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If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/05 20:57:41


Post by: Elnibbus


So... I pre-ordered the new Dark Imperium boxed game after seeing the rules leaks and pictures of the awesome new Primaris Marines. As such, this happened:







And you know what? I ain't even sorry. Wouldn't mind a bit of input as to how the armour is looking though: I've gone for a high contrast look so the edges finish in pure white. Not terribly sure about the green sword or if I should stick with my tried and tested turquoise power weapons...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/09 14:52:20


Post by: San76


I think the red looks great. So rich and grim as hell!
Love the high contrast highlights. As for the sword, I Ike the green. If anything, maybe a more saturated green?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/09 18:21:36


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers San! I was actually thinking about doing the power weapons of characters in different colours to make them stand out a bit from the rank and file...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/09 21:05:41


Post by: JamesY


Looks good. I think that the armour works well, but the sword needs more of a contrast between the light and dark. Again, very nice though, and I've often wondered what he'd look like without that topknot.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/10 18:27:37


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks for the input. Completely agree with you on the sword. On a different note: a week until Dark Imperium is released! Woot! I can't wait to get my grubby mitts on the Primaris Marines. And given that you only need a handful, I should be able to do a pretty decent job in a short amount of time.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/13 13:02:29


Post by: Elnibbus


Practiced a bit of freehand today...



If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/13 13:11:27


Post by: San76


Freehand looks amazing! Love those reds too


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/13 14:38:37


Post by: J-paint


Wow this is looking really cool, excited to see what you do with the primaris guys, and that freehand is looking amazing. (subscribed btw, this thread almost slipped by without me noticing it.)


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/13 21:05:49


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers chaps. I was farting about with the base earlier and decided on a neglected/nature-reclaimed urban/concrete/tarmac setting: dry grass growing between cracks in paving slabs, dirt and dust accumulated over years, maybe even dead/dying ivy growing up pillars and buildings etc (on bigger bases).

This will be something that I can really sink my fangs into.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/18 22:11:30


Post by: Elnibbus


Well I got my copy of Dark Imperium in the post on Saturday morning but as it happens, I spent the day in Birmingham picking up our wedding rings (which we made ourselves at the Quarter Workshop ).

Anyway, I got the Primaris Marines out and the sprues are really nice to work with. I have assembled one sprue of two Intercessors, two Hellblasters and one Inceptor into sub assemblies to make airbrushing them easier.

Made the mistake of airbrushing the darker red first which, in hingsight would have been better applied as an under-light. As it happened, I now have to do many, many, MANY coats of the lighter red. *Sigh* anyway, I feel I may be able to smash these out quite quickly and hopefully to a fairly good standard.

Pictures will follow when I have something decent to show you all.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/21 22:19:40


Post by: Elnibbus


Well I can't seem to take decent photos for love nor money but at least I'm painting!







It's a bit dirty and slap-dash at the moment as I'm just figuring out the scheme but it seems to be coming together alright.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/22 02:42:23


Post by: Camkierhi


Stunning red and that freehand is amazing.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/22 06:17:06


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers Cam. Think they'll do like this for gaming purposes and should look good as a group.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/22 07:01:37


Post by: nerdfest09


And subbed mate! how dare you not personally invite me to be part of this blog!

I love that freehand! I am so jealous of those that can paint such beautiful things at that scale! that is a top tier job, your reds are nice as well but being so 'red' (whereas mine were on the orange side) i'd say make your contrast in the shadows really dark as this will help the red show it's true shade and give those highlights more time to shine!

red is also a beeatch to photograph and that's the real reason I sold my Flesh Eaters


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/22 08:26:54


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks for the pointers buddy! I agree that the shaded areas need to be darker: will reinforce with some nuln oil in the recesses.

Got a couple better shots this morning in natural light. They're better but still not brilliant!






Automatically Appended Next Post:
Done a bit more throught the day:









I'm not particularly sure about the purple glow... Maybe I should stick with hawk turquoise?

