This message, and whole thread are been modified to reflect the current state of my hobby build


Hi fellow hobbyists.

My name is Bojan and I've been in and out of the hobby for more then a decade. Mainly because I lived on the country side and did not have with whom to play, learn, advance etc. Once I moved to city, I my life took a turn toward my carreer and MTG. Until I got myself a Dark Vengeance set. With that, I started playing more actively, rediscovering my love toward the hobby.

In 2015 I've gone deeper into the hobby and actually assembled a proper army. Ke'lshan's 6th SkyLight Patrol Cadre became my obsession and I put a lot effort not just in models, but also in articles and fluff to support it. When GW put new models last October, I decided to rename my cadre, because it grew bigger and now forms a whole Contingent! Now, when I'm coming to the third phase of my Tau build, I'm collecting bits and converting some of my minis, adding terrain pieces and getting ready to kind-a complete the force.
So, in the following galleries you can find the development and the state of Ke'lshan's 6th SkyLight Patrol Contingent.



You can find The Assembly of the 6th Ke'lshan SkyLight Patrol Contingent on pages #1 thru #3, and gallery by following this link
You can find the army profile, fluff story and more finished pictures by clicking on link here.



This is the Dark Elf Charriot that I completed for my friend. He got is as a gift back in the day, it sat on his shelf for ages, then he gave it to me... And I put it together and returned to his shelf.




After some paint touches and contemplating best way to acquire&add models to the display, I opted to keep only the Chariot and place it onto 120*90mm GW base. Little bit of flock, some steppe grass and a 'rock' completed my first display ever. You can check it out on page #3, or in the gallery here.


On my beginning, I was in doubt whether I should go with Tau or with Necrons. I went with Tau, but Necrons were in the back of my head all along. Now, they are shipped and will be on my desk soon enough. Tau were per-assembled and enhanced. Necrons will be fully assembled, painted and properly based!

You can check the work gallery here, and on this thread starting page 4. Full Eternal Phlanax is on the horisont!

I do have wish to collect some Adeptus Mechanicus and maybe some DeathWatch, but all in it's good time.
Third and more scenic project is my Assassinorum Force. By the time it becomes vintage, I'll have an amazing piece. I won't tell you much, as I don't want to jink myself.


Thanks for checking out.

My first big choice fell on Tau Empire. Greater Good, some awesome models and various ways to field your army... In order to get myself a head start, I started looking for a pre made army, with nice choice of models and some Forge World stuff.



However, I did not like the paint scheme. It doesn't go with the fluff I made and some other glittery ideas. Today, I got myself some acetone-free polish remover, cotton balls, glue, exacto knife, black primer and glitter spray. And made a plan to finish my army before I go for a vacation. So I can enjoy my vacation kicking some Ork ass.
As recommended by few Dakka users, I started removing paint from models using Acetone free polish remover. Tooth brush, cotton balls and a fan to push the fumes away. It is chemistry indeed.


But progress has been made. Here are the Skimmer engines, in step by step phase.

Since I have a range of new figures as well, I made a plan to 'remove paint/coat new' one day, and then other day I 'assemble new'.
Today, I got to play with my drones. I went thru all my bit bags and some of new sets and assembled all possible combinations of drones. They are ready to enter the paint shop once I'm done with my skimmers.



6 Sniper Drones
5 Marker Drones
4 Interceptor Drones
3 Missile Drones
1 Recon Drone
1 Grav Inh. Drone
1 Pulse Acc. Drone
1 Gun Drone

So, today was an "remove paint/coat new" day.
I continued working on my Skimmers. And made a lot of progress. Take a look at some pics below.

I removed all blue paint from the model. I didn't bother with the white, as it was a primer. However, on a number of places the primer went down as well.



Once I washed the model with soap an tooth brush and let it go dry completely, I made a next step. Coating again in fine air spray black.


Final layer was glitter. It may not be super-visible on the picture, but it is there. And it looks amazing!


Tomorrow, I'm looking at assembling some Piranha's.

Today I decided go to ahead and assemble my Piranhas. I have learned a lot.


Model is beautiful, but to assemble it can be a tricky task. Not all parts fit to each other.



And by that, I don't mean they are poorly cast or need little work on them. I mean that they fit to each other differently, to a point where I got to different looks.



Take a good look. One on the left has nice sides and bumper, but sides are a 2mm wider than the bottom of the body on each side. One on the right, bottom and sides fit nicely, but the top of the bumper (and overlap on one side) make a poor contact. I guess, little bit of green stuff is in order.



But all in all, I had fun assembling these. I'll paint them tomorrow, along with a second bunch of drones that I got with my army (mostly gun drones).

You remember how I started working on those drones... And got to a point where I should paint them.
You also remember how I started working on those Piranhas... And got to a point where I should paint them.
Well, today was the day.



I started painting my drones, while assembling some more. Realized I don't have enought Missile support.





And 51 drone later...

Today I took it easy. Commander ShadowSun and his buddies came to visit and do some armor upgrades.
Talking about upgrades, I have a question...

Do you know what is this for I can't seem to find a spot on my XV25's for this, or any picture that would indicate what it is and where it goes
Thanks.

That bit has no purpose, it's just something to fill space on the sprue apparently.

I guess it is gonna become the new objective...



Automatically Appended Next Post:
Today I finished another DevilFish, including few XV25 suits. At this point, I have to start adding color details, before I make the final assembly.




I have a Pathfinder squad to assemble... And few more models to strip of paint/prime and glitterize.

Hey guys,

no updates yesterday. I took a day off and spent it on playing 'Dead of Winter'. And writing a short fluff to join our dakkanaut DA STORMLORD in creation of his new Tau worlds.
You can read all about it here.

http://www.dakkadakka.com/dakkaforum/posts/list/647931.page

Today I took it really easy. Assembling my Pathfinder Squad. I'll make two Shas'ui 's, so I can run a two five man squads (if needed ). I also have a DarkStrider, to further buff my pathfinder capabilities.

Hey man, some great stuff here. Acetone free stinks, I was dreading the second time using that stuff on my necron overlord. I dont know how you managed it...

Yeah, you need to be in a well ventilated area! Or just use one of these. Serving the Greater Good has its benefits!



Meanwhile, I entered an 'assembly frenzy'. Pathfinder squad fully assembled, Cadre FireBlade, DarkStrider, two XV-9's. Once all glue is dry, I'm gonna start priming them, in preparation for payday and some actual painting.

Lol, nice mask.

XV9 and co are looking good

I like the posing of the XV9's, they look very dynamic .

 Da Stormlord wrote:
Lol, nice mask.
XV9 and co are looking good

 hk1x1 wrote:
I like the posing of the XV9's, they look very dynamic .

Thanks guys. Putting them on a flying base really made things easier and allowed me more space to be creative. It is really tricky to pose them from the ground up, as all joints are adjustable and you really need to know your to get them standing on their own.

Keeping up the pace, today I started priming previously assembled models. Pathfinders, Stealth suits, XV-9's, R'Alai...



Plus, a squad of XV-88's came in for some armor redefined! Escorted by existing XV-9, that also want to do pick up a new color scheme. The old color scheme is not bad, it's just not what I want.



Mr. "Lone Warrior" came on it's own.

Hey guys,

today is completely off topic. But hey. It took my 'creative slot'. And I'm out of primer!

As I sound engineer, I do a lot of maintenance on various pieces of equipment, from $10'000 a piece gear to that $5 consumable. I go by the "weakest link in the chain is how strong you are". So, today I did some refurbishment on microphone grills. Some of them needed cleaning, and some of them needed magic.

I don't know what happened to this one. I found it in one of the cases. It took a hell of a fall. Not to mention all the other green stuff that was stuck between the mesh.



After some brushing, MC HAMMER came to aid. After few rhymes on the mic, the grill came to...


I admit. It is pretty far from what it should be, but considering the initial state, I think I did good. It also gave me time to thing what I need to get myself to continue my Cadre. Varnish, Glue, Primer, Glitter, Micron Pan and few paints w/ brushes. Hopefully, I'll place my order with FW as well, so I expect some Tetra, TX-42 and Remora reinforcements.

This is an interesting project so far, but it needs some infividual panache to make it stand out. Since you're a sound engineer, might I suggest a sonic Hammerhead?

 bossfearless wrote:
This is an interesting project so far, but it needs some individual panache to make it stand out. Since you're a sound engineer, might I suggest a sonic Hammerhead?

I guess I could put some speakers into it and hook 'em up via Bluetooth.

Oh, you have done that on your PimpWagon. How dare you? What am I supposed to do now?



But, I must say beside the general theme, I didn't have any special ideas yet. Today I went to a local arts & crafts store and got some additional tools and paints.



