Well, I’m sitting here looking at a huge box from Trumpeter that says Leopold on the front. I’m trying to decide what material to use for the base. I’ve got one suggestion of 1 inch think chipboard (which I’m guessing is the same thing as particle board). Another friend who’s into N Gauge suggested the use of either 2 inch thick pink or blue foam board which can be purchased at a builders supply store.
The base is approximately 3.5 ft by 2 ft. I’d like to keep it as light as possible, yet strong. I’m open to suggestions as what type of material to use.
the foam would work good, it would be light, but the edges aren’t exactly pretty, ive got good results with covering the foam with thin birch strips from the LHS. the foam is also easy to shape. hope this helps
You could also use wood base board molding from a home improvement store (home depot etc.) the advantage of this is that it can be designed into the base board to stiffen it without adding to much extra weight.
Hollow core, bifold doors for closets found at the Home Depot are light and very sturdy. You (or if power tool challenged) or a neighbor can cut it to length and dress up the edge.
MDF. Heavy but sturdy, stable and machines nicely for a decorative edge if you like. In my mind, the heavier the better if for no other reason than stability.
This is a big enough model that I think warrants a durable, substantial base.