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Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/03 00:32:50


Post by: Arakasi


So, my belated and slightly disappointing 2021 year in review...


I completed 9 regular models this year. 5 Warhammer 40K (3 Orks), 1 Bloodbowl, 1 Bombshell Babe, 1 Infinity and 1 The Old World.

I acquired 14 models this year, consisting of 13 regular (10 Guard, 3 Orks) and 1 vehicle (Deffkopta).

With only 5 added pages to the plog this year, it was mostly 10 months of Dakka Painting Challenge and 2 months of silence....

  • July 21 - Nothing To Fear But Fear Itself - Hassassin Fiday - 11 out of 420 votes placing equal 15th with 1 other out of 30 contestents for 3 points/percent.
  • August 21 - Rebel Scum - Rebellious Grot - 10 out of 422 votes placing equal 20th with 1 other out of 33 contestents for 2 points/percent.
  • October 21 - Halloween Special - Undead Warrior - 10 out of 401 votes placing equal 16th with 1 other out of 28 contestents for 2 points/percent.

  • April 21 - Traveling in Style - Ork Stormboy - 15 out of 457 votes placing equal 10th with 1 other out of 35 contestents for 3 points/percent.
  • May 21 - From Ages Past - Cave Girl - 7 out of 353 votes placing 22nd out of 32 contestents for 2 points/percent.
  • June 21 - Boots on the Ground - Ork Slugga - 8 out of 418 votes placing equal 22nd with 2 others out of 40 contestents for 2 points/percent.

  • November 20: New Tricks - Drukhari Mandrake. (new faction, new material-finecast) - 8 out of 434 votes placing equal 20th with 7 others out of 29 contestents for 2 points/percent.
  • February 21 - Showing Off! - Bloodbowl Human Catcher - 13 out of 380 votes placing equal 11th with 2 others out of 30 contestents for 3 points/percent.
  • March 21: Space Marine - Dark Angels Terminator - 11 out of 339 votes placing equal 12th with 2 others out of 29 contestents for 3 points/percent.

  • Not shown, due to not fully complete, is September 21 - Heavy Metal - Ork Deff Dread (Da Deffwing) - 13 out of 407 votes placing equal 11th with 3 others out of 31 contestents for 3 points/percent.

    My Goals for 2021 were:
  • FAIL - Complete twice or more models than I add - I would have had to complete 28 or only acquire 4 (the Steel Legion was the difference between pass and fail here...)
  • FAIL - Complete a minimum of 20 models - 9 is not 20.
  • FAIL - Complete a minimum of 10 Da Dark Angelz models - 3 is not 10, nor is it half of 9.
  • FAIL - Place in the top 10 of the Dakka Painting Challenge League Table - I finished 20/21 with 26 points, equal 17th. An extra 6 points would only have netted me equal 13th. I currently have 20pts in 21/22, currently equal 19th with one round to go - that I didn't enter (or the previous 3).
  • FAIL - Comment on the Dakka Painting Challenge entries - I maybe managed once?
  • FAIL - Finish a LoER entry - but I did manage to host a round...

  • . I blame work.

    Taking gobert's advice fully on board, I got a little carried away prepping for 2022, purchasing:
  • Combat Patrol: Orks - was supposed to be a reward for meeting my goals in 2021... (25 miniatures)
  • Orks: Killdakka Warband - for the battle force discount, and I shouldn't need any more than 40 (combined with the Combat Patrol above) of the new boyz, right? (40 miniatures)
  • Ork Warboss Grukk's Boss Mob - because I figured it would be more expensive after they split the box (it was) (7 miniatures)
  • Ork Boyz (old) - in case they disappeared (they didn't) (11 miniatures)
  • Ork Lootas - because the discount store ran out of Boyz and I *needed* to make up to free shipping... (5 ministaures)

  • That makes 88 miniatures purchased this year. No way I can keep my goals from last year, so, here are the revised goals for 2022:

    Arakasi's Goals for 2022:
  • Complete a minimum of 88 models - this is an attempt to keep my pile of potential steady
  • Complete twice or more models than I add (above the 88 already) - this is to head off additional purchases
  • Complete a minimum of 44 Da Dark Angelz models.
  • Place in the top 10 of the Dakka Painting Challenge League Table.

  • 88 completed models seems a lot for me, but between incomplete miniatures from 2021:



    ...and using the new acquisitions as a tool to complete previously in progress Da Dark Angels, I'm hopeful of making it. Of course the slow start to 2022 hasn't helped....

    I'm looking forward to making the most of my new purchases and rejoining the Dakka Painting Challenge. I'm considering starting a new Da Dark Angels plog - as I expect this year will be very Ork centric - and keep this plog for the non Ork Dakka Painting Challenge entries and other pure hobby related musings.

    Wish me luck!

    Feel free to skip ahead or take the scenic route - whichever you prefer:
  • 2020 Review (Page 12)
  • 2021 Review (Page 17)

  • Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/03 02:53:16


    Post by: JustALittleOrkish


    Intriguing

    [Thumb - PLTZJRh.gif]
    Hmm


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/03 03:05:15


    Post by: Arakasi


    Original first post:

    With the dawn of a new year, I've decided to make another attempt at resurrecting my beleaguered hobby. Inspired in part (probably mostly) by the plethora of Dakka P&M blogs with impressive 2019 in review updates and 2020 plans that I have been lurking on. Attempt one last year (my Imperial Knights) had the right "idea" of reducing the scope, but I think something got lost in the implementation. I've also been distracted (and will continue to be) by an unrelated non hobby project. I also only have access to my hobby 50% of the time at current, but that will go up to 75% in April.

    So, what exactly is the plan?

    I've been playing some Warhammer Underworlds, and will take possession of Rippa's Snarlfangs shortly as a belated Christmas present. (I also have Ironskull's Boyz). And just because by hobby has been on hiatus doesn't mean my pile of shame hasn't been, or will continue to be, increasing. I took part in the Limbo Kickstarter which is due to deliver soon... I discovered last year that my paints are in various conditions of usability, and of course, there have been a few changes to the paint range since I last picked up a brush in earnest.

    So this is going to be part journey of discovery and rediscovery, part motivation, and probably a lot more paint and less modelling than those that may have followed on with my previous endeavours might expect.

    To start with, I'll be exploring the fine art of paint stripping - as I attempt to strip the paint from some old metal minis that I lost interest in decades ago due to a bad primer. From there, I hope to move to paint experimentation on those minis in preparation for tackling Rippa's Snarlfangs and (some of) Limbo. With a bit of luck that might inspire me to revisit my Imperial Knights and Orks - but we'll see how we go.

    I warmly invite you to join me on the journey (and prod me where necessary!)

    Catchya!
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/11 13:43:29


    Post by: Arakasi


    It begins...

    I have some test subjects:


    A collection of Chaos Thugs (I believe) and a Chaos Warrior from decades ago who suffered a bad (grainy) prime and never recovered. Metal minis with plastic bases, with a lot of skin to practise on.

    And some supplies:


    I'll see how it goes with the metals, then I'm sure I have some plastic beastmen that can be a plastic paint strip test case...

    I'll need to see if I can find some old wolves or boars to practise (painting) on as well, as well as some old goblines or grots.... (bound to be a couple... of dozen... or so)

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/11 19:18:00


    Post by: gobert


    Wow! They’re proper old skool! Hopefully they help you get back in to the hobby properly!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/11 19:27:54


    Post by: Llamahead


    Going to suggest Dettol for the plastics its gentler on them and strips paint well.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/11 22:46:18


    Post by: Meer_Cat


    We also use Dettol once a month on our ponies' hooves- to make sure and baddies in the frog material are proper killed dead.

    I second using Dettol, but if the paint is particularly pernicious, then brake fluid is (my) nuclear final option. It can't hurt metals, but can be rough on some plastics.

    I look forward to following along and learning from you as you go!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/12 08:19:41


    Post by: Arakasi


    Welcome all, and thank you for the Dettol suggestions.

    There is a lot of information about on paint stripping. The ones below are the ones that struck a chord with me, so to speak:
  • Strip Paint off Miniatures Cheap and Easy – A How-To Guide - big fan of Isopropyl Alcohol.
  • STRIPPING - A "How To" from Big Willy Style - a nice breakdown of various products and active ingredients.
  • Dakka Modeling FAQ: How to Strip... - our very own DakkaDakka - big fan of Castrol Super Clean.

  • The above list is definitively *not* exhaustive!

    I thought I'd go with Methylated Spirits first as it is:
  • Reasonably cheap and readily available to me.
  • Mentioned (if briefly) in all of the above.
  • *Should* be safe for plastics (and plastic containers.)

  • I'll see how the bases turn out (no harm done if they are destroyed).

    If I have any issues, I'll be sure to branch out!


    Ready to go...


    Go!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/13 06:26:05


    Post by: Arakasi



    Doesn't look like much after 24hrs...


    But pretty good after a first scrub with a toothbrush!

    Observations
  • Wasn't able to get everything cleared in one go, especially crevices (that's okay, just put them back in!)
  • I probably want to rotate though the minis faster so that everyone gets a bit of a scrub before spending more time in the tank.
  • The two models with existing base colours seemed to come off in layers, and were also the ones most in need of a second dunk.
  • Top left pretty much came out perfect in one go.
  • Most separated from their bases (superglued, badly, an aeon ago).
  • Top right finished early due to the next two items:
  • Spiky miniatures plus thin gloves equals hole-y gloves and methylated spirit fingers
  • Even in a ventilated area, I think I may want a mask.
  • I'm going to need a strainer and additional containers to effectively reuse the Methylated Spirits.
  • Can you tell which edge of the base was out of the liquid?

  • Going to get thicker gloves, a mask, and I probably shouldn't be risking my eyes either - I'm pretty sure I have some protective glasses, although side protection might be good too...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/13 06:44:23


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    Those are some classic models. I think you'll enjoy painting them-- stripping and repainting my old models is something I do every once in a while to recharge my batteries.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/14 06:39:57


    Post by: Arakasi


    I'm sure I will, although my initial goal is to strip, experiment, repeat.


    Scrub number two. Mostly close to perfect. I was a little disappointed the Chaos Champion, Chaos Thug and Thug (far left, bottom to top) didn't seem to progress any further with the extra day. I think I need either a stiffer brush or to take a toothpick to some of the crevices. Hopefully I haven't diluted my Methylated Spirits already.

    I doubled up on gloves on my left hand, but using pliers to hold the miniature by the tab resulted in no holes today. I found my "disposable" mask and protective glasses, so other than looking like a thug, things felt a lot safer today.

    Giving the five good ones one last day to soak. I will see what I can do to assist the other three... then I probably need to start thinking about priming and my first paint experiments...

    Catchya.
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/14 09:39:50


    Post by: Snrub


    Arakasi, Nice to see you working again!

    Underworlds is mad fun. I convinced the missus to play it with me and she started to thoroughly enjoy it after she realised she could kick my arse. That Mollog is a brutal bastard.

    Regarding the stripping. You seem to have things in hand, but I thought I'd throw in my observations.
    IPA is my go to now for plastics. It's safe on plastics, it's quick acting, it's effective and you get quite a few minis stripped before it starts to lose it's mojo.
    Nail polish remover is the best for metals though i've found. IPA works very well too, but the acetone just edges it out.


    And don't worry, i'll remind you about your knights! I'm super keen to see you finish them off.


    Looking forward to seeing you lay some paint down on those chaos boys.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/01/18 06:43:47


    Post by: Arakasi


    Hey Snrub, welcome to attempt two!

    I enjoy Underworlds, although I haven't played much. More than 8th Edition 40K, but that is setting the bar fairly low Mostly "practise" games against my brother (his competition practise), who is a lot more into it. Still, I managed to slide into 16th in a Grand Clash last year (out of 30, my brother made 10th, and beat me in a pairing of course), using borrowed, well, everything.

    I struggle to find a middle point in gaming and hobbies. I tend to be all in or nothing. At this point I'm closer to nothing on Underworlds, trying to avoid all in and the additional plastic shame

    Is IPA worth the extra cost? It was my next stop if the MS didn't pan out. They are still soaking, but more because I've been busy. And I haven't bought toothpicks yet. But I have remembered I have a "custom" scuplting tool with a fine point...

    Anyway, on with the blog...

    Next week I lose access to my hobby (travel) but will hopefully take posession of Rippa's Snarlfangs (present). I went looking through my pile of shame for "closer" miniatures to practise on, and this is what I found:


    Nasty Skulkers...


    .. and Orc Boars (minus the Boys - well, I found the boys, but I don't need them for practising just now. Also, they are missing the arm that attaches to the boar for some reason)

    I doubt I will get to these before I leave, but I may just take them with me and see if I can clean them up / assemble them in readiness for the week after.

    I also need to start looking into paint. I may be able to sort some of that out next week too. I'm thinking a "realistic" paint job - wolves inspired by nature, a patchwork of different shades of leather, rusted metal weapons and shields. I suspect the focal point will end up being the bright green of the goblins. If I ever painted an "inspired" version I think I'd go bright Roman soldier colours (how I imagine the goblins *think* they look).

    Thanks for checking in,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/01 14:57:54


    Post by: Arakasi


    I've been holding out updating here pending a picture of something interesting, but at this rate that could be a while...

    So while there isn't any visible progress, there has been some progress.

    What hasn't progressed:
  • Chaos metal miniatures are still soaking
  • Plastic miniature stripping test hasn't started
  • Nasty Skulkers and Orc Boars barely touched
  • Limbo arrival date unknown

  • What has progressed:
  • Purchased toothpicks and thicker gloves to assist with paint stripping
  • Purchased container and sponge for wet palette
  • Purchased (hopefully better) dropper bottles and agitators (stainless steel, marine grade) - due Feb 18-24
  • Planning a colour scheme for Rippa's Snarlfangs - see below
  • Purchased (with Christmas money) Rippa's Snarlfangs and paints - due Feb 6-10

  • The Games Workshop paint job of Rippa's Snarlfangs is... pretty boring.
    Spoiler:

    Probably the closest idea from Games Workshop to what I have in mind is the Thunderwolf Cavalry, Canis Wolfborn and Wolf Lord on Thunderwolf.
    Spoiler:

    Nature is even better?
    Spoiler:

    I'd love to do the black wolf if I thought I could do it justice. Also trying to stay away from lighter colours as I don't want to drag the focus from the riders.

    Anyway, all this planning led to a list of resources too:
  • How to Paint: Rippa's Snarlfangs
  • WHTV Tip of the Day: Moonclan Grot Skin.
  • Space Wolves - Painting a Thunderwolf.
  • WHTV Tip of the Day - Leather.
  • WHTV Tip of the Day: Red Grot Noses
  • WHTV Tip of the day: Fur and Pelts.
  • WHTV Tip of the Day: Red-Brown Gor Fur
  • WHTV Tip of the Day: Gor Skin and Fur
  • mcmattila's hobby projects - 40k, AoS, Underworlds - cloaks recipes

  • I think that is it for now

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/08 11:20:49


    Post by: Snrub


    With the IPA, I did find it to be worth the cost. It cost like $25 for half a litre and I think so far, i've stripped uhh.... 120+ minis with it, and it's still got some kick left in it.
    Wouldn't have got anywhere near the same amount out of the equivalent of the likes of Simple Green. Plus the IPA has the advantage of being quick acting. I was letting plastics sit for half hour and then scrubbing paint right off, where Simple Green was minimum 24 hours if not longer for some things.


    With the wolfies. A pack of black wolves would be stunning. And would be well worth the effort invested in them. I really like the red wolves though. They're almost dingo like.

    If you're feeling reeeeeally adventurous you could try something like this...

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8QwEhRHGT8/


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/09 07:38:01


    Post by: Arakasi


    Hey Snrub!

    Well, I'll see how I go with my $4.50/L methylated spirits ($4 if I'd bought the non violet one - doh ) given I've already paid for that, and give the IPA a go next .

    I have a plastic test case ready to go - I'll time it at 30m and see how it compares:


    I'll see how I go with my test models before committing to three black wolves. I'll be happy to include one. On the plus side, they shouldn't draw attention from the riders. Speaking of which - test models are assembled awaiting primer:


    With reference to your linked example, not so "not adventurous" so much as "not the direction I was planning to go". Nicely done though. It does suffer from the brighter wolf drawing the eye over the darker smaller rider, which I'm trying to avoid...

    Anyway - I hope to have some paint on the above soon. Rippa's Snarlfangs have arrived, so they need assembly. I had hoped not to have to make any customisations to Rippa's Snarlfangs, but there is just one element I can't abide by... (anyone want to try to guess?)

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/12 06:43:35


    Post by: Arakasi


    30m Methylated Spirits vs Plastic Chaos Beastman


    Also, calling 5 of 8 metals done. Last three I've started poking with a toothpick, which is succeeding in moving some of the paint caught in the gaps, but we aren't 100% there yet (so still bathing, for lack of a better place to store currently).

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/13 04:32:12


    Post by: Arakasi



    Test pieces undercoated / primed. I feel paint coming on!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/13 07:19:09


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    Those metal thugs are remarkably clean. I'm more than a little jealous of the guy with the pistols. I don't think I've ever seen that one in real life.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/13 15:44:06


    Post by: youwashock


    Old minis rule. The armored Chaos Warrior is one of my favorites from that range.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/18 14:20:00


    Post by: Ezki


    Glad that you decided to get back to the hobby!
    Good write up regarding the stripping process! It's always interesting to see how the different chemicals work.

    I have had some success with Fairy Power Spray. It just takes a while (1-2 days) to remove most of the paint.
    Anyway, it's always hard work to remove all the paint. Especially on models that have been primed multiple times, like the ones I got from a friend.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/02/20 09:44:46


    Post by: Snrub


    Ooh those Beastmen came out brand spankers! Looks like metho's a goer then.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/01 07:19:23


    Post by: Arakasi


    G'day,

    I should be putting Mean-eye together, and perhaps I will after this, but instead I'm providing this update .

    @JoshInJapan: Well, they've only ever had that one base coat from, probably, 1992? So they are basically "new" . I think they came in random packs. I'm pretty sure I used to buy whatever I could find with "Chaos" on it back then, as I started in Warhammer Fantasy with a Chaos army... Not a lot of availability back then on the West side of Oz... (or at least as far as I recall...)

    @youwashock: They do. Dissapointed I managed to get rid of my Orks from that time period. Now happy I failed to get rid of anything else . If I can work out what to do with them, I'll ressurect more...

    @Ezki: Welcome! Glad to be back, albeit still ramping back up again. Thankfully I think all of my strip targets are self inflicted.

    @Snrub: It's got a bit of the white undercoat still on it, but yes, I was very happy with how it came up in 30m. (I actually have an untarnished one to compare it to as well).

    So, I haven't been up to much. The week back at home has been waylaid by home improvements. But I do have a little progress to share.

    First up - the one modification I had to make to Rippa's Snarlfangs:
    Spoiler:

    Rippa Narkbad's base - before.


    Rippa Narkbad's base - after.


