How do!

Have decided that in 2024 (henceforth to be called “this year”, despite this post being done in the dying hours of 2023) I’m going to do something hobby every day.

This could be building a kit, or doing a stage of painting on a unit. The thought process is many a mickle makes a muckle, and so through Little But Often efforts, I might just see the year out with entirely painted armies.

Current projects on the slate are Heresy Dark Angels, Legion Imperialis Dark Angels, and my ever expanding HeroQuest collection. For Hero Quest I think I’ll do it dungeon-by-dungeon, painting whatever monsters are needed starting at the very beginning. That may not take me quite as long as we might think!

Now, I already have one holiday booked in, specifically a few days in Orkney. As that involves flying I won’t really be able to do anything particularly constructive. So I’m currently pondering how to compensate. Maybe I could include “buy a unit” as part of it. Or, I’ll just have to double up in the preceding weeks.

I may also do a different project each week, to try to keeps things fresh. Or at least as one is finished, the next will be for a separate project.

Finally, as this is meant to deal with a serious, serious backlog? I’m hoping to keep hobby spending to a minimum models wise. Except of course for Legions Imperialis, where new things will be coming out. But, I will commit to no purchase without prior painting. So, ideally I won’t be snapping up expansions until I’ve painted something. Though given dubious availability, I might be buying more than one kit at a time. I’ll have to wait and see.

You could use days away from the hobby for administrative tasks. Compile pics, inventory, planning, organizing, writing goals, lists, summery/progress reports. Woolgathering or analysis. Hobby adjacent stuff that helps keep things on track and in the right direction.

Something every day is a very aggressive goal. Best of luck.

 Nevelon wrote:
You could use days away from the hobby for administrative tasks. Compile pics, inventory, planning, organizing, writing goals, lists, summery/progress reports. Woolgathering or analysis. Hobby adjacent stuff that helps keep things on track and in the right direction.

Something every day is a very aggressive goal. Best of luck.

Not a bad idea!

But in a surprise to everyone, not least myself? I didn’t even fall at the first hurdle.

Behold, Day One

8 Contemptor Dreadnoughts for Legions Imperialis. Really enjoyably build, even if the power fists are a bit fiddly to glue together.

Might go a bit further and get them sprayed. But, I may leave that for tomorrow’s Hobby.

Edit. Did some prep work. Specifically uniting the Missile Launchers with their bodies. Achieved by clipping the sprue in half as seen. Which means all my current Legion Imperialis infantry are ready for the spray booth tomorrow. Reckon I’ll do that in loose phases throughout the day.


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Another super quick update. Noticed three of the Assault Marines have two sprue connection points.

Quick job with the clippers to remove those on the model itself, leaving them anchored by the “base”. All ready for spraying now.

Day Two’s efforts begin.

You’ll notice I broke the Sprues down before spraying here. In hindsight, whilst a solid idea for the next stages of painting, I’m not going to break the others down until they’ve been sprayed. Should be a more efficient use of the spray can.

Colour use is Mechanicus Standard Grey.

Box by Zavvi 🤣🤣

More to come today, as I’m just letting that side dry, then flip and spray. Once all dried, out with those, in with the others and get them sprayed.

And base spraying mostly done, final pic I just need to do the flip side, which I’ll do in the next 20 minutes or so.

And what's next, painted minis then?

Who are you, and what have you done to doc?

I don’t know.

All I remember is settling in for a New Year’s Eve watching telly. Next thing I know, this 9 foot horror calling itself “Trevor, The Hobby Fairy” turned up.

Morning after I awoke with a sore head, only to find Trevor The Hobby Fairy had drunk all my beer and left me this inspiration!


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Rounded out day two with having all my Infantry sprayed.

Tomorrow, I’m going to start with one strip of basic Tactical Legionnaires, see how my intended paint job goes. If it works? Possibility of blitzing the lot.

Oh yeah, it came to my home as well, but it called itself Jean-Michel

Day 3

Initial work on the Legion Tactical Marines.

Drubrush upper half with Army Painter “Gun Metal” to provide some highlighting to the Mech Std Grey primer.

Then, a quick going over with Army Painter “Grim Black” from their Speed Paint range, equivalent to Contrast.

Next up is picking out the gun casings, then Army Painter “Vampire Red” on the right pauldrons for a splash of colour.

I make little apology for my patented crap-o-vision photos.


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Also bought a plastic box and sponges to make me a wet palette. Found the silver drying out a wee bit too quickly for my liking.

Day 4

A gentler start to today’s bit of hobby. In which I make a wet palette.

Using a locking bit of Tupperware (well, non-branded but you know what I mean), a sponge wipe, and a few sheets of kitchen paper towel.

I do now need to nip out to the shop though. I not only need baking parchment for the paint layer (I thought I had some, but it’s greaseproof and so unsuitable), but also some fresh superglue for attaching the dinky marines to their bases.

Once that’s done, I have a fair number of choices. Base the Tactical Marines, or blitz out the remaining Infantry.

Hopefully I’ll get both done. And I think if I spray the remaining bases now, I can paint all the bases at the same time for better consistency.

But first. I need to get dressed properly. Can’t exactly waltz down to Sainsbury’s in my house robe now, can I?

How are you going to base? Sometimes you reach a cap of how many you can do in one batch. Generally I wait until I have a number of guys ready to go, but I need to mix a batch of flock paste for how I base, so it makes sense to wait for a few to be ready.

Just gonna be painting them I think.

I favour dirty tricks when painting, so probably just a dry brush, strategic wash, and pick out any particularly interesting details (such as Aquilas) in suitably contrasting colour, and call it a day.

Currently waiting in for a couple of parcels, and can then head out to gather supplies. I’m keen to get the two sets of Infantry done by the end of tomorrow, as that sets a comfortable precedent for myself when it comes to expanding my hordes.


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Oh, and prognostication.

Tanks I want done and dusted on Saturday. Got the whole day to myself, and not a huge number of them at the mo.

Sunday will be list writing. Low-fi Hobby I know, but not only by then will I have a proper visual on what I own, but I’m going to dinner at a friends, and will have super important Puppy Bothering Duties.


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Wet Palette now completed.

Also picked up a lighter grey from Army Painter, some mixing/thinning medium, and some Agrax Earthshade so I can do me bases.

Speaking of bases, I’ve also sprayed the remaining ones so they’re at least done.

That all counts as Hobby. But I want to get the other infantry painted as well.

And on with the show.

Remaining infantry have had their initial dry brush of Gun Metal. Next up is a layer of Grim Black.

Grim Black done. Back to gun metal to whip round the weapons.

And more or less done.

Just need to do the peturges on the Terminators. But I need to delve into my Box O’Stuff to find the right colour.

I use this exact wet palet, does the job well enough. Considering the size of the marines, I would prolly have gone for dirty tricks as well.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Can’t exactly waltz down to Sainsbury’s in my house robe now, can I?

...why not?

 Dysartes wrote:

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Can’t exactly waltz down to Sainsbury’s in my house robe now, can I?

...why not?

I already look enough like a Wizard.

Do that, and I’ll have short people bothering me at all hours asking me to check out their ring.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:

 Dysartes wrote:

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Can’t exactly waltz down to Sainsbury’s in my house robe now, can I?

...why not?

I already look enough like a Wizard.

Do that, and I’ll have short people bothering me at all hours asking me to check out their ring.

More likely to get that sort of thing in Iceland. Or Home Bargains.

Good start so far MDG, looking forward to seeing you painting up these teeny tiny figures.

Expedition Day today.

Off to a vintage toyshop for trades, maybe straight purchases. And on my way home? Visit a larger FLGS in the hope I may find Legion Imperialis in stock.

Then home to get my bases done. Maybe the Dreadnoughts too.

Great start Doc. Painted marines look good. I've seen a bunch of this Epic v2 stuff around and it's starting to sound a lot like it's telling "buy me..."

Success!

XPG had a box of Kratos in stock, and picked up a second Starter Box.

Which would count as today’s hobby. But no. I will get those bases painted, and the Tanks and Dreads sprayed.

Paint Tanks and Dreads tomorrow to one stage or another. Sunday? Build my new Kratos.

And bases FIN.

