Benchwork

[AHRJMR]

After moving about a year ago I am going ready to get back into the hobby. I have to build new benchwork and I am going to start with a 4' x 8' layout.

How thick does my sheet of plywood have to be 1/4" or 1/2"?  I am going to use 1' x 4" boards for the frame, legs and support pieces.

Thanks,

Jim

[mhampton]

Go with the 1/2".  Anything thinner will sag.

[jettrainfan]

i have 1/2 and you can have 20-30 pounds on it without a worry!  maybe even more!

[Jim Banner]

The 1/2" plywood does not have to be sanded fir plywood.  Sheathing grade spruce is softer, making it easier to work, and about the same price as a sheet of 1/4" sanded fir plywood.

We often cover the whole surface of the plywood with scenery of various kinds, so eventually you probably won't see any of your plywood.  But even if all you do is paint it green, you will find that the rougher surface of sheathing grade plywood looks more natural than the super smooth surface of sanded plywood.

Jim

[trainmaster971]

The 1/2" plywood is fine but you need to get the 4 ply kind.  The 3 ply tries to warp if you get it too wet when doing scenery.