    Stabbit


    Together, but with a small gap down the snout I'm going to have to attempt to fill with liquid greenstuff (as well as the other seam lines). I don't think I applied enough / any plastic glue in the snout, so no amount of pushing together really helped. These miniatures are a lot smaller / more delicate than I had assumed they would be. My brother also alerted me (afterwards) that the pegs of Underworlds miniatures can sometimes be a little too long - so I'll cut them down a bit on the next two as well, just in case.

    Thanks for tuning in!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/03 13:30:12


    Post by: Arakasi


    So much for Mean-eye. I promised myself as part of my 2020 hobby resurrection year I would enter the Dakka Painting Challenge once the annual rotation kicked off. It has still managed to sneak up on me, but here we are. I'll only have two weeks available this month (three from next month) - so we'll see how I go. Luckily I have this Dark Vengeance Dark Angels Terminator that I prepared five (probably more) years ago. Unluckily I undercoated it black back then. He has been de-dusted for his "proof" picture.

    Have even started painting!

    Proof (of paint).

    4 layers and counting...
    Spoiler:


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/08 07:15:17


    Post by: Arakasi


    Progress continues on my Dakka Painting Challenge entry.


    I have more progress photos and steps, and I really need to document them before I forget them, but I also need to keep painting while I am motivated!

    Catchya,

    Arakasi


    Automatically Appended Next Post:
    Some pictures of my newly set up wet palette:
    Spoiler:

    In all its brand new glory.


    Test drive with Zandri Dust.


    Left for a week (you can see the paint has separated).


    Mixed back together - still good!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/08 13:28:13


    Post by: gobert


    Deathwing Terminator is looking cool, is the screaming skull layered on or dry brushed?

    Your wet palette looks the business too. I think I need to upgrade mine as it doesn’t seal at all so it drys out within a week.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/09 06:27:16


    Post by: Arakasi


    It's supposed to be layered on, not drybrushed . I obviously need to work more on my transistions. I'm hoping that this is a practise and patience thing. This is the first model I have painted in a long time...

    Current state:

    This is just a repeat of the previous step - a 1:1 mix of Screaming Skull and Ushabti Bone - but all over rather than just the edges. I figured I need to get closer to white, and I still have pure Screaming Skull and a mix to pure White Scar available to me for edge highlighting. (Although I'm waiting on delivery of the White Scar plus other colours for the other areas.)

    Steps to here spoilered below:
    Spoiler:


    Last pure Zandri Dust layer.


    Seraphim Sepia wash.


    Re-apply Zandri Dust.


    1:1 Zandri Dust and Ushabti Bone


    Ushabti Bone


    1:1 Ushabti Bone and Screaming Skull pictured before, just the edges.


    I've also started playing with base colours for fur, specifically:

    Doombull Brown, Dryad Bark, Jokaero Orange, Mechanicus Standard Grey, Mournfang Brown, Rhinox Hide, Steel Legion Drab, Zandri Dust.


    On Skull White base.


    On Mechanicus Standard Grey base.


    On Chaos Black base. (Looks like this one needs at least another layer...)

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/09 06:37:35


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    The layering on the terminator looks pretty smooth to me. I'm sure it looks even better in real life and at arm's length.

    Before I read your captions, I was impressed by the bold direction you were taking with those boars.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/09 23:03:37


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Good to see you active again!

    Termi looks good so far, returning to that colour stuff is always a task.

    And I for one welcome our stripey tusked overlords


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/15 00:01:07


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    I found your thread! Entertain me!!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/15 08:22:55


    Post by: Arakasi


    @JoshInJapan: Yes, layering looks better in real life. You can see every mistake in the full size uploaded images though. Good for finding room for improvement, not worth dwelling on. I keep telling myself, this *is* the first miniature I've painted in, five years or more? It doesn't need to be perfect (and has no chance of being either.)

    @monkeytroll: Good to be active again, and welcome back to you too! I see you have entered the Dakka Painting Challenge as well - good luck . Hopefully the stripey tusked overlords will get some more love soon, if only so I can decide what undercoat to use on Rippa's Snarlfangs (although so far, Mechanicus Standard Grey is looking pretty good...)

    @Gitsplitta: Welcome! Your entertainment is obviously the super secret primary goal of this thread . There will be no Bushido though . I plan to also join the Fight the Pile of Shame in 2020, which mostly amounts to *stop purchasing*.

    Latest progress on the Deathwing Terminator:

    Bone completed. Starting base colours on details - Leadbelcher, Mephiston Red, Mechanicus Standard Grey, Rakarth Flesh (I'm waiting on Caliban Green to arrive this week....)

    This was going to be the last update for the week, and I was just happy to finish the bone before heading back up to the big smoke. However, my work has decided I may continue working from home next week, so I am feeling optimistic on finishing on time (before end of month.)

    As I basecoat the detail areas, I just keep finding more and more detail - he has feathers on his right foot, a sheathed dagger under his right arm and purity seals *everywhere*.

    Thinking about a Necromunda blue base - althought silver / bronze would probably be safer - any thoughts?

    Progress steps from last time in spoiler (with many step by step progress pics):
    Spoiler:

    Pure Screaming Skull layer.


    Screaming Skull/Skull White 2:1 edge highlights.


    Screaming Skull/Skull White 1:1 edge highlights towards all points, raised edges.


    Pure Skull White on just the points. This completes the bone armour. Amazingly, I've used a base coat brush for all of this (except the Seraphim Sepia wash, which was with a wash brush.)


    Start of base coating detail areas - Leadbelcher, Mephiston Red and Mechanicus Standard Grey. I had to break out my fine detail brush for the eyes and targeter(?), and my starter brush for the other areas edges.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/15 10:11:33


    Post by: Briancj


    Welcome back! The terminator is looking great! Sad about the boars not being a real thing.

    --Brian



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/15 16:40:58


    Post by: gobert


    Looking like the Terminator will become a triumphant return! Really nice blends between the layers. I’m liking the step by step pics in the spoilers too, it’s good getting an insight in to how others work


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/15 21:49:38


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Nice work on the layering.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/18 22:48:24


    Post by: Snrub


    Good to see you painting Arakasi!

    The termie is coming along nicely and I feel your pain about painting bone. Not that it's much use to you know, but I know some people throw a layer of mid-tone brown between the black undercoat and first bone layer. Helps give it an intermdiate stage and helps with shading later on.
    But those DV models are super detailed, there's bits to paint everywhere.
    A Blue or blue-grey base would nicely for him I think. Give a bit of contrast to the bone. Even better if you haven't used blue else where on him.


    As far as the boars go, I'm inclined towards the black undercoat. But then I prefer darker, "realistic" paint jobs. So YMMV of course. For actual fur colour though, I'd be using a couple of differen colours. Stick with the brown or two and then throw in an orange or a tan every now and again to break things up.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/19 05:49:53


    Post by: Arakasi


    JoshInJapan wrote:Before I read your captions, I was impressed by the bold direction you were taking with those boars.
    monkeytroll wrote:And I for one welcome our stripey tusked overlords
    Briancj wrote:Sad about the boars not being a real thing.
    I'm feeling like I need to make sure I go crazy on something in the future, on purpose. Apparently it is what the readership demands?

    Snrub wrote:But then I prefer darker, "realistic" paint jobs.
    Snrub wrote:If you're feeling reeeeeally adventurous you could try something like this...

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B8QwEhRHGT8/
    I'm sensing some Jekyll and Hyde? (although that link probably is a black undercoat...)

    Seriously though...

    @Briancj - Thanks and welcome!

    @gobert - Thanks. While I mainly provide step by step instructions and pictures for my future self, I do greatly appreciate it when I come across it in other blogs too for the same reason. It's quite a bit of extra work though, so I fully understand why everyone doesn't do it!

    @monkeytroll - Thanks.

    @Snrub - Thanks. I still have the other four terminators, three of which are similiarly prepared (just not the duplicate), so still time to throw a layer of mid-tone brown on the next one. Even then, the advice wouldn't be wasted - who knows who else might be in a similar situation? I'm still up for the blue/blue-grey base. It is actually constructed with broken tiles and I have been wondering what to put beneath - black, brown, or currently thinking a dark metallic - and maybe hazard stripes across the thin border... As for the boars, I need to put another layer over the black so each base coat is working from the same foundation. I'll then be trying different colour combinations on top of each to work out which I prefer - so never fear - they were never going to remain a single colour .

    And now, to the progress segment.

    I received my Caliban Green, and now I think everything (except the stormbolter casing, which is waiting on finishing the the stormbolter metal, oh and the dagger tassel, I think that's it...) has been base coated. The purity seal parchments required multiple layers of Rakarth Flesh to cover the black, but most of the rest went over in one to two layers, although I'll probably give the purity seal seals another coat of Screamer Pink. Some Abbaddon Black in the joints too. The Caliban Green, Leadbelcher and Mechanicus Standard Grey has all been washed with Nuln Oil, while the purity seal parchment and Balthasar Gold has had an Agrax Earthshade wash. I'm leaving the Mephiston Red until I get the stormbolter casing done. It is really starting to come together now.

    Finer progress steps and pictures in the spoiler.
    Spoiler:

    Many layers of Rakarth Flesh on the purity seal parchments.


    Caliban Green! (and Balthasar Gold.)


    All the washes. (The Caliban Green, Leadbelcher and Mechanicus Standard Grey has all been washed with Nuln Oil, while the purity seal parchment and Balthasar Gold has had an Agrax Earthshade wash.)

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/19 05:59:41


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    That termie is looking good. All that layering on the armor is really effective.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/19 13:41:05


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    Now that's lovely Arakasi. Really nice work.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/19 17:32:54


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Looking great Arakasi.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/19 19:15:54


    Post by: CommissarKhaine


    Please tell me there's an orky dark angel in there!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/19 20:14:52


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    I really appreciate blogs that include experimenting and working through problems! I'm impressed by the thought going into the fur design for the wolves.

    As has been said, and warrants saying again: Dark Angel looking fab. In particular, your painting is very neat - you clearly have really tight brush control (this is also evident on the boars' stripes). Impressive that it was all done with a layer brush!

    Looking forward to how this progresses!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/19 23:39:02


    Post by: monkeytroll


    I think it's safe to say that a certain percentage of the readership craves crazy of varying degrees....

    Coming along nicely.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/23 13:20:13


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thank you for all of your comments!

    @JoshInJapan: Thank you.

    @Gitsplitta: Thank you.

    @Captain Brown: Welcome and thank you.

    @CommissarKhaine: Welcome back! An Orky Dark Angel would not be found dead in such a clean, unkustomised piece of kit!

    @Don Qui Hotep: Welcome! Brush control - or patience - must come with age. Either that or I am suitably rested from my long break in the hobby . Hopefully I can get back to the boars before the next round of the monthly competition. Thank you.

    @monkeytroll: Indeed, and thank you.

    I think I'm done! Well, apart from getting some proper photos / trialling the lightbox I bought ages ago.


    Progression pictures (and what I remember of the steps, lots of small steps across many areas!) in the spoiler:
    Spoiler:

    Building up the green (Caliban Green / Warpstone Glow.) First base coat of Mephiston Red on the stormbolter. Leadbelcher on the base.


    Building up the green, (Warpstone Glow), Purity Seals (Rakarth Flesh / Pallid Wych Flesh, Screamer Pink / Pink Horror, and Crux Terminatus (Mechanicus Standard Grey / Skavenblight Dinge). Probably missed the wash stages of these (in my notes, not the mini!) - Nuln Oil, Agrax Earthshade, Nuln Oil. I Must have done the metal by now too - Nuln Oil, Leadbelcher and then Stormhost Silver. More layers of Mephiston Red.


    Green is finished with Warpstone Glow / Moot Green (couldn't bring myself to go to pure Moot Green). Washed red with old Asurmen Blue wash (a trick I remember from my Orks).


    Keep bringing up the Purity Seals mixing in White Scar (to Pallid Wych Flesh) and Emperor's Children (to Pink Horror). Do the tie on the dagger in the same parchment colours. Base the feathers in Pallid Wych Flesh.


    Purity Seals complete up to White Scar and Emperor's Children. Crux Terminatus complete up to Stormvermin Fur. Mephiston Red through Evil Sunz Scarlet to Wild Rider Red 1:1 edge highlights on stormbolter.


    Additional metal and bronze areas complete. Caliban Green on feathers, Nuln Oil wash, highlight with Pallid Wych Flesh and Warpstone Glow. Start base starting with Macragge Blue and Averland Sunset. That's the only new blue I seem to have, so mix with rescued Regal Blue, pure Regal Blue, mix with Shadow Grey then pure Shadow Grey.


    Stormbolter swords in Leadbelcher, Nuln Oil, Leadbelcher, Stormhost Silver. Bronze is Balthasar Gold, Agrax Earthshade, Balthasar Gold, Gehenna's Gold, Auric Armur Gold (didn't bother with mixes given how small the areas are.)


    Dirtying up the base, adding hazard stripes.


    Completed the base with various washes - Nuln Oil, Agrax Earthshade, Serapim Sepia, stippled black over the hazard stripes, did the rim in Macragge Blue. Gloss Varnish for the lens.

    Catchya!
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/23 16:14:57


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    Lovely!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/23 17:46:04


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Good job


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/24 09:04:41


    Post by: Snrub


    Ooh. The blue works so well with that. Nicely done, mate!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/26 12:25:11


    Post by: Arakasi



    On today's episode, I will attempt to prepare better photos for judging in the competition / gallery. The best of which may be seen above.

    First, thank you Gitsplitta, monkeytroll and Snrub for stopping by with your comments.

    I knew where my lightbox was (not a given), but I thought I would also seek out my Dreadfleet drop cloth as it would probably make for a good background. Little did I know, I was also to discover...


    ...long lost styrene supplies (and model kit instructions) - bonus!


    Here is my lightbox, packed up as it has been for over three (possibly eight?) years.


    Unpacked. I know it is less than eight years old, as it has Australian and not UK power plugs . I had forgotten it comes with different back drop colours, so I may not need the Dreadfleet cloth afterall. There are also a few other pieces that I think may have just been packed with it during a move and are not related at all.


    The lightbox set up, including my painting light for a third light source. I didn't seem to be having much luck with the light sources outside the box on the left and right, but directed in from the front seems to work.


    I used a packaging box to lift the model off the table so the light would strike it rather than go over it. It would also allow me to take pictures from directly in front rather than from above. Here I am all set up for the first shoot.


    However, the result did not work out quite as well as I had planned / hoped .

    I switched to the dark blue back drop, brought the lamps in closer, and did my best to focus with my iPhone. This ended up with the first image in this post and the two below:

    Side and back.

    Other photos did not make the grade and have not been uploaded to the gallery or here. Mainly issues with shadows or focus.

    My next step is to decide whether these three are good enough to submit as is, or whether I want to create a collage. I'm leaning towards the collage. Let me know if there are any details you think I should definitely include or not include, or make a better attempt at photoing.

    Next round looks like it will be an open / pile of shame round. Jadenim suggested a sub challenge of "find the oldest mini that you've never painted". I have a couple of untouched Chaos Warriors and Marauders tagged 1985 that might just do...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/26 16:15:34


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Definitely works well with the blue backdrop, very nice.

    Bonus find on the styrene


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/26 17:12:47


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    I have that exact same light set up. My problem is with the bulbs... they have all kinds of strange shades coming out of them that really alter the color of the models I've been trying to photograph with them. Had to switch to other lights.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/27 12:09:41


    Post by: Arakasi



    I think I can live with the above .

    Thanks again monkeytroll.

    Gitsplitta, the lights do appear a little weird, but I'm happy with the outcome for now. I guess I should look for matching bulbs across all of my lamps and see if I can do better.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/28 12:16:06


    Post by: Arakasi


    In today's episode, I'd like to introduce you to:


    Gladstone the Large, Chaos Warrior (including a better angle to view his shield.)


    Cedric Hammerhand, Chaos Warrior.


    Zarygor Bloodrage, Chaos Warrior.


    Lunkop Banesmite, Chaos Marauder.

    These are currently my planned entries for round 62 of the Dakka Painting Challenge (TBA), pending the theme remaining as open / pile of shame and making sure I have all of the paints I'll need - either new, old and still viable, or actually purchaseable given the current environment. They meet a possible sub theme of "find the oldest mini that you've never painted" - none have ever seen paint (which ruled out my stripped miniatures earlier in this thread - if I'm being strict - as well as some even earlier miniatures I put in the Show-Off Your Retro and Out of Print Models! thread) and have tags of 1985. Yes, there are four. I can always enter less if timing becomes an issue.

    Interestingly, according to Chaos Marauders - F5, the original Chaos Marauder range were placed into the Chaos Warrior and Chaos Thug ranges in the 1988 Citadel Catalog. This is why Zarygor Bloodrage is listed online as a Chaos Warrior, even though his tab says Marauder. It looks like some of my stripped Marauders (by tag) are actually Chaos Thugs (online) for the same reason. Not that it seems to matter for anyone other than Zarygor - all of the other Marauders appear to have been classified as Thugs (I think the dividing line might be full armour or not), and Thugs seem to fall in line with the new Marauder concept... Long story short, I'm now educated and less confused... and maybe now so are you .

    Dilemma number one - which shields to equip Gladstone and Cedric with? I've pictured them with the ones I'm leaning towards, based on online research, but I have more options as shown below:


    Additional shield options for Gladstone and Cedric.

    Dilemma number two - bases. They came with square bases (of course!). I have them in 25mm round slotta bases for photography only. To match a possible future Chaos Army (ignoring Warhammer The Old World), I'm thinking of keeping Lunkop on 25mm round to go with current Chaos Marauders and moving the other three to 32mm round to go with current Chaos Warriors. For some reason I appear to have 32mm round (non slotta) bases. I wonder what I am stealing them from?

    Dilemma number three - paint scheme. Given I started my new paint journey with bone, how do I up the challenge from there? White of course! White armour, gold chain, rivets and details, dark brown leathers / cloth, red bloodied hand print on helmet, possibly shields. I haven't really decided on the colour of the weapons, or base, other than they will probably need to be darker to offset the white. I can mix in purple for any robes in the future. Oh, and I plan to beat up the armour with scratches (dark brown to silver) and small amounts of blood splatter.

    That's all for now.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/28 12:40:07


    Post by: Vejut


    I'm a fan of the embossed sheilds, but I can see where the mounting might get weird and the sheilds a bit large.

    Bases wise, honestly I'd stick with 25mm round or square, probably square for overlap reasons, you can always up 'em on a bigger insert or a placeholder base if you need to use them with the new stuff (on the other hand, I'm a bit of a grog, and don't really plan to do much with AOS, so it may make sense to move 'em up--I'd just be worried they'd end up looking a bit puny and lost.)


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/28 14:24:50


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Ahh, some old-skool goodness indeed.

    No real idea on the bases as I don't p!ay, but I'd probably switch them to round myself.

    Love all the old shield designs - choice wise I'd say it depends on whether you want to attempt some green and on the embossed versions of not.