Got a wee production line going:



Plus I learned today just how fiddly it is to paint those plasma incinerators. That and i hate painting black...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/23 17:44:47


Post by: J-paint


Looking really really good, just to reiterate the comment about deepening the shadow and they will be perfect, looking forwards to seeing them finished.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/23 21:24:05


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers buddy! I'm getting to know exactly what nerdy said about taking pictures of red: it's a right royal pain the backside. It's bad enough that I'm crap to begin with... Anyway, I have darkened the shaded areas and they are now shadey; it's just a shame I can't convey that via an electronic medium!



I'm sooooo close to getting these dudes done but they will have to wait until Sunday. Just need heads, bases and a few touchups here and there. Then I can take a load of bits with me when I'm away with work next week to build. Might get a load of bases done too.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/24 05:45:18


Post by: Azazelx


Your BA Primaris marines look sweet! Also really like the freehand winged blood drop on the Abaddon model.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/25 13:15:58


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks Azazel: they'll certainly do for gaming purposes anyway! For the bases, I've been cutting up sheets of cork to simulate tarmac on roads. Will probably paint yellow lines and such on them and do pavements/crumbling walls etc. Pictures to follow!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/25 13:22:17


Post by: San76


I think they look great. Personally I really like the purple energy weapons. Gives it a point of difference.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/25 16:32:58


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks San: the purple has definitely grown on me! I've been drafted in to drive to a birthday party this afternoon so my hobby time will have to wait until later *hrumph*


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/28 13:18:21


Post by: Zillian


That freehand Blood Angels emblem... I'm jealous!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/29 12:15:05


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks Zillian, it's by no means GD winning stuff but it will do!

Just a wee update to say I've made all of the bases for my Intercessors, Hellblasters and Inceptors from cork. I've also made my Primaris Captain more Blood Angel-y and changed his sword...







If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/29 13:38:37


Post by: evildrcheese


These are looking great. Blood Angels are the best

EDC


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/29 21:21:34


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks EDC. I attempted sculpting wings either side of the blood drop on the left shoulder but it did not look good at all (like a Great Unclean One barfed up all over it).

Suffice to say, I'm thinking about cheating and free-handing it unless anyone has any tips?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/29 22:30:07


Post by: Camkierhi


Don't suppose you have anything to make a mould of the wings from the other shoulder with. Plastercine would do in a pinch. Then either some cheap resin, or green stuff pressed into the mould. Heat the GS up in some warm (not hot) water, makes it more pliable. I have some of that remouldable rubber like blue stuff. And a drop of epoxy resin and you are golden, can even heat up the resin after to mould it properly to shape.

I am no expert with the GS but warming it up, and using vasline on your tools are the two "must know" tips for working with it for me.

Oh and excellent work BTW, really smooth and very nice.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/06/30 09:50:27


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks Cam. I do indeed have some of that insta-mold stuff and just so happen to also have a nice winged skull banner-topper thing: the wing on the right shoulder pad is a bit naff so I may well replace it too.

I was going to have a bash at doing true metallic gold on this bloke but I'm not so sure: thoughts?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/02 13:59:31


Post by: Elnibbus


So tries the insta-mols technique. Had to cut up the resulting item and shave it down drastically. It's a bit rough but not sure how much better I can get it!



I've also been working on something else I seem to struggle with: basing. This is something that usually lets my models down but hopefully I've redeemed myself with these. I've down basic broken up cork board for the standard troops but gone a little but more involved with the officers:



And for the Ancient and Caprain:





Let me know what you think people!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/02 15:09:08


Post by: EmberlordofFire8


Very nice bases. Where'd you get those walls?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/02 15:30:13


Post by: Elnibbus


I actually made them from foamboard: basically cut it up, messed it up a bit, stuck some cut-up paperclip in it to resemble rebar and then gave it a lick of flexi-bark to give it a concrete texture.

Update: thought I'd whack some paint on the captain.





If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/03 05:20:14


Post by: nerdfest09


Wow dude that guy is going to look amazeballs! gold really suits that....suit....of armour :-)


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/03 06:04:06


Post by: evildrcheese


Looking good dude. The press moulded wings came out really nice. What bit did you use to get that wing design?

EDC


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/03 07:30:00


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks both!