Little bit of electric neon paint, few super precise 18/0 brushes, Satin to try it out as a protection layer and.... Unfortunately, wrong primer. Last time I got a ultra flat black primer... This time, because it was right next to it and I was a bit rush-headed, I picked up a primer+paint spray. I had to spray a model to try and see if it will be any good and it is not.

I'm mildly depressed right now, as this means I won't be able to work on any other model that the ones I already have primed and glittered and prepared for some actual painting. Ah well. It is not the end of the world. #FirstWorldProblem





Automatically Appended Next Post:
Just a quick sneak peak of my current progress.

Well, technically the Pimpwagon isn't all that great. Only one of the two speakers works, and they rely on a wired connection and a little ipod hidden in the base. Now a proper, bluetooth, multi-speaker affair? That's the sort of thing that would really stand out.

Greater Good takes time and patience, my dear bossfearless.

As shown in the next photo, patience was not my virtue today. I had a mishap with this XV-88. I use a glitter air spray, which gives, glitter as you might thing, but also nice shine. However, while I was spraying today, I was a bit more trigger happy and... I coated a bit more glitter than I wanted in the first place.


But my Commanders did not judge my work, but gave me support and encouraged me to continue in my pursuit for Greater TRON Good.





I must say that I am pleased with the look I'm achieving. Tomorrow I might dive into my Piranha's and SunShark's. We'll see how I feel.

So much sparkle. I think the glitter paint might actually take away from the Tron effect.

 bossfearless wrote:
So much sparkle. I think the glitter paint might actually take away from the Tron effect.

Yeah, that BroadSide really took a hit. But beside him, all other minis look fine. The problem is my camera. If I take a photo without flash, glitter looks like dirty paint. If I flash, glitter reflects everything and blinds my opponents that then feel the warmth of a fusion blaster!


Talking about Fusion Blasters, here come my two Piranhas.




It was really demanding, but I'm making good progress, completing two minis a day. I also run a 'schedule' on http://leankit.com/, just to keep track of what else I need to do, what I'm holding for what reason etc.

More pics, as my army is coming together. XV-107 in progress, two DevilFish platforms, R'Alai's personal drones and 5 MarkerLight drones.

Okay, yeah I can see the flash issue being an...issue. Keeping that in mind, maybe you should try putting together a really simple light box to cut the glare and get a good picture of your army?

 bossfearless wrote:
Okay, yeah I can see the flash issue being an...issue. Keeping that in mind, maybe you should try putting together a really simple light box to cut the glare and get a good picture of your army?

Yup, that is one of the things on the bucket list. Another one is that a friend of mine runs a photo studio. Once I complete my army, or I get a sizable force painted, I'll take it for some pictures.

Bump up!

Today I finally got my black ultra flat primer. So, that broadside that I up last week got some paint remover and some nice layer of thin flat black. I'm back on the track with that one.
Also, I primed some (preowned) XV-9's and some weapon options for my HammerHead/DevilFish platforms.


And then I continued working on drones and two tanks I had on the table. I'm getting nice results and I think my whole army will leave a nice impression on the battlefield.




Some more details will be added. I also want to magnetize 'seeker' missile under one of the nose wings (magnets ordered, but won't reach me before end of august ), hopefully find a solution to close the 'lading gear' hatches and few more paint details before I satin the model.

A cliff hanger.... Missile one 'two' ! (or a few more )

Looking good, your paint scheme is really interesting.

Stardrop, if your XV107 is still in progress, might I suggest pausing for a moment and browsing Amazon for some option kits by Bandai or Kotobukiya? They make a lot of the optional parts that I use on my guys. For example, if you were to pick up a cheap, lower-grade version of Wing Zero EW or Deathscythe Gundam, you'd have a very badass set of poseable wings that would go well with your aesthetic. There are energy shields, battery operated rotating cannons, explosions and muzzle flashes, energy beams, everything you need to make that larger class of suit really intimidating.

Hey guys,

sorry for not posting anything for a week. I... Well, my Kidney (Also know as the WARP) decided to spawn a Kidney Stone (A lesser Chaos Daemon). So I had to calm myself down, do all possible tests, go on land to do a CT scan that unveiled a 6x5x3.2mm Railgun round ready to fly out and all that shenanigans. I still haven't fired it, but I determined to go back to my regular schedule, which includes finishing my project.

Talking about Rail Guns, I started working on mine. I used a little bit of gravity, to make the paint crawl down the gun shaft.

 Da Stormlord wrote:
Looking good, your paint scheme is really interesting.

Thanks. My basic idea was 'tron' style army, but I kinda drifted away using neon and 'electric' paints. But, I do have fluff that will support it nicely. And I have another short story coming your way.

 bossfearless wrote:
Stardrop, if your XV107 is still in progress, might I suggest pausing for a moment and browsing Amazon for some option kits by Bandai or Kotobukiya? They make a lot of the optional parts that I use on my guys. For example, if you were to pick up a cheap, lower-grade version of Wing Zero EW or Deathscythe Gundam, you'd have a very badass set of poseable wings that would go well with your aesthetic. There are energy shields, battery operated rotating cannons, explosions and muzzle flashes, energy beams, everything you need to make that larger class of suit really intimidating.

I did quite a research on those kits, and there are a lot of interesting things to unique my army. However, I have to be really careful now, as I'm running out of budget (I know, $20 for a GunDam is not much at all) and I need to get new suitcase for my minis and some other things. We'll see. I can always get myself a XV-104 and go bad ass on that.

Today I have pretty much whole day for myself...
And my XV-25 battlesuit squad, led by commander wearing a XV-22 battle suit.


My God, that ShadowSun model is such a poor casting. I have real trouble painting it, because I don't know what to paint. I used my thinnest primer, and I really worked on the model to strip all the mold lines etc. ... We'll see how it turns out.



Automatically Appended Next Post:
So, after (quite a) few hours in the workshop, my StealthSuit team is assembled and ready.
7 member team is awaiting final coat of satin and some clear bases (provided that they arrive any time soon ).
Meanwhile, take a look at some photos.

Just went through the blog and I must say, i don't think you have enough drones

When I think about it, if I max out all 'fast attack' slots with drones, and add drones to all other possible units in army... I won't have enough Gun Drones.
Ah, well, I guess it is conversion time!


Thanks for following. I'm trying to do and post something every day, as I'm on a tight schedule (I need to finish painting & basing by 1st of October.)

Back on he track, with some RailGun updates.





I didn't waste my time and continued to work on my XV107. The body is completed and satin'ed. The guns are progressing fine, and I expect them to be done tomorrow.


Working on my camera\phone skills and figuring the best settings. Luckily, being a sound tech and working with light techs has it's benefits. I'll get some kick ass light for my light box. Meanwhile, here is one 'group' shot.

Working on the armory today, and making finishing touches.

I look at the cannons, and I can't help thinking they must be lime-flavored. Taste the rainbow, bitches.

 bossfearless wrote:
I look at the cannons, and I can't help thinking they must be lime-flavored. Taste the rainbow, bitches.

I did not think of that.
Thank you, Bossfearless.

No special updates. Just paint stripping / coating models.
I'm getting ready for the new Tau releases. I gonna give myself an allowance of $300 for that.

Beside all the small things happening today, I started working on my 'Shark' Air Patrol Squad.

I'll do my best to pain them today, and assemble the 'bomber unit', but I will have to wait for my magnets to come, in order to magnetize the thing and do the final, satin coat.



Automatically Appended Next Post:
Slow progress is still a progress. Today I took my time between things I had to do and did some detailing on weapon options for my Sharks. I started painting the models as well, but the bulk still needs to be done.


More stuff is on the table, ready to be photographed, but not before I sort out my studio.

Flyer craze pt.1 is done. Two Sharks are fully painted and satin sealed. And I also modified trays so I can fit my DX-4 Remoras on top of my Sharks.
This white looks super awesome, because it breaks the 'stealth electric' feel and announces the death on the horizon.







Tomorrow I should receive my magnets, clear bases and new suitcase (and some more minis), so I won't have time to spare. I'm traveling home in 5 weeks and I need to have everything painted and based and packed. I'm trying to avoid carrying my paint lot with me, as it ads more weight, and I thing that for this edition (after they release new models) I'll be done with Tau for a while. I do have ideas for my next project, which is more fluff based, and which I will try to properly paint and base.

My clear bases from LITKO arrived today. This army is about to get invisible!

Models on clear bases KICK ASS! (Pictures to come)
What I want to show you now is this.


My army came in with BattleFoam PACK 720 bag. It is a good, purpose made bag. But ahead of me is a 5348 miles travel back to Belgrade, Serbia. And for that I need little bit more that a soft-shell bag. I did some research, checked forums, even talked to BF people to see what are the experiences and what is the easiest way to transport bag like that.

They all assured me it is fine to be brought on a plane, but I didn't want to risk it. I invested a lot of time/money and effort into this and I do not want to fail at the last stage. So, I got myself a hard-shell case. It is a SKB iSeries case, with internal dimensions of 22x17x12 inches.