    Bold choice with white. You're definitely looking to push it up there - which is after all the point of a challenge I guess



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/28 20:44:17


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    I love those old Chaos models. I keep mine on square bases because of nostalgia, which is also why I use the older, non-embossed shields. I've never seen Chaos warriors in white armor, though, so that should be a treat.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 00:51:51


    Post by: Snrub


    Deathwing came out really good! The blue base works for it so well.

    Love the old school chaos range. Lots of really good characterful sculpts. Probably may favourite line of all the old-hammer. And I am 100% all for square bases. They just don't have the same zazz on round bases.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 03:17:09


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Vejut: Yeah, those embossed shields are quite large, and the old Chaos Warriors on the smaller side. Perhaps better suited for some old Chaos Knights, but, I have more embossed shields than old Chaos knights, so that doesn't rule them out. When I was playing with it, I think I can get the smallest embossed shield on Gladstone without it looking too large, and without too many difficulties. Cedric's mounting point is in a tough position that favours narrower shields. The one I have him pictured with was the widest I could easily muster, and mainly because of the notches. As for the bases, I was only concerned Zarygor might look a little lost on a 32mm - Gladstone already extends past 25mm and Cedric's hammer and shield do too - but Zarygor seems fine too. I haven't made up my mind yet.

    @monkeytroll: I think auto correct might have done a number on your shields thought - I can't quite work out the guist of it!

    @JoshInJapan: Given they are unlikely to be played as well (and I can always rebase and perhaps repaint them later if it became an issue), maybe the nostagia of square bases wins out? Do I even attempt to have them able to be lined up?

    @Snrub: Feeling like a general, well, perhaps stronger, consensus towards square bases - I'll give them another whirl.

    Thanks for the feedback,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 04:48:10


    Post by: Briancj


    Of COURSE you make them so they rank up. If you're going in, go ALL the way in.

    --Brian



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 06:03:29


    Post by: Viterbi


    Good lord, those chaos models are nearly as old as I am I too would go with square bases, if you don‘t plan on playing with them. Looks more old school and as others have said, you can still rebase later.

    And nice work on the Dark Angel terminator, armour in that color is no easy feat!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 07:41:14


    Post by: JoshInJapan


     Arakasi wrote:


    @JoshInJapan: Given they are unlikely to be played as well (and I can always rebase and perhaps repaint them later if it became an issue), maybe the nostagia of square bases wins out? Do I even attempt to have them able to be lined up?

    Arakasi


    In my experience, these old Chaos models rank up pretty well if you treat the unit like a jigsaw puzzle. Just make sure to mount Cedric and Lunkop diagonally.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 10:08:49


    Post by: gobert


    Cool Oldhammer, I think square bases are the right way to go on minis that old. Really intrigued to see how the white armour comes along.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 10:46:59


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Gah! Posting on a tablet is painful sometimes. I was thinking embossed shields would be better if you wanted to try out some freehand on them


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 13:37:11


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: I'm only a mere decade older than them myself .

    @monkeytroll: Freehand on the embossed shields? Surely freehand on the plain shields would be easier? Or are you trying to make my life harder? Of course, I could break out the greenstuff and "emboss" the plain shields myself...

    @Everyone: You've convinced me. I'm going full retro with square bases. Pictures hopefully tomorrow.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/29 14:04:15


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Errr....can I blame that on autocorrect too


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/30 13:22:57


    Post by: Arakasi


    I'll allow it .


    With the decision to go completely old skool with square bases, I went back to my old Chaos Warriors and Chaos Thugs to think about positioning.

    My conclusion? I think the slotta-base ones are a trap that my younger self easily fell into. The main problem would appear to be the ones that will look like they are peering off... over there - if placed on the diagonal. That would be the two on the right above. But, if I have them face slightly off centre, it appears to work - and works for the others as well. So a new plan formed...


    First, I marked a common gaze point on four non slotta bases (just using white paint.) This is one quarter in from the right, or approximately 6mm.


    I then did my best attempt to line up the miniature face direction with this mark, whilst also attempting to keep the miniature centred on the base. I marked the end of the tags in each case.


    My reminder for later that I used the 1.6mm drill bit to...


    ...drill holes inside the tag marks.


    Then drill along the line, using my steel rule as a guide. Halve and halve again until no spots are left.


    Then use my hobby knife to cut out the slot.


    Finally use my file to straighten everything out. I had to use my hobby knife to extend the ends as well. (Just scrape back and forth.)


    And you end up with the above. If you are lucky, on your first try. I ended up having three goes at Cedric - the first was too far to his left, the second to far to his right (in spoilers below.) Best bit? No holes to fill!
    Spoiler:

    Now I have the shield dilemma.


    Gladstone with the smallest embossed shield, in the correct orientation, front and top. I really think this is too big .


    Gladstone with the smallest embossed shield, in the incorrect orientation, front and top. The shield would fit better this way... still too big I think .


    Gladstone with the narrow plain shield, in the correct orientation, front and top. Not very impressive.


    Gladstone with the curved plain shield, in the correct orientation, front and top. Maybe...


    Cedric with the long wide curved plain shield, in the correct orientation, front and side. Maybe...


    Cedric with the plain shield, in the correct orientation, side. Maybe...

    I'm starting to think, prompted by attempting to comprehend monkeytroll's ipad mutterings, to go with the curved plain shields and attempt my own greenstuff embossing. To that end, I went looking for what Chaos symbols and icons I might have available to me...


    Chaos Terminator shoulder pads, Chaos Terminator Lord shoulder pads and bits.

    The Powerfist icon looks promising, as does the leg. I could see the shoulder pad icons being better suited to shorter/wider shields - but they would still work.

    Thoughts?

    Catchya,
    Arakasi



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/30 20:09:07


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    I do like the plain curved shields, but I agree that some details would suit them. I've actually often felt that chaos power armor greaves have some of the most interesting detail-work. I think it would be a good candidate. For the shoulderpads, I wonder if the curve of them would make it a bit tricky to apply, although I suppose you could try and flatten the mold after you remove the pad but before it cures. I only recently tried experimenting with greenstuff molding, and it was surprisingly forgiving.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/03/30 21:40:17


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Err...that's exactly what I was trying to suggest....honest and


    A classic take on the plain shields is to chop the face off a suitable head and use that as the decoration. Skulls being an obvious choice, but screaming faces, demon or orc heads, maybe even a CSM head for that old-school anachronistic look?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/01 13:31:23


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Don Qui Hotep: Unfortunately, I don't have any Chaos Power Armour. (Actually, I might, I have Dark Vengeance, and as it happens, Dark Imperium as well, so I need to go check that out now...). We'll see how my first attempts below pan out...

    @monkeytroll: But that would use up valuable bits! If the press moulds below don't turn out, I'll probably have to give it serious consideration though...


    Officially entered round 62 of the Dakka Painting Challenge with these guys.


    Press moulds of Chaos icons. Left four above are trimmed / cleaned up.


    Press moulds in action. Have to wait until tomorrow night to see how successful (or otherwise) they were. Tried a different method with some left over green stuff and the leg piece.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 00:09:16


    Post by: monkeytroll


    See, that'll be because my first instinct is always to reach for the knife and

    Well, you created a nice selection of moulds for future use. Let's see how the first one goes...


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 12:30:34


    Post by: gobert


    Hopefully you have better luck than my press moulds, I got the green stuff stuck in the mould more oil and more/less waiting next time I guess


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 13:21:41


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: I'm trying new things . See results below...

    @gobert: I'm using bee balm stolen from my wife, applied with a base brush. I think what I was looking for was a wax or wax like substance rather than oil - but apparently I never wrote down why... I've let both the moulds and the icons wait 24 hours before touching them.


    Success!


    The shield icons needed cleaning up, and ended up coming away from the shields - but they kept the curve. Not a bad thing, as I didn't manage to line them up perfectly. A bit of superglue and presto!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 13:38:46


    Post by: Viterbi


    Nice work with the moulds, shields are looking great!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 14:46:52


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Well, that worked well


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 15:43:17


    Post by: Ezki


    Those molds seemed to work really well!
    Looking good so far.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 19:14:25


    Post by: gobert


    Great job on the moulds, I’ll be trying again with more oil and being more patient. Might have to see if there is any Vaseline or similar I can pinch if that doesn’t work... my wife and kids have mountains of lip balm so that’ll probably work too!

    Oh and great idea on marking up their bases so they have a common focal point, genius!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/02 19:56:01


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Congrats on successful mold-making! It's great how a relatively recent chaos sculpt still fits the aesthetics of these older baddies.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/03 13:28:20


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thanks everyone.

    Quick update - Chaos guys have been cleaned up. I forgot how painful cleaning up metal models was. On the plus side, I'm not modifying them...

    Next dilemma - bases - again. Given the need for a darker colour to contrast the white armour, and as some may have dark brown leather boots, I'm leaning towards a dusty red/brown over a muddy dark brown. Thinking Martian Ironearth - if I can acquire some. I also have various grades of sand, flock, Middenland Tufts, skulls and watch parts. Of course, I only need to deal with what needs to go down before undercoating at the moment - but that needs some thought on the final composition!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/04 13:09:14


    Post by: Arakasi


    Local hobby shop is a) still open, and b) well stocked - so I shouldn't have any supply issues this month - yay! So I bring back one of the rainbow technicolour boarz for...


    Adventures in Martian Ironearth (with a side quest of Balthasar Gold).


    Two layer of Abaddon Black (half of the side burn armour plate), Mephiston Red and Averland Sunset. The armour plate is to test whether the base colour makes a difference under Balthasar Gold. The left red, yellow and grey (Mechanicus Standard Grey primer) will be gloss varnished before applying Martian Ironearth. The right won't.


    As above, but four layers.


    As above but with a fifth and final layer.


    First layer of Balthasar Gold. Coverage (or lack of) is more obvious on the black side. Gloss varnished the left set of base colours.


    Second layer of Balthasar Gold.


    Third and final layer of Balthasar Gold. I can't tell the difference. Conclusion - I don't need to apply a black under layer.


    Thick layer of Martian Ironearth. Applied with my old Sculpting Tool (in first picture) because a) it looks like a texture tool, b) I don't want to spend AU$14 on a GW texture tool and c) I couldn't find one anyway . Results tomorrow.


    Super glued the Chaos Warriors (and Marauder) to their bases. Added a couple of minor details. I'm hoping the Martian Ironearth experiment works out above, in which case I should be able to prime from here. I think I'll experiment with the Middenland Tufts on the rainbow technicolour boar as well.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/05 09:35:18


    Post by: Arakasi


    Adventures in Martian Ironearth - continued!


    First thick layer of Martian Ironearth, dried. You can see the underlying colour showing through. So far, no difference between the glossed (left) or non glossed (right) base colours - although this was more about avoiding flaking that I had heard about. The Mephiston Red base colour looks pretty good by itself. The Averland Sunset was preparation for an attempted lava look (more to come). The Mechanicus Standard Grey was just to see if I needed a base colour (I think the answer is a resounding yes).


    Again, wary of flaking, I've gloss varnished the top half.


    Given how the red turned out, I thought it would be worthwhile trying a black - so I added a thick layer to a Chaos Black undercoated boar.


    Drying over black. Also, preparation (Averland Sunset) for another idea.


    Over the Chaos Black undercoat, the Martian Ironearth appears to be lifting. This was an older spray paint, I wonder if that is the cause?


    Wash of Carroburg Crimson over the original test. This was the next step of the lava test, although it doesn't look bad over the red either.


    Expecting painting individual bits to be hard / frustrating - this is Martian Ironearth applied thickly and mixed with two drops of Chaos Black over the Averland Sunset I prepared earlier. It sort of went more a dark brown (reminds me of Scorched Brown).


    The aforementioned hard / frustrating attempt to paint the raised areas for the lava effect. I could do this. I probably don't want to though.


    Abaddon Black drybrush, mainly over the untouched grey base colour areas. Doesn't look too bad. Will it make filling the raised areas easier?


    A bit. Not enough.


    While I'm here, I decided to try out one of my Middenland Tufts. Apart from being a little out of place on cracked earth / lava, it applied well and I can't see any edges - so win.


    Here you can see the Martian Ironearth mixed with Chaos Black drying, showing the Averland Sunset underneath - promising. I've also prepared three other experiments - Jokaero Orange, Averland Sunset and Armageddon Dust. The first two are to try a new technique with different base colours. The last is a test for mixing Middenland Tufts on a flat base, transitioning to lava cracked earth via Armageddon dust painted black...


    Here I've applied Martian Ironearth thickly over the Jokaero Orange and Averland Sunset, then smoothed out Chaos Black over the top of that.


    Here you can see the dried Martian Ironearth mixed with Chaos Black over Averland Sunset - not bad. I expect it needs a Carroburg Crimson wash. You can also see the Chaos Black over Martian Ironearth over Averland Sunset starting to dry - giving a glossy black on top, hints of red Martian Ironearth underneath and slivers of the Averland Sunset base - promising...


    Chaos Black over Martian Ironearth over Averland Sunset drying - you can see more of the Averland Sunset base showing through. May still need a Carroburg Crimson wash. Is this saying lava to you?


    Same deal over Jokaero Orange. I think the Averland Sunset is winning.


    Finally, as I'm now confident I can work out something for the Chaos Warriors (and Marauder) bases, these bad boys have been undercoated.

    Stay tuned for the next episode of "Adventures in Martian Ironearth" .

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/05 14:50:37


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Good set of tests.

    For lava I'm feeling the drybrush of black, or the averland > ironearth > black work best.

    You should look for Tim Holtz Distress crackle paint if it's available over there - great product, wide range of colours, cheaper than GW. You could also try painting pva glue over a base colour, then a colour on top of that before it dries - however brush application can be tricky for that.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/05 15:45:38


    Post by: Viterbi


    That is dedicated testing! Excited to see your bases on these marauders.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/05 21:23:54


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Again, thanks for showing your process of experimentation! It's great to watch people thinking through hobby problems. My vote for best lava effect is abaddon black drybrush over ironearth over averland sunset, although that produces a more cinematic effect rather than a naturalistic one, so grains of salt.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/06 12:02:17


    Post by: gobert


    Cool detailed experiments. I think monkey troll is right about the Averland then black dry brush being the best most lava looking choice.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/06 13:32:39


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thanks for the feedback peoples. I find it interesting that the consensus so far is for the Averland Sunset > Martian Ironearth > Black drybrush. This one comes out quite red still. My personal leaning is towards the Averland Sunset > Martian Ironearth > Black. It looks perhaps too black and glossy above - it hasn't completely dried (and cracked) in that last image, so maybe the next episode might change your mind?

    @monkeytroll: I'll have a look for Tim Holtz Distress crackle paint, although it and the PVA are probably too late for this round of experimentation...

    Adventures in Martian Ironearth: Episode 3.

    The Averland Sunset / Jokaero Orange > Martian Ironearth > Black finally dried, from above and from the side.


    With a Carroburg Crimson wash over the Martian Ironearth / Black mix, as well as the Averland Sunset and Jokaero Orange bases. I mght want to more carefully target the gaps in the final piece, which might be helped by a gloss varnish over the top first too...


    As above, one side of each drybrushed with Mephiston Red, the other side drybrushed with Eshin Grey then Adminstratum Grey.

    A bit rough, but as I said above, I'm leaning towards the Averland Sunset > Martian Ironearth > Black, but with the Carroburg Crimson wash and drybrushed with Eshin Grey then Adminstratum Grey.

    I may need to do a final side by side test of these last two contenders... (the other being the black dry brush you all like).

    Meanwhile, progress has also started on the Chaos Warriors and Marauder (progress to here in spoiler):
    Spoiler:

    Balthasar Gold (mistake), Rakarth Flesh, Bugman's Glow


    More layers of above, plus Leadbelcher and Rhinox Hide. I tend to find I need at least three layers for complete coverage.


    Went over the Balthasar Gold with Retributor Armour. Then washes of Agrax Earthshade (armour), Reikland Fleshshade (flesh, gold).


    Agrax Earthshade wash over the brown, Nuln Oil over silver.
    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/07 00:51:22


    Post by: monkeytroll


    I'm evenly split between drybrush and paint, either works.

    With the crimson wash I'm not sure if you do need to be careful in targeting the cracks. Having a subtle red note to some of the black velocity the cooking down lava look to my mind. It might not be photo-realistic, but it works to the eye and brain.

    Edit - forgot to mention the warriors. They're mentioned now.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/07 13:10:25


    Post by: Arakasi


    I'm evenly split on the crimson wash being targetted or not . I guess I'll see how I feel later, or actually run that final experiment.


    Going over the Raarth Flesh and Bugman's Glow with more of the same after their washes. Drybrushing Retributor Armour, Auric Armour Gold and Stormhost Silver over the washed Retributor Armour. With that I can start moving out to the next pieces - the leather straps around Lunkop's shins and making a start on the Rakarth Flesh base on Gladstone and Cedric.

    I could have gone Seraphim Sepia wash on Zarygor's armour, but thought I'd go darker with the Agrax Earthshade. I wanted to make sure the contrast was there, and also figured Chaos Warriors wouldn't be keeping their armour immaculate either. I won't really know if I regret that decision until I layer up the armour...

    I'm focusing on getting Gladstone and Cedric's armour done now - so I can do all of the armour together, and also to make sure the gold isn't overpowering. I guess I should finish Lunkop's skin and mace so I can do his at the same time too...

    Thank you for looking.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/07 13:52:35


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    I think it's good progress mate. Keep at it!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/07 15:34:11


    Post by: Viterbi


    Nice start, the sculpts are really characterful and it's good seeing them come to life.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/08 00:33:10


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thank you Gitsplitta and Viterbi.

    Vote For The Winner of the 61st Dakka Painting Challenge: Space Marines is now up - 36 entrants - quantity and quality - go check them out!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 04:46:31


    Post by: Arakasi



    "Hello, my name is Lunkop Banesmite. I sleep in my golden chainmail briefs and booties so that I am ready to deal with home invaders at a moments notice."

    So, the skin, leather straps, mace and boot bottoms are supposed to be complete, while the boot tops and briefs have just had their wash of Reikland Fleshade, pending drybrushes of Retributor Armour, Auric Armour Gold and Stormhost Silver. Once that is done I can concentrate on the armour - along with the other warriors.

    I may need to redo the leather straps .

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 05:11:55


    Post by: Viterbi


    Solid gold boots, I love it What's wrong with the leather straps, they look fine to me. Maybe a little brighter highlight, but that's something I normally don't do myself.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 05:34:23


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    Chainmail boots and briefs? Very interesting-- I went with fur when I (re) painted that guy, but now I kind of wish I'd gone with metal.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 06:06:10


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: I think mostly I see straps highlighted both sides, and with more contrast in the highlights is all.

    @JoshInJapan: It was a close call, but they seemed like they were more likely chain than fur to me, especially with the straps to hold them up/on. Doesn't make much sense - but then - this is Warhammer!

    Public service announcement: Public Vote - LoER Terrain Contest Round 31: "A Drink to the New Decade". I'm not a contestant, but I may be for the next round .


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 10:42:40


    Post by: monkeytroll


    I like the chainmail underwear, seems logical when you consider the prevalence of chanmail bras in the world of fantasy.