@EDC I used the banner/backpack topper from the Blood Angel accessory sprue. Had to trim it down a helluva lot to get it to fit!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/03 08:59:48


Post by: Camkierhi


Wings came out fine, look spot on. Really nice colour for the armour, like that a lot. Oh BTW, those bases are looking shockingly good, brilliant work.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/03 13:41:08


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers Cam! I do try to please at least some of the people, some of the time! I had to give up on the armour last night as I was starting to see gold spots in my vision... Planning to get the rest of the Marines assembled as there isn't a great deal of benefit in keeping them in bits. Case in point: the helmets for my first four Marines turned out slightly different to the rest of their armour.

Anyhoo, will have a crack at the bases tonight and get some more done to the Captain. All being well I should have his armour done. The question is: what colour to do his cloak? I was thinking a really deep red, verging on purple.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/05 06:24:08


Post by: Meph


Oh boy, you whack paint good. Those Primarises look good in red, and a good red it is. Gives me hope for my batch o' primos.

And I must say, nice plasma glow as well, purple's a good colour for it, and it works well with the red. Even though it shouldn't, it does.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/05 06:34:14


Post by: youwashock


Great stuff all around, but that captain is going to be a thing of beauty.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/05 08:43:48


Post by: Elnibbus


Many thanks all!

I had a bit of a 'mare last night with the sword on the captain: managed to achieve what I thought to be a suitably nice crystal/NMM effect with a standard brush and then ruined it with the white lining on all the sharp edges. So I've had to start again!

Anyhoo, I'll attempt to get the sword done this evening and get something tangible to show you all in due course. Bases are almost all done too...


Automatically Appended Next Post:
So... I sat down this evening and tried to get the sword done.

It did not turn out as well as I had originally envisaged:







At least the wings on the left shoulder pad turned out ok I guess...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/05 22:53:02


Post by: Azazelx


Great work here, mate. That paint really ties your conversion work together really nicely!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/06 08:29:03


Post by: Elnibbus


It's kind of you to say so Azazel. I did some tidying up as best I could to the point that I can bear to look at the sword now so at least that's something. Got some more bases done last night too but didn't take any pictures of those.

I had planned to get the rest of the Marines assembled and at least primed but messing about with the sword took up a lot of my time last night. So for the rest of the week my aim is to get everything at least base-coated.

Oh aye: I bought an OOP metal Astorath (minus axe) for a fiver off ebay yesterday..


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/07 18:32:23


Post by: Elnibbus


Little bit of progress...









Cloak still needs a bit of work but for my first attempt at glazing/blending, I'm quite happy with it


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/07 18:45:51


Post by: youwashock


Really liking the effect on the power fist.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/07 19:27:59


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers mate. I'm playing around with different effects and styles: I've found getting a true metallic metal gold colour and doing shadows is more difficult than I at first thought!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/08 17:11:19


Post by: DaemonJellybaby


I am a fan of the powerfist, did you use the verdigris-effect paint on it?
Can we have some pictures of the bases?
Quality basing is an often undervalued element of this hobby.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/08 23:26:33


Post by: Elnibbus


DaemonJellybaby wrote:
I am a fan of the powerfist, did you use the verdigris-effect paint on it?
Can we have some pictures of the bases?
Quality basing is an often undervalued element of this hobby.


I used the old Citadel Haw Turquoise to wash over the digits and palm of the fist. I then used white in the inner most recesses.

I don't have any pictures of the finished bases yet but I'm *this* close to finishing the captain: stay tuned!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/08 23:28:49


Post by: Camkierhi


This is going to be a truly atunning model, and heck of an army once done, really nice work.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/10 18:10:07


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers Cam, let's hope you think the following pictures are up to the task!









If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/10 18:41:09


Post by: youwashock


That's the stuff right there, man. Came out awesome. That cape is fantastic.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/10 20:50:22


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks mate. Got a few better pics of him and the completed Marines:
















And some of the other Marines:









Overall I'm quite happy with how they've turned out. The thing I'm especially pleased about is the drain pipe on the Captain's base...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/11 04:09:50


Post by: nerdfest09


That looks great! the very gold gold is nice and the addition of a different bare head on that body is imo much better, I like it a lot and even though Primaris are my kryptonite *shudder* i'll still be your friend :-)


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/11 05:14:52


Post by: evildrcheese


Lovely stuff mate. That Captain looks wicked.