Perfect fot a LARGE battlefoam tray and a codex next to it. With its external dimensions, it lies withing 'airline checked luggage policy (L+W+D=62" or less)'. So all I need is to put a TSA lock on it and check it in and not worry whether they will deny me boarding on a plane because I have a weird bag.





Automatically Appended Next Post:
XV25 battle suit ready!


Don't mind the big guy in the background.

Shas'O R'myr has joined the game!

Learning from my previous encounters with ForgeWorld models, I painted all pieces alone, and then started assembling the model, legs first. And it came out good!





Tomorrow I'm gonna touch up some details and satin the model. Wooohooo! Good Night!

Hey guys,

I'm back. I think I leveled up, as today I started working on my infantry models (and some small HQs).



I spontaneously started painting and it turned out just fine. Unlike all other models (battlesuits, flyers and tanks), for infantry I did not use glitter as a separate layer. So, basecoat and then..
Deep glitter blue, for pants and clothing. Complement of orange and red for comms and armor plates. Lime green for belts and guns. Dark metallic green for 'skin'. Drybrush with pure white.

I still need to work on my dry brushing, but I have a feeling that my Pathfinder squad will be a great work. Plus, clear bases are really making me happy, since I'm getting better and better in 'do not leave glue trail on the base'.



Here you can see Comm. LongStrike, Comm. DarkStrider and Comm. FarEye are discussing about the DropPod, spotted dropping from high orbit just outside the valley rim.

Few more models were completed today. Cadre FireBlade has joined the party, as well as the Fire caste eldar, Shas'ui "DeathBlow"



PathFinder squad is About to be deployed one of the following days (I estimate Saturday morning.)

PathFinder squad is on the table.


Clear bases are ever so mesmerizing! I can't wait to re-base all my models, and finish all the painting.






Also, I'm working on an article about Clear Bases. Just like a personal experience, pointers etc.

A guide to clear bases is coming up shortly.



P.S. As well as some Sniper Teams.

Can we get a few more angles on that heavy Fire Caste guy with the funky twin carbines? I'm intrigued and I may want to borrow some parts of the build.

 bossfearless wrote:
Can we get a few more angles on that heavy Fire Caste guy with the funky twin carbines? I'm intrigued and I may want to borrow some parts of the build.

Coming right up!


Meanwhile, my 200 magnets came in and I decided to implement one of the most ancient technologies available to us. WYSIWYG.


About a 40 minutes later, I had all my XV-8 weapon options ready for painting. In addition to that, all my HammerHead/Devilfish platforms got magnets for Seeker Missiles and my 'Shark' platforms are about to receive a 'Pusle Bomb' upgrade later today. It is about to get real!

Interesting idea putting them on clear bases, care to elaborate the thought process behind the choice?

 Knightley wrote:
Interesting idea putting them on clear bases, care to elaborate the thought process behind the choice?

Well, of course my liege.


I was in and out of the hobby since high school, but never really played the game (WH40K & Fantasy). Only recently I got the time/money/will to make a stronger bond with the hobby. And I decided to go with the Tau army. Huge number of Tau models come on fly bases which are clear. And I didn't like the idea to have mix of models that are on grass or sand and then models that are you 'flying' around. I know. You can base them as well, but I really liked the idea of models that 'blend' into any battlefield.
After seeing some other people placing their models on clear acrylic bases, I gave a deeper thought to whole idea of 'entire army on clear bases'. And after careful consideration, I came out with four major points 'FOR' clear bases.

Point One = It is awesome. My army can blend onto any gaming field and any piece of scenery.

Point Two = I'm still a beginner hobbyist. I know that basic basing is not rocket science, but I wanted my army to be good and complete.

Point Three = I work on remote location and in a few weeks time I'm supposed to fly back home to well deserved vacation, carrying my army. I'm trying to make as little leftovers as possible, due to the fact that I cannot take them home with me.

Point Four = It may be more expensive to buy an acrylic base then to base your model even with the simplest flock, but it takes a bit more time and may create leftovers. And time is something I do not have.

And my Spotters are up and ready for some sniper action!

You can buy glue that does not fog up clear plastic. I suspect you are using super glue and that is why you have the fog. I can't remember the glue type but I used to use it alot for canopies and windows on models. It will eliminate the foggy base anyway.

 Swastakowey wrote:
You can buy glue that does not fog up clear plastic. I suspect you are using super glue and that is why you have the fog. I can't remember the glue type but I used to use it alot for canopies and windows on models. It will eliminate the foggy base anyway.

Yeah, I use super glue.



Here is the Short Guide to Clear Bases. It is 99% complete, with pictures.

What size magnets are you using to do your Battlesuits? I am thinking of magnetizing mine, so I am curious.

Great paint jobs on your stuff, too!

 ZergSmasher wrote:
What size magnets are you using to do your Battlesuits? I am thinking of magnetizing mine, so I am curious.

Great paint jobs on your stuff, too!

Thanks. I have a lot more to do before I roll this army for a proper show-off.


Meanwhile, I use 1/8" diameter, 1/16" depth magnets. It is good, all around magnet. They are strong enough hold any XV-8 size weapon in place. Placing two magnets on an object can hold a Riptide size arm or weapon with no problems. For weapon turrets and bigger models, I recommend going with bigger sized magnets, while trying to keep depth do a minimum. For Tyranids, you might have to go with smaller size, like 3/32" or even 1/16" diameter magnets.

When drilling, I use two drill bits. I use 3/32" first, to make the hole, and then use 1/8" to expand the hole, but I do not go as deep as I did with 3/32". Reason for that is so that I create a small pocket for the glue. I also try to leave magnet in line with the model, or slightly above the model line. Depending on the part you are magnetizing.

One last thing when magnetizing is to make a magnet stick. Just all magnets, forming a stick. Keep your weapon options on one side of the stick, and then models on the other. That way, when you start working, you have smaller chance of missing the proper orientation, and sqr ing up.

Sorry for not posting stuff for the previous two days.


I'm back in program, with MissileSides ReArmed.


The previous owner did not assemble entire Seeker Missile, but rather just glued them to the back of the BroadSides. I dug out the bits, now magnetising and priming, and later durring the day... Painting! Stay in range. More hits are coming your way!



Automatically Appended Next Post:
Missile heads have been armed! Seeker missiles magnetized for some WYSIWYG action.





Automatically Appended Next Post:
Orange needs a second coat!

I needed to take a brake. Painting can be tiresome.


Green is done. Now I go into phase two, where I add power glow, fix the mistakes I made, touch up some details and varnish / base clear. It is gonna be awesome!

How do you find the clear bases and where did you purchase them from? I'm just wondering as I'm tempted to put my daemons on see-through bases but I'm still apprehensive. Nice thread by the way - like the paint scheme.

The most known manufacturer is LITKO. I ordered my bases from them, online. The biggest bases (120x92mm OVAL) are custom made by them as well. They have a really good costumer support, so feel free to shoot them a question or two.

Clear bases are working really good for me. It is a army that wants you to keep it on a table!

The one thing you need to pay attention is which glue you are using for your acrylic bases. Try to find a NON FOGGING glue, or the one that dries CLEAR.

LIFEhack
P.S. Pretty much anybody who is working with acrylic sheets should be able to make you an acrylic base for your minis. If you really want to cheat, you can use regular CDs, just cut them to size.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Teaser for new Tau Commander "Seeker"



Infinite movement range, as long as he is guided by MarkerLight. 100% accuracy, 100% damage!

So,



I stand before you, 4 weeks until I have to pack everything into my suitcases and go home and kick some asses in the Name of Greater Good.



Still a few more things to be done, but I thing I stand good chances. I also need to get down on the Codex, as I haven't played in 6 months / never played Tau before. I did play Marines, but that doesn't exactly count when it comes to Tau.

To bring myself up to speed, I got some things. Like E6000....


And a Scene-A-Rama Ready Grass vinyl mat, for some other project back home, and now for some showoff...

Hey guys,

I'm just about to hit workshop, with hopes to finish another DevilFish. Meanwhile, I made my first army list. For me (inexperienced as I am) TAU are all about boosting each others abilities and making the game plan on army level, not unit or detachment level, while other units just chill around. So I formed this list. While I await for comments from fellow DakkaNauts, off to workshop. I have few more weeks left to go.

I rolled up my gaming field and continued working on my army. To pass my time until GW puts out new models.





The HammerHead on the right needs pain job, but besides that, my tank group is ready for deployment.

Today I managed to do so much more than I originally planed!

I primed 24 FireWarriors.


I magnetised two burst cannons for DevilFish'es.


I gave my XV-8 commander a second chance. I felt kind a bad. I had the miniature, but it was in poor shape.
Broken fingers on one arm, bad balance on the base, poorly glued parts etc.

