August 13, 20223 yr Hello, D Bryan New to the Group. I make Nativity Scenes for Christmas season. I used treated Plywood last year. It is very ruff does not cut smooth. But will last forever. What would be a better quality plywood that would be durable. I use 3/4”
August 13, 20223 yr 7 minutes ago, lew said: Have you considered MDO plywood? Lew, I'm thinking if he's building the scenes for outdoor use, MDO may not be the best choice?
August 13, 20223 yr Popular Post Just now, John Morris said: Lew, I'm thinking if he's building the scenes for outdoor use, MDO may not be the best choice? Wait, never mind, I was thinking of MDF.
August 13, 20223 yr Popular Post Like Lew said, MDO is what you want. It's purpose in life is to be used for outdoor signs, so it has a very smooth surface to take paint nicely, and it's an exterior grade ply so it holds up outside. It will cost quite a bit more (I think, I don't buy much treated plywood) but give you a much nicer product. MDO can be hard to find, if the lumber don't have it, you might try sign companies they sometimes sell it. Welcome to the group! Edited August 13, 20223 yr by Fred W. Hargis Jr
August 13, 20223 yr Popular Post The only problem I know of for what I think you are building is the weight of MDO. It is usually my understanding that it is full size at 3/4 and since the core is man made will be heavier than regular ply making support of displays needing more planning.
August 13, 20223 yr Popular Post Cedar fence boards would be closer to real looking and may be lighter and cheaper. Nine of these would make an appx. 6'X4' panel at $35.73
August 14, 20223 yr Welcome aboard Danny, glad to have you here. I am just down the road a ways. I have seen a lot of these nativity scenes made from OSB! And likely 7/16" to boot. I have made a bunch of lawn ornaments myself in years past. I think I used 1/2" CDX plywood, but it has been many years. I know I did not use 3/4". I did caulk all the edges and paint them before displaying. Of course some lasted better than others, but that gives you repeat customers - as long as they last a few years...
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