Saga of the Rödmoon

“The flutist made a beautiful sound in the depth of the Kaernas forest. It was snowing. Käelma the native Hakkae called it. Hakkae had 27 different words for particular types of snow fall. Käelma was the 26th, a steel rain of black crystals that froze on your skin and caused instant frostbite with the cold winds. After that came what translated only as death, and Sgt. Borros did not intend to find out why.

27th Roslak Rovers, sheltered under the thick protective foliage of the massive Kaernas trees. Huddled around the flutist. The music was their shield, their comfort, their memory on this grey night before another battle. It was a song only a month old. A song of death and duty, of a hero and a daemon. The memory of it still left the men shaken, some weeping, but all of them focused. It was a story of the Emperor in the sun and his executioners in the night.

A month ago the Rovers were getting annihilated, outnumbered and out fought by the black crusade. Legions of the damned, supported by traitor Marines and daemons of the warp. The imperial lines were going to collapse and another planet would be consumed by the despoiler. The dark sorceries opened a rift between realms. Death visited Kaernas.

Borros had prayed, prayed like the elders thought him. Prayed for Sun Emperor’s deliverance.

A giant in grey armor, clad in pelts, and adorned with steel imagery and burning red runes of warding launched from the rift. Sprung on the traitor, daemon and damned alike. He cleaved them in half with massive sweeps of his frosted axe, flayed left and right with a massive claw dripping gore and sent explosive shells from his wrist cannon at the backs of all who tried and failed to escape the carnage. The lord of Grey flowed through the front line, propelled by a jet of blood. Even the enemy Defiler was left in pieces, it’s daemon hart ripped from it’s carcass.


It was over so shockingly fast. Defied comprehension. A dozen battered Rovers stood frozen like statues and stared in the black mercury eyes of the wolf.”








"The Bear shall take up the mantle of
Gatekeeper, and the Lost Kin return to the
Realms of Man. Brother shall slay brother, as
at the Dawn of Time, but the Were-kin stand
aloof. Their task set in stone before them. The
Son of the Traitor shall lay waste - First the
Gate, then the Palace. The Children of Russ
shall oppose him or perish, their names
reviled for all time. Now is the time, mighty
Wolf. Your hunt is nearing its end. Your
quarry is set before you. Your saga shall be
sung for all time."
— Prophecy of Frode


"The voice of Russ was the loudest of all, [Text lost] but Guilliman and Dorn gainsaid his counsel. To enter the Occularis Terribilis would bring disorder on the surviving Legions, they said, leaving Man vulnerable to both the xenite and apostate. It is said that Russ, as was often the way, took his own counsel and sent forth the Wulfen to hunt down Abaddon and his followers. Others say that the Thirteenth Great Company pursued the heretics of their own accord, as hounds at the chase who heed not the calls of their huntsman. Others still maintain that the Wulfen had been tainted by the Dark Gods and were summoned by their call to join the Traitor Legions in the netherworld"


News,

Imagine the bravest, the most dedicated, those who paid the heaviest price of the VI Legion, Adpetus Astartes, Vlka Fenryka, Emperor's executioners. A Warrior band of individual heroes and hounds, in pursuit in to the warp 10 millenia ago to hunt down Magnus and the rest of the heretic Primarchs. Imagine a beautiful set of illustrations by Dainton translated to model form by an exquisite set of conversions and hyper realistic, but moody paint jobs.

XX Legion fought in moonlight, these will dwell in a warp blizzard. Things will be flowing in different directions, there will be a swirl of death and thunder around each hero and huscarl, wulfen and wolf. A dozen or so insane(ly) powerful warriors and or beasts. Empowered by the liberties in army selection that is the seventh edition Warhammer 40000.

A whole new level of scale (beyond what the insanity that was and is Legion) and new material feel with different weathering effects.

I've finally started a brand new project. In the planning ever since I saw the new Horus model.This is a return to my first love, the Space Wolves, but the extreme 13th Great Company. You will notice a common theme to Alpha Legion. Stealth and duty, hated but loyal to death. I needed to wait until my birthday to open my box of goodies and have been having a blast this weekend.

I want to considerably up the ante from Legion (sure I'll add to them too) and truly go nuts with the best of FW models... Which I painstakingly avoided with Legion's plastic only goal. There's something to be said about the power of restrictions, and equally letting go once you've built the stamina and skills in a given area. I want to make Legion look crude in comparison, and Space Wolves built out of the box look like toys.

I hope you enjoy the journey and feel free to engage in discussion and feedback.

Migs



A Lord and his hound - Wolf Lord Harkon Bloodmoon a few details from primer and very early look at first of the Wulfen.



Birthday treats and the warmth in which the frozen beasts will take shape...



And as always, also to be found here:
http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com/2014/09/vlka-fenryka-wulfenkind-attack.html

Here's my ticket, I'm along for the ride.

Veuve Clicquot? Fancy!

oh man, this is going to be good...
Space Wolves are my first love, too...
i am going to be stealing so many ideas from you...

great use of the Horus mini...
i look forward to seeing where this is going...

cheers
jah

Ohdearohdearohdearohdearohdear...
You are at it again Migs, this has the look of awsome to it.

Thanks guys! Hopefully it will be a few years of Awesome breaking out from the Warp!




Automatically Appended Next Post:

 ProfessionalAmateur wrote:
Veuve Clicquot? Fancy!

Spoiler:

It might not be fancy, I don't know much about Champagne

Costs less than Horus for sure And is a birthday present.

Yeah, it's a tasty champagne, so best just finish the bottle with the She-Who-Must-Be-Obeyed. If you spread that around over half a dozen glasses, it's just pearls before swines.

Definitely subscribing from the get-go on this one!

Awesome, Migs. I am reading Prospero Burns right now so I am especially excited. Having read Thousand Sons before, I had developed a rather negative impression of the Sons of Russ, but I am coming around.

The Blizzard theme is appropriate, and should give you plenty of satisfying challenges to overcome.

Using the Horus model as a "regular" Wolf Lord, though? And not a Primarch? Yeah....that's a whole new take on scale. What will you do when (eventually) a Primarch Wolf-King model comes out? I look forward to you "up-scaling" that.

What a cozy looking paint table. I'm Jealous!

Damn, yet another Plog to follow...

Will you post on the Legion of Plastic too ?

Will these guys be fighting inside the Eye of Terror itself? If so, I'm very curious to see how warped you're going to make the bases and terrain.

By the way, if you're going down that route, I could really recommend ADB's latest Talon of Horus!

Great start. Particularly interested to see your take on the Wulfen.

 Forlorn wrote:
What a cozy looking paint table. I'm Jealous!

I just wish I could keep my painting table that uncluttered!

Looking forward to seeing this one progress. I especially like the use of Horus as a Space Wolf

migsula

Costs less than Horus for sure And is a birthday present.

Good bubble worth drinking usually runs for about as much as Logar or about a Command Upgrade less depending on brand and age, for Horus, you'll get something awsome. Otherwise Cava is always nice and good bottles run for about a Legion Combi-Weapons kit up to a Calas Typhon in price if one wants less dramatic bubbles that still taste very spiffy.

Now update you crazy Soumileinen! we want our prescious pics..

 STC_LogisEngine wrote:


Good bubble worth drinking usually runs for about as much as Logar or about a Command Upgrade less depending on brand and age, for Horus, you'll get something awsome. Otherwise Cava is always nice and good bottles run for about a Legion Combi-Weapons kit up to a Calas Typhon in price if one wants less dramatic bubbles that still taste very spiffy.

Now update you crazy Soumileinen! we want our prescious pics..

Gauging wine prices by comparing them to Forgeworld minis. Now I've seen it all

This blog is already up to a brilliant start We've established a whole new value system for models too!

The Art of Preparation

It's only a week into the project that I fully realize how healthy this is and how much I needed this. Gone are the old restrictions, and I'm busy designing the new vision, new focus, and that is always a process of creation, but also elimination.

I think I will do a single model each month - part of the massive appeal of this new project. By the end of next year I will have an army of 15 warrior gods and wulfen beasts, and possibly some armor for them.

Last night I airbrushed all the base colors on the Lord and his base. Feels like cheating. Smooth as photoshop, fast as a rendering farm. I've got some new paints from spain, seen in the picture, that have simply stunning flesh tones. For somebody who has lived in the cold moonlight saturation for years and years, getting to paint a very realistic, feral, deep and vivid skin is quite a feast.

I also picked the palette last night. Seen in the picture below. And cleaned this bigger drawer that used to be for Legion paints. I will use a bunch of reds - something I almost avoided all together for Legion.

The full new back of tricks will include:
Airbrushing to get the overall direction of light, but the tool will not be visible at all in the finished piece. (the model air color palette is not pictured, 5 or so paints that I apply with the airbrush on Tamiya grey spray)
Vallejo and these new Acrylics 77 something, Tamiya acrylics applied as progressive wash like flows of highlights and shadow.
Oil paints! Full on weathering techniques I learnt doing the knight. (not in the picture)
Enamel filters (not in the picture)
pihments
pledge and tamiya flat medium varnish to get the exact gloss (lack of where I need it)
combination of metallics (acrylic and enamel) left unvarnished to really get that pop.
I believe this will result to the best miniatures I've ever painted, with a style that is distinctly mine, but also a fresh combination of different influences. First results in a week or so I would estimate.

Enamel filters? Do elaborate...

Such a tease...

Looking to be epic.

I also just noticed that Angron's arm seems to be attached to a thunder hammer. Can I assume the Angron model is going to be the basis of a giant Wulfen?

This is going to be very enjoyable. Subscribed!

Very exciting! I can't wait to see what you do with this new approach.

I'm equally interested in both your switch to FW resin and all the new painting techniques and I hope you document your methods for the edification of the masses.

Oh I wonder if the Warhammer Forge Skin Wolves will be making an appearance? Or maybe they're too bestial ...

 pantheralegionnaire wrote:


Using the Horus model as a "regular" Wolf Lord, though? And not a Primarch? Yeah....that's a whole new take on scale. What will you do when (eventually) a Primarch Wolf-King model comes out? I look forward to you "up-scaling" that.

There will be seneschal's, banner men, servitors and other humans in the force to really ram that scale home! When Leman Russ is eventually released, I will convert him into another leader, like this first Lord. Infact, I plan to build quite a few of the Primarch's into Wolf heroes of different kind. Angron is too recognizable to be used wholly, but he will donate parts across the project.


Automatically Appended Next Post:

 weirdingway wrote:

Oh I wonder if the Warhammer Forge Skin Wolves will be making an appearance? Or maybe they're too bestial ...

Not too bestial. I ordered them a few weeks ago, and cannot wait to see where I will go with them. Might convert them heavily into count as thunder wolf cavalry. Lots of alternative plans too.

Consider my breath bated.

Sign me up.

Awesome, man. What an atypical (yet somehow typical for you) use of the Primarch models. I'm excited to see these new flesh tones and reds, too--what a great contrast they will be to your moonlit Legion figures, too.

I can't wait to see the conversions, and hopefully given your one-a-month plan, you will have some new Primarch models to work with along the way as well.

Ah I'll be interested to see how those scalecolour paints come out. I've been looking at the flesh and steel sets recently and contemplating a purchase

Yay, a Migsula blog!

Thanks guys,

I spent another few hours painting, to realize this is going to be the worst model to start with, as it is so detailed and has so little skin visible, you won't see the hopefully beautiful grey armor and the contrasting bestial skin and splashes of gore.

It will take a long time to paint too, but it is so enjoyable to paint single minis. It doesn't matter how long it takes.

I need to make a quick business trip, so there will be bit of a brake after sunday, but still expect the first fully finished model within two weeks.

 endtransmission wrote:
Ah I'll be interested to see how those scalecolour paints come out. I've been looking at the flesh and steel sets recently and contemplating a purchase

So far worth every penny! The shades are great and they are incredibly full of pigment!

Subbed

So far so awesome - looking forward to the new direction, Migs!

Excellent! Happy late birthday, by the way. Fantastic start to another epic thread.

Thanks

Check out the photo John sent me:

http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com/2014/09/vlka-fenryka-inspiration-and-another.html

I had a good few nights and the 1st model is more than half way done. These days the most painting I get done at the time is one or 2 hours, and the only way to get anything finished is to be disciplined and do something every almost every night.

I applied an oil wash and an enamel filter last night. Since some folks asked about the filter, it's a product, by www.migproductionswebshop.com . This particular hue is called "panzer grey blue filter"or something similar. A great way to add a little variation to the grey. I also use their Abteilung oils.

The thing with the oils is that they need a long time to dry and it so happens I had to leave on a business trip and the paint should be conveniently cured when I get back on Friday. Then a few more nights and I should finally be ready to show you some pictures.

Fantastic to see you back on the horse, Migs; your blogs are always a treat. It's very cool to see so early on the ambition here will match (if not exceed) the Alpha Legion. This is nicely summed up in the difference in style between your and JB's Horus; really shows how you can push the potential of a model once you strip it of an preconceptions of in-universe identity.

