How to make a Background

[Fullboar]

this is a post I put up before the site had it's make over. I've had a few emails asking to see the photo's so here's the post and the photo's.

You will need:

1 x backing board (timber works best) $20
2 x cans of expander foam (it’s none toxic once cured) $13
2 x spray adhesive $18
1 x bag of sand $10

1.Below, backing set out with hinds. The backing is cut 1” shorter than the enclosure. (Don’t know if it’s alright to use plastic bottles as hides?)

2.Spray the form to your liking. Spray over the sides but only a thin coat. If you want to make a platform for your snake to lie on. Do it in layers and let it set in between each one. It will take around 15min to set. Place it in the enclosure once it is tack free (skinned) to size up. It will still be soft so take care. Let it set in the enclosure or in a pre makes jig so you get a good fit (over night). If you make a platform for the snake, you may need to support it if you stand it up in the enclosure. Once set, take it out and finish it of.

3.Add timber if you like. Pick timber that has some good bends in it so it sticks out and the snakes can use it to climb. Remove any bark and clean it before putting it in the form.

4.Let it set for 24hr then spray with the adhesive and sprinkle the sand on. You may need to do it in stages to get good cover. You will need to turn it on its side and any other way to cover it all 100%. Let it set and you are done. If you stuff up, let it set and cut that area out and fix it. Once the sand is on you will never know. I used air to clean it once it has set but your vac will work as well.

5.DON’T TOUCH THE FORM UNTILL SET, IT’S VERY STICKY.

That’s it, put it in the enclosure and screw it in from the back or how ever you need to fit it. With cleaning, brush off any mess and a light wipe. Once it starts to look old and messy, take it out clean it and renew the sand, it will look new once more.

It may sound like a lot of work but it’s not, it done over two days and you can do it between other jobs or TV.

Scott