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Post by: Inso
I have been slowly gathering together a bunch of original plastic Squats. I now have about 120 of them so I have drawn a line under gathering them together and have now started to put one or two together.
This is where things went wrong.
I tried gluing on the arms that come with the Squats and I really didn't like them. I also didn't like the shoulder mounted heavy bolter because it sits so high on the shoulder... So I had a look around and thought about things and the obvious answer was to sculpt my own arms. It will take a while but I will be able to pose and position the weapons better. Speaking of weapons, I have decided to go with the original lasguns but have shortened the barrels by about 3-4mm and they actually look much better. I haven'started sculpting the arms yet, but I have assembled the first ten heads on bodies and have drilled and fitted wire for the arms. I have also given all of the plastic heads a bit of a makeover... here's the first WIP (I have pinned a shortened lasgun in place so you can see the size of it):
I will be building two standard platoons with mostly helmets on (command squad of five with two squads of ten troops). The non-helmetted heads will be wearing berets instead of the cap/nothing... that way, they will be able to salute their officers.
In addition I thought that a few characters would be in order, so here's Mad Jack and his throwing Mastiff:
I haven't thought too much about vehicles or equipment yet because I just want to get some troops finished first.
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Post by: SBG
I'd be happy to play against those awesome models. nice greenstuff work, what colours are you thinking of using?
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Post by: Inso
Cheers
I want to use realistic, military colours (greens and browns with black/grey in the mix) but haven't decided on a scheme yet... I want to get a few built and converted fully before I start thinking about a scheme
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Post by: Doombiscuit
This is so exciting! Can't wait to see more!
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Post by: Veteran Sergeant
I love OG Squats. I have a small collection of unassembled plastics too that are waiting for when I have the motivation to do them right.
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Post by: ArbitorIan
They actually look vey good with those bare catachan arms - maybe easier than sculpting everything??
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Post by: adamsouza
This project has the potential for greatness !!
I love what you done.
Based on the Las guns, I take it you intend on fielding them as counts as AM ?
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Post by: Inso
I am building them as an Imperial Guard army but they are just for show (so I can be a little bit flexible).
I have around 120 of them and they will be split up into 3 platoons of 25. I want to try and keep the ones with helmets together and the others together as well (they'll all get berets).
The heavy weapon teams will be getting tracked weaponry... possibly these:
... but most likely, these:
http://www.anvilindustry.co.uk/AFTERLIFE/Republic-Taurus-Gun-Tractors
I haven't worked out what vehicles or special weapons they will get yet... but I have plenty of time to figure that out while I build the army .
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Post by: Maxim C. Gatling
The greenstuff work is fantastic. I love the berets and how you "fixed" their beards.
I also think the Catachan arms look way better than the original arms. I wish I could have used them for my old school IG, but they just didn't work. Automatically Appended Next Post:
By my calculations, that's about $600 worth of squats!
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Post by: Warboss_Waaazag
Nice! I've never seen squats before.
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Post by: Inso
Cheers .
I certainly didn't spend $600 for them... I have been very lucky and used a lot of paint-stripper on auctions won .
The Catachan arms work well... but I want clothed arms so I'll be sculpting them (it's easier).
You'd never heard of squats? I'm not surprised because GW try to deny all knowledge of them
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Post by: lliu
Ooh! Are you fielding them as imperial guard?
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Post by: Inso
They'll be counts as Imperial Guard... but I don't game so there can be a little bit of flexibility
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Post by: Inso
Following on from yesterday, I have some update pix. Here is what I have so far:
You will notice that I have coated some of the 'wire arms' with a first layer of green stuff ready for the proper sculpting to go on top. They are obviously still WIP but this pic shows what the guns look like and how I am arming my Sgts as well. The two sgts with berets will not be used for the helmeted platoons so they are being saved for a platoon that has berets instead. Here's a pic of my Squat making mat:
You'll notice the weapons for the troops, that are either getting lengthened (plasma pistols into plasma guns) or have been shortened (lasguns) plus a couple of Cadian flamers. There are no weapons for two of the troopers as they will be controlling the heavy weapon units.
I think this project is going to take a while ...
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Post by: Azazelx
Proper Old-School. Fantastic work!
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Post by: Inso
Thanks
Here's the next update... I'm now up to 26 WIP squats with 2 actually finished:
there is all sorts going on with these:
The helmet wearing troops are a single 25 Squat platoon (the 3 with berets will be in the next one)
The specialists have been given armoured arms because their weapons get hot
The command squad will have a lieutenant, medic, flamer and two close combat troopers
The lieutenant has a power weapon made from a flamer, sprue and a Mantic hammer
The Squats in 1 and 2 squad, with no weapons will have control of the heavy weapon platform
For more information, pop along to Inso's World for the update:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2014/08/the-big-week.html
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Post by: Brother SRM
This is a great start to an army! Really looking forward to seeing some paint on them.
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Post by: SJM
Yes, this is going to be awesome!
Looking forward to more!!
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Post by: Knockagh
Superb! Definitely this project deserves a loud, BRAVO!!! Your doing a great job, the arms and green stuff work is wonderful. Looking forward to keeping tabs on this one.
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Post by: Fifty
Are you likely to add some bikers?
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Post by: Inso
I've been thinking about what to do about bikers and the likelyhood is that I will probably go for hover-bikes... possibly a bit like these ones I made a long time ago... but a bit more updated:
I was never a fan of the 'hogs' and think that hovercraft bikes would work quite well... but it isn't an idea I am set on just yet as I need to get some troops finished first so I have plenty of time to properly decide.
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Post by: Fifty
Hah, no worries. I was wondering as I have ten bikers I am going to offer up for sale or trade soon in the Swap Shop.
Your whole force is awesome. I love Squats, but have to many other army projects already that have barely started, so want to get rid of my bikers.
Wish I had your sculpting skills.
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Post by: Inso
Thanks for the thought .
It's a shame you are relinquishing command of your Squats though :( ... On the plus side... you should get a pretty penny for them so you will be able to swell the ranks of your existing projects
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Post by: Inso
I've only managed a small amount of progress this week... just the turbine on the bike:
The two robots are explained on my blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/get-motor-running-head-out-on-highway.html
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Post by: adamsouza
loving the squat bots
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Post by: Kelly502
You really revamped the Squats, I wasn't a fan in Rogue Trader the tri-wheeled bikes and general oddness of the figures made them look like little short fat bikers. I really like where you're going with this! The bots are great!
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Post by: Inso
Thank you .
I felt that the old Squat bikes were a joke so wanted something new. Hopefully, at some point, I will be able to find larger hovercraft for the transports too.
I want to make these Squats more... realistic (I think that's what I mean).
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Post by: Inso
I have finished the second servitor and one of the beret wearing Squats. I've also started sculpting an Engineseer.
All this and more can be seen at my blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2014/09/space-dwarfs-robots-and-award-dinners.html
Feel free to pop along and browse
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Post by: Inso
More stuff on my blog today... including Squat Engineseer and hover bike: http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/its-little-things-in-life.html
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Post by: daddyorchips
yes mate! blown away! more of this sort of thing
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Post by: Inso
Scale pic of the new five-eights but also a bit of progress on the Engineseer again:
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Post by: Inso
I've started to add some details to the arms... I am going for a 'metal-muscle' look to them (a bit like Colossus out of the X men). I've also started to tidy up the next little addition...