The theme of a warp blizzard is an evocative one; uniquely 40k and perfectly suited to your approach. The confusion and limited vision inherent to a blizzard nicely reflect on the contradictory nature of the Space Wolves – especially the 13th Company. Waiting with baited breath on the first of the Vlka Fenryka! Any plans for Abnett-style leather masks etc.? I always thought that was a great touch and would provide a great opportunity for freehand knotwork.

Hmm, this means there's a free talon left...you know that now somebody has to pick up FW's version of Abaddon and add that left over Talon of Horus to him to make an 'update' on that 2nd edition era model....

JB's Horus conversion is outstanding.

It's great how even although it's the same base model the touches that you've both taken lead to very different outcomes.

It really makes me want to pick up one of the Primarchs and try my hand at it.

 Apologist wrote:
Fantastic to see you back on the horse,
...

Waiting with baited breath on the first of the Vlka Fenryka! Any plans for Abnett-style leather masks etc.? I always thought that was a great touch and would provide a great opportunity for freehand knotwork.

Thanks Mate!

Yes, there are plans for leather masks in places It's an interesting detail to balance as there hasn't been a miniature or artwork representation really. I've been sketching and thinking about it though. At least the human models in the project will get leather masks of some kind. At least some of them..

 migsula wrote:

 Apologist wrote:
Fantastic to see you back on the horse,
...

Waiting with baited breath on the first of the Vlka Fenryka! Any plans for Abnett-style leather masks etc.? I always thought that was a great touch and would provide a great opportunity for freehand knotwork.

Thanks Mate!

Yes, there are plans for leather masks in places It's an interesting detail to balance as there hasn't been a miniature or artwork representation really. I've been sketching and thinking about it though. At least the human models in the project will get leather masks of some kind. At least some of them..

I am excited to hear this. I really liked Abnett's idea of the leather masks and also the laquered hair, thus:

“By then, Aun Helwintr had felt the terrible forces that had been released in the temple precinct. Ominous in his pelt and his long black cloak, his white hair twisted and lacquered into horns, he stepped into the crystal hall behind us, forming with his hands the warding gestures that all rune priests are taught, the gestures of banishment and aversion. ”

Excerpt From: Dan Abnett. “Prospero Burns.” iBooks.

Any thoughts of attempting this? I guess it might look cheesy, but could contribute to the intimidating "war visage" effect.

Further, given the prophesy you have quoted at the beginning, might you look to create a Heresy-era "Bear" (Bjorn) either one-handed, or "fell handed"? That would be exciting to behold.

I've been re-reading Prosper Burns on my trip and making notes from iBooks like you. It's a brilliant book and a very convenient tool. I have so many ideas born out of reading it again. As always, taking inspiration, but going to slightly different places too

Cannot wait to be back on the project tomorrow night with all of this bottled up energy to spend on Hjarkor Rödmoon, called Lord Hjar, Jarl.

Cool name scheme – pseudo-Scandinavian enough to be Fenrisian, different enough to be far future, and with some nice English associations.

A book that sprang to mind when I read your plans for this project was Neil Gaiman's American Gods. It's a very readable book that blends various mythologies together in a very convincing and realistic mode; and besides that, it's beautifully written. If you get a spare day or two, I think you'll get a lot out of it.

In addition, you might appreciate the Mabinogion, a collection of traditional Welsh mythology/folklore – some of the stories it contains have some wonderfully evocative touches that could tie in with the dreamlike quality of the Eye of Terror – particularly The Dream of Rhonabwy and The Dream of Macsin Wledig.

Hope that's useful; on tenterhooks to see the paintwork for the Vlka!

Subbed, so I can live vicariously through your spectacularly extravagant work.

Gentlemen,

Lord Hjar has been painted and I am ready to face the photographic hardship of trying to get a hundred subtle shades of grey blues and grey browns to show. Hopefully with some success tonight.

I already took a long glance at the bits box. Pure, raw, Warhammer gothic waiting to be hacked and built in unimaginable ways and I already have ideas for a dozen very characterful models to follow Lord Hjar. One by one.

migs

 migsula wrote:
Gentlemen,

Lord Hjar has been painted and I am ready to face the photographic hardship of trying to get a hundred subtle shades of grey blues and grey browns to show. Hopefully with some success tonight.

I already took a long glance at the bits box. Pure, raw, Warhammer gothic waiting to be hacked and built in unimaginable ways and I already have ideas for a dozen very characterful models to follow Lord Hjar. One by one.

migs

Hooray!

The first moment of truth. Lord of the Wulfen. A hundred subtle shades of Grey. Eyes of burning black mercury prey from a sun-starved skin of scar tissue and a ten millennia of winter.

Very very hard to photograph the grey hues, and to get the wide range of gloss effect, from the sparkle of the metal, to the sheen of the frosted areas, to the matt of the wolf pelt and armor, to the glow of the runes (which fails the most, and show I need to go back, add oomph and apply a thin ink glade for satin reflectivity)






and full photo dump:

http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com/2014/10/vlka-fenryka-hjarkor-rodmoon-called.html

Will add to Flickr (has the best compression) later today.

I also updated the first post to kick of this blog properly

Looking forward to your comments!

W00f! W00f!

Beautiful! That face is amazing. So smooth and yet so much depth.

Thanks guys!

He is an interesting starting point. There is very little flat armor to show off how well I can weather and add interest to it. This will obviously be sorted with many of the following models.

I've really combined everything I've learned and put it in a new context that hopefully pushes the results even further. Going back to black undercoat was really refreshing and a nice challenge after years and years. And overall working on something new is just so healthy.

I can barely contain the excitement of the stuff I am working on. A wulfen, a wolf priest, a wolf guard, and an iron priest are accumulating parts and forming in my head. I also have 4 more wulfen in sights and giant wolves without riders that will rep thunder-wolf cavalry...

I obviously also need to give you some size comparison shots. The sheer size of him, married to the tiny amazing detail that Eagan is such a master sculpting, makes a world of difference. He really is starting to feel more like a GW painting taking three dimensional form.

M

Fantastic man, thanks for the photos! I understand what you are saying about the photograph not capturing the difference in texture properly, but it's impressive nonetheless. With the cracks in the massive battle axe, there isn't a "glow" effect--did you do that intentionally? It might detract from the realistic overall appearance, but might add a different type of highlight to draw the eye.

I really like the spots of color too, especially the detail on the power claws--they really contrast to the 100 Shades of Grey....nice tie in to your Inquisition unit too, unintentional or not. Wolf Lord indeed, though--a scale shot (even with your Alpharius models?) would be awesome.

Thanks mate! Much appreciated.

Axe is intentional, what isn't captured very well, is I've used a tamiya snow weathering powder to gently frost the metal, and the see the black cracks as veins of darkness and ice that make the blade so lethal.

Scale shot is a must! I will do that soon, probably with some WIP stuff to share this weekend.

BTW, do you have any experience of the Ammobunker forums? I've heard great things and as I am looking for an active discussion around the blog, I decide to give it a go:

http://s3.zetaboards.com/The_Ammobunker/topic/7697037/1/

Woh. Somehow more impressive than actual Horus. It would be an honor to lose to an army that beautiful

Thanks. I'm hoping to share a bunch of WIP models this weekend!!

Very well executed Migs, you have to study the photos a bit to make out the different shades and hues but as you say, it's darn tricky to get subtle shifts and textures to come out properly in a picture.
And I do agree that the glowy bits can use a touch-up for a bit more impact, otherwise it is a lovely use of a limited palette. Keep up the wonderful work, it's very inspirational.

 migsula wrote:
Thanks mate! Much appreciated.

Axe is intentional, what isn't captured very well, is I've used a tamiya snow weathering powder to gently frost the metal, and the see the black cracks as veins of darkness and ice that make the blade so lethal.

Scale shot is a must! I will do that soon, probably with some WIP stuff to share this weekend.

BTW, do you have any experience of the Ammobunker forums? I've heard great things and as I am looking for an active discussion around the blog, I decide to give it a go:

http://s3.zetaboards.com/The_Ammobunker/topic/7697037/1/

Thanks Migs, for the clarification. I did go back and stare at the axe some more, and can see some of the "frost" you describe. It does look brutal and very hard, but somehow not very sharp...no criticism but it's not "shiny" like a lot of weapons are. That's cool; just a stylistic observation. Looks like something "The Kurgan" would carry...beaten out of meteoric iron or something. (Sorry for the obscure Highlander reference)

The text on the "oaths of moment" on his chest is amazing, too--great job getting some runes in there to break up the surface.

The famous flow, intriguing state of hobby bliss where ideas turn into beginnings and you feel like hiding in a bunker for a few days to just work on the models.

Ideas can be really fragile, fickle things that need to be exposed to others in the correct order. A WIP picture of a model in a project like this is like seeing a puzzle piece half finished. You can respect the craft and build intrigue, but then what.

And I hope that is part of the charm, enjoyable and a nice tease.

Last night was spent on the holiest of hobby times, sorting out a new brilliant bits box, where a dozen models was already sketched together in their respective compartment. I flirted with the idea of sharing a picture, but then felt like posting the inside of my brain on the inter web and decided to wait. I found a great quality tool box thing, that has little, medium and large yellow compartments inside that can not only be arranged to my liking, but also picked up to work on an individual model.

Today I have pictures of Bone crafting aides for a wolf priest that will be based on the Salamander Primarch, Vulkan. A Kraken slaying warrior god specialized in the arts of healing and death. The surgeons are sinister beings, crafted fro their purpose, wearing different animal skull masks and to be heavily detailed with chapter lore. Also featured is an Iron Priest in terminator armor, with an assault cannon. First of many Mechanicus themed things in the Rout of Terror. It's a simple conversion that strikes a nice balance between recognizable silhouette and novelty. I've thrown a toy space marine in there to show the scale.

It does look brutal and very hard, but somehow not very sharp...no criticism but it's not "shiny" like a lot of weapons are. That's cool; just a stylistic observation. Looks like something "The Kurgan" would carry...beaten out of meteoric iron or something.

Hah! I totally agree with you. It really does not look, and is not sharp. One genuine problem with GW axes that my painting hasn't really helped. The flat at the edge is probably 0.3-.05 wide, centimeters if it was real size... This is a great point you make and something I need to be mindful of with the future models. Sharpen them blades!

Fun times! I love the bone animal masks--very Abnett. And it's awesome to see the "toy" space marine, stacked on top of 3 Terminator bases, and its own base, and still looking ridiculously small. Well done on sticking to your ideology of scale.

Good call on the "real life" thickness of that (and others) axe blade--still it reminds me of medieval weapons I've seen in castles and so on. Smash somebody in the head with that thing, or on the collarbone, and you're going to cleave things. Anyway, it looks brutal, and dangerous, and that fits with the narrative you've written perfectly.

Anyway, as painting progresses, I do hope to see some more flesh tones--you were very excited about that initially, and there are some cool Space Wolf faces. Going with the Abnett fluff, I would love to see some "snout-like" ones. Exaggerated fangs are a characteristic he describes more than once, and it adds to the bestiality of their appearance.

Those bone crafters are built using the new wrack kit, if I'm not mistaken? Clever idea – they've got a non-Chaotic but still sinister look to the tools, and the skinny but muscular look is fitting for deathworlders. The only detail that looks a bit off to me is the bonesaw on the hooded one, and that's because it's iconic of the original models for me. A nice small axe held near the handle would help rebalance them towards the Wolves for me... but I'm sure you've got plenty more ideas that'll rein 'em in a bit

I was reading about Anglo-Saxon medicine the other day, and this quote jumped out as fitting for the 40k feel:

In our world of healthcare systems in crisis and general reliance on prescription or non-prescription medicines and a variety of alternative therapies, we are not so far from the charms and prayers, the herbal folklore and amulets of the Anglo-Saxons. Their frequent use of the number nine in healing rituals (charms or prayers are directed to be repeated nine times) may have been a way of marking the period of time for a salve to take effect or a mixture to boil, or may have been a ritual. A shadow of the ritualistic element perhaps survives in directions for antibiotics to be taken ‘three times a day for seven days’.

I thought this might spark some ideas for you – perhaps some little bone pouches, leech vials or even the little dead birds from the Bretonnian Men-at-Arms sprue might be a nice way to bulk out and detail the bone crafters?

The Iron Priest looks cool, but I'm most interested in the Grey Slayer(?) with the hammer. Exciting times ahead!

Pantheralegionnaire: Thanks. Totally, much more flesh on the first wulfen already and more on the way.

Apologist: I understand the concern. In the fluff weapons made of death world predator bone are mentioned, and I was going to paint the blade to match the bone elsewhere on the models. A small, mean axe (from Empire kits) would not be a bad alternative though! Hmmm...

I love the medicine quote. It's such a key point to understand that a Wolf Priest is not a chaplain in dogmatic religious purpose, but a shaman apothecarion in a survival context, as religions of hunter gatheres (and Fenris) were about surviving and making meanings.

Thanks for your thoughtful feedback gents!

Evening by evening, an hour or so at a time the work continues. I realize that for the sake of myself and you, finding a good balance/cadence between painted and wip is stuff is quite key. At the same time, I really want to feel free to enjoy what ever feels like the most fun thing to work on at the time. Feel like it's individual models, but with some "factory" style benefits. An example being how airbrushing one model at a time is a little silly really.