EDC


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/11 09:09:29


Post by: Elnibbus


@Nerdy, awww thanks mate: OOPAH FWENDZ

@EDC, cheers: hopefully he'll be good enough to win a painting competition that's coming up at the local GeeDub.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/11 13:46:35


Post by: San76


Love the shading on the gold !


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/11 15:04:44


Post by: Azazelx


Bloody nice work thee mate. The captain especialy, but the Primaris look great as well with the glow in the eyes that really make them pop.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/11 21:47:53


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks everyone, much appreciated!

I've been a bit lazy the past couple of night BUT this evening I did pick up the hobby saw and bisect an OOP Astorath. I also ordered a set of colour shapers to sculpt with.

I've been watching A LOT of tutorials on sculpting recently in anticipation of what will probably be my most involved work to date...

Mephiston.

I once read somewhere that the Lord of Death was one of the biggest Marines in existence after his transformation. He is also probably the most sinister one to boot. As such, I'll be upscaling the torso and legs of the Astorath mini, adding a cloak and robes in a fashion similar to the Urien Rakarth figure: I want him to be levitating using his psychic power in a looming and, dare I say it, vampiric manner.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/12 22:39:50


Post by: Elnibbus


So I flexed my sculpting muscles today.....



If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/14 08:32:45


Post by: Elnibbus


So... I did a bit more sculpting last night after assembling everything else to get ready for priming (which reminds me: I need to buy some more Chaos Black spray paint!).

What dawned on me very quickly was that I have sculpted his abdominal muscles the wrong way: the lines should be vertical and not horizontal... Fudge.

I've decided to sculpt his legs from scratch instead of using the existing ones as a base. We shall see how that goes as I've never sculpted limbs before.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/14 09:28:24


Post by: Meph


No tentacle sculpting. Then we'd have to send in the Inquisition.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/14 10:11:05


Post by: Elnibbus


Tentacles? No dear fellow, just a mahoosive billowing cloak and a slinky number for his robes with a split up the middle. You know, all classy like... (Which is what an 8ft spehss vampire should be: classy).


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/14 22:52:21


Post by: youwashock


Looking good, right direction or not.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/16 13:43:37


Post by: Elnibbus


Ta! Started batch-painting the rest of the Primaris dudes in fives and have resorted to using the GW guide to painting Blood Angels. It's quicker and more consistent as I was finding it different to get my technique down in a uniform manner.

Having spent years insisting I'm more of a painter than a gamer, I really want to start gaming! With that in mind, my basic troops will be, well, more basic (Emperor forgive me).

I will obviously pay more attention to Elites/HQs vehicles etc.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/07/25 12:12:33


Post by: Elnibbus


Well I've been a bit quiet recently folks BUT I have made some inroads into clearing the work on my desk! I have finished 10 Primaris so far, even gone back and changed some bit on the ones I had done previously. I have the Ancient, the two Lieutenants, three Inceptors, two Hellblasters and four Intercessors to go...

Hmm, that's actually quite a lot left to do. Especially when you factor in the purchase of 10 Tartaros Terminators and a Primaris Librarian over the weekend...

Bugger.

Still, you'd be proud of me folks: I resisted the urge to buy 15 Death Company and a Fire Raptor! Wooo!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/02 20:47:12


Post by: Elnibbus


So I started on the Tartaros Terminators. Small freehand is small (and pictures are pish):





Got a couple almost finished. I have to say that these are a joy to paint and I seem to be getting through them at a quicker pace than the Primaris, even if I am going further and doing battle damage and OSL.

What I don't like is that the primer went grainy: it's pissed me off no end but can't really do much about it on plastic models. Anyhoo, I'm persevering with them.

Got a Deimos predator en route to convert into a Baal with magnetized weapon options. Will hopefully have the Terminators done by Sunday.

Peace out.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/02 22:09:16


Post by: youwashock


Gritty primer is a drag, but those guys are looking great, nonetheless.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/03 11:19:20


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers youwashock, hoping that they'll look alright when they're finished...