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Post by: Inso
This week, I have used a bit of extra free time to work on the Engineseer. He only needs his head and back-pack sorting and he will be done. I have also added some arms to 'Big Robot' but they are only loose as I will need to remove them to work on the body areas:
As usual, there is more about the Engineseer and other things over at Inso's World (including a rather cool little quad bike that is perfect for 28mm use):
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2014/10/another-tick-on-list-of-life.html
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Post by: Inso
I reckon the Engineseer is finished:
I'll probably wait until Big Robot is finished before I put up a 'group hug' .
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Post by: Inso
I've managed to finish a couple of troopers (Flamer and Medic) from the command squad:
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Post by: adamsouza
They look great.
Honestly, If I had your level of sculpting ability I would skip the GW bits and just sculpt evertyhing from scratch.
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Post by: Inso
It is a tempting thought (and thank you for the kudos ) but in order to build a whole army, it would take much longer.
I would either have to sculpt every one of them completely or sculpt components and get them cast up... that would add huge amounts of time and cost to the project (bearing in mind that I already have 120+ plastic Squats to mess around with).
It took me four or five years to finish another army that was just filling gaps during headswaps .
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Post by: Inso
I am still ticking along with these... but have had a few distractions. Here's something for the Engineseer:
There's a little bit more info on my blog (including the distraction):
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2014/11/a-week-of-nice-distractions.html
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Post by: ckig
Beautiful sculpting skills man!
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Post by: Inso
A Bit of an update... Command:
Infantry Squad 1:
Infantry Squad 2:
Complete Platoon:
I still need to add the heavy weapons tractors (little tracked heavy weapons from Anvil Industries), a couple of back-packs for the loaders and a couple of Comms sets for the radio operators but they are done apart from that
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Post by: adamsouza
They look great.
I still can't get over you sculpting all of those arms.
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Post by: TheGiantPeanut
Amazing stuff, bonkers scultping all those arms! What tubing is that for the heavy weapons flamer dude?
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Post by: r_squared
You've done an ace job with these Squats. I found their plastic very off putting back in the day, combined with their lack-lustre stats and crappy overall feel, and lack of any real direction they were for hard core "space dwarf" fans only back then.
If GW put something like this out now, then I would actually consider starting up an army.
Not sure about the hovercraft though.
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Post by: Floyd73
These are so awesome and so much fun! Your sculpting work is fantastic.
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Post by: Inso
Cheers all
The hovercraft may or may not stay... it all depends on how I feel (although I am going to have hovercraft in the army... I haven't decided fully how to go about it).
The tube on the flamer is copper wire with a scoubie string over it
This army will not be the same as the old Squats... it will be more Imperial Guard and more serious looking.
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Post by: Inso
In a couple of weeks I will be back at home again and will be starting on the next platoon.
I reckon that the next ones will all have berets (converted plastic bare heads/hat heads from the boxed set) because I am possibly a bit light on the helmeted heads for a full platoon and may need to get more (or try to cast some up).
Once that is done, I will look at finishing off an army command unit (with the Engineseer, a commander and a group of other specialists... maybe even a Tau or a Jokaero or two).
I would also like to add a couple of Psykers but I am not set on having Squat psykers (living ancestors) so I may go for Tau Etherials or something a little more exotic (Eldar?).
...any ideas are welcomed
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Post by: Inso
Well... I've finished the infantry squads properly now:
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Post by: adamsouza
I love those heavy weapons platforms. Are they custom ?
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Post by: Stormwall
What is this purple mini, third from the left? Also, thank you for the fine vintage liqour, er, models. Original Squats are so rare now sadly. Your GS skills do them justice.
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Post by: Calibanite Lion
Infantry squads look great, I love these old squats. The enginseer sculpt turned out really nice, jcb arm is a great touch. Look forward to seeing some paint on these soon?
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Post by: Inso
The first of the finished Exo-Armour:
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Post by: lliu
Ooooh! Very unique!
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Post by: Inso
Thank you
Here is the finished unit:
... more basic troops will be on the way soon
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Post by: Inso
OK... while the beards are drying on the first infantry squad for the second Squat platoon... here's a 'pre-converted' Sentinel:
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Post by: Bottle
It's all looking great, but I'm really looking forward to seeing some paint on these guys!
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Post by: doktor_g
These are absolutely fantastic dude. Are they counts as SM then?
So Jealous.
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Post by: Matthew
Just looking through the first pictures, they're really cute! Why did GW stop making 'em?
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Post by: Inso
I guess they'd be a mix of Imperial Guard and Spacemarines.
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Post by: Floyd73
Im floored by this project. The work is simply stunning....and they're not even painted yet!
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Post by: Inso
I am a very fickle character... I have really strong muses and I have to stick with them or nothing gets done. At the moment, my muse is telling me to sculpt/convert and that is what I have to do.
When my sculpting muse wears off, I will start putting paint on them. When that will be, is anyone's guess but while I'm on a roll, I daren't stop.
I have ideas abount how I'm going to paint them and am putting these ideas on to paper so I don't forget them... but that is all I am up to at the moment.
And trust me... I want to see these painted as much as you do !
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Post by: Inso
This week has mostly been about travelling but I have managed to get a bit further with the Sentinel Sqn:
I have also ordered a third so that when it arrives, I can get it upto the same standard as these two. Once I've done that, I'll be finishing all three heads together so that I can get them all similar.
I have also been working on the troop squad but am putting together a little guide with them so I won't be posting any pics. Needless to say, they all have neckerchiefs, beards with moustaches and wire pinned into their shoulder sockets, ready for the next stage. I will be converting the weapons next, ready to pin to the bodies so that the 'wire arms' can be bent to shape ready for the putty to be added.
With all that in mind... my thoughts turn to what's next.
I have got planned (so far):
1x Commander (Exo armour)
with command section (5x Exo armour)
Exo Armour squad (5x Exo armour)
Dreadnought
2x Infantry platoon (each with command and 2 squads)
1x Veteran platoon (with command and 2 squads)
1x Sentinel Sqn (3x Sentinel)
That's about it for now... so what's next after that? I have had Wyverns suggested as a support weapon and Chimeras... Hmmm....
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Post by: Inso
I am far too tired and clumsy at the moment to be converting lasguns so I thought I'd make a start on the dreadnought (Sentinel and Squat for size comparison):
Obviously, the conversion is at an early stage but the original kit is from here:
http://www.clockworkgoblinminis.co.uk/ourshop/prod_3246483-US-Grizzly-Medium-Walker-28mm.html
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Post by: Inso
I am really quite pleased how these are turning out. I have managed to get a hint of ' AT Votoms' in there... anyway, here are the almost finished Sentinels:
I only have minimal tidying to do and they are finished .
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Post by: Inso
So... what's next in the army? I completely forgot about a commander... so I threw one together :
And for finished pix of the Sentinels, Exo Commander and an overall army pic... you could visit here (if you wanted ):
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/the-sabatical-is-nearly-over.html
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Post by: AegisGrimm
Wow, you finally sold me on the Warpath exo-armor models!
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Post by: lliu
Wow! Very Nice!