So I've got the Iron Priest and the Wulfen ready for Airbrushing and I think I will finish the 3 surgeons for painting before the next airbrush session. I have also worked on the Wolf Priest (Vulcan) who is going to be the most representative model of the ambition so far, and a Wolf Guard leader with the mark of Wulfen (Gorgon) who looks just plain bestial - like Braveheart turned into a Space Marine and cursed by the Wulfen.

Pictures again this weekend. Aiming for a weekly cadence should be neat, with something finished each month.

Will you also be using Mortarion in some way? I can imagine that Lorgar, Angron and Fulgrim would be a bit tricky since their armor doesn't resemble the Astartes Power Armour in any way, but Mortarion could still make a convincing Space Marine, maybe an Iron Priest even (in combination of some parts of Ferrus Manus' backpack).

 migsula wrote:

I always think that people who convert Forgeworld models must have a very strong vision for their project to contemplate altering such an expensive figure. This figure certainly delivers and the grey is very nuanced for such a potentially 'flat' colour.

Very nice conversion. I had trouble finding a good axe for my own version and just kit bashed parts together instead but I like your's better. Also, thanks for the comparison pic of the gal vorbak with him. I plan on eventually getting them and using them as truescale chaos marines for a defunct RPG in which horus is a truescale Space Wolf (amongst other uses) so the side by side pic is helpful.

It's getting pretty intense in California. There is so much insane stuff in the works now that I had to stop and share this before diving into painting and finishing some models. There will be a myriad of really strange seneschals and thralls, but I am also really pushing the Marines themselves to be VERY gothic.

In my excitement to returning to my first love army, I have decided to aim for a full 2000pt army within next year. Made of heroes and other expensive beings, it is not entirely unrealistic. Not with the momentum.

I love the game effect of Thunder Wolves, and the new plastic models are really brilliant, but the idea of Marines riding wolves is just silly (vs. plain stupid for Logan's sled?). So my cavalry will be made with just the wolves and their respective bionics to rep equipment, but the Wulfen Lord will just run and hunt with his wolves!

Would very much appreciate hearing your comments on Lord Balewolf.



and more pictures: Legion of Plastic


Migs

I'm surprised to see how well normal Marine/Terminator parts seem to fit with the Primarch models!

 Malika2 wrote:
I'm surprised to see how well normal Marine/Terminator parts seem to fit with the Primarch models!

They do and they don't in a way. I can't speak for migsula but I have two primarchs (Ferrus and Horus) and they're not the same size. While I haven't tried converting Ferrus yet, I had to combine two terminator arms into one to lengthen it to make a stormbolter arm for my SW Horus. When I test fitted a single arm, it looked too short. YMMV of course. The axe migsula used for his horus conversion is actually from the dreadnought so you can see how there is a size difference. Ferrus on the other hand is smaller and only a bit bigger than kitbashed truescale terminators so the arms fit better on him than horus.




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 migsula wrote:

I love the game effect of Thunder Wolves, and the new plastic models are really brilliant, but the idea of Marines riding wolves is just silly (vs. plain stupid for Logan's sled?). So my cavalry will be made with just the wolves and their respective bionics to rep equipment, but the Wulfen Lord will just run and hunt with his wolves!

Would very much appreciate hearing your comments on Lord Balewolf

I'm a big fan of your Horus conversion (probably more than my own) but the Ferrus one doesn't really work for me on several levels. I'm not sure if it is the bits but he seems more White Scar-ish than Space Wolf. Also, the arms don't really work for me. I think he'd look alot better either with the GK Terminator shoulder pads or with kitbashed Cataphractii ones instead of the normal versions. They just don't seem right in the proportions and the level of intricacy.

The Axe is from Logan.

We seem to have the reverse take on the models. To me Ferrus is bigger than Horus. Clearly. This has been echoed on the blogger and email comments I've gotten from people working with same models.

Looking forward to seeing what you do with your conversions! That's the best part of the hobby and by far the best way to do constructive criticism. To show a better way


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 Malika2 wrote:
I'm surprised to see how well normal Marine/Terminator parts seem to fit with the Primarch models!

If you pick the right arm, as there seems a wide range in size and mount them just right on the torso piece, they look ok. I'm also using Ork! arms on this and other models actually. Same caveats apply.

Epic--I love the face, and the ferocity it expresses. The shield is great, and I love the way you have incorporated the Thunderwolf onto the (massive) base.

My only criticism is the choice of the Dark Angels sword. Is this intentional--perhaps taken as a trophy from a defeated DA champion when re-fighting the Lion/Russ match? Otherwise, I think an axe would probably fit better for a warrior of the Rout.

And to chime in on the size issue, Vulkan is supposed to be the biggest Primarch, in terms of raw size and strength. Not sure how that might factor into an army composition but figured I'd mention it.

 pantheralegionnaire wrote:

And to chime in on the size issue, Vulkan is supposed to be the biggest Primarch, in terms of raw size and strength. Not sure how that might factor into an army composition but figured I'd mention it.

That's cool! Thanks for the info - it makes sense.

The sword is still under review I like it for being the most precisely engineered GW sword. It is actually sharp and straight. I need a sword for game play reasons, and because there will be so many axes and hammers elsewhere in the army, but would very much appreciate tips on where to find one that is sharp and crisp and fitting.

m

I think you'll find that there isn't a lot of 'definitive comparison' info out there regarding the Primarchs.

Magnus is usually described as the biggest, and until recently, the Alpha Legion had a Primarch almost as tall as Horus with the marines being unusually tall as well...

But the later background seemed to suggest that Alpharius was shorter than the other Primarchs, enabling other marines to easily pretend to be the Primarch.

As for the Dark Angels sword, there are a lot of ways the character could have gotten it. But keep in mind that a lot of the Fallen who escaped the aftermath at Caliban ended up in the Eye of Terror. Would be interesting to see what the Spaces Wolves would think of the Dark Angels after finding out about this little split within the Legion...

We've also been told that everything is canon, more or less.

I prefer the excellent Index Astartes Alpha Legion article for that!

I've followed lots of your blogs migs, and I can't wait to see where this new one takes you!

i like the sword...
to me, there is nothing on the sword that makes it look specifically DA, like feathers for example...
the shape of the blade is cool...

i used a DA blade to replace the broken one on Commander Culln, and on that mini the blade seems to evoke the shape of a scorpion, and thus not bring DA's to mind when looking at it...

here it just looks suitably barbaric and brutal...

keep up the good work!!!

cheers
jah

 jah-joshua wrote:
i like the sword...
to me, there is nothing on the sword that makes it look specifically DA, like feathers for example...
the shape of the blade is cool...

...

here it just looks suitably barbaric and brutal...

Thanks, that's exactly how I see it!

And thank god for the Primarch size comments, finally the bottle neck has opened and the topic is getting proper momentum!

It IS definitely a large, scary (and sharp--good point, Migs, especially given the earlier discussion of how dull the axes are) sword! I don't dislike it; just recognized it and wondered about the choice. Certainly for game play it makes sense to have it as a sword--the Power Axe/Maul/Sword rules are significant to be sure.

Anyway, in fluff terms, I do like the concept that he took it off a Dark Angels champion after fighting the rematch challenge--of course, it could just be a scary sword.

Going back to the Primarch discussion, I got the size reference from the HH novel "Vulkan Lives" where it states it explicitly. Of course, as pointed out, that could just be the novelist's assertion. The model is certainly bulky--his shoulder armor is very like the Dreadnought greaves and compared to Fulgrim or Lorgar, he's clearly bigger. Angron also looks pretty huge, though, and his aggressive charge posture would look pretty good on a Wolf Guard...

I'm having such a blast the project has fast spiraled into a focused, grand vision. Where Legion ebb and flow took years and years of work, creating the Rout may be a thunderclap of a year to get to a full warrior band at 2000 pts. My rout will be a band of ridiculously diverse beings that still share a common, strictly focused, raw and austere aesthetic.

There are major advances to report. And possibly pictures Monday to stay on the weekly cadence.

I have done all the airbrush base color work, and then hand painted the skin for three new models. Balewolf, the first Wulfen and the Assault Cannon Iron Priest terminator. Airbrushing still feels like cheating. It is such a fantastic tool to apply zenith highlight and incredibly smooth depth. I think it combines quite well with my weatherly and gritty brush work to create something that really doesn't look tool driven, has enough technical definition but also emotion. I will now switch gears to finishing Jarl Balewolf, as him and the wolf are fast becoming the core of this whole exercise. The visual heart of what imagery I am after. Finishing them may take a week of long evenings. But should be worth your wait.

I really enjoy painting these. I get the same meditative kick out of it as I always do, but it doesn't feel representative or so utterly unforgiving as the water colourly flowing shading of say Alpharius and Alpharius. It's also very clear that I am doing something very new to myself. Black primer, airbrush, oils, Legion learnings, plus all the vehicle painting learnings... Very heavy use of pigments.

After a week of Army builder gymnastics, I've put together a 2000pt group that can do the Sky Warriors proud on the battle field and be fun to build. One take away during Legion was that it is actually a really fun game and I want to play more. But it's annoying to build so much random stuff that doesn't really work so well as an army. - and this happens by default if you take years to build as the game changes so much. 7th Edition Space wolves still have all the hall marks of what have always been my favorite playing force. Speed, very active in all the different game phases and best suited for ripping enemies apart in close combat. I have on purpose stayed away from Psykers though. They don't work so well with my vision for the 13th, and being able to re-learn the game and 7th edition without magic will be helpful step.

The Company of the Great Wolf supplement has proven the perfect platform to build my heroes, and again, I will use Sentinels of Mars (Terra) allied department to build some of my loved Mechanicus things. I will later ad a small guard component using the solar auxilia.

In the Wolf Codex, there is a great little passage that describes the tunnels, halls, ducts and caves of Fang being full of heavily armed thralls, servitors, wolves and the combinations of the three. Building these will be a ton of fun. And my bit box is filling up with concepts that make the Surgical Thralls look like Neighbors.

What has made me most excited though, is the idea to outsource the Drop pod and vehicle pool manual labor. I have hired the great folks of Frontline Gaming to purchase, clean, assemble and prime black 3 Drop Pods and 2 Storm Wolves, that I will then painstakingly paint to look like massive things of steel and adamantium. This is the stuff that has always been pure pain for me, and realizing I can concentrate on creating amazing models and adding value only where there is value to add on the vehicles is a real epiphany for somebody working 60 hour weeks.

As ever, excited to hear your thoughts.

Sounds cool! I look forward to seeing what you convert next.

Awesome blog
Keep up the good work!
Regards
Mark

Hope the links work, because Rhuncir Gorevlkae says hello!

Rhuncir Gorevlkae, called Lord Balewolf, Jarl by migsula, on Flickr

Rhuncir Gorevlkae, called Lord Balewolf, Jarl by migsula, on Flickr

Rhuncir Gorevlkae, called Lord Balewolf, Jarl by migsula, on Flickr



Automatically Appended Next Post:
Okay, images don't work :/ anybody have experience of linking from FLICKR?

I suggest uploading to dakka rather than flickr.

FLICKR is a notorious hater of hot-linking.

So you are saying that FLICKR is a fickle mistress eh?

Well DAKKA is a notorious killer of picture quality The compression is so severe/archaic. Interestingly, the hot linking worked on other forums. Too bad my favorite all time web forum, Dakka, needs to be the worst user experience...

I'll link from blogger.

Really? Because I don't have a problem with Dakka compression. Plus, if you're posting here, you might as well attach here.

Balkwolf is done (minus a pool of blood and spatter on the base after final varnish on the base)

Let me know what you think!

Wow!

Fantastic!

Also, as I'm no expert, if Dakka has some issues with photo compression and quality, please open up a thread in NUTS & BOLTS so Legoburner can hear about it and address it - thanks!

:O

Hmm, will this be the beginning of a new trend?

I really love the Jarl and his Wolf. The use of the red as a spot color (even on the wolf's mouth) really helps--this is a big model after all--and I especially like the wolf emblem on the right shoulder. The sword looks terrific at the end of the day, and the Daemon head also works, in part because of the red again. I think the pool of blood will only add in this regard and will be a nice contrast to the very urban and realistic looking base.

I love the whiteness of the bones--very realistic--and the intensity and ferocity on his face is great. Great fangs, too.

My only question would be whether you want to tie in a different spot color on the wolf's bionic eye. Yellowy orange? Blue doesn't really feel right, but it strikes me that something there would brighten and break up the wolf, and also draw the eye to the face.

Anyway, fantastic as always, and I love it that you are delegating the tedium of assembly and priming, but saving the fun painting for yourself! Great use of time which, as you have pointed out, is limited. I also am very glad that you are running with the concept, and that your energy and enthusiasm are so high! Keep it up! Hopefully Forge World will give you another couple of good Primarch Models that you can adapt.

If not, your plans of the Mechanicum, thrall/wolf/servitors, and Imperial troops can surely keep you busy and pleased, and will be a joy to behold no doubt. The red will work with Mechanicum, but any thoughts of coloration on the Imperial troops? You always do a great job of making the entire force coherent, and I look forward to seeing the 2000-point army come together!