I have another squad of five to assemble but I'm umming and arring about how to equip them: I'm leaning towards power fists, storm bolters and an assault cannon (I've already made one for the Tartaros termies out of brass rod and styrene).

Hopefully the Deimos will turn up soon and I can get that built and a twin-linked Ass.Cannon converted up. If I can knuckle down, I'll get all of the Tartaros done this weekend.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/04 00:54:52


Post by: Camkierhi


Fantastic free hand work. Can't go wrong with an ass.cannon. What Termies were made for.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/04 12:21:02


Post by: Elnibbus


ASSSSSSSSSSS... Cannon...



If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/05 00:43:49


Post by: Azazelx


I really like that scratchbuild. Very cool!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/06 19:51:30


Post by: Elnibbus


Had a somewhat productive weekend...









If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/06 21:53:10


Post by: youwashock


Nice work on that AC turret.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/07 04:52:01


Post by: Theophony


Great scratch work on the turret , just needs rivets.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/07 05:56:41


Post by: evildrcheese


Nice job on the assault cannon turret and terminator assault cannon.

EDC


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/07 07:07:03


Post by: EmberlordofFire8


Yep, I'm definitely getting one of those. Great job!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/07 09:06:31


Post by: Meph


Cool! Nice reds and great scratch building.

Say, about the Tartaros, I'm curious what your thoughts are on their assembly (they seem to be the plastic ones, not the FW ones). I've got a squad lying on my desk, half assembled, because I can't decide on how to paint the helmets separately.

-The helmets glued in prevents them from being painted cleanly as they are very far recessed.

-Gluing on the top cover of the body, and pushing in the helmets after painting seem very risky as it is a very, very tight fit squeezing them in. And during some dry-fitting, it seems that the heads are also quite difficult to position correctly after being squeezed into that rather deep cavity.

-Leaving the top covers off, paint everything separately, and assemble afterwards, has the obvious drawback of the top cover not being seemless with the rest of the armour.


Oh, it just hit me. It might be doable to first paint the helmets and the inner 'collar' area/cavity. Glue in the helmets, glue on the top cover; and cover the helmet with masking tape before painting the rest.

What say you, I wonder?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/07 09:55:16


Post by: EmberlordofFire8


 Meph wrote:
Cool! Nice reds and great scratch building.

Say, about the Tartaros, I'm curious what your thoughts are on their assembly (they seem to be the plastic ones, not the FW ones). I've got a squad lying on my desk, half assembled, because I can't decide on how to paint the helmets separately.

-The helmets glued in prevents them from being painted cleanly as they are very far recessed.

-Gluing on the top cover of the body, and pushing in the helmets after painting seem very risky as it is a very, very tight fit squeezing them in. And during some dry-fitting, it seems that the heads are also quite difficult to position correctly after being squeezed into that rather deep cavity.

-Leaving the top covers off, paint everything separately, and assemble afterwards, has the obvious drawback of the top cover not being seemless with the rest of the armour.


Oh, it just hit me. It might be doable to first paint the helmets and the inner 'collar' area/cavity. Glue in the helmets, glue on the top cover; and cover the helmet with masking tape before painting the rest.

What say you, I wonder?


I painted my tartarus heads after attaching them to the body, the actually aren't that hard to access.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/07 12:11:38


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks everyone. The hardest part was shaping the section that fits against the turret. The shield is laminated sheets of 0.25mm styrene.

@Meph, I actually used blu-tac to stick the top covers on before spraying them: I've painted the helmets separately then glued them in, pop the top cover back on and carried on with the rest of the armour.

Since the last painting update, I've changed the scheme to the one GeeDub uses: it's quicker and gives much the same effect.

Will get a shot up of my first finished Tartaros when I get home tomorrow.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/08 02:40:16


Post by: nerdfest09


^ @ Meph: I also just used a small amount of blu tac to stay the top cover while I primed and painted them and then just pulled it apart to add the bare heads I'd painted. easy! :-)


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/10 02:04:09


Post by: Azazelx


Fantastic scratchbuild on that AC turret piece.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/10 07:41:01


Post by: Elnibbus


Nice of you to say Azazelx, I've actually started making another one for when I get a second Deimos Predator for horde shredding

This time though I have made a mold of the back of the gun shield so I don't have to mess about with shaping the styrene (hopefully meaning it'll be quicker to do!).

