false saving.

[Stephen Rainsbury]

Fitting an under-board framing of 2"x1" or even 3"x1" timber would give you space for point motors, wiring etc. Though if going to that trouble I would make the frame and fit a 6mm plywood top. I made an 800x250x55 mm baseboard with a 3mm plywood top for less than £10.

Hmm you are right, that would be a better plan. My boss asked if I wanted it for my scout group as it was too good to just throw away, and it was almost exactly the size I am after. having said that I laid out some track templates last night and realized that I might be trying to do too much in the space and I might have to revisit my ideas.