So, I replaced an arm that had broken fingers, magnetised his weapon suspention points, so he can serve the Greater Good once more. Also, Comm.Farsight that I had became a commissioned work. Friend of mine asked me to sell it to her, as she was looking for a present for her husband. With him gone, my magnetised commander will become my FarSight replacement. I need to find a good shield and I might go for Halberd (something like Necrons have). And to give him full name. So far, he is known as StarDrop.


Also,
I glued 6 out of 10 fingers.
I drilled thru index finger.
I ran out of primer.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
While I was preparing my XV-104 for new base coat, color scheme, my RipTide came apart. Apparently, he wants new oil. Or glue?





Automatically Appended Next Post:
I have to say I'm happy I stripped the paint of that XV-104. The model came apart almost completely.



Well, I cleaned all the parts, probably gonna replace the head, add some more gadgets on the arms and paint the model to the best of my abilities.
This could be the centerpiece of my army, along with my Comm. StarDrop

Until tomorrow...

When I first joined this community, first thread I made was 40K - Forgeworld shipping to USA. I wanted to order stuff, but I wasn't sure how it will work with customs and company mail address etc. But people assured me it will be fine, I placed my order and...



It came in today! I'm so happy right now. Guess who is gonna be busy in the workshop

Commanders have been assigned duties. LongStrike got his ride, and StarDrop is awaiting for finishing touches and nice see-thru base.




More updates coming after I have my 8 hours of rest. To prepare my 1st level painting spells!

If a cluttered desk is a sign of a cluttered mind, ah well. I guess they are right.


Small steps, touch ups here and there, working on my riptide and finishing tanks.

TIDE-ing the RIP.





Tanks are 'seeker missiles' away from being done. Tomorrow I'll probably go into assembling the new models.

Few shots of fully loaded and battle ready HammerHead.





The Tank Crew guy will be my proxy for Eternal, as I didn't get one just yet. On the other hand, I have a good fluff story for my army and him being the way he is will fit just right.




RipTide is also done. Right now I'm enjoying my after-dinner break and thinking what to do next? I have 24 FireWarriors that might be a COMPULSORY step to completion of my army.
Thanks for stopping by.



Automatically Appended Next Post:
RipTide is here. I like that fact that it pretty much dissasembled itself while I was striping paint. It gave me more control over what and how I want to paint, and less mess to clean up, as I could work on part itself.




It is a magnificent piece. Can't wait for GW to release fresh stuff.

My Remora Squad is up and running. 4 pieces. Death from the skies!





Group shots coming shortly.

Remoras have been completed last night, but today I gave them storage slots in my Cadre Suitcase Transport StarShip.






And pushed my Tetras into painting process, after assembly, mold line removal and wash.

Here they are. Tetras are up and running.

But first, the making of:






And now the MarkerLight on top!






Automatically Appended Next Post:
I have realized that I've been dropping pictures without any comments.

I spend around 4-6 hours a day in workshop, racing to finish painting of SkyLight Patrol. I'm doing pretty good. 6x XV8, 4x XV9, about 24 gun drones to go. Today I also managed to power up my workbench. The batteries in the drive for height adjustment were dead. So, got fresh ones, charged them and the green light came on. I also cleaned the stuff, as resin dust started to pile up in the corners.

Besides that, I was thinking about doing another article. Magnetizing Tau. What to magnetize and how to do it. Different weapon options, WYSIWYG with seeker missiles, ways for safer storage etc. MOst of the models I currently own are magnetised, and with the new releases I think this article just might do.

Lastly, I'm gathering stuff to write a full story about the SkyLight Patrol Cadre, including important characters, moments from the past, reasoning behind certain models, supplemented by the battle log (and battle reps). Ten more days until I hit the tabletop once again.


Thanks for following.

Hey StarDrop, long time no see. Wondered if you're going to get the storm surge?

 Da Stormlord wrote:
Hey StarDrop, long time no see. Wondered if you're going to get the storm surge?

Hey, hey. Long time no see indeed. I'm spending way to many hours in workshop these days, racing to finish everything and prepare for my transfer to Ke'lshan. I keep writing bits and pieces for next chapter for your army story, but also keep falling a sleep before I can put it together.

Yes, I'll get myself KV-128. I've put some money aside, in order to get all of the new Tau toys. Hopefully, Santa Claus will bring me a KX-139 Ta'unar (if I win enough battles. xD) Which means more BattleFoam and probably another SKB case.


Meanwhile..
"Assebmle the Troops!"

TX-42's are on the way.
Fully painted and almost fully assembled as well.

Here is the propper way to assemble a TX-42.









Right now, I'm working on my XV-9's, and weapons arsenal for XV-8 suits. It's gonna be a long night!



Automatically Appended Next Post:
I couldn't resist to assemble my TX-es.




And now, may I present to you SkyLight Patrol Cadre Fast Attack Support Group.

Ok, thanks man. I only asked to see if I was the only one wanting to buy one. I want something bigger than a riptide that can counter ny friends space wolf themed knight

You still continue to astound me with your painting

TBH, I wanted to get myself a decent army, with nice choice of models. I didn't limit myself with points value or particular style/competitive/resale whatever value. And yes, I like the StormSurge.
As it stands right now, I have about 4000pts. worth of models. I expected that to grow up in the upcoming weeks.


I just realised that I have few hours to spare before my flight home. I might jump to newly open GW store in Orlando to pickup some new stuff if they have it in stock.



Automatically Appended Next Post:

 Da Stormlord wrote:
You still continue to astound me with your painting

Thanks. Although, I have more to learn. Washing, dry brushing, to actually use more proper colors (not glitter paint and then just do the details.) In time my friend I will be good. For now, WIP pictures of my XV-9's. Those are some pretty bad ass suits!

My replacement (technician who is taking over the venue from me) is here for few days now, which resulted in me having less time to paint and complete my cadre.

However, I did complete some aerial work. Checking my PA, replacing two broken drivers, cleaning the dust off. Casual morning.


And some work on my XV-8's. Also, I will be converting some leftover drones into Heavy Gun drones, just for fun of trying to include them with some units. Hopefully, that was one of the changes they brought in new codex. (Ability to take any (extended choise) of drones with your squad.) Why FireWarriors, or Breachers could not use Heavy Gun drones, instead of regular gun drones?


I present you the GHOST suit...

Frenzy is about to kick in. I have a bunch of small, random things to accomplish before I set off back to Serbia. I have to pack as well. And do a photoshoot with my Cadre.
I was hoping my SKB suitcase is big enough to put a BattleFoam 720 bag inside... "Hope is the first step on the road to disappointment." And so it was. Not that I could not put it in at all, but in all those attempts I knocked off my trackpad and cracked the corner. I put a bit of e-6000, hoping to seal everything and even up the surface. So far, it looks like it is gonna hold.




So close to finish, yet so far away.

Speed, give me what I need....


And in all that mayhem, I decided to make some 'fridge magnets' for my roommate. So I've wrote down some of our quotes, internal jokes etc., and all of a sudden came idea to assemble one more XV-8, or at least the front half of it and attach it to the magnet.





So far, I have laid down the primer, glitter is next, and then the individual body parts. I also got a better (proper) camera, and did some random shoots with it. Later on I'll bring two MAC250 washes into the workshop, to see how will they light the room. Tomorrow morning I'll do the shooting and final packaging.





Automatically Appended Next Post:
Present for my roommate is complete. Better to say, all nine of them, spearheaded by commander DartMouth.

Boys and girls, gamers and hobbyist from around the globe...

I have reached my goal. Ke'lshan's 6th SkyLight Patrol Cadre is now fully operational. In 85 days, working on a remote location (cruise ship), I have assembled, magnetized and painted this 4500 points Tau detachment that will make a statement on a tabletop. I'm embarking on an epic journey!

I'm signing off the ship today and going home for a well deserved vacation. But, I did not forget about my promise to

Da Stormlord

and

bossfrealess

, I got myself some lights, some bad ass Nicon 5D with variety of lenses and put my whole army for some proper photo shoot.


This is just a teaser. More (should I say all) pictures will pe posted in a day or two. Until than, enjoy the sampler...


And do not worry. I have set aside some money, to get myself new Tau models when the time comes. And the time is now!
^_^

Finally,



I'm home, my stuff is unpacked and my colors sorted. The trip went fine, and majority of my Patrol Cadre came in one piece. I sad majority.




Few other models got some minor damage and that was fixed right away. My greatest concern right now is how to make better support for these guys. The broadside (since it is an old model) will get a flying stick up the ass. The R'Varna is a bit tougher fix. I'm thinking about drilling two holes in it's legs and making support braces going thru ankles . Also, I'll probably add two exterior support points. Hopefully that does the trick.

One last thing is this.
Dark Elf Chariot. Friend of mine got this as a birthday present ages ago... And he gave it to me last year to kinda work on it (since I got back into the hobby). So I decided to assemble it, turn it into a diorama and ship it back to him.