Once that has been completed, I will get cracking with assembling the rest of the Tartaros Terminators... I had indicated that I was going to get them done over the weekend, however real life got in the way (mowing the lawn, house stuff, helping the Mrs out with a wedding cake she was making, Battlefield 1...). I have managed to paint up the most of two of the LC armed ones though!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/11 17:32:46


Post by: Elnibbus


Might have got distracted (again) and accidentally sculpted a new face for someone...



If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/11 21:54:07


Post by: nerdfest09


That's actually pretty good!!! his top lip looks a bit bee stung but I imagine with fangs you may get the occasional jab :-) good scale and proportions on such a small sculpt, I think you've done an excellent job.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/11 22:41:21


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers Nerdy! The top lip is slightly lighter in colour and I have since put in a phultrim


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/11 22:42:03


Post by: Theophony


It's a primaris upper lip they are bigger and tougher than other upper lips .

I think it looks awesome, didn't even see the upper lip as an issue.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/12 07:45:43


Post by: Elnibbus


Ha! Well I'm not seeing this as Mrphiston going for the 'upgrade', more that he is supposed to be a massive Marine to begin with and needed a model which reflects his statline


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/13 18:05:13


Post by: Elnibbus


Been a fairly productive weekend, even if there has been some project slippage...



If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/16 22:34:11


Post by: Elnibbus


Evenin' all... Got a quick question regarding markings for Marines: does anyone have a good reference for additional symbols/icons etc to add to the armour? Something that isn't just scribble? Night Lords have lightning, Thousand Sons have heiroglyphs, Space Wolves have runes, Carcharadons have tribal, Minotaurs have meander.... I get a kind of renaissance vibe from the Blood Angels given their character names and their fluff as artists and fine craftsmen. Would scrollwork be worth a shot?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/16 22:45:37


Post by: Theophony


 Elnibbus wrote:
Evenin' all... Got a quick question regarding markings for Marines: does anyone have a good reference for additional symbols/icons etc to add to the armour? Something that isn't just scribble? Night Lords have lightning, Thousand Sons have heiroglyphs, Space Wolves have runes, Carcharadons have tribal, Minotaurs have meander.... I get a kind of renaissance vibe from the Blood Angels given their character names and their fluff as artists and fine craftsmen. Would scrollwork be worth a shot?

They are Greek inspired.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/17 09:34:59


Post by: snykyninja


That captain is beautiful, makes me jealous. The tartaros terminators are looking good too, just have to hope that the codex gives us access to them now...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/17 10:18:33


Post by: Elnibbus


@Theophony: are you sure? Aside from the nipple-armour, I can't see much in the way of Greek in them? Anyway, I'll just fart about with scrollwork and hope for the best.

@snykyninja: thanks very much. I aim to use these in 30k as well as 40k. If we don't have access to Tartaros in 40k, I'll just run them as normal assaut or tactical terminators


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/17 10:25:51


Post by: Luvvo


Love the subtle highlights on your red armour!

The Gravis captain looks awesome. Totally pinching your subtle power fist low lights as well!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/17 15:53:15


Post by: Elnibbus


@Luvvo: pinch away buddy! I pinched it myself from a pocture of a Death Company marine I saw online


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/21 21:10:47


Post by: Elnibbus


Done a bit of re-positioning...





Still got a fair way to go. Terminators are coming along nicely: just got the claws and blingy bits to go. Work has started on the Baal Predator too.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/23 02:41:41


Post by: Camkierhi


Looking great.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/23 11:11:18


Post by: Elnibbus


Cheers Cam. I have finished the assault terminators and have started the tactical ones and the Predator while I mull over what to do next on Mephiston...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/24 15:49:45


Post by: Elnibbus


Pics of the terminator squad:



















Not as happy with them as I probably should be (there are a couple of odd bits here and there that are fairly rough) but they are my first completed unit since about 2005...

