I thought that the lack of an integrated backscene on the first version of the 'Crowsnest' concept detracted from the finished layout. So when designing the 3/8 scale version a painted 'backcloth' was considered to be an essential part of the whole. As it came out I was very satisfied with the effect created, although it proved quite elusive in photographic terms. Either it came out too dark or too light. Viewed with the Mk1 human eyeball however it was convincing and some visitors had difficulty judging where reality ended and pure paint began. To aid this effect some subterfuge was resorted to with '3D' effects created by having some foliage areas actually modelled using etched brass leaves (Scalelink). The mine, to which the tramway was supposed to run was actually painted on the backscene. Or at least, the distinctive chimney belonging to its engine house was just visible in a distant valley.

The whole effect was essentially rural, and by using an overmist of white an 'early summer morning' feel was attained that proved quite pleasing. As the baseboard came out of the cabinet as a separate unit it was possible to gain easy access to the backscene and it facilitated painting to a great extent. After the sky had been painted in (Summer Blue emulsion paint) clouds were airbrushed on using process white. Otherwise all the scenic painting was undertaken in artist's gouache using a variety of brush sizes. In some areas a very fine brush was used and each leaf painted on individually - or so it seemed at the time.

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