"Fear no evil, fear no death."


About this Project and Personal Intro:

Currently revising this messy blog while on vacation/moving into my new house. (If you see this lol.) Got lots of goodies in store when I get back!

This blog is a blog dedicated to making converted, customized, and fully painted miniatures. This blog is to showcase my terrain, oddball games and systems, along with the main projects below.

The Sons of Orar:


Where it all began, these Marines have been stripped and restarted so many times it is ridiculous. I have decided to take a full second edition approach to the painting and styling of these marines, with modern and old kits mixed in, along with a handful of Rogue Trader throwbacks mixed in. These guys are my first army, and hold a special place in my heart.


(Star Hunters will be here soon. Working on fluff.)



This blog started as my Sons of Orar blog and then terrain but, as I am branching out to Specalist games such as Epic, BFG, the Halo Fleet game, MEdge, and other Space Marine chapters, I have decided to rename and redo this blog, and pretend the first few pages don't exist, as my younger self created this blog.

I've unfortunately had to grow up fast, and this blog sorta shows that over time. For each of you who has followed so far, you are wonderful, and your support from comments to painting tips, all the way to sending me bits and kits has been super helpful.

Especially in times of strife.

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So this blog started out as my Sons of Orar blog but, it has expanded to terrain and other chapters of Marines and one off projects that I fancy, based on Ravendove's Sons of Orar, and this email below I found on the net from Keith of Heavy Metal, that cemented me in choosing this chapter, that is slowly being supported more by Games workshop as time goes on.


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Blog/Personal goals:
I'll post some actually feasible ones in 2016, depending on if I move to Sweden or not.:

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Here are some of those awesome threads:

Gits' "Rebuilding the Mantis Warriors,": http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/289929.page (Though he is working on his orks and grots as of late, they can be found in his signature.)
Shasolenzabi's "Been Seeking out Oddball Tanks,": http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/6540/326377.page#7656960
Ice Angel's List of things to do: http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/0/325323.page
Cain's "All is Dust" Plog: http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/413174.page
Solar's "The Lamentor Project": http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/0/394207.page
Veteran Sergeant's "Leave no Model Unconverted": http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/437416.page
STC_Logic's "Alpha Legion: 6th Company." http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/385168.page
(I will be updating this later, around the time of my first summary. Sorry.)

Anyways, I also follow Seahawk on B&C, Ravendove's Sons of Orar, (Also on B&C) and From the Warp on Blogspot along with Blackladder/Ruglud. The last two inspired me to put up my own blog here, along with the courteous and supportive Gitsplitta.

Looking forward to seeing how this goes! Good luck

Yup, Good luck. Always liked the Sons of Orar, look forward to seeing how they come along.

And good opening post, by the way.... just needs some more pics.

@ Slinky: Thanks! I decided I can't sleep, and that I'm going to post afterall today! It's just a a teaser but, I do have some terrain in the works. I also figure I should show off what came in the mail today. The support means a lot, especially this early in the night.

@ Alanmckenzie: Thank you for being one of the first to reply too! The Sons of Orar are huge hits for me due to the vagueness of their fluff, the fact that they are used by writers to assist other chapters, and their bias towards Tyranids. I tried to make an amazing opening post, and I would have done more picture wise but, I felt awful when I wrote it. The Hydrocodin has kicked in, and I've returned from Nurgle's domain.

"My bolter has sung glorious hymns across countless worlds, songs both of glory and despair."

Anyways, here is my first post. I'm apologize, nothing is painted yet. I am waiting to go to my FLGS to buy some paints, along with picking up my large order of Space Marine models. However, while I've been hibernating due to my wisdom teeth being cut out, a lot of packages came in the mail. Here's what I got, and here are some pictures of what I have been working on.



Here is the overview of all my stuff. A box of Tacticals, the citadel hobby kit. (Sure to earn some ire for that but, I work in the healthcare industry. After cutting the hell out of my hands with a hobby knife a few weeks back working on the "ruined" gatehouse I will post further down this page, I decided I cannot have any more open wounds as it is a risk. (Hep, HIV, etc.) so I got it for the sand, grass, and plastic snips haha!) It was on sale. Haters gonna hate... Anyways, there is also my SWM fall scenics kit, two stump kits, the "Beveled Edge: "All your Blasted Wasteland Bases set" from SWM http://www.secretweaponminiatures.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=79_30_59&products_id=240, plus a oval Blasted Wasteland base. Then there are Scibor Shields, and Maxmini helmets. Also, a lovely display plinth I bought off ebay to magnetize and display a 60mm objective I am working on.



Here are those Maxmini Steam Knight helmets. They're badass. I originally bought them thinking I ordered five but, I got ten. The price is great, I think they were like 8$ USD and shipping and handling costs, of course. I bought them for my Captain that I am kitbashing. The sole reason I wanted them was because I saw the one that is cut off the sprue on Gitz' Mantis Warrior biker. (In otherwords, the second one from the left on either sprue.)

There is also a Mk5 helmet for my Company Champion...

It reminded me of the Ultramarine on the cover of this book, so I had to have it. It's my favorite helmet in all of 40k, by far.





Just some of the 25mm bases.



Here are the Scibor shields I will be using. From left to right, the first will be used as decor on the objective marker. The second though it chipped (resin had an airbubble, it'll be an easy fix with Scibor's resin quality.) will still be used for my Captain, and the third will be placed on the shoulder of my Contemptor I plan on buying, ornamented with Tyranid heads.



Here is the start of my objective marker. Note the wire tree, I ran out of wire. It'll eventually have fall leaves to match the bases. The bases will be done up sorta like this: http://fromthewarp.blogspot.com/2012/06/making-wood-themed-bases-is-easy-to-do.html Anyways, my original plan was to have a Centurion with a leg seared off propped against it, firing his heavy bolter at Gargoyles. Sadly, at 25$ for a single Centurion, I said that! I'll be putting a downed squad on it later but, it will be relying heavily on kitbashing and dynamic posing.



Close up of the SWM kit, figure you guys would want to see what it comes with. There is also soil and static grass behind those leaves.



Here is one of my terrain projects I am excited over! It's the Battlescape. For the price, it's great terrain. I love the trees, though I've not glued them on yet for storage as I've two other terrain pieces to finish before this one but, that's pretty much the reason I bought it. However, I had to paper mache (which will be painted as mud and soil) over all the excessive skulls. I get tired of skulls. I prefer rivets, rocks, and mud to skulls.

Eventually, this piece will be the road that goes to the rear gatehouse that I am posting below, that will form the Sons of Orar outpost for my large diorama/game board. Oh crap, sorry. I let that out the bag way too quickly. Yes, I will be creating a miniature outpost/fortress for my Third Company Strikeforce.





In order from top to bottom of this series. So I'm making a cliff piece of terrain, with a monument area for some fallen SM and Guardsmen. It's made from foam from my HP laptop box, and bark stolen from my neighbors tree. (Taylor, if you're reading this, bro, I'm sorry.) It will have a ruined tower that will have a shield emblazoned with the chapter heraldry on one side, and the base for a gun emplacement which will be made from a Razorback turret on the other. I am following this tutorial: http://www.dakkadakka.com/wiki/en/Making_Dynamic,_Craggy_Hills, and this will be the piece of terrain I will finish first in this plog.




So here is the front of the rear gatehouse. So the rear of the outpost eventually. The Sons of Orar refer to it as "The Bulwark." Anyways, it features a shield which will feature the chapter's heraldry, and it has been "overrun" by the Tyranid advance. The paper mache, Secret Weapon stumps will be painted up as if they are in a horrible muddy mess. The hot glue that is all over the actual gate, is Tyrannic slime and gore. The gate itself has been forced open by a Carnifex. While the gatehouse has been ruined, it still stands as a testament to the brothers who fought the first wave of the xeno back.

[img]http://i890.photobucket.com/albums/ac101/jacobtsawyers/2013-12-17_03-53-40_950_zpsc8339646.jpg?t=1387921355/img]


Here is a some sideview of the gatehouse. The large beam that stems from the tower, will eventually hold a large Tyranid trophy of some kind. Unfortunately, I have no clue what type of 'Nid to hang from that chain, as one that's a large gap for a large 'Nid, and two, I hardly know anything about Tyranids from a model perspective. Suggestions and C&C on the gatehouse are openly welcome. Actually C&C about everything is pretty cool. I know I'm kinda crappy at this point as a modeller, and I want to improve.




Here is where the defenders valiantly drove steel beams and debris to block the Tyranids from breaking through. Anyways, morale of the story is, I also molested my model. The "Tyranid Goo" idea came from the fact I had to repair the gatehouse. I melted it trying to heat up the overly wet paper mache mud, and it began to droop. You can see that in the corner and on the right door. I covered that in hot glue after exposing the heated plastic to the cold of the outdoors. (Here it gets to 32 at night now.) After facepalming, I took advantage of this by making it look like the Tyranids came in and over-ran the place. So yeah, that's not glue. It's slime! I swear! (Or at least it will be, once painted up.)

That's everything for now, I will continue to work on all of these pieces I have shown so far, and I hope to have a Tactical Squad done shortly. As for the sole Space Marine that made it from my last army, here he is. I don't think he's too important to show off without a spoiler but, he is pretty beast from a modelling perspective IMO.



And yes, there will be a few veterans who have returned from the Deathwatch in my army. Not many but, a few. Anyways, I know there is "this lone poster guy" who goes around telling people to get a lightbox early on in their P&M blog. I am aware, and I actually will be getting a lightbox soon. I will be posting a tutorial of how to make a high-grade lightbox, and even a wooden storage chest for tools, paints, supplies, and work in progress models. (I can't wait to do the second one.) I'm sorry for the image quality too, they'll be taken with a real camera once I start painting them up and doing some serious work. But, last night the Machine Spirit was cursed in my camera, which was really, really frustrating.. After thirty minutes I gave up on trying to use it, and used my Droid Phone for the pictures.

So my apologizes again. Anyways, I hope the people who view this find something neat, if not in this post, then in future ones. (This thread is going to last a very, very, long time if I have my way.)

Cheers.

None of the pics work. :(

Ah, sorry about that. I don't know how to use Dakkadakka's gallery, and I guess I just wasted thirty minutes uploading all those. I'll get it sorted. I gotta call my doctor's office real quick first though but, I'll get the pictures sorted immediately after. My apologies everyone.

Edit: It's due to flickr. I have to be logged into FLIKR for you guys to see my images. I hate Dakka Dakka's image gallery, and with FLIKR being stupid, I'll have to find an alternative to host my images. Expect that post to be down for a few hours. I'm going to the store anyways to get more modelling supplies.

My apologies to everyone who views this in the mean time.

Sorry for no updates. I've gone and blown at least a few hundred dollars on supplies and plastic crack. I think I may be coming down with Pneumonia however as a side effect of my operation, (I'll be going to the doctor's tomorrow.) so unfortunately, no updates until later.

Plus the holidays are hectic. Sorry for the rough start on this P&M Blog. It'll still be a success, I'll see to that.

As for this: "Nothing can go wrong with this, right, right?!"

I should have never of posted that . So that's all for now folks.

Yep, sorry, you jinxed it yourself

The first post was a joy to read, you really seem pumped and filled with ambition. I'll be more than happy to read the second one once them pics are up and running Blog sounds promising!

I tend to just upload my images to the dakka gallery, but I've also hosted some on photobucket. Seems to work ok.

I love IMGUR for image hosting: it's amazing: easy to use and fast. I always loved the scheme for sons of orar, good luck dude!

"Better to be crippled in body than corrupt in mind."

Decided I'd splurge a bit this holiday season, I ordered this stuff earlier in the month...



I got myself a Razorback, which will be a Rhino known as "Stalward Champion." (Got it for the turret for my terrain, plus I needed a Rhino,) a Command Squad for Command Squad "Militiades," and a Stormtalon kit which will eventually become the Gunship known as "Orar's Due." I hope to heavily kitbash these before the end of the month though, it is doubtful. However, I have finished all of my tactical marines, and my command squad, minus paint. I'm waiting on a order of Army Painter Pure red and a few other things before I can paint them. There is a huge backlog of the stuff due to the holidays.

Hence why I might have splurged...

But, the good news is I have a lot of terrain that will be done by the end of the week. I'm excited! So, moving on...

This is my Captain/Chapter Master. I may field him in games as a Chapter Master rules wise but, in the fluff this is Third Company Captain Platon Alexo, of the Sons of Orar. Platon Alexo roughly translates in Greek to "Broad-Shouldered Defender." I tried to make this army similar to the Greek/Roman Ultramarines, as they would be Tyranid ravaging successors, not the Smurfs of Wardom. He has recently returned from the Deathwatch, and retains his shoulder as honor dictates him to do. He is now de facto Captain, promoted from the status of Veteran Sergeant after leading a series of daring assaults against the forces of Chaos on the surface of Aeska VI. He was promoted to said status, unanimously by his peers in the wake of Third Company Captain Galthas' death at the hands of a Champion of the Ruinous powers.

Anyways, here he is.





And no, I've not found a suitable backpack for him yet, unfortunately.

And lastly, here is the objective marker I've made some progress on...




So yeah, I've pretty much almost got that wire tree ready for it's outer layer, then the base and the tree will be base-coated, all the leaves added, etc. Just like all the other bases. Then I'll simply add foliage to the tree, though sparsely as it is the first hours of a Tyrannic invasion in which all of my terrain takes place.

I imagine that wounded Veteran Sergeant has information that the chapter must retrieve due to long-range vox interference, before he is over-run by the filthy xenos plaguing him.

Love love love love love the captain. He gives a very roman look.

Awesome work so far!
I'll definitely be following this thread. Keep it up.

@ Feasible: I really wanted something that screamed Greek/Roman, and underdog all at the same time. He's just been promoted, and has large shoes to fill. I made a reference to him in one of my earlier posts, as the main inspiration for him was the Ultramarine Omnibus cover helmet and Captain Idaeus from the book.

@ Kevin_John Thanks! I hope you do, and I hope everyone here continues to like my work. I'd post but, I don't feel like my progress is significant enough yet with the terrain and tacticals to post and update yet.

That objective marker is sweet. To really add to the Greek/roman effect,I would get the plumes roman centurions wore(the one going down the middle of the helmet, Greek style, and the one going parallel to the shoulders, centurion style, like in the sternguard box. I think few makes them to

I love the Sons of Orar scheme so I look forward to more.

Subscribed. Very interesting stuff Coldwill, looking forward to seeing more of your work.

Very cool stuff so far, the Chapter Master looks very cool!

@ Maxz: Thank you for the kind remarks! I was going to buy some SWM helmet crests but, I decided I would just make the centurion crests out of greenstuff.
@ Dinamarth: Thanks! Hopefully when I actually get some paint on these guys, i'll do a decent job.
@ Gitsplitta: Thanks! It's a huge honor to see you post that, as I've followed your threads for some time, they're some of the best on DakkaDakka IMO.
@ HoeJarris: Thank you. The Captain is great, I think the Forgeworld Praetor chest and Maxmini helmet are what sold him to me originally.