I have also monumentally screwed up my Predator. So, I've scrubbed it with methylated spirits and also white spirits to get rid of the paint/varnish. So... Starting all over again!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/24 19:41:29


Post by: youwashock


That's a good looking batch of Tartaros. Great reds.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/24 22:50:35


Post by: Theophony


 Elnibbus wrote:
@Theophony: are you sure? Aside from the nipple-armour, I can't see much in the way of Greek in them? Anyway, I'll just fart about with scrollwork and hope for the best.


Sorry for the late reply.

I'll have to dig up older stories, but you also have the death masks. They talk about the columns in some stories and you get a very Greek/roman feel from that. There's also his younger years when he was part of the blood tribe which would cast out the misformed (very spartan) to die. Tycho as a hero's name is another part of it. I could well be wrong, but there certainly are influences.

I like what you've done with the repositioning.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/25 11:38:19


Post by: Elnibbus


No problem Theo, I see what you're getting at. I think I was focussing more on the artwork they tend to lavish on their vehicles and the imagery is kinda renaissance in style.

Anyhoo, work has commenced on the Tactical Terminators alongside the Predator (which I've started again). Hopefully have the Terms done by the end of next week.

Then I can get some Death Company...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/25 13:56:16


Post by: Corrode


The Renaissance (which is the inspiration for the Blood Angels aesthetic) is heavily Greek-influenced. So it's more like classical Greece is an influence on an influence rather than being direct like it is for Ultramarines.

Tycho, with his artificial nose, is a reference to Tycho Brahe - quite an important figure in the late Renaissance.

e: and, of course, Commander Dante.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/29 12:52:00


Post by: Elnibbus


Yep, good point Corrode...

At any rate, I have done sweet FA over the weekend because I had my stag-do. After copious amounts of booze (and vomit), I returned home on Sunday and crawled to the study where I poked at the Predator with trembling hands before giving up to feel sorry for myself on the sofa with the cat. I ordered pizza and fell asleep.

I tried doing some sculpting yesterday but I still couldn't concentrate/keep a steady hand. My only consolation from the weekend was my bright pink "Bride to Be sash" and my clay pigeon shooting trophies (which I won on Saturday despite a horrendous hangover).

Needless to say, I am way behind where I envisaged I would be at this stage however I will endeavor to get SOMETHING finished this week, perhaps the tank as I think it would be quicker than the Terminators...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/08/29 23:15:39


Post by: nerdfest09


That is the best update i've read in a while lol! I do like to see beyond the wall, hope you're feeling more up to it!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/05 21:21:53


Post by: Elnibbus


So I've got a wee update on my Deimos Baal Predator...













If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/06 04:39:30


Post by: nerdfest09


That's some nicely done powder dirt there! it certainly adds to the heavy duty nature of the tank and you've applied it well! have you just used powders? or a mix of drybrushing paint as well?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/06 07:33:32


Post by: Corrode


Great work on the Predator. I love the old style exhausts on that thing.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/06 11:00:34


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks both!

@nerdfest, I did some paint chipping effects under the dirt and then applied powders over the top. The paint is mostly obscured but where it does show through, goves the illusion of scraped armour (I think).

Just got weapons and minor details to go and my entry for the September Dakka painting comp is done. Then onto the second termie squad.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/09 19:03:37


Post by: Elnibbus


Just a wee update with some freehand details...









If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/09 21:14:54


Post by: Corrode


That is some very tidy freehand, well done.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/10 20:49:31


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks Corrode

Just got the sponson weapons to go before I can call it done for the purposes of the painting competition but I still have the other turret options to do...

I've already started on the next squad of terminators but they'll take longer than the first, purely because I ewant to do a better job of them!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/11 01:32:51


Post by: lliu


Very sweet. Will definitely keep an eye on this page.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/11 08:19:27


Post by: Camkierhi


Exceptional work bud, wonderful.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/13 10:45:38


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks chaps. Look, additional progress!