Mechanicus Standard Greg base, Army Painter Castle Grey stippled. Celestra Gret stippled. Thin Agrax wash.

Will leave them to dry for a bit, then get the infantry on them.

And because one base dried ahead of the others?

My first finished playing piece.

At this rate you will run out of things to paint! Lot of progress.

Ambitious. If you commit to this then you may well end up with a wierd requirement: More display and shelfspace required...

 Nevelon wrote:
At this rate you will run out of things to paint! Lot of progress.

Hmm.

I think this earned a photo of my Pile O’Stuff 🤣🤣🤣

Currently doing little and often and building my hobby stamina. I hope to get to “10 28mm MkVI a day”. As I’ve quite the backlog!

But thank you all for you comments and encouragement. It does help maintain the momentum.

Oh go on then. One last piccie for the day, as I’m now off to Lobotomy Bay.

Right definitely last update of the day, as I’ve now nicked off down the pub for beer and fajitas.

But before I left home, I painted in the kilts on the Terminators. I may try the peturges tomorrow. But really not sure.

Which bits are the "peturges", Doc?

Flappy arm pitty bits.

I’m sure they’re called peturges? I may very well be wrong.

Spelling wrong (Pteruges) but otherwise correct.

I thought that was just the strapy bits on belts, but a quick search show’s it all flappy strapy protective bits attached to armor in the grecko/roman style

Yarp. Basically reinforcing with a flexible layer of armour.

As for tomorrow? Finish basing the Infantry, get the Dreads and Tanks I have built at least base coated, and build my new Tanks and Dreads wot I bought today.

Sunday? Bit torn. Could get the next round of bases all done and dusted, as those take no time, and get the new infantry sprayed up.

Also need to keep in mind I’m back to work next week, and have an appointment Monday evening. So that’s gonna impact my time and attention span.

Work again getting in the day of hobby.

What are you listening to while doing this everyday, if you indeed listen to anything? I for on can't imagine hobby time withoutusic in the background.

Usually got my telly on, or some YouTube nonsense.

Day 6

And that’s all the infantry on their bases. Paintjobs are quick, dirty and here there a bit sloppy, but I’m super chuffed with how it turned out.

Next up is painting the rim of the Plasma Infantry to really make them stand out on the field.

Then I’ll get my new tanks and Dreads assembled, as I might as well get all of that good stuff base sprayed at the same time, to be picked at over the coming week.

Continued with the assembly of three Predators and two Sicarans. I can’t praise GW enough for giving us enough turrets to be able to cover all those options. But I’ve gone with Lascannon sponsons all glued.

Next up four Kratos and just as many Contemptors.

Day Six finale I think.

4 Kratos, just awaiting their sponsons. Might polish them off later, might leave that for tomorrow.

Day Seven

Busier day today as I’m due at friends for Dinner and incredibly important Puppy Fussing. Even though he’s now giagantic for a Pup.

So it’s been largely prep today. Finished off the four Kratos, assembled the four Dreads, and got Missile Launchers on the shoulders of the heavies.

I expect to have some time and energy left when I get back, which will probably be put to getting my HQ Stand painted. It’s all sprayed and had a layer of the black, but needs some detailing.

Also expect to get the new infantry sprayed.

Day Eight

Work done so Hobby Time for an hour.

Infantry Sprues sprayed up yesterday have now been broken down. This is to give me better brush control and access, whilst leaving something for me to handle without getting my dabs on the models.

Next up is the old steps. Top half dry brush of Gun Metal. Then Army Painter Grim Black. After that whip round with the Gun Metal to pick out weapons. Vampire Red splodges on the right Pauldon. Mostly done at that point, with just unit-specific tickles.

I’d be very surprised and a bit disappointed in myself I don’t blitz all that tonight. Will also count out their bases and go get those sprayed.

Hiatus for now, as got an appointment in 20 minutes and will have dinner when I’m back.

I am however comfortably on track to get all this done and dusted by the end of the night.

Day Nine

Picking up where I left off last night, as after my appointment and dinner, it was around 8pm and I couldn’t be bothered.

Speed Paint on the Assault Marines and Unit Command. Once that’s dry, out with the small brush to pick out the metallics on everything. Then the red spldoge spot colours. After that anything fancier. Like blue glow on the plasma, white Kilts on the Terminators, plus cloaks and that on the Big Command Stand.

Bases are already sprayed, so may crack on with them tonight too. But, I may do those on Lunch tomorrow, and get stuff stuck on them tomorrow evening.

Metallics done now.

Bases and models all done. Will get the models mounted once those are dry. And I’m about to base spray the Dreadnoughts.

Unt…..FIN!

In truth if I’d not had the interruption last night, I’m confident I would’ve got this all done then.

Day 10

Kicking off with a quick lunchtime session, drybrushing 12 Contemptors. Same technique as the smaller infantry, albeit with a greater amount of red spot colours, as the black will definitely need breaking up.

Should have the whole lot done by close of play this evening.

Keep going doc!

Nice going, very good work! And yes, the flappy bits are called pteruges. Bring back that fashion, I say.

This is seriously the most I’ve painted in at least two, two and half years. And the most enthused I’ve been about painting in what feels like forever.

Combination of working from home, better mental health and better, more accessible paints. Like Contrast/Speed Paints. Also adopting “little and often” sessions really helps breakdown an unpainted pile into bite sized, entirely manageable chunks.

Anyways. I’ve been out to get more soft drink and some beers for later. Time to earn those beers by getting the Dreads done.


Have also sprayed the Predators ready for tomorrow. I figure if I do the dry brush stage at lunch, the evening shift will be a doddle in terms of motivation.

Also, I’m nearly done with my existing Legions Imperialis stuff. Certainly by the end of this week, at a squadron a night, I’ll be all done. After that? 28mm Dark Angels, focussing on two 20 man Tactical Squads to start, probably aiming at 5 Marines a day minimum and see how my stamina holds up.

And if I get sick of painting? I’ve 30 MkIII, a Landraider Proteus, Jetbikes and a Deredeo to be built.

And done!

I may revisit later, as perhaps they could do with a spot of grey. But I’m happy with them right now.

Great stuff MDG! What a heap of progress, it's very inspiring. I'll crack into some painting myself this evening.

Thank you All about the Little And Often.

Not having kids, pets or a missus, I can make that often daily. And I appreciate not everyone is in the same boat. But breaking my head out the notion “painting requires hours of dedication at a time” has really helped. I don’t think any of my sessions has gone much beyond two hours.

Also, that’s my Demi-Company now fully painted to a reasonable table-top standard.

There is room to expand it (Rhinos as Dedicated Transports) but that’s awaiting payday, and hopefully another wave of releases.

I do need to be realistic with myself that progress is not going to be as rapid with my 28mm Heresy stuff. Whilst again I’ll be going for fast and cheerful tabletop, washes and highlights will be needed regardless.

I’ve always found that regular trips to the paintbench was the key to progress. Sit down, put a layer on a model or 2, go about your evening. Do that every night, and you have solid results.

Keep at it!

My friend (Psysquig on YouTube and Twitch) is a dedicated and excellent painter.

He’s going to show me how to pre-shade spray stuff. Which hopefully will help me motor through the 28mm Dark Angels.

I’m going to repeat the scheme across both, because that just appeals to me. So predominantly black armour, fairly plain Bolters (maybe plating picked out in black or dark grey), and a red right hand shoulder pad.

Once I’ve had a practical demonstration on the spraying I should have it down. I figure lunch on day get the spraying done, and do the first five the same day. Maybe more if I get my airbrush setup somewhere semi-permanent.

I’ve got something like 60 basic Tacticals (might be 80?) 30-40 Tactical Support and 30-40 Heavies all built. If I can increase my output to 10 a day, I’ll be done in bugger all time.

Also got a poo load of tanks for Heresy. I’ll intersperse those as palette refreshers. Same with the Dreads. Which stand at 7 Contemptors, 2 Leviathans and 2 Deredeo.

Good to have a plan. It helps to intersperse fun things with slog things to keep things fresh. Reward yourself for doing another 5 basic guys by painting a fancy thing. You do all the fun stuff first, you end up with a whole bunch of basic guys you will burn out working through.

