Flexible mat and .... Wallpaper; a question

[maxxev]

Hi, I have seen a number of articles on making a flexible gaming mat using canvas.

I was wondering has anyont ever tried using canvas + wallpaper...?

I ask because I have a roll of asbsolutely perfect wallpaper that i've had for about 5 years, I do not have space for boards but I would have for a rolled up mat, so has anyone tried this or does anyone think it would be possible?

Something like canvas + modgepodge + wallpaper + modgepodge layers on top...?

Cheers

[Westfalia Chris]

I've used some nice textured wallpaper to cover MDF baseboards, since it seemed an easy way to get a good texture in a short time and without the mess that is textured paint. Not exactly convinced by the result, but with some airbrushing or multiple layers of cloudy highlights, it could be done in a better way.

I assume that by "modgepodge" you are referring to some kind of wallpaper glue? I guess it could work on a canvas base, but I'd do a test beforehand to see if the glue retains some flexibility after drying - most wallpaper glues I've encountered dry to a rigid finish, and that could make it hard, maybe impossible to roll up the mat.

Finally, and that may be a continental problem, I've found that wallpapers over here only come in metric measurements (i.e. a bit above 500mm/20in wide), so getting a 2ft or 4ft mat will require lining up multiple bands. Covering up the joints might be tricky, although you could alleviate it somewhat by ripping the sides to produce an irregular edge.

[Elbows]

Canvas and other fabrics change shape when the material is added, so I think that's a no-go for wallpaper personally.  The goop causes the canvas to contract etc.

[Daeothar]

My initial thoughts would be that wallpaper is too fragile to be used in anything but a fixed and inflexible role. But of course, as it is rolled up when bought, it could be stored rolled.

The problem, as stated, would be the glue. But why restrict yourself to using wallpaper glue? Why not use a spray on adhesive for example? That will retain some flexibility (dries a bit rubbery), and will also not flood the canvas underneath.

How such a combo would hold up under battle is another story altogether though. As the canvas is flexible both lengthwise and sideways, I fear the paper would crumple easily, causing white creases to show through the surface, especially on the sides. Something you would not be able to counter with copious amounts of varnish, as that would of course crack when rolled up again...