Trying out the scratching techniques I used on the Pred on the Terminators... It's slow going and I'm not sure it's working. I will get better pictures in my lightbox later tonight.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/13 11:25:35


Post by: insaniak


Yup, lovely work on the tank.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/14 07:42:36


Post by: Thousandeyes


We need some group pictures of everything you have finished so far buddy. Looking very well.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/28 18:22:59


Post by: Elnibbus


Finished my Deimos Baal Predator:











If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/28 19:25:32


Post by: youwashock


Looks awesome. Great weathering!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/09/29 11:08:59


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks youwashock I did think I may have overdone it in places but I think it turned out OK overall.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/08 20:38:45


Post by: Elnibbus


Right folks. I'm in the doldrums somewhat with the hobby at the moment. I seem to put a lot of effort into my models to get pretty dismal scores from votes in the gallery and in painting competitions. Far from this being a plug, can anyone recommend ways for me to improve upon my painting/modelling?

I mean, I try to inject a bit of realism into what I do but is this the problem? Are my paint palettes too dull? Are the poses of the minis too static/not dynamic enough?

Do I need to do something big and flashy? More freehand?


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/08 20:50:53


Post by: youwashock


Step one: don't put a lot of stock in gallery votes and painting competitions.

Objectively speaking, you are a good painter. Your technique is well-developed, and your schemes are well thought out and well-executed. While we are all here seeking validation from strangers, the important thing to remember is that you do this for yourself first. If you are happy with what you have done, that is the most important thing.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/08 22:29:36


Post by: Camkierhi


I have been there on that one buddy. I do enjoy getting a buzz out of a vote or comment now and then but don't pay any real attention to it. I avoid the competitions (apart from the LoER ) as they tend to be a bit funny and highly demotivating for me.

Your work is brilliant, and among the best I know and definitely one of the few I come look at for inspiration. You have a style that is very realistic and would not be out of place in the historical section. Please don't get me wrong, you still have areas to challenge you and I am not trying to just stroke your ego here. I was in exactly the same place a while ago.

I paint for me now. Model for me now. Some people like it and ask for some of my stuff, many don't as is evident in the gallery and the few competitions I have entered.

If you want a higher profile here on Dakka the only one I know for sure is to get a comment or two on the gallery. Your work is easily good enough to be noticed as it is, so don't need anything flashy.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/09 05:41:08


Post by: Corrode


I'd say that if you want to succeed in painting competitions with 40k or get tons of Dakka gallery votes you need to change your style. Make it bigger, bolder and louder so it catches the eye more.

Personally I'd tell you not to bother though - you have a great style which works really well.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/09 09:34:21


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks chaps. This was a sincere request for pointers in improving my technique as I thought I needed something else to make my stuff better and the response has been great. I think my biggest areas for improvement are blends and glazing: I still struggle with colour changes which is wuite evident in the BA Captain's sword.

Anyway, I have had to order two new nozzle and needle sets for my Badger Patriot airbrush as I forgot I was halfway through cleaning it and got distracted... Needless to say, the nozzle is knackered and the tip of the needle out of true (bent).

Hobby has been put on hold of late as have been doing DIY around the house and I haven't bought anything model-wise: getting married a fortnight on Thursday so money has been a bit tight. Will be taking a trip to Warhammer World after the day though: gonna bust a wad on a tonne of resin crack!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/09 20:38:12


Post by: youwashock


Congrats on the impending nuptials!


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/10 08:57:46


Post by: Elnibbus


Thanks youwashock yes the soon-to-be-wife would be most displeased if I bought my planned two Punisher-armed Vultures prior to the big day... Or the further planned Elysians with Cadian heads (works out at £66 quid a squad!).

I've decided to use my BA as Heresy only so needed to fill the 8th ed hole with an elite (i.e. small) army of cheesey amounts of dakka...


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/13 23:20:53


Post by: Elnibbus


Start of a scenic base...



If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/17 10:52:09


Post by: Camkierhi


That is looking fab, totally me thing, but I would deepen the brickwork and then during painting you have something to fill with "mortar", as opposed to painting the lines in.


If I am an angel, paint me with black wings - a Blood Angels blog @ 2017/10/17 14:48:52


Post by: Elnibbus


You've got a fair point Cam... My intention was to use pigments on it once it was sealed but not sure how that would look. This is only a dry-run for a future project though and will hopefully not be the focus when finished.