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Post by: Inso
Thank you both
The Forge Guard are lovely little models and they are nice and easy to chop up for conversions too
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Post by: Inso
The next platoon is starting to come together:
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Post by: Inso
I managed to get a look at the Codex Astra Militarum this week (what used to be the Imperial Guard) and discovered that the command squad troopers couldn't have bolt pistols... so I had to replace them with las pistols:
I have also updated the blog with much more information (including progress pic of the second platoon) so it may be worth a look:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/05/reflection-adaptation-and-focus.html
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Post by: Accolade
This is one of my favorite 40k blogs, Inso. I am a huge fan of your work turning these old squat plastics into something really incredible!
I see you're running these guys as IG, would the new Adeptus Mechanicus books be more to the style of this army? I know I'd love seeing those robots actually be able to effectively punch things!
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Post by: Inso
Thanks for the cudos
I see what you mean about the Sentinels... but the basic troops are through and through Astra Militarum and I like the 'underdog' nature of the basic troops. Add to that, I have access to the Astra Militarum Codex and not the Mechanicus ones... and it makes the AM list more appealing.
It is a shame that the sentinel close combat weapon from Codex Catachan was not carried forward but I guess 'them's the breaks'
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Post by: WaaaaghLord
This is too badass, I love it. Good job man.
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Post by: Inso
Cheers
Work continues... I have been busy getting the platoon up to a standard level... so now they all have a layer of putty on their arms, ready for the sculpting to begin:
... and for a change of pace, I have started work on a Gun Servitor for my Engineseer (this is the first of 2):
I still have lots to do but it's a start
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Post by: Inso
He's finished now:
I've started on the next one but I haven't got very far with it yet... theres info on Inso's World (amongst other things):
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/a-nice-cuppa.html
I've also began thinking about how I could include Psykers in the army without using Squats and I was given a good idea by a guy on Facebook... use beastmen. Obviously, I don't have any beast men because I don't collect fantasy... but I have some Tau plastics and some green stuff so I may end up putting together a few Primaris Psykers in the form of converted beastmen. I think it is really appropriate because they are another part of the Rogue Trader days that have been washed aside. Then of course... there are weirdvane psykers... but I'm not so sure I want any of those yet.
So many things to think about .
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Post by: ArbitorIan
To be fair, Squats DID have psykers - Ancestor Lords were squats who got so old they became living conduits to the 'power of the Ancestors' etc etc.
Really old wizened geriatric Squat sculpting to come??
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Post by: AegisGrimm
Was just about to suggest the bit about Living Ancestors!
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Post by: Inso
I personally don't like the idea of Squat Psykers (it was one of the things I never liked... that and the ridiculous looking bikes) so it is a choice to have something different... there will be no living ancestors in my army.
Beastmen have Shaman and would look cool as a 'rogue trader' addition to the force.
They may, however, be a little shorter than expected
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Post by: darkcloak
Bow down before this master!
These are so freaking awesome and I'm only on page one! Keep it coming man, you're doing really awesome.
:seriousGWface: But I don't think anyone would want to buy or play them. Herpaderp!
Seriously though, there was no interest in these dudes? How? They look so cool. I would love to build and play these guys. I haven't ever actually seen a proper Squat (heehee) so this is pretty neat! Automatically Appended Next Post:
Are you kidding me?
I quit!
This is soooo cool!
It's just mind blowing...
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Post by: Inso
Cheers
Stay tuned... there will be more soon
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Post by: Inso
So... today we have a complete Engineseer unit:
And I am currently working on a Beastman Primaris Psyker with a hint of Jedi about him. There is a small update on the blog too (a new magazine to read? Maybe):
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/06/oooo-something-new.html
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Post by: jonny5
Superb some of the nicest models I've seen for ages
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Post by: Inso
Thanks
Hopefully, I can keep the momentum going. I am really getting on quite well with a Beastman Primaris Psyker so he should be ready for some photos soon
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Post by: ConanMan
Inso I just found this board today - it is amazing, have you seen this guys work?
http://eldar.arhicks.co.uk/miniatures/eldar/craftworld/images/pegasus_1_119.jpg
I think you two should meet up and do a video of a game together! Automatically Appended Next Post: http://eldar.arhicks.co.uk/miniatures/eldar/craftworld/pegasus_1.php
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Post by: Inso
It would certainly be cool to see two converted armies fighting... but I don't game... I just collect, convert, sculpt and paint Automatically Appended Next Post: Here's a WIP Beastman Primaris Psyker with a touch of the Jedi about him :
The head obviously needs finishing... but then it's mostly detailing and tidying up the missed bits. He's going to get a holstered laspistol and his hooves will be in boots or will have spats on them. He'll also get the Tau powerpack on his back to power the refractor field. The head is going to be the classic goat style... if I can get it right
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Post by: insaniak
I don't think I have words for how much I love those servitors...
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Post by: Inso
Well, all they are are converted Necrons with tracked units from here:
http://www.anvilindustry.co.uk/AFTERLIFE/Republic-Taurus-Gun-Tractors
As for the other servitors... same again with the Necron conversion but they go a bit further... here is a how to for the bodies (three pages):
http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d161/Inso/Beetlebots/BotHowTo1.jpg
http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d161/Inso/Beetlebots/BotHowTo2.jpg
http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d161/Inso/Beetlebots/BotHowTo3.jpg
Not too difficult but a little time consuming. Making the arms was just a bits-box grab and the main part of the Necron Gauss Gun.
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Post by: Inso
More progress on the Beastman (still WIP):
Horns and tidying things up now.
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Post by: Inso
I think it's finished now:
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Post by: Buttery Commissar
Oh wow, I feel bad having somehow missed this topic, your stuff is amazing!
On the plus side, backlog of awesome to look through. [Hops to it]
(hi, by the way, assuming you're Inso from the FoD?)
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Post by: Inso
Cheers
...and yes I am that Inso
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Post by: Inso
After a few comments I've received about things that could be better, I have updated the Beastman to have a bit of hair and a line down his top lip:
Hopefully, it looks a bit better
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Post by: lliu
Wow! that skill with Green Stuff!
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Post by: Inso
Thank you
Hopefully, there will be more soon... a heavy weapon squad for the first platoon
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Post by: timthehierodule
The sculpting work here is very impressive!
Do you mind sharing with us what tools you use to get the smooth muscles/creases and faces??
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Post by: Inso
I have a photo of the tools I use for sculpting that I will post up, however, the main tools are a standard metal sculpting tool, a 'clayshaper' and a lot of patience.
To get a smooth finish, you need to keep your sculpting tool moist (I use my own saliva/spit but other people use water, vaseline or even the grease from the side of their nose), you need to work the area in question until it is relatively smooth with your metal tool and then carefully use clay shapers on the area (not always necessary). Let things sit for about 20 miniutes and if it isn't smooth enough, rework the area and this will smooth things up nicely.
But remember that a sulpt needs a firm foundation so work in layers on to a solid armature. Make sure that you have your sculpt fitted to a firm base so that you can hold on to the base rather than putting finger prints on your sculpt.
Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day so if you are working an area and you are getting finger prints on it because you keep forgetting you've worked that area after you've moved on to the next one, STOP! Little and often but allow things to dry.
The biggest thing to remember about sculpting is to keep practicing. The more you sculpt, the more you will build up your own techniques and the better you will become. Automatically Appended Next Post: As promised, here is a picture of the tools I use for my conversion work. Not pictured is glue and needle nosed pliers:
Items 2,3,4 and 5 are what I use to sculpt with.