Count me in for sub'd, brother Son of Orar!

Where'd you get the helmet for your cap'n?

@ Kitch102: You can buy them here: http://www.maxmini.eu/

m, never really thinking of the hobby. I played with a few gaming communities known as "Chapters" which have entirely left my mouth with a bad taste. However, last year I stumbled my way into the "hhhobby" through Ebay. I made my mistakes like all beginners, melted models in acetone, misplaced bits, not abiding by WYSIWYG at all, and tinkering with terrain but, never quite finishing it. I got out of the hobby as I was flat broke, and the people who I gamed with ruined it for me, and honestly the lady didn't like it.

This cracked me up. Yes, I've had all of that happen several times. I think this whole thing is cyclical.

You're blog is great. Sons of Orar are pretty damned cool and this is off to a good start. Subscribed!

This is gonna be good!

Subbed.

Mhh, mhh, mhh, now this is lookin' awesome. Read that 2nd post, you are on a roll! Terrain, cool looking objective markers, a fortress, wow!

And I add my praise to that Captain. He looks excellent. Very noble like.

@ Gorgrimm: It is a horrible cycle! I think it got to me, oh lord, I best see the Mad Doc! Thanks for the sub.
@ Chaos Legionnaire: Thanks! Means a lot, I think I'll have to check out what you're posting...
@ DraconicLord: Thank you for the praise. Sorry about the pictures not working when I originally posted that. It made me feel exceptionally stupid. I don't think I'm onto anything yet though, I've not even painted a single marine yet!

"To take a town, send a legionary. To take a city, send a squad. To take a world, send a company. To take a culture, send a Chapter."


All your wonderful comments made me feel guilty I hadn't posted any updates, haha! I had wanted to post an update when my terrain was either done or my tacticals bases were painted up. However, the latter seems far off due to the paint situation.

So anyways, have a half update!

Here is my Company Champion Tiber Straton, of Command Squad "Miliades" (Greek for Red Earth.) I decided in lieu of a Power Weapon, he'd have a Relic Chainsword known as "Orar's Claws," which counts as a Power Weapon for all intents and purposes. The helmet is simply a Forgeworld MK 5 helm.





And here is Veteran Sergeant Spyridon Iro of Tactical Squad "Kyrillas." I absolutely loved the Maxmini helmet I used for him, I am using them for all my Sergeants.






And here is my terrain! It should look like this once I sand it:


Image provided by this tutorial:
http://www.3t-studios.com/archives/2642

Here is my "Craggy Cliff," terrain. My favorite parts are the shrine bit that is sheltered under the cliff, and the gun emplacement, which I made using the Razorback heavy bolter turret, some Sanctum Imperialis parts, and an old Bearcat scanner from the 1950's knob that had broke earlier in the week.









Here is a Memorial Hill, known as "Victories' fall," by the surviving members of the Third Company. It is supposedly where Galthas battled the Champion of the Ruinous Powers, and in his death, slayed him. The Company standard stands tall, above a small memorial dedicated to him and his warriors. I did this piece as a surprise to both myself and for you guys. Sorry for blurry pictures, I gotta bust out the real camera sometime and not my phone.







And to wrap up all this lovely terrain, I put some of this spackly love into my battlescape:




Lastly, I decided I hate how the Stormtalon flight stand looks, so I got me a SWM oval base, and made a 5 inch tall wire tree. It'll get the same treatment the wire tree got on that objective marker, and will have foliage, along with all the other works. I decided to just take a few pictures of an overview and some up close shots:





That's all for now folks! I really appreciate all of the comments and attention this P&M has received so far. Thanks all.

Edit: I just realized, I totally forgot to do a bits swap at my hobby shop. If anyone wants some cool SM bits, from basic to things like Lightning Claws and Sternguard Shoulderpads, I need Tyranid stuff! Especially a Tyrgon head and some Warrior heads, maybe a ripper or two? That is, if anyone has some of those laying around...

Cool looking stuff can't wait to see some paint

My pleasure Coldwill. Man, that winter terrain is top notch! Something I've always wanted to do but I've got several armies thoroughly embedded in kind of a fall motif. I have one more that I haven't begun yet... that would be a good option to stretch my legs and try some winter basing.

Your bases look like the came from Secret Weapon Miniatures? I have similar bases (different design) for my son's necrons. Those raised edges are designed to hold water effects. I was wondering if you were planning on adding "water" to them. Perhaps water effects tinted with turquoise ink would make a very interesting ice effect?

Just a thought.

@ ghostmaker: Thanks! I can't wait till me paint arrives! P.S: are you on Xbox 360? Your user name seems familiar...

@ Gitsplitta: Actually, you nailed it! My lovelies are from SWM... This is the exact set I ordered, plus the 120mm oval. http://www.secretweaponminiatures.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=79_30_59&products_id=240

As for the water effect you mentioned, it looks like this when done properly: http://www.secretweaponminiatures.com/images/HollowBases/AllYourBlastedWetlands_01.jpg

Anyways, I see you commented that it was winter terrain! I should have pointed out what it looks like when it is done! Regardless, as cool as that winter terrain would be, it's not. It took me forever to pick between wooded fall, or winter bases. It should look like a fall version of this base once done: http://www.3t-studios.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Hills_terrain_scenery_3t_ov.jpg But, after seeing all that white it really is tempting to consider doing some winter bases. However, I wanted something unique, to make my S.o.O really stick out. Therefore, I'm going to continue using this as my guide... http://fromthewarp.blogspot.com/2012/06/making-wood-themed-bases-is-easy-to-do.html

I'm going to order some paints off Ebay in four or five days, I'll do a test base and hopefully everyone will comment on it.

So yeah, here is an exact image of what my bases will look like once done, except the wood will be a more rotten brown instead black, and the leaves will be the reds and yellows of recently fallen, fall leaves.

I love a good base. Can really make a figure. Very excited to see what you do & will be gleefully stealing your basing ideas. That base looks fantastic!

That's some great terrain there, looking forward to seeing this develop.

@ Gitz: I agree! I like bases because I honestly enjoy working on them and terrain more than my army.
@ El: Thanks, keep looking for updates from time to time. I'm a little bit slower than your average P&M blog.

So, there was supposed to be an update here. But, after getting a little drunk on New Years, my Stormtalon uh... didn't turn out as I had planned. It's got some damage to it, permanently glued parts that should be able to move, etc. For the most part, it's not actually that bad. I can see where I repaired parts that I melted with plasticard/cardstock but, also see damage to the rocketpot conversion on the roof of the Talon.

Anyways, when I get home from running some errands this morning I'll post some pictures. I think it'll still be ace, I just have to greenstuff some holes...

Speaking of the Stormtalon, if anyone has a Trygon head they'd like to sell me; I still need it for this project. Also, I finally got my order of paints coming in the mail. I can't wait to finally paint!

Gotta have your priorities Coldwill. A little relaxation isn't a bad thing.

Well Gitz, this isn't my number one priority. It's hobby to pass time until the end of the month. But, I try to keep you guys updated the best I can. Anyways, pictures incoming.

"There is no greater blasphemy against the Emperor than failure; as we are already sworn dead among the stars, we cannot afford to be damned too."

So I've decided the entire Third Company of the Sons of Orar is undergoing a self imposed penitent Crusade(campaign? IDK, since it's not the whole chapter,) for Captain Galthas allowing some of the battle-brothers under his command to be found wanting. Sorry, totally random but, I felt like adding it for discussion.

Here is the Stormtalon that is WIP, known as "Orar's Due." Be gentle, as I said before I was a little drunk when I assembled her... I've got so much to fix, repair, and touch up with greenstuff.


Two sideviews. Note the antenna thing was glued outside of it's department after it was too late I guess to put it in. I'm going to cardstock around it to make it look even cooler than it would have been though.



Front view. Shows cardstock repair to... fix a melted side under that pod. Also shows damage to the missile pods. I'll have to greenstuff it all out and make it symmetrical and pretty again, instead of scrappy orky. Still, I think I got that fat gunship look in the front, with a slim elongated profile. I hope this thing will look better than the stock Stormtalon!



Here is the undercarriage. I looked everywhere for the Tauish hoverbuttons. Turns out, I glued them here...



What was I thinking! Haha! Looks cool though, I'll greenstuff the right cap to make it match the left, and all will be well. I'll murder some poor kid's toy to get new Taufloatythingies for the Talon later.



Another rear view.



Some more work on the tree-base, still a long way to go with it.

Anyways, this Stormtalon is in the chapter fluff, the Stormmaw variant, designed for being able to withstand higher G-forces, speeds, and damages in a dogfight with Tyranid ground and air units, or something like that. I keep my fluff loose, works better that way. Anyways, laugh away at my mistake!

Sorry for the lack of updates... but, I figure I'd post a teaser of what I am thinking of buying AND painting first.

That looks very large...

Hey all, sorry for the lack of updates. My paints came in two days ago, so I can finally paint stuff however, I've also set a lot of new priorities for myself since I will be leaving for three months on the 27th of this month and I will have pretty much no contact with any social media including this website, phones, internet, etc. I also met a girl now who totally distracts me from everything too, sorry guys... (She supports my "toys" though as we jokingly call them even though she knows what this hobby is, and her older brother has RT stuff that she's trying to get for me!) I also have some Cardstock Cathedral bits made up and a Cardstock outpost built. I've also primed almost all my terrain. I'll post all this today or tomorrow, woo!

@ Gitz: It's a Battle barge sized ship for BFG! If I purchase it I will be painting it for my SoO. The guy who makes them is on DakkaDakka and is well known. His name escapes me though. Anyways, I think it will be an awesome paperweight for my desk.

I have returned from the warp! So yeah, I joined the military and I got hurt, it required a surgery and got peb'd out with an Honorable Discharge surprisingly. (Don't worry about me, the VA is actually taking care of me.) Anyways, now that I am back home I have lots of spare time since I currently can't work, so I decided to take up electric violin and my SoO army again. I hope this isn't breaking rules by necroing my old thread. But, here goes!

So I don't have much to show right now, since I just unboxed my army out of storage. I took pictures of my setup and all so you can see all my cool Scibor, SWM, FW, and Kromlech bits. I also took pictures of my first bases I ever did, the flight one isn't finished yet but, I have to put bark and leaves on the flight stand tree. I also took my Stormtalon conversion apart as it was midway in the progress department, and... I used it for terrain for the LoER contest. I entered it before I realized I will be out of the U.S in Stockholm, Sweden so I can't post it on the deadline, and I entered so late everyone has a head start. I am not quitting though, I will build this hillside ramshackle wall and guard tower that was fortified in the middle of a Stormtalon crash. I have a Sanctum Imperialis coming in the mail and on my next paycheck I hope to get roughly 60ish dollars of SWM stuff to kit it out. I'm so excited! Here is my original LoER contest post, derp.

 Coldwill wrote:
Sorry! I can't find any Sanctum imperialis parts for my wall... but, I did butcher my Stormtalon conversion for terrain, so I guess I am posting a concept doodle...

Okay so quick edit: I didn't feel like drawing anything of quality but, I doodled a basic idea down. It's going to be a Stormtalon crash-site into the side of a wooded hill that was fortified against a xenos incursion by Space Marines. And don't laugh at the deodorant pack part on top of the guns, it is going to be green stuffed or turned into a radar dish for the tower.

Here is how the conversion used to look....

So yeah, there's that. I don't know why the image is upside down? I didn't upload it that way, sorry guys. IDK how to fix it, and it's too late at night to reupload it. Oh, I guess I should tell you guys not to be surprised but, the mods are working on changing my name to Stormwall so, if this thread disappears, just type Stormwall's third company, etc. Anyways, here are some projects I did. These are my first bases as I mentioned above I think, first flight stand which still has work to go, and my first ever 25mm base that I consider finished. What do you think? How can I improve it?



And here is the flight stand that is still a work in progress. I hope you can see the concept though? What do you think of the overall concept?


I also worked on that diorama/objective marker some more. I primed it and I am magnetizing it to the plinth and the marine to the stand.


And yeah, I primed the battlefront. I have to sand the rocky hills I made, they came out lumpy. I have to do that for all the putty hills though, so I will probably just post all the hills that are old on this when they've reached their next step, etc.

Here are the pictures of my new setup. I have an old laptop table that I am using currently for my models. I am unsure if you can see some of the bits and SWM stuff laying around but, I took a picture just incase you guys with the sniper vision can see what I have.




Oh and off topic, the reason I've not made any progress today is because I made these book-ends. I figure you guys would tell me what you thought about them though. I might make some warhammer FB ones later. (They look better in person by the way, the picture/clutter under them makes them look lopsided on the sides.)



I can't post it right now but, my girlfriend has a 2nd edition Rhino that she stole from her brother's attic for me, I am going to convert it to a Dakka Predator using Anvil Industry's miniguns for sponsons and I will either buy a SWM tank cannon for the auto cannons, or I will simply scratch build my own.

Lastly, I guess while this blog is slow I will eventually get to a point where I wow people because I love converting and I learn more each time. I can't wait to finish all this terrain. I will keep this blog on the straight and narrow this time, I won't let it get the dust it had before. (I was preoccupied but, I mentioned this at the top of the post.) I guess you guys should know that by the end of this blog I hope to have an entire Fortress monastery done, made of cardstock, foam, and lots of Sanctum Imperialis(es?) It's going to be a long trip but, no one said modelling was easy. I learn more from you all each and every day.

So yeah, I've returned. Let's see what I can make.

Huaaaa! I LOVE Sons of Orar, consider me subbed mate! The miniatures are looking great, can't wait to see some paint

LDP

MaxZ wrote:
That objective marker is sweet. To really add to the Greek/roman effect,I would get the plumes roman centurions wore(the one going down the middle of the helmet, Greek style, and the one going parallel to the shoulders, centurion style, like in the sternguard box. I think few makes them to

Thanks! I can't believe I missed your posts, really.... really, late reply on my part. I have some of these coming in:



And I will be ordering these for my command squad/sternguard. (Next time I am payed.)

 lipsdapips wrote:
Huaaaa! I LOVE Sons of Orar, consider me subbed mate! The miniatures are looking great, can't wait to see some paint

LDP

Thanks! I really want that retro Ultramarine look without the connotations of their over the top fluff, and the hate from many of the fans. I like retro. I like 2nd edition. I never had the luxury of RT but, if I get my hands on some RT stuff you never know what will happen. Oh and I like the color red and lots of bolter dakka. (Waaaaaaagh, I mean, wait uh... For the Emperor!) Might be some time though... I have 41 cardstock buildings to make first... forgive me mighty wargamers but, this is mostly a terrain blog now... (with lots of minis lol.)