    Good skin tones.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 12:38:53


    Post by: gobert


    Lunkop is full of strangeness. I can’t decide what’s weirder, chainmail pants or chainmail boots. Of the 2 I think the boots would be the least comfortable, but then the risk of getting stuff caught in the links... ouch! the metal waistband can’t be that forgiving post lunch. Are those shoulder pads riveted on to him? Very Choas, which makes it even more odd that his helmet has a bad moon on it! Let the awesome retro continue!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 13:02:25


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    I've seen chainmail bikinis before... they were just fine!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/09 13:06:38


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: I'm quite happy with the skin - skin can always be... challenging. Although my wife tells me it's too pink. This is at least the one area where I can ignore her opinion . She would also be quick to point out the apparent folly of chainmail (or any other kind of) bikini armour...

    @gobert Well, I'd assume they are padded on the inside, but Warhammer, Chaos, probably not . I've painted the white down past those studs to make it look more like part of the armour than riveted on. No idea on the bad moon - but it's classic, so it stays .


    Rakarth Flesh base now complete on all armour. Next - Agrax Earthshade wash and Rakarth Flesh touch up to bring the gang in line with Zarygor.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/10 07:59:39


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Gitsplitta: I'll trust you on that .


    Agrax Earthshade wash.


    Layer of Rakarth Flesh. Now caught up with Zarygor. Although it seems hard to spot the difference in the photos, but I'm sure it is there!

    Earlier concerns about the Agrax Earthshade wash on Zarygor seem unfounded now that I can see them all together.

    Next steps - layer up through Pallid Wych Flesh and White Scar.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/10 09:06:03


    Post by: monkeytroll


    All looking good, any differences are too minor to spot.

    Zarygor looks to be in a strop because Lunkop brought his golden boots to the club....


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/10 17:24:48


    Post by: gobert


    They’re looking sharp! Great watching the attention to detail your putting in to these works arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/10 22:14:00


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Agreed, these progress shots are great. Although I'm sure those briefs must chafe something awful.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/11 04:37:10


    Post by: Snrub


    Those marauders are just excellent. So much awesome character in the old sculpts. Nothing says chaotic and scary like chainmail briefs and moon on your head. Not to mention the big feth off mace.

    And you made the wise choice in going with the square bases.
    FYI, if you have any more to do. A much simpler, if slightly more toxic way of cutting slots in the bases is to heat up a metal skewer and melt a slot in them. If you have a gas stove it works really well as you can just hold it under the extractor fan and not have to deal with gakky plastic fumes.

    Interesting results on the colour testing. I like the lava effect. Interesting way of achieving a certain level of realism.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/11 07:52:37


    Post by: Viterbi


    Nice progress, really love your color choices and the sculpts remind me of 80's video game art, you can practically see them on the side of some arcade machine.

    Don Qui Hotep wrote:Agreed, these progress shots are great. Although I'm sure those briefs must chafe something awful.


    Maybe it's Madame Sharn's marvelous micromail


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/13 13:22:43


    Post by: Arakasi


    Quick update with my latest progress - I'll come back to your comments and fill in the "steps" hopefully tomorrow...


    Gladstone and Cedric and shields.


    Zarygor and Lunkop

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/13 18:35:08


    Post by: gobert


    The white armour is really shaping up nicely. I see most of the unit appears to be sporting golden chainmail pants!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/13 23:06:36


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Yep, armour really coming together nicely. Critic's shoulder pads in particular show off the layering work really well.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/14 13:18:34


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: You always make be laugh, in your thread and now mine too . Armour should be coming together nicely - the white is complete in those photos.

    @gobert: Thank you. I guess technically they are all sporting golden chainmail pants...

    @Don Qui Hote: Thank you. You don't dare complain when Chaos...

    @Snrub: I am enjoying painting them more than I thought. The square bases have certainly grown on me - I like to think this is the start of my Warhammer: The Old World Chaos army. I may even be ready by the time GW is . The drilling wasn't too complex, just a little time consuming. Certainly healthier, my wife... oh... you meant the fumes .
    (Interesting note - Dakka obscures the swearing, but not when quoting...)

    @Viterbi: Thank you. It's mostly the Citadel Colour App "Custodian Guard of the Solar Watch" scheme - although I traded Seraphim Sepia on the bone white areas for Agrax Earthshade. I just like the concept of Chaos / Evil in traditionally regal / good guy colours (and vice versa...)

    And with that out of the way, step by steps in spoilers:
    Spoiler:

    Layered Rakarth Flesh.


    Layered two thirds 1:1 Rakarth Flesh / Pallid Wych Flesh.


    Layered one third Pallid Wych Flesh.


    Edge highlight 1:1 Pallid Wych Flesh / White Scar.


    Edge highlight White Scar.


    Base Retributor Armour, Rhinox Hide and Leadbelcher.


    Wash Reikland Fleshshade, Agrax Earthshade and Nuln Oil.


    Layer / drybrush Retributor Armour and Leadbelcher. Base Dryad Bark (Gladstone horns).


    Apply Retributor Armour to rivets. All caught up!
    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/14 13:40:33


    Post by: Vermis


    Armour came out lovely. Goes well with the gold parts too.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/16 12:40:22


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thanks Vermis.



    Half way to the deadline. Gold has now been edge highlighted (dry brushed for mail) with Stormhost Silver. Picked out all of the missing studs with Retributor Gold, and gave all a Reikland Fleshade wash. Hmmm... may have missed the Stormhost Silver edge highlight on Gladstone's sword... Still have the leathers and buckles to do, Gladstone's horns, a lot still missing on Zarygor - tops of his boots and sheathed sword on his back. At least Lunkop is pretty much done for his "clean" version.

    Where to after that? Skipping the obvious (bases), I really want to dirty them up with chipping, battle damage, and a touch of dirt and rust - these aren't Stormhost after all!

    I want to try tattoos on Lunkop - I'm thinking a half chaos star centred on his belly button, pointed up, and maybe a silhouette of Archaon's three-headed beast Dorghar on his back - dark blue or black? (I don't think I can to a Chaos star justice across his shoulder blades and lower back...)

    If I am doing chipping, it would be nice to have some designs on the white armour - almost like a slightly different form of "tattoo". I don't think there is enough room on Zarygor, but Gladstone and defintely Cedric would have room. Half chaos stars on Cedric's pauldrons, pointed inwards, and maybe a crown of thorns on Gladstone. I want to add purple to the mix (another royal colour), so these would work in that colour I think. It will just show off the battle damage better . Zarygor's sword tassle is planned for this colour as well.

    Then there is still the bloody hand print on the face, and probably blood effect on Cedric's Mace and the forward facing side of Gladstone's shield (which I imagine he is pummelling someone with - he doesn't appear to be trying to protect himself from raining arrows...)

    I think that will all work out. The last big question - what to do for the eyes? Glowing red will probably be lost in the bloody hand, glowing purple adds to that royal colour, but again might be lost a bit, and end up with too much purple. Glowing green would work - but can I afford to add another primary colour? I expect if I did green, I could also match Cedric's shield's two or three eyes the same (where green gems would work while I think red or purple might not work as well, or be too much).

    Thoughts Dakka?

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/16 13:41:56


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Green would definitely stand out well against the red hand print, probably best to get in the tattoos and armour designs before making a final decision though. Doesn't seem like it would be too busy colour-wise, but hard to say for sure until everything else is in p!ace. If it does end up too much maybe a very yellow green, or possibly just yellow?

    Looking good so far, I'm miles behind on my guys. Tattoos and armour work sound great - back piece sounds tricky.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/16 14:50:59


    Post by: Viterbi


    Green for the eyes should work, it's a good focal point for the mini. And great paintjob so far, that's some smooth armour!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/16 23:35:04


    Post by: gobert


    Yeah, I think green would work best if you want them to stand out. Like you say, red would be lost with the red hand print, unless it has an orange/yellow glow. Second best would be purple as it goes well with the gold and white. The gang are looking really good so far, I quite like their cleanness but chirping would add to the chaos vibe I suppose!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/17 00:54:35


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    I wasn't really sold on the idea of white armor, but on seeing it in practice, I've changed my mind. Looking forward to the battle damage.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/18 13:07:14


    Post by: Arakasi


    Seems the general consensus is the green, which is my preference too - we'll see how things pan out towards the end. Thanks for the input everyone!

    @monkeytroll: Good advice on getting the tattoos and armour designs in before making a final decision. I worry yellow might get lost amongst the gold.

    @Viterbi and @gobert: Thanks!

    @JoshInJapan: It's funny what the mind thinks will and won't work sometimes. I'm not taking credit here - could have gone either way (although I wouldn't have had time to change tack...)

    More progress. Cedric, Lunkop and Gladstone are pretty much "clean" complete, now that the leather straps have been (re)done. This time I based Rhinox Hide, Agrax Earthshade, then straight to Doombull brown layer on the raised areas and Tuskgor Fur edges.


    Cedric is definitely my favourite for how things are turning out so far.


    Then Lunkop - I think it is the skin.


    Gladstone also has his horns finished - Dryad Bark base, Agrax Earthshade wash, then highlight/base going up Gorthor Brown then Baneblade Brown.


    Finally lagging Zarygor. Leather boots done the same way as the leather bandages, but with an added 1:1 Rhinox Brown Doombull Brown layer after the wash. Boot and scabbard fur based Mournfang Brown, washed Agrax Earthshade, plan is to drybrush Skrag Brown, Deathclaw Brown and (as it happens) Screaming Skull.

    Car issues means I haven't picked up my purple paints as planned - hopefully tomorrow. I'm going to be practising tattoo and armour designs on paper before letting loose on the models.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/18 20:20:13


    Post by: monkeytroll


    All looking good. Zarygor's boots came out nice


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/19 08:47:05


    Post by: gobert


    The boys are looking great already Arakasi. The leather looks good, I need to invest in some of these paints I think.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/20 03:02:05


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thank you monkeytroll and gobert.

    Some more progress on Zarygor:

    Drybrush of Skrag Brown, Deathclaw Brown and Screaming Skull on the fur. Base coats and wash on the sword and scabbard.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/20 04:34:45


    Post by: Viterbi


    Coming along really nicely! Excited to see you tackle the eyes!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/21 00:33:48


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thanks Viterbi.

    So, I'm trying out all of the things. My impressions are in the spoilers so that you might come to (and share) an opinion without me necessarily leading you... (as if that was possible ).


    Zarygor's purple sword tassle completes his "clean" look. Well, except for the sword gem and stud I've managed to miss...
    Spoiler:
    I'm quite happy with how Zarygor is looking pre weathering, bloody hand and eyes.

    Practising tattoo and armour designs. Numbers represent order of attempt. After 6, just go counter clockwise . The "squares" marked by outward lines and characters are the approximate space I have to work with - Lunkop back (Lb), Lunkop front (Lf) and Gladstone head (Gh). The smallest dragon design left and chaos symbol bottom right is about where I was headed. Earlier atempts quickly suggested I would need a much, much simpler design to have any chance of getting it down to size.


    Lunkop with first attempt belly, leg and back tattoos.
    Spoiler:
    The Chaos star looks more like a sun than a Chaos star, but otherwise quite happy with the front. The back is harder to make out, I'm going to try going over with a slightly darker colour to "sharpen" it up... Still quite happy though.



    Gladstone with Chaos Star on head.
    Spoiler:
    Apart from the same issue of looking more like an asterix than a Chaos Star, this just doesn't seem to work for me. Doesn't help that from the front it looks like a bad hair piece!

    Cedric sporting armour markings.
    Spoiler:
    I couldn't quite work out how to apply what I wanted originally, and this isn't working for me either . It might need to be finer to work, but it's just looking "busy" in my opinion. I'm thinking I am best to forgo the armour markings entirely and save the purple for any robes or small details (like Zarygor's tassle) in the future. I had also considered doing the shoulder pads completely in purple, or checked, or with a checked border - but I just don't think it will work now, and I am running out of time. Barring some super suggestions from you good folk, I'll rely on the weathering, bloody hand and eyes to add interest.
    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/21 10:06:36


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Pretty much agree with your own thoughts.

    With Lunkop maybe adding a semi-circle will bring it back to a star rather than a rising belly button sun. Back certainly hard to make out, that is a cramped space with muscles in that you're working on though.

    Not feeling Gladstone at all, all I can think of for a purple touch would be a tiny star on kneepad or the horns. Star might look better on the face-plate rather than the top but you already have the hand print going there. Unless there's somewhere on the shield to add the purp!e?

    Cedric might work if the star was finer, not sold on it though, I really liked those shoulders in plain white. Purple gloves might work, as he appears to have gloves rather than armour, not sure how that would affect the group look. Possibly alternate the loin strips, but again, not sure how that works with the group as no-one has any solid purple armour.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/21 12:29:58


    Post by: Theophony


    WOW .

    These definitely are the chaos warriors I was looking for. For shear inspiration.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/22 04:33:34


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: Thank you for the feedback. See what you think of Lunkop now (below) - otherwise I agree - the shoulder pads look better white. Some times we try things and they just don't work out

    @Theophony: Always happy to inspire!


    So I managed some points to the Chaos Star tattoo - dont ask me how, I don't know either! Looking much better (at least, less like a sun). Made a start on the base rocks. Nothing special - just Abaddon Black to start. Went over Lunkop's back tattoo. At least it is more obvious now...


    Also trying another Martian Ironearth experiment - this time over Ceramite White...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/22 09:59:21


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    Very nice blending Arakasi. They look great!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/22 10:44:52


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Yep, looks more like a star now, and back is clearer


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/22 20:38:53


    Post by: gobert


    Cool work on the dragon tattoo! I think the angle the photo was taken made it hard to see in the first pic, but it’s much clearer now it’s darker.

    As for the Chaos stars:Chaos:; the belly button one now looks good, but the others would maybe benefit from the legs of the arrows being different lengths, a bit like these symbols carried by my Rogue Psykers. I think Not Online!!! had some cool looking Chaos star patterns that looked good too in their plog ( here and here). I think it was the use of the inner circle that might help, or for the one on the helmet, to offset it so it doesn’t look as much like a hair piece.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/23 05:22:18


    Post by: Viterbi


    Nice tattoo work, love the one on the leg and back, still undecided about the one on the belly. But that's personal preference and it's amazing the detail you are able to pack in!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/24 00:11:59


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Gitsplitta: Thank you.

    @monkeytroll: Nice to see it had the desired effect.

    @gobert: Agreed on the different lengths (I was having difficulty doing that in the space), and the circle (which I plain forgot). In my defense, I'm working with a slightly smaller area than a rhino hull .

    @Viterbi: Thank you. No harm done on personal preferences - we all have them.


    Start of undoing my armour markings, Mechanicus Standard Grey.


    Continuing undoing my armour markings. Basically just repeating the original motions. Also, rocks done .

    Back to adventures in Martian Ironearth...


    Martian Ironearth mixed with Carroburg Crimson over Ceramite White. This was an attempt for a richer red to the Martian Ironearth.


    Topped with Chaos Black. You can see here the Carroburg Crimson mix has made the Martian Ironearth thinner (and dribbling off the side).

    Next update should be cool - armour battle damage and even more adventures in Martian Ironearth!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/24 01:33:25


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    It's a shame the sigils/markings on the armor didn't work out. Battle damage should be cool, at least.

    Also, I'm impressed that you remember the names of these models. Even when I was a wee-nerd, just starting in this hobby, I referred to models as "dude with hammer," "other dude with hammer," or "dude with his buttocks showing." That last one applies to more than a few of these classic Chaos models, BTW.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/24 02:05:07


    Post by: Arakasi


    @JoshInJapan: A shame, yes, but I haven't completely given up on them - just for this month's challenge. I'll need to practise and try again later. I cheat with the names. I had to look them up initially, then I add them to all the image names - and continually reference back to them .

    Well, I got the images uploaded in the meantime so I may as well present them!


    Gladstone and Cedric, restored to their former (pre armour marking debacle) glory.


    Lunkop with obligatory skull. My wife titles this one "Fore!!!".

    And now for the anti factory floor finish!


    Cedric


    Gladstone


    Zarygor


    Lunkop

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/24 05:00:38


    Post by: Viterbi


    That weathering/damage is top notch Can't wait to see the bases done and the models in all their chaos-y glory!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/24 06:03:08


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: I'm quite happy with it, thank you. I can't wait either (although thick texture paint around those feet is going to be... fun...)

    Adventures in Martian Ironearth continued...


    Previous experiment, dried. The Carroburg Crimson had the side effect of tainting the Ceramite White, for not much more than inconvenience. I have another test to run on here yet still...


    Meanwhile, I plan to paint the bases with a graduation between black and white under the Martian Ironearth, black areas around stones, grass and white feet, white areas around brown feet, anywhere else. Thought I should give this a test run first, and may as well remove the failed Carroburg Crimson from the experiment.


    Martian Ironearth layer.


    Dropper bottle Chaos Black pre spread.


    Dropper bottle Choas Black post spread.


    Dried. Still tinting the Ceramite White a little.

    Next step is to try a yellow wash (probably made up from paint given I don't have the actual yellow wash) on the white, red wash on the yellow, black wash on the red and repaint the black, well, black. I'm looking for a smooth transition rather than the obvious bands. (Bands will probably be thinner in the final version too.)

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/24 09:53:42


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Chipping is excellent, like that look a lot. Nice idea with the variation under the lava, interested to see how that looks.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/25 00:52:28


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: Thanks. Interested to see how it all turns out in the end myself!

    Hopefully, this will be the last Adventures in Martian Ironearth (for now).


    I don't have any yellow wash, either new style or old, so I made my own from a 3:1 mix of Gloss varnish and old Sunburst Yellow. Applied it over the Ceramite White peaking through.


    Also applied it to a section of the previous experiment.


    Followed up with some Carroburg Crimson wash over the Averland Sunset.


    As well as either side of the yellow wash on the previous experiment.


    Nuln Oil wash over the Mephiston Red.


    And either side of the Carroburg Crimson wash on the previous experiment.


    Finally, Abaddon Black painted over the Abaddon Black (basically to remove the red of the Martian Ironearth).


    Again, on the previous experiment.

    The previous experiment, with only Ceramite White base, I think is, not a failure - there are no failures in experimenting - but not what I was after. I might try building up the washes over the top of each other to see if that works better, but straight over the white I think doesn't work.

    I like the new one. It is brighter. The washes help to ease the colour transition. I think the takeaway is actually to blend the base colouration *before* applying the Martian Ironearth over the top though.

    Gotta get these Chaos Warriors finsihed this weekend - there is still photography to do!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/25 02:11:04


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Agreed, the new one works better for lava, you need that brightness to sell the heat. Previous version still interesting, potential for warp damage or other effects.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/25 08:53:02


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: I'll keep it in mind for warp damage or other effects - nothing is ever useless.

    Trying to get most of my progress done this weekend...


    Rust effect starting with diluted Skrag Brown.


    Followed up with diluted Fire Dragon Bright and Tau Light Ochre. Hmmm - front might not be the best view for this. Still, gone with subtle, slowly building up effects - don't want to over do it!


