For this month’s report we’ll look at some of the interior details of coach 9, particularly the decorative artwork on the ceiling panels. Research on how it was on the original cars, such as coach 3, revealed that water slide decals were used. This was big business in the 1890s, with catalogs dedicated to the different patterns that could be applied to wood. When Eric and Ron checked to see what was available today, they found that the largest decal sheets that decal printers could work with were 8 x 11 inches. So, they had to come up with a different method of replicating the patterns that were found on the ceiling of coach 3. It was decided to go with vinyl transfers.

Before work could be done on the vinyl transfers, the ceiling panels had to be properly formed to correctly fit into the ceiling. Eric created forms based on the curvature of the roof to bend the panels into the proper shape. Oak veneer was glued onto two layers of 1/8″ plywood using a vacuum clamping system to shape it in the mold. Once the glue had dried, the panel was stained. When the stain had dried, varnish was applied to the panels.

To begin the work on the vinyl transfers, Eric took photos of the patterns that were found on the ceiling of coach 3. These were then digitized using a computer. Since what was found on coach 3’s ceiling was not in perfect condition, he needed to clean up the graphics and recreate missing sections.

Once they had the completed patterns, a company had to be found that would be able to reproduce them in vinyl. According to Ron, this took over a year, with four vinyl sign companies contacted before one was willing and able to do the job. Upon receiving the vinyl patterns, Ron and Eric took them and the ceiling panels to a local vinyl sign maker to apply the artwork. Upon return of the panels, two coats of gloss varnish were applied to protect the artwork.

We’re looking forward to receiving the first parts for the chandeliers that will be installed in Coach 9 (and W&Q Coach 3.) Each chandelier is $3500 – please help us purchase SIX of them by contributing at www.wwfry.org/coach9

To date, only $8550 of the $120,000 needed to “Finish Coach 9 to the Nines” has been raised. Contributions (tax-deductible) in any amount are greatly appreciated.