I've finally finished one of the many projects I started last year. I'd been wanting to display some of my vehicles and figures with a backdrop that reminded me of the fun I had playing with my figures back in the day. It's not perfect, but it does make me smile.


Here it is loaded up with vehicles:


I'll add more customs to this thread as I get the pictures loaded up. Thank you to the many customizers on JoeCustoms for all the tips, tricks and wonderful creations over the years. I hope to add to the community throughout the year.

That’s pretty darn cool!

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That's pretty sweet! I have been struggling with this. I want to make custom backgrounds but I don't know where to start or what type I want. How did you get yours?

That's a great idea and well executed

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Thanks guys! I started mine out by deciding what picture I wanted (that took a while), and what size I needed the background to be (36" x 16" backgroud, 36" x 12" base). I then scaled the picture up in Visio to the size I needed and printed it out on eight sheets of paper, trimming off the excess. I glued the dollar store sheets of foamboard together (2 layers each) and cut them to size. Gluing the sheets onto the back board was where I learned that using the right adhesive is important. I originally used white glue to attached the sheets, and the original board was seamless as I could slide the sheets around a bit until the edges weren't visible. After it dried, the background was warped and the sheets wrinkled. It ended up looking like an artist's interpretation of the original image. The second go-round, I used spray adhesive outside on a breezy day. After a couple of tries, I ended up with the background in the photo.

The base was actually easier even though it took longer. I removed the paper from the top layer of foamboard and used hot glue and toothpicks to attach the backboard to the base. I covered the base in white glue and sprinkled dollar store sand all over the base and added a few rocks from the backyard. Shaking off the excess sand when it dried, I add another layer of sand on top to get good coverage and make the display a little heavier to keep it stable. Then I painted the ground up with a dark brown and dry brushed on a tan color to get the finished product. I'll keep adding to this thread to show my Marauder's Joe Team and a few other customs, if I ever get them painted up.

Great job! It looks like one poster or a single canvas.

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Pretty cool and clean looking.

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Next up is my namesake and first Joe back in '82.

I added the classic gear while working on my modern version out of a sense of nostalgia.
Here's what the Marauder figure was really for:



I added magnets to the rifle and backpack, so he can store it away.

I also gave him interchangeable laser effects.

More to come....

Oh damn! Magnets AND interchangeable blast effects??? *passes out* My dude. This is awesome! I always liked the Flash character but you made him a bombshell haha!

Looks good!

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Man magnets are a game-changer. I don't use them half as often as I should. The blast effects are an excellent touch. Great job.

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Great update on Flash.