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Post by: Inso
Back with some squats... a finished heavy weapon squad:
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Post by: Accolade
God, I'm in love with this blog
If you ever decide to part with those squats, Inso, you just let me know! That aside though, how were you able to acquire so many squats, and did it cost you your firstborn child?
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Post by: Inso
Cheers I'm glad you like them.
I have many plastic Squats and most have come from EBay. Even the expensive ones were less than £2.00 each...the cheapest ones were less than £1.00 (but needed a bit of paint stripping).
It is very much a case of looking every day at random times to see what is about on EBay
(I have over 150).
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Post by: Inso
As ever, I am still plodding along with this project and have updated my blog with a few bits and bobs... here's a teaser (the first completed platoon - apart from vehicles):
For what's coming up and other stuff besides, pop along to my blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/07/what-eclectic-week.html
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Post by: RandyMcStab
Just caught up with the blog, very impressed with the level of sculpting, makes me feel very amateurish! The amount of work to do every set of arms (not to mention everything else) is prettys staggering. Looking forward to seeing them painted.
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Post by: Inso
Cheers
Painting will come when the novelty of sculpting all those arms wears off !
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Post by: RandyMcStab
Amazed it hasn't already!
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Post by: Inso
I have at least another 35 to go before I can lay down my sculpting tools and start painting... I need to finish the second platoon and the army command squad yet.
I have plans for other stuff but if I can get the two platoons and command squad finished, I'll be happy
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Post by: Inso
I ended up shortening the arms a little on these but here is the finished command squad for the second platoon:
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Post by: Ketara
Absolutely beautiful. Do you take commissions?
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Post by: Inso
I occasionally take commissions (I have two at the moment) but I am very unreliable...
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Post by: ThunderFury 2575
These are absolutely fantastic! Makes me want some chaos squats in my Iron Warriors!
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Post by: SJM
Really impressive green stuff work, I like how these are coming on.
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Post by: Inso
Cheers
I have the next squad on the table; the first of the infantry squads for the second platoon.
Fortunately, I started all of the base work a while ago so it is mostly just a case of arms, hands and the odd backpack strap.
I robbed the second platoon of its heavy weapons teams for the first platoon so I need to start those from scratch... but I'll do all five teams once I have sorted out the bulk of the infantry squads (mostly because I haven't decided how the loader's ammunition will look - it will be small missiles but I haven't decided on tubes or boxes for the storage).
So... cheers again things are ticking along
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Post by: LeCacty
But... SQUATS DONT EXIST! Great work man!
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Post by: Inso
Everything exists... you just have to open your eyes to see it
93655
Post by: Buttery Commissar
Looking fantastic! I've never felt the need to compliment a beard before, but you've done a cracking job! They do look very well proportioned with the arm adjustments.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
This week has been one of consolidation and badgers:
As usual, there is more information on my blog; here:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/07/a-rainy-summers-day.html
1109
Post by: Inso
Here's a badger on a new, shiny base (I didn't like the ones that came with the kit):
The bases are from GW but there's more info (including some Exo/Sentinel conversions) over at Inso's World:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/a-week-of-calamity-reflection-and.html
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Post by: Warboss_Waaazag
Those are some dangerous-looking badgers.
1109
Post by: Inso
Just wait until the riders are made (I'm thinking the Squat equivalent of Catachan Jungle Fighters... but with more sunglasses and explosive lances ).
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Post by: timthehierodule
Inso wrote:I have a photo of the tools I use for sculpting that I will post up, however, the main tools are a standard metal sculpting tool, a 'clayshaper' and a lot of patience.
Thanks for the advice, Will look into getting some clay shapers!
1109
Post by: Inso
In a further, some might say heretical move, I have decided to add a unit of wyrdvane psykers to my Squat army so what better way to do it than to recycle something from yesteryear?
As a result, I had a sudden burst of inspiration and decided that Hrud would be cool additions to the army and I had something in mind so I went into my cupboard and pulled these out:
My frog-people! Now I know that the general thoughts on Hrud are that they were place-holders for space-rats but the picture in the Rogue Trader rule book didn't show a face, just a cloaked figure with a rat's tail... so that is what I have made . I may add some pouches to them at some point but they are finished apart from that.
I hope you like them
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Post by: Desubot
Oh wow they are adorable .
11029
Post by: Ketara
Where are the badgers from?
1109
Post by: Inso
The badgers are from here:
http://www.manticgames.com/mantic-shop/kings-of-war/dwarfs/product/dwarf-berserker-brock-riders-regiment-10-figures.html
... but if you click the link below the badger pic, it takes you to my Blog which has all the links for all of the miniatures that I post (unless it is EBay or not available to buy) .
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Post by: weetyskemian44
I love your work. Collecting a squat army is also a passion of mine and I may borrow a few ideas. I mostly have metal ones so far but with the market riding high I will have to move to plastic if I want another platoon. I always thought they didn't really look right but you've totally addressed that with your GS work here.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
The plastic arms always looked 'odd' to me... and the long lasguns too.
It was a shame that there wasn't more variety with heads but I guess that for a 30 year old kit, beggars can't be choosers and a few sculpted beards soon puts things right
1109
Post by: Inso
No mushrooms... just the start of a badger rider:
As is usual, there is more information on my blog and this week, it has a guide to making my frog faces, the rough rider WIP and some finished Sentinels:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/a-sunday-post-with-no-waffle.html
... oh go on then... here's a mushroom :
47976
Post by: Mr. S Baldrick
Where is the mushroom guy from? He is awsome looking
95151
Post by: RazgrizOne
You just made me like the Dwarves and trust me, it is quite an achievement! Really original work and awesome sculpting. I'm looking forward to see them painted !
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
The mushroom is one I sculpted... he's bigger than an Ogryn (he's on a 60mm base).
If you are curious why he's appeared... here's a little film:
http://www.weebls-stuff.com/badger.html
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Post by: NidLifeCrisis
Having started wargaming back around 2001, I have no experience of 'The Squats' (to be honest, I thought it was kind of an internet running joke- I guess I was half right :-P) but this blog is rapidly becoming my favourite P&M blog.
Your sculpting really is incredible; I can't imagine the time it must've taken to sculpt arms on the entire platoon! And to such a high standard.
I love where you're going with the giant badgers (surely GW would dub them 'Doom Badgers', if they released them now).
One thing that I suspect I'm not alone in demanding though:
Get some paint on the little blighters! I really can't wait to see a finished squad.
Keep up the good work!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers . You'll like what is happening with the badger-riders... I think they are going to be quite characterful. I am converting them one at a time so that I can make them individuals.
I am a victim of my muses, I'm afraid. At the moment, my sculpting muse is holding sway but I think she is getting tired... so there may be some painting fairly soon BUT I really want to get the second platoon finished before I start painting.
1109
Post by: Inso
I think I will call this one Chuck . Not much further to go... just arms, lance-head and base:
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Post by: Buttery Commissar
That is just delightful.
Possibly not the adjective you were looking for, there, but it is!
1109
Post by: Inso
Thank you (delightful is fine by me ).
He's finished apart from the base and lance-head (I'll do all the lances at the same time, once I have them assembled):
I've also got hold of some Mantic Dreadball Orx and have been thinking of what to do with them... I thought Bullgryn so I mocked this up:
I reckon they have potential.