Oh and a quick edit:

I am thinking of using these for my side sponsons on a Dakka Predator for 2nd edition Rhino Predator conversion. I just have to find a way to order two of the miniguns, and then order one tractor part with the howitzer for my TFC.


What do you guys think of that idea? I have no idea if these are too small to act as Sponsons or a TFC. But, give me your honest thoughts on the idea if you would.

Lastly, I have a test model prepared. I will do the base and prime him, and I will find some tutorials on brass and painting banners. I will post the results up and see where you guys can tell me to improve. This mini is also meant for the Great Marine Swap btw, if you're interested.


Oh and a quick edit:

 Gitsplitta wrote:
I love a good base. Can really make a figure. Very excited to see what you do & will be gleefully stealing your basing ideas. That base looks fantastic!

I may have pointed it out, I may not have. The basing idea is from Ron's From the Warp blog. I just use fall based leaves and add stumps and other bits, random terrain, dead marines to it, etc.

Okay so I'm back! I test primed a figure in the comfort of the shed. (It's like 36 degrees F, with freezing rain.) The cold affected how the primer adhered to the figure, it flaked off on his left knee (camera right.) I am really proud of the red on the back. After a few tutorials and trial and error, I found that 8-10 inch away from the model is ideal for perfect coverage, making two or three small light passes at a horizontal level with the model. The front is a bit thicker as I was still learning.

The white frustrates me as it was a cheapo walmart spray but, I will be building over it using Adminstratum grey and Celestra grey, with a touch up of White scar where it is needed. I have taken pictures to show the worse of it. I am really unhappy with how thick it came on the shoulderpad with the parchment, and worse yet my cold shivering fingers left a fingerprint I had to go over, ruining it a bit.



As for the base, I added a servo skull and another stump, and took another touch up round with the primer. I am happy with it, I will begin painting the mud and rock scheme, with the fall leaves on top as per norm with my bases. I have no idea how to paint the skull yet.



Oh and I made a cool banner idea for my Captain/Chapter Master's base. I am thinking of extending the banner down and making it flow with the wind with greenstuff and cardstock.


Please forgive my terrible priming skills, this was my first time and I'm a beginner. (My excuses won't last forever, haha. ) I still cannot wait to see how this miniature turns out, and I hope that I can make it good enough to trade in the GMS. I hope I learn more from it, I've already learned a ton about priming from tutorials and that hour of practice.

Those are excellent builds Coldwill, and the basic colors on the one really have me looking forward to what you'll be doing with it. To borrow an overused meme... MOAR!

Sigh... they got me again. I bought another Sanctum off ebay for a wall project that I will be mentioning below, haha.

Anyways, I almost have the miniature painted up. I may have overly washed him but, hey, they're gonna get dirty fighting nids. Speaking of Nids, I need Hormagaunt and genestealer heads, mostly the former. I am also eyballing a Carnifex head for four bucks. I am also thinking about paying someone to make me some microsol decals and resin banners? I don't know who I could find to do that, I'm probably going to have to do it myself.

@ Git: Moar!!!! Is coming! I made a small tower and I am working on a cheesier surprise conversion from White Dwarf... hint.. somewhere in issue 95-98 I think. I also washed that Son earlier thst I posted. Looking good. I also tried my hand at long flowing greenstuff banners to my ire...

I don't suppose you have some spare RT era or 2nd edition Predator tank turrets? Preferable cannon ones not las? I need 2. (Obviously if anyone has em I will buy em.) I'd also like an old school 2nd edition Razorback turret for another project.



You see... I'm trying to decide if this should be a White Dwarf edition 118 Vindicator... or I might go with a predator, preferably I will build a "Dakka Predator." I wish someone would tell me how much a Predator and Vindicator cost comparatively. This army will be troop spam via drop-pods probably... I'm scared too many heavy things such as a Contemptor, a Vindi and a Predator will screw my troop cost. (I picked this guy up for like 23 bucks. I could have gone lower with an offer but, I didn't want to risk losing it.)

Is it bad I really want this one too? I made an offer of 15$ for it. I want the whirlwind part for an anti-gun batter on my wall for the LoER contest! I want the Rhino well... because I can make it into one of the above?



Also to avoid confusion you all. I am now known as Stormwall. This is to avoid some spill over from some random person having my name who has a bad reputation/to rep my youtube channel which I will be making later this year.

This looks like fun!

I'll see what I've got in the motorpool Stormwall.

@EyeamRai: Thanks! I am having a blast! I'm currently working on a very, very old style of conversion, which may or may not have to do with hygiene. (Only the vets from the start will understand this.) I'm also working on some wall and bunker bits for my Fortress still.

@ Gitslitta: Like always, you're a hero. I splurged a bit and got another RT era Rhino... The yellow one from my earlier post. So once I go to Stockholm in December, I'll have three haha. I will probably be using a round turret on one to make it a Dakka Predator, and I might use another Round turret or a 2nd edition razorback turret on a side project. Since I just bought the yellow tank, I now have a whirlwind turret that I may use on my terrain as well.

I dug up some other blueprints up in an old white dwarf PDF. I won't ruin it but, two of these "tanks," are going to be surprises I hope.

All this on top of my incomplete terrain that needs sanding and priming. (Anywhere you see white in my earlier posts on said terrain...) and on top of the GMS for Solar_Lion! (Solar said he was down by the way, it has me super excited since his yellow colors are the stuff.)

Edit: Discovered Zinge Industries, I am so terribly excited! I want one of these but, I'm poor and I don't know what this would represent with SM's.

Cool blog. Some neat poses going on and your terrain has a lot of potential too.

@ GrimDork: Thanks! I try to make the Marines somewhat original, they're static if you don't convert them. Terrain is really what I enjoy to do, I just never seem to have the right supplies and as a result projects shift off and on the backburner. I'm waiting on some SWM stuff to arrive, along with plasticard and foam so I can continue the LoER contest entry.

Eventually it will all be done. I'm just trying to focus on how to clean this blog up a bit and get some actual results done once I have a free day to do things.

You've got some really cool stuff going on, very nice terrain work especially.

@ Casey: Thanks. Problem is I run outta stuff I need or get bored and hop to the next project before going back to it once I have parts.

No updates to post. Got more work on my mountain wall/bulwark for LoER contest which I won't make in time/have to post but, be disqualified since I will be in Sweden all of December.

Anyways. So much stuff going on. Working on extension kit for MK1 rhinos longer and look kinda like FW Spartan Tanks, and a siege shield for my Vindi. No updates on Solars Marine. Gonna take a painting lesson or two at my FGLS and use their bit box for a scheme test.

So yeah. I have the largest update in the history of this blog ready *cough getting to prime and flocking stage on something,* but, my HP laptop got water on it and it died. That's why my blog has been quiet. Sorry guys. :(

I have an order of plasticard which came in and some lovely stuff coming from SWM. I also will have to learn how Liquid GS works as I got some.

Oh and my Girlfriend helped me get some CHS shoulderpads for reviews/to support their company. So much for her picking on my "plastic soldiers." :p

Hope I have something soon. I feel bad this blog is all talk and no walk since I have yet to do any finished painting, and that it is so messy. Makes me feel a bit bad honestly as I know atm this boog is a bit crappy.

Edit: Here is Techmarine Hilts creating something for the chapter. Yes. A certain bit also moved between pictures.

Hey all, no updates. I did some more work on the TFC but, it isn't worth posting. I've stripped and unassembled all the rhinos and I started on a turret scratchbuild for the one which is to be a predator.

Gits apparently is sending me some gift for Christmas, and I still have lots of things coming in the mail.

I will be gone till January 5th though, I am catching a plane to Sweden tomorrow, and will enjoy my stay there.

(I may update though, I am seeing GW Stockholm and their local hobby shops, and I may be casting some cheap spotlights and crates to send to other blogs that I like.) So yep, that's all that is going on.

Oh, and I got some Necromunda and Imperial Bastion (2nd edition,) PDFs. Once the Stormraven is coming along (I may cheat with a Stormwolf hull for my variant to speed it up,) I will start on a Imperial Firebase and Imperial Bastion scratchbuild project log. Of course, there is all the other stuff I'm putting off, heh... it will get done I swear! Oh and once I get back, I am cleaning this blog up, it's a mess in my mind.

TFC is showing promise, keep it up.

@ Grim Dork: Thanks! I hope it will be worth of some Zinge bits soon, I am ordering these for the bottom of it as soon as I return stateside:



Okay all, so I've been holding back what I've been working on for a huge update but, I will spill the beans early since it tis the season, etc. I have no idea what to do with my LoER Contest entry. I thought I would be further along by now but, it took forever to get my SWM tiles. I have not gotten to finish the rockscape, lay down the tile and finish the ruined manufacturum part of it, or prime it. I hope the LOER will let me post it up unto the thread in Jan though, probably just for displays sake once I have it done. I guess I will still make the big bump but, I've purchased a dremel, and began priming my miniatures with Army Painter Red. I have also started on all their bases, which I am stocked about.

Okay so moving on to my next project which will come after the wall LoER piece. It's an awful paint sketch of concept, whttp://i71.photobucket.com/albums/i154/Mekboy/Novamarines/DSC00191.jpghich I have attached below the other images. So I made a thread not too long ago about proxies/counts as and everyone thought it would be fine, etc. My FGLS heavily promotes this, after I questioned them about this. So to a lot of money on a SR kit, I am making my own. (My build will cost 35-40$ total.)



So I've taken the wings and made my own engines, and copied this wing design. The guns on this ship will be nose based and in pods, much like FW's Fire Raptor or whatever it is called. The top will have a Thunderhawk styled gun mount, which I am stoked about. I've began that and the little gun pods, turns out ping pong balls and a whiffle ball cut in half work for both. I have decided to take Silver Oxides Dropship that he never finished and make my own version of it. I believe step one though will be taking a Stormwolf hull and cutting the top off. Then taking said top and using it as the top of a dropship similiar to Silver Oxides, which I have posted. The third step would be not making the tail, which I've marked with a three. The hull design at that point will be elongated, to make it the size of a Chapterhouse Stormraven. Where the blank space is on the side ahead of the cut will be the gun pods on either side, and behind them, sliding doors like a blackhawk. Then obviously the tail design will be a top fin of my own making out of 1mm plasticard like the rest of the ship (or metal, I have made a prototype out of metal, and it may end up being used.) The side fins on the tail will be those from a Stormwolf kit, and the bulbous nose of this dropship design will have some smaller fins that come with the Stormwolf near the front. Under the tail will be the Stormraven rear door or my own, that way this ship has the same amount of doors or more compared to the real model.


I've taken some fan bits from Machinator's store and purchased a spotlight kit for this beast of a build as well. The fan bits will be mounted to some engine shaped light up night fishing bobbers, and they will double as the on off switch. Ignore the paperwork being blotted out, it is personal.


The only thing I have not planned for is landing gears. I have no clue if it should be modeled with some. What do you think? I am thinking since it will be so large, to use Zinge industry treads or Anvil Industry gun turrets for smaller landing gears with treads. (I want Anvil's product but, it turned out they were WAAAY too small for my TFC. Hence why I am buying those treads I mentioned above. Speaking of zinge, that tank bike I posted earlier. I am thinking of literally cutting it in half, using the bottom for the prow landing gear, and the top as a gun emplacement for the old school Rhino Bunker/Imperial Firebase I want to create. What do you think?

Oh and the Vindicator before I broke it down with my wip librarian, Techmarine, Apothecary, and Sergeant.


I forgot to post my work on that. Should I have the trophy carnifex head or, is it stupid? I am thinking of removing it and putting an old school eagle decal on it. (with the lightning bolts.) I can't decide, maybe you guys can comment on that.

And lastly, here is the predator broken down, minus some extra bits I've given it. I don't understand why the one half didn't strip of paint, I've soaked it in LA cleaner about... 8 times? It won't come off. Can primers stain it like that? The other bits are stripped too but, same problem with the bluish door and black crate.


Oh and last thing, enjoy your christmas, hope it snows. (It's already started here.)

Edit: The picture got baned! (deleted, shouldn't of had it on the dakka thing I guess.) Our glorious overlords don't support the holidays, Yakfaceandinsaniakilluminati2014confirmed!

Anyways, see you all after Sweden, I will check and lurk but, not update anything on this blog.

Man I missed a lot!

I have returned from the warp! So yeah, I joined the military and I got hurt, it required a surgery and got peb'd out with an Honorable Discharge surprisingly. (Don't worry about me, the VA is actually taking care of me.) Anyways, now that I am back home I have lots of spare time since I currently can't work, so I decided to take up electric violin and my SoO army again. I hope this isn't breaking rules by necroing my old thread. But, here goes!

Never! It's your blog, it can take a long time between, you never should worry about resurrecting it. Well, honestly I don't, I lose track of time all the time and post months later.

Great stuff going on. Your colors are great, nice strong red! If you have trouble with the white spray, I have had good luck with flat Krylon or Rustoleum from the hardware store.

You've got quite a force growing here, love it. Oh and Sons of Dorn was great.

Good luck on the gunship

@GrimDork: Thanks! I hope it turns out well.

@Gor: Thanks for the tip and the kind words, those go farther than anything else I find.

Okay so an update on this blog in general. Once the Sons are done, I will make this not just a terrain blog but, I guess my personal blog. (In name and function, as it stands it is already that.) Yeah, I know it is planning for the future as I haven't painted my guys yet but, well there it is anyways. Once the Sons reach 1000 I might make another chapter worth 500 points. I will be posting a lot of fluff about them but, first... I have to show you guys something my girlfriend scored from her brother for me, that was sitting in an old storage crate. As each major project is completed, or a surprise of some major sort comes up, I will break it into an update and put it on the main page.

*Cough, cough* Okaaay, yeah, a few people do that already on dakka. Doesn't mean it can't help me clean this mess of a blog up!

Anyways, picture below.



Ta-da! Well, it isn't so impressive. It is a nice find though. I get to keep my pick of the lot in return for selling these for my girlfriend's brother.

Here are some more pictures, I warn you, these poor marines are scarred for life. I think three are missing there bolters and one or two are missing backpacks. Literally, the picture speaks for itself.


And these chaos marines were found in the box like this.


I think however, the finds get nicer as time goes on. The dreadnought and the two boxes of CSM are still relatively intact. I am unsure if anything is missing, so I was hoping if one of you could tell me if everything is in place.


It will take time to sell these, though I may just send him some kronor and give away some of the worse condition marines to good blogs, or I might continue with my plans to cast up some spotlights and crates/give away SWM gift card. I will decide when I fly back to the U.S with these and if there is interest I will put them up on the swap shop and ebay.

The good news is, is that I get to claim my pick of the lot, which I did!


Moving on to my plans for the Rhino, Gits messaged me in his mek glory and got me to thinking, oi, you should post your plans with another paint diagram so he understands your weird PMs.