Right now, I'm about to get some Cold One Nights, to finish the chariot and to mount all of that on a scenic piece. We'll see how it goes.

Ever since I went for vacation, I did minor things around my army. Until today. I rolled out to the battlefield and did two 1850 points battles. One loss and one draw. Tomorrow (or should I say today) I will do the same again.

With better score, I hope.

But, I did minor work on my army as well.

My XV8 commander received a gift. It is a alien made halberd, intended to allow him to transform into a FarSight model on demand.



My Sniper drones, after realising that models are pretty funky to assemble/hold on flying stand got a little bit of magnets. Now their setup is so much easier and fun.


I did get some Cold Ones for my Dark Elf diorama, but new models... I'm gonna try to find some old ones. If not, the new ones will have to do.


Cheers,

Good work, I really liked your colour scheme, I've never seen anything like it before. I dont really do much painting and stuff, in 85 days id maybe do my broadsides XD

 Da Stormlord wrote:
Good work, I really liked your colour scheme, I've never seen anything like it before. I dont really do much painting and stuff, in 85 days id maybe do my broadsides XD

Thanks Da Stormlord. I'll continue with the paint scheme with the new models. They were due next week, but there was a shipping delay, so... Two weeks from now. Including the TideWall Rampart.
To cut my time short, I went back to the desk, and continued working and improving my Patrol Cadre.

Commander StarDrop was removed from his generic base and put on a flying base, same as all other XV-8 suits. The posture is better. Also, his halberd got primed, so I expect to finish it in a next few days.


The few drones that didn't get the paint in that 85 days period got it today. Made an assembly line while waiting for tables to be available. There was a WarMachine tournament. If they continue like that, I think all models I currently own will be completely done by the time tables get cleared.


Lastly, I added a new member to my paint range. Say hello to FLASH GITZ YELLOW. A really nice yellow, that complements my neons.



Automatically Appended Next Post:
So, after todays kickstart at FLGS, I got urge to try and complete that Dark Elf Chariot.




I really wanted it to become a proper diorama, but could not find suitable models. I was looking for Cold One riders, but the old models, with the fat Cold One. However, few players in Serbia have them, and even less actually want to sell them. So, I made my mind and continued with my work.

I did visual inspection of the chariot itself, and started adding drybrush details that I didn't do 8 months ago.



I also put a lot of work into the Cold Ones. And got them to a point were I was comfortable looking at them. (tired looking at them ) And moved to the last section. The base.


I used a regular 120*90mm GW base that I stripped from my Tau army. Got a nice amount of glue, with a good spread and landed the flock. Layer one, at least. My next thing was to position the Cold Ones and flock a second layer, to make sure they 'stick' into the ground.


Once they were dry, I put the glue onto the chariot wheels and put that on the base as well. Now it started resembling a nice tabletop model. BUt the flock work was not done.


The last thing was decoration. I cut pieces of old paintbrush and started sticking them into the flock, to make some bushy steppe feel about it. I landed one just under the wheel. One mas made spread, like somebody just stepped into it. Few other spread around the base. One glued into DarkStrider base, that became a lonely piece of rock few feet away from the chariot. Lastly, behind the wheels, I dragged a line, to mark where the wheels passed and sprayed some medium sized sand to 'reveal' a land under the steppe grass.


And then left the thing to dry.
It's gonna be awesome!

Harbinger of Ghornd ride again!



Minor touch-ups today completed my mini display.

You can see the whole thing here.

All right... It is time to gear up with all new Tau models.




I may not be up with the speed of getting these (since there is no GW dedicated store in Serbia) but I'll get them onto the battlefield.


I felt kinda bad for not writing here every day, but then I realised. I'm no longer on the ship. I have other things to do, places to be and time to lose while commuting around. On the ship, everything was close and kinda boring.
I'm hoping I'll get a fresh batch of paints, so I can start working on these models. And maybe some fresh oval acrylic bases for StormSurge and GhostKeel.

The TideWall Rampart kit is pretty easy and fun to assemble. Big pieces, nicely designed model. But be advised!!!
There are extra parts, so don't go around and assemble at random. Check the number of pieces you need and assemble them carefully.


A particular case is that 'gunport' control dashboard is located on gunport sprue, but the dashboard bottom is generic and located on shieldline sprue.

Here are few WIP pictures. DronePort and GunPort need painting and final assembly. ShieldLine is pretty much done.

Like that Tidewall stuff! Can't wait 'til its finished, awesome work! I'll enjoy watching your progress on your other new Tau models too, as I am getting a Ghostkeel and possibly a Stormsurge in the near future. It might be helpful to watch someone else do theirs before I tackle mine!

 ZergSmasher wrote:
Like that Tidewall stuff! Can't wait 'til its finished, awesome work! I'll enjoy watching your progress on your other new Tau models too, as I am getting a Ghostkeel and possibly a Stormsurge in the near future. It might be helpful to watch someone else do theirs before I tackle mine!

Unfortunately, I won't be much of a help except for the TideWall. I'm leaving for Asia and I most likely won't be taking any models with me. The Cadre will have to wait for my return!


My TideWall is pretty much done. Few more details and places to fix, for my own enjoyment. On the other hand, I've put the thing on the battlefield. And ran into a problem. It is fairly big and will be hard to operate.
I've jumped on one of the tables at my FLGS and put the TideWall up. Just like on the box. Gunring in the middle, drone port and command port on the opposite ends of the shield lines. I've used all three deployment methods and it was really hard to fit the whole thing in. Not to mention that some pieces had ZERO degrees of view.







Once you actually start your own game, during battlefield setup, you will definitely place the terrain pieces as best as possible to maximise your view field. Also, the TideWall Rampart allows you to field some elements in proximity of the shield lines (6"), so there are options to utilise your deployment zone and protect your big guns. As much as this Fortification trew Tau to the top of the OP lists, I estimate we won't be seeing too much of Ramparts around.
Some other Fortification options are interesting, but I don't see them as useful and complete as this one. Hopefully I will post a battle report on Sunday.

Hey guys,

sorry for not posting for a while now. I'm back on the ship, this time in Asia, cruising around the North China Sea.

I decided to bring my un-assembled models, so I can get them together and paint them and make sure they hit the table as soon as I go back home. In Mother*ucking June.




Anyway, GhostKeel is ready for painting.


I'm also working on updating my MAGNETIZING Tau article, with the new models.
Talking about new models, FLGS gave me a discount for old tau models, so I got myself some moar troops!




I'll be posting more updates, might even go on land to play a game in Japan or Hong Kong.
Cheers,

Sorry to hear it'll be June before we get to see more painted stuff. Still, its pretty cool that you can still assemble stuff while you are at sea. Hope you can get some games over there!

Good luck to you, and thank you for your service!

 ZergSmasher wrote:
Sorry to hear it'll be June before we get to see more painted stuff. Still, its pretty cool that you can still assemble stuff while you are at sea. Hope you can get some games over there!

Good luck to you, and thank you for your service!

Thank you fine Sir. Please allow me to correct myself.
Since I did bring models on board, I intent to assemble, magnetize, paint and base them... And get them into action as soon as I hit Serbia again.


So, from this page on we'll be looking into expanded forces of 6th SkyLight Patrol Contingent!

At the moment, I'm pretty much done with my XV-8's (old models), and ready for primer. However, I did clamp them down during the assembly. Just to give them that 'Iridium' armour feel.




Also, my weaponry is undergoing some changes. I've counted all my weapons , just to make sure they have magnets of appropriate sides. Also, with these suits, I've decided to try and magnetize some other points (under the arm, instead of the side), so I'll be adding that to my "Magnetizing Tau" article.


I do have few things to assemble, until my order arrives.
Hopefully, some Barracudas and TigerSharks, as well as few more HammerHeads, some special characters and maybe... TAU'NAR! I said maybe. Depends how I go with my flyers...

So, working on my Contigent day by day...


I located a GW store in Shanghai, so I may pay them a visit in a week or two. Get a Retaliation Cadre, A Gunport and Farsight Cards. Meanwhile, I need to finish magnetizing my models and prep them for painting.

Also, with the new models on the table, I have chance to update and redo my "magnetizing Tau" article.

Sorry for being absent for a while... I have been quite busy. I advanced my position in my company, so i have a bit more work to do, but that is why I appreciate my free time more and dedicate it to finishing my Patrol Contingent.

In addition to that, I've been also super busy bidding on Ebay. I got quite a few models to enhance and complete my Tau army. I'm almost there. Few more thing and I will probably stop buying Tau. Just because it doesn't go with my fluff. Like StormSurge for example. I didn't make a single list with it so far. I'm thinking about returning it home and selling it....
:/
One thing that does follow my fluff story is my Air Element. Two OOP Barracudas and a TigerShark AX-1-0 have just landed in my possession.



