Painting the initial backdrop installation a single shade of blue was just fine to get things started on the HO scale (1:87.1) East Troy Industrial Park project layout. However, David and Bryson share an easy technique for blending the background sky color with the adjacent wall color, and set the stage for those stunning photos they’ll be framing up soon!
Be sure to keep up with the construction progress by linking into the Trains.com Workshop Webcam (available 24/7), and the full series of helpful, instructional videos rolling out every month until the effort concludes. Even then, the fun will continue in frequent Trains.com articles/updates and Model Railroader print features, beginning with the January 2026 issue. You won’t want to miss the Expert Tips and Techniques the crew will share with you along the way, as they have a bit of fun bringing the ETIP into fruition!
Are you going to hide the upright support for the backdrop? It stands out about 8 feet in from right side. A little blue paint would hide it. And I have to agree, the transition is still a little too noticeable, more blending, IMHO.
I’m in agreement with Roger T that the transition is too sharp a line. Needs more blending. And I think it is too high. I’m thinking no more higher than half way, or one-third the height would be a better transition as the area of the blend gives you a horizon. Whachathink?
It is not the MR&T without a backdrop. Time to put the backdrop in there and make this layout come to life. Getting closer to the day when the buildings are put in.
Hmmm. I was expecting a much more extensive and gradual transition over, perhaps, 8 to 12 inches from the darker top to the bottom haze. In some cases, the change still looks quite sharp in the videos. My eye still sees a consistent line between the two shades.going across the backdrop. Seeing the backdrop live, though, may give you a better transition experience.
Agree.
Hey, what’s wrong with Olympia?!?!
I prefer the method Gerry Leone used for blending haze into the sky in Back on Track: Painting & installing a backdrop, Episode 8.