That is exactly what I plan to do with it. I am trying to make it have the "feel," of a MK 1 Spartan tank, without the height. I will be using some of Machinator's treads. I might do this to all my rhinos chassis, (Vindicator, Predator, and Razorback,) or just to the Razorback. What are your thoughts? Sorry for the bad paint diagram again.

Lastly, here are some bits about those new space marines. Here is their scheme, I got the idea from Phutarf's green.



The brighter portion of the green is what I would aim for. The rest of the marine would be standard boltgun, as shown here. (It seems their painter has colors that are a bit off from the actual color in real life so, go by the picture of the green above for how it should look.)


I was going to spend hours writing up there fluff from my phone on to here but, it is late and I want to sleep. However, if you like them or think the scheme has merit/are interested, I will post the fluff up on here.

Yep, count me as interested Stormwall good luck with the green and remember practice makes perfect - I like the juxtaposition with the grey (I assume grey rather than silver?) - the contrast between a gloss and matt finish should set each other off nicely

Ok - that'll teach me to read posts properly - standard boltgun - however, if I can proffer an opinion is dull it down with a good wash of Nuln oil, keep it dark/muted. But Thats just my thoughts - let's see what you do!

@Phutarf: Wow. You commented on my blog.

Yes. I love that green and you are right in assuming it is a dark grey. I am thinking I will approach it like an old Knights of Blood figure I did. (Worst ever and first ever but, I learned a good grey from it.) 50-50 Boltgun with Abbadon Black mix, then a thin second coat of boltgun, followed by Army Painter Strong Ink (think Devlan Mud,) or Nuln oil. The green will be yours.

So keeping that in mind, should I go with that scheme or should more parts be green and the shoulders grey? IE: Ultramarines but, blue being grey and the gold being green? Idk. I think it is good as is.

The Fluff as promised. (Warning, late night fluff writing, could be heretical! Also I repeat a lot of this garbage over and over by mistake since it is compiled notes I have jotted down.)

Lol - I know I'm generally self obsessed, but I have been known to comment on other blogs from time to time! Anyway, I like what you're doing, and the fluff behind the new Chapter is great - do I detect a small Game of Thrones influence perhaps?

Regards colour scheme - I wouldn't go for any more green if I were you, partly because it looks good as is and partly coz I know how annoying it is to get looking right! shoulders will be the 'easiest' part to do the green on as they have the surround (assuming you're MK6+ (I think)), and tbh, I'd NOT do the chest Eagles green either - I'ddo a muted gold as that will complement both grey and green...

@Phutarf: See, when I was making the chapter, I was going for a miniature rebellion, ala horus heresy where the bad half of the chapter is still loyalist and the true faction goes renegade for a while before emerging victorious. Except without the machinations of chaos till the end, and only the leader and his commanders are affected. Because battle-brother fighting battle-brother over their primarch and the future of their chapter is gritty enough and more compelling to a degree if it lacks chaos.

Uh, I used pike as I wanted another word for spear. Unfortunately, that combined with the water immediately makes it seem as if I was going for GOT. I only realized that midway through the write up. I want a nobledark chapter, that knows the Imperium and even them themselves are fighting a losing war but, struggle against it anyways, ie: their warcry. I got the idea from this video:


A chapter dedicated to the Emperor (like the chapter I got the idea from, the Emperor's Spears.) struggling to find out if Dorn is their papa, and if they can trust the Inquisition. (no. ) For instance, their fortress is on top of a huge mountain, surrounded by one of those cavernous cave pits that you would find in New Zealand, and the first test for neophytes is to jump down it out of faith. If they don't, it is servitor time. Anyways, goal of the chapter is to see how my painting skills go after this first army is done, which I cannot even update as I am in Sweden right now, and to make a darker themed chapter that has Scandinavian influences, without being Viking-berserkers-in-space-wulf-you-get-it-already. I have an actual piece of story fluff I can post too, which reflects the state of the chapter after the war from a veteran sgt POV if you are still interested.

Edit: Been scheming and I have the fluff piece done. Got a question for you all though. What do you think of doing a special squad in the camo pattern below, such as a Command Squad or just the 5 man tactical that follows my librarian around, much like a set of campaign camo. Think... tranquility snipers or that one campaign where the Salamanders are yellow.



What do you think of the SoO colors in that pattern, instead of Red and Black, it would be Red and White. Since the theme from here on out will be "updated RT." Penny for my fellow dakkanauts words?

Edit #2:

To support chapterhouse after their long war I want to buy some shoulderpads and I saw this base. I love nids, in the killing them sense. I can tell what that base is made for obviously. However, since the concept chapter fight "Sea Dragons," on their homeworld, what do you think of that being covered in water effects and the sandworm being painted in teal, the rocks being the black slate I proposed earlier. I have no experience with Woodland Scenics water but, I was thinking the raised sand around the worm would make the water appear to be rippled if I applied it? (All this of course, after I put a small extended lip on to the base with plasticard.) Thoughts on this? I am just trying to get concepts ready so when I return I have more things to do, haha.

Very interesting. Such great potential on display. Great poses on the mini's and your terrain is looking awesome. Subbed.

Hey all. I drew up some things so I could update this.

Only reason I felt like doing that was so I'd have an excuse to wish you all a Merry Christmas. God Jul, Merry Christmas, and happy holidays everyone. Big thanks to everyone who commented on this plog and helped me get to this point.

My girlfriend and I ran it through Adobe Illustrator and made this. What do you think? That is the proposed chapter icon. I thought about making the black quarters yellow since they are the "Emperor's Stars," but, I will leave that up to you guys. What do you think of it?

I like your stuff Stormwall! consider me a follower!

I think it's an excellent insignia. Just make sure it's something that you can replicate on a mini. The diamond looks fine, but I'm not sure about the lightening bolts.

You also need a motto underneath!

Merry Christmas all! Thanks for page 3 status

@ Vel: Thanks! That means a lot. Stick around, cool stuff ahead even if I am slow in the paint department. :p I am out of country so it is an odd time for you to follow but, bear with me I return in Jan. I have something up my sleeve for Sweden though, I will be posting it soon I hope. My goal is to make this a better blog by breaking it down into benchmarks with links back to the front page. My first goal is to finish things up for the GMS.

@Gits: Hey! I actually got the idea from the lightningbolt aquila and some old decal sheets. I think I will make the above image a tiny one so it can be made into a decal sheet. I got the idea of the star from Chivarly Medieval Warfare. Couldn't find an image similiar so my girlfriend helped me make my own heraldric star. I am thinking about on larger surfaces the star will be a field of stars made up of three. What do you think? Originally I was tempted to make it have a trail behind it instead of lightning as my girlfriend and I saw a shooting star (possibly two,) on our cruise to Finland. I just want the emblem to feel RT. I almost wanted to make a circle of lightning bolts to surround it and shrink it down to be clenched inside of an Imperial Fist. But, I decided it would ruin it as there are so many Sons of Dorn already. (These guys don't know their Primarch, ((though they suspect Dorn,)) so it is all about the big E.) The last idea was to have a single stylizef wave ripple at the base of the star since their homeworld is water and since they are the Emperor's Stars, it shows the Imperium is drowning as dual symbolism, or that the star is still afloat even though there is rising water which could represent the rebellion and penitant crusade.

I get what you are saying about the bolts but, check this canon chapter out I found after I started this project.

Lexicanum link: http://wh40k.lexicanum.com/wiki/Storm_Warriors

I agree with you Gits. Yes it does need a motto. I will add "To stand against Fate," under it.

Hey guys. Sorry for the lack of updates it's due my VA disability claim being denied, both my laptops are in the shop for repair, my phones camera is busted along with the phone needing repair, and I got a ticket from a state trooper today. However, I am mustering the courage to being my mini scout tank/mark one land raider and I have wired up some of machinator's LED kits which was positively enjoyable. Next update will have a lot of decals, graphics, and plans, maybe some fluff for my chapter.

Most importantly though it will have this years goals for this blog as I want to make LOER/high end PM blog worthy content. First thing is first though on my to do list, I have to do two Marines for the grand marine swap (one for solar_lion,) along with a surprise to go with the second Marine. The second Marine will be going to a good friend.

Also, a very important Pmer is sending me some supplies. I cannot wait. So yeah, sorry for the lack of paint and overhype for nothing for 2014. 2015 will be much better, I promise. Also, recently I have been making friends at my FLGS like you guys suggested and they're going to give me painting lessons on the 1st of next month, and they're letting me use their airbrush. They offered to let me borrow up but, the idea is nervewracking for me so turned it down.

Granted, this blog is an adventure so I must ask if anyone here has resources for life size space marine armor? I hate to spoil a great surprise but, I am a bit overwhelmed with the notion as it will be my first cosplay. I hope to be making a set of executioner chapter mk 5-6 for Comic Con this year. (Girlfriend's suggestion.) If you got anything, please, PM me?

Thanks all, you made 2014 a blast. Hope this year is more productive I hope this post doesn't break rules by not having any content, I just felt like I have been neglecting this a bit too much.

Hey Stormwall, hate that VA brickwall they toss up all the time.
Hope it works out.

I like the icon and motto ribbons, looks cool. Hang in there brother.

Thank you, SWM sent me the E-mail

No problem, enjoy it! I hope you get some apc/tanky/basey goodness!

Speaking of tanks, tacticals and terrain, (oh my!) I am working on one right now. I best go and get fetch a camera...

This also means the (planned,) slumber on this plog has ended and I must update the front page and this year's goals.

So for 2015 without further ado, here are my goals!

For my P&M blog:
*Send a gift to (at least,) two Dakkanauts!
*Finish all or at least half of the terrain I have shown. (Yes, they're not arctic lol. They need to be sanded and then basecoated. One of them is base-coated but, wasn't sanded... so that one is a mess.)
*Finish the bit box tank! (I don't have a name for it yet.)
*Finish the GMS Marines for Gits and Solar before I paint anything else.
*Scratchbuild three scout-class Land Raiders. (They're tinier versions of the standard MK.1 Land Raider.)
*Paint up my 3-D Printed Ghost from Destiny!
*Scratchbuild the Stormraven/Stormfang dropship for my Inquistor and his retinue!
*Scratchbuild a Fallen Dropship from Destiny. (2016?)

*Finish the Sons of Orar army, move on to the Emperor's Stars project.
*Create Fort Snowhawk from Skyrim. (Realistically, this is a 2016 project.)

*Create a giant gravity cruiser big enough to display my armies! (Think Santa Klaus' Athena project. Think of an aircraft carrier that had a baby with a train, in 40k scale. This is definitely a 2016-2017 project but, the sketches/doodles are lready made and will be posted in a blog lull.)
*Get a light box? New workstation?
* Start my Epic 40k chapter!
* Become a DCM?
* Become a Secret Weapon Miniature Frontliner?
* Organize this into clear and concise summaries, to serve as chapters of a sort.


Blog/Personal goals:
* Be more active consistently throughout the year (i.e. no 6-month disappearances like last year).
* Attend 3-4 Games.
* Attend a painting session at my FGLS.
* Enter a LOER contest?
* Top secret.
* Stop Cheerleading. I will be honest, I stole this from Gits. I think cheerlead too much but, I'm so inexperienced I do not feel like I should give C&C as that would make me a hypocrite due to my own hobby failings.
* Lower the hype with posts, and create a stir with actual solid results.
* Hey. Actually... paint something?
* Rebuild my body as it was in the USMC, strengthen before the 2 year predicted mark. Finish Physical Therapy next week. Get big. As big as the picture below. (I wish haha.)

* Get a 3.0 GPA at college.
* Achieve the goal of my blogs/hobbying in general. Making modern 40k more RT/RT more modern.

I will come back to this in a year, and see how I did. I'll probably fail but, I'ma go into this swinging.

I look forwards to see what you do on that tank!

Hey all. It's been a while. So my car has been in the shop all week as I hit some black ice and got in a wreck. The frame is being stretched out. Anyways, I'm fine but, it gave me more time for the hobby this week. I also finally got inspired instead of dismayed and instead of working on the mini-scout patter Mk1 Land Raider (It needs a name badly,) I have prepped Solar's Son of Orar for the painting day at my FLGS (It's on the 14th,) and I began threw together a random tank out of bits I have slowly been trading for and gathering. This tank is not a known variant, just a box with treads and guns. I would like to imagine that the Junior Techmarine assigned to my Son's decimated company has created this abomination and defiled several STC's by combinging them to fight the Tyranids.

Spring break has turned out be a blessing.

Knightley and Heliodore's works inspire me quite often. You may recognize these two images.


So I had already wrote this long as heck post and then my Chrome decided to say "nope." Anyways, here goes round two! I hope you all will forgive me for blurry garbage pictures. My phone's camera as you all know has been shattered so I am using and older Fujifilm. The lighting in my room with this camera looks terrible so I hope you all will forgive me and accept my apology beforehand. I plan on getting my phone camera fixed soon.

I have been saving since the start of this blog to upgrade my hobby/plastic crack work area. I went out and bought a new desk, and also a giant table. The real hero of the blog is not just this table (which I will give you a cookie if you can spot my various projects on it now but, don't try too hard as this picture is god awful blurry,) but this amazing dremel that I got for ten bucks at Harbor Freight.




So before I show you my tank, I jokingly started a Dreadnought to make the brodown in Para's painting competition larger. (It won't be my entry but, I restored it for laughter's sake. ((You can't spell Slaughter without Laughter.))

So he went from this terrible form to a more imposing and worthy setup...







I am really pleased with the basing but, moreso with the dreadnought and the AOBR sergeant. The base was a 60mm blasted wetlands from SWM that I put potted plant bark and a Santum wall on, along with SWM tree stumps. I proceeded to add my AOBR sergeant who had a replacement pointer hand from the tactical box and a spare maxmini headswap done. The battle brother who is preserved in the dread fought bravely against the nids and as a result proudly wears his chapter icon and a trophy.

I also made this guy over the weekend. He will eventually be apart of my Inquisitor's retinue as a guard. I believe he came from a Feudal world, where he originally was to be recruited to the guard but, intercepted and recruited by a more benevolent and manipulative Inquisitor... I got him on ebay for a few bucks and had a blast modifying him. I spoilered him due to size.



You can also see my other retinue member, I searched forever to get him. Good ole' LE 10, you vexed me forever.

Onwards to my cheapo practice/box tank. Before I got plasticard/while waiting on it to arrive I began by taking credit cards/old cards in general and making a box. I did this for support. I then used some side parts from what I assume to be a Leman Russ tank to make copies once the plasticard arrive. I noticed immediately that support was an issue so I ran a card horizontally in the center and added a second layer to the panels. Once that was done I promptly used a leather punch to put two holes in either side (front and back,) to add styrene tubing to allow maximum support.




As of this point I thought to throw this out as it looked horrible and do it the proper way as you see on the Oddball tank blog or in Heliodore's work. Ruglud also does some great work, which I have learned much from. I decided to make this a learning exercise. I asked myself " What if I can take this cheap box and make it amazing in time for the monthly painting event at my FGLS? What if can learn techniques from this and not feel bad for wasting materials?" (As this is cheap.)