Accompanying them are three Air Caste members, that will become new Objective markers...



One last thing that happend is that.. I've decided to start another army. Choice fell down on Necrons. I found few lots that were affordable and assembled. So I got them. It will be some time before they reach me here in Asia. Hopefully I'll be done with my suits and Tau.. So I can start my Necron planax.

Ooooh, necrons I hear. Could you give us a few spoilers for the paint scheme? Mine are just the standard with red shoulder pads and some gold on HQs and vehichles

 Da Stormlord wrote:
Ooooh, necrons I hear. Could you give us a few spoilers for the paint scheme? Mine are just the standard with red shoulder pads and some gold on HQs and vehichles

Well, I ordered 150 Orange Neon Rods for my troops and conversions. I'm aiming at some bone themed army. I'm still developing the fluff story behind it, but general plot is:
"Eternal Planax" - Tried to use the gate shortly after the Old Ones gave them eternal bodies.... But the gate malfunctioned and is keeping them in it's 'transfer matrix'... Bouncing them across the galaxy for ages to come.
Due to constant shifting thru space and time, they lost all of their sanity and now they only march forward...

I have no fliers in my army. But I'll have some FW stuff....

Gentlemen, welcome to the new era in my Hobby.

The Eternal Phlanax is here!

This past weekend in mail came the foundation of my Phalax.


Triarch Stalker; Two sets of Canoptek Wraiths, Two Canoptek Spiders, Three sets of Immortals, Deciever and Nightbringer C'tan Shards, Flyed Ones, few Destroyers, Illuminor, Stormlord, Overlord, Destroyer Lord upgrade, Triarch Praetorians, one set of Warriors and one Ghost Ark.

With it, came a set of 3rd party objective markers. Thoughts?


On the way are the two Battleforces and some ForgeWorld stuff. This will be a nice build.
^_^

While I'm waiting for my Necron stuff to arrive, I'm working on my final Tau bits.


I haven't got time to paint my weapons, so I'm doing it now. I kind-a knew that I'll buy more suits.


With that, Suits are also on the assembly line.


Something that is hot of the press is the Barracuda.


Next in line is the TigerShark AX-1-0. It suffered some damage on the wings and cockpit, so I'm working on sealing all that and making it ready for the basecoat and painting.


Air Caste Engineers done a great job with sealing their cockpit. While they let the sealant to dry, they did some 'kitbashing' and are up by four heavy gun drones.





Lastly, my paint range has been updated. The entire 6th Patrol Contingent was painted using only 8 colors and handful of tools.


Eternal Phlanax recieved a full batch of colors today.


Fun times are ahead of me!


Xie xie for your time.

My Tau Flyers are up and flying, doing test runs around my cabin.


The TigerShark will receive a full compliment of new power lines. Right now, only the engines are running. You can see Barracuda wing-manning the initial flights.



I believe that I did an acceptable job on covering up that cockpit damage I showed you earlier.




Lastly, I received a NIB Skyray. I need a good ground support for my Patrol Contingent.


It's going to be really really good!

Let me kick off with some Tau first.


My TigerShark is almost done. When I say almost, I mean that extension wings and gun turrets need to be done and mounted. I'll paint them here, but probably wait till I get home to glue them on, as I don't want them to get damaged in transport.


And now for the new things.
Today in mail I got 121 custom made neon red rods, for my Necrons. The order was 150 pieces, so I contacted the manufacturer and asked to ship the rest. Says he'll do it asap. Meanwhile, take a look for yourself.



The rods look pretty good as standalone. I believe they will look good on the models as well. If you are interested, here is a link to Ebay page . The guy makes few other colors and also replacements for MONOLITH, which is pretty awesome!

The other thing that I wanted to show you is ChapterHouse Necron compatible defense turret. Follows the Aegis rules and is inspired by the Dawn Of War Necron Weapon Turret.


Entire piece is cast in really good resin and it comes with custom made green (or blue) rods and diamond. Rods and diamond actually have texture to them.



It can be assembled with three different options, or even magnetized for your convenience. Follow the thread and expect updates in the following days.

It is getting hard to manage my hobby time these days. I'm making an amazing progress, if we consider that my team is two man down and that I have to work extended hours in order to cover for everything.
Anyway, I'm back to my Tau. I'm running an XV-8 production line and hoping to finish all 15 suits!








Hands and shoulder pads are also done, but I forgot to take photos, so... Once I actually put them together. I'm thinking about getting a batch of new shoulder pads and equipping all my suits.


On the other hand, Necrons are slowly crawling....
Slowly because they are slow, but mainly because the new paint lot that I have may not be the most suitable for the army I'm building. I did some initial tests on those 'objective markers' and results were not pretty. But, I think I can blame that on the fact that those cubes have texture to them.



This ChapterHouse made Aegis turret is actually super fine... I have also ordered over 150 resin cast bases for the army, all from SecretWeaponMiniatures. And about to finish with lot of destroyers. That will be the last shopping for this army. Hopefully, everything will get on board in time for me to finish the whole project before I head back home.



Also, I've got orange neon rods. They do look really good!




Stay tuned. It is about to get real!!!

Hey guys,

I have a good news. Excellent news!!!

I'm able to access Dakka Dakka from company computer. So, expect daily updates.





I finished my first SkyRay, as well as bunch of drones. In addition to them, I converted 4 Gun drones into Heavy Gun drones.




My XV8 production line is amazing and nearing the end. Almost all pieces have been painted and the fresh supply of clear Acrylic bases from LITKO came in today. So, by Sunday I should have all my EastBound suits ready to roll!

Secondly, few more boxes of Necrons before I have everyting piled up and ready to 'complete'. I have just under 3 months to do EVERYTHING. Wish me luck!



Automatically Appended Next Post:
Sneakpeak!




Expect some updates tomorrow!

Production line is going smooth.



Pathfinder squad is undertaking their costume change from pure gray to GALAXY DISCO technicolor.


Also, some drones have been assembled and primed and will be done with the Pathfinders. Included with the Pathfinders is the Third Party model. And it is a female.

More updates tomorrow, once I actually paint everything (right now, you can barely see what the model actually looks like.)

Pathfinders are done!



Painted and based and ready to embark back to Ke'lshan Prime.



I did some mix and match of pieces, to get different combinations to those I already have. Here are some details.


Guy with a gun:


Guy with a binoculars:


"Can't talk right now honey. I'm in a middle of something" guy:


The bomber:


"I do have a gun too!" guy:


And lastly, a third party model (can be found on Wargame Exclusive)
A female Shas'ui.

XV-8's are done and done!

Here are all EastBound drones...
Well, all. I'm missing a recon drone that is now being assembled by my Pathfinder squad.




Once I finish commanders (tomorrow), that will conclude the main force of the EastBound Patrol Cadre. From that point on, I will wait for reinforcements from Ke'lshan Prime. Another SkyRay and a GunRing...


P.S. I decided not to assemble my StormSurge. I'll have problem with getting it home.. And it doesn't fit my fluff so far. But, who knows... ETC is coming.

 StarDrop wrote:

You can check the work gallery here, and on this thread starting page 4. Full Eternal Phlanax is on the horison!

Ah very cool! Could you tell me where these are from / what the brand is?

 RiTides wrote:

 StarDrop wrote:

You can check the work gallery here, and on this thread starting page 4. Full Eternal Phlanax is on the horison!

Ah very cool! Could you tell me where these are from / what the brand is?

This is a 3D print, made by Horizon Creation 3D . I stumbled upon them on Ebay and decided to get a set of these as objective markers.
Being a 3D print, they do have texture to them, which can be sanded off if needed. I kept my in original shape.

I also ordered a set of Tyranid terrain as a gift for a friend of mine. Once that comes in, I'll post pictures as well.



Automatically Appended Next Post:
Last year, I had a workshop setup in one of the technical spaces around the ship.
This year, I have to do it in my cabin. Just because I don't have a workshop setup on the ship as of yet. But that didn't prevent me from making mess.


Mess that completed another run of my XV8 suits. I expect a XV84 and maybe few Broadsides, but all EastBound models (that I brought from home with me) are now done.

I'll make a fine photo session soon. Until then, enjoy the suits....

I haven't really worked on my Necrons. Mostly due to the fact that the paint set that I currently have will not do the job. The paints have super high pigment content and water is unable to smooth it enough to what I need it for. I mean, I could do with them, if I didn't knew better and had wish to do better.

Here are some warrior test pictures...





The 'purple' only looks purple under the flash. In real life, it is super gray. On bigger, more detailed models I'll introduce some copper and brass. We'll see how this goes...
I'm tempted to buy another army of Ebay... But having my Necrons still in phase one and needing to revite my jaw (teeth), I think I'll wait for a next offer.

Okay!


I'm back on the track. I had a very long month of May, with a cast changeover in the theater I work and being understaffed in the whole facility (1300ppl theatre, 600ppl secondary venue and smaller, overflow places), with only 4 technicians (including me) to cover everyday activities.


