Here’s a photo of the right-side module after applying grout layer #2. Again, allow the grout to fully dry and harden for at least 24 hours before proceeding. Instead of runny pancake mix I suggest standard pancake mix as the consistency. This batch of grout should be a little thicker than the first. STEP 9Īfter the first layer of grout has dried completely, mix the second coat. When finished applying the first coat of grout, allow the entire structure to dry for a full 24 hours. Using a large brush slop on the grout while wiping the brush against the edges of the rocks allowing the grout to run down in between all the pieces. The first layer contains a half teaspoon or so of cement color and is mixed so that its consistency is that of runny pancake mix. Now that the entire structure has had time to dry, it’s time to apply the first layer of grout. In an effort to conceal the majority of the “seam” down the middle of the background piece I adhered several pieces of the smaller stones in a way where they slightly overlapped from the left to the right or from the right to the left. Here are a few close-ups of the structure including “shelves”, hides, etc.Īt this point the essentially complete structure is ready to dry before starting to grout. While placing the various pieces I decided to add some larger shelf-like pieces to simulate overhangs and larger rocks which will also serve as a place for my Gecko to rest/bask while exploring the structure. Individual pieces are placed level in a horizontal fashion from left to right. Now it’s time to adhere the pieces of rock to the background and side pieces starting from the top of the structure down. This is a photo of a small piece of polystyrene after cutting, shaping, and sanding. When attempting to simulate the curved and rounded shape of the rock it is much easier to cut out the basic shape using a soldering iron or polystyrene hot wire cutter. While waiting for the liquid nails to set, start shaping the smaller pieces of rock/boulder to create the staggered rock look. The photos below were taken after applying the first layer of grout, however, you can easily see how the side panels are attached to each of the background panels. Using Liquid Nails adhere the side panels to the background panels. I cut two 12″x18″ pieces for the background panels and two 6″x18″ pieces for the side panels. STEP 2Ĭut the polystyrene into appropriate sizes based on the measurements taken in STEP 1. Due to the large size of this background I’ll be constructing it as a left, and a right module. Measure the size of the area to be covered by the background/sides/bottom of the structure.
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