So I made what you see above, and began to eagerly wait for my Zinge supplies to arrive. However, I got bored and began the old school bubble predator turret design. I began by cutting an old chapstick container in half.



I ended up with this. I used a turret, a spare marine, and another one of those Maxmini helmets that deserve to be used but that I don't fully like. In addition I wired through a Machinator spotlight. It needs greenstuffing around the area. I then made a box and began gluing on bits such as smoke launchers. I was originally going to make rails but, they don't fit with the RT hatch there.

Here is a 360 of sorts of it.






Once more I waited patiently, before my Techmarine shouted "Incoming!" He was right too, the product I got was fantastic and allowed him continue his diabolical STC defiling and merging.



So to review the product, it was a harder resin than what I am used to (forgeworld,) however, it is sturdy and wonderful to work with. I enjoy it a lot to be honest. Just the right amount of density and workage. Kit even threw in these extra and suitable disgusting creatures.


(I have no use for them, I think I will pass on the Zinge love and give them to someone who wants them on Dakka. I love the gesture though, it meant a lot to me as a customer.)

I also erred on my part. I ordered the wrong size treads for my TFC...

I have decided they will still go on that project, they will just act as half tracks for the rear of it.

Ahem though, this blog is about my first ever scratchbuild and I am going off on tangents! I used the thick credit cards along with the side plasticard to cut a channel for a rhino panel/front to be mounted. I added the predator turret base to it. To clean it up I cut the tips of the Styrene off and added small nails to cap it/add more support.

I loved working with Zinge resin. Here is where I moved on to the treads. Here are some progress shots.



So here is where I worked on another marine. If you recall this head popped up earlier in the blog. Brother Thantos acts ready to spot for the front lower turret that I had added a new barrel to from a soap dispensor and I made a plow based loosely off this guys great design over here: http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/627608.page (He sent me a pm and helped me out. Awesome.) Instead of putting the door "teeth," bits towards the ground I did the opposite. I will make a curved piece for the bottom or sculpt one.




I then noticed a huge issue. If you look at the original turrets for the first predators, they sit flush. This one cannot due to the screw on lip.


So, I changed dremel heads and went to town.

After which, I ended up with the turret how it is now. I did a dry fit and drill holes to house my wires. Here is a loose, and I mean terribly loose concept from earlier in the work stage (after the turret had work done but before the treads were,) of how it should end up. It is a bad picture, no excuse for it. However I did add a jerry can (you can barely see it,) and a back hatch. I had pictures for that however, they were too blurry to put up. I now have to greenstuff it to even it out, fix the box on the back, and add a 50mm base to the bottom of it along with a wire case for the fuel can.


So that is basically all I have done so far. I would have had a shorter post with more progress between each picture however I ran out of super glue. I will finish the other side's treads probably tomorrow and then work on the hull and engine design.

Here are some other bits I didn't feel like mentioning above that deserve mention here.

I began on a basket for my fuel reservoir. I used a styrene tube, two brad nail tips and some scrap parts from a family members factory. (I am thinking of casting these up.)

Continuing my work I made a fuel tank from two plastic cogs. I will add more detail with card and sculpt on to them, and if they turn out well I may cast these up too.

I also sanded these down. They were just scrap in my FLGS' bit box, so I traded some stuff for them. I sanded one smooth and kept the detail on the other. They are going on the outside of my tank as skirts but, I will be adding detail to them.

Any suggestions? I am thinking of adding boxy melta-gun gunports to the side that my Marines can shoot out of and maybe some rhino doors.

That is all for now. Sorry for the lack of content. I guess to sum it all up, Blood and Skulls, SWM, and Zinge are great! I am waiting on one last batch of parts, if I get those in hopefully I will have this done and ready for paint at the FGLS event this weekend along with that GMS marine.

Also, something I almost forgot to mention and if you have read this far then you are a champion and you deserve my thanks because that is a waning and waxing wall of crap, haha.

Two year goals completed!
* Become a DCM?
* Select two PMer's to send a gift to!


Now to be honest those two goals are supremely easy compared to the others but, I am glad to be making some slow progress against my goals for 2015 (which I added to the front page when I last updated it.)

I would like to give a shoutout to Gits and Shas, they have been wonderful supporters of my work so far and egged me on with the comments. They send me PMs and help me when I ask a question or get in a bind. (I would actually pm them more but, they have their own projects and I'm scared I'll become a pest lol.) They're really great members and deserve a moment.

If you haven't seen their blogs (which I guarantee all of you have,) they are here.
Gits' "Rebuilding the Mantis Warriors," Blog: http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/289929.page (Though he is working on his orks and grots as of late, they can be found in his signature.)
Shasolenzabi's "Been Seeking out Oddball Tanks," blog: http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/6540/326377.page#7656960

Thanks for stopping by, hope to have more progress soon.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Oh, and while it is early in the morning and before I forget. I have decided once 90% of my miniatures are painted I am going to get an Imperial Knight. Now I'm going to the shop today to pick up Codex SM as I think I want to play the game this year. I also have a second SM army planned that will be double what I have now, so 2k points. (My Emperor's Stars chapter.)

However, temptation is there for the Scions. How do they play, are they worth it? Are they just guard or do they have their own supplement/codex? I wouldn't mind a Krieg and Scion funeral/parade themed army.

The real reason for this post however is to decide which FW purchase I should make. I am stuck on these two tanks:
http://www.forgeworld.co.uk/Warhammer-40000/Space_Marines/Space-Marine-Tanks/LEGION_DEIMOS_PATTERN_WHIRLWIND_SCORPIUS.html
http://www.forgeworld.co.uk/Warhammer-40000/Space_Marines/Space-Marine-Tanks/LEGION_DEIMOS_PATTERN_VINDICATOR.html
I figure by showing them now is a good time to discuss/test the waters or reactions concerning them.

EDIT: IMPORTANT FLUFF DISCUSSION CONCERNING MY CHAPTER: Please cast your viewpoints and comment on it, it would help me immensely! I am going for a full scale writing project, I want it to be something that is both believable and really, really thought out.

http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/639336.page#7657610

So yeah, comment on what crack, er, tank I should buy and maybe check out my loose ideas?

Anyways, I get PMs from you guys and comments on here too. It is really humbling, thank you all.

Thanks for the endorsement Stormwall!

I see you got the Zinge stuff, told you it was worth it! Tanks looking good!

HMmm tough choice, the Vindicator does pretty nice damage and can be used in City Fights to destroy buildings if you have the rules, the whirlwind can however reach out and touch enemy troops at greater distances than the Vindicator,,,,,

It's a real pleasure to be able to help you sort things out Stormwall, and the gift was as pleasant as it was unexpected! The only reason I am where I am on dakka (wherever that is...) is because folks took me by the hand early on. It's an honor to be able to do the same. You'll get your turn to be the mentor some day too. (and don't worry about PMing me)

I'd say build the prettiest one.

@ Shas: Hey it ain't a problem, we gotta share the views!

I wanted to use that Vindicator as just a normal Vindicator, however I do not see the experimental rules for it. I think they were taken down. I don't play city-fight, I'm a newb...

That being said, I decided the Vindi should be for my Sons, and the Whirlwind for my Stars. You will see what I chose when it arrives.

@ Gits: That means a lot. Just today I got my first PM ever telling me to keep up the work on the tank, and that it inspired them.

Honestly, that was the best reward for ever making this blog.

Actually, it's going to sound silly but I was wanting to PM you about the motorpool. I'm not wanting it, and I can wait a long time. I was worried for quite some time that you sent it to Sweden instead of the States but, logic would dictate that it would be returned as the address I gave wouldn't exist there. I honestly didn't want to be a nag or rude, I figured I'd let time sort it out.

Now concerning today's progress! So the damage to my phone costs more than a new one (I will post pictures lol,) so I will just claim it on the insurance. That means the wonky delayed posting of images from the camera will still ensue.

I noticed today that my tank's other side treads weren't gluing too well. It turns out my plasticard side piece on that side was too big, I now have to file it down to make it match. It was also too far ahead by 2mm. Drove me insane. I had to spend an hour cutting through the nails in the tubes, in which my tank of a cheapo dremel died. Alas, I knew ye too shortly. I did make him into an awesome power/shield generator though, so there is that. I have to sand down the piece now, and I think I will just do the treads before I glue it back on and repair the beams. I worked a lot on the plow today, it needs greenstuff and then a trophy glued onto it. I made an engine as well today, I just have to figure out how to bend my little styrene tubes to make RT era exhaust pipes (like on the top of the rhinos.) I burnt a major hole in my wallet, however I got a good tax run this year due to my severance pay that was a result of my injury etc. I spent too much money! I got Codex SM, the hardback from my FLGS, Greenstuff, and then I traded bits with the owner. Not content apparently, I made a 25$ order from Chapterhouse to support them as a brand, since they had a rough couple years lately, wink wink. Then still not content, I was lured by the siren call of the prettiest tank!

Forgeworld is so expensive...

No problems! and see? you have now become an inspirer of other modelers.

They will have the special rules for the vehicles in the latest FW books related to the Heresy.

Oh yeah, I started making a template for tread supports like that and then using it to help shave down the copies to a good size so the track links work. I do have images usually of the 4 pieces shaped and sized to similarity so that they get a half way decent fit!

Yes, Forge World can dent the wallet pretty deeply!

Yeah, the PM surprised me and now it makes me want to finish this little devil even quicker. I am only waiting on some trench rails from M+M now. Really bad time for the dremel to die however, this just means I should go to the hardware store (lowes,) and get a new one.

I can't contain my excitement, I was going to reveal it later and put up a finished build before paint if I got the time but here is my order.

Thanks for placing your order with Forge World. This is to confirm receipt of your order. Order Number: 1245550


It was roughly 132$ USD. Whew, I think I blew just under 200$ today getting Forgeworld, Tyranid dice, greenstuff, bits, and a codex. Also, I saw your work on the tank today. The inner cockpit is great as a model standpoint. I could almost use one as the interior of my dropship but, that would be cheating.

Another thing I should note, I almost bought more once I saw Scions were 28-30$ a box at my FLGS. Such a tempting and amazing little army. But, I know if I do that I will end up mixing Krieg in and then I will be homeless.

LOL! well, it looks like my Mad Robot package will land on my doorstep tomorrow, and possibly my Secret Weapon package as well.

@Stormwall: My fault entirely. I'm bad at remembering to send things out. Please drop me a simple PM reminding me over the next few days and that should be enough to get me moving.

Hey all, no update. I have pictures and I was ready to but, I continued far past the point of posting most of them.

Went out and got the missus a birthday gift yesterday and started our latest vacation scrapbook. Stayed up all day and night working on what I have dubbed the "Firecat," variant tank.

Had some LED issues. The switch snapped off due to removing the battery pack from the tank, and the batteries in the case burned out mysteriously. I am getting new ones to test it. I hope my parts come today, otherwise this project will have to wait a bit.

I made probably a few hundred rivets and I got some liquid greenstuff ready for the finish line. All that is left is finishing the back and front. The back is roughly 50% done I would say.
As for myself I am exhausted. Gits, I will PM you when I get a chance. I meant to do it when I put up an update. It was over some rhino bits/parts.

I really do hope I can pull this finish out that way I can take it, the Destiny 3d printed Ghost (something from the update I am holding out on ) and the GMS marine to the shop and paint them up. (I will consult the local painters and see if I need to strip that mini since I washed him to the point where he looks like Son of Orar's marines on the forum here. Nice and dirty. I believe I over-washed him but, I figured I may be in the clear as the recipe for nicer clean is to make the figure overwashed, then build up thin coats leaving the dark as shadow. All this is confusing for me, lol.)

Edit: The issue was due to the soldering in the switch of the battery pack from Blood and Skulls industries. It isn't his fault... it fell out of the tank and broke. I ordered a new one. I have developed a system to where I can get the battery in and out easily now though.

Also, as an apology for today's promised update... and barring the phone camera (at least you guys know what I am talking about now as far as my phone goes, I am getting a new one soon.)

Hey. Long time no bump. Oops. (I'll make this quick as it is 3 am here.)

So a lot of great stuff has been happening at my FGLS in addition to my same old crammed schedule. I ordered a new Samsung Galaxy and made a lightbox (thinking of printing a space scheme or a good color for the background for it.) I should have the dread and my scratchbuild tank done in a week or three if all goes well. I took lots of pictures, I am just waiting for a replacement cable for it to come in the mail.

Long story short, I felt like I should ask as it seems to be a bit random especially on Dakka but, would you guys be interested in a Battletech Batrep? I had my first game a week ago and took pictures, just incase. I am now starting to paint them as well if anyone would be interested in that on here as well.

Sure, why not?

Ditto to above. This is a blog, tell us eeevvvverthing. But seriously go for it.

Gosh.. your ambition is amazing and inspiring. I have enjoyed seeing you go through the work process on your tank.

Subbed!

@ Shas: That's the spirit.
@Ed: Thanks! Will do!
@Solar: You humble me. Your Lamenters and Gits Mantis made me start this. (Aside from another SoO chap named Ravendove. On B&C.)

Anyways. I've got so much done on the tank and I have started making barbed wire from old heat vent filters (another dakkanaut came up with it. Will link to OP tomorrow.) Furthermore, our Battletech campaign starts tomorrow. I will try for a picture but honestly, I am waiting on my new phone to arrive.

I had my battlereport almost finished and chrome crashed (or I accidentally x'd out.) Basically, I have two small games to post that were largely uneventful. I am entering Para's second paint comp and finishing the dread from the first. Got a little surprise in the works too.

I gotta get cracking. I want to play more BT and 40k now. I can't stand unpainted figures. Oh, and I gotta make room for incoming supply drops too.

Thank you all for your support as always. Really bummed about the Batrep not posting up. Pictures are in my gallery but, they don't mean much without context.

Good for you .. keep at it and enjoying it.

Hey all, I've got three long overdue updates for this week. Exams, whew!

Before I do that though, I am a bit fuzzy on Dakka's rules on casting. I am casting my own stuff but, there was space in my mold for other stuff that is GW. However, it is OOP stuff that broke easily on the original rhinos. (Hatches, those handrail bits, and the smokestack bits.) Would it you guys be upset if I posted the results up on here due to this? Because if the majority say it is wrong, I won't post my results. I feel very guilty copying even the little stuff but, this is for repairs as one of my rhinos is mostly assembled but, all the details were destroyed from postage or missing.

Please share your thoughts.

Furthermore, I already made a thread discussing this but, I have decided to change my chapter's scheme. Would you guys mind telling me what you think? Instead of the boltgun for the entire marine, this type of blue.

I don't personally see any issue casting bits to replace bits on OOP models, it's not like GW can sell you a replacement part...

PS Exams are nasty, glad I am done with them

Go for it Stormwall!