Thanks guys! So good to get some comments.

Pantheralegionnaire: I'm pondering the eye too. It's currently with this uber reflective metallic, so I know a touch of ink here and there will make a nice effect, and the plan was red, but also there is enough red. With each project I tend to decide NOT to use one primary color to make it tougher and to have a distinct visual. With Legion it was Red, this time it'll be either green or blue. Likely green. Which points to blue

I'm absolutely positive Forge World will cater this project so nicely. Cannot even describe how amazing it will be when they eventually do Leman Russ and actual SW kits. But I'm really happy I started before all the toys. The Mechanicus stuff will still have a wolfy theme, and I think I will try to find something different than a lot of red. Currently I think a ton of metal, as I'm really enjoying the metallics at the moment.

I decided to edit a post about different aspects that have come up. For the (Alpha) Legion project, at times random posts about inspiration, vision and what drives decision making seemed to be of big interest.

In the new Space Wolves codex, an applicant sees their Bio Mass grow by 80% when they receive the Canis Helix, and that on top of sturdy, tall, scandinavianesque physique of what I imagine the people of Fenris possess. Astartes are described as warriors gods in all the background. This is where I start. Legion was about doing my take on what the Plastic Space Marine kits should be. This is a celebration of Forge World's vision and taking everything up a notch as pieces of art that can stand on their own. I want my Sky Warriors to feel and look like the Warrior Gods they are. "True-scale or Art-scale" can be missing the point. It's not about numbers, it's about expressing the correct feeling.

For that end, hopefully many of you get the opportunity to see these in real life, with the right reference set of other miniatures. Until then, it's time for me to work on and finish a few human sized beings to give you that reference.

I am Finnish and grew up with Scandinavian folklore, children's books and general aesthetics, in the seasons of utter cold and darkness and endless days of the summer. So indirectly or directly that is one key inspiration. I draw from the same Northern European imagery Games Workshop and their Art Direction also drinks deeply from. I've spent three years of my life in the Uk and now three years in California. Both key influences.

The eyes on the wolf and the Sky Warriors are black metallic. This wonderful dark metallic paint that makes it as if the dark pit is staring at you what ever the angle. In the fluff the wolf eyes are described as golden, while Altansar Eldar and other good forces stuck in the Eye of Terror have black eyes. Putting the two together here.

Where Shaddes off Greye had a bunch of colors, each with grey added in, here I have a lot less, but full intense skin and reds for example. Very different aesthetic! Almost night and day, without pun intended. Legion in between was so very colorful, yet avoided red all together. Avoiding one primary color has been a great successful differentiator, and this time that might be avoiding green. And introducing some blue here and there.

I also nearly felt there are too many eye catchers on Balewolf. So much detail, bone, fur, gem, metal, skin, and if it wasn't for tying many of them together in categories of color and feel, the model would be overwhelming and lack focus/impact.

Basing has always been a very critical part of my miniatures. I feel I have consistently gone beyond what most other modelers have done with every single miniature in the army. It's about setting the world, giving a glimpse of the weather and wear and feel of the place. A place I define. I have used MIG city dirt and flat earth pigments to establish the base hue, so it is very brown grey and has a clear step change from both the Sky Warrior's and the Wolf's hue. And like everything with me that is very intentional. When the wolves go war, in art, they always bring the cold and the grey with them. That's how I feel and that's what I want to keep experimenting with. I will shy away from Snow, as that overly defines the terrain, but I want to continue to study subtle frosting effects and ice.

Good stuff, man. I really liked the shot of the two models together on the Legion of Plastic site. It's going to be so fun watching it come together. It's pretty ambitious, too. 2000 points is a lot in 40k, so it's impressive that you are shooting high.

Thanks for the detailed explanation of your method; omitting a primary color is really an interesting self-imposed rule. Guess you've got to challenge yourself. I did see "more" in your base looking at it following your explanation, too. I actually have red-green color blindness, and I know that disadvantages me sometimes, especially when it comes to greys, browns, and, ironically, pinks--which look the same to my brain. But I definitely can see the contrast of the base with the greys on the Space Wolf and the Wolf, now that you point it out--that is another feature of color blindness. If you tell me it's a certain color, I can go "Oh yeah...and my brain can see it once it's pointed out."

Anyway, I'm glad your muse is working.

But 2000 pts. in 40k, does this mean you'll be doing whole squads of marines? I guess you would need to get multiple of the same Primarch model then to get enough marines?

I always love hearing your motivations and musings. I love working within restraints and imposing limitations on myself when doing my job (graphic design) and tend to work in very limited palettes on each project. But in my miniature painting I tend towards using many (probably too many) colors, most likely due to trying to incorporate too wide a range of color inspirations.

I really love the range of grays you're working with here, as well as the play between the dull surfaces and the metallics.

Can I ask a technical question about your basing? I've always loved the dry powdery feeling you get and I assume this due to the MIG pigments. I've been thinking about ordering some because I'm unhappy with my own bases. How do you apply the pigment? With a solvent or just rubbed on? And do you seal it afterwords? I love how dry and dusty your bases look but have been reading that sealing tends to kill that dry pigment look.

Thanks gents.

Weirdingway - I apply the pigments mixed to some paint for adhesion and plenty of water. It dries super matte and realistic. I seal it by airbrushing Johnson clear mixed with Tamiya matte medium. Testers dulcet spray works well too.

Malika - there will squads of terminators (built from among other things the Forge World possessed Word Bearers) and thunder wolves (GW kit without riders) and Thralls and servitors and different Mechanicus constructs.... It'll all become clear in time

Hmm, Terminators built from the possessed Word Bearers, whilst 'normal' Marines are the size of Primarch models? Hmm, odd, but knowing you it will most likely kick a lot of ass!

With every single army or squad project I've ever done, I've taken a new step - usually for the better. Some of the biggest failures have led to the biggest successes. Like the utterly plain and lifeless first take on Inquisitor Silas, and the explosion of bravery that turned him into such a visceral piece that immediately spun a retinue of grim darkness. I have purposefully tried to learn or achieve something with each project. Tried to combat mannerism, the plague of even the greatest of artists. I see an incredible amount of extremely talented painters who've completely stagnated to repeating what works for them (and at times very well I should add). I am too curious to stop experimenting and searching. With the Rout it is the same, yet different. I worked on Legion for so long, and learned so much, while staying at a fairly constant level in terms of quality that this reset has been fantastic.

Going from a water painterly work on white undercoat, to zenith oomph, understated realism, with very intense and deep metallics and plenty of flat bone and deep red in the mix. It's a fundamental new style, yet recognizably mine I think. The first 4 models I've been painting have each though me something important.

The fact that this time it's going to be a very curated collection, a very clear vision and not a collection of sub themes that span years, makes it quite interesting. I want to put the entire lot together in a year. I feel almost like a movie director might, or so I'd imagine . The kind who writes his own stuff and shoots it too. Different pieces are coming together. Ideas need to be evaluated on a whole new level. Not just that a good idea is great, it needs to be the RIGHT idea. Something that enhances everything else in the army. One key challenge is to do this without the backdrop. With every unit a centerpiece in its own way.

I'm guessing that a beautiful collection of calm Solar Auxilia could be the follow on to create the calm.

I'm enjoying building, painting, narrating the storyline and working out the army mechanics. All at the same time. I'm hand picking key drivers from Abnett's Prospero Burns, and each and every edition of the Space Wolves codex. There are some real gems in there. The way the current one describes the things that hunt the vast labyrinth of the Fang, or how the previous talks about the 13th.

It's becoming clear my Company is returning from the Eye of Terror changed. And with a direct link to the lost. The Taboo of all taboos for the Sky Warriors. Yet also what they have been searching for. The premise for the next great hunt, and a study of good and evil, of those deepest grey areas of loyalty. It's clear there is something in the subject matter that deeply attracts me. Like Alpha Legion, like the Inquisition, all so horribly grey to do good. I love the added twist of Space Wolves' hatred against the Inquisition, and even the Ministorum. The Vlka Fenryka history is ridden with bloodshed against the tyranny and dogma of said institutions... one of the very very few forces in the universe who can go unpunished.

The fact that these feral, savage beasts, are the most noble, honorable and humane defenders of the imperium of man. That the All Father's executioners are it's most keen defenders of the weak is a fantastic storyline.

Hold that thought.

migs

PS. I have progress on the Wolf Priests bone crafters. A special order to tend the Wulfen perhaps. There is still a lot of detail to add. I have purposefully added detail that will force me to paint something I haven't tried before. Like glass orbs filled with blood and healing balms.

I love the animal masks, especially on the big guy. (Man, that Nurgle model gets around!) Are you going to try cowls as described in "Prospero Burns?"

The Cairn Wraith conversion doesn't seem to fit in to me, though. I am sure you can tie it in with the paint scheme, but it seems very high-tech (the "tail" and the fact that it's floating) unlike the almost shamanistic feel of the other models.

I haven't commented so far as I wasn't sure I could be constructive. I love the project but I have some reservations.

I think the painting is absolutely flawless, really love the way you have disguised the airbrushing and I love that instead of painting in a Golden Daemon - 'show off and highlight every little detail' type way you have gone for an understated overall effect. Also I think the faces are the best I have ever seen, the paint work on Bloodmoon's face is exceptional, soft and natural. It almost looks like the resin has been stained that colour rather than painted, I have no idea how you've achieved it.

I'm not quite sold on the conversions yet though. I think Bloodmoon looks too stock for my tastes while Balewolf doesn't quite work for me. Perhaps it is just the big plastic wolf, I think they are quite jarring next to Forgeworld levels of detail, but I suppose there is no option. It's a shame Warhammer forge has no alternative wolves.

Oddly I've come across some similar issues with a project I am working on, and I've even been making some models that look rather similar to your bone crafters (although fortunately they are a totally different concept despite sharing some parts). I wish I had found that bird skull though! Is that from an ogre kit? I think these guys look like really solid conversions, although they too might look a bit plastic next to the primarchs. I am also not keen on the cairn wraith but for some reason I seem to just have a grudge against that particular model!

The scale of the marines is great and the core concept - of using the best models available all together in one place - is obviously pretty bulletproof. I would love to be able to paint skin like you do, if you ever feel like sharing a tutorial.

 pantheralegionnaire wrote:
I love the animal masks, especially on the big guy. (Man, that Nurgle model gets around!) Are you going to try cowls as described in "Prospero Burns?"

The Cairn Wraith conversion doesn't seem to fit in to me, though. I am sure you can tie it in with the paint scheme, but it seems very high-tech (the "tail" and the fact that it's floating) unlike the almost shamanistic feel of the other models.

Thanks. This is a different Nurgle model, one of the new knights So same but different I guess. And I totally share your concern. Right now I am pushing to find where the stuff brakes and or strays too far the wrong way. I want to build really weird stuff though, and have two models in the works that are a lot weirder. As the puzzle forms, I'll decide fit over individual coolness.




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 Bruticus wrote:
I haven't commented so far as I wasn't sure I could be constructive. I love the project but I have some reservations.

I think the painting is absolutely flawless, really love the way you have disguised the airbrushing and I love that instead of painting in a Golden Daemon - 'show off and highlight every little detail' type way you have gone for an understated overall effect. Also I think the faces are the best I have ever seen, the paint work on Bloodmoon's face is exceptional, soft and natural. It almost looks like the resin has been stained that colour rather than painted, I have no idea how you've achieved it.

I'm not quite sold on the conversions yet though. I think Bloodmoon looks too stock for my tastes while Balewolf doesn't quite work for me. Perhaps it is just the big plastic wolf, I think they are quite jarring next to Forgeworld levels of detail, but I suppose there is no option. It's a shame Warhammer forge has no alternative wolves.

Oddly I've come across some similar issues with a project I am working on, and I've even been making some models that look rather similar to your bone crafters (although fortunately they are a totally different concept despite sharing some parts). I wish I had found that bird skull though! Is that from an ogre kit? I think these guys look like really solid conversions, although they too might look a bit plastic next to the primarchs. I am also not keen on the cairn wraith but for some reason I seem to just have a grudge against that particular model!

The scale of the marines is great and the core concept - of using the best models available all together in one place - is obviously pretty bulletproof. I would love to be able to paint skin like you do, if you ever feel like sharing a tutorial.

Thanks mate. Between the praise, you are so critical it's a welcome challenge. I'm not going to defend or argue my decisions, but appreciate the feedback. It's like a pact really. Permission for me to be critical with the lovely work you produce too. But will also help moving forward so keep going!

Sometimes, when you do a drawing in perspective and feel like it looks a little odd, flipping the paper around, to see the mirror image often reveals exactly what was wrong. I also think the best criticisms is to show how to do something better. Not always applicable obviously. Ultimately if my work doesn't draw dislike and criticism it is not relevant work.

I don't understand the criticism on the wolf. I got it at Ammobunker too. I think it's a fantastic sculpt, captures canine feel and motion beautifully. Perhaps there is a step change in resolution of detail, I can appreciate that, Eagan in was would have done it differently, vs. somebody in the studio in CAD, but then the comparison is mostly between armor detail and fur. things that don't really compare to begin with.