    Testing flicking Doombull Brown (mostly left, lighter) and Rhinox Hide (right, darker) with a stipple brush.


    Applied flicked Doombull Brown. This is supposed to represent dried blood, general grime etc. Again, just building up subtle (hopefully!) effects.


    Lava, lava, lava! The usual suspects - Abaddon Black, Mephiston Red, Jokaero Orange, Averland Sunset, Ceramite White.


    Some touch up to allow spots that make sense for static grass. (As much as they can near flowing lava... it's magic grass okay?)


    Some brightening and blending-ish. Old Sunburst Yellow and Blazing Orange, watered down. Some Evil Sunz Scarlet, which, as an Air paint, apparently didn't need watering down. Finally some Nuln Oil.

    So now comes the scary part - applying my Martian Ironearth adventures to my precious Chaos Warriors... wish me luck!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/25 17:55:44


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Grime and weathering all looking good, suitably subtle.

    I have every confidence in the lava working as planned


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/26 08:43:07


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: Thank you as always!


    Application of Martian Ironearth and Chaos Black.

    Some new observations:
  • It is very hard to get the Martian Ironearth up to, but not touching, the feet.
  • It is even harder to stop the Chaos Black getting there. (It is quite fluid on top of the Martian Ironearth.)
  • It is also hard to get both under the miniatures.

  • Lessons learnt:
  • Push the Martian Ironearth in around the feet and rocks first, don't worry about building it up thickly there.
  • Build up from the middle out.
  • Except for Zarygor, who had the white around his feet, the others are going to be on black - they don't need the Chaos Black actually making it to their feet - this can be easily touched up later.
  • I'm going to have to redo some of the feet I expect.
  • Potentially mounting the miniatures up off the base a little would make this all easier.
  • Easier still would be to do the bases separate to the miniatures.

  • I had given that last one some thought previously, but I a) didn't want to deal with fiddly pinning or b) want to remove the tags from the miniatures. I think in future I will. Maybe just stick the removed tag under the base to keep them together. Although if I ever strip them, I'd have to place mix and match...


    Crackling begins...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/26 09:18:12


    Post by: Vejut


    Almost there! and yeah, painting base effects is always annoying on the integrated and tabbed base guys where you can't or its annoying to do them seperate...


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/26 12:52:49


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Vejut: Yup - I'm just out of practise


    Lava base dried and cracked - looks promising!


    Tidied up with Abaddon Black.


    All together now!

    Next steps:
  • Highlight the black base.
  • Clean up boots/stones where needed.
  • Probably run a gloss over the colour (lava) in the base.
  • Bloody Gladstone's shield and hand.
  • Attach shields to Gladstone and Cedric.
  • Purple eye(s) on Cedric's shield, purple gem on Zarygor's sword.
  • Test bloody hand on face of a test miniature.
  • Apply bloody hand on faces.
  • Bloody Cedric's mace.
  • Apply static grass.
  • Add blood spatter to Cedric and Gladstone (to match bloodied mace/shield).
  • Done?
  • Photograph for submission.

  • 4 days to go...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/26 13:18:41


    Post by: Viterbi


    Oh yeah, models are looking ace with those bases, really strong 80s video game vibe.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/26 13:33:37


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Oh yes, the bases work brilliantly with those guys

    Maybe an extra highlight on Zarygor's boots? In the group shot his boots get a little lost against the base...


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/26 17:08:57


    Post by: gobert


    Wow! The base experimentation alone deserves the win. Awesome painting so far arakasi, it’s a shame the icons didn’t work how you’d hoped. It’s really tricky painting them so small. Good practice for next time! The graduated colours on the bases worked really well. Jealous of how they’ve come out!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/27 05:35:37


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: I wasn't going for an 80s video game vibe, just contrast to the white, but I'll take it .

    @monkeytroll: I think there were two issues with Zaryor's boots. 1) I got black on them, so they merged with the black lava - this I have fixed. 2) While he's standing on the hottest parts in an attempt to contrast with his darker boots, I underestimated the sheer amount of black still there. Maybe the grey highlights can help here... See what you think of the next photos.

    @gobert: Thank you for your kind words. I will give the icons another go in the future.


    Lava base drybrushed - Eshin Grey, Dawnstone, Administratum Grey - if you can tell. I guess it should add a little depth and less sheer black.


    Bloody hand practise with Blood for the blood god.


    Bloody hands. Also, feet have been touched up here.


    Lava 'ardcoated.


    Lava 'ardcoated, shields attached, bloodied shield and mace.

    Next steps:
  • Purple eye(s) on Cedric's shield, purple gem on Zarygor's sword.
  • Apply static grass.
  • Eyes! (missed this from last time!)
  • Add blood spatter to Cedric and Gladstone (to match bloodied mace/shield).
  • Done?
  • Photograph for submission.

  • 3 days to go...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/27 12:25:57


    Post by: gobert


    Looking good Arakasi. The red hands turned out great, if you get to a full army I think you need the general or at least a champion with a hand drenched in blood!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/27 13:30:40


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Yep, his boots don't look so lost now.

    Good work on the hand prints, betting that was fiddly over the helmets.



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/27 13:31:59


    Post by: Arakasi


    @gobert: I guess I will!

    So, I'm just missing a bit of fresh blood spatter on Gladstone and Cedric, and then making sure the base edges are tidy - so anything that needs attention - speak up now or forever hold your peace!


    Zarygor Bloodrage, Chaos Warrior.


    Lunkop Banesmite, Chaos Marauder.


    Gladstone the Large, Chaos Warrior.


    Cedric Hammerhand, Chaos Warrior.

    I'm not attempting four models again in one of these competitions!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/27 15:46:59


    Post by: gobert


    They do look pretty awesome, and a group shot has to be worth extra votes too?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/27 16:47:21


    Post by: monkeytroll


    All looking good. Only thing I can think of is Gladstone's shield - not sure if looks like splattered blood, might just be the angle, but it doesn't seem random enough?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/27 17:08:10


    Post by: Vermis


    Dem bases...

    Great progress overall.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/28 00:25:43


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: You managed to sneek a comment in while I was posting . Yes, the hand prints were fiddly over the helmets. I've attached an image of Gladstone from above, as the blood spatter is best viewed from this angle. Let me know if you still think it doesn't look random enough (although I may need more information in terms of direction in that case). It supposed to be as if he has beheaded someone in that shield nook by smashing it into the ground.

    @gobert: Group shots incoming soon!

    @Vermis: Thank you.



    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/28 00:56:51


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Makes sense knowing the story behind it and swing it from the top. I'd be tempted to add a little more splatter with a flicked brush, but that's just me, not a necessity by any means Their



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/28 01:57:28


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Some wonderful old models there Arakasi. The bases are cracking.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/28 05:36:42


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: Flicked splatter was always planned, and is now in place (although difficult to see in the image below).

    @Captain Brown: Thank you.


    @gobert: Group shot! (pre proper photo shoot)

    I'm not planning to do any more on these...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/28 09:20:18


    Post by: monkeytroll


    I missed the fact that was still on the 'to-do' list

    Great job on them all, very nice group


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/28 12:14:48


    Post by: gobert


    Looking pretty cool Arakasi, the proper pics are going to be great!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/28 13:32:02


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: No harm done, and thanks again.

    @gobert: Thanks again.

    Well, I set up the lightbox and the following pictures ensued. One of my lamps died during the session so I'm considering retaking some of the darker ones after sourcing a new globe - tomorrow. Otherwise it is simply a case of choosing which six to submit...


    First frontal attempt.


    Second (and I think better) frontal attempt (less shadow on Cedric).


    Left.


    Right.


    Back.


    Back from above. Better picture of the lava base and Gladstone's shield. (I think this was when the globe had died).


    Front from above. Also a good picture of the lava base.


    Angled, so the miniatures are facing more straight on.

    Bigger pictures as always in the gallery - just click through.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/29 06:00:08


    Post by: Arakasi


    Apparently the globe hadn't blown, must have just been a loose connection.

    Final entry:


    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/29 06:38:56


    Post by: Viterbi


    Congrats on finishing! They are looking great, that bloody hand on their faces is marvelous!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/29 07:35:38


    Post by: gobert


    Fantastic shots! They look amazing all together and in good light too. I’m glad you got your bulb issues sorted, it really helped bring out the colours. Good luck in the competition


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/29 13:13:38


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Excellent work Good job on finishing all 4.

    The white armour really paid off, contrasts nicely with the bases, and overall they still have a retro feel even though it's not a typically retro scheme - I can't recall seeing white armour back in the day with the exception of some designed to look like bone.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/04/29 13:28:56


    Post by: amazingturtles


    Much congratulations of finishing them all!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/02 16:14:44


    Post by: Maharg


    Nice set of chaos warriors. Not often you see them in white but it works well. Really like the little details like the tattoos and red hand markings.
    Thanks for documenting your basing techniques, I have been thinking about something similar and it looks like you've saved me some effort working it out. I might try tinting the ironearth with some base paint eg mephiston red, wonder if it still cracks?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/03 11:44:04


    Post by: Arakasi


    @All: Thank you.

    @monkeytroll: Yeah, wasn't planned to be a retro scheme. I just like playing with stereotypes. The colours are meant to be a more "royal" / good guy scheme.

    @Maharg: I only attempted mixing the ironearth twice - once with black (came out brown) and once with Carroburg Crimons wash (came out very liquidy - wouldn't recommend). Both were mixed in place on the base, as I didn't want to try mixing more than I needed to - but both still cracked as expected. The experiment needed here is twofold - does mixing in another colour affect or stop the cracking, and if so, at what ratio does this occur? I guess a third question is, can you get the desired colour outcome at this ratio . It's not on my current plans to find out, but if you do, I will be very interested in the results!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/03 12:51:53


    Post by: Vejut


    I dunno if you can get Vallejo, but they do make a clear crack medium to mix into paint, if you've got a paint color in mind, might be a place to start. I've got a bottle, just not had a project speak to me in terms of needing it...


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/03 13:35:09


    Post by: Arakasi


     monkeytroll wrote:
    You should look for Tim Holtz Distress crackle paint if it's available over there - great product, wide range of colours, cheaper than GW. You could also try painting pva glue over a base colour, then a colour on top of that before it dries - however brush application can be tricky for that.
    Vejut wrote:
    I dunno if you can get Vallejo, but they do make a clear crack medium to mix into paint, if you've got a paint color in mind, might be a place to start. I've got a bottle, just not had a project speak to me in terms of needing it...

    That makes two alternatives to try / experiment with


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/03 22:07:24


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Hot damn, take a few weeks off and Arakasi comes out and finishes not only his chaos warriors but also does up the lava bases to stunning effect! Congratulations on what you've done. Those classic figures have been lovingly restored. Great work on the handprints and tattoos.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/04 17:16:23


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Very nice work Arakasi.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/06 07:00:24


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thank you Don Qui Hotep and Captain Brown.

    So, completing four miniatures in a month sort of knackered me, and between the Dakka Painting Challenge Round 63 May 2020: Old-School Cool theme being more aged, outdated or historical than the retro I was originally hoping for, and the need to start cleaning up my hobby disaster - I mean room - well, I'm off to a slow start this month!

    If the DPC had been more retro, I was going to go with Sally Starfield from Bombshell Miniatures.


    Instead, the room cleanup had to go as far as finding something a bit more Old School, a little less challenging than last month, without just being more Chaos Warriors or Chaos Marauders/Thugs. My search provided a couple of options:


    The head to head options - one of the Chaos Champions monkeytroll submitted in the April DPC (I didn't even remember I owned this!), or the Chaos Warrior of Snrub or the Chaos Centaurs of JoshInJapan for this month . Not sure if I have an extra Chaos Centaur torso or I am missing a body...


    More likely I will go with one of these Chaos Champions or Chaos Sorcerers. Probably a Chaos Sorceror to make it a bit more different from last month.

    Meanwhile, I have collected a large assorted group (mainy Chaos and Beastmen) for the stripping bucket:


    I've also put my name forward for the League of Extraordinary Riveters [LoER] Terrain Competition Round 32: "Honor Our First Responders". I have no idea what I'm doing yet - but leaning towards a Painboy Surgery, or maybe a Necromunda Clinic. Any thoughts or ideas welcome!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/06 12:22:54


    Post by: Vejut


    Honestly, I'd just go with the rocketgirl if that's what your passion's on. Its not that far from the theme, and really, feeling motivated to paint something and well is more important I'd think.

    I'd lean towards the chaos centaurs of the other options except they'd probably be better painted as a set, and you said you weren't looking for quite that much effort this month, and I'm also obviously a bit biased in my tastes. Also, how big are those torsos? could you rob a loose plastic horse sans head and with a little green stuff for a spare lower body to complete them? Still looks like a fun set of ideas in any case.

    LoER wise, I think both might be a fun chance to play with stuff--part of me wonders if you could use the paint test piggys for the painboy version, but don't know what other bits and bobs you'd have that'd fit. Still hope to see what you come up with.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/06 13:29:11


    Post by: monkeytroll


    I'd say Sally is covered in the spirit of the theme. It would be good to see someone tackle one of the Bombshell no is too - I have a reasonable stack that I keep ignoring....

    Slightly biased towards a painboy klinik for some obvious reasons, I'm ignoring the call of my cyborks and going dark mechanicus for LOER, mainly because I don't want to start pulling out all my Ork bitz.

    Having said that I can't recall seeing a Necromunda clinic, and that's always exciting. Plenty of opportunity for dark, damaged, held together equipment but on a different level to that of orks.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/06 23:12:19


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    The call of Chaos is neverending and irresistible. I really like how your off-white warriors turned out, and I can't wait to see what you come up with this time around.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/07 03:11:05


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Chase your bliss in all things, obviously, but I'd vote to see those chaos centaurs get some love. I remember seeing them in the Bitz Catalogues back in the day.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/07 04:33:05


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Vejut: Thank you for the support. I think I must have portrayed more disappointment (ie than none) than I had intended. You are probably right, it would be better to paint the Chaos Centaurs as a set - and yes, that would be too much effort this month. The torsos (and bodies) are not large - the torso may look a little lost on a fantasy horse. In fact, I just checked, and yes it will look disproportionate. However, Lord of the Rings horses look a perfect match - size wise. So then it becomes a choice between converting and Chaos-ing a Lord of the Rings horse, or my original thought, casting one of the bodies... Either is definitely a project for another time. How were you thinking the paint test boars would fit into a Painboy surgery?

    @monkeytroll: Spirit yes, voting and seeing all the cool old school being entered? Meh. Sally and the rest of her Bombshell Babes friends will surely get another chance in the future. As my goal right now is to just keep painting momentum, that will also help with that! Painboy Klinik sounds better than Painboy Surgery. Also requires less, finesse, than a Necromundan (or help me, an Infinity) clinic/hospital.

    @JoshInJapan: Yes, yes it is. Thank you - I know you weren't sold on the idea to begin with.

    @Don Qui Hotep: Another vote for the Chaos Centaurs - I'm obviously going to have to start thinking more about them in the near future!

    Some more options - I specifically went after miniatures stamped 1985 this time around - while I wait for the stripping process:

    Sir Kit Breaker (F5 Paladin), Vlad (Krakhead, not von Carstein) and Manfred (also not von Carstein) (BC7 Heroic Fighters of the Known World), Battle Lords (2), Skeletons (standard bearer and regular), Wraith and a solitary Chaos Thug.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/07 05:36:13


    Post by: Viterbi


    Excited to see you tackle more chaos warriors, but also can't wait to see Sally in the future painted up!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/07 05:40:25


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    Wow, I have a couple of those fighters (Vlad and Manfred), but not the rest. I love those old Jes Goodwin sculpts.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/07 10:30:03


    Post by: Vejut


    Thats some characterful old metal.

    On the pigs, honestly wasn't sure. My brain just figured IRL experiments would be themeatic with orky mad scientist doctors. First thought would be pets/on hand donors or something...


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/08 12:34:21


    Post by: gobert


    Some fantastic old school you have in your collection Arakasi. As for your competition entry, do whichever one sings to you the most!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/08 13:14:25


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: You may need to curb that enthusiasm for a month...

    @JoshInJapan: Any painted up? They are quite characterful!

    @Vejut: Cool, I can see that. In order to keep things within my time limitations (and not over extend myself), I was planning to keep integrated models to a minimum. But, such limitations can always be lifted when inspiration strikes - so I like to keep my mind open to it. Also - I haven't finished the fur paint experiments on the boars yet...

    @gobert: I'm double blessed - I started early (1992? I remember holding out for the 2nd edition 40K boxed set) and failing to get rid of it all when I moved to the UK for a stint (my poor Orks... ).

    Right, a decision has been made, I'll be going with Manfred, Heroic Fighter of the Known World for this months DPC!


    Cleaned up, and base prepared for pinning. A you can see, I've clipped the tag and glued it under the base for posterity. Trying something new, I'll paint the miniature and the base separately this time. He takes up most of the base, so there won't be much to do there hopefully.


    Pins and holes. Just need to run some liquid greenstuff between the base and the base topper (0.5mm plasticard sheet). The base topper was to hide the slot in the slotta base. Like my Chaos Warriors, he will be looking slightly off centre to the quarter base mark.

    Current plan is a very Dark Angels paint scheme - dark green, white (not bone) and red - hope to do some freehand and/or decals on the shoulder pads and robes.

    On a side note - my stripping bucket has provided quite a bit of variability with that large assorted group of miniatures. The paint is sliding off of Slambo and the plastic Beastmen, being a bit stubborn on the rest and particularly so on the Chaos Sorcerers. Glad I chose Manfred now. I also have a reason to try out the recommended Isopropyl Alcohol to see if it makes a significant difference. There were a pair of resin bases in there that appear, slightly damaged? They had prior impact damage, and I think the Methylated Spirits just softened the cracks.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/08 19:53:29


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    I have a few, including Manfred there, in my gallery. I'm curious as to why you're basing this model at an angle-- won't that have him sort of staring off into space?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/09 00:02:34


    Post by: Arakasi


    Very nice. Same reason as the Chaos Warriors - in case I ever want to rank him up. It's only a slight angle , but it's enough that his sword should come out in front of someone to his left, rather than forcing him to the left of a unit.


    Automatically Appended Next Post:
    Also - voting thread for last month's DPC is up! Vote for the winner of the Dakka Painting Challenge Round 62: Pile of Shame. Lots of cool entries, a bit of old school in there too.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/09 10:42:51


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Nice choice, looking forward to seeing him progress.

    Were you not tempted to lose the feathers, grow some spikes and make him a chaos warrior?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/09 18:46:44


    Post by: Captain Brown


    I have a few of those old models as well. Gave them to a friend in my gaming group when he was trying to get his sons interested. Sadly they did not and when I inquired about the old models (as another player was starting a WFB army) I was told they had been tossed out.

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/09 21:38:27


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


     Arakasi wrote:
    Also - voting thread for last month's DPC is up! Vote for the winner of the Dakka Painting Challenge Round 62: Pile of Shame. Lots of cool entries, a bit of old school in there too.