Sparkly hair gel marines?! go for it

@ Slinky: Yeah, they are. My teacher, the one I've been having issues with just screwed me out of taking one. All my classes are letting me finish early so I can go to NYC, the tickets are purchased. My English professor said we would work it out and that it was okay. She's forcing me to take it on the 11th, after classes end on the 8th. My plane takes off on the eighth so I am not taking it. I am moving over to Basic Law Enforcement training so, I don't need ENG 111 anyways. (Though I maxed all my scores when life gave me a fair shake.) If I get lucky, I can get back into the service. The U.S Coast Guard is actually considering me, and if they say no, I've already arranged a meeting with my congressman to help me with that. I will serve again, damnit.

And agreed on the part detail.

@ Shas: Your support is flattering as always! Thank you!

@ Desubot: Hey, the viking marines need something to tame their hair, right?

So some worries with the mould. I had a small mixing cup, as Blackhand's guide tells you to use: (Great reference for casting, lookie. http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/307451.page)
I made my initial pour but, had to stir the mix quick as it took three whole cups to cover everything. Except, as I took pictures to document my process for you guys, I saw one the mould evened out there was a uncovered spot. You need a lot of mould on the top, like 5-6mm to make a strong base. So I made a separate batch, we're talking 4-5 minutes into the cure time, to cover that... and provide a strong base. I hope this doesn't ruin the mould. I'm slow curing it, instead of using a lamp like he did. It makes me a bit nervous...

Give it a good cure

Intresting indeed. I need to see a test paint for the new color theme. Hint hint!

Wait this be a two part mold?

Did you do the plasticizen part line?

@Solar: Waiting on some whatever Greenshade by GW to arrive. My shop is always out of what I need. I got leadbelcher spray, just waiting on that shade like I said.

@Desu: Nope. One part. I added more while I still could because the mould had a weak spot. will check it when I get home from the VA.

Interesting colour scheme, like the idea.

Mould will be fine, done that myself a few times.

@ Cam. Thanks mate, eases the nerves to have support. Also, I do have a recipe for the next scheme. I can't wait to paint it. I will be trying it on a ship first though, considering the theme of Para's next comp.

Hey all. So I have a gut feeling and I know the executioner mech mould won't work, so I am making a new one. Meanwhile, the first mould is being filled with the Easy Cast clear resin. It takes 48 hours to hard cure, so results will have to wait.

In the meantime, here is something I forgot to post. I got distracted from the second Para competition earlier in the month and wrote this up, haha.Some day I will finish my entry! I originally posted this in the GW terrain thread when the drama first came out about this being LE. So... it's a little old but, enjoy. I will also add what I did tonight on it.

Below this was the original process of creation, in case you get on of these. They're either perfect fits or fething awful!



Here is where it stands now. I had excess clear resin from filling that mould, so I used it to create the bottom layer for my water drainage. Note the bunker that needs some GS on it, more dirt added, and the new comms array.


I also got a chance to make a lightbox. Tell me what you think of the results/what I have to do to fix it in paint/photoshop?


Results:


I think I need to fix the white balance for PC as it looks fine on my phone.

Moving on, a certain dakka user and my army buddy keep sending me distractions! Aside from having an entire battletech army (I'll post that up later once I get paint on it/have them all assembled,) random miniatures keep arriving.

From the amazing Heliodore, made by Aka_Mythos, I received a MK 1 terminator. I have begun to blu tac it to see how parts can fit. I am waiting on some FW terminator leggings from ebay. (I forgot what the name is, starts with a T.)




Thank you so much Heliodore, he will be my CM in my next army. You and Mythos rock. I'm going for a giant bolter look with him, ala Starcraft 2, to take advantage of the BS skill. Before I had this model, this model was to be my CM. However, coming in at the size of a 2nd edition Dreadnought, as much as I love him, I cannot use him I feel. Yes, some of you may know where he comes from as well.


I am thinking of just trading him for a predator and some tactical marines, because cost wise that is what I have in him. I don't want to offend anyone however by placing him in the swap shop.

Then there are these distractions! I ordered stuff a long time ago through my buddy, and it finally showed up. (Waiting on 100$ worth of Battletech Mechwarrior online sculpts though.) Along with some Epic 40k stuff (not all of it, just what I could play with. I have a plinth paperweight I am working on too. All those ships, a missile jetfoil that I will use as proxy for Battletech, and a bunker from M&M. (For Epic and BT.)


Ahem, all that aside. Mould report, then some pictures of my tank progress. Battle report next update, hopefully. I keep pushing it off as it will take some time to create.

Here is my first mould filled. The tape is where I had to remove the executioner mech, and realized I need a two piece. The tape is there is for stability, not that it needs it. I put my clear resin in, takes 48 hours to cure.


Onward to the tank! It needs greenstuff everywhere to fill gaps but, details, electronics, and the structure on the rear is done!

Some side shots.





Magnets, electronic works. The gears on the other side are in pristine condition, too bad you will never see them. I wish I could have kept these gears intact but, room had to be made!

Front overhead view. This thing is becoming more like a land raider but, it's tech-heresy so I'm okay with it. You guys can clearly see how big it is. (I'm running this as a predator infernus.)


Rear engine shots. The rails are not glued or attached, they sit there so the tank doesn't try to emulate the titanic pose as the front hasn't been made yet.




The view of the rear without the fuel tank.


Turret details.


I'm painting up my first son but, in the meantime here was the first failed scheme. It was for Solar but, I need to bring the plate back up with two thin coats and then highlights. The black is where I was using imperial primer over the FW brass. I swapped helmets as that was one I felt worthy of the piece. It is sloppy as my painting session was interrupted, and he's sat ever since. I really don't want to accept this quality though, and the only thing that has kept me from stripping him bare is my friends telling me I can salvage him yet.


Lastly, riveters. What do you think? Don't be fooled by the thicker looking ones, it's static electricity holding them together.


Battle-report in a few days/next update. I will have some finished painting results up soon for once, yay. That's all for now, thanks for following me as always.

Oi ya sneaky Git. It ain't dat imprussuve. Ya one of dem blue fellars whos dakka famus too!

Also, uh... I hate to be a prude but, I'm still waiting on that supply drop/those shoulders for your GMS marines. I can't make them without propa bits ya gits!


(Please don't take that the wrong way lol. I'm scared it got lost in the mail or something.)

I also fixed the electronic wiring picture.

Yes... good idea. Shame me publicly.... that might actually get me off my a$$.

Sorry!

Nah. I was honestly really scared it got destroyed via my mail. I have had some serious mail theft and misplacement going on. I didn't mean to shame you, I meant it in jest. Plus your awesome Admech and Ramos' stellar work would distract me were I in your shoes. I'm not upset, afterall you're the one helping me.

I was surprised you liked the tank. I'm unhappy with it.

Please take these crappy cast results as an apology.

So some items were suited for a 1 piece mould and were really good. IE: The metal hook and cog. The rest needs a two piece. More results and batrep tonight hopefully.

Looks like you're making plumbing parts...

I deserve that haha.

I see the tank has benefitted from the Zinge Bitz. Always good stuff for vehicle projects

This all makes me want to get up and start my terrain so I can actually play on my table. But my death korp and dusk raiders keep getting in the way

@ Shas: Yes! It did. Plus Mach's lights and spotlights. I actually deem the tank a "happy failure." I went based on bits I could find and got this look. Honestly. I should have cut into the LRBT sides and made sherman style tracks. I would have had glorious cogs and gears to show along with tread leftover. However this tank has taught me so much which was its purpose. Ie: How to GS. Make rivets. Make due. Not to overly bling things up, and that a clean hull looks just as good as an armory. Something this tank suffers from. That being said. I can't wait to finish it.

@ Ustrello: Heh. I wish I had a place to work on it all. It sits on a bookshelf. All of it needs sanding down, then sand and rocks. Then a prime coat and then paint to be done. Terrain can be easy though. It is a labor of love. <---- Hypocrite as I need to finish. Still. I love Dkok and Dusk Raiders so keep at it.

Casting has been good with some of my OOP bits. Others require teeny tiny 2 pt moulds. Good news is Blackhand's research is correct. It doesn't require mould release. It would be nice though.

Stealth mecha! clear resin makes it so sneaky looking

Glad the tank was a learning experience, as that will have an impact on future projects!

Practice makes perfect! good start!

Hey so I am copying over some posts to save effort with image capturing but, I painted my first miniature. I hope you all like it and I hope it isn't too crappy. It's technically not done, since it needs the base to be finished and a freehand IF symbol.

I ordered a couple of Epic 40k LRs as a sort of surprise for this blog. After stripping them, all my LRs started in this color (below,) or in a god awful Crimson Fist undercoat that is nigh impenetrable. They all had to be undercoated black, including my entry for Para's comp. (Yes, I swapped entries.)





Pictures from all sides.


The base is next. I'm excited, it is a wonderful SWM plinth. I was going to go for a grey slate tile but, I think I might go for a green glass type tile as seen in Phutarf's cathedral (so I can practice this technique for my marines.)

Next thing I had on the agenda, which I wish was further along was a display board for my Battletech. It's supposed to be a backwater, neglected mining operation and refinery that has mainly been pigeonholed into becoming a storage facility. With the discovery of the mech I cast (when life gives you lemons eh? I had to do something with it,) the facility once more has purpose again. (The exterminator mech is really rare in battletech until the later years due to having a stealth field. Since my cast failed however, it will be primed and painted.)

Forgive the blutac on my sprue supports for my landing pad in advance.

I was going to save it for a surprise but, I chose the altoid building as it opens, so it will have people, furniture, storage etc. The mech and ammo tin are all that are meant for it atm. Rest is storage for this project so I don't lose little parts.

The water/chemical container has been cut slightly. (Clear tube W/black lid.) Just a shelf hanging thing for retailers but, it still counts as a cut. The tin is my intact piece. Like all my other terrain bits, I am following the craggy hill tutorial. This will be the first one that is finished though, hopefully. The cork will be painted up as if it is mars earth.

Here are some pictures. I am honestly super proud of the mining vehicle, though it still needs the hatch done on the back.

You've got some complex stuff going on here Stormwall!

I think your casting is coming along. Keep working on it!

Congrats on getting your tank painted!!!

Hey mate!

Not sure how I could have missed this blog so far but glad I found it..... some sweet work going on over there! That tank is really cool!! Love the little details on and around the turret!

and your LoER comp piece is shaping up nicely! Love the idea of an archaeological dig......

Looking forward to seeing more!

Nice to see the epic scale baby land raiders!

@ Magos: Welcome aboard! I follow your works I think, it's good stuff.

@ Shas: Epic needs love too.

I feel like I owe you guys so time for a mobile update. I'll put more effort in when I get home.

I finished my Epic 40k tank. I forgot yellow took so many coats. I forgot half my recipe. Got it to where it looked semi-great, added my decals. Went to spray clearcoat, managed to stop myself from spraying a can of leadbelcher instead.

Got the actual army painter varnish, sprayed and boom! Fog. I sprayed another coat to remove the fog but the first coat smeared a lot of paint.

Being my first mini I am still proud of it. I have also begun the base. I had made a wire tree and then base coated it black.

I'm not fully happy with it but, it wasn't a failure.

Moving on... it was dark and lightning arched across the skies... I awoke to hear a noise at the door. They came from the rains...

I screamed incoming!!! But, it was too late. They had arrived. reinforcements from Gitsplitta. There is so much here I cannot keep track of it all. Just look for yourself. When I get home again I will do a proper tally. He packed the box so well that even when it was dripping wet from the storm, the models were unharmed.

In return for all of this, Gits is getting something that is armored and scouty (totally not foreshadowing, and it is the least I can do) and three Marines. I will probably do three Star Hunters or maybe two with a Son of Orar to go with.

I am so flattered and honestly humbled. I came close to being forced to move out during my income break due to college break. He would have basically of saved the hobby for me and he has honestly outfitted my entire next 2k point army.

So thank you Gitsplitta! You saved the future of my hobby! Expect Star Marine reinforcements!

Hopefully when I get time, I will fix my blog name throughout the entire thing to shorten it, and add these images to the Dakka gallery.

Hmm. Now if only I could find a walkthrough or original instructions for all of this. Some of the metal pieces and smaller add-ons confuse me.

Ah, classic Whirlwind!

Very nice, good ole stabbin plow.

If I counted right, there should be bits for 5 different Mk-1 vehicles in there. Whirlwind, predators, razorbacks... plus the extra auto-cannon barrels you asked for. Unfortunately I didn't have a spare vindi or i'd have sent that too.

Delighted to share my bounty. Many of those were gifts from other dakkanaughts and I promised myself that I'd either paint them myself or give them to someone who needed them (rather than selling). You aren't the first recipient of such a care package, so don't worry.

Looking forward to the marines for my Inquisitional Support Squads. I'm starting to work on my "modern" MW so I'm sure they'll start seeing the table regularly.

You sent enough, believe me. I just have to figure out how to assemble this stuff. I was born in 94, I missed the best GW had to offer!

Mostly the metal razorback turrets confused me. And I assume I have to finangle rubber bands to attach the sides to rhinos.

I saw the barrels. I added them to my "whatever it is," stormraven (?) scratchbuild. It is looking more like a Fire Raptor each day with my planning.

I did the measurements. The Whirlwind turret ironically enough will work on a Knight Warden chassis. It'd be heavy and all but... my base will be probably heavier. I hope. Everyone thinks it won't work. It probably won't. But, if it does it will be awesome.

Yes. Expect at least three Marines, a surprise, and maybe a libby if you cannot replace the one you lost earlier this year. :(

I'd be delighted to get a libby. I do have plans for a really fancy, professionally converted & painted one for my main character... but the lists I've been running lately require two normal librarians so I could always use another.

The razorback turrets... I think you mean the side sponsons for the Predator? You can see how the old razorback turrets work of you look through the early parts of my Mantis Warrior gallery. The predator sponsons just get glued over the door holes in the sides of the outer hull. I've got one here that I was thinking of painting just for giggles. If you want I can take some more detailed pictures of it so you can see how it works.

I actually mean all of these turrets. Edit... I see it now from the picture, I'm so stupid.

Nah, you'll get the hang of it laddy!

Hey all, long time no update. So today/tomorrow is a big day for me but, I have to make this post so I have an excuse to bug you all about casting. Er... what.

So it twas' time for summer cleaning, and I updated the workshop to celebrate turning 21.


I got a painting chart and framed it, and I framed a piece of art my girlfriend drew as well. (The Sphess Mahreen. It's been my avatar for a while, apparently she saw the original and decided to paint her own version of it.