Day 11

Here we go. Demi-Company completed (for now!) so it’s on to the Armoured Company. Six Predators and their turrets drybrushed, ready for the Grim Black Speed Paint.

Feeling a bit like Lt Gruber, obsessing over my Little Tanks.

Have also started the base spray for the Sicarans and the alternative turrets. But that’s boring so I’ve not taken a pic.

This is epic! Very inspirational, keep up the good work Doc!!

Epic.

Heh.

Thank you

Not gonna do anymore today, as I need to spend some time outside the house. Which means I’m off to the pub for some beer, and to read my new 2000AD Ultimate Collection.

I have done the speed paint on one of them though!

Lookin good Doc!

Great work rate so far - very inspirational. Tiny marines and armour look beaut.

Enjoy the pints - you've earned them!

Gonna be another light day of hobby I’m afraid. Got a friend coming over to experiment with our proposed format for a YouTube movie review type show.

But even if it’s just spraying some Kratos, I’ll get something done today. Weekend I’m free so will have plenty of time to advance things to where I wanted to be.

Will you're channel be called "the mad review" or something along those lines? Would gladly have a look at this show whenever it comes out!

Day 12

Sprayed some Kratos.

Picking up slack over the weekend.

YouTube channel is as yet unnamed. In theory, test video being filmed on Sunday.

Excellent project! I need to get something similar going this year. Problem is I do have that troublesome missus and kids

Set whatever schedule you think will work around your lifestyle without impacting it.

Could be “do four hours a week of hobby”, and get half hour here, hour there or what have you. For me it’s about not being a lazy anus and actually putting the thousands upon thousands of pounds I’ve spent over the past few years to better use. The important thing I’ve found is not to hold myself to an especially high standard. Yesterday was the least I’ve done in a day (one side of one unit sprayed), but it still counts, because I’m still inched toward the overall goal.

Once I’ve got army stuff done, I’ve four sets of Necromunda tiles and I genuinely forget how much walls, pillars and columns for those, plus markers and platforms and other gubbins. Because much as I want to play Necromunda, I reckon I’ll have an easier time hooking players in if I can provide a truly unique gaming experience of suitably dense and varied boards. And I dare say I may, later in the year, be in a position to do the same for Epic scale terrain, either GW bought or third party. Possibly a mix of the two. Whilst I’m not about to go buy a 3d Printer, I do have a friend who can, if I ask him nicely, pop out the odd piece here and there for stuff I can’t easily buy or scratch build.

Anyways, it’s Day Thirteen, and after two evenings off? It’s a weekend and time for bumper activity. Today’s slate looks like this. 6 Predators and 4 Sicarans in various stages of completeness, and their alternative turrets. And tomorrow, ideally get my 8 Kratos done. The squat pot there is my brush soap. I cannot recommend brush soap enough. Keeps your brushes ticketyboo!

Pic 2. Gun Metal Dry Brush stage completed. Next up is Speed Paint Grim Black of course. Also known as the longest stage. After that tracks and weapons and some spot areas back in Gun Metal, then Red panelling here and there. Possibly a grey spot to break up the black. And of course, some glowy effect on the Plasma.

Getting there. Sicarans are slightly trickier, as there’s not really anywhere to safely hold it whilst putting on your base coat, so having to do it in stages and let it fully dry. Predators didn’t have that hiccup because I put their ram bar on, which is just enough to hold them by.

But, well on course to get all these done by the end of the day. May even have spare effort left over to start on the Kratos proper.

The problem with following this series is that it makes me feel like I'm the one doing the work. No need to paint my own stuff when I can follow someone else painting theirs!!

Paint your own

Have again copped out, and that’s about for today.

Which is a weird feeling. On one hand? I’ve absolutely met my own criteria, so Days 1-13 all remain a success.

But, where I thrashed out the infantry super quickly, I feel I’m slacking because I’m doing the Tanks a bit at a time.

I guess the important thing is not to beat myself up about not being equally productive ever day. Because if I do? I risk losing all motivation.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
I guess the important thing is not to beat myself up about not being equally productive ever day. Because if I do? I risk losing all motivation.

100% - think about how much you've achieved already in less than 2 weeks!

Keep going doc, one slall step at a time.

Actually, I'm getting absoluty sluggish with my own painting as of now, should probably do the same as you do, less is more

Day 14

Back at it once again.

Finished off the tank hull speed paint, and the same on the Sicaran Accelerator Autocannon Turrets.

Once they’re dry, back round with the metallics to do tracks, pewpews and ram bars. Going to be a bit more selective this time, as the greater detail on the tanks will require it.

Really looking forward to getting this batch done.


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Weird thought. Pulling this off this year (just 50 more weeks to go!), I need to think about next year. Yes I’m one to forward plan.]

Only, I expect to have my backlog cleared completely at the current rate. So next year might be “buy then paint something every week”.

Which could be a fun way to expand collections or start a new army. Or get even more terrain done. Though big old boxed sets aren’t gonna be covered that swiftly. And I wouldn’t say no to a box or three of Epic buildings and that.

Starting to get the red spot colour down.

Once that colour has dried (Vampire Red from Army Painter) I’ll hit it with Pure Red from the same range to brighten it up.

After that? Metallics and probably done.

Calling that done for now.

I may revisit to darken down the tracks with a wash, but that’s tabletop standard for now.

Looks like you're continuing to make good progress, Doc - and that getting decent army shots is even trickier at this scale than normal

Dammit Jim I’m a investigator, not a photographer

Hoping to get a suitable display cabinet in the coming months. That’s when I’ll be able to get better piccies.

Whoa! You've gone epic scale! Looking good for such smaller scale stuff!

Day 15

Gonna be another day of easy stuff, as I have a weekly appointment. So gonna get the Gun Metal dry brush done on the 8 Kratos before I go, with some chance of doing their speed paint layer too.

But as an extra special treat? Here’s what I’m staring down next. So much Heresy. Gonna tackle it a bit at a time. The infantry I may be able to bash out quite quickly by aiming for five Marines each day, or equivalent when batch paining (so 20 in four days etc).

Tanks I’m fairly well primed for, because the Epic stuff has let me settle on where I want each colour.

Right, first possibly only bit of Hobby for Day 15.

Aye, that's already something. Base coating can feel boring, so better give them a session if their own and get them out of the way!

At the intended/hoped for rate of 35 infantry per week, it’s not as insurmountable as it might look at first.

But. First is a trip to the Bitz Box. I need to do a proof of concept job on a random Maureen, to see if just using the process on 28mm as Epic will work.

Fairly sure I’ve something kicking about that’ll serve for that. Because whilst I do have black spray, if I can let grey base, silver dry brush, black contrast do the heavy lifting? 5 a day will be nothing.

Day 16

Something slightly different today. I’ve selected a random spare Primaris (thanks, Conquest. Thonquest) who is now based coated Mech Grey and dry brushed. 10 or so mins and it’s on with the Speed Paint,

Going to give a straight replication of my Epic Scheme a spin, see how it holds up to 28mm. I’m hoping it holds up well. And if so? Away to Chaos Cards to get more paints stocked up.

OK. So it looks well ropey with the flash on. But this was just a very quick test model, and overall I’m happy with the result.

Provided I take my time on the Heresy Marines? This will work, and importantly, has significantly reduced the amount of time spent painting the armour.

Back on the not-quite-as-little-but-still-pretty-little Little Tanks.

Taking a big longer at this stage, because the only bit I can hold is….a bit of the tank. So I’m having to do it be degrees.

But, progress is progress is progress.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
The infantry I may be able to bash out quite quickly by aiming for five Marines each day, or equivalent when batch paining (so 20 in four days etc).

Aggressive targets there Mad Doc Grotsnik. I know I can usually only do two in two weeks. To kudos to you if you can make it happen.

Cheers,

CB

What’s this? It’s Mad Doc Grotsnik with a spanner in the works outta nowhere!

Just got a Mentoring Gig at work, which is gonna bring a bit more travel, including a week in the office where I’m normally entirely remote.

That week?

That week I build models, I think. Easier to setup and break down than painting.

Day 17

Here we go, 8 Kratos now all base coated.