    Thanks for sharing the link - voted for Gladstone and co.!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/10 09:29:47


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: It didn't even cross my mind . Not really the time for it, and he's a bit slight for a Chaos Warrior - which would require bulking up as well...
    @Captain Brown: Apparently there are enough Orkmoticons. Unfortunately, regular people rarely understand the value. Give them the easy to build stuff next time (assuming you haven't been scarred for life and there is a next time .)

    @Don Qui Hotep: Thanks for the vote!

    Updates!


    Some liquid greenstuffing of the gap between the base topper and the base. (Picture shown after filing clean up.)

    While I had the liquid greenstuff out, I also made some progress on Stabbit:

    Nose, snout and forehead.


    Back.


    Right.


    Left.


    Rear.

    I had to add water to and mix my Liquid Greenstuff (it was starting to dry already...), and eventually found the sweet spot of applying with my silicon shapers, pushing into the gaps, and using a wet base brush to smooth out. Looks like some clean up and re-application will be required, but generally I'm happy with the progress.

    Meanwhile, Manfred was base coated Mechanicus Standard Grey:

    I traced Manfred's foot print so I can avoid puttig texture paint there.


    Leadbelcher.


    Nuln Oil.

    As usual, I can afford to be quite sloppy on the first colour, especially as this will require drybrushing.


    Armageddon Dust.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/10 11:28:40


    Post by: Fifty




    This is such a wonderful sculpt. I wanted it desperately as a child, and finally got it in my thirties. Shamefully, I still have not painted it yet. :(


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/10 18:49:49


    Post by: gobert


    Neat idea to trace his footprint, but did you not need to go up to the inner side of the line to avoid a gap? Will the gobbos be getting any paint alongside Manfred?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/11 01:40:59


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Silver mail being one big contrast to your previous Chaos Warriors project, I imagine that Manfred has a much more sensible bit of briefs than Lunkop.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/11 05:03:45


    Post by: Viterbi


    Awwww, he looks so adorable with his chainmail mittens, holding his sword.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/11 13:22:10


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Fifty: I can't take credit for the sculpt, and I guess I'm just lucky to still have it. I'll have to subscribe to your blog so I can see when you tackle it .

    @gobert: Playing things by ear here with regards to the base. I wanted to make sure the texture didn't go past the line (on is okay), and I'm hoping painting in one colour should hide any gap. I'll see how it looks when I put it on. I'm coming around to JoshInJapan's query regarding the facing, and perhaps I have offset it too much - so this base may just end up an experiment prior to the final one anyway .

    Gobbos are very unlikely to get any paint before Manfred is finished. The goal is to get them ready for undercoating. If the opportunity comes up to paint them for the DPC, I'll take it - in which case I'll want them as close to ready to go as possible. Hopefully I'll get Manfred finished well before the end of the month, and have next month's DPC miniature prepped and ready for the start of the month. That will hopefully allow me to branch out past the DPC in the future. Of course, I need start my LoER entry too... Hmmm... possibly I'm bordering on too much motivation .

    @Don Qui Hotep: Indeed! Going for a cleaner paint job this time around.

    @Viterbi: Well, holding a sword blade bare handed might be painful!

    Manfred (DPC May) Progress...

    Drybrush Leadbelcher.


    Nuln Oil again.


    Rhinox Hide.


    Drybrush Stormhost Silver. Not sure if it is making much difference . First coat of Caliban Green.


    Second coat of Caliban Green.


    Nuln Oil over Caliban Green.

    I'm realising that his head, which should be a focal point, is, without excessive highlighting, going to be quite dark. Hopefully, the lighter plume and shoulder boards (all in combinations of white and red) will help frame his head and keep the focal point there... Tossing up whether I should do the piece between the helmet and plume in gold - I may just leave that until later when I can see more of the colours together.

    Next steps are highlighting through Caliban Green, Warpstone Glow and Moot Green. I should then be able to do the red underside of the robe, before the white outside as I work my way inside out.

    Painboy Klinik (LoER) Random Notes and Thoughts
  • Old Ork Codexii refer to Mad Dok Grotsnik's "Medical Tent".
  • I wonder if any of the Black Library novels go into greater detail on Ork buildings and day to day life
  • Old School Ork buildings aren't very inspiring. Also - would never hold Ork numbers?
  • I've been looking at a cross between Dental Surgerys and Torture Chambers for inspiration .
  • I was originally considering (prior to the "Medical Tent") a light weight structure with several rooms.
  • Now I'm considering something that would need to be relatively light weight and mobile - Orks aren't known for permanent structures right?
  • So that leaves me considering a semi-trailer / tent combination - too ambitious

  • Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/11 16:45:22


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Plumage and shoulders should be enough to direct focus on the head - especially if you're adding some freehand to the shoulders, you could use a pattern/design that helped 'point' towards the helm. Alternating red and white layers on the plume and some sort of chevron on the shoulders for instance.

    Definitely wait until more co!ours are down before deciding on the gold -but sounds good.


    Not sure on BL books, best bits of background I know of are the old Ere We Go and Waaargh Da Orks books.

    Is the klinik connected with your Dark Angelz, or seperate? That might help tell you something about it.

    Orks do have various permanent settlements, and in a variety of manners - occupied enemy places, self-built towns, reclaimed fortresses, crashed hulks, etc.

    Battle sites are where the tents are often found - although tents would also cover trailers, pain-wagonz, or whatever else took your fancy according to the orks it belonged to.

    If it's a mobile site for field medikalz then some things to think about would be claim pennants for the snotling orderlies to be placing by the wounded kustomers they find on the field of battle, the orderlies themselves, gretchin assistants, the various medical squigs, spare bioniks, teef bins for the payments, old limbs, etc.
    Is there a mekboy on hand for some of the more interesting 'fittings'?

    Just a few thoughts that come to mind...


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/12 04:56:05


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    Was his armor always going to be green? You choose some unusual color schemes, my friend.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/12 12:24:35


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: Thank you for weighing in on Manfred - Our thinking is scarily in alignment at the moment... Sadly, I think the old Ere We Go and Waaargh Da Orks books are just before my time (and even if not, probably would have been culled with my old Orks .) Klinik will definitely be connected with my Dark Angelz - but I suspect that will mostly drive the colour choices. Your copious thoughts will be added to the pile . (I particularly like the claim pennants idea. I'm also planning a dart board with syringes .)

    @JoshInJapan: Pretty sure it was always going to be green...
     Arakasi wrote:
    Current plan is a very Dark Angels paint scheme - dark green, white (not bone) and red - hope to do some freehand and/or decals on the shoulder pads and robes.
    Yup! I usually consider my self a serious hobbiest (well, on a relative scale...), so I'm more used to readers pushing for unusual color schemes than accusing me of such .

    Manfred progress continues...


    Caliban Green, leaving the Nuln oil in the recesses. Two coats.


    1:1 Caliban Green / Warpstone Glow over about two thirds. Two coats.


    Warpstone Glow over about one third. Two coats.


    1:1 Warpstone Glow / Moot Green edge highlighting.


    Moot Green edge highlighting at junctions and raised points.


    Mephiston Red base on the inside of the tabard.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/12 16:39:54


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Coming along Arakasi.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/12 21:01:44


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Looking good. I think your layering skills are very impressive. You consistently get very even, thin coats. How are you thinning your paints, if at all?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/13 06:32:48


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    The green armor is quite impressive. How long did it take you to do all those layers?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/13 10:11:26


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Very nice! I'm assuming the bits that look like elbow pads are actually part of the under-robe? Had to look at a few different pics before figured that out.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/13 11:52:20


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Captain Brown: It is indeed - thank you.

    @Don Qui Hotep: I'm working on my wet palette (pictured in the spoiler here). I have a small syringe I keep filled with filtered water - but a drop from that is always too much unless I'm mixing a dropper bottle drip or two of a two colour mixture. Mostly I rinse my base coat brush, "dry" on paper towel, and then mix the paint with what moisture is left and that is more than enough in most cases. It probably helps that most of my paints are relatively new - although some require more water than others. I think the other big thing - which I consistently struggle with, is simply patience. The best results are built up from multiple thin layers...

    @JoshInJapan: I tend to do each colour in two or three phases. Phase 1 - base coat and wash. Phase 2 - redo base coat over everything other than the recesses. Phase 3 - everything else. Basically, phase 2 and phase 3 merge unless phase 2 takes too long. I can tell from my previous post that in this case I did it all in one sitting - so two to three hours. They were very small areas after all .

    @monkeytroll: Yes, part of the under-robe (not elbow pads). To be painted white...

    Manfred updates:

    Celestra Grey plume, Asurman Blue wash inner tabard.


    Mephiston Red over Asurman Blue wash inner tabard.


    Evil Sunz Scarlet inner tabard.


    Wild Rider Red inner tabard.


    Celestra Grey.


    Nuln Oil over Celestra Grey.


    Am I mad?!? Also, Celestra Grey over Nuln Oil.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/13 12:31:49


    Post by: Illumini


    Dig those old weirdoes, so much personality in the sculpt, and just enough details to make painting interesting, not so many that it becomes a chore. The green turned out very well.

    I got him and some of his weirdo friends waiting for a nice and flashy paintjob in the backlog


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/13 21:42:25


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    I really like how you staggered the columns of red and white at each tier of the poof, it looks more realistic that way.

    Thanks also for your tips about the wet palette, a friend has been using one for the better part of a year and I can't argue with his results either. Probably time to set one up!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/14 07:30:06


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Illumini: Welcome and thank you.

    @Don Qui Hotep: Sort of just worked out. I wanted to alternate the colours, but there are different numbers of columns on each row... Yes - it is time. If the Darren Latham videos are still up on YouTube, he had one for making an even simpler/cheaper wet palette than mine!

    Manfred progress:

    As the details get smaller, the number of photos do too? The tabard has been highlighted up through 1:1 Celestra Grey / Ulthuan Grey and pure Ulthuan Grey, then edge highlighted 1:1 Ulthuan Grey / White Scar and pure White Scar. I'm not really liking the Nuln Oil wash . Meanwhile the, under chain? (front) and sash (back) has been given their Caliban Green base coats, and the tunic sleeves and tabard top (back) base coated Celestra Grey.


    Trying something new - I've gone with an Asurmen Blue wash over the tabard top (back) and plume to see if that works out better for me. If it does, I'll redo the rest of the tabard.


    Lastly, I've been practising his cross symbol for his tabard. Red was my first attempt, where I thought I could use circles inside a larger circle to create the pattern - it didn't work out so well. The grey was actually done free hand. The green was an attempt to replicate the grey more consistently. If you consider the grey on the green should be white - I think that method works out quite well. (And if you followed all of that, here's a cookie!)

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/14 11:35:48


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    Love the green on Manfred Arakasi... nice blends you have going on there.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/14 19:46:32


    Post by: monkeytroll


    All looking good. I think the blue wash should work well - once it's been highlighted back up to white should just add that tonal variation into the colour.

    Good thinking on the cross - could you use a paper template (thinking of something like a hole-punch) to get the initial circle down? I know the tabard is reasonably flat, but I can certainly never get a circle right on anything that isn't flat.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/15 07:20:57


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Gitsplitta: Thank you.

    @monkeytroll: Check out below re blue wash. The problem with using a flat template on something that isn't flat is that the end result shouldn't look like it is flat . On the plus side, non flat surfaces do give you a bit of leeway to make mistakes / imperfections - I hope . I think if I draw it and tidy it up as I go, it should be okay... here's to new things!

    Manfred progress:

    Celestra Grey back over the Asurman Blue wash (also on plume.)


    1:1 Celestra Grey / Ulthuan Grey (also on plume, but then I realised I didn't need to do so many gradiations on such a small area!)


    Ulthuan Grey (also on the plume, along with Mephiston Red and Evil Sunz Scarlet.)


    1:1 Ulthuan Grey / White Scar followed by pure White Scar (also White Scar and Wild Rider Red on the plume.)


    In case it makes any difference - Caliban Green base above the tabard top.

    I think it looks better. Any contrary opinions before I redo the rest of the tabard?

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/15 07:56:09


    Post by: Vejut


    Nah, I think the the upper blue-ish area did come off better than the lower one. Looks excellent either way.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/15 09:03:15


    Post by: Illumini


    Blue shading is better than grey for white, looks much better


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/15 16:58:01


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Go with the blue Arakasi.

    My two cents,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/15 19:11:24


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Agreed, love that blue shading, a bit less severe gradation than the nuln oil. But the crusader's coming together really well, regardless!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/16 06:02:25


    Post by: Viterbi


    Amazing what work you put into the mini, the plume is excellent and the rest coming along very nicely! And being the minority, but I actually like the look on the lower tabard better, but only because it looks more grimey. If you are going for a cleaner look on the robes, blue is the better choice.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/16 15:02:18


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Yep, blue wash

    That's why I was thinking a paper template - should confirm to the surface better than card or plasticard I think you'll be fine without though - it's not a massively varied surface, and your point in giving a bit of leeway stands.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/20 13:29:40


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thank you everyone for your input. As you can see below, I went with the blue shading - and I do think that worked out better.

    @monkeytroll: I think even a paper template would be fiddly at this size. Alas, I did not even try - I'll save that experiment for another time.

    Let's start with where I am up to:


    Then you can go through the spoilers for the steps if you are interested.

    Redoing the tabard using a Blue wash.
    Spoiler:

    Celestra Grey base over the tabard, followed by Asurmen Blue wash.


    Celestra Grey.


    1:1 Celestra Grey / Ulthuan Grey.


    Ulthuan Grey.


    1:1 Ulthuan Grey / White Scar.


    White Scar, Mephiston Red border.

    Freehand cross.
    Spoiler:

    Mephiston Red circle center and compass point boundaries.


    Draw in the Mephiston Red circle.


    Then the Mephiston Red cross.


    Use Celestra Grey to divide the circle into quarters.


    Fill in the cross with Mepiston Red.


    Add Evil Sunz Scarlett and Wildrider Red highlights and clean up with Celestra Grey. Also highlighted the Dark Angels Green here as well.


    Base the shoulder plates in Celestra Grey.

    Eleven days to go...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/20 13:40:16


    Post by: howie


    Absolute tremendous models in here. Really enjoying your newest hero. The freehand is awesome. I usually miss out freehand for fear of ruining a model I've spent alot of time on.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/20 14:21:01


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Definitely a fair point on the size. But you know me, always happy to throw some ideas out there to make things awkward

    Good job on the cross, your plan worked a treat - sometimes it's good to practice and figure things out.

    Blue worked a treat, lovely.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/21 09:13:41


    Post by: Arakasi


    So, Manfred has a cross icon on his chest and at his right side. I was going to do these metal for the discs they are mounted on and gold for the cross. I'm having second thoughts about the discs. Green would give the most contrast I feel, but may get lost on the chest. Red and white being the obvious other choices... No rule that says they have to be done identically either... any thoughts?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/21 10:12:57


    Post by: Vejut


    I'd think green would kinda get lost, while gold might be a bit too many colors. Possibly red discs with white crosses, or chrome/aluminium discs and red crosses? Could also try something like vallejo's mecha colors red or model air signal red metallics?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/21 14:44:36


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Maybe red disc with green cross? That should prevent the greens getting lost in each other, and keeps to the same existing palette.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/21 16:28:31


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    Very nice work on the tabard Arakasi.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/21 16:47:23


    Post by: Captain Brown


    monkeytroll has a good suggestion.

    My two cents,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/21 21:59:40


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    I don't think using gold would necessarily throw too many colors on the model. Maybe a white or red circle with a gold cross? Although I agree with CB agreeing with MT, green and red is not only festive but would tie together all your different colors in a nice way - and the cross in the chest may be a good transition point from the tabard to the armor.


    Automatically Appended Next Post:
    Oh and also, Manfred's looking great, obvs!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/22 01:01:44


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    I agree with Vejut-- a red disk with a white cross would work better than Christmas colors.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/22 11:04:21


    Post by: Viterbi


    Blue shading worked out really well (good you didn't take my Nuln Oil vote ), model is coming along nicely. And I would think that a gold cross over silver disc might look good and not distract too much.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/22 11:58:00


    Post by: Arakasi


    First, in response to a few comments before my last request:

    @howie: Welcome and thank you. I'm making an effort to practise freehand in order to overcome that fear. Also practising beforehand on paper. Also practising redoing it when I do muck it up. You know what they say - practise makes progress!

    @monkeytroll: I can always count on you for awkward ideas . The practise really does help - although it is hard to practise on non flat surfaces without an actual model...

    For everyone else (or again!) - thank you for the compliments and ideas. As you will see below, I tried the gold on silver (it was easiest to try, just needing the gold). Spoiler - I won't be going with that. I think I'll try the red base next, and given I have two occurrences, I may try the gold and white crosses and see which I (and you) prefer...

    Manfred progress...

    Asurman Blue wash on the shoulder plates. Also, I believe the leather pouch(es?) are done here too (Rhinox Hide, Agrax Earthshade, Rhinox Hide, Doombull Brown, Tuskgor Fur - no half mixes).


    Celestra Grey over the shoulder plates, Zandri Dust base over pommel.


    Mephiston Red on the left shoulder plate, Khorne Red on the right shoulder plate. For the left, I marked the half way point on all four sides, painted lines between them, and then filled in the middle. For the right, I just paint in the cross lines and then fill in the alternate squares. I'll come back and clean this up with Celestra Grey later.


    Retributor Gold base on the cross-guard and crosses. Dot in the rivets with Leadbelcher. The silver disc just seems to get lost here, not to mention the chain on the right side. Next step is to do the discs in red, and then try gold and white on the crosses. I'll also do the chain in brass.


    Washed the cross-guard (Reikland Fleshshade) and pommel (Seraphim Sepia). Still more to do on these. Cleaned up the shoulder plates with Celestra Grey.

    Thank you again for tuning in!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/22 12:18:16


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Yep, all looking good. I like the design choice for the shoulder armour.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/23 07:05:00


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: There is more to come there .

    Quick update:

    Base the cross bases Mephiston Red. I highlighted these up, but I'm not sure if it is these pictures or the next . Chain in bronze - Balthasar Gold, Agrax Earthshade, Balthasar Gold, Gehenna's Gold, Auric Armour Gold.


    Base the cross Retributor Armour, and washed Reiksland Fleshashade I believe (the wash, I'm 100% on the colour ). I haven't done one in white . I think there is enough white on the model - so unless there is an uproar, I think it will be staying this way. Bone pommel and gold cross-guard is also complete at this stage. You can just make out on Manfred's left shoulder plate the start of the design. I got a bit ahead of myself - these are supposed to be highlighted up first! Also - I think I'll be better doing the gold lines in stages - red, gold, then red, rather than trying to paint straight lines...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Automatically Appended Next Post:
    Well, this will probably be appended, but whatever


    Skulls (of course!) on the right shoulder, redoing the gold stripes step one on the left shoulder. (Pendants finished).


    Better angle of the right shoulder - now with crosses too.


    Better angle of the left shoulder, finished gold lines (step two), also swords or crosses - it is really small...