I got tired of paint pots hogging one of my storage bins, so I took my grandmother's easel she left for me, and made it a paint rack holder. The frame is circa 1950, it was broken and smashed but, I saved enough to wrap the project. I hate drilling and plugging dowels now, just by the way. It's a bit rough, it still needs to have some parts dry, including the wood filler on the parts that were old (my grandmother lived a long time after all,) and this must have been early plywood. It chipped, and chipped, and chipped some more... I think it looks okay though. It certainly works however. From the other side of the family, I restored and repaired and old metal tool box which now stores almost all my supplies and tools. It still needs a good stain as well but, I have some gunstock stain prepped just for this after a good sanding.

I then made this tank by accident. Apparently, the new rhino kits and lovely (as lovely as the old ones, if they are new and not secondhand.) This whirlwind Scorpius practically put itself together. I took parts (courtesy of Gitsplitta,) from the original Whirlwind and added them to this kit. I am most proud of the original whirlwind radar dish, and the wiring connecting those parts, along with Brother Thorald. I am sorta pleased with how my new heat gun bent the styrene tubing to hold in the old school crates as well. Also, if you are wondering about Brother Thorald, he used to be a first company veteran. He took a anti-tank mine placed by Chaos Cultists to his everywhere while on an escort to remove high value imperial personnel, blowing his arm and both his legs off. Thorald, though held in high regard was not selected for a Dreadnought, due to their scarcity in the Star Hunters chapter, and was doomed to die or be given the Emperor's peace. However, due to the extremely cold temperatures, his body survived his injuries due to the sheer cold and freezing point. (Think a world worse than Hoth.) Before you point it out by the by, no, he wouldn't have triggered his Sus-an membrane, as the Star Hunters come from the Imperial Fists line. Regardless, he is still viewed as a valuable marine for the chapter, and he was saved by the Apothecaries and the Techmarines of the chapter. He is apart of the chapter's reserve elements, usually mentoring younger marines and Neophytes, or teaching sparring techniques in the chapter fighting pits, back on Stenheim. However he is occasionally assigned to guarding the Techmarine crew of the Chapter Relic known and originally christened to be named Gjallarhorn. He sometimes goes outside of the vehicle to check on the "status," of the armor, as you can totally see now.











Moving on, I have begun that destroyer from earlier on. It will be a large ship for larger Battletech games. Probably House Davion colors. I need to cut the hull in half, the bottom going to my airship/gravship and the top going on an ocean base. Anyways, on top of it sits two Librarians...



Meet me new Librarian for the Star Hunters. My girlfriend purchased the Lord Executioner model for me during my NYC trip. I absolutely adore this model, however, I wanted it to be unique. I had no room for it in my army... or did I? I removed my old librarian, which will be going to Gitsplitta as an extra to be tacked on to his retinue that I am sending him. (I'm sad he lost his old one.) Since I couldn't fit a Captain into my lists, I did a lot of conversion work. Though I am saving his axe for another project altogether. I am happy with him. I made him out of the original Finecast model, some Forgeworld brass and a tank crew helmet, a Maxmini bionic arm, and a RT bolter (I think.) This is my favorite model to date, probably.





Moving on, the messy spare Librarian that originally started out from broken parts that I repaired over time. He still needs Greenstuff to finish his hood and gap filling. I sanded his larger shoulder, removing the stupid Crux icon. I can smooth it with GS or keep it worn down, depending on Git's preference.





Lastly, I made this sucker. I got bored one night and cranked it out quickly. I needed to create it so I could test fit it on top of a knight at my FLGS, which it does!


First thing is first, getting the mech done, and then my LOER Mars mining base entry done.

You've been super productive.

I believe that is a old 3rd ed. whirlwind top?

 Solar_lion wrote:
You've been super productive.

I believe that is a old 3rd ed. whirlwind top?

I thought it was first but, now that you're right, I do agree with you. Sadly, I was only born in 1994. Regardless, it makes a great Knight ML though.

I could have been more productive but, my painting teacher/pal is going through tough times medically, and I am currently going through doctors and a tailor to get ready for several high end interviews. Hopefully, I may have a small assembly update tonight, the flavor appears to be GMS and Battletech, and Xiphon related.

I do apologize even though I don't have to, mind mind seems to think 1-3rd is one edition, even though it's not.

no worries .. I may not even have it right! Regardless everyone still remembers where they started.

Good luck on your interviews

Hey all, I did a thing again.

After a mixed result from using magnets on the Scorpius' guns, I glued them in place as the rules say it fires directly. The back hatch is now magnetized, though it is hard to open and needs GS where I did some damage.



I then decided my newest army would have a Xiphon. I'm sorry I haven't painted anything, assembling is what I am familiar with I have been sick all month. Waiting on an order of red flock for the firing rockets. I don't know why I used hunter killers to represent the missiles on it, I am aware they are tank based and all but, I wanted to do something seemingly less smooth to break up the smooth shape, as all the fliers in the IOM are blocky generally. I also decided to copy the original Predator turret hatch, as I feel the pilot should have a more 40kish way to get in and out of the vehicle. I eventually noticed the plastic cement was melting the thin styrene, and the guns would never match up symmetrically. So I magnetized them, not wanting to waste Git's work. Those las cannons/autocannon barrels are courtesy of him.







Next are some Marines that need some GS, TLC, and paint. along with some ocean shoreline bases. They are for Gitsplitta in return for the vehicles. Solar, I've not forgotten you. I just need another Marine or two to continue.

Half of the Squad so far.


This marine may be my favorite out of the bunch. I am going to GS his helmet to make it look bit more Nordic and less UM but, I am happy thus far. It's also my first attempt at magnetizing. I have always wanted to make a flail, and honestly I wished to emulate a breaching Marine from FW as well.




Another chapter brother. Incase Gits wants a grav marine.



Lastly, the Veteran Sergeant. He needs a new wrist and some GS on his cloak but, I am happy, especially with his leg. All these marines were made from some old bits I had, mixed in with my new Maxmini and Sternguard bits.



They will be accompanied by this Librarian that I showed earlier. (Who I still haven't GS'd. Waiting on a big roll of it from Australia.)


All this leaves now is their transport.

Lastly, to go with my Knight kit I (caved in to get) er, have ordered on store credit that I have accumulated for a few years. I can't really buy minis atm but, I can call on debts people owe me.

Thanks for placing your order with Forge World. This is to confirm receipt of your order.
Order Number: 1299989
Order Date: 06/06/2015 01:24:50
Product Code: 99590299065
Description: DREAD MAW



I blame Paradigm! I doubt this fether will fit on a Knight base but, dangit, I will try! (He's going to be charging into this guy/punching him in the face.)

Edit: I forgot to include the new color scheme. I am thinking if I use this process on the chart (drybrushing side,) and use a runefang wash each time, it will come out as I want it to. Sorry I don't have more to show atm.

Nice magnetizing the cannon extensions! stuff is looking good there.

Yeah Shas, they were crooked in all the pictures until one broke off and I decided to do that. Now they are straight. This isn't an update but, I forgot to post my 6mm reinforcements for the LOER contest and also my latest mold.

So the regiment of troops is for my LOER contest entry. Except for one of the front two troops and the silver not-warthog. One of those two troops will be a diver exploring an ocean world, a mini diorama inside a modcube basically.

Same thing for the second one, except the unpainted not warthog will be inside a lava world modcube.

The mold is self explanatory. It still has minor hand and now crotch bubbles. I will let you look at it. It may be the jewerly resin I am using, or perhaps I ain't forcing enough in. I found out from Dr.H and others that it needs to be tighter. Hope this is tight enough.

Thanks all for the support. Five pages and only one thing painted. I'm a less cool/creative version of Heliodore lol.

I did pick up a copy of "How to Paint Citadel Miniatures." Hopefully that and some lessons from friends will teach me to paint up some Marines and terrain yet. I have my recipes down finally, I guess it is all about the thickness of the paint now and patience. The latter being my biggest downfall.

So yeah. Slow and steady wins the race. Off to bed for a nap for me, sorry this was a lazy bump. It technically should have been in tonights earlier mini-update.

Wonderful spate of building there...

Good luck with the mold. Love seeing updates, whether building or painting. Everybody gets into this hobby for a reason and it's actually quite rare for us builders to enjoy painting anywhere near as much as we like building.

Right so, mould advice:
First off, I'm not sure about how "top pour" moulds work. I've not looked into it yet, so I don't know if there are any special tricks to get those working.

There are a few things that I can see from your experiments that I can comment on.

Starting with your first, one piece mould:
These kinds of moulds are only useful for objects that will have a (relatively large) flat surface that will be hidden in the final application.

Obviously you may have already realised what works and does not. But anything that has detail or "form" visible from all sides is better cast in a two-part mould. You saw this with the figure, but also the railing would be better off in a two-part mould.

Your first two-part mould for the figure:
You seem to be making the mould by pouring the silicone in to half-enclose the figure, and then pouring the second half. You appear to have not done this for the latest mould, and I would encourage you to use plasticine or a clay to make the first half of the mould as it gives you more control over how the surface meets the item.

On that note, make sure to get the plasticine etc. surface as close to 90deg to the side of the item (perpendicular). This will give you a better seal between the two halves of the mould. This is also important at the edges of the mould (where it meets the mould box).

Latest mould:
As I said, you appear to now be using clay or similar to form the first half of the mould.
Registry keys are good to use also. However, you could do a couple to the other side of the figure. Due to the stretchiness of silicone, leaving a corner without any keys could cause problems.

You now appear to be using channels to fill your mould cavity from the bottom (rather that pouring in through the feet)?
However, the channel placement could be improved.
I'm assuming that you are pouring in through the channel at the top of the images (that goes to the head of the figure). This channel should only join up to the items/cavity at the lowest point (the head in this case). You appear to have a channel from the arm of the figure to the pour channel, this won't help remove bubbles as they can only go into the pouring stream of the mould and may lead to bubbles being introduced back into your cast.
All air escape channels should exit though the top of the mould.

Also, where these channel attach to your figure/cavity could be improved.
You are introducing a liquid into your mould and liquids tend to form a flat upper surface that rises at the same rate across that surface.
For air to escape it needs to leave from the highest points of the cavity. In your case, from the tips of the hands and not the side of the arms. This is why you are having trapped bubbles in the hands.

However, channels are something you can fix in a cured mould. You can cut into the surface of the silicone to create new channels.
If you find bubbles being trapped in any part of a mould, add a channel that runs from that point to the top of the mould. Careful not to cut too deep into the silicone as you don't want a hole in the side of the mould (and potentially your hand that is holding the mould at the time...). They don't need to be thick channels, you are only letting air out.

And lastly, while you need to hold the two halves of your mould together firmly, it needs to be evenly across the whole mould, and shouldn't distort the shape of the mould (as this will distort the shape of the cavity and therefore the shape of your casts). You need to use a sheet of plastic/wood/card that won't bend and will spread the pressure out over the whole mould.

Keep at it. Good luck


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Also, I forgot to mention; While you can get away with not using a mould release agent, I will suggest using unscented talc to coat the surfaces of your moulds in.

This was told to me by Galorn (the Dakkanaught that I went to for casting advice), and it works as a mould release and a flow aid for the resin and it helps to prevent bubbles from sticking to the surface of the mould. It's also good for you moulds to be stored with a coating of talc.

It only needs to be a light coating. Knock off the excess. I actually use a brush to spread it about.

And make sure to get unscented. The perfumes used may interfere with the resin curing and may damage the silicone.

Good looking squad!

I'm actually amped to see the knight throwing down with that monstorous forgeworld worm, definately watching this thread now

Keen to see this knight choking the worm.

*cue porno music for Nerdy*

Very creative build there.Be careful or you 'll never get to painting!

Kick that worm in the teeth, teeth, teeth, teeth

Bow-Chika wow wow......

@Warboss_Waaazag: Yes. I hate painting, not because it isn't fun or relaxing. I just suck at it, and I find it to be very time consuming. Once I learn consistency and get less afraid of painting my more expensive models, I think I will enjoy it a lot more.

@ Dr.H. Wow! That was more advice than I thought I would get and it kinda re-affirms my suspicions. The problem is, is that while I've done my research the buddy I am doing this for hasn't. That combined with being very hovering over the project has sorta ruined it for me.

That being said, I have started cutting channels. I cut one to the crotch, I have to figure out how to get one to each hand. The issue I've had is that I wanted to fill this miniature from the head since the start, not the base. Furthermore, I feel like the channel placement could have been 100% better.

I also see you noticed the missing keyholes. I can't believe I forgot those. I also feel as if the clay fought me badly this go around. There are so many ways that I could do this better, I learn a lot each time. I absolutely hate this clear jewelry resin, I need to make a post up somewhere on these forums to find a better, less toxic clear resin. This one burns the hands pretty badly and... it's just noxious really. I have no way to describe it. It's as if the room heats up uncomfortably when I mix it. I hope to find a professional resin that is clear for this in the future but, these were just fledgling steps towards getting better.

It's also great for one sided pieces as you noticed. Lastly, as far as air escaping goes, I have used the three shafts. The issue is that the hands act as the top of a cavern that was filled with water or already underwater. Any air that is there gets trapped. You can see this as it either goes up the central shaft to where the base is, or to the left release, or gets trapped in the hands as I said. The right channel is technically useless except for unnecessary pressure, that came with it. I so I understand. I thought it would relieve the issue, instead it compounded it.

What do you think of using the head as the point for all the air to rise to, as it would save the hands? Or would air get trapped in the sloped shoulder?

Also, I apologize if that makes no sense. I'm not the sharpest lightbulb in the box. (<--Intentional.)

@EyeamRei: Thanks! I just hope Gits likes them when they are done. I have to do some Greenstuffing and some painting to make them more Nordic. (Nordy?)

@Drogga: I can't wait either, the only issue will be the basing either coming together or not. It's going to happen regardless though.

@erdfest09: Maybe he shouldn't have a powerfist then...

@Solar_Lion: It's too late, I have so much plastic that I will never paint it all already. I always laughed at people posting about that, thinking I would never have that issue.

What have I become? No, don't answer that.

@Shas, Gits, & Nerd: I'm not sure what is scarier, that you smut-monkies have invaded, or that my plog reads like one of yours now? I guess I'm flattered.

Edit: I didn't ignore your comments, I just felt like I should have replied when I had an update in hand. I however have been focusing on my health, and by accident have found myself sleeping in the day and waking at night. I want to be in the next Para comp but, the worm won't arrive in time. (Took FW five days before they shipped it, and my GF will be state side for another vacation this month and next.)

I feel like I owed you guys the explanation. I've also been working out or trying to, to rebuild my thighs after the hip surgery. Going from the coastal weather by the sea back to working out in the mountains makes me feel like I have asthma when I run. I also went to a dermatologist this week, and today I have the big one, I hope to get cleared for the service again by a private doctor. I'm so motivated. (I hope this was worth sacrificing all my potential disability for.) Feel free to tell me if this is TMI.

So yeah, your support flatters me as always. I have a week or two I think to finish my LOTR entry piece. I hope they extend it but, hold off on the extension announcement, that way I rush like mad and not procrastinate.