1109
Post by: Inso
This is something I have been working on as a commission and seeing as it is definitely Squat related, I thought I'd share it here :
Squad:
Relay station for controlling aerial drones:
I've already packed them off to their new home so I hope he's happy with them .
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Post by: MerkBerk
Lovely squats - really nailed their character. Looking forward to seeing them painted!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I won't be painting these because I have already sent them off to their new owner. I have written a blog post all about it here:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/08/a-single-minded-post.html
It is nice to actually finish a commission (rather than being rubbish).
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Post by: Mymearan
Beautiful work!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I have decided to start working on the 'blockers' now.
I have finished the first platoon and the command squad for the second platoon but have stalled with the infantry because I need to sort out the gunners/loaders for the heavy weapons and I can't decide on how to model the loaders (hence they are blocking my progress). I know how the gunners will look so I have started on those now... but I have really got my thinking cap on for the ammunition boxes to go with the loaders (it will be for missiles).
Here's an example of the weapon tractor (the little missile launcher one - linked from the Anvil Industries site):
I don't know whether to have boxes for four, individual tubes or have them in pairs... I'll get there eventually
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Post by: Pekel
Everything looks fantastic - especially love the badgers. Hope to see paint on them soon!
15115
Post by: Brother SRM
The little bits of greenstuffing you're doing on these guys add a ton of character to models already bursting with it. Also those badger riders are great! Lovely work.
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Post by: NidLifeCrisis
That's a stunning looking badger rider right there, mate!
1109
Post by: Inso
Thanks .
I hope the next badger rider will be as good... He'll be based on Mr T from the A Team... and I pity the fool that gets in his way !
1109
Post by: Inso
Changing direction again (I'm very fickle)... while I was converting some gunners for my heavy weapon tractors (2nd platoon - and they are all done, waiting to dry ), I decided that I couldn't wait any longer so I started putting together a Bullgryn that is made from a Mantic Dreadball Orx model... here is the first test ( WIP) with a Hasslefree human and an older version of a GW Ogryn:
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Post by: kenshin620
This is some really great work. Got to love stunties in space!
Hrud look pretty neat too.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
They are still ticking along with five heavy weapon gunners complete and the five loaders WIP. Once they are done (and their weapon tractors cleaned and assembled), the rest of the second platoon should be straight forward.
It is slow progress... but it is still progress
1109
Post by: Inso
I had hoped to be a bit further along with these... but here are five finished gunners with five assembled missile launchers:
The loaders are on the table and are still WIP... but will be finished this week (at some point).
1109
Post by: Inso
All of the heavy weapon teams for the second platoon are now finished:
I've already got the remaining troops out for the first squad so things will hopefully move quite quickly
99
Post by: insaniak
Fantastic!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I've already moved on and finished the two squad leaders for the two infantry squads. The special weapon carriers were already finished... so I now have 12 troops to finish and the infantry for the second platoon will be done
Then I just need to buy 3 Warzone Vulkans and convert them into Sentinels and the platoon will be at the same standard as the first one.
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Post by: Kid_Kyoto
I love this army.
By the way ahve you seen this?
Seems it would be perfect!
http://www.ramshacklegames.co.uk/newrel.html
1109
Post by: Inso
Aye, it's not bad but for a land train it needs to be bigger .
I'd start with a baneblade and work from there... if I was going to do it.
My army is an Astra Millitarum force so there is no place for land trains I'm afraid .
There's some nice stuff there though
518
Post by: Kid_Kyoto
Something like this maybe?
I'd point out though the Ramshakle train is almost perfectly set up to be a leman Russ and a hydra, and just a few guns from being a Chimera too.
1109
Post by: Inso
The thing is that I am making my own vehicles and they will all be hovercraft.
The back story to my Squats is that they are active on a marshy planet so hover vehicles are the best form of transport.
I have scoured the net looking for my ideal vehicle and it isn't out there so I will be scratchbuilding the vehicles and casting them
(I have ordered from Ramshackle before and am not a fan of the resin that is used Or the quality control... ).
1109
Post by: Inso
One of the missile teams from an earlier post, now has a full infantry squad to join... this being the first infantry squad of the second platoon:
There is more information on my blog too:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/09/more-progress-and-machine-has-started.html
1109
Post by: Inso
The last of the standard infantry squads for the second platoon is now finished :
I have started work on the army command HQ now... once they are finished I may start painting a few
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Post by: Warboss_Waaazag
Awesome conversions!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
Here's two platoons all finished :
1109
Post by: Inso
In other news, I have started to build the first vehicle:
For more information (especially the reason behind changing from hovercraft vehicles), platoon pictures and other stuff, pop along to Inso's World:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/09/many-things.html Automatically Appended Next Post: This will be the Chimera version eventually:
1109
Post by: Inso
The APC is ticking along...
There is more stuff on my blog... including my first attempt at casting and a rather unexpected appearance by, of all things, an ORK :
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/victory-and-defeat-all-in-same-week.html
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Post by: Knightley
Full of scratch building win, thats what this thread is, I really like the squats, they just ooze charisma.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I will be working on the command squad next and will step back from the APC for a little while to achieve this.
When the command squad is finished, I can start painting
1109
Post by: Inso
I have started work on the command squad but haven't got very far:
There is more information (and the big reason why progress has been slow) over at Inso's World:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/preparation-and-progress.html
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Post by: adamsouza
Their arms are a bit skinny
1109
Post by: Inso
To completely change the tone for a minute or two... I went and bought a box of Skitarii because I thought they'd be a good starter to build a squad of veteran Tyranid hunters from. It is very early yet... but here is where I have got to so far:
I have put a big lump of text on my blog to go with this so if you want to get a bit of background on this rather impromptu diversion, follow the link:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/a-momentous-week.html
1109
Post by: Inso
I have just written a sprawling army list on my blog... if you want to see a wall of text, here's the link :
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/10/squat-army-organisation.html
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Post by: MerkBerk
Inso wrote:Cheers
I will be working on the command squad next and will step back from the APC for a little while to achieve this.
When the command squad is finished, I can start painting
Can't wait Hoping your painting is as good as your conversion work!
1109
Post by: Inso
I have painted a single miniature in the last year so I expect to be pretty rusty
Fortunately, I have a few spare miniatures to use to test the paint scheme
1109
Post by: Inso
In another, classic, change of direction, I have been building and converting Exo troopers. These are the most recent ones:
They complete the ten man Exo squad and all of the information and extra pix can be seen here:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/time-for-some-heavy-hitters.html
Hopefully, if circumstances improve, I will get some work done on the army command squad... I need to get that finished!!!
1109
Post by: Inso
So another drought has passed... and I have a nice picture of another finished unit; the second Squadron of armoured Sentinels:
There is more info on my blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/another-item-ticked-off-list.html
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Post by: War Kitten
Those sentinels look quite good. Excellent work
1109
Post by: Inso
Thank you
Now onto the army command HQ squad
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Post by: Plains of War
Dude, this blog is amazing! the conversion work is superb! Please post more soon!!
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Post by: NidLifeCrisis
Plains of War wrote:Dude, this blog is amazing! the conversion work is superb! Please post more soon!!
