Replies

1. 
   johnhardy | Mar 28, 2003 09:27pm | #1

   Exterior ... *and* ... unfinished? This doesn't sound like wood. I'd use colored plastic, but I'd check to make sure that it was UV inhibited. If you couldn't find anything like that, I'd use aluminum or another soft metal that I could scroll saw reasonably well.

   Edit ... You can use a router with a template and a bearing bit to cut aluminum in this thickness. Faster and a better end result than a scroll saw.

   John

   
   

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   Edited 3/28/2003 6:32:37 PM ET by johnhardy

2. 
   pauld | Mar 29, 2003 03:34am | #2

   Don,

   MDO - Medium Density Overlay.

   Its the paper clad plywood used by signmakers. I left a piece in my back yard for several years with only aesthetic degradation (discoloration due to weather). It was a relatively large piece, and remained flat and sound. I can't predict whether smaller, irregularly shaped cutouts, like letters, would remain flat if left out in the weather.

   Out of curiosity, why not finish your work with a little spar varnish or primer and exterior enamel? It only takes a little while, and the payback is palpable.

   Good luck,

   Paul

1. 
   DonC | Mar 29, 2003 03:45am | #3

   Thanks Paul,

   That sounds just like the stuff I need to use. I really always did intend to paint the letters but just thought I'd ask about something really in the "Marine" classification. I wonder if this stuff could be shaped into boat siding. I considered making the letters of Marine plywood. They use a resorcinal glue on the layers of veener and is usually mahogany. Kinda pricey, and this job is for free ,for a good cause and I have to incur material costs. I hope I can find what you recommended for a good price.

   Thanks again,

   Don