Next up is let that dry, then whip round the Red Panelling (already decided where it’s going), maybe the odd spot of grey. Finally metallics and FIN.

I think I’ll leave the rest until tomorrow. I’m pretty wiped from work (see above post), so want to take it easy tonight. Plus it should mean I finish these tomorrow night, just in time for my Rhinos to arrive.

It took me a moment to fully process that was a landline in that previous photo and not some sort of movie prop or something

Those tanks are very cool, nice work!

I pay for the landline, so I’m buggered if I’m not using it. Though the landline is, at present, buggered. Really bad interference on the line.

As for the tanks? I dunno how anyone painted anything in Epic scale before Contrast or Brand Equivalent paints. They’re effing ideal for it!

...I painted a Mentor Legion army back when Epic: Armageddon came out. Including the green shoulder pad edges.

I must've been mad.

Definitely completely mad!

Today my Rhinos arrive, so I’ll need to get the Kratos all finished off tonight, maybe running into tomorrow.

Day 18

New toys arrived, and 5 of 20 Rhinos assembled. Less the ram bars. But I’ll be doing those next.

What do you think of the Rhino kit so far, Doc?

It’s pretty cool. The exhausts being separate isn’t as fiddly as I feared. And importantly, the main hull feels solid enough.

Will do the other 15 tomorrow. I’m out of stuff to do at work, so will just be monitoring my inbox and strategic mouse nudging. Giving me plenty time to do fun stuff.

It is great when you get on a painting roll. Great job mate.

Having to not be disappointed in my comparative lack of progress from Week One.

The difference of course is I wasn’t working on Week One. But I’m still doing something!

Day 19

The transport pool grows! First of two boxes of Rhino APCs fully assembled.

For army reasons, I’ve maxed out the optional weapons, as doing so complements my infantry units quite nicely, letting all three now have at least a go at anything.

Those rhinos look more like the older ones, or am I mistaken?

Nope, they’re the new ones. But that does remind me I have some original Rhinos and Landraiders under my bed!

Day 20

After a relaxing afternoon of napping, getting those Kratos finished off. Metallica done, reds next.

Lots of Dakka there!

Yup!

Also looks like I managed to miss a Kratos Cannon barrel. Will sort that later.

Just the red to go and I can call those done.

Day 21

That’s Numberwang, and all my Kratos done!

Not entirely happy with them, but something I’ll leave be for now.

Oh, and a saucy Group Shot.

Just 20 Rhinos to go.

You're really powering through these!

Being a horrific self critic, this took me three weeks, and I know if I’d really pushed myself I could’ve done this in a fortnight.

Thankfully I’m also fairly adept at knowing when to tell me to shut up.

Next week, I focus on the Rhinos, and probably make a start on my 28mm Heresy Dark Angels.

Day 22

Got my Rhinos basesprayed, as it’s been another hectic day.

Got tomorrow off (hair appointment am, want to hobby pm) so more progress then.

Watch the over spray. LOL!

Oh that’s the same box I’ve been using all year

Day 23

Another minimal effort day I’m afraid. Yes I had the day off work, but between my salon appointment and a good wander round town to get whatever pitiful sun one can get in January, I was also filming the second video for my friend and I’s nascent YouTube channel.

But I still got 5 Rhinos built, and sprayed the underside of the first 10.

I have however largely forgotten to eat. And given Dave and I tanned the best part of a bottle of Gentleman Jack whilst recording, I may come to rue certain decisions.

Day 24

Last five Rhinos assembled.

Will get these in the spray box later, and do the dry brush on the first 10.

Rhinos? Rhinos?

the enemy hide in METAL BAWKSES. The cowards. THE FOOLS.

Fiverus "Howevertheheckitswritten" Caron.

We’ll see how mouthy he is after we’ve run him over a few times.

You can't Stop the best Chaos marine to ever grace digital format.

Good job though, small steps and you will have conquered your hill of shame

With these done, that’ll be all my Legions Imperialis done. Next step will be in-roads to my 28mm stuff.

If the next wave of LI is announced on Sunday, it’ll be three or so weeks dedicated to 28mm, in which I’d like to get all my basic Tactical Marines done. There’s “only” 60 of them. At the moment. And 20 Tactical Support.

I’d like to get through that lot, as that’s a major chunk of a functional army done and dusted.

Oh, and proof I’ve not just been showing the same few Rhinos.

Entire transport pool, assembled and basecoated Mechanicus Standard Grey.

Day 25

Got the Rhinos dry brushed, ready for the most intensive stage, which is slathering them in Grim Black. I assure they all have a similar coating of the Gun Metal. The light is doing strange things though.

I’ve also ordered a Display Cabinet, which will arrived next Tuesday. Because all these painted models? Gotta put them somewhere!

Have you sorted a suitable transport case, assuming you're planning on them leaving the house/flat to go to games, Doc?

Not yet, no. But a friend is taking over a FLGS in the next town over, so may need to bend my thinks to that in the near future.

Want to get to 3k first though.

Day 26

And that’s the main hull colour down. Once dry, check for missed bits (not expecting many) then the metallics and red spot colours.

I currently need 19 to get every footslogger a lift into battle, so I’ve a “spare” for deciding where I want the red to go. There will be a future revisit, just as soon as I’ve sourced appropriate transfers for the tops, so Titan crews can do the canonical thing and tell what’s moving up in support of them.

Black definitely done. Went back round to tidy up missed areas (Army Painter Speed Paint has a habit of bubbling. Nothing paint job destroying, but worth knowing. Though it could be my technique) and blacked in the ram bars.

Now I’m off to the pub for some dinner and beer.

If a RH1NO shows you its belly, is that a sign that it is submitting to you?

It’s usually a sign I’m playing 2nd Ed and someone’s had one of me tracks off.

Day 27

Currently still in my bed, watching Twilight Zone.

Will get up and doing in a bit and crack on with the Rhinos, which I expect to finish off today.

Which means tomorrow? Tomorrow I scale up my Heresy. Think I’ll get the first Tactical Squad sprayed and dry brushed ready for the speed paint.

I have however bought, well, ordered, new paints which should be here early next week. If I run out between now and then, it’ll be Building.

Changed my mind. Needed a break from painting, so started assembly of the MkVI Assault Marines for Heresy.

As you can see, I’ve gone with Combat Shields. Mostly because the look cool.

Expanding the pile won't make it smaller

Jokes aside, how do you find the jump marine kit?

It’s pretty cool!

The arms have some level of possibility, as the weapons attach at the wrist. Whilst I’m following the instructions for now, there doesn’t seem to be much preventing us switching up which arm is used where.

Day 28

Back on the Rhinos. Just over half way doing the metallics, interrupted by my take away pizza arriving within 10 minutes of ordering.

I expect to get the metallics finished off in the next hour or so. It’s not a lot being done, but I need to be neat and tidy, to ensure my brushstrokes aren’t obliterating details.

I did get that finished. But forgot to do the tracks. I may await doing the red before I settle on that.

Day 29

And so begins the end of my current Legions Imperialis lot, as I bash out the red on the Rhinos.

Typing this before I set to it, as give the colour scheme there is temptation to try an A-Team van scheme for the Command Squad’s ride. But if I’m honest. I probably can’t be bothered.\

Yeah. I couldn’t be bothered. Maybe next time.

But? Th-th-th-th-that’s all, Folks! All my Legions Imperialis models fully painted. And to a reasonable tabletop standard.

Needs a wee touch up here and there where the top coat read dripped, but that’s a super quick job.

Looking good! So how does it feel?

Weird. But satisfying.

Hopefully this will be the harbinger of the next wave of releases.

Display cabinet arrives tomorrow, so once assembled and these guys deployed, I’ll get a group shot,

Great! Keep up the good work dok

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Weird. But satisfying.

Hopefully this will be the harbinger of the next wave of releases.

Display cabinet arrives tomorrow, so once assembled and these guys deployed, I’ll get a group shot,

When I saw you say you were done with this stage, without a group shot, I was going to come in and request one. You don’t just get to say things like that and not deliver pics!

Do you have a light box or photo setup?

Well, today’s Hobby is the “Assembling A Display Cabinet For My Models Hobby”.