    With highlighting. Left shoulder with tiny tiny skulls.


    Complete? (Well, except for the base...)

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/23 15:33:24


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Nice job on the heraldry

    Looking great, can't think of anything to change or add.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/23 23:46:13


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Double-dang, really impressed with how this guy has turned out. Looking set pretty to me. Really impressed with the freehand at scale. Excited to see his base.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/29 09:51:16


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thank you monkeytroll and Don Qui Hotep.

    So, after some time I sort of agreed with:
     JoshInJapan wrote:
    I'm curious as to why you're basing this model at an angle-- won't that have him sort of staring off into space?
    I originally had Manfred facing at the 5mm mark, or a quarter of his base, as this is what I did for the Chaos Warriors. I think I may have got lucky with the Chaos Warriors. Anyway, I tried a couple of different angles:


    2:1


    3:1


    4:1


    4:1 still has that sword crossing a fair chunk in front of the next model.


    3:1 appears to be the sweet spot. He would be right up against this Greatsword if the Greatsword was facing directly forward (as he is in the previous picture), but it works out fine if the Greatsword is at the same angle. It would be even more apparent if the Greatsword was *actually* at the correct angle - ie facing towards the top of the picture, not the bottom .


    Construct and undercoat a new base. This time I tried some masking tape over the pins (instead of blu-tack).


    Masking tape removed.


    Test fit. What do you think JoshInJapan? Better? I have, however, managed to offset him a bit to the right (his left)... I think I can live with that - we'll see. Oh, and if you are wondering why he looks a bit shiny? That will be the gloss finish (for protection). Don't worry - I'll matte him down later...


    Paint in the foot print. Unfortunately, I can't be as cavalier with the finished model .


    Armageddon Dust. Due to the nature of the inaccurate foot print, there was some test fitting to confirm I covered enough. I had a photo for Gobert about the previous gap, but I seem to have lost it. I'll take another one. This one definitely shouldn't have any issues with coverage.


    Rhinox Hide base.

    More to come, only two or three days left to complete!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/29 19:26:44


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    A lot of those old Citadel models have the same problem as Manfred there-- they overhand their bases by a lot. It makes ranking them up feel like completing a jigsaw puzzle. Your solution works pretty well, I think, although I would be reluctant to do any cutting or drilling an a model that old.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/29 20:10:14


    Post by: Vermis


    Overlooking any overhanging problems, that's a bloomin' lovely paintjob. The red 'n' white goes well with the dark green, IMO


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/05/29 21:36:03


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Almost there Arakasi.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/02 14:11:58


    Post by: Arakasi


    @JoshInJapan: Technically, Manfred doesn't need to over hang - see further down. Also, nothing ventured, nothing gained - with regards to cutting and drilling old models - although I guess nothing lost either .

    @Vermis: Thank you!

    @Captain Brown: Almost - although not without a few set backs (see further down!)

    Public Service Announcement: If you followed my "Adventures in Martian Ironearth" and were inspired by the lava bases - apparently a) I wasn't the first to think of this (not really surprising) and b) I suspect it would have been a lot easier with Mordant Earth - in at least you wouldn't need to do interesting things to get the black on top. Also, googling Mordant Earth will show you lots of lava bases, and other colours - like green (which looks good on Necrons). I suspect electric blue would look good too...

    So, Manfred's base was progressing well...
    Spoiler:


    Agrax Earthshade wash.


    Drybrushing through Rhinox hide, Doombull Brown, Tuskgor Fur, Zandri Dust, Ushabti Bone and Screaming Skull.


    Another Agrax Earthshade wash, gloss varnish, PVA and static grass.
    And then, disaster struck!
    Spoiler:

    Some old Tamiya Matte Varnish apparently was past it's use by date? I cleverly did a test on base 1 - which looked fine. I then did the edges of base 2 - and when I completed the fourth edge, I caught a glimpse of the first - and then saw what had happened to base 1....


    I attempted to fix, first with more Matt Varnish, and then with Gloss Varnish - to no avail. If you use a spray and it goes grainy / cloudy, this will often fix it - but no - I think my issues were beyond that. I'm just so thankful I started on the base!
    So, obviously, I was meant to have a third attempt at getting the base positioned right....
    Spoiler:

    Third time's the charm!


    Outline.


    Armageddon Dust.
    I also managed to get some pictures of the texture base gap and comparison of angles on base attempt one and two...
    Spoiler:

    Base 1 - a very small gap between base texture and miniature. Looks like an almost 45 degree angle.


    Did a better job on base 2, just that offset to the right...
    Final submitted image:


    A few other notes:
  • I seem to have got some brown on the back of the robe - I'll need to touch that up.
  • With the Tamiya Matte Varnish failing me, I'd read or heard somewhere that Medium would provide a Matte finish - so that was what was applied to take off the gloss effect.
  • Medium needs to put on as thinly as possible, otherwise it will go cloudy and crack. The camera picks it up, although it is almost impossible to see with the naked eye unless you know what you are looking for it.

  • Lastly, I finished cleaning up my hobby room. This is important as it will allow me to leave my projects out, which will save me time. It will also allow me to start my LoER entry. Just in time for my Limbo to arrive today too...

    Before:
    Spoiler:

    Dude, where's my Green Stuff?
    After:
    Spoiler:

    Hobby room workspace.


    Hobby room display and storage.


    Hobby room storage
    Next:
  • Decide on and start my entry for Dakka Painting Challenge Round 64 June 2020: In A Supporting Role.
  • Gather materials and start on my entry for League of Extraordinary Riveters [LoER] Terrain Competition Round 32: "Honor Our First Responders".
  • Go through my Limbo delivery - there is at least one issue I need to have rectified.
  • Update Fight the Pile of Shame in 2020 with my completed model and new additions.

  • Phew! Big update!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/02 15:03:38


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Finished Manfred is great, the shoulder pads really set him off well.

    Agghh, the dreaded varnish issues. As You say, at least you started on the base.

    Interesting note on the medium - was that Lahmian Medium? I just picked some up and will watch for that.

    Currently waiting on 're-delivery of Limbo myself - first time couldn't be delivered apparently - it was set to work address, and there's only skeleton staff in, so that could have been issue, although when they let me know if seemed they didn't have company name included. Confirmed work address and suggested they might want to ship this one to home address, but had no confirmation either way.



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/02 16:22:27


    Post by: MacPhail


    Manfred looks fantastic... excellent choices on the color palette. Also, cheers on the epic cleanup! That must feel nice to settle into your space.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/03 05:52:50


    Post by: Captain Brown


    It was lucky that it was on the base and not on the figure...

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/03 06:25:32


    Post by: Viterbi


    Great job with so much freehand symbols on this mini, they look amazing! And I second the others, good that you tested the varnish on the base.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/03 06:28:34


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    Manfred looks great. You were, indeed, fortunate that it was only the base that got fogged like that.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/03 12:18:35


    Post by: Arakasi


    @monkeytroll: Actually, it was 'Eavy Metal Medium - although I'm sure what I heard was referring to Lahmian Medium - which I'm pretty sure is the successor. My experience could also be the age of my two pots... anyway - it can't hurt to be too careful!

    Confirmation and Limbo seem to be like oil and water from what I've seen . Hopefully you get it sorted out!

    @MacPhail: Thank you - x2 .

    @Captain Brown: Indeed. I'm pretty careful (hence the test on the old base first) - but I wasn't expecting the delayed issue... I'll have to give it longer in future!

    @Viterbi: Thank you. I really wanted to take my freehand up a notch for this one - even if it was very tiny!

    @JoshInJapan: Thank you.

    Today I have the possibilities for my entry in the Dakka Painting Challenge Round 64 June 2020: In A Supporting Role:
    Spoiler:

    Doctor Helen Salinger (Bombshell Miniatures).


    Grot Orderly and Grot Oilers circa 1994.


    112, Emergency Service (Doctor) (Infinity, Ariadna).
    I highly suspect I will be going with the Grot Orderly - change my mind! (please don't).

    And I've started cataloguing my Limbo:
    Spoiler:

    Raphael.


    Gluttony.


    Various - mainly so I know where they go and what angle to place them back!


    More various.


    Wong.


    Nancy.


    Human Faction.
    Now to finish the Limbo catalogue and gather the materials for my League of Extraordinary Riveters [LoER] Terrain Competition Round 32: "Honor Our First Responders" entry...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/03 14:31:41


    Post by: gobert


    Great job finishing off Manfred. As others have said the freehand is fantastic, especially on his little shields (I forget the proper name). The Grots look like they’ll be a fun bunch to enter in the painting comp.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/03 18:42:50


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Won't try to change your mind - I was really hoping you'd pick the grot oilers!


    Manfred looks great. It's really rewarding to see him come together. Thanks for sharing your terrifying story about the matte varnish. Years ago I accidentally sprayed a can of roughcoat on my noise marines instead of primer, and last week I almost grabbed my can of wraithbone instead of matte varnish because they both have transparent lids. Oof. The thought of it is enough to give me the shivers! I'm glad that Manfred prevailed and you were able to get him submitted. Congrats on getting your hobby room clean!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/04 11:51:49


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Gobert: Thank you. It's a bit high to be Besagews. I want to say tilting shields - but I can't find any reference to back that up. Little shields will do until we are corrected by someone more knowledgeable.

    @Don Qui Hotep: Any one in particular? I'm only planning to do one (I have a whole terain piece to do too!) Yeah - I've had spray issues before (although never the wrong spray entirely) - and tend to do the varnishing by hand mostly these days, but it is a lot slower... Thank you x 2.

    Limbo cataloguing finished:
    Spoiler:

    Demon Faction.


    Various bigger guys and gals.


    Poor Rodrigo is missing his lance - and arm from the elbow. My only unfixable discovered issue. Limbo have already responded - a replacement will be sent ASAP once logistics get back to normal. No rush - I don't expect I'll have touched any by the time it arrives...
    Without further ado...


    My materials shot for my entry in the League of Extraordinary Riveters [LoER] Terrain Competition Round 32: "Honor Our First Responders".


    Looking for Trukk and Battlewagon bits for reference. I must have bought a whole load of spare wheels at one point, probably for Mek Gunz...


    Some boyz have come out to investigate (for sizing). Nestled in there is the start of some sprue strips of certain lengths...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/04 18:32:15


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


     Arakasi wrote:
    @Don Qui Hotep: Any one in particular? I'm only planning to do one (I have a whole terain piece to do too!) Yeah - I've had spray issues before (although never the wrong spray entirely) - and tend to do the varnishing by hand mostly these days, but it is a lot slower... Thank you x 2.


    Call me a simple man, but I think the grot on the far right with all the stuff on his back is a very good, and very funny, grot. Looking forward to seeing how your LoER entry shapes up!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/05 13:02:22


    Post by: Arakasi


    Of course, he is the biggest grot, well, miniature anyway... He was my first choice before I found the orderly though. Maybe I can do both... (or more likely, complete whichever is closest to finishing...)


    More sprue, less wheels.

    I've been looking for some semi-trailer specs and found the Tamiya 1/14 scale 40-foot container semi-trailer. I think things should start shaping up now!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/06 23:12:08


    Post by: Maharg


    Manfred turned out nicely, should be another good scoring month for you in the painting challenge. Look forward to seeing what you come up with for
    LoER


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/09 12:26:48


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thanks.

    Talking about painting challenges and LoER, I really need to get a move on!

    So I've narrowed down this months painting challenge to these two:

    Grot Orderly and Ammor Runt. Maybe both, maybe one - I guess we'll see.

    And some progress on the LoER Mobile Kinik...


    Start of drop trailer struts made from cleaned up sprue.


    Planning.


    Support struts.


    Cut the bottom off two of the dropper bottles - this was my cunning plan for wheels...

    So much more to do... the plan was to finish the build this month so I'd have a whole month to paint... third of the month is already gone, and I'll lose a week in the last third too...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/09 12:39:32


    Post by: MacPhail


    This looks super ambitious! Great use of that sprue, especially for the gooseneck trailer... inspired. Can't wait to see your gobbo for the painting contest... I have the one on the right somewhere. He's a great choice.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/09 12:57:12


    Post by: monkeytroll


    Nice start on the klinik. Always nice to see sprue in action. What's the plan for the trailer - open, partially sided, fully sided with openings, other?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/13 09:55:08


    Post by: Viterbi


    Good luck for both challenges, your choices are very interesting and I'm excited to track the progress!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/16 16:25:01


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Arakasi,

    Making use of old sprue is always a good idea for the LoER challenge. It is also cool because others can learn from your build and do something similar because the sprue is available all over the world.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/06/30 13:10:25


    Post by: endtransmission


    Oh, I didn't see you resurrect. Maybe this will keep me coming back to the forums more!

    Great work on the old models


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/07/03 13:28:46


    Post by: Arakasi


    So, ummm... I fell off the wagon a little there... let's catch up...
    MacPhail wrote:This looks super ambitious! Great use of that sprue, especially for the gooseneck trailer... inspired. Can't wait to see your gobbo for the painting contest... I have the one on the right somewhere. He's a great choice.
    And now with less than a month to go, is there something above super ambitious? I can't wait to see my gobbo for the painting contest either - we will both be waiting a while...
    monkeytroll wrote:Nice start on the klinik. Always nice to see sprue in action. What's the plan for the trailer - open, partially sided, fully sided with openings, other?
    Well, the plan *was* fully sided with removable sides and tops, but now I might just need to settle for the main klinik part...
    Viterbi wrote:Good luck for both challenges, your choices are very interesting and I'm excited to track the progress!
    Thanks. One failed, one failing - I'll need all of that luck I think...
    Captain Brown wrote:Arakasi,

    Making use of old sprue is always a good idea for the LoER challenge. It is also cool because others can learn from your build and do something similar because the sprue is available all over the world.

    Cheers,

    CB
    That was the plan...
    endtransmission wrote:Oh, I didn't see you resurrect. Maybe this will keep me coming back to the forums more!

    Great work on the old models
    Thanks! Great to see you stop by.

    I at least managed *some* progress last month.


    Shock absorber parts.


    Shock absorbers together. I tried to add the curvature whilst plastic gluing (top). It wasn't very successful.


    I then tried the hot water / curve to mug / cold water trick. Much better.


    While I had the sprue out, I made some frames for the trailer floor.


    In place test.


    Meanwhile, I drilled the feet of the grots for pinning. I tried using some thin plasticard rod in the holes with some plastic glue to determine where the holes on the bases needed to go.


    Completed grot bases with metal pins.


    Undercoated grots. I think it may have been a little humid - the undercoat didn't seem to take as well as I am used to.


    Undercoated bases.


    The orderly knife had bent back down again. Looking back at the photos, even before I applied the undercoat - but I only noticed now. Bending back was one bend too far and it broke off . Attempts to super glue back in place failed miserably - I just couldn't get enough surface to connect. In the end I decided to replace the knife with a greenstuff one. Here I'm pinning in some paper clip to form the structural base.


    Meanwhile, I wanted to test two different ways to paint the grot skin, so out came the Nasty Skulkers. Left is Warboss Green (layer) directly over Mechanicus Standard Grey. As I suspected, being a layer, the coverage isn't as good - especially over the Blood for the Blood God from previous tattoo tests. Right is Waaagh! Flesh over Chaos Black.


    Second layer. The Warboss Green covers the Mechanicus Standard Grey, but you can still see some of the Blood for the Blood God. Thankfully I won't need to cover anything other than the grey...


    Biel-Tan Green wash over both.


    Base rim colour matching. I'm pretty sure my original Orks are all Calthan Brown rims. Mournfang Brown is the official match...


    Steel Legion Drab is definitely lighter.


    1:1 Mix of Mournfang Brown and Steel Legion Drab. Not sure it is any closer a match than pure Mournfang. Definitely more effort .

    Where from here?

    I'm going to need to step on it if I'm to finish something for the LoER contest. Meanwhile, the monthly painting comp is Objective Secured themed and I have a bunch of grots that just need basing and would continue the grot experimentation I've already started.

    Mainly, I just need to keep doing a little regularly.

    Thank you for stopping by!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/07/03 17:04:43


    Post by: Captain Brown


     Arakasi wrote:
    Where from here?

    I'm going to need to step on it if I'm to finish something for the LoER contest. Meanwhile, the monthly painting comp is Objective Secured themed and I have a bunch of grots that just need basing and would continue the grot experimentation I've already started.


    Arakasi,

    LoER project of course. Just a little bias on my part.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/07/03 17:30:30


    Post by: endtransmission


    Mornfang looks better as the rim; it's the closest to what you you've got. I like the lighter green skin tone.

    I look forward to seeing your grots for the challenge



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/01 13:54:12


    Post by: Arakasi


    That wagon needs some rails - way too easy to fall off...


    Got this far on the Grot Orderly for the Dakka Painting Challenge Round 64: In a Supporting Role. Looking at the full image - I think I might strip and re-undercoat it before green stuffing in the knife.


    What I had fished out for the Dakka Painting Challenge Round 65: Objective Secured! That was as far as it got...

    @endtransmission: Sorry to disappoint.

    And my League of Extraordinary Riveters Terrain Competition - Round 32: "Honor our First Responders" entry similiarly fizzled. More on that further down though...

    Anyway, new month, new beginning, new focus and all of that.


    This is my plan for Dakka Painting Challenge Round 67 September 2020: The Long War. Ossilyte Guard - undead from the dark faction of Limbo: The Eternal War. I figure it's a long war if duty doesn't end with death (just allegience).

    The next installment of the League of Extraordinary Riveters [LoER] Terrain Competition - Round 33: "Unfinished Business" is up. A very appropriate theme given my previous failing. I'm pretty sure I got no where near 50% complete.

    @Captain Brown: So I can bow to your bias and have another crack at it!


    Apparently the October Round of the Dakka Painting Challenge (Round 68) is traditionally Halloween themed, so I'm thinking something a bit more impressive (well, larger anyway) - Moucrum, also undead from the dark faction of Limbo: The Eternal War.

    I'm hoping I can blow through the undead pretty quickly, and the lesson from last time is I need to make regular progress on the terrain. With 9th now here, it makes me want to return my focus to a 40K army - I suspect like before I'll probably try to complete the Knights first, but it wouldn't hurt to also attack the odd Ork. It's been so long, (and army composition has changed so much since 5th!) I really want to start small with the Orks and build up some painting muscle memory before finishing off some of my completed conversions from, seven years ago? From the painting rounds I completed before, it will help to have a backlog of ready to paint models that might fit any given theme (I think that only the starting Space Marine round in March and Halloween round in October are known beforehand.) And I still have my Warhammer Underworlds as well. I guess what I'm trying to say is, expect there to be some hobby butterflying...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/01 17:08:07


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    That Moucrum model is really fun (especially in the background of the pic of the ossylite guard; "Carry on, chaps. Pretend I'm not watching"). I love his vertebral scythe and his carrion mien. Good luck this round of painting/riveting! Excited to see to which flowers you extend your hobby proboscis.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/01 20:45:55


    Post by: endtransmission


    I know the feeling. Painting has been a little... sporadic through August. I still have a few bits and pieces that I need to photo and add to the various related threads... maybe tomorrow. I've done the same for 40k and started again, with some basic infantry to create the base of a force before going into the more custom/unique pieces that are boiling away in the back of my head.

