Lead Adventure Forum
Other Stuff => Workbench => Topic started by: King Arthur on March 11, 2020, 04:18:19 PM
-
Fellow hobbyists,
I finally begin a project that has been on my mind many a year, that of building a gaming board from scratch! The project will be a board that will measure 80 x 60 cm and will be made in 2 parts for ease of storage. The setting for the board will be High Fantasy, echoing games such as Baldurs Gate or Pillars of Eternity and will be used to play skirmish games such as Rangers of Shadow Deep or RPG's using miniatures.
This first board piece will feature a backdrop of a rock face with a waterfall cascading down in to a pool. The base materials used were hardened white polystyrene and blue xps. I begun by cutting out cubes so I would have a base on which to attach my rock formations:
(https://i.ibb.co/Ksn8h15/IMG-5620.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/hc51pYY/IMG-5621.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/37t2NLh/IMG-5619.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/HdTp9xS/IMG-5622.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cLhXsCB)
Now try and imagine that collection of polystyrene blocks as a rock face with a waterfall ;)
I also cast my rocks out of good old Plaster using the excellent Woodlands Scenic silicone rock moulds:
(https://i.ibb.co/7gfbbtN/5.jpg)
Next up I will attach the rocks and begin adding the foundations for the earth and grass flocking using a modeling compound. Sty tuned for more!
-
Promising start :)
I’ve got the WS moulds myself and they are very useful although some of the really tiny ‘rocks’ seem a bit pointless to me.
-
Promising start :)
I’ve got the WS moulds myself and they are very useful although some of the really tiny ‘rocks’ seem a bit pointless to me.
I agree, the larger rocks are really good though! For the smaller ones I use actual stones etc
-
Great start, will watch your progress with interest
:)
-
Next phase done, I attached the rocks and started to apply the modeling compound to the surface in preparation for the flocking>
(https://i.ibb.co/t3fmCJ2/6.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/vXj0YwR/7.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/VpF1xjV/8.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/r6MKx43/9.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/cxv8GKB/10.jpg)
I covered the base of the pool in plaster to give it an uneven surface.
Next up I'll fill in the gaps on the rock formation.
-
Cracking start. That rock face looks good.
-
Looking very good. Is the plaster significantly lighter than using real rock?
-
Good to see it here! :)
-
Looks good!
I’ll be interested to see what you do with the pond :)
-
Really great work so far; the cliff face looks excellent.
-
Good progress 8)
-
Looking very good. Is the plaster significantly lighter than using real rock?
Hey Digits,
I'd have to say yes, it certainly is, I'm not in a position to explain my answer in a Scientific capacity, but the plaster rocks have a weight to them but far less than a real counterpart would have. The board is still light enough to lift one handed.
-
Looking really good so far! ;)
-
Good to see it here! :)
:D
Indeed, I didn't think it right to keep the project and all the pictures stored on my iPhone!
-
I'd have to say yes, it certainly is, I'm not in a position to explain my answer in a Scientific capacity, but the plaster rocks have a weight to them but far less than a real counterpart would have. The board is still light enough to lift one handed.
I can confirm this.
As it is, I'm working with exactly the same moulds at the moment for my own new table, and even though the pieces will not be shifted by a strong draft, they are significantly lighter than actual rocks.
The only material that I can think of that is lighter and nets comparable results is tree bark, but I must admit I'd much rather work with the plaster moulds instead (less beasties, repeatable results and predictable material characteristics).
Your table is looking pretty promising and I'm curious as well as to how you will be going about the pond and waterfall.
May I ask; why this unusual size for this table?
-
So, here's the next round of progression on the board, I used a modeling compound from Geek Gaming, you could also use Sculptamold too, to finish off the ground base and also to fill in the gaps of all the rocks. As it dries solid, it locks all the big rocks in place and gives you a really sturdy base to work from. I will also add the statue that you see in the pictures to the final build, most likely to represent a deity of sorts.
(https://i.ibb.co/sWtX0bM/12.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Mh37zkf/11.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/pzsPwG6/14.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/gy4KRh3/13.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/DQyVBpn/15.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/kSRCnVr/16.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/kSdw5fS/17.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/p1RwJ17/18.jpg)
The 'tree' is a small twig from my local park.
So, from a pile of polystyrene blocks, to a rock face in a few steps using plaster, paper and water :)
Next phase will be to paint the rocks :D
-
I like it! Proper job. Good work :)
-
I like it! Proper job. Good work :)
This!
-
Exactly. I mean you could have just bought a mat ;)
lol
-
May I ask; why this unusual size for this table?
I just edited the opening post, the dimensions are 80cm x 60cm.