This is a good hobby for displaying the fruits of the labours of your other hobbies.

For this Hobby, you’ll require a Display Cabinet, a friend to help you assemble the Display Cabinet, some Weak Lemon Drink, and tools to aid in the assembly of the Display Cabinet.

Once assembled and in place, you can display your completed models, and take photos of them for people on the Internet.

Hahahahahaahah!

Day 30

The cabinet is assembled and forces installed.

Did you wipe the glass first?

Great looking mini army though!

Very nice!

Don’t be silly! That’s a job for Future Doc!

Also, despite having been a GW employee three times? This is the first time one of my armies has been displayed in a cabinet. The odd model before? Sure! But the army is a first.

If anyone is looking for a similar cabinet? This one came from Argos. Not especially cheap at £230, but it’s a really solid construction, and the light comes with spare sockets, so one can always add more lights to taste and not end up with a bajillion plugs.

Speaking of plugs


https://www.argos.co.uk/product/2253130

Day 31

Here we go. It’s the big’un. Starting to get the 28mm stuff sorted. Going to undercoat a Tactical and a Tactical Support Squad tonight, and see if I can’t pump them out fully by the end of the week.

If I can? Rinse and repeat next week, then a Tactical squad followed by Heavy Support squad, then 3 Heavy Support Squads. Which will mean all my assembled Infantry are done.

Got enough Dreads, Doc? I count, what, 7 Contemptors, a Leviathan and a Deredeo?

Got another Deredeo and Leviathan to be built.

Again, mad doc, you are solely responsible for the scarcity of dreads just admit that you got a problem!

edit: darn. How long do you think you will have for all those dreads to paint?

Depends. I reckon I can bash one out in two to three sessions. Being Dark Angels, it’s a lot of black, and so much of the hassle is going to be neatly applying the spot colours and points of interest.

Also there is no problem here. At all. It’s all under control.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
And I’ve started the undercoat on 20 Tactical Support Marines. 10 Melta (say goodbye to your girl tanks) and 10 Volkite Big Rifles (for the CHOOM)

Tomorrow, I’ll at least get the undercoated Marines Dry brush done. Energy levels depending, I’m also hopeful of getting some done in Grim Black.

Friday I finish the Grim Black, and maybe start adding some Metallics in. Saturday potentially finish all 40, but the basing might wait until Sunday, and get the next 40 in the box for a good spraying,

I’ve over-achieved this evening, having undercoated 60 Marines of various stripes.

Day 32

No pic, but got the remaining 20 Heavy Support in the spray box.

Also found a full can of Mechanicus Standard Grey lurking in the Magic Box O’Stuff. Which is nice. Quick test scooch and it’s the same colour, which is doubly nice.

Think I’ll get all the infantry undercoated today, then get the drybrushing started. Figure getting all the infantry done is a necessary step, and I can then slow down for the Dreadnoughts and Tanks.

OK. Almost there with undercoating the foot infantry.

Have decided I’m going to get them all up to the drybrush stage together. From there I’ll tackle on unit at a time. Aiming, and I think it’s a genuinely realistic one, to have all 120 thrashed out by the end of February.

From there? Probably the Assault Marines and a brace of Dreads. Oh and I’ll need to do a character or two at some point. But I certainly expect that within say…..5, 6 weeks? I should have a working, Infantry Heavy Heresy army fully painted. Which will be nice.

Though at the rate I’m going? I may have my backlog of main interest all painted by June. Which could make the proceeding six months of the year interesting.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Uh oh.

That cabinet?

I can get another for 20%….and..I think I’m gonna need that.

Will checking funding.

Day 33

Oh Doccy Boy, the pub the pub is calling.

So just a quick bit done today, as feeling mentally wiped from work and a crap night’s sleep (thanks, next door neighbours having a late night part on Wednesday)

But that’s the first of three Tactical Squads at the drybrush stage. Tomorrow morning I’ll get tore into the other two, and start laying on the Grim Black.

Genuinely looking like I’ll have 60 done my Monday!

Mad Doc,

I think that is more figures than I now paint in a year.

Cheers,

CB

Cheers dude It’s more than I’ve painted in what feels like forever!

Day 34

All remaining Tactical Legionnaries drybrushed. Gonna sort out dinner, and then see about getting the first unit in the Grim Black. There’s a chance I’ll get all 60 done to that stage today, but we shall see.

Big armies at small sizes, and small forces at bigger sizes. NCE!

The legacy of reckless spending and not actually doing any hobby with it!

Now super confident I can get all my Infantry done by the end of the month, and likely a smattering of Dreadnoughts.

Wheeeeeeee!

Whatever happened to your potential Tyranid force, Doc, based around the bug that eats people?

Oh that’s over there, on the bookcase.

The rate I’m going, that force will be up next. Still need two more of the Scoffer Bugs though.

Many plans, and a decent disposable income means I shouldn’t ever run out of stuff to make, even if I wind up buying and painting a unit each week. Though for now, I don’t foresee much spending on Age of Darkness.

And another 20 done in the Grim Black.

By the time these are thoroughly dry, it’ll be past midnight. So I think I’m going to call it a day for now.

I may be even more productive in the coming weeks. As well as this challenge, I’m supporting a friend on her diet by me laying off the beer until March now. Which means I won’t be going out Friday or Saturday nights.

Oh no! I’ve over-achieved again, as all my Tactical Legionnaires have their Speed Paint stage done.

Other than basing, really is looking like I’ll have them all done by the end of tomorrow.

Now i am seriously curious as to how you are going about the sheme for your DA.

Also there's no overachievement. There's only the next batch... yes i am talking from experience

So, scheme is….

1. Mechanicus Standard Grey base/undercoat

2. Army Painter Gun Metal, liberally drybrushed all over. Yes including your fingers, don’t want them feeling left out.

3. Army Painter Grim Black Speed Paint, everywhere.

And that’s yer armour, and therefore a good 80% done. From there picking out metallics (back pack exhausts, bolter, strapping and under suit tubing). Probably a thin dark wash on those metallics just to knock them back.

I’m then going to finish off by painting the right shoulder pad in a dark red, and the same on the eye lenses.

Basing I’m yet to settle on, but won’t be anything too fancy.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
So, scheme is….

1. Mechanicus Standard Grey base/undercoat

2. Army Painter Gun Metal, liberally drybrushed all over. Yes including your fingers, don’t want them feeling left out.

3. Army Painter Grim Black Speed Paint, everywhere.

And that’s yer armour, and therefore a good 80% done. From there picking out metallics (back pack exhausts, bolter, strapping and under suit tubing). Probably a thin dark wash on those metallics just to knock them back.

I’m then going to finish off by painting the right shoulder pad in a dark red, and the same on the eye lenses.

Basing I’m yet to settle on, but won’t be anything too fancy.

I associate far too much with pointer 2.... but i feel it's necessary. That is indeed impressivly fast.

Scratching i assume you won't shade right?

No particular need to shade, as the three layers there pretty much take care of it.

Well, not on the armour anyways. The metallic bits will need something to add a smidge of depth, and knock back some of the shiny.

Think I may need to get some satin varnish though, for once I’m done. Could be my friend’s first sale in their FLGS!


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Next 60 are a mix of heavy and special weapons.

Going to slow down a smidge for those, as the Volkite and Melta weapons deserve some extra effects. Bit of glow effects and barrel heat bloom. Partly to push my skills, but also so they stand out that little bit.

And once my infantry is all done? Start belting through my 11 Dreadnoughts of various patterns.

Day 35

A most irregular activity. Helping install signage for a friend’s FLGS.

I’ll do some painting as well once I’m home and fed.

Looks cozy, where's that shop again?

Dover, in Kent. Just stopped off for a chippie, and once home will do some painting.

Also, so I’m definitely not bending the rules I invented and enforce alone?

Built a solitary Assault Marine.

Trolling your own thread, Mad Doc?

I was wondering why you do step 2 if the colour scheme is overall black, and you're trying to speed paint. Wouldn't it be quicker to do a light drybrush of gunmetal over the black? Or does the Army Painter black leave the metallic colour showing through? It's not really clear from the photos.

Just a form of pre-shading/zenithal highlight.