Seconded! Those dreads are brilliant
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
The command Squad will be next
1109
Post by: Inso
I have finally started to get some work done on the command squad:
Still lots to go but there are a few little 'bumps' that I need to iron out with the unit before I will be able to finish them. I will be the first to admit that they aren't necessarily the best armed/equipped unit from a gaming perspective... but I don't game so it doesn't concern me too much.
As usual, I have added extra details and other things, in my weekly blog post:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/its-just-case-of-getting-there.html
1109
Post by: Inso
I have now finished the commander:
...and will be moving onto the next member of the squad soon. I have also been working on the second primaris psyker/Beastman Jedi and have been preping some miniatures for paint (amongst other things). There is more information and pictures on my blog here:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2015/11/we-have-commander.html
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Post by: Commander Cain
Impressive sculpting on that commander! It blends in so naturally with the plastic itself.
17796
Post by: Slinky
Just wonderful sculpting there - Bravo!
1109
Post by: Inso
Thank you
Four more to go and then I will start painting some
306
Post by: Boss Salvage
THE PAINTENING!
Lil' painted beardy guys are looking good. Happy to see your modeling work feel the sting of the brush
- Salvage
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Post by: ArbitorIan
Lovely work - i think C has more 'pop'.
1109
Post by: Inso
I was thinking C with the hat/arm/leg green of B.
8049
Post by: ArbitorIan
I agree. The green on the others is really nice, partly because it's the old squat colour!
The only issue I can think of with the lighter brown shade is that certain beard colours will blend in a bit too much
1109
Post by: Inso
I hadn't thought about beard colours... but I guess there will always be times where something will clash/blend in... as long as there is a clear line of shade between the beard / jacket, I am sure it will be ok .
I may put a few more together to make sure that the chosen scheme works
(I may also see if I can find a more drab green... more US military drab green in colour than the fairly bright/dark greens I have).
78343
Post by: NidLifeCrisis
First off: at that commander! You are without a doubt the most talented greenstuff-er I've seen on these or any other forums. That beard + the lens/monocle are just mind-blowing.
Secondly: Yayyyyy! Paint!
Sorry I haven't got time for a more detailed feedback on A, B and C, but I'll get back to you!
1109
Post by: Inso
So I saw some female head sprues over at Statuesque miniatures ( http://www.statuesqueminiatures.co.uk/ ) and thought that they would look good on a few Squats... so I bought some and fitted one on a Squat body. Initially they were slightly small but I padded out the cheeks and this is what I came up with:
I will be putting together a unit of these and will use them as veterans. Most will have berets . I just need to decide on what special/heavy weapons to give them now.
This is the first painted 'official' member of the army to be painted .
14573
Post by: metallifan
I absolutely love this, OP. But you realize that somewhere in the bowels of the Earth, beneath Nottingham, the GW fluff censorship team has already sensed the quality of your work and is having a collective aneurysm over your outstanding effort to paint the Squats in the light of legitimacy once again.
91167
Post by: MerkBerk
Ha ha - love it - great stuff as always!
But (let me be the first), where's the beard?
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
... and there may be a couple of spare heads so don't be surprised if a bearded version turns up at some point
10667
Post by: Fifty
Hah, she looks awesome with her chubby little cheeks! Reminds me of Ricky Gervais.
91468
Post by: War Kitten
She came out great! Nice work, can't wait to see the rest of the squad.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I have another five (with berets) on the table at the moment. The trouble is, I tried using the plastic arms for them and they just looked so bad that I am going back to the arm sculpting process I have used for the other Squats... so they may take a little while to finish.
The plastic arms are really rubbish when used for two handed weapons :(
The five ladies have wire arms at the moment and will be getting some Green stuff added later . I'll get them converted and painted before I move on to the remaining 4 (3 special weapons and 1 comms).
1109
Post by: Inso
The next five WIP:
1109
Post by: Inso
Not something I am proud of (using ACTUAL Lego for conversions...) but I have been mulling something over and it just wouldn't go away :
22619
Post by: inmygravenimage
Lovely blog of tiny retro goodness! Subbed, and fat Face method nicked
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
Everything has wheels and things are moving along :
17796
Post by: Slinky
Is that the beginning of a Land Train?
1109
Post by: Inso
I'm sorry but no... just five Chimera counts-as vehicles
101635
Post by: Cadius72
very cool. I have been thinking of building a squat army but only have like 10 metal squats. But looking at the Chaos dwarf Infernal Guard I could possibly use them instead.
1109
Post by: Inso
I'm not familiar with the Infernal Guard... are they GW or something else?
I know that people convert the recent GW Dwarf plastics by giving them SM Scout arms/weapons and SM packs and they look quite effective. You could also do what I did and keep an eye on EBay... plastic Squats turn up all the time and you can get some great bargains
As for my vehicles... The next stage...
1109
Post by: Inso
I have been slaving over these APCs for most of the weekend and have got this far now:
There are more pix and some additional information over at my Blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/02/production-line-fun.html
22619
Post by: inmygravenimage
Look great, kinda arbites vibe to them.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers . They will change as they get worked on... the design is fairly fluid until I have all of the components I need. I have made a little more progress today:
1109
Post by: Inso
I'm unable to carry on with these until some parts arrive... so I've put some more information (as well as a scale pic) on my Blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/another-change-of-direction.html
There are a few other, less Squat related things on there too
91167
Post by: MerkBerk
Looking good so far
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
Thanks to Ainsty Castings, I now have five shiny new turrets for the vehicles and have started to integrate them into the vehicles:
There is more info on my blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/03/a-post-at-easter.html
51464
Post by: Veteran Sergeant
Those Squatettes are great. The sergeant model turned out excellent with the extra filling on the cheeks really making that head fit with the aesthetic of the body.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers . You should like this then because, in another odd turn of events... Captain Lysander :
Of course there is more stuff in my Blog about it:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/which-way.html
1109
Post by: Inso
Well it would appear that as a result of a side project, I have begun to work on the main event again... here's the army standard bearer (minus the flag):
I may revisit him a bit later but I am just happy to have his arms finished so he is complete... but may get some extra details at a later date (he IS part of the command squad, after all).
... and this, just for interest's sake, is the side project :
It is the first of five bodies, the next one is going to be running (and has been started).
22619
Post by: inmygravenimage
Holy macaroni. That's a belter. Nice job
78343
Post by: NidLifeCrisis
Is that... 100% greenstuff?
!
That really is so impressive, man!
1109
Post by: Inso
Thank you and apart from a bit of wire inside it, yes that is all green stuff
1109
Post by: Inso
Here's the third finished member of the army command squad; a sniper:
17796
Post by: Slinky
You're really transforming those plastics into a brilliant force, well done!
1109
Post by: Inso
Thank you ... it has taken nearly two years so far ...
...but FINALLY (WHEW!) the army command squad is finished... first the Medic and Comms:
Followed by the full squad:
I guess I should really start painting some now... but my sculpting mojo has kicked in again and I quite fancy finishing off this Psyker now:
47942
Post by: bebopdrums2424
Fantastic builds and such creative sculpts. I just read up on your plot. It's all great stuff and highly inspired. Keep up the good works! Cheers
BB
1109
Post by: Inso
I thought I'd write a tiny bit of fiction to go with my army. It just explains why certain aspects of the army are like they are... anyway... here it is:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/the-invasion-some-background-to-my.html
It also gives a little bit of a precursor to what my veteran Tyranid hunters will look like .