On the skin, can't address enough how important getting the right shade is. And the Scale 75 paints I've been using are FANTASTIC.

Thanks for taking the time to be critical.

Between the praise, you are so critical it's a welcome challenge. I'm not going to defend or argue my decisions, but appreciate the feedback. It's like a pact really. Permission for me to be critical with the lovely work you produce too.

Hah, sounds like a threat! I'm glad you aren't offended, I think coming from an arty background I am used to quite severe critiques but I know that a lot of people prefer to post an image and get praise or encouragement (and that's totally fine too of course). I really like crits that can lead to improvements, I've often thought websites like this should have a 'critiques welcome' tag or similar, in the same way that design sites often do.

I didn't think it was useful to explain why I don't like the wolf much, as it's not something you can or would change. But I personally feel that the thunderwolf is quite toy-like. It's not really a problem that can be easily fixed because at some level, regardless of how well sculpted they are, I'm always going to imagine He-Man sat on it's back. A lot of the plastic monster kits look the same way to me, little He-Mans on all of them. But I think it is quite noticeable next to FW stuff: I think the fur on the thunderwolf doesn't compare to the fur on Angron's cloak.

Do you use the Flesh Paint set from Scale 75? And do you airbrush the skin tones at all?

Definitely not a threat. Like any relationship or interaction, taking a step on the critical side is a sign for willingness and expectation to engage on a deeper level.

I airbrush the base skin color. Then all brushwork.

I'm loving the Thralls so far. The weirder the better I say! Interesting seeing a Blightking being used for a "regular" human instead of a marine; in this context he seems not very large at all, which is great. They should be a great contrast to the marines.

My only quibble with the wraith is the angle of the tail. It seems a bit, well, erect.

I think the giant wolves are great, dynamic models, easily the best wolves GW has released. But the way the fur has been sculpted does stand out for me; it's like the fractal resolution has been dialed down resulting in pyramids of fur instead of strands. This type of abstraction works well on it's own but stands out when paired with the finer level of detail in the FW fur. Of course even FW resin fur is abstracted into big chunks to work at this scale; it's just a matter of two different resolutions abutting each other. I think it actually works OK on the Marine and wolf pair, but I could see it being a problem if you were trying to mix plastic wolf and FW resin marine parts on a single Wulfen model for example. But maybe that's where the Warhammer Forge skin wolves come in?

Ha. He-Man. Yeah, I can see that @Bruticus. By the power of Fenris!

I think the big difference between this model (it's a Thunderwolf Cavalry model, right?) and the Fenrisian wolves (which I really like) is the bulk. This one is much bulkier, and its pose is more static, whereas the Fenrisian wolves are lithe and bounding. I've used them as mounts for some old Wood Elf Wild Riders, actually (I really need to post some photos on here, so you guys can see what I do, and maybe gain a bit of credibility with my posts and observations) where I converted them with a bit of a forest theme.

So, in that light, Migs is going for size, and this wolf is certainly monstrous in size, matching the Primarch-Wolves. I like the cybernetic eye to be sure, and that detracts from any Fantasy monster aspect in my opinion.

And certainly, the Wulfen Skin Wolves will be exciting to see.

 weirdingway wrote:

My only quibble with the wraith is the angle of the tail. It seems a bit, well, erect.

One bent erection.

It makes sense from the side view. The figure is a crescent shape, and the bone spine brakes out from his neck and it really looks like this one curved and hunched spine created the entire shape of the thing!


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 pantheralegionnaire wrote:

And certainly, the Wulfen Skin Wolves will be exciting to see.

These might end up being the final models I add. I've cleaned the parts up, but the amount of converting and sculpting ahead is pretty epic In a project where every model is a considerable conversion these still stand out as a massive undertaking.

I finished two new models. (only the nozzle darkening to do on the rotator cannon)

http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com/2014/11/vlka-fenryka-fournival.html

Looking really good! But it kinda leaves me to wonder: how will you explain the differences in size? Shouldn't a Terminator be bigger than a normal marine?

Nice looking stuff!

Migs: From a conversion, modeling and painting standpoint the models are exquisite. I love them. Your desaturated colours give your models a wonderful sense of gravity and weight that is so rarely seen in 40k modelling. The posture of the models gives them all a unique identity and you've done a good job disgusting the original Possessed-ness of the Wulfen.

All that being said from a play standpoint I do have a minor quibble. I have no problem accepting your two HQ models for counts-as purposes. Your Wolf Lord, while humongous IS a terminator, your T-Wolf Lord HAS a T-Wolf. But while your Wulfen is on the correct sized base, strictly speaking from the point of view of a player, I have a harder time looking at that and going "Terminator". This might be a bit of a pedantic point, I just feel that if you're going to do a counts-as like that it'd be better to maintain a level of consistency, at the absolute least on a squad-wide level. So say that ALL Terminators in your list would be represented by Wulfen, or count the Wulfen as PA Wolf Guard. Because in the midst of a game remembering that THIS model which is a terminator is a terminator but also THIS model which is NOT a terminator but is a terminator is a bit much

I understand that this is a modelling project first. And it is an absolutely sublime one at that. Just a minor concern on the subject of counts-as and how this army might be received from an on-the-board crunch only perspective.

Can't wait to see what comes next either way! Especially seeing those Thralls with the full treatment!

I hear you @Amadeus, but Migs says on his Legion of Plastic blog that these are 2 out of a total planned 10 "Wolf Guard in Terminator Armour" for play purposes. So I expect we'll see it come together as Christmas approaches.

In terms of the new models, I love the basing on the Wulfen--really great added height, and a dynamic and threatening pose. The hunched pose of the Priest is also threatening (and vaguely Death Guard-like...undoubtedly the influence of the Eye of Terror).

As always, an extremely fun process to watch--thanks for the update, Migs; I like your commitment to update us on Mondays. Gives me something else to look forward to as I go back to work.

Thanks guys!

Well, the guys are bigger than Terminators, based on 40mm bases and will get terminator weapons. There will be Terminator and Power Armour models and things all the more sinister that bear a lot less resemblance to Marines of any kind Lets just put it this way - imagining/remembering them to be regular Space Marines would be a bigger stretch of imagination. I think, sizing, basing, arming and unit composition will be a great combo to communicate their game play roles.

Then again, I built a Tyranid Army out of Gundam models and never got a word of complaint, so I am as biased as they come...

From a play perspective, you could tell me models this cool looking had a 2++ re-rollable plot armor save and I’d believe you. They are, after all, Space Wolves.

In general, I like to keep track of three or less things that count-as, or are otherwise non-WYSWYG. But the number is easily modified by the rule of cool. Which you have in spades.

Awesome work.

Then again, I built a Tyranid Army out of Gundam models and never got a word of complaint, so I am as biased as they come...

But those seemed to work because people didn't have certain expectations when it comes to the sizes of units. With Space Marines these expectations are pretty much set, so it's a bit trickier to convince somebody a model that is dwarfed by a power armour wearing figure is actually a Terminator.

Unless the Warp comes into play of course!

Very cool! These look even better as a set, and i have a feeling the impact will only increase as you finish more of them.

I really like the subtle warm/cool contrast between the grays of the bases and the armor.

I'm very curious how you will paint the thralls and less armored parts of the army. The red robes on the rotator cannon guy, for example, are a great contrast. But those nice browns and blacks you're using would also be great for thrall cloth ... but I'm sure you've got it all planned out!

Thanks guys,

 weirdingway wrote:


I'm very curious how you will paint the thralls and less armored parts of the army. The red robes on the rotator cannon guy, for example, are a great contrast. But those nice browns and blacks you're using would also be great for thrall cloth ... but I'm sure you've got it all planned out!

The plan is an overall palette of bone, black, browns, flat orange and that red. The Bone surgeons will be browns and Iron thralls redder, with bone and sharp metallics tying things together. Subject to change as things progress

Apologies for missing one monday update. It was time for a holiday, some sun, swimming and sleep. The batteries are fully charged now and there is a lot to discuss.

Firstly, I read the Emperor's Gift by Debmski-Bowden. Thanks for the recommendation Kampfrogt. It's a sort of must read for anyone serious about the subject matter of Grey Knights, Inquisition and the Wolves. I would assume most of the readers of this blog. Not his best book, but immensely bold, entertaining and ambitious. It renders the differences in the three organizations in a very Gothic fashion.

I would love to talk about the book after more of you have read it.

Secondly I've made progress and have two new Sky Warriors built and in primary colors together with the bone surgeons. I've attached a quick picture of them after Airbrush work. The whole affair still feels like a glorious form of cheating - so fast and such amazing effect that after all the bush work is completely hidden, yet lends an aura of light and shadow and speed I absolutely adore.

With one of the two Wolf Guard, I did the first genuine mistake in the project, and didn't realize he is based on the smallest (of the massive) Vorbak models, and unlike of of his friends thus far, is the only model on a completely flat base, which calls the difference out more than anything else. I will have to live with this minor thing and hope it blends in the army as he is still a giant compared to the humans to come and regular Citadel Marines.

On the conversion front, things are taking a turn for crazy. I didn't exactly think I'd be going this bonkers with the new models. Getting serious on a few Iron Priests and their Thralls, and will be hard to finish painting models first. I've got a cool idea for Long Fangs, a very characterful Ship Captain with silly gothic retinue to fly the Company Strike Cruiser and am overloading the bit box with different model concepts. Are Adeptus Astartes ships flown by Imperial Navy captains like the Grey Knight ships?) If not, that Captain will turn for rogue trading and the Solar Auxilia will be his very fitting personal militia.

Finally I am really getting into Christmas mood, listening to Bing Crosby as I write this, and waiting for Santa's Forge World delivery. The Christmas holiday will hopefully provide a few extra hours of model making.

I like the poses on the Gal Vorbak. When I saw a comparison pic of them online (don't own them myself), it looked like they were midway between the primarchs and truescale conversions. Are you planning on painting the remaining mutations/irregularities in their armor as battle damage instead?

On the conversion front, things are taking a turn for crazy. I didn't exactly think I'd be going this bonkers with the new models. Getting serious on a few Iron Priests and their Thralls, and will be hard to finish painting models first. I've got a cool idea for Long Fangs, a very characterful Ship Captain with silly gothic retinue to fly the Company Strike Cruiser and am overloading the bit box with different model concepts. Are Adeptus Astartes ships flown by Imperial Navy captains like the Grey Knight ships?) If not, that Captain will turn for rogue trading and the Solar Auxilia will be his very fitting personal militia.

Well, these are the 13th Company right? So they'd still be from the Great Crusade/Heresy era, technically. Regarding to the ships officers, if I recall correctly the Legion ships often had human captains. ADB's stories about the World Eaters' flagship the Conqueror depict it having a human captain, to give you but one example. The Space Wolves are known to have been quite close to humans, so giving them human captains isn't that far-fetched.

Very cool! You make me want to get an airbrush.

The gael vorbak based marines look amazing, so dynamic. I don't mind the scale differences; I know you could say gene-seed regularly produce marines of exactly the same size but I also like the idea of marines varying in stature like the humans they once were.

I'm very much looking forward to the captain and silly gothic retinue.

Well, they're certainly big! I love it, and the bone on the Priests & Thralls (don't know which is which, actually) is really a great contrast to the greys. The aggressive, threatening poses continue to really look good--the Wolves are going to be scary as a unit!

Thanks guys!

I haven't had any success this week finding time to paint, but have high hopes for the weekend, so I would have pics on monday as has been tradition.

The ships certainly have Thralls for crew, but the captain's in some fluff at least seem human. On Grey Knight ships they definitely are in recent kosher. But that character really makes a fitting Rogue Trader or a Navy Captain for the Guard component, so time will tell.

I just want you to know I subscribe to all your threads and 99.9% of your models get added to my inspiration folder.

Keep up the great work!!!

I love the look and colors of the new Sky Warriors. I really like how you haven't completely changed the Gal Vorbak minis into standard larger scale marines by removing or covering up the mutations and warp touched power armor. Your Wolves are what I envision the 13th company to be. Fiercely loyal warriors with a singular driving goal that have been touched by the Eye of Terror while continuing the hunt until it's bitter end. It's tragic really that such loyal and unyielding warriors have been twisted into forms that will see them damned and hunted by the Imperium that they helped build.

I would recommend that you get a copy of Ahriman: Sorcerer and read it as quickly as you can. I don't want to spoiler anything but I'll say that the 13th Great Company play a part in the book. The way that they are described seems to match up with your own personal fluff which is really neat to read. I picture the SW in the story as the marines that you have already started for this blog and they match the description

By the way...I guess you'll have to buy this now...

Thanks for the comments and book suggestions guys!

Malika, I'm not even clicking the link, because I know it's Curze and he is already on his way to be turned into a Void Claw pack leader

 migsula wrote:
Thanks for the comments and book suggestions guys!

Malika, I'm not even clicking the link, because I know it's Curze and he is already on his way to be turned into a Void Claw pack leader

That's very exciting. I really like this Curze model too--I think it's my favorite Primarch model since the Angron model that came out first. Nice, threatening pose, withdrawn but ready to spring into action. And not TOO big, which also fits the fluff. Can't wait to see what you do with him.