I had planned an 80cm x 80cm as that is a 'recommended' size for example to use with Rangers of Shadow Deep. I had wanted to order 4 sheets of the hardened white polystyrene but for reasons unknown I only ordered two.... each sheet measures 40cm x 60cm and I had wanted to cut off the extra from the other boards, but alas, I couldn't.... I also wanted to crack on straight away without waiting another 5 days for a new delivery, so ended up with 80cm x 60cm over two boards.
I'm not concerned as most skirmish games pit in the region of 6 Hero's vs 6 - 10 enemies or in good old fashioned RPG style, 6 Hero's vs some Trolls or an Ettin or a Dragon.... so a large space isn't paramount as we will focus on combat.
-
Exactly. I mean you could have just bought a mat ;)
lol
That would be cheating ;)
Mats have there uses in terms of ease of use, storage and affordability, however, I wanted something more in depth alongside the opportunity to give my Children the chance to use a gaming table such as this, as I never had that chance as a kid, instead trawling through White Dwarf mags looking at the studio gaming tables there, saying to myself, one day, oh yes, one day........
-
Next phase completed, that of painting all the rock surfaces! This step is done at the beginning of the 'decor' phase as it's quite messy:
(https://i.ibb.co/MkRvTJs/19.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/5rQ5WGJ/20.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/yW7yq3q/21.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/259QcKL/22.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/wpRfJCr/23.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/bbkxWYV/24.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/RYXYXry/25.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Xs9prmB/26.jpg)
The technique is a tried and tested one, used in Model Railroads called 'Leopard Spotting'. You use layers of very thin washes next to and then over one another, it gives off some very realistic colour tones!
-
Looks great 8)
-
I've also used the Geek Gaming Modelling Compound and it really is a great product. Highly recommended.
The board looks fantastic and I look forward to seeing more.
Tony
-
I do something similar,never knew it had a name :)
Outstanding :-*
-
On to the next step! I gave all the rock surfaces a couple of coats of clear acrylic matte varnish and set to work on them, using the excellent Pan Pastels. Straight from the 'pan' and 'paint' the pigment directly to the rock surface, I added tones of browns and greys to deepen some shadows and contrasts whilst using various greens to mark out where lichen will be growing, algae is present etc. I then sprayed all the rock surfaces again with hairspray a few times to lock in the pigments.
(https://i.ibb.co/31K9VfP/27.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/F097q4Z/28.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/F5q2cqF/29.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Xz7hz9n/30.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/6y71rzx/31.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/n16BtBv/32.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/DCHCQGz/33.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/QnFTnWY/35.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Bg6W7HN/36.jpg)
I also based coated the ground areas with muddy browns and greens in preparation for the flocking.
-
Love it. This is going to be special. Really well done :-*
-
On to the next step! I gave all the rock surfaces a couple of coats of clear acrylic matte varnish and set to work on them, using the excellent Pan Pastels. Straight from the 'pan' and 'paint' the pigment directly to the rock surface, I added tones of browns and greys to deepen some shadows and contrasts whilst using various greens to mark out where lichen will be growing, algae is present etc. I then sprayed all the rock surfaces again with hairspray a few times to lock in the pigments.
(https://i.ibb.co/31K9VfP/27.jpg)
That's masterclass, that is. I mostly use pastels for rust and to dust vehicles.
-
Blimey - absolutely lovely rocks!
Never heard of leopard spotting, I shall investigate and bodge the attempt accordingly.
-
Absolutely superb.
-
The colours on the rocks look amazing.
-
Love it. This is going to be special. Really well done :-*
High praise indeed from one such as you, thank you Richard :D
-
Good afternoon all,
The next phase has been completed, I flocked the base and the hill areas either side of where the water will be:
(https://i.ibb.co/qRnfpGw/37.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/j4zyZsh/39.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/4fRk4wB/34.jpg)
Once that had settled I begun to add some foliage and further details, primarily to the hill areas and some pink moss in and around the rocks where the waterfall will be:
(https://i.ibb.co/Y08RRmv/41.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/DMksQ7p/42.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/WHj87S8/43.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/vmqPddr/44.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/G9yWpnh/45.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/cDVZwsY/46.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/RBd4zh0/47.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Th1q9LN/48.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/c3wz02q/49.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/FqmPQnK/50.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/g7cx1mN/51.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/1rwt7f4/52.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/34BM5qy/53.jpg)
The fern bushes are from Geek Gaming, under Tree Foliage, the pink moss is also from Geek Gaming; the flowers are by Mini Natur.
The next steps will be adding some scattered flowers to the main grass area and adding the details to the pool such as reeds, rocks, fallen branches and some plant life that has grown around the edges.
More to follow later ;)
-
It's really coming to life, looks great.
-
Great blend of foliage and colours there- very nice work!