But I managed to pick up three new broadsides and Y'varha. I got them sub-assembled and primed. I also have pictures, but I'll get them here as soon as I transfer them from my phone. I'm also super excited about new Flyer rules and opportunity to use all my Tau goodies.


Lastly, my company's mail service screwed me over and forwarded my GW order to my current site. Which I will leave before the mail reaches me. Let's say I'm pretty angry about that, because it holds certain items I wanted to take with me to ETC2016 in Athens in August...


Thanks for watching. Pictures to follow!

What is hip?




My Broadsides are up and running. With plasma rifles nearly completed, I'll have a three new broadsides ready for deployment. Also, I got hold of two more FW broadsides, which will complete my Retaliation Cadre XV-88 choice.



Also, my XV-84 Commander suit came in few days ago. As you know, FW kits at the time were based of the 'old' XV-8 design. But I test fitted some of the parts to the new XV-8 and I might end up buying one more set of new XV-8's. I do love the looks and the feel of the new suits.




Lastly, there were some movements on the Horisont, spotted by my Pathfinders. Apparently, A female Necron Overlord and three Cryptek's managed to teleport a set of Secret Weapon bases came to base my new Necron Army.

New EastBound Patrol Cadre....

I decided to use the fact that my uncle lives in Croatia to apply and take participation in upcoming Agram Arena 2016.

I've been working on the list for a while and I came up with pretty interesting FE 1850 list.

Army is almost ready, mostly because I need to complete my drones and my objective markers. As well as some fresh stuff.


Last of the Drones are on the table, ready to be assembled and painted.
And I'll use my Air Caste crew to 'color up' my objective markers. Should be fine.


This Getting Started Tau box is an amazing package. Gave me everything I wanted to get to round up my army.



Expect updates. I only have week and a half to get myself ready for this.
^_^

So....
StarForge is working with it's full capacity. I denied a festival gig, so I could finish work on my teeth and prepare for the Tournament. I have quite a few things to finish.


I played a 3 turn test game two days ago, against a very strong DeathStar. Needles to say I got smashed, but I tried what I wanted and succeeded. How much pounding I can take and how well I can DeepStrike. Regardless of the dice, I did a pretty good job. After the game, while discussing with my opponent, I got some ideas on how to squeeze even more firepower into my list, while retaining functionality and general science. I'm about to hit my FLGS again and do another game. Let's see how modifications work?
[url=http://www.dakkadakka.com/gallery/811518-Army%2C%20Empire%2C%20Neon%2C%20Tau%2C%20Tron%2C%20Warhammer%2040%2C000%2C%20Work%20In%20Progress.html]
[/url]

Yesterday I retrieved 15 foam bricks, in order to crate a custom foam for this 1850 army and for that to fit into my small suitcase. So far, it look promising. Each tray can hold 3 suits and 6-8 drones. Riptide tray will hold only riptide (Capt. Obvious), while Pathfinder tray can hold 15 dudes with no problem.



Lastly, objective markers are under way. I practised transfer positioning onto the bases, just to I could paint the shape over it. Once 'flooring' is done, I'll lacquer it, and proceed to adding actual elements on the base. Drone hat, with number, a AirCaste member or some other Tau bits and flock. Won't necessarily match the rest of the army, but will be distinct enough.

My Objective Markers are coming along nice.


I had to prime one of the markers, due to the fact that I used only 5 colors on my army and that color that I wanted to add didn't turn our good. Which reminded me.. I used the wrong color. I should have used yellow, as I have some yellow details, mostly on eyes and antennas. I'll have to change that later!!!

Objective Markers are done, as promised.










Now to my army, to finish what I need for the tourney and touchup some models. First in line, the Drone Blob.


Tomorrow I expect to complete my missile drones and to check my broadsides. And to play few more games. And to complete my tactica book for the tourney.
Woohoo, stay tuned and thanks for checking out.

All missile drones are complete, including all the Broadsides.

I have to say I'm happy how they are turning out. I started adding 'gloss over some details and it looks really nice.




And to complete my Area Control Cadre, I'm working on my XV8 suits.
Suits like suits are done, but weapons are far from done. 8 plasma guns and 8 Fusion Blasters. Luckily, I have my magnifying glass to help me out!!!



I'll post some more pics of the entire force once completed. In the meantime, I'm going back to my articles to try and complete them, now when I have collected more knowledge on "HowTto Magnetize Tau".

Did I tell you that my Drone Sentry team is pretty much done?

It started like this.


Then moved on to this.


And now it looks like this:


Next on the tabletop are two StormSurges. I'm doing sub assembly as we speak, so I'll post some more photos later.

So guys and girls,

After few months of 'silence', the Forge is operational again. I have a lot of things going your way in terms of my Tau army. It is coming to it's third sphere of expansion, featuring some additional models, bits and models to make conversions and to round up center pieces of my army. I have also put a order for some Tau terrain. I want to make a good home to my Contingent.

I'm right now sailing out of Bayonne, NJ. Going to the Caribbean. So I'll use my time to strip all the mold lines and prepare my models for assembly. I won't be doing any painting, as all my funds are allocated toward redoing roof on my family house.


I know you may not be able to read Serbian, but you will recognize words like "Kotobukiya", Barracuda, Hirts Arts, Horizon 3D etc.


To kick off this third sphere expansion, here are some sampler pictures of DreamSpirit Wargaming studio terrain that I have commissioned. Mine will come primed all black, so I can add various bits and pieces to make this terrain a part of my army and put down my color scheme.




I'll be getting a set of Horizon Creation 3D generators and towers to complement this base. Lastly, I'm looking into Micro Art Studio stuff to round it all up. Budget is tight. So, I'll see about that.

Thank you for following this 'blog'. I'll be back in a few days, with new models that I have acquired over the summer.

Along the first and second sphere of my army's expansion, I always finished all my models. Everything was built, magnetized, painted and based.


The Third Sphere of Expansion has brought me a lot of models, which I had no time to assemble or complete in any way.




Remember how I said I might be selling my StormSurge... Well, I might have changed my mind. It was an impulse buy....


Not just that. I have more troops, few more Hammerheads, some more suits... And the newly commissioned terrain and bits.

Today I started going thru my suitcase. As I recently moved cabins, I ended up with less space and had to store some of my models under the bed.
But now...


I have started pulling them out, removing from sprues and storing into my work box (same as the one I had on Quantum). Also, following my eBay account, soon I should be getting a ton of different bits and pieces, crowned by Red Dog Minis conversions Banners.

One bad news is that... I dock in Port Canaveral again, meaning I have access to Michael's Arts and Crafts store. That means I might venture out and get some more hobby supplies.


First up are my 6 XV88-2's, and Grim Skull Minis (Wargame Exclusive) models.

Well ...

I've started putting everything into my work box. I might wash everything and maybe do some sub assembly, before I head home. This includes both Necron and Tau stuff.
For now, I'm enjoying 270. A beautiful venue onboard Royal's Quantum Class ships.



Lot's of sunshine, relaxing environment and quality time. Also, two days from now I'll be getting another Tau Skyray. This one will most likely become my conversion project, as I'm planning on making it a command vehicle.

Did I tell you I'm making my way thru my sprues?





Well, soon enough I will have to acquire a second project box and probably move all my necron stuff in there, and leave Tau in the current box. More bitz are on the way.

The project box is full. So, I'll split my Necrons from my Tau. A lot of bits are in already, all of them planned for something.


On the other hand, I'm working on some models made by Horizon Creation 3D. Mr. Curtis did some great prints and I'm happy to announce that I'll be getting some more, to complete my Tau battlefield.




Happy Gaming!

Hi guy,

really quick update. I got some parts for conversion and addition to my Tau.



Flags and banners are by: Red Dog Minis They are really nice and light (and small), and they will fit on any of your Breacher, Strike or PathFinder teams.
I do plan putting few of these on my XV8 (and maybe XV88 teams)
The turrets and hatches are just regular HammerHead pieces, which I will use to add detail to my terrain commission, once it is ready for pickup.
Lastly, a pack of magnets, to finish my remaining suits. I did magnetize the cannons on StormSurges, but it didn't work (for some reason). So, I guess I'll be green stuffing those guys and putting some stronger magnets. (or maybe just striking the magnets and leaving the 'barrel' piece interchangeable).

On the other hand, I'm going thru my articles and updating text and some photos.


Thanks for watching. I know this is not much, but I'm away from my Cadre (and most of my tools.)

Just a quick update.

Tau Gunring just came off the sprue and will be added to my TideWall Rampart. Can't wait to get it complete and put to the Higher Good (and my new base & terrain features.)