Thought I must say something. I'm 99% there with the two new Sky Warriors. A tricky banner proving more time consuming than thought. The balance of having enough resolution, but to really show wear and tear and gore and sweat has taken a lot of fine tuning.

These will bring it to grand total of 6 models, a 5 man wolf guard unit and a wolf lord with a thunder wolf.

I got my box of assembled Drop pods and Storm Wolves from Frontline gaming too, but have been too anxious to open it, after the preview shots showed a few gaps between parts. Regarding my hopes of attending the Las Vegas Open, one of their events, this will be a make or brake thing. To have a playable army in February is already crazy ambitious, but if I have the mother of all gap filling work outs ahead of me, it's game over.

Pictures hopefully coming soon and hoping Curze is here soon to kick start the next full squad of five.

migs

Have you gotten your Konrad Curze model yet? If so, can you post pics of the parts if you haven't started working on him or just list how many/what pieces he came in if you did?

Man, that is exciting--getting a squad of 5 converted Primarch models and a wolf lord! Crazy ambitious, admirably so. I really am looking forward to seeing the unit.

How are you going to bulk out your points cost for the Las Vegas tournament? Any thoughts on the list composition? Vehicles have to make up some of it and you seemed to zoom through the Alpha Legion vehicles with no trouble so that should help you in terms of time. But what about other models? How are the Terminators coming?

Warboss: Haven't got Curze yet, but will post photos when I do!

Panther legionnaire: In the squad of five, I only used Horus. Rest are Gal Vorbak and a Myrmidon. All Forge world. Second squad will be Curze, more Vorback, a heavily converted Arjac and a bit more extreme case of Wulfen.

For the tournament, the plan is to get to two squads of 5 "terminators", a squad of thunderwolves to run with the Jarl, drop pods and a thunder wolf, a dreadnought and then use some of the Legion Mechanicus elements as allied marines, to be replaced by Space Wolf versions of the same models in due time, but not by February. It's very ambitious, but sort of doable, if the Christmas holiday ends up being as productive as it sometimes is.

 migsula wrote:
Warboss: Haven't got Curze yet, but will post photos when I do!

Panther legionnaire: In the squad of five, I only used Horus. Rest are Gal Vorbak and a Myrmidon. All Forge world. Second squad will be Curze, more Vorback, a heavily converted Arjac and a bit more extreme case of Wulfen.

For the tournament, the plan is to get to two squads of 5 "terminators", a squad of thunderwolves to run with the Jarl, drop pods and a thunder wolf, a dreadnought and then use some of the Legion Mechanicus elements as allied marines, to be replaced by Space Wolf versions of the same models in due time, but not by February. It's very ambitious, but sort of doable, if the Christmas holiday ends up being as productive as it sometimes is.

That sounds possible to be sure. I wondered about the Mechanicus models too, and that makes perfect sense. Thanks for the clarification about the units and Primarch components--all Forge World is still pretty awesome, especially given the extent to which you have converted the models. I think that's awesome; the only Forge World conversion I have done is making the two Legion Apothecary models into a BA Sanguinary Priest and then a Dark Angels Apothecary. So, raising the bar again, Migs.

Hey, on a different note, I thought of you when I saw the new Forge World Contemptor. Pretty cool, actually, in my opinion--what do you think? Does Alpharius need a Contemptor?



How about a Dreadnought for these Vika Fenryka? Too bad none of the Space Wolf models have come out yet...I am in the same boat with my BA, and DA, unfortunately.

I think it's really tasty!! I'm even pondering about turning that into a Space Wolves dreadnought! Imagine swapping the chains and the A into fenrisian insignia, stealing parts from the citadel Space Wolf dreadnought kit and the hydra heads, really turn into a very viking feel sea monsters... I think it could really work.

Pics inbound very soon


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This time, you must visit the bog, there's some music for you to experience with the photos.

http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com/2014/12/vlka-fenryka-sixth-legion-at-six-models.html

Beautiful! The newest gael vorbak based marines are my favorites yet. I love how you paint so many of the armor details (including the backpacks) the same grey. It really pulls the conversion together and lets you appreciate the sculpted details, not to mention highlights the great weathering and chipping. It also helps everything seem both more realistic (and less toy-like) and more like a painting (instead of a comic book). The soft warm green/grey on the combibolter casings is just perfect.

The music's good too, btw.

Thanks mate The bolted casing is dull gold actually.

I am most proud of the grey. Hard to have the depth in photos, but the weathering and what the oil paints can create is amazingly smooth and realistic and communicates scale and materialism with the chipping in away I haven't been able to do with any prior project.

I like these two dudes too, because they are more "normal" and a very needed anchor with some of the crazier models. Can't wait to share the next thing. Model by model the bigger vision and picture is being communicated.

just added WIP of my version of Curze to the blog

http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com

The terminator arms fit him very well. Did you have to cut off his backpack with its grill or was that a separate piece? If you get a chance, can you list the pieces he comes with?

Damn dude, that a damn fine looking bunch you've painted up so far. They're gorgeous to look at.

 warboss wrote:
The terminator arms fit him very well. Did you have to cut off his backpack with its grill or was that a separate piece? If you get a chance, can you list the pieces he comes with?

I had to cut it off. He came as one piece body, separate head, arms, hands, shoulder guards and cloak + small biz and bobs. Gorgeous model!


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 Meph wrote:
Damn dude, that a damn fine looking bunch you've painted up so far. They're gorgeous to look at.

Thanks. I just airbrushed 3 new guys (one of them Curze) to primary colors and am now done brushing in the skin. With nine models they really look like a Warband already! I'm hoping to finish these three + some building by new year.

Guys,

Sorry for the silence. Vosla is ready, with two brothers, and a total of EIGHT new Vlka Fenryka models.

But something really big is stirring up and they will remain in the shadows for a little while longer. Stay tuned and sorry about the teaser.



Migs

Hjolda!

I have the utmost honor and excitement to share the news that the geniuses Kari and Mikko of Spiky Rats fame have joined forces with me to create a new, far superior blog and user experience.

IRON SLEET: http://ironsleet.com

Go check it out and please give us feedback as we continue to build a better interaction, discussion and picture admiring experience for you.

At this critical early hour all of your support and endorsement would be greatly appreciated, so please pass the word along!

Thank you for all the kind words towards the VLKA FENRYKA. This was a pleasant warm up for much bigger things to come. I have many new models to share in 2015, and Kari's and Mikko's work is incredible.

Yours Truly,

Migsula

PS. Vosla Hellclaw and tons of new photos to be found in your new destination.

I'm already following the new blog. I'm excited to see what you guys come up with in this new collaboration. I've been a fan of both blogs for some time now, it will be nice to go to one site for updates instead of two. I like the way the new blog has a way to view your pictures zoomed in.

Mind bogging stuff you have here sir! Keep it up!

Ooooh, this gathering of forces is just amazing! Does this also mean you'll be doing any modeling/storytelling projects together?

Thanks guys

Malika, absolutely! and more Epic gaming events like the one in Nottingham last summer!

Cor, great news about Iron Sleet – I've just subscribed. I was saddened by the demise of Spiky Rat Pack, but pleased you'll be joining forces with Mikko and Kari.

The force is coming together beautifully – the colour scheme appears understated, but there's a wonderful clean vibrancy to the red in particular. The grey really helps to set it off.

Fantastic! I'll certainly be following the blog. Just subscribed.

As usual, the converting, posing and subtle palette come together superbly. The craftsmanship is first rate. And the imagination behind it is captivating. I love the mood these guys radiate. Very Vlka!

Thanks guys! Much appreciated and very motivating. Cannot wait to share more.

Mikko is preparing for an Epic Squat update today! Go check it out!

Are there any work in progress shots of the guy based of curze? Or if not a list of parts as I'd love to give something like this a go. Great work, looking forward to seeing more from you guys

Young Logan

 migsula wrote:
Thanks guys! Much appreciated and very motivating. Cannot wait to share more.

Mikko is preparing for an Epic Squat update today! Go check it out!

I'd really like to - where can I do that?

EDIT:

Turns out I'm already subscribed!

http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/150/586811.page#7482075

 Young_Logan wrote:
Are there any work in progress shots of the guy based of curze? Or if not a list of parts as I'd love to give something like this a go. Great work, looking forward to seeing more from you guys

Young Logan

I have one that is quite telling at th old BLOG:

http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com/2014/12/vlka-fenryka-vosla-helclaw-called.html

 migsula wrote:

 Young_Logan wrote:
Are there any work in progress shots of the guy based of curze? Or if not a list of parts as I'd love to give something like this a go. Great work, looking forward to seeing more from you guys

Young Logan

I have one that is quite telling at th old BLOG:

http://legionofplastic.blogspot.com/2014/12/vlka-fenryka-vosla-helclaw-called.html

Thanks very much, super helpful looking forward to seeing the Vulkan wolf priest if you every do him, the idea sounds awesome

I have pictures of the Bone Crafters finished coming up this weekend and will share some WIP of the Priest. Right now I really struggle with how big he is. Even compared to all the other Primarchs.

 migsula wrote:
I have pictures of the Bone Crafters finished coming up this weekend and will share some WIP of the Priest. Right now I really struggle with how big he is. Even compared to all the other Primarchs.

Looking forward to seeing the Bone Crafters. Those are the ones you've been making from Dark Eldars Wracks right? I've literally just ordered a box of wracks, thinking I can make them into servitors, so I'm dying to see what you've done with yours.

Those are the ones! 3 from Wracks, one from FB Wraight and one from a FB Blight Knit kit

Hjolda!!

http://ironsleet.com/2015/01/10/vlka-fenryka-the-bone-weaver-and-the-flesh-maker/

Stunning stuff! AHH it's magic to my eyes! I demand close ups
Truly Fantastic stuff, well done.

LDP

Just been over at Iron Sleet checking out the better pics, these Bone-crafters are crazy good, such an eccentric and wonderful take on the Fenryka.

Really like the Cairn Wrath conversion - But my favourite is the Ogre/Ogryn(?) based gun servitor with his little hydraulics and bull skull mask.

Thanks guys It's turning more eccentric and esoteric by the model.

I should have a three model update next weekend. And have ordered a new Airbrush with a bigger needle to get on the Vehicles.

Love the thralls Migs - and the marines of course - and high praise for adding Mikko to the blog

- Salvage

Thanks for the updates and photos! I have also been following the other blog, and will continue to do so. Great to see that you got some quality painting time in over the holidays!

Thanks guys! So happy to hear so many of you have fund the new blog. The traffic we are getting is through the roof!

Just a heads up for some incredible new John Blanche artwork

http://ironsleet.com/2015/01/18/john-blanche-the-voodoo-forest/

“He had finished what he’d been doing with the feathers and the trinkets from his pouch. He cupped them in his hands, blew on them, and then threw his hands up. Something black fluttered away into the canopy. Hawser heard its noisy wings. He got the brief impression of a raven, even though he knew no raven could have been hidden about Wyrdmake’s person.”

Excerpt From: Abnett, Dan. “The Horus Heresy: Prospero Burns.” Black Library, 2014-08. iBooks.

Greetings,

Many new things underway and to share this morning. It’s a delicious and critical phase of the project. The baseline has been established, it has generated an incredible amount of positive feedback, (for example 500 likes, 50 comments, and 50 shares in a post at the Space Wolves FB group) and I really see what needs to happen next. Many of you have also mentioned wanting to see more works in progress.

I am really loving building and painting these, and it’s proven out to be the perfect combination of high level thinking and completely immersive, almost subconscious and meditative doing that sums up the hobby for me.

So what does the army need?

more black, red, metallics. Overall it is getting too grey unless future models incorporate more of this.
wyrd, wyrd and wyrd. I want to reference, but then expand on the quotation.
new sub themes. See above, but also the Martian travelled priests of Iron are coming to play, and their thralls will be wyrder that wyrd.
some vehicles, rather obvious
2nd ed magic. I believe for all of us, there is something particularly magical about those early days of exposure to the hobby, and going back to those themes with a few decades of learning can be very rewarding. In this case, converting a Wolf Scout inspired by those brilliant 2nd ed metal scout leader models with the targeted back packs.

So I present you a group of different models. Two new Wolf Guard in Terminator armor and a Wyrdman. All conversion. Several Wyrd thralls. A sub theme of a party going in to the forest to perform Wyrd on the foe. And a Sky Warrior scout to lead them. An Iron priest on a “Thunder Wolf” mount.

I’m really excited about the power of some of these simple conversions. The eerie Wyrdman with the third eye, The thrall with a bucket of entrails to make word happen and the thrall who made the raven.

I’ve also included a size comparison shot of Vlka vs. Legion as requested.

The pics are full size from iPhone 6 and direct linking them seemed to kill the proportions of the thread, so please check them out at Iron Sleet:

http://ironsleet.com/2015/01/19/vlka-fenryka-wyrd-in-progress/

Man, thanks very much. As usual, it's great to get some insight into your creative process, and I still love the textual references and links to the Abnett novel. I wonder if he's seen your work...