Besides, Graven is going to win.

Look, you get to poke in on our plogs, we pop in on yours, the rivet-mania spreads. Live with it!

Your keeping it interesting, so blog what you like!

 shasolenzabi wrote:
Look, you get to poke in on our plogs, we pop in on yours, the rivet-mania spreads. Live with it!

Woah there. Who said it was only poking?

It bad enough you suggested a leather punch you rivet bound cultists. (I originally wrote freak but, it is definately a cult.)

Do you know how maddening it is to make 1000 rivets by hand- oh wait. You do.

Never mind, I will just learn to live and appreciate this newly found medical condition.

In other news, I expect a drop in hobby money in the near future. Women and moving out are both expensive.

Oh feth it. I'm just posting because the wait for this Shai Hulud is killing me/at the Doctor's in the waiting room. P.S: Did you know there was a Dune movie? I didn't! (I hope it is good. Just finished the book.)

Dune the movie, it has some big stars in it. You must judge the movie itself.

1,000 rivets? thou hast made it to the League initiate level! You may leave the supplicant robes for the next new folks, and may adorn the Initiate's riveted robe and belt!

 Stormwall wrote:
@ Dr.H. Wow! That was more advice than I thought I would get and it kinda re-affirms my suspicions. The problem is, is that while I've done my research the buddy I am doing this for hasn't. That combined with being very hovering over the project has sorta ruined it for me.

Yeah I tend to get carried away when I start explaining something.
I'm afraid I can't help with the back-seat caster. Good luck.

That being said, I have started cutting channels. I cut one to the crotch, I have to figure out how to get one to each hand. The issue I've had is that I wanted to fill this miniature from the head since the start, not the base. Furthermore, I feel like the channel placement could have been 100% better.

I'm sure I've read it somewhere that it's best to have the feet end of a model at the top/exit of a mould. I think it's part to do with having as large a hole to pour into as possible, and that the rough finish you get where the resin levels off at the opening (if it's not quite flat/level and bubbles will accumulate there) is easily removed or hidden by being on the bottom of the feet etc.

I also see you noticed the missing keyholes. I can't believe I forgot those. I also feel as if the clay fought me badly this go around. There are so many ways that I could do this better, I learn a lot each time.

I've forgotten to add keys to the first half of moulds before and then had to cut into that first half to make the keys when I poured the second half. It's so easily done that I made myself a check list for moulding and follow that step-by-step each time.

Learning by doing is the best learning.

I absolutely hate this clear jewelry resin, I need to make a post up somewhere on these forums to find a better, less toxic clear resin. This one burns the hands pretty badly and... it's just noxious really. I have no way to describe it. It's as if the room heats up uncomfortably when I mix it. I hope to find a professional resin that is clear for this in the future but, these were just fledgling steps towards getting better.

I don't really have any experience with other resins than what I've used, so I'm no help with what would be good. Just have a look about and see what's available.

I use nitrile gloves when I'm using the resin I have. Mainly because casting is a messy business and it was drying out my skin (not to mention having to pick pieces of plastic out of the various crevices of my hands not being fun). I'm a trained chemistry researcher and even I make a mess when casting.

Make sure you have plenty of ventilation going on if your resin is quite fume-y.

It's also great for one sided pieces as you noticed. Lastly, as far as air escaping goes, I have used the three shafts. The issue is that the hands act as the top of a cavern that was filled with water or already underwater. Any air that is there gets trapped. You can see this as it either goes up the central shaft to where the base is, or to the left release, or gets trapped in the hands as I said. The right channel is technically useless except for unnecessary pressure, that came with it. I so I understand. I thought it would relieve the issue, instead it compounded it.

What do you think of using the head as the point for all the air to rise to, as it would save the hands? Or would air get trapped in the sloped shoulder?

Also, I apologize if that makes no sense. I'm not the sharpest lightbulb in the box. (<--Intentional.)

What I would do with the mould you have there is just cut a channel from the top of the hand upwards and either join it to the leg (higher up than the hand comes to), or all the way to the top of the mould. As you put it, make a hole in the top of the cavern so that the air can escape and the "water" can rise all the way to the top.

I would keep the model head down and let the air escape from the feet.

Also, to save on silicone usage, you can cut up an "old" mould into tiny pieces and add that to the new silicone you are mixing for the new mould. Silicone sticks to nothing... except silicone. It'll bulk up the volume and make your silicone go further.
Be aware though, that doing this is time consuming, will blunt whatever blade you use for it, and will end up with many tiny pieces of silicone all over your house.

 shasolenzabi wrote:
Dune the movie, it has some big stars in it. You must judge the movie itself.

1,000 rivets? thou hast made it to the League initiate level! You may leave the supplicant robes for the next new folks, and may adorn the Initiate's riveted robe and belt!

Lol. I will post a picture later of the rivet jar.

And Dr.H. Thank you more for your input. I will try that silicone cutting trick for sure soon.

Not much is going on I admit, lately I have just been playing with my worm. Just a small update to blow the dust off before I go on a hiatus with the woman. Waiting on the funds to get the Knight Titan (gotta sink this CH base into the normal knight titan base sink Secret Weapon doesn't make a blank one yet, grumble.) The Librarian is for scale. I felt he wasn't tall enough for a Knight so I improvised and added height that I will just cover in a giant splash, as if he is bursting the water.





Moving on, this is a little helicopter (jhawk,) from my battleship kit. It kept breaking and a part went down the airvent, so it is now being repaired by the 6mm ground crew and unloaded by the security forces. It was the last thing I got to working on with the LOER entry, sadly.




Oh and rivets. I feel as if I have made thousands but, there are probably only 900 or so in there, coupled with all the pellets I have harvested... I just punch away at it when commercials or loading screens pop up, eventually I will fill a mason jar full of them and never worry about it again.


Wish I had more but, I've been feeling burnt out on my entry. It has a nice martian theme to it but, I've not been feeling it lately as far as building up the hills on it. I hate constantly entering contests and then not finishing it due to the fact I'm slow as hell.

All this being said though, it does spur me to create good terrain that I will eventually finish and display in a glass cabinet.

Hope you all have a good Fourth of July, as I am unsure if I will be posting before then.

Edit: I found this on the B&C. Anyone know where to buy it?

Nice paint! Bad-assery in that Marine vs worm diorama!

Lovely rivets! in the "Nations States" the currency of the Khadrovian Union is the "Rivet"

That's pretty neat actually. I will have to learn more about that.

Also, the Libby unfortunately has to stand watch till re-enforcements arrive. Brother Castamere was reassigned to a small diorama I haven't shown yet. :p

Now with the vacation lull the waiting on (more funds,) the Cube, Karists, and the Titanforge Marines begins.

I swore to never be a kickstarter guy either lol!

Hey guys, I've removed the pictures of the recast of the mech. While it was supposed to be a one off for a friend and for practice, I feel it is wrong since the official company is releasing an actual version of this in the future now. (They did one years ago, and said for you to try your own hand at making it. Now with an official model on the way, it feels morally wrong.)

With them releasing an official version I am going to stop making them completely, and the few I did will go to a friend of mine, and in the future I am just focus on casting my own stuff. (Thinking of making some miniatures out of greenstuff and some custom helmets/bits for my Marines.)

This blog has been such a lovely past-time. I have a decent sized force thanks to Gits and what I own. I have decided to rekindle my efforts, and I am considering condensing all my stuff into one big blog (with a witty title no less.) Also, I would really like to focus on terrain/dioramas and scratch building in the future, hence the need for a change. I feel like this blog is a mess for some reason.

What are your thoughts? (Also, I have been working on a lot of stuff recently but, I am about to move into my first house, so that has gotten in the way. I hope to have some new stuff done soon. I have two little projects to finish, then I want to get all my marine swaps done. Solar PM what you want, I think you were interested in the new scheme. Gits, I have been working on your request too.)

Anyways, only the best to you all and I hope you have a nice weekend.

Would be good to see more of you bud.

About all I do these days is model exactly that. Terrain, dios, and a few pieces for friends, enjoy it so much more than worrying about army rules that change every 2 minutes.

Would be interesting to see you casting up your own stuff too, again something I enjoy.

Well I can put up some progress pictures of all my work, if you're interested.

It's not as far along as I would like, as I have hobby ADD. I am currently making a weird land-tank surprise for someone, working on a gunship that is the in-between of a Stormraven and Thunderhawk. (Going nuts on deciding if I am going to pull an STC and fill the inside with card too like he is doing with his Stormbird,) and I have also renovated my TFC build.

I also have some little dioramas scattered about and I got a rhino cut off the sprue and assembled this weekend.

Simply put, YES, these are all exactly what we want to see.

Hey guys, not dead yet. Just been working 60-72hr weeks, and I just moved to a new house. I feel bad for lack of tangible results after two to three years (though breaking my hip and having surgery really, really sidelined me for a year and a half.)

A lot has happened to me personally with the service (I tried to get back in, been fighting to do it for nearly two years, long story,) but I am probably just going to end up just moving to Sweden this year/next.

I have had a lot of goodies (kickstarters and other things I've teased about for a bit, I REALLY want to tell you but I figure a picture of the boxes together will look better,) come in the mail, and after my workshop is set up I will take some nice teaser pictures. I'm currently discussing with other DCMs how to make this blog better and what to rename it, and I should have some Sons of Orar (at least a test figure completely done,) on Tuesday but, don't take my word for it as I work swing shift now.

Definitely will have some Star Hunters done in January, the missus wants me to quote "buy a kit and bring it so we can paint when you come to Stockholm."

In the meantime, I'm going to work on the OP a bit each day, revising it and cleaning up this blog.

Truthfully? I'm going to try to paint all my Sons of Orar in the old school 90s paint scheme, (goblin green bases, hazard stripes, fake colored Aquilas, white checkering, the old school highlights, etc,) so if you have any advice beforehand, please tell me!

Especially if you have advice on white checkering over red. Oh? Right now? I'm just working on the BaC Contemptor, I'll post a WIP soon as he is done work wise with greenstuff and cutting, though he will be painted later, once I get my teals and yellow weaponry down.

And speaking of painting later, I'm kinda tired of it. I have 9k views and not a single thing finished, so my goal is to get a fully painted tactical squad and HQ done before January 2016 ends.

Also, should I move overseas what should I do about my masses of hobby stuff? Freight it over with some of my furniture?

Well checkers i always go darker over light. So white then red.

Freight it with the furniture. When you box it up you will be suprised how small it gets. Plus its fun unpacking.

Bst of luck with IRL stuff.

Looking forward to what ever you work on.

Yep... same here.

Hey all, got a rhino almost painted up since we last spoke. Really pleased with it, just needs some touch up. As of today, I just made the president's list for my college and had a couple of unfortunate funerals back to back. That being said, I hope to sneak one or two fully painted pieces before my flight in seven days. Those being the MM contest and my rhino. Besides the real life bits, I had been putting off an update as I was trying to get some concept art made for my DIY chapter and the Sons of Orar. Sadly, that didn't play out.

In the meantime, after clocking about 85 hours I made a gunship and then rendered it. I'll be printing it tomorrow. It's 20 inches long, and the turbines are five inches across alone.

First the CAD screenshots of how it looks, I tried to combine everything I love from 30 different styles of planes, ships, and concepts.I also wanted it to be able to be used for my Karists and as a counts-as Stormbird. I'm so tired of seeing it at this point. It still lacks the detail of retail, not to rhyme or be punny.









Next on to some renders, in what I imagine would have been early crusade era guard colors. Sorry they aren't too good, I don't own the full version of Keyshot sadly.








Hope you liked it, I'll be printing some hull sections tomorrow. I hope it turns out good, I hope to manufacture several. Thanks for reading gents, I hope you are having a good summer and we so far.

Also, now that I am actually finishing models to some degree, I will probably make a new plog or clean this one up with a plasma obliterator. Not sure yet, as I said before.

OK that came out of the blue, it looks stunning bud.

Yeah... that's really impressive. Looking forward to the print.

It's been a while, sorry for going radio silent. I can't believe it's been nearly two years or more. Sorry for that, it won't happen again. I guess some updates are in order now that I'm unpacking my models.

I guess the last time I posted I had just done my house warming for my first house and then life caught up to me cause of the factory shifts. There was no time for the hobby back then, let alone anything more than eating and sleeping after work. About half a year after that, I got a job with the USPS and worked there for a year, saving up the money I needed to moved overseas to be with the missus in Sweden. I've just graduated from my college and I'm about to have my second degree as well. I've been in Stockholm for almost eight months now, I'm getting a job now that I've graduated and learning the new language. I may end up starting a side business too - so it's not that I forgot about Dakka, I just had to get my affairs in order. I'll be posting regularly again now. I am really enjoying the new models and third party companies, Primaris Marines look so tempting because of shiny model syndrome but, I have so much to work on already, I am trying to hold back. I've started the dreaded painting pile too, as many of you have your own I hope you can relate.

It seems GW has had a renaissance. I can't wait to catch up on everyone else's plogs.

I've been working on Marines for Gits and making terrain to display my three SM armies. I'm gonna try to finish up a lot of this unfinished pile/shelf as quick as I can.

In this order, I suppose:
1. Work on terrain to display models.
2. Work on Rhinos Gits sent and those Marines I owe him.
3. Work on Imperial Guard I was sent by Buttery, I think in the DCM christmas? It's been too long, I'll go back and find out.
4. Greenstuff the massive greenstuff backlog. It's crazy long, let's put it that way. Probably 20-25 miniatures.
5. Clean this mess of a Plog up.

So yeah, that's everything.

I can unveil this now though. I scrimped and saved and got this beauty done up for my Star Hunter DIY chapter.



This is one of those Star Hunter Marines I've mentioned previously, he's waiting on a pick up from a Stormraven before a major storm rolls in.

In addition, I did get some paint on a model - though it's not 40k related sadly. It's a Dart, from Battletech. I play Crucis March Militia. Or rather model it, I guess.








I'm really pleased with this one - I consider it fully finished, and I did a lot better on it than most of my miniatures. I've found out I can fix my shaky hands by bracing them on a table, my good friend taught me that. I feel it really helps with nailing the line on the model.

Wonderful to see you back in action Stormwall. Getting your life in order takes precedence over anything associated with gaming, no worries there. Sounds like things are going great for you, congratulations!

Love that painting... just love it.

Thanks, I will try to find the high resolution version. You can zoom into the eye lenses with that version, the artist did an amazing job. I got this commission to spruce up the plog plus it helps describe to people the shade of blue I want and the beautiful green Phutarf does. I got tired of describing the color pallete, lol.

Thank you by the way, that means a lot. I haven't popped into your threads yet, how are the Mantis Warriors coming along?

Actually I've been completely diverted by a micro-skirmish game out of the UK called Bushido. I'll get back to 40k stuff eventually but at the moment I'm being pretty well entertained by fantasy feudal Japanese stuff. Have a YouTube channel now though too.