Also, I have ordered some more Horizon Creation 3D stuff, Tau ofc. And that should complete my Tau outpost. I don't plan to finish everything until the end of the year (conversion, modification, painting and adding to the terrain)

Priority is now given to the Necrotyr, ever growing army of immortal warriors. Right now, a software update is under way.

These Monoliths will soon be powered up.

Fellow gamers, I wish to you a Happy Christmas!

To all of you who are with your families, leave the hobby for a day and rejoice with them.
To all of us who are away from families, dig in to the hobby as it is our family now.



Now, as I am away from my family, I will show you some upgrade parts I have received from Santa the day before. First up, long time ago, somewhere on page 1, Mr.bossfearless made comment how I should look into some Gundam kits for my Riptides. Here I am, 2 years later, with my first Kotobukiya set, intended for my Riptide commander suit.


This particular kit gives me two (or three) burst cannons and a High Yield Missile pod. Size-wise they are a bit bigger than regular GW stuff, which is fine. I intend to use this parts on my centerpieces and I need that accent to be obvious. The missile pod will most likely end up on one of my command vehicles, or maybe on some Broadside commander. I'll keeping you updated.



Next up, we have a nice little package from Death Ray Design. I ordered a 3 different sets of command consoles and posts for my Tau terrain. 2x Necropolis Control Station, 2x Screen wall and a set of 9 terminals.


These MDF / Acrylic pieces so far look amazing and I cannot wait to incorporate them. Thing worth mentioning is that the Necropolis piece comes with little acrylic orbs, that go into the slots on the board itself. And here is an 'assembled' terminal.


Lastly, I was fortunate enough to win this ebay auction and get myself ...


All pieces are individual and will allow me to remove mould lines, wash them and paint them when the time comes. Also, these models are intended for conversion to AX-6-2 Assassin platform, which did not got into standard production during the first sphere expansion but is still seen on the patrol posts. Also, rail guns will be mounted on my Area Denial Node.


That's it from me now. Expect more things to come in the following days.

So, I took some time to work on the new stuff that arrived in the past few weeks. My second bits box is here, so I can actually work on new things.



One of them, being my two AX-5-2 Barracuda jets. Such a beautiful model. And easy to work with. I'm slowly working my way thru mold lines and model itself. Then I'll be magnetizing the accessories (main gun and wing turrets) and packing away so it is ready to go home with me.



I took a break from that, just to assemble my new guns. Intended for my Riptide suits and for my Hammerhead conversions.
My GOD , those kits are so good and will blend with Riptides perfectly. The twin linked burst cannons will be mounted on my XV109. Some amount of green stuff will be needed, to complete the body assembly and expansion holes that are on the models. Pieces are snap fit, but I do recommend using Citadel glue to make the joints strong and battle ready.



The Heavy Burst will be on my 'Prime Riptide', as well as the new smart missile system.




The Heavy Missile pod will most probably mounted on my Forgeworld turret, and used for my command vehicle. Or mounted on some sort of a turret for base defense.



I'll probably assemble the Smart Missile system tomorrow, just so I can do size comparison and make sure it 'done' until I go home.

Thanks for watching.

Hi peeps,

sorry for keeping you in the dark for two weeks now. I had a lot of work around NYE and with few other events that came after. Plus, I was kinda waiting for... THIS!

Horizon Creation 3D got me some Tau terrain. I got two generators, two relay towers and 4 power cells. Enough to make quite a few combinations with my pieces that have been made by Dream Spirit WarGaming Studio . I'm also thinking about some rules and data sheets, to match the 8th edition.



And what is better than ONE generator... Are TWO generators.



Once relayed, you can make a good LOS scenery that doesn't have to be tall or bulky. Just nice.



Also, my stuff from Grim Sull Miniatures came in today. Since I'm trying to incorporate more of my ShadowSun and XV25 models into my lists, this fella' will come pretty handy.


And, since I'm hoping to participate in ETC2017 in Salamanca, Spain... Some Necron conversion parts, again from Grim Sull Miniatures should suffice my need for versatility. 20 female bodies.


That is it for now. I'm hoping to continue to work on my Barracudas thru the next week.
^_^

Cheers.

Great news folks.
The buildings that I commissioned from DreamSpirit Wargaming Studio are done and ready for shipping. I asked for unpainted buildings, due to specific nature of my army and due to the fact that I will further customize all buildings you are about to see.

First up, we have Kanyon HQ.





It will be my first building to start working on, as I have already developed a plan of what I want to add to the model and how I want it to look. I also have idea about some house rules, in order to field this as a part of my army. Before the rules, let's compete the building. All the panels that you see that are 'missing' will be added. Most of them will be 'open' vertically to reveal pipes, control terminals, fuel cells and crew hatches. I'm thinking of adding a service lift to the side of the building AND....
How about I carve out a good amount of center circle, and cover it with mesh, resembling the flame/fumes trench. Will thing about it.



Second on the block, we have a Mont'ka HQ.




As with the Kanyon HQ, this building will have a number of details added to it, before I paint it and get it tabletop ready. Again, I have a general idea for some houserules for this building as well, to be included into FSE style armies.
Lastly, I've got two of this little Tau bunkers, which I will most likely convert to some sort of Radar domes.



Last parts of my Tau terrain will be ordered soon. I have contacted the manufacturers (one of them is currently relocating his workshop) and will be (hopefully) placing orders in the next few weeks. With all of this, I'll be busy working and painting and basing all the way till December.
^_^
#NoRush

I do apologize for not posting anything for almost a month. I got caught with end of my contract, new cast in my venue and scheduled change of itinerary (from 12 day cruises to 7 day cruises). I also changed my shipping address, which provided me with faster delivery time for my materials.


Also, I scored some eBay auctions, which provided me with extra bits to further convert my Tau buildings. Yummy yummy.


This morning I woke up, and being in cloudy Nassau (Bahamas) decided to start working on my Hammerheads. I really liked what Wolfs16 with his unit.

I want one too. Better to say TWO. Here they are. Making steady progress with this easy conversion.


Two sets of Piranha engines and two HammerHead bodies (with engines), saw, and some glue were soon mixed up to create my new command vehicles.


First I removed the drone mounts from both sides, following the curve of tank body. Then I made sure that Piranha engines can be mounted flush to the side. I had to cut out two little slots (one on each side) so that engines could be mounted on angle that I needed.


Once I got the angle I wanted, then I moved to dry-fitting and positioning the rear engines, so that they are slightly above the front engines and that they maintain the straight line.


Once satisfied, I hot glued them to the body of the tank. Further green stuff work will be needed, but the main positions are determined and will be much easier to complete the body.


Also, being done with hot glue (well, now cold) will provide me with reevaluation chance once I go home and before I start sealing all the openings.



Thanks for watching. I can't wait to go home and to finish this. I have quite a few things on my ToDo list, but I believe it will all be done by the end of 2017.
^_^

I'm finally home!
After 7 months of rocking over the high seas, I'm back. And ready to continue to kick some ManKind asses.


As I'm hoping to take participation in ETC 2017 in Salamanca (Spain) this summer, my army of choice are Necron. So I have spent entire morning preparing my project box and searching for bitz and pieces that I brought home last year.
^_^




I had to remove my Tau stuff and reorganize that as well. Dig out bases and prepare all the material I'll need. Also, it came good because I'm expecting one small tournament, which will favor one Tau list that I made some time ago.

Stay tunned. I'll be working and posting every day!
^_^

I got serious. Like TWO projects serious! From now, I'll try to post updates simultaneously.



TAU

I'm preparing for the small local tournament coming in April. And, out of all the units I selected to take to that tourney... None of them are complete. So I'm hasting to get them ready and field test them, before I submit my list.

NECRONS

Being a full and big army project, I'm using a different approach. Scenic bases, more detailed painting, pinning, on and on. I washed all the bases and got them ready to start the army build. As I still do not know exactly what list will I take to ETC, I opted to build default units that are basic build of almost every Necron list. Objective markers, two units of Warriors, two units of Immortals and so on.
Also, for this build I have moved my base of operations to the FLGS. It makes me focus more on the task at hand and enables me to conveniently store my models while being assembled. Going there today as well, to continue my build. Next in line are scarabs and some destroyers.

Well,

it's been a while since I posted last time. And a lot of things happened. I left my job on ships and came back home, to chill and relax and do the things I want to do, when I want them.

I have been working on my Tau and Necron army, but was lazy to take photos and to post them. I do feel a bit bad because of that, but on the other hand...


So many new things. To kick off this new era of posts and hobby work, I give you a sneak peak of my Shadow War team.
Enjoy.

Custom build "HagFish", designed to sustain prolonged exposure to hostile environment and to provide more support for the Spire Raider (pathfinder) team.


All models you see have been based with GW Sector Mechanicus Industrial Bases. Great buy. Really great buy.
Here is one of the currently finished bases, a loot marker for Shadow War. A 32mm base, with added lamp post (comes with the box) and a random bit (I believe some DropPod piece.)