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Hi there, I want to try making some scenery buildings mainly and eventually a full game board just not sure what materials to use to start off buildings.

I was thinking thin plywood but remembered that it gives a very nasty splintered edge when cut. Any advice?

Plywood is quite heavy, perhaps not for one building but for an entire board it makes a difference...

My go to material is foamcore, lightweight, sturdy, easy to work with. The warping when painted is minimal if any. It comes in a few different thickness's and there is also a black version.

If splinters are a concern, then MDF (Medium-density fibreboard) is a better option, and easier to work with too.

But yes, foamcore/foamboard (it has various names) is even easier, lighter and cheaper. Not as sturdy, but any knocks and drops hard enough to damage foamboard terrain would probably at last cause paint/detail damage on any terrain regardless of what's it's made from.

Some people use MDF for bases, and foamboard for the actual buildings/hills/etc on top.

Before you start chopping and gluing, think about storage and transport - most of the terrain damage I see is from people carelessly shoving terrain into random boxes or the back seat of a car. Even if you only play at home, you still need shelves or drawers or boxes or something to store the terrain in when not in use.

Just don't use it for the base of your building (as in the area terrain base). In that regard, with nothing anchoring the edges, it will warp over time.

Also. if you do detailing on the foamcore with say card from old cornflakes boxes of something similar you strengthen the foamcore furter and get something really sturdy. Can't find any of my examples to show though... will post if I find.

Thanks guys for all the suggestions really helps. Anyone know of any websites that deal with foamcore?

I suggest using plasticard for terrain base, conversion, building accessories, foam board glued on top of plasticard base for hills, buildings; buy a bunch of plastic containers for storage once terrain re built.

Website for foam core:
http://www.antenocitisworkshop.com/wargaming-materials-tools/sheet-materials/foamboard.html
But if you have a decent artists shop near you try them. Hobbyboss might also do it.

I just git this book from Amazon & its really good:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/1847974600?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00

Yeah, foamcore is commonly available at art, craft and even stationery shops.

A slightly more expensive option, but foamcore faced with plasticard is a lot more durable.