In terms of the new models, I think they are going to help you with some of the color additions you discussed wanting to include. Having the Terminators with faces (and especially hair) visible instead of helmets/masks is going to add in that respect, and the variety of accoutrements on the "Wyrd company"--Falcon (not a raven, but still cool--isn't there a raven with the Warhammer Battle Wizard? Maybe not...), entrails, antlers, banner, etc.--is also going to add non-grey elements. I would consider making the (Marauder) helmets on these guys leather, if you are not opposed to having Browns on these models. That would also bring in a contrasting color.

Excited to see the project continue!

Thanks mate! Without your support this blog would be awfully quiet!

The Terminators will both get Black Shoulder pads. With Red and Bone detailing. I will also work more red in some of the armor panels. It works great with the 13th scheme, and in retrospect I could've done more of it already. The Hammer guy has a black shoulder guard and more reddish flesh exposed and visually is the most striking of the wolf guards.

The Scout is nearly ready and got a much darker scheme that works well. And yes, the masks will be brown leather.

I'm sure there is a raven somewhere on the FB line... sitting on a shield maybe? Need to find it.

I recall the fantasy giant came with one. Njal Stormcaller obviously is another recourse. I knew there are others, but I'm stumped as to where

 migsula wrote:


I'm sure there is a raven somewhere on the FB line... sitting on a shield maybe? Need to find it.

I think the shield with the raven sitting on it is from the Empire General kit.

I have that one! need to dig it up. Cheers mate.

Yeah, @Amadeus, you are right: the Giant DID have one. I have it sitting on a Nurgle Chaos Warrior Musician, I remember now.

The color additions sound great--red and grey go great together.

more photos: http://ironsleet.com/2015/01/26/vlka-fenryka-thrar-wargjeger/

I think you will discover that there isn't a lot of 'definitive comparison' information available concerning the Primarchs.

Looks nice! Forgeworld needs to step up their game and release more primarchs as you're running out of conversion material on that front. Are these purely display pieces or do you take into account how to use them on a tabletop as well?

There is a raven on a shield in the empire generals kit. There is also a raven on the Garden of Morr kit. This is one of the terrain kits.

Fantastic! I agree with the post on Iron Sleet that the bare hands are great. You've done exactly what you intended here, bringing in new (brighter) colors in the form of bone, leather, hair, and skin.

The closeup image of the (Ghal Vorbak model) is great too--the effects of the warp clearly include "breastplate damage." The helmet and aggressive pose definitely bring a ferocity to the model. The flying braid on Wargjeger also lends a dynamism to the model.

The "fade" of semi-metallic skin texture going up to the bionic eye on the banner bearer is my favorite part, I think.

 warboss wrote:
Looks nice! Forgeworld needs to step up their game and release more primarchs as you're running out of conversion material on that front. Are these purely display pieces or do you take into account how to use them on a tabletop as well?

These are purely gaming pieces Not that I have as much time for gaming as I would like, but everything is driven by loose gaming framework.

I'm working towards two terminator squads. Hence all the 40mm bases. The scout and Kaerls are going to use scout rules. Balewolf counts as a Wolf Lord on a thunder wolf mount and so on...

I've been taking a painful brake from Fenrys and working on some Inquisitor stuff again.

http://ironsleet.com/2015/02/12/illuminati-aquila-invitational-wip-update/

“Listen closely Brothers, for my life’s breath is all but spent. There shall come a time far from now when our Chapter itself is dying, even as I am now dying, and our foes shall gather to destroy us. Then my children, I shall listen for your call in whatever realm of death holds me, and come I shall, no matter what the laws of life and death forbid. At the end I will be there. For the final battle. For the Wolftime.”

- Leman Russ



Here we go.

Feels so good to return on Fenrys. Bittersweetnes of missing the Las Vegas Open, but happy with the results of driving towards that schedule. Ultimately undone by the failure of my outsourcing adventure on the Drop Pods. I am enjoying this project more than any other in my quarter of a century in the hobby. I have so little time for the hobby these days, that every half an hour is a small treat, and my relative quickness is definitely an asset.

The Rout is getting to a point where it really feels like a legitimate threat. A Warband capable of ripping an army to pieces. After the wolves, it’s time to add Vehicles and really turn the visual into a fully fledged Warhammer 40000 Army. I’ve finished the final two “Void Claws” to finish off the special formation. Vosla’s pack is complete. I’m enjoying the breath of characters and different patterns of armor within the project. Now with two full “count as” terminator golf guard squads, and their friends, I feel like I can slow down even further and go create crazy individuals after the wolves and vehicles. I’m also very close to getting into gaming.

The Thunder Wolves from the beginning were going to be a central part of this project and its imagery. They were never going to get riders like we’ve discussed, instead the Jarl runs and hunts with his pack. Still I wanted storm shields, power fists and other equipment worked in elegantly. I also wanted to create gothic, jagged, cold scenery for them to hunt on.





more pictures at: http://ironsleet.com/2015/02/19/vlka-fenryka-wolf-time/

hmmm.... Run out of steam this blog is....

Ah now, don't say that Migsula. I just don't know what other compliment I can give you. Your stuff is fantastic. Well thought out and unique. Please continue on your path of fenrisian grays and subtle blood shed.

I'm really liking how this project is coming along, but I can't help but feel like the basing choice detracts from the models. They're painted (both the bases and the models) beautifully, but together, they're just a giant mass of gray. I don't know, I just feel like, while they do have a strong sense of realism, the lack of contrast makes them look a bit washed out. I think if you're going to go for a gray on the basing, you should change up the tone so that it's more dissimilar from the models themselves.

Just a thought!


P.S. What's your formula/method for blood? Is it just Tamiya Clear Red or do you do something special to it? It's very real looking; more so than most uses of TCR that I've seen.

Don't stop. Don't stop. Don't stop.

I am psychically tugging at your brain. That is the psychic tugging that your brain is currently feeling.

Did I mention to not stop?

So somebody IS reading!?

The recipe for blood is a mix of very very dark, red paint laying down some splatter shapes, and a specially mixed bottle of Tamiya red and something I cannot rememeber because I did it years ago. I also use Windsor dark red ink here and there. I would say you can replace my mix and get very similar effect. The mix probably has glow varnish and dark red in it.

Come now.. there is no reason to get self conscious. You're still the prettiest blog on the subforum and that power armor doesn't make your butt look big at all.

Dont feel bad, your blogs are still among best ones you can find on internet. For example all your stuff is on my "watch" list and I regularly check your regular blog but since I dont find anything smart to write down (fantastic, great etc. becomes boring after while after all) I limit myself on just watching.
Space wolves were always my least favorite legion of old so I dont have much interest in them but your take is something different and monumental task with all those Forge world models.
Please continue with your posting and dont let lack of responses hold you back.

I agree with the comment about the bases .maybe snow ? I know its over done for wolves but a pure white would add contrast and also allow some great snow/blood effects

This blog is a regular "Monday treat" for me, Migs, so I echo the others when I say that you shouldn't be discouraged. Time difference for me (in Southeast Asia) makes it hard for me to be online when anyone else is, so discussions don't really happen. However, your work is definitely an inspiration, and since I also live in a Gaming desert, and am largely unable to play, I appreciate your commitment to continuing to work on your models for the aesthetic satisfaction. I use that as motivation to continue to work on my army(ies) and I agree with you about the satisfaction of working in rare "stolen time."

So, please keep it up! I check Iron Sleet too, but don't really know how to comment over there. Plus, with all our Usernames (not that I think it's a bad system) you don't really know who I am, so that makes it a little less satisfying; I like to think you at least recognize me on this forum, and that that makes my comments more relevant.

I think it's pretty understandable that after a few rounds of no comments with out fishing, one tends to consider moving to forums and mediums where there is interaction - interaction being the whole point to share this work in the first place But glad to see I was wrong

I tend to post my thoughts and comments on your work directly on your Iron Sleet blog. I don't want to come off as a fawning fanboy so I don't repeat myself here. I will say that I obsessively check this topic and your blog every day for updates. I like the fact that you still post here on Dakka as well as the blog. You are reaching a wider audience with this method of sharing your work. I would encourage you to continue updating this topic as well. You never know when you'll inspire a new reader or receive some new insightful feedback that might have been missed otherwise.

Well Some of us are speechless from all the awesomeness.

I think I may have to steal your Thunderwolf Cav idea at some point, albeit at "normal" size infantry. I love my Space Wolves like crazy, but am not a huge Thunderwolf Cav fan really at all. The rules though...

With the 13th co. thing you have going, have you considered having scavenged bits of armor for certain dudes? I had a 13th Co. army from back in EoT times(which is what began me using so many chaos space marine bitz on my guys) and the staple of the paint scheme was to have a piece of armor here or there in the colors of the Chaos Space Marine Chapter of one sort of another. The thought being that their armor was sundered at the leg so they shoot a Thousand Sun in the head and now they have a blue leg, apparently being fresh out of gray paint.

I have 40 metal Wulfen painted just such, with orange and blue and silver and red bits and bobs for splash of color.

Sadly it can be hard to find new and intersting ways of saying something is really good.

Bad reviews are so, so much easier to write in English.

It's a bad habit many of us have, we see something great and, having nothing original to say, just let it go.

Gotta tell you, being an oil painter and illustrator my whole life, it's all about looking at people's stuff that you know you can learn something from, either a technique or an approach or mindset or just a vibe. If you cannot compare yourself honestly to others you will never improve at your chosen craft. You, my friend, are one of those I look to in the world of miniature science fiction ART. Love the work, love the stories and the concept and the realization. Strangely enough out of all that you do it's the actual technique of the physical work that I look to the least and your physical work is amazing as well!!! So please keep going, keep posting as there will always be those of us looking to you for inspiration in some small way, if even to shake our heads and get back to work on our own tiny madness, compelled to make ours better after witnessing yours.

Dr. Muchachos - thanks! Much appreciated. I definitely constantly push the boundaries and process of how I do things. Also as comparison to other people's work, but maybe less so. What I really want to see happening is improving my own work and constantly challenging myself. Like going from a water painterly style on white primer that I used for Legion, to airbrush, oils, and inks over black primer for the Vlka Fenryka.

always amazing to see your work, I am impressed how well the Sev night lords figure has translated into being a Wolf lord lol. beautiful work and very atmospheric.

It's funny because I do monster paintings mostly for a living nowadays, and mostly oils so I have a really good grasp of them as a medium, and I have to say that I am at a point with my technique on board and canvas that there isn't much I can't make them do...but painting with oils on miniatures is just so far beyond where I'm at with my miniature painting. I will definitely following the new website I hope that you'll be adding some how tos or something with the oils because I love the look they can give to a mini I just can't get it to work for me on that surface. As always, keep pushing us all with your work.

Just stumbled across your work and wow! How you get that monochromatic paintscheme to look quite so powerful is beyond me. As is so often the case "less is more" as some great sage once told me at a bus stop.

In terms of using oils on a miniature, what are your drying times like? While I've personally enjoyed painting on canvas with oils (so much more forgiving that watercolour and I hate painting anything but models with acrylic) I've never made the conceptual leap to painting miniatures with them.

“He looked up at his reflection. His left eye was the eye that he remembered.

His right eye, gold and black-pinned, was the eye of an adult wolf.”

- The Upplander

WIP

Men of Fenrys, made of steel and ice, Kaerls, Thralls, Skjalds and Wyrd. A random collection of additions, to a very meticulous plan. Currently thinking the creeps with patcwork matches join the Wyrd group lead by the Sky Warrior Scout, but they could work very well with the Bone surgeons too. The Kaerl with the Spiked axe is the Huskaerl of Jarl Rödmoon, and the commander of 77 Aett Guard. His henchman, with the shield, joins the earlier bannerman, both with their mouths stitched shut after the Night of the Unborn.

There are no wolves on Fenrys.





http://ironsleet.com/2015/03/16/vlka-fenryka-kaerls-thralls-skjalds-and-wyrd-wip/


Automatically Appended Next Post:

ReductiveTendencg wrote:
Just stumbled across your work and wow! How you get that monochromatic paintscheme to look quite so powerful is beyond me. As is so often the case "less is more" as some great sage once told me at a bus stop.

In terms of using oils on a miniature, what are your drying times like? While I've personally enjoyed painting on canvas with oils (so much more forgiving that watercolour and I hate painting anything but models with acrylic) I've never made the conceptual leap to painting miniatures with them.

Thanks!

I thin down the oils a ton with odorless turpentine and usually give them a day or two to dry before sealing with johnson Clear mixed with about a third of Tamiya flat medium for a super matt finish. I mostly use the oils as layers of weather and wear, and to shade the Sky Warrior armor., only at times highlighting black of the cloaks. Skin and bright colors are still all acrylics and inks.

Everything about these guys is great, I especially love the Void Claw unit, those guys look straight up scary.

I'm in the same boat as Moonpie with the TWC, I'll never run them in my army because I think wolf riders look goofy as hell, you've come up with a great solution to that problem.

I did something similar with the left over Santa Logan shields on my wolves as well. Did you end up scraping off the saddle belt that runs under the regular thunderwolves? I'm not good at sculpting so I just left it there.

 warboss wrote:
I did something similar with the left over Santa Logan shields on my wolves as well. Did you end up scraping off the saddle belt that runs under the regular thunderwolves? I'm not good at sculpting so I just left it there.