-
I like your style sir.
Very VERY nice. A proper job indeed. Kudos 8)
-
Thanks to one and all for your positive comments, so far it's been immense fun to build this half of the table :D
I completed another portion last night, I added all the details to the pool ahead of the resin pour. Some fallen logs covered in moss, some stones and also plant life growing in places of the inner pool and around the edges:
(https://i.ibb.co/ZxcHRnR/1.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/JtvfFjC/2.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/DttNKpD/3.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/njgb5Nr/4.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/D52rW8j/5.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/2nRnxWm/6.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/RHqnJ7t/7.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/GH6gryV/8.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/x1jP6vF/9.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/QjnD0FV/10.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/pyZFRP2/11.jpg)
Next, I will finish the tree and paint the statue that will be placed into the pool alongside some fishes that inhabit the water:
(https://i.ibb.co/L9bqryW/12.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/JKr5bm9/13.jpg)
Stay tuned for more ;)
-
Excellent :)
-
Lovely stuff and very instructual for an experimental piece I'm currently working on.
I'm following this with interest and will be sure to try some techniques on my test peice.
-
Lush, literally and metaphorically. This is a lot like Blackwolf’s approach to groundwork and greening. Don’t stint with the different basing materials! You must have bags and bags of different flocks, tufts, flowers, plants, aggregates and so on :o
-
Funny you should say that Richard, King Arthur and I are using the same fish,great minds,and all that lol
Great build K.A. :) And watch out for bubbles ;)
-
Lovely work.The foliage give a fantastic effect.
-
And watch out for bubbles ;)
A little handheld blowtorch can help with that(as long as they have risen to or near the surface.
-
Deeply impressive.
I would have been happy with the weathered stone as a bleak, windswept crag - but the careful placement of the vegetation puts it up a few notches to 11. I imagine this is not the quickest process, but its most definately one of the most detailed.
Looking forward to the fish.
-
Lovely stuff and very instructual for an experimental piece I'm currently working on.
I'm following this with interest and will be sure to try some techniques on my test peice.
Please do share your work too :)
A little handheld blowtorch can help with that(as long as they have risen to or near the surface.
Yes, I'm prepared for that! I have my little Creme Brulee torch ready ;)
Deeply impressive.
I would have been happy with the weathered stone as a bleak, windswept crag - but the careful placement of the vegetation puts it up a few notches to 11. I imagine this is not the quickest process, but its most definately one of the most detailed.
Looking forward to the fish.
The fish are ready for you! Yes, it's not quick, but to be honest it is not overly time consuming, use images as a reference so you have a guide from Mother Nature.
Funny you should say that Richard, King Arthur and I are using the same fish,great minds,and all that lol
Great build K.A. :) And watch out for bubbles ;)
So us yer fish then Blackwolf :) always interested to see other interpretations!
-
Hello again!
Fear not, the project wasn't discarded nor forgotten!! It was actually a very busy week of virtual meetings and project deadlines, so not much was done. That being said, the fishes, statue and tree were completed and fixed in to place! One good thing from all this mess is that due to Cities standing still, there's almost no air pollution and we've had 10 days of straight blue skies!!! So I took that opportunity to take some pictures outside :)
First up the fishes and statue:
(https://i.ibb.co/x156wwg/FISH2.png)
(https://i.ibb.co/tz7FBY1/FISH1.png)
(https://i.ibb.co/LRjCWQd/FISH3.png)
(https://i.ibb.co/T0RvXf6/FISH4.png)
The fishes are from Mantis Miniatures, based out of Poland and the Statue is part of a series of Roman Statues by Thomarillion based out of Germany, links here:
https://www.mantisminiatures.pl/EN/14,0,Animals.html
https://www.thomarillion.de/?page=artikel_detail&id=1042&origin=%3Fpage%3Dsearch%26q%3DSeven%26slide%3D0
Next up, the pictures taken outside:
(https://i.ibb.co/TKbp46n/1.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/MSsQNgh/2.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/VMY2K1C/3.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/X8VhRch/4.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/pP3ZjnW/5.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/LQw1C4K/6.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/p10BYwF/7.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/wc32wzj/8.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/kKLvvym/9.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/8694d8N/10.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/rbcqCLb/11.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/ZH9rkrB/12.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/s3JkyPN/13.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/T1SbGZR/14.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/M8hjBDh/15.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/VYkTvKM/16.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/dfkDB0M/17.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/89wTDKS/18.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/3vTwvFt/19.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/0DDXjGv/20.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/RHR17s9/21.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/bvCfVyR/22.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/zGs8RXw/23.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/C99xXSL/24.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Dkyfqtd/25.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/6bX8HCG/26.jpg)
Last piece of the puzzle is the water! My son said to me "Dad, I can't wait for you to do the water, it's either gonna make it legit cool or F the whole thing up......." thanks Son lol
I revisited my Silicone technique as I wasn't happy with the first attempt. I made several thin lines of Mastic Silicone, but post drying, I realised that they were too thick, so I went back and again, laid out several thin lines onto film, then I placed a second film layer on top and rolled it flat, now I have a very thin sheet of Silicone which is perfect as the base layer for the Waterfall.