All black sometimes looks….all black, and singularly uninteresting.

By putting the gun metal on, the edges catch the light better, and there’s a pleasing transluncency.

It does look a bit bobbins on its own, but once the stronger block colours are on, it really comes together.

It is amazing how fast projects go when you have a bit of consistency to them!

Keep up the good work.

Day 36

Eyes are wrecked after work, where I spent most of the day gozzing at spreadsheets. Add in my weekly appointment reducing hobby time by an hour, and it’s another Light Duty Monday.

Built two Assault Marines.

Day 37

Second cabinet has arrived, and is now mostly assembled. Just need to put the bracer in, hang the doors and put the shelves in.

Probably should’ve decided where I want it to go. But I’ve not.


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I will also be cracking on with painting tonight. Thursday I start a D&D campaign, and Friday I’m recording for my YouTube channel (movie discussion and reviews and that), so I want to make good progress today and tomorrow, as I’m not gonna have much time in the late working week.

Ta Da!

Cabinet built, positioned, wired and mostly filled.

Other shelves are for….MOAR HERESY!

And made a start on the next stage - Metallica.

This is…pretty tedious. But, with thin paint and a well maintained brush, I will get them all done.

And yes, I’ll need to whip round and tidy up here and there, but that’s just normal.

Day 38

T. E. D. I. O. U. S.

Still on the metallics. Most of the way through the first squad, and whilst as said it remains tedious, I’m starting to get used to where it needs to go.

I may return to this later tonight, but my brush was starting to splay, so given it a wash (brush soap. Buy some, k?) and a rest.

Day 39

No painting. No building. No playing.

Instead, I’m off to write up a character for Dungeons and Dragons. A Goblin Rogue, who in time will use invisible Mage Hand to slip jobbies into pockets.

Scratch that.

Delivered 6 hours of training at work today, and my throat is raw. As I’ve another seven hours to cover tomorrow, stayed home to rest my voice.

Which means oot wi’ the paintbrush!

Just two more to go in this squad. I also nipped back round the original bunch, picking out the chest armour’s central “button”, which has set them off nicely.

Having a quick break and will finish off the Vexilia and Vox Marines. May also dig out the Nuln Oil to finish the metallics off. Which would mean tomorrow is Shoulder Pad Day.

You are close to finishing.

Just did the last two Taccies. In this squad. 40 more to go.

Gonna let them dry, then touch up the black as needed. Black wash (maybe with a touch of brown?), then just eye lenses and a red shoulder pad.

Though I think I want to do more metal detailing on the Bolters. Probably won’t bother.

Buggrit.

Need to revisit the reds, but that’s tabletop standard.

Short of transfers and basing?

Job done.

Day 40

Five more Taccies done in metallics. As ever they’ll need a wee tidy up here and there. Not covering up slight overflow, but also to cover the odd patch where the speed paint didn’t quite take.

Will get more done this evening, but as it’s the weekend (and my seventh day of No Booze) not gonna push myself. But it would be nice to get all 20 of this squad done in metallics, so tomorrow I can do the same on the third and final taccie squad, then Red Them (which is a super fast step). If I can, that would mean I’ve done 60, yes 60, Tactical Maureens in just one week.

Though I think I’ll revisit the Chain Bayonets, as there’s a circular greeblie I think I want to do in silver, as right now it’s just a big block o’black on the end of the Bolter, and so doesn’t look quite right.

Lawks-a-mercy I’ve sped up! Full taccie squad in metallics. And I baked Flapjacks and Cheese Straws this evening.

Give these a good half hour to dry, then whip round for a tidy up with the ol’ Grim Black.

Then I reckon I might as well finish the squad off.

Well done! Nice progress

They’ve got red on them….

And this is a layer that really needs to dry.

So very nearly done. Well. With this squad, which will be 33% of all my infantry done, and 66% of my Legion Tactical Squads.

All done. Apart from some more tidying, and revisiting to do plasma and power glow. However, that’s going to wait until I’m doing the Heavy and Special squads, so as to be more economical with paint.

Oh, and painting.

Have you got an idea in mind for basing, Doc?

Not yet, no.

I may just cop out and go with a light grey texture paint of some kind. But, I’m gonna leave basing until all the infantry has been painted.

Day 41

MOAR MAUREENS!

Doing the third and final Legion Tactical Squad this evening. First half done in metallics. And I’ve picked out an extra detail on the Chain Bayonet, which works a lot better.

So tomorrow, possibly Monday, I’ll whizz round the other squad and do that same detail.

Paints wise, I think im running worryingly low on the Gun Metal. So I’ve ordered some more, with First Class delivery. If I do run out, I’ll revert to building something.

And with that? The last Bolter is done.

Just need to do shoulder pads and a tidy up.

Day 42

Feels odd and a bit cheeky posting this so soon, but it’s 1:10am UK time as I type, so it does count.

Last squad very bloody incredibly nearly done.

Next up will be drybrushing the next unit/units. In a mood to do the Lascannons and the Volkite.

Unt!

FIN

Other than basing and transfers**, all my Legion Tactical Squads are done. I may revisit them for some fine detailing and that, but these are tabletop standard.

And just before bed…

In case anyone felt Day 42 was a bit cheaty?

Volkite Support squads in the black.

Should have those done by Wednesday I reckon, even if I do noodly detailing on the heavy Volkite.

Day 43

CHHHOOOOOOOOOOOM!

Man, these Volkite Cannon Things need a steady hand for the detailing.

Still need fancy barrel effects, but happy with that for now.

Will do the next 5 tomorrow, as it’s getting a bit late in the day.

Volkite is awesome. Shame about the calvier though ruleswise.


Looking great Mad doc, soon you will be forced into the obligatory army shot.

Be a few weeks before that I’m afraid. But chuffed to be powering through my infantry, as I was expecting them to take forever. But here I am, maybe a fortnight in to that particular project, and I’m comfortably over half way through.

I may give myself a break from them after this week though, and do a Dreadnought or three.

Day 44

Pretty tired today, and eyes are wonky due to extended screen time at work.

So it’s that old fallback, finishing assembly of the Assault Marines. I’ve used Power Swords from the MkVI Command sprue, as you can 1 per 5 squad members. And it seemed rude and churlish not to.

Small second wind. Giving glow effects a bash. First layer of a warmish orange over a bright silver. Pale yellow highlight to follow once this is dry.

Day 45

Getting the Volkite Heavy Support Squad finished off. Long bit is now done. Next up is the reddening, then repeat the “glow” effects from last night.

The Reddening underway, the Reddening finished. And first colour applied to the ribby bits of the Volkite. Then the last bit done.

Next? Tidy up. Not too much on this occasion, which is nice.

And all done.

And a pic of the Legion in its cabinet.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Day 44

Pretty tired today, and eyes are wonky due to extended screen time at work.

This ^ An oft overlooked effect of screen-heavy jobs.

Legions looking great... *looks at pile of Mean-green motha's form outta space*
*ahem* that's a lot of Volkite!

There really is something special about seeing just serried ranks of marines like that.

Gonna look even betterer once all the infantry is painted!

Got the whole weekend to myself, so may have that job jobbed by Monday. But realistically at least one squad will be done next week.

Jobs a gud'n!


I like to paint 1 unit of 10 at a time. The armies just melt-away.

Wow, you have speed down to an art Mad Doc.

Cheers,

CB

Day 46

Lower case choooooooom, as it’s the Volkite Caliver squad tonight.

6/10 with the metallics done. Having a break for now and will come back and finish the unit tonight.

Tum tee tum.

Nearly there! Just top coat red, eye lenses and barrel “glow” and this squad is done.

we are legion

I’m kind of freaked out that I’m actually actively enjoying painting.

I’ve always seen it as something of a chore. But not this year. This year it’s definitely therapeutic and enjoyable.

And done.

Tomorrow I’ll put the Meltagun and…..Autocannon squads to the Grim Black. But right now? Basing and transfers aside, that’s 2/3rds of my Infantry in the can.

You're making very good progress, Doc - keep up the good work.

Gonna have to start planning the armour side of my Heresy collection!

For now, here’s another Cabinet shot.