1109
Post by: Inso
And to finish off for the moment... A blog post to go with a massive army pic and a bit of information about what stage the army is at: http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/the-squat-army-so-far.html
92104
Post by: r_squared
Nice fluff, excellent prose, vividly and well written. Great stuff!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I am having a quiet day today so... how about a short story? This is the tale of one of the Squats who survived the Tyranids...
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/a-dwarfs-tale.html
EDIT - Part 2:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/the-demons.html
1109
Post by: Inso
More background which explains some of the choices I have gone for in my army:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/after-setbacks.html
82423
Post by: Low_K
Always had a soft spot for Squats and have quite a few Olley's not-Squats. What you did, Sir, is very cool indeed. Great Greenstuffing skills!
Subbed!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
Hopefully, I'll keep things going and eventually get some of them painted !
1109
Post by: Inso
Well, I guess it's back to boring old pictures of converted miniatures again ... here's a complete (apart from the light-sabre tips) Primaris Psyker... or Jedi Beastman... whichever works best for you :
There is a bit of blurb on the blog... including some Pug related fun :
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/back-to-normal-again.html
It's good to get back to normal (whatever that is ).
101221
Post by: JustALittleOrkish
Looks amazing. How will the ends of the lightsaber be painted? Just wondering what the thicker ends will represent
1109
Post by: Inso
They won't be fatter, to quote: "finished (apart from the light-sabre tips) ...
I have sanded them down so that they match the diameter of the tube now. I plan to paint them as near as I can to lightsabres
101221
Post by: JustALittleOrkish
Inso wrote:They won't be fatter, to quote: "finished (apart from the light-sabre tips) ...
Oops, that'll teach me not to read the text
1109
Post by: Inso
Only a tiny bit of progress on the last of the Jedi Beastmen:
And there is a bit of news about how the Space Marine part of the army will be filled up, over at Inso's World:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/the-wait-is-finally-over.html
78187
Post by: Thraxas Of Turai
Was about to ask if you had any intentions to use the Forge Father plastics, am interested to see how you put them to use.
Congratulations on your Son's achievement as well.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I am planning on the Steel Warriors getting minimal conversion... but that might change when they arrive and I can see exactly how big they are and how they look.
The one thing that I may have to alter is the helmet shape (to make them less squashed) but I'll have to see what happens
I already have the Forge Guard, so I'll be using the new ones in the same way:
1109
Post by: Inso
In other news... I bought some of the new Mantic Forge Father 'Steel Warriors' recently and have put a couple together. I was hoping that they would fit into my army without any conversion but you will see from the pic that they are far too tall (from left to right: Squat, Squat/Steel Warrior, Steel Warrior, Space Marine):
I have quickly put together a mock-up of a Steel Warrior body on the legs from a 'sawn in half' plastic Squat (using blu-tack) to see how it looks... and I think that the height will work but I now need to work out how I am going to convert 20 of them without necessarily having to sculpt 20 pairs of legs ...
... nothing ever goes smoothly :( .
There are other issues with them but I will sort out a review and post it in my blog once I can bring myself to do it. I am quietly disappointed with them... even though, in their own right, they are nice looking miniatures... just too big for my particular army :(
22619
Post by: inmygravenimage
I saw some excellent squats done recently with whfb dwarves and sm scout arms/bits. In particular, the arms were perfect - just for variety's sake, might be viable?
1109
Post by: Inso
inmygravenimage wrote:I saw some excellent squats done recently with whfb dwarves and sm scout arms/bits. In particular, the arms were perfect - just for variety's sake, might be viable?
Cheers for the heads up
I think I know which ones you may be on about (mostly grey but with orange beards). They are very nice but I have just spent my hobby cash on a big bunch of these Mantic miniatures so I need to stick with them (even if it means I have to be a bit creative with the legs
I agree with the fantasy/scout crossovers though... the ones I saw were very nice... they had a proper Hearthguard look to them
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Post by: ArbitorIan
Have Mantic changed the whole forge father range to be taller, or is it just the Steel Warriors? Seems like an odd move....
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Post by: Inso
It seems to be just the Steel Warriors at the moment but who knows.
In other news, I've got a bit further with my latest Jedi beastman:
For lots more information, including the latest Squat body sculpt and a full review of the new Mantic Steel Warriors, feel free to visit my Blog for the latest post:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/another-week-of-happenings.html
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Post by: evildrcheese
Beastmen look great dude.
EDC
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers . That last one should be finished this week and then I will start on the Squat berserkers... angry Squats with big mohawks and bad attitudes that will count as Ministorum Priests
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Post by: shasolenzabi
Cool squats army concept Inso! Hmm the steel ones, yeah tall, but they could be something of the freakier squats, or half-human/half-squats.
1109
Post by: Inso
Well I am hoping that I can solve the height issue as long as I can work out how to get some decent casts because I've already started on three pairs of legs for the Steel Warriors:
1109
Post by: Inso
Well, I've finished the first 'leg blank':
I will be press moulding this and then adding pouches etc to the casts. I think that the legs have turned out OK (not awesome... just OK) but if the pressmoulding works, it will add a new dimension to how I produce the legs. If it doesn't work, I will have to get them cast up for me... so we'll have to see.
this afternoon, I have been messing around with Blue Stuff / Instant Mould and I currently have a little cast drying in the stuff. I just put a standard plastic Squat body in there, just to see how it turns out. It will be squashed after I have seen what I need to . I am using a mix of Green Stuff and Milliput in the mould so now it's just a case of sitting and waiting for a couple of hours .
This could be the start of a beautifull friendship (or not )....
1109
Post by: Inso
I'll just be ticking along with the leg sculpting because they are a bit down the list of things to complete for the army... the first being the unit of Primaris Psykers / Jedi Beastmen... which, by chance, I have now finished:
I still need to adjust the base to tilt him forward a little but I am glad to have his sculpting done. Next up will be the three Ministorum Priests / Squat Berserkers... but I haven't started them yet.
As is usually the case, there is more information on the Blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/05/lots-of-stuff.html
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Post by: Eccentricnormality
Wow that greenstuff work is really inspiring! Love it! Keep up the amazing work
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers I'll try
I think it's time to get back to the Squats and here is the first WIP of one of the Ministorum Priests / Squat Berserkers:
Still a long way to go but this head sort of sculpted itself so I just went with it. The other two are not as far along as this one... but I guess it's a start .
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Post by: Bi'ios
The beard and eyebrows are fantastic on that head.
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Post by: insaniak
That is fantastic work.
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Post by: STG
Can you do a tutorial on how to sculpt beards? I would love to put some beards on my IG. cheers
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Post by: Theophony
Insane
I never saw a squat next to a marine for size comps, never realized they were that small.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I just hope the next heads turn out of a similar standard (it's a very fickle thing, a sculpting muse ).
STG wrote:Can you do a tutorial on how to sculpt beards? I would love to put some beards on my IG. cheers
I can but it probably won't help that much... but in the interrim:
1. Put a blob of GS around the chin and shape it roughly into the shape of a beard.
2. Using a moistened sculpting tool, carefully scribe in the 'hairs' (I sort of back-comb... it'll show better in the tutorial).
3. Let the beard dry.
4. Place small blobs of GS either side of the top lip and shape them into a moustache.
5. Using a moistened sculpting tool, carefully scribe in the 'hairs' (I sort of back-comb... it'll show better in the tutorial).