    I need to think of something for the eternal war theme, but undead seems like a good call. Those look like nice figures, especially the big beast you've lined up for halloween!



    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/02 00:01:17


    Post by: Arakasi


    Community announcement: Vote for the winner of the 66th Dakka Painting Challenge: Mastermind is up. I failed to even consider an entry this time, let alone enter - so go check out (and vote on) the fine work of others.

    @Don Qui Hotep: Moucrum is (almost) all bone. I'm thinking of a "fresh" bone effect on all of the "skin" areas - the red shades and white highlights should look like skin - or exposed muscle - and a cleaner bone effect on weapons and armour - his back foot, the scythe and anything else that looks armour-ish. Should be fun. Can't start him until October, but I can prep him before then.

    While I'm on plans - the plan for the Ossilyte Guard is blue robes, gold trim (raised royal guard), and a lot of weathering. The miniatures themselves are already extremely pitted - so rust and grime should be easy? Of course, first step is prep - a bit of plastic reshaping required and clean up (they came assembled.)

    @endtransmission: I tend to get focussed, and my focus was, elsewhere, the last couple of months. I still struggle to have painting keep my focus as well. Looking forward to seeing the few bits and pieces you need to photo, and what you come up with for the Long War theme.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/02 04:44:31


    Post by: Viterbi


    Good to read from you again, excited to see what you will do with those differentially alive models.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/02 10:43:50


    Post by: endtransmission


    I know what you mean about keeping attention. Without anyone to play against there's no real drive to finish anything. My desk currently has about 12 partially painted projects on the go :/


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/10 05:49:01


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: Good to be posting again! But more importantly, building and painting again.

    @endtransmission: I have more trouble with partially built projects on the go (Well, and unpainted...)

    So, luckily my progress is better than my updates...

    First, cleaning up the Ossilyte Guard. Most of the mold lines were pretty small / hard to spot - but the plastic is tougher than I am used to (GW). Checking the Kickstarter, the models are PVC and the bases and weapons are ABS. Anyway, these are the lowliest of pieces in the game, so if anything escapes through - I'll live with it / use it as a learning experience for some of the more impressive pieces.


    Some of the Ossilyte Guard required some straightening.


    Some hot and cold water later...


    Mechanicus Standard Grey basecoat and we are ready to go! (Note: Some of the straightening, unstraightened. Not as bad as originally, but good to know for future efforts).


    First base coat of Kantor Blue. Interestingly, this wasn't as dark as I was expecting - but I think that is a combination of the grey basecoat and being only the first layer... If it had been a black undercoat, I'd probably realise it is simply coverage.


    Second base coat. Better, probably still go a third.

    Meanwhile, for the LoER competition...


    Prepping lengths of sprue to make the frames for the sides.


    Rough example.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/11 04:47:36


    Post by: Viterbi


    Now I'm feeling bad, because giving a mini two coats is in my eyes a pure luxury (I should really start thinning my paints ) and here you are thinking about a third one


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/15 05:11:07


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: If you (or I, looking at your models) can't tell the difference, maybe I'm the one that should be feeling bad (or one or both of us need to improve our photography )

    Progress!


    Third coat of Kantor Blue and I'm finally happy.


    Asurman Blue wash.


    Kantor Blue dry brush. I'm not usually one for dry brushing, but the surface here is just crying out for it.


    Alaitoc Blue dry brush.


    Hoeth Blue dry brush. Hopefully not too subtle here - the plan is to eventually go over with an Agrax Earthshade wash with everythng else to tie it all together...


    Beginning the first Rhinox Hide base coat. Man this takes a long time...


    First Rhinox Hide base coat complete (x10). I came across some bits of robe/blue I missed on some of them, and I can see some missing brown even in this image. I think I will only need the second coat of Rhinox Hide thankfully though - this was starting to feel a chore!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/15 11:53:58


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    I like that color combo.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/15 11:54:07


    Post by: endtransmission


    Ooooh you have my sympathies on the multiple coats of brown. Now I remember why I switched to base coating in the primary colour I am going to paint


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/15 19:12:30


    Post by: Good Old Murray


  • With the Tamiya Matte Varnish failing me, I'd read or heard somewhere that Medium would provide a Matte finish - so that was what was applied to take off the gloss effect.

  • I've found the Humbrol Matt Varnish to be a good paint-on alternative, and gives a nice robust finish.

    Love this paint job. What's the model?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/15 20:25:11


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Nice updates on the Ossylite Guard. Thanks for sharing the before/after on the straightening of the plastic; I like when hobby blogs include quality reviews! Definitely an improvement based on those before/after pics.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/20 07:35:14


    Post by: Viterbi


     Arakasi wrote:
    @Viterbi: If you (or I, looking at your models) can't tell the difference, maybe I'm the one that should be feeling bad (or one or both of us need to improve our photography )


    You misunderstood, I feel like on every close-up picture of my minis, I can count the brush strokes, because of my laziness to do thin layers Yours look very smooth and good to see more colors pop up on those warriors!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/25 12:18:42


    Post by: Arakasi


    Back again with an update. These were completed last week and uploaded last weekend, but I've only now found time to present them as I have been away from home this week. I have a week off next week, and the Long War painting competition also ends next week, so hopefully some more frequent updates over the next seven days...

    @Gitsplitta: Hopefully you will still like it now that it has advanced some....

    @endtransmission: Makes sense. I think I'll need to pay more attention to that in the future! I didn't really know what I was going to need back when I undercoated them...

    @Good Old Murray: Welcome! Thanks - I'll keep an eye out for it. Manfred is from the BC7 Heroic Fighters of the Known World set.

    @Don Qui Hotep: Ha! It wasn't meant to be a quality review, but a recording of "how I fixed (or didn't)" for next time .

    @Viterbi: Well, if it makes you feel any better, I haven't noticed the brush strokes on your minis. I'll endeavour to look harder in the future!

    And with that out of the way, the progress!


    Second Rhinox Hide base coat. This was the base for following theses tutorials: How to Paint Skeletons - Sepulchral Guard - Warhammer Underworlds Shadespire (video) and Painting Tutorial: Rust & Weathering.


    Attempt one at dry brushed Steel Legion Drab. Basically I didn't feel I got enough coverage on my first attempt, because I was using a small dry brush and attempting to not "go outside the lines" too much.


    Attempt two. I upgraded to a medium dry brush and went to town, lines be damned.


    Dry brushed Rakarth Flesh.


    Test dry brush of Pallid Wych Flesh.


    Dry brushed Pallid Wych Flesh.


    Touch up dry brush of Pallid Wych Flesh.


    Touch up the Rhinox Hide.


    Test stipple of Mournfang Brown.


    First attempt stippling Mournfang Brown. This was with my medium stipple brush, but I was having great difficulty getting the sweet spot between too little and too much :(.


    Attempt two, this time stippling with my small dry brush, which worked out much better IMHO.


    Stippling Wild Rider Red.


    Stippling Fire Dragon Bright.


    Stippling Zandri Dust.


    Tidy up the Kantor Blue.


    Agrax Earthshade wash test (right) - although, still just freshly applied.


    Second Agrax Earthshade wash test (right) - also still just freshly applied.

    That's it for now!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/25 14:52:03


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    Still really good.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/25 17:32:24


    Post by: gobert


    Looking good Arakasi. The non-metallic rust looks really cool!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/27 09:53:19


    Post by: endtransmission


    Looking good!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/28 07:25:29


    Post by: Viterbi


    Great rust effect! They really have been fighting the long war


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/29 01:43:18


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Quite the step by step in your colours Arakasi.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/29 09:27:31


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Gitsplitta: Glad you still approve .

    @gobert: Thank you. However, it's not meant to be non-metallic - as you will soon see...

    @endtransmission: Thank you.

    @Viterbi: Indeed they have.

    @Captain Brown: I find painting can be a bit of a rollercoaster ride sometimes. I'll do one layer, and be happy. Then the next will look screwed up. Then the next will look like it was meant to all along. I record the steps mainly as a reference. Yes, this did look dodgy at this step - but the final result was fine - so don't get disheartened. (That way leads to unpainted miniatures in my experience...). It is helpful for me. Bonus if anyone else gets anything out of it .

    Why did I think skeletons would be easy? I'm running out of month...


    The test Agrax Earthshade washes from before, now dried.


    Everyone Agrax Earthshade washed. Photos with the blinds open just never look as good...


    Test Leadbelcher dry brush.


    Everyone Leadbelcher dry brushed.


    Test Retributor Armour base coat.


    Everyone Retributor Armour base coated.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/29 11:39:30


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    That's really nice. They just push all the right buttons for me.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/09/30 08:45:09


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Gitsplitta: I have less fear of veering away from that now, given the main colours are now in place .

    Quick update while I wait for a wash to dry... The layers are getting pretty small now, so the progress is faster - which is good - the deadline is approaching! It also means that if you are actually interested in seeing the differences, you'll probably need to click through to the DakkaDakka gallery to inspect the full size image.


    Reiksland Fleshshade wash over the Retributor Armour.


    Liberator Gold layer.


    Stormhost Silver layer.


    Stippled Trollslayer Orange. This was meant to be a Ryza Rust dry brush, but I don't have any Ryza Rust and thought Trollslayer Orange would be close enough. I also stippled rather than drybrushed, mainly to keep the areas touched nice and tight.


    1:2 Firedragon Bright / Medium wash in some crevices.


    1:1 Nihilakh Oxide / Medium wash on and around the gold.


    Base coat the bases Mechanicus Standard Grey.


    Agrax Earthshade wash.

    I'm feeling I didn't drybrush the Leadbelcher heavy enough at the appropriate stage, as I wanted more of the silver of the armour to come through. I may have been a bit heavy handed with the Nihilakh Oxide as well. Live and learn I guess.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Automatically Appended Next Post:
    Maybe final pic - I need to see if I can get better photos tomorrow morning. The metallics don't come up very well under direct light...

    Ossilyte Guard


    Also, progress pictures still to come - although I think I am missing some due to the rush...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/01 02:57:33


    Post by: Arakasi


    The missing progress...


    Dry brush the base heavily with Mechanicus Standard Grey.


    Dry brush the base moderately with Dawnstone.


    Dry brush the base lightly with Adminstratum Grey.


    Work Coelia Greenshade wash into the cracks and over some bits of the brickwork, attempting to replicate moss.


    I ended up having to do the Coelia Greenshade wash several times to get the colouring I was after. I managed to stain some less than irregular areas, so went back over with Dawnstone and Adminstratum Grey dry brushes to bring it together better.


    Ten finished Ossilyte Guard!

    The Dakka Painting Comp entry has been updated above, but here are two other pics I took that weren't used:


    Now for a brief break before getting back to it!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/01 03:16:42


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    I really like those guys. You made the metal look realistically old and corroded, something I struggle with.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/01 06:13:45


    Post by: Ezki


    Good work on the metal parts!
    And good work on getting them done before the deadline


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/01 10:45:16


    Post by: endtransmission


    Oooooh that last minute rush to the finish line! They all look fantastic, well worth the effort put into them


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/01 11:16:21


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    Very nice! Good luck!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/01 16:00:44


    Post by: gobert


    Great effort getting them finished. I’ll echo JoshinJapan, the metal looks realistically corroded. Good luck in the comp!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/02 20:05:41


    Post by: Don Qui Hotep


    Great job on the final unit! I particularly like the blue robe effects. Also the flagstone bases are super naturalistically done - excellent work there.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/03 16:01:46


    Post by: Viterbi


    They look so cool! The swords aren't probably sharp enough anymore to cut the enemy, but he will die of infection by all that rust and other stuff on them


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/25 01:38:17


    Post by: Arakasi


    Back again. I haven't been too idle - well apart from updates!

    @JoshInJapan: Thanks. Just finding and following tutorials - and learning along the way. I think I mentioned I'd do a heavier Leadbelcer drybrush in future - they weren't suposed to be quite that corroded.

    @Ezki: Thanks. Yeah - it was a struggle, and again, took some wind out of this month's efforts - but ten done.

    @endtransmission, @Gitsplitta, @gobert: Thanks.

    @Don Qui Hotep: Thanks. There wasn't too much to the robes in the end. The flagstones came out pretty much how I wanted them too - which is always nice for a first attempt at something without a tutorial.

    @Viterbi: Cool cool or damp earth cool? Bludgeoning weapons also work

    So, for my "break", I received my paint and tool racks from Back 2 Base-ix and put them together. Decided on an Orky green base and walls with transparent shelves.


    The Rack: Straight Section


    Filled.


    Plus internal corner and in its final place.


    Plus tool rack.


    Overflow

    Took some time to assemble, but so far I'm very pleased with it.

    More to come!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/25 06:34:21


    Post by: Viterbi


    Ah, a sorted painting area. May it stay that way as long as possible


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/25 08:57:16


    Post by: CommissarKhaine


    That's a LOT neater than my painting area . Nicely done.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/26 00:12:34


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Viterbi: Therein lies the rub. However, I find it easier for everything to be in its place when there is a place for everything .

    @CommissarKhaine: Don't feel bad - the bit out of shot to the right is much messier! As mentioned above, the challenge is keeping it that neat...

    Continuing my break from paint, I did a little more work on the Klinik.


    Here I line up the base of the side wall. The plan is for the sides to be removable - for painting and photography - so the paper clips respresent the "slot in" pinning points.


    Attempting to glue the side frame square with what I have available.


    Two front walls pinned in place and a third being glued square.


    Three front walls pinned in place and the fourth being glued square.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/26 03:48:29


    Post by: Yorkright


    Those skeletons are wonderful, your use of washes and dry brushing techniques really made them look like they just climbed out of the grave. Good luck in the monthly comp.


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/26 05:11:54


    Post by: Arakasi


    Thank you Yorkright. Speaking about the monthly competition...

    After the diversion above, and then my regular week a month away from home, it was time to get back to the monthly painting competition.


    It took me a week to straighten, clean up, re-straighten and gap fill this monstrosity. The mold lines are very fine - but they are there - and I know the mostly drybrushing technique I will be using will catch every... single... one... of them - that I leave / miss. Again, I don't like working with this plastic. GW plastic feels, softer? Like it wants to be smoothed out. This stuff just seems to fight me at every turn. Anyway I'm running out of month and need to move on...


    Mechanicus Standard Grey under coat - because that is all I have readily available . Oh, and trying out my Citadel Painting Handle XL for the first time.


    Khorne Red base coat.


    Second coat of Khorne Red, plus first base coat of Rhinox Hide.


    Carroburg Crimson and Agrax Earthshade washes (wet).


    Ceramite White base coat.


    Second coat of Ceramite White.


    Same progress, but first time picture of the back.

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/26 06:19:07


    Post by: Viterbi


    Nice start, hope you can finish in time! And WTF is going on with his weapon. I thought it was a normal bone axe, but am lightly weirded out, where it is attached to At least he won't lose it


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/26 06:40:55


    Post by: Arakasi


    Best I can tell it is a tail weapon. It seems impractical as a hand weapon though, as the tail does not seem long enough to allow any real swing reach in front of him. Perhaps he is simply keeping it from dragging in the dirt behind him...


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/26 10:24:34


    Post by: gobert


    Oooh, excited to see what you do with this guy. The bloodiness of the main bit seems like a cool and disgusting idea


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/26 16:35:06


    Post by: Captain Brown


    Good luck for the Monthly Painting Challenge Arakasi.

    Cheers,

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/29 09:22:21


    Post by: Arakasi


    @gobert: I'm not sure it is turning out quite as I hoped (my posts are behind my progress), but it was the plan...

    @Captain Brown: Thanks - not sure if I'll need it yet (for finishing anyway...)

    The problem with running to a deadline is that you get less time to post updates, which is then less time for helpful advice to appear at a time when you can use it, but I digress... Full size images are in the gallery as always.


    Agrax Earthshade wash over the Ceramite White.


    Steel Legion Drab dry brush over everything else. This may have been a mistake - I'll come back to this.


    Steel Legion Drab applied to all of the flat bone areas from above.


    Rakarth Flesh dry brush applied to above.


    Ushatabi Bone dry brush applied to the Ceramite White areas.


    Pallid Wych Flesh dry brush to the other areas.


    Screaming Skull dry brush applied to the Ceramite White areas.


    Carroburg Crimson and Agrax Earthshade washes.

    It doesn't look it so much here - I think because the wash is still wet - but later you will see the red has more of a purply tinge to it - which I think was the Carroburg Crimson over Steel Legion Drab...

    Anyway - until the next update!

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/29 13:12:00


    Post by: Gitsplitta


    I think that's very impressive!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/29 18:36:52


    Post by: Captain Brown


     Arakasi wrote:
    @Captain Brown: Thanks - not sure if I'll need it yet (for finishing anyway...)


    Keep at it, you still have time...and usually there is a day or two of grace.

    CB


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/29 19:55:13


    Post by: JoshInJapan


    Whoa, that's a gross scary model you have going there. Are you going to paint bone over all that red or will you leave it meaty?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/29 20:33:50


    Post by: endtransmission


    He's looking good. Some purple washes into the darkest parts of the red and some very slight white highlights would really make him pop. The purple will add more depth, while the white will make it look wet and sticky for extra gruesomeness


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/30 09:55:31


    Post by: Arakasi


    @Gitsplitta: But wait, there's more!

    @Captain Brown: Will do!

    @JoshInJapan: I'm leaning towards leaving it meaty. He has a lot of detail, and painting bone over the top - well - check out the previous picture before the second red wash - I think it just makes it too hard to choose where to look...

    @endtransmission: Great minds and all that. In my next set of pictures (not this post) I've played with adding a bit of purple and blue washes. It's not making a lot of difference, but then I'm wary of over doing it. I'm also considering gloss varnish over the red for the same effect.

    More progress...


    Phoenician Purple base coat.


    Leviathan Purple wash, Mechanicus Standard Grey base coat. (Also Steel Legion Drabbed the skull.)


    Retributor Armour, Leadbelcher, Kantor Blue and Ceramite White base coats, Reikland Fleshshade, Nuln Oil and Agrax Earthshade washes.


    Phoenician Purple mixed with Genestealer Purple then Emperor's Children layers.


    Leviathan Purple, Coelia Greenshade and Asurman Blue washes.


    Leadbelcher shield rims, Mechanicus Standard Grey, Dawnstone and Administratum Grey dry brushes.

    More to come...

    Catchya,
    Arakasi


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/30 18:47:14


    Post by: endtransmission


    He's coming along nicely there; the bones are looking particularly nice. I look forward to seeing the purples next time around. Any plans for glowing eyes on him too?


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/31 01:59:32


    Post by: gobert


    He really is a sight to behold! Good luck getting him done ahead of the deadline!


    Arakasi Reloaded: Steel Legion @ 2020/10/31 02:25:23


    Post by: Ezki


    That is looking gorgeous already!
    Good luck getting the final touches in, not that it needs much

    And that sorted out painting area
    Jealous.