I imagine the Dreadnought side of things is reasonably similar to your infantry, with a bit more metallic detailing.

Will you be able to port your LI armour approach over to "28mm", do you think?

Honestly not sure.

I’ve got three Rhinos, so may use one as a test bed for that. Given the black is just three pretty thin layers (spray, drybrush, speed paint) if it looks naff, I should be able to spray over it without too much fuss or loss of detail.

Should work on the Dreadnoughts. And in terms of sacrificial prawns, I do have the old plakky Contemptor somewhere.

Wow, that's getting out of hand doc

Au contraire! It’s finally getting in hand!

This is stuff I bought when Age of Darkness first came out.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Day 31

Here we go. It’s the big’un. Starting to get the 28mm stuff sorted. Going to undercoat a Tactical and a Tactical Support Squad tonight, and see if I can’t pump them out fully by the end of the week.

If I can? Rinse and repeat next week, then a Tactical squad followed by Heavy Support squad, then 3 Heavy Support Squads. Which will mean all my assembled Infantry are done.

SEVEN contemptor dreadies? Are you a secret Iron Warrior or something??!

also is that scheme DA?

Yes seven. Is lucky number, no?

And yup, Dark Angels. They’ll be getting transfers at some point.

Day 47

Next two squads drybrushed, ready for the Grim Black. These lads are Missile Launcher and Meltagun, in case the pic is crap. Which is a reasonable expectation in this thread.

Do you also have autocannons?

I do. 10 Autocannons and 10 Lascannons.

I’ve also 20 unassembled MkVI, and a set of the Heat Based Heavy Weapons. Of those I reckon 10 popping out a Rhino or Landraider with Heavy Flamers ought to be Big Laffs. Spesh if the Landraider pops a transport so the Marines can invite the contents to the Barbecue.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
I do. 10 Autocannons and 10 Lascannons.

I’ve also 20 unassembled MkVI, and a set of the Heat Based Heavy Weapons. Of those I reckon 10 popping out a Rhino or Landraider with Heavy Flamers ought to be Big Laffs. Spesh if the Landraider pops a transport so the Marines can invite the contents to the Barbecue.

From personal experience... the transport popping is more effective than the flammers. But i like the enthusiasm

Never underestimate spamming wounds via template. Even if your AP is nothing to write home about, you can force a tonne of saves for the Dice Gods to get their jollies from!

Especially if it’s a 5 man elite squad like Terminators or some such.


Automatically Appended Next Post:
Hmm.

Still not dry.

So the downside of Army Painter speed paint is that it takes forever to dry!

Still, well positioned to get these all done tomorrow, and the next two units drybrushed and speed painted most likely.

Mild overachievement as I got my Autocannon Squad drybrushed, ready for tomorrow.

Feeling super optimistic at getting on to the Dreadnoughts by Monday.

Hey, they're called speed PAINT, not speed DRY, what you whinin about

True that.

Pre-orders done, barring the Spartans and a third desired box of Legion Support, but those I’ll pick up from my friend’s FLGS on release day (he’s a good egg and will put them aside for me, though I intend to be there for opening)

Having friends in strategic places always helps. I haven't bought anything new in ages really, and won't be doing it anytime soon as I restrict my urge to drop money at fancy stuff during Lent. . But being away on construction sites all week long is killing my painting pace outright!

Will get out my pit in a bit and crack on with the painting.

There’s a not zero chance I’ll get all the foot sloggers done today. Which means it’s time to decide if I’m spraying my Dreadnoughts grey, or black.

Day 48

Here we go. Given how long the Grim Black took to dry yesterday, kicked off by speed painting the Autocannon squad.

Next up is metallics on the Meltagun and Missile Launcher squad, plus the Dreaded Reddening.

Hopefully by then the Autocannons will be dry, so I can Metallics and Reddening them.




Automatically Appended Next Post:
Also, RIP second bottle of Grim Black.

You served well.

Metallics on the Autocannon done.

Which means that squad is now super close to being done.

Meltagun squad is next up. Shouldn’t take as long, as less metallic areas will need picking out.

Meltaguns done.

Not quite as fun as the others, as the design doesn’t have many obvious raised areas. But hey, they’re done now. Barrels will get some heat bloom effects at some point. Just not right now.

Dodeedooooooo.

Getting close to finishing now.

Missile Launchers are a right chore. But I’ll get there. Probably calling it a night now, but may yet do the final red and eye lenses on the Meltas and Autocannon.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Dodeedooooooo.

Getting close to finishing now.

Missile Launchers are a right chore. But I’ll get there. Probably calling it a night now, but may yet do the final red and eye lenses on the Meltas and Autocannon.

Dark angels, pah! Filthy plasma hoggin', nik nak eatin',corpse worhippin', indecisive colours depending on milennium, nice heraldry wearin', happy git!
nice paintjobs.

Cheers man. Guessing you’re a Dirty Daddy Issues Heretic

Meltagun and Autocannon Squad now done, including a quick bit of tidy up.

Not quite as happy with these though. But I’ll come back to them in the morning, see how I feel then.




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Also, that’s 100 Marines done! I’ve painted a modern company’s worth of Marines in about 15 or so days?

And this is the payoff. Definitely happier now seeing them with their Brothers.

Missile Launchers and Lascannons tomorrow!

Wow looking good Doc. Always nice to see a nice collection displayed like that.
I'm getting there with my HH forces but still a bit behind you, it's good to actually have some choice of miniatures available now but I always want more.
.

Phenomenal work and pace MDG - your new cabinet is going to look great (or even better) when the project is done.

A collection nicely ranked up and painted is always a pleasing sight

Thanks all

Turns out having a display cabinet really serves as inspiration to crack on.

Speaking of which…time to get up and get cracking.

First is drybrush and grim black the Lascannon squad. Whilst that dries, get the Missile Launcher squad finished, then it’s back to the Lascannons.

And with that? I should be done on the infantry. At least for now. Still need to do basing and transfers. But they’re usable for now.

Definitely want to do some Dreadnoughts next, but may gave the brushes a rest as I’ve a Leviathan and Deredeo to build.

And here I go!

Lascannons now in the Grim Black. Also previous pics showed some progress on the Missile Launchers, as I wanted to use the excess Gun Metal from the drybrush.

At the stage where short of my arms falling off, I’ll definitely have my infantry done today.

Will probably go spray a Dreadnought or three too, get setup for next week.

Missile Launchers now ready for The Dreaded Reddening.

As you can see, I’ve done a couple as tests for colour placement. With the right shoulder pad occluded by the weapon, the two bits picked out really bright up the model, bringing it together.




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First coat down.

Final coat is next, then whizz round and tidy up any splodges and whoopsies.

Those…were a chore. Not necessarily unenjoyable, but took longer than any other unit. But still, aside from tidy up they’re now done. And just in times for dindins.

Got three Lascannons done in the metallics, but now my eyes are on the wonk.

Gonna call it there, and that’s me probably done for the day.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Cheers man. Guessing you’re a Dirty Daddy Issues Heretic

I JUST WANT MY IRON WARRIOR DAD TO LOOOVE MEEEE!!!
meltagun, nice choice




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how you highlightin' the black armour, filthy loyalist?

I’m kind of not!

Recipe I’m using is Mechanicus Standard Grey base coat. I then do a heavy Drybrush of Army Painter Gun Metal (like Boltgun Metal in shade), then Army Painter Grim Black speed paint.

Works out about nice in terms of highlights.

Day 50

Being a Monday, it’s another evening appointment and so only a smidge of hobby.

That smidge, for now, being two more Lascannon Heavies done in metallics. 5 more to go, then it’s just Reddening, tidy up, and that’s my Infantry done.

Weird. It’s not letting me attach the pic.

Hmmm. Seems to be working now.

Day 51

Alright then, where’s your girly tanks?

Lascannon squad done in metallics. As ever, just the Dreaded Reddening then tidy up to go. And that will be my 120 assembled infantry done.

Will pick the next project and get it sprayed tonight, ready for some kind of further work tomorrow.

Tremendous work doc

Cheers dude

And now with a splodge of colour and a tidy up, really digging these now. Soon as the Vampire Red is dry, on with the True Red, and they’ll be done. Luvverly.