I did get rid of them. Sculpting fur is actually dead easy. You should try, there's a lot of time to get it right with GS, and if you apply a very thin layer it was super easy to hide any of the scraped area.

Awesome looking guys. I really like seeing your work in progress, especially the effects of the airbrush. I've never used one; only brushes, and so it's interesting to see the effect of using it part-way through. I look forward to comparing and contrasting the images once you finish these models.

As a side note, your photography of your models is also really great. I tried to take some photos of some of my models, thinking about finally starting up my own blog on this site, and they were really not very good. Do you have a tripod? The other thing I am struggling with is getting my aperture to stay open long enough. Anyway, I'd be very interested to hear how you do it.

"Beat your thoughts to the mould of your will."

Leman Russ

It has been the busiest two months of my life. A huge professional release, buying a gorgeous house, moving the whole family and then pneumonia & antibiotics. All this time I struggled with the Invitational entry half finished, until finally the cold told me it was futile to try and stay away from Fenrys. Such is the muse, singular is the focus. But not participating in the Invitational would be criminal, so enter the Grey Hunter.
From the glory of the Ministorum, glimmering golden aura of the god emperor, the direction swings to the storm cloud greys of Fenrys. Called Grey Hunter, this is a humble, but detailed study of the essence of my project. Study of human, astartes and Fenrys physics. Paint work in progress.



I also have something special today - the Vlka Fenryka captured in pure natural light for the first time. More color correct than any other previous photos, but still following our iPhone & White for exposure lock trickery.

It's now six months into the project, and even if the Kaerl squad and the Wolves are still painting in process, this is definitely a Sky Warrior host now - a full fledged army that the Vehicles already primed will bring to 2000pts.

They are,

Rhuncir Gorevlkae, called Lord Balewolf, Jarl, and Thunderwolf Rago,

Hjarkor Rödmoon, called Lord Hjar, Jarl

Heordoth Martian, Iron father (rotator cannon)

Ristan Uhl Wyrdhammar, Wolf Guard (thuder hammer)

Galeg, called Rödhair, Wolf Guard (axe and combimelta)

Arni Uhl Greyewintr, Wolf Guard (sword and combimelta)

Vosla Helclaw, called Slayer, called Threadtaker, Called Hjolda, 1st Scout (wolf claws)

Rerthung Uhl , called Beast. Void Claw (bald, wolf claws)

Ullste Jungchrot, Void Claw (helmet, wolf claws)

Ola Rost, Void Claw (forge world torso, wolf claws)

Niilor, The Haunted, Void Claw (abaddon conversion, wolf claws)

Thorwald Wintrmaw, Grey Hunter (running hammer grey hunter)

Thrar Wargjeger, Wolf guard Scout (scout)

Huskaerl & Kaerls, Bone Crafters & Flesh Weavers.



and more photos:

http://ironsleet.com/2015/03/28/vlka-fenryka-fenrys-in-true-color-and-the-invitational/


Automatically Appended Next Post:

 pantheralegionnaire wrote:

As a side note, your photography of your models is also really great. I tried to take some photos of some of my models, thinking about finally starting up my own blog on this site, and they were really not very good. Do you have a tripod? The other thing I am struggling with is getting my aperture to stay open long enough. Anyway, I'd be very interested to hear how you do it.

Thanks mate.

It's really quite simple. It's all iPhone only too. We recently did a quick tutorial on how we do it.

http://ironsleet.com/2015/03/14/photographing-miniatures-with-idevice-the-definitive-guide/

 migsula wrote:

I also have something special today ...

Superb pics, and the host is looking really stupendous. Also I think I may need to do a warband of things with horse/cow skulls for heads - clearly still being inspired by your thralls

Congrats on the new house and big move as well, sorry to hear about Papa Nurgle making life difficult on the side!

- Salvage

Thanks Salvage

The next dozen or so days means an incredible hobby update each day as the work from the first Iron Sleet invitational are released:

http://ironsleet.com/2015/04/02/the-invitational-cometh/

Day 1!

OOOO great work, love looking at your work each step is a step towards awesomeness!

Man the horse rider and profit look Awesome

though i kinda wish the staff was a little longer and pronounced

Oh. My. Grob.

Day One: Already blown away

- Salvage

It's been pretty amazing to see the quality and breath of work on display. Few more days until my Vlka Fenryka entry is revealed - and it will have a surprise

I love the dread knight conversion, I've always wanted to replace the terminator with a Jacked in human, nice work all round!

New work to share! It's back to the basics after all the wolfed, heroes and freaks!

http://ironsleet.com/2015/04/11/fenrys-born-invitational/

Always a pleasure to see an update from you, Migs

Looking good, I like the horns on the dreadnought, clever addition, they look the part.

Thanks gents!! Much appreciated.

Lovely stuff man! I have been away, but exciting to return to new images! Taken with an iPhone, too! Thanks for the link to the tutorial--I'll check it out. Have fun at the invitational!

There is a passage in the Space Wolf Codex about the creatures of man, machine, wolf and combinations that dwell and guard the Aett like a super charged immune system. This is what I am building.

Lots of crazy things in the works and looking forward to your thoughts.

Well the druid style combat servitor construction is spot on for the imagery and I know it isn't as complicated as some of the other conversions but I would say it is perfect, encapsulates the whole theme with zero excess. I very much like the little drone too and the owl on the wolf base adds to the watchful guard theme nicely, quite a subtle touch.

Great stuff as usual! I see you're also playing with the new AdMech kits I was also wondering if those infiltrator heads would make good drones: I guess we have the answer!

Keep up the great work!

Cheers
Rawson

Loving the new stuff. Inspiring as I am looking to take on some servitors for my own army.

Also, thanks for turning me onto the invitational. What a display that was. Good job all around.

I really dig that druid style you have for your "minions". That ine in the first pic with stag horns reminds me on villain from early Slaine comics.

Fantastic feel to your models, looking forward to seeing some more.

"The dark tunnels that twist and wind through the mountain's heart are prowled by numberless thralls and allies of the Space Wolves. These thralls may be man, wolf, machine, or horrible fusion of all three, but even though many are terrible to behold they are each noble of purpose"

Codex Space Wolves



Just scratching the surface here, but really enjoying the effortless, almost sketching like flow of these models. The entire force is benefitting from their character.

One aspect of this project that has worked really well is how fluidly I keep swapping between building and painting and several units at once. More crucial is to keep doing stuff than worry about ultimate self discipline about finishing one thing at a time - or making the mistake of building everything and then tanking with the massive painting task.

I really really want to get playing soon.

 migsula wrote:

This pic is very cool, love the feel of those models!

I love the new models, and I totally agree with you about the need to find a balance between building, painting, and finishing individual models and units. I totally do not have that balance right now and, as a result, haven't done any of anything for about 6 weeks. Glad to see that the muse is still strong for you, and I wish you continued perseverance and inspiration as you proceed.

Thank you guys!

I love what you've been doing with the sicarians. Very terrifying

Greetings from the desk,

The (thunder) Wolves are done – and eventually deserve a proper photoshoot, perhaps a full army shot, and on the newly finished terrain even.


Right now, it’s head down and finishing this Vlka build with a cohort of Iron Priestly brothers loaded for elephant (or Wraihtlords). My count as Centurions with a Master of the Forge to lead them. The different Kaerls will be count as scouts from the Sentinels of Terra detachment where these also belong, while the main body of the army uses the Company of the Great Wolf book. The “Centurions” will get a thoughtful sprinkle of space wolf and adeptus mechanicus plastic parts for detailing and be painted much darker than the rest of the Wolves – a step towards the Kaerls.

I must admit it feels quite thrilling getting so close to a full 2000pts army painted and converted to a standard I’m pleased with. I didn’t know if it was possible after the Legion project. If I could ever take on something with similar ambition, with so many new techniques and pull it off in a reasonable time and consistency from the start to finish.

I love the counts-as Centurions and I must agree with you that the rapid and yet high quality output of yours is outstanding. And puts us all to shame. I have really enjoyed watching this project grow and see the fantastic feel that you have generated with them.

Cheers

Ig

Great take on Centurions!

Man this is great! So much personalty in these conversions but the paintjobs make them true characters. Looking forward to more!

I cannot wait to see these new additions painted! Could we have some army shots as a whole? :-)

FINALLY back in business after an amazing summer of sports and adventures and other hobbies.

And the Myrmidon Centurions are finished.



More pictures at: http://ironsleet.com/2015/10/26/vlka-fenryka-hjolda-he-is-alive/

Yes my lord the Blanchitsu is strong in this one, he will be a great asset if he could be turned to the warp side

Wow these conversions are really nutty! I like 'em!

Great stuff Migs, love the aesthetic as ever

Also, that right guy has a looooooot of skulls stockpiled for a dude covered in guns

- Salvage

Visionary work.

Oh my god. This thread is awesome!

Love those cents, really cool.

EDC

Thanks guys! Much appreciated

This was an amazing project to follow, Migs. Both on Dakkadakka and Iron Sleet. If I remember correctly you still have a few vehicles to finish to truly finish the project?

I would love to see a full army shot of everything now too. You should be the feature army in a Warhammer Visions.

As someone who converted to white undercoat recently, I am interested in why you decided to use black for this project. What did you find the merits of it were? And will you continue to use black for you future projects?

Thanks for taking the time to post on Dakkadakka still. You've been inspiring me for about 6 years now :-)

Always amazed by your work.

Hey migs, I know I'm really late to the party here but I wanted to let you know how excited I am to be able to watch you produce these models. When I first joined dakka several years ago, you were one of my big inspirations for working to improve my painting and modeling skills. (thanks for that!)

Onward!

Is there a painted army shot anywhere? The shots of individual units are very cool, but the only army shot I've seen was on your blog and in black and white.

Am I right that the infantry are done, and the vehicles yet to be painted?

Love the infantry, excellent job on the recent centurions in particular!

I guess I'll take that as "no completed army shot" then

Thanks gents!! Much appreciated.

No entire army shot yet, I rely on my 6s for mini photography and it is stunningly good for close ups, but haven't yet figured out how to get the best possible group shot. The same tricks simply don't work.

And yes, infantry done, and vehicles being painted at this very moment, but lots of competition from different projects.

http://ironsleet.com/category/illuminati-aquila/

and

http://ironsleet.com/category/marbailtor/

Wow Migs, I wandered your ironsleet site for awhile and was truly inspired by your Dark Librarians. Amazing conversions, great quotes, and fantastic mood you have created with your pictures and writing.

Thanks Ice Angel. Happy to hear you like it. It's been a dream come true for me, 4 like minded, but very different hobbyists have managed to craft a blog very fitting to our approach and the discussions and reach has been better than we could even imagine in the beginning of the year when we set it up.

Vlka Fenryka

A tribal pack of elemental hunters, the God Emperor’s engineered executioners, the color of granite and thunder clouds. The Sky Warriors of Fenris.

Canis Helix is the unique genome of Fenryka Astartes, superior even to Astartes. It’s a gift of bestial fury and a sixth sense, but equally a curse of darkness of the Wulfen. For each Sky Warrior, this is a life long battle of body and mind, of fear, control and cold.



Fenrys,

Good to be back. Pilgrym https://ironsleet.com/category/the-pilgrym/ but faint echoes on distant terra, my nordic nostrils drawing deep of the achingly fresh and icy air of Fenrys. I’m really re-energized, by what to me was a historic effort and hobby spectacle. From the name, to level of excellence, I think it would have made an utterly amazing official Project even. a 28mm game of Dystopian grandeur Called Pilgrym.

And now I know exactly what I want to do. Get back to properly playing Warhammer 40000. Trustful, that Games Workshop is about to adjust the system that has become a PHD requiring army building degree of complexity, into a fantastic core game that is approachable, rich and fluid.

Wulfen,

There was a lot to like with the new GW Wulfen models – except the big idea. I never saw the Wulfen as some perfectly formed sub species of skinny lupines, but monster Astartes, each a unique breakdown of Astartes physique through the cancer and curse of the Canis Helix. Huge, dark, lumbering beasts, impossibly agile for their sheer size, each a unique horror. I also saw the transformation as a little more sliding in scale, certain brother’s starting to bear the mark, and others all gone. Atleast in the case of my Company, returned from the Warp after ten millennia of hunting the Traitors, bringing home a trophy.

Some ideas are born ready, One look at the Forge World Blade slaves in the Warhammer World store, and on to build these. I’m really pleased how they turned out and currently cursing I used all my black primer for the mammoth Stairs. Cannot wait to get painting.

FINISHED!

https://ironsleet.com/2016/08/14/vlka-fenryka-ulfamadur/

Holy crap, it's migsula!


Cracking work.

Wow. These look really fantastic.

EDC

Man, those look amazing! By the way, will you be converting any other primarch models? Guilliman, Corax, and Perturabo would be pretty interesting kits I'd imagine.

That is seriously impressive.

Stunning work migs... both in concept and execution. I really like you take on the wulfen. Very primal.

Thanks guys. I've got some new work to share soon