The key points are to only use as much GS as you need and not go too mad, let the beard dry before you add the moustache and always keep your sculpting tools moist.
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Post by: STG
thanks dude!
1109
Post by: Inso
I've started the second Berserker:
I have also been doing a bit of press moulding:
The results and a bit more information can be found on my latest blog post:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/press-moulding-fun.html
With my thoughts on my hobby on the post that follows the one above... or if you want a link:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/what-heck-am-i-doing.html
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Post by: Boss Salvage
Impressive press mold results, unexpectedly effective!
- Salvage
1109
Post by: Inso
It works really well... I was surprised at how well myself
There are videos explaining the process here (scroll down):
http://www.greenstuffworld.com/en/reusable-blue-stuff/2-blue-stuff-mold-4-bars.html
I would recommend that everyone gives it a go... it is great fun and can be very helpful with conversions (as I have demonstrated ).
1109
Post by: Inso
Well... the first five Scout proxies are finished:
I now need to sculpt another pair of legs in a different pose for the next five. I think they've turned out OK so far and once I have made a total of four leg poses and press-moulded them up, I'll be able to mix and match between 5-man squads for a bit of variety.
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Post by: shasolenzabi
Great looking sculpt work! I know that you would liked to have been more detailed, but hey, those are some short legs the squats have!those guys look great!
1109
Post by: Inso
Yep, I'd have liked to put more details in but I was worried that the press moulding wouldn't pick them up so I stopped short (there's a pun there ).
In the meantime, the second body is now finished so I only have three more to go now. The next one is on the cork :
Once they are done... I am hopefully going to be able to dedicate a little time to painting Death
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Post by: shasolenzabi
Nice!
Oh that running pose is nice! will make for a more dynamic squat soldier!
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Post by: combat engineer
Any thought on running them as an Age of Darkness Imperial Militia?
The conversions are brillant. Love the look of the entire force, please keep dropping us pictures.
Mat
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I don't game so I am only collecting them to meet Codecii that I already have (Astra Militarum and Space Marines).
I am sure that the Imperial Militia rules would work for them but I don't have that book.
I've also got a big plan which is all based on the two Codecii that I have and it may mean a lot of reorganising to fit a different list... and because I don't game, I see no point in changing everything.
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Post by: plastictrees
Inso wrote:Well... the first five Scout proxies are finished:
I now need to sculpt another pair of legs in a different pose for the next five. I think they've turned out OK so far and once I have made a total of four leg poses and press-moulded them up, I'll be able to mix and match between 5-man squads for a bit of variety.
These look fantastic!
Sculpting the shorter legs for the Mantic bodies also ends up with a neat egg shaped nod to the original Squat exo armour.
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Post by: Desubot
Dude fantastic sculpts
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
This week has been mostly Berserk :
There is more info on my blog (as usual):
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/im-going-berserk.html
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Post by: Azazelx
Amazing work and amazing sculpting. Very impressive stuff both here and on the blog.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
It was pointed out to me that the angry Berserker had a 'monkey mouth' and I looked at it and agreed... so I have altered it a little and have seen an improvement . I listen to constructive criticism :
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Post by: inmygravenimage
Stunning. And that pistol is freakin' hilarious
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
All the berserkers are finished now:
There are individual pix of all of the berserkers and a WIP pic of the next unit (veterans) over at Inso's World:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/another-mixed-bag.html
1109
Post by: Inso
Here's the first five Veteran Tyranid Hunters (more info on my blog: http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/06/veteran-tyranid-hunters.html ) :
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Post by: Slinky
The berserkers are simply astoundingly good! And I like the look of the hunters too, a bit more "sci-fi"
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Post by: Kid_Kyoto
Great stuff all around, take a bow!
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
I have the other five on the table but they will be on slow burn until next week... I'm off partying and doubt I'll be able to hold a sculpting tool without shaking
1109
Post by: Inso
It's been a slow week but the lasgunners for the Tyranid Hunters are all at the same stage now:
This pic shows the press-moulded heads that I made so that I could have space inside the helmet to sculpt on each face. These are all in need of faces (obviously), the helmets being filled/cleaned up and then it is just a case of gluing on the arms and packs.
I am thinking that a couple of these will have some facial disfigurement/bionic implants and one may even have a full face-plate to hide his terrible injuries. I have also started a third detachment for my army but I am not in a position to share anything interesting just yet... but it will be fun .
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Post by: weetyskemian44
That's brilliant and I love it
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
... and now... Hmmm...
Just the start of something (currently 18mm tall).
1109
Post by: Inso
Still very WIP but I am getting there :
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Post by: evildrcheese
Nice work dude. The sculpt is coming along nicely.
EDC
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
Here's where it's at now:
I reckon the cat is out of the bag now as well... Vindicare anyone?
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Post by: theCrowe
Wowza! Can't possibly be any greater squat army in the world right now than the one you're making. It's just top quality work through and through. Your talent for this is jaw-dropping!
1109
Post by: Inso
The finished Vindicare Assassin :
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Post by: RedMax
awesome work with molds.
1109
Post by: Inso
Five finished Squat bodies, ready for sending to their new owner :
1109
Post by: Inso
I have had a dodgy moment with the Eversor Assassin and he ended up massive... so I did this instead... I went and finished the veteran Tyranid hunters :
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Post by: shasolenzabi
Oh those guys look great with the Skitarii gear added!
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Post by: weetyskemian44
Kick-ass squats! I'd never have thought that would work with skitari arms but there it is.
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
They are shortened Skitari withGreenstuff bodies and heads. The helmets were press-moulded from a single sculpt (so they were all the same).
The rifles were also shortened and they represent lasguns and plasmaguns.
This squad is a veteran Squad with carapace armour (due to the mechanical bodies).
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Post by: evildrcheese
These are looking absolutely beautiful, awesome skills.
EDC
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers
The next squad will be my veteran ladies
1109
Post by: Inso
Or not... and so the production line starts again. From leg sculpt, to press moulding and finally to being assembled with plastic components from a Mantic Steel Warrior... all that is needed now is the belt buckle, pouches and holsters to be sorted out and these will be finished:
I have another lump of putty in the mould at the moment and that should be ready to remove tomorrow.
I plan on having six squads of five and that means I need to sculpt five different poses of legs to make every squad have no legs the same. I have already finished the first unit of five in one leg pose, this is the second with a third leg sculpt 'on the corks'. Once I have produced six casts from each of the five leg poses, I will mix them into their final units ...
Then I will have six units of Squat Hearthguard (count as Space Marine Scouts) .
1109
Post by: Inso
They are all finished now:
Lots more information about them can be found on my blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/a-rainy-sunday-morning.html
Next up... another leg sculpt to complete .
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Post by: shasolenzabi
They are coming along very nicely! primed squad really looks hard to tell that they have custom parts(legs), so well done!
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Post by: evildrcheese
Great work. The custom legs look great with the mantic plastics.
EDC
1109
Post by: Inso
Cheers .
I wish they weren't necessary but I couldn't leave them the height they were... so drastic measures had to be taken
I have been putting together a Sgt Telion 'counts as' from one of the leg casts:
There is more info on my blog:
http://insosworld.blogspot.co.uk/2016/10/winter-is-coming.html
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