UNT FIN!

And the payoff.

Ere we go, ere we go, ere we go!

It’s finally Dreadnought o’clock.

Day 52

Here we come.
Stomping down the street.
Getting the most terrified looks from
Ev’ryone we meet.

Hey hey we’re the Dreadies
And people say that we’re OP
But we’re the old generation
And we’ve got plenty to slay.

IT’S DREADAPLOOZA!!!!

Cue pillarmen meme?


It does feel marvelous though, the horde of finished infantry,doesn't it?

Most definitely. To the point I’m somehow not actually sick of painting them. I’ve got 20, possibly another 40 in the box room, and a bunch of Heavy and Special weapons unused, so there’s definitely scope for more.

But this lunchtime, I’ve been assembling the second Deredeo. Aiming to get all my Dreadnoughts assembled and sprayed, so I can at least try to batch paint them.

Yes I am a bit mental.

No. From experience in batch painting you are doing the right thing.

Do need to dig out my magnets though, as I’m keeping my Leviathans flexible.

And that’s the second Deredeo assembled.

Quite an enjoyable, if fiddly kit. Will need a schmear of liquid green stuff or similar on that top plate though. Not ideal on a plastic kit, but not exactly a cardinal sin.

Next up will be the second Leviathan.

Looking BADASS Doc, congratulations on some serious hobby momentum!

At my current rate, and providing I can smash through the Dreads at a reasonable rate? I may have all my 28mm Heresy stuff done by the end of April.

Also, now need to buy more plastic glue.

Day 53

With a big splodge of Gun Metal, and my biggest brush? Three Contemptors ready for the Grim Black speed paint.

Which will have to wait until tomorrow, as I’ve a D&D session tonight.

Random question, but do you plan on painting any of your Heroquest stuff?

At some point, yes. And almost certainly this year. As I now have all the expansions, my approach there will be to paint dungeon-by-dungeon. That should break it down into manageable chunks.


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Day 54

The Dreadening.

All seven done to drybrush. Next up is Grim Black on the lot of them. Somewhat optimistic I can get them all done by the end of the weekend.

And in the black.

That’s probably it for tonight, on account they’re gonna take a while to dry.

First thing tomorrow is checking them for any run off or missed spots and sorting those. Then, as with the Infantry? Metallics o’clock.

That is a lot of finished Space Marines, nicely done!

Thank you Not gonna lie, I’m pretty chuffed with myself!

How many expansions is HeroQuest up to these days, anyway?

Erm…..

Kellar’s Keep*, Return of the Witch Lord*, Mage in the Mirror, Frozen Horror, Spirit Queen’s Torment*, Prophecy of Telor*, Rise of the Dreadmoon, Against the Ogre Horde.

Those are your dungeon expansion, with the occasional new hero.

Pure Hero Expansions are…

Wandering Monk, Guardian Knight, Rogue Heir.

*these ones came with my Hasbro Pulse pledge thingy.

Day 55

Dread Reckoning 2.

So off to a certain start, touching up the Grim Black. I genuinely cannot praise this Speed Paint enough. Whilst in no danger of winning anyone any award, apart from “laziest sod”, as a Contrast-A-Like Black I get a really good coverage, without streaking. The second pic is a close up, which will hopefully post OK. As you can see, just enough of the grey and silver base coat is showing to make it look like I’ve bothered to highlight.

This stuff kicks ass! It kicks ass!




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Also I’ve had a headache most of the day, which has been “fun”. Worse, I’m thinking it might be eye strain from VDU use at work. And so I’ve not made much more progress.

Have now acquired ibuprofen, so hopefully in an hour or so I can start laying down some metallics.

Now picking my placement for the metallics. It’s kind of slow going, but my Standard Brush is on the wonk, so I’m using a detail one.

I will get there though, and this absolutely counts as Something Hobby for today.

Just as bloody awful 90’s Britpop Oasis once “sang”? Little by Little.

Really starting to develop a steady hand and brush control skills, as I picked the rivets out with barely a splodge.

 Mad Doc Grotsnik wrote:
Just as bloody awful 90’s Britpop Oasis once “sang”? Little by Little.

Really starting to develop a steady hand and brush control skills, as I picked the rivets out with barely a splodge.

They look AWSUM. I'm planning on building one for my 40k IW and these might genuinely be my favourite dread designs. If I may ask, I have started a P&M blog as well, and have uploaded images, yet, when i reply to my own topic the unrelated text renders above the images which they are supposed to be under. Would you know how to solve this problem?

Erm…I’ve no idea! When attaching the image, you can give it a description. I don’t know if there’s a character limit, as when I’ve done they’ve been short captions.

Your other choice would be to upload to say, Photobucket, and use hyperlink thingies to slot them into the text where you want them.


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Anyways.

Planning ahead, I may soon take a break from my Dark Angels, and switch up my projects.

I’ve got my long gestating “2nd Ed to Modern Ed” Eldar project. Got the models built and in cabinet No.2, and somewhere I’ve got the paints to do them at Atlansar. And I’ve got my gribbly Tyranids from Leviathan, including 20 Termagants I haven’t been arsed to build.

Those are of course far smaller projects, but more involved on account Dark Angels are that gloriously blocky black. But as a palette cleanser, playing with brighter colours should work. And certainly for the Nids, I’ll be breaking out my Contrast Paints, and maybe I’ll even be a bit clever with them.

 bullisariuscowl wrote:
If I may ask, I have started a P&M blog as well, and have uploaded images, yet, when i reply to my own topic the unrelated text renders above the images which they are supposed to be under. Would you know how to solve this problem?

As far as I'm aware, if you directly attach images to a post, they'll always appear at the end of the post.

If you want the flexibility of inserting images into your post wherever, might I suggest making use of the Dakka Gallery as a host? You can upload images into it, organise it into folders, then use the code presented under the "Forums" option to add the image anywhere within your post. See this most recent upload of mine as an example. Note - I normally do this on my laptop, and I don't know how easy it is to use on mobile.

Day 56

There we go, I’ll call the base metallics on this one done. As you can see some bits have had Nuln Oil, and the rest will get that later. After that just The Dreaded Reddening and I’m calling this one done. Yes apart from basing.

Really enjoyed picking out the rivets, which frankly is not something I ever thought I’d say ever. But I did!

He’s got Red on him.

Letting that layer dry, then on with the final brighter one. Quick tidy up after, and that should be job’s a good enuff ‘un.

Not quite belting through the seven this weekend, but hey ho. Progress is progress. And I’m out of plastic glue for now, so gonna make the other six last until next weekend, when I get some more.

Calling that done, for now. Needs transfers and basing. But transfers are a Next Month purchase, as this month I had to tax my car. Which sucked.

That was a bit of a fib. Went back for some extra detailing. Those rivets are tiny, but picking them really does make a difference.

Day 57

It’s……another Dreadnought! In a complete surprise to no-one who’s been following the thread.

Twin Autocannon this time, and definitely working at a faster pace. Pretty much 50% of the metallics on this particular bad boy done.

Wee bit tricky get into the crooks and Nannies, but got them all the same.

Should have him done over tomorrow’s lunch break, and will make inroads to the third tomorrow evening.

You'll enevtually come to a point where keeping this thread up will force you into actually buying more minis

Oh good sir. You underestimate my pile of opportunity.

Hundreds of pounds worth of terrain, a near complete set of HeroQuest and its expansions, with another releasing soon.

Plus two each of the new boxes for Legions Imperialis arriving this weekend.

Not to mention the second Leviathan, 6 Jetbikes and a Land Raider Proteus yet to be built.

Doc you're my hero! Whenever anyone says i have too much I can just point to you and say I'm trying to follow your good example.

Awww shucks.

Key is to just commit to doing at least a little each day. Could be undercoating, could be doing half a model in base colours, a wash or what have you. Bit by bit it comes together.

Though I’ll admit I did go a bit mental with the Tactical Legionnaires, as I had been expecting them to take about a month.

Also done a bit more on the Dread, and revisited the first one to break up the black of its frontage. Painted some spot colours of Gun Metal, and the abdomen bit in Gun Metal too. Much happier with how it now looks - but it does need a wash to bring back the depth.