@James in VA posted:I think what I'll do is create a 3' x 5' elevated platform out of foam (5 x 2" thicknesses) with a 3" hole in the top layer to allow the "trunk" to pass through. I can then put a variant of the attached layout up top. The platform can have two portals and a connecting tunnel (around the back of the tree stand) to allow for the base level train to run a loop on a 5' x 5' square.
Now you're talking. I like it.
I used 1.5" foam. Using 2" won't hurt anything but it just adds expense. If you create a few interior supports/braces inside your platform, then 1.5" will be plenty strong. I was going to use 2" like you but when I showed up at Home Depot that day, they were out.
By the way, I used Gorilla glue to adhere the foam together. As you can see from the pics, I built it in my garage (Oct./Nov.). I'd glue a few pieces, then weight it down or clamp it and let it dry for 24 hours. It's nice to be able to take your time. And if you get started in October, then you have time to react if (when) something goes wrong.
Just go for it. The Christmas layout was the first time I tried something like that. It was fun. My kids and their cousins loved it.
