Door topper backing?

[new2woodwrk]

Hi all,

I'm in the process of making a door topper for my neighbor (post relating to pricing).

It is a group of Pelicans each with the name of a family member cut out. It is 48" long and 10" at it's highest (the Grand Father)

I was wondering if I should add a backing to each of the Pelicans - something that would pop the name or do you think just the names are fine against the painted wall?

Thanks as always in advance

Btw, no pics yet - they just got cut yesterday and are drying at the moment

 

[Dan]

I add backers to most projects with words cut out. 

[stoney]

You don't say how thick the material being used is but on thicker wood, say more than 1/4", I sometimes paint the inside cuts usually black.   It really makes a great contrast especially when viewed from an angle.  I paint the inside cuts before removing the pattern.  I also usually apply a dark backer. 

[ike]

you could ccut them from 1/8 material and use 1/8 backer. it all depends upon tlhe trim that they sit on.

ike

[MrsN]

with out seeing the project, I would most likely add a backer. Words often get lost without one.

[Bill WIlson]

Hard to say for sure, without a visual.  There are several variables to consider.  One of which is the color of the painted wall.  There should be contrast between the wood and the cutouts.  A backer is the simplest way to accomplish this.  However, the thickness of the piece and the size of the cut out areas play key roles as well.

[tomsteve]

if you want to add a backer and cant use something too thick, you could use something like poster board or picture frame matting as a backer.

[new2woodwrk]

10 hours ago, stoney said:

You don't say how thick the material being used is but on thicker wood, say more than 1/4", I sometimes paint the inside cuts usually black.   It really makes a great contrast especially when viewed from an angle.  I paint the inside cuts before removing the pattern.  I also usually apply a dark backer. 

The pieces are cut from 3/4" poplar

10 hours ago, ike said:

you could ccut them from 1/8 material and use 1/8 backer. it all depends upon tlhe trim that they sit on.

ike

The edging of the door is 3/4" as well so there is very little area to add a backer, other than paper.

I'll post a pic once they dry and I can get them to the camera

Thanks all for the suggestions - much appreciated

Edited December 15, 2020 by new2woodwrk