(https://i.ibb.co/T0nm9t2/WF1.png)
(https://i.ibb.co/QjMJh14/WF2.png)
(https://i.ibb.co/T1C2Pnc/WF3.png)
Lastly, here's the reference picture I will use as a guide for the Waterfall flowing down, note how the 'fall' itself is completely white. For the water in the pool itself, I don't think I'll go aquamarine/turquoise like the one in this picture as it'll hide all the details. perhaps I'll start with a thin murky layer and the build up some light blue/green layers and finish off with clear, let's see....
(https://i.ibb.co/QbKj3VP/WF4.png)
Wish me luck with the water, wouldn't want to F it up ;)
-
Amazing work.
jaw-dropping detail - so beautifully done.
-
just gorgeous :-* :-* :-*
-
Love it 8)
Reminds me very much of Victorian Romanticism (which is no bad thing).
Interesting way of doing the water, I hope you manage to not F it up lol
-
Absolutely fantastic. :-* :-* :-* Fingers crosssed on the water but I am sure you won't need it.
-
Amazing work.
jaw-dropping detail - so beautifully done.
Thank you kindly good Sir!
just gorgeous :-* :-* :-*
Vielen Dank!! I'm sure you'll agree that the Statue is a fantastic sculpt and worthy of many gaming tables ;)
Love it 8)
Reminds me very much of Victorian Romanticism (which is no bad thing).
Interesting way of doing the water, I hope you manage to not F it up lol
Funny you mention Victorian Romanticism.... my little daughter (7) whom is helping me with this project is really enjoying the background and content to an RPG called BLUE ROSE:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blue_Rose_(role-playing_game)
And the setting for that is within a 'Romantic' backdrop. The initial idea for this board was High Fantasy, so I think we've achieved the desired outcome.
Regarding the silicone, it'll only be used to bridge the gap from the stream at the top, falling into the pool below. Gravity will not be kind to my project if I just poured the resin as it would either just trickle down the rock face and look like a bunch of damp rocks or sit at the top, so the Silicone is to be used as a foundation piece that'll be glued to the top portion and then again where the water would be meeting the rocks below. I'll use some clear gel and polyfiber to simulate the cascading white water, hence why I need the transparent silicone as a base to attach the polyfibre too.
Let's see how it all turns out!
-
Alright, whilst I'm experimenting with either using Silicone, Vallejo Water Effects or Liqutex Gloss Gel to represent the waterfall, I made a start on the second board!
(https://i.ibb.co/ZKpFgwS/1.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/WVnQSqV/2.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/4RnsNWG/3.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/NZcNRnj/4.jpg)
First thing was lining it up and sketching onto the surface very roughly where the features will go, such as the continuation of the slope and edge of the forest.
Next, it was time for the application of the compound, the base structure for the beginning of the slope and adding some rocks:
(https://i.ibb.co/k8v3GRr/5.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/fvBWRLk/6.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/y8Cx0nM/7.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/mFMgfQf/8.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/YR2LDcz/9.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Khs0FNG/10.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/q5bh1Wf/11.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/300qfyw/12.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/vwLNC19/13.jpg)
Then it was painted with watered down brown acrylic, the rocks were also painted using the same technique as the previous board and given some addition attention with pastels:
(https://i.ibb.co/GJDhFhy/14.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/gRfw6X6/15.jpg)
I'm not entirely happy with the rocks, so I'll go back and add some more colours for greater depth and variance. Next step will be to apply the ground layer of flocking to represent earth/mud ahead of building up the grass layers.
-
Cracking work King Arthur!
Unfortunately the fish I used are now under resin. I used the Northern Pike,in a suitable ambush position, and the two trout feeding upstream ie tails downstream. Of course like real fish they can barely be seen,all that counter shading, however if you know what you're looking for :)
-
Vallejo water effect is no good for making deep-ish water. It works for making rippled water texture as it has some viscosity. Unfortunately it dries with a satin sheen not gloss-clear.
-
Vallejo water effect is no good for making deep-ish water. It works for making rippled water texture as it has some viscosity. Unfortunately it dries with a satin sheen not gloss-clear.
Yes, Vallejo Water is quite bad actually, I have used it in on some 28mm bases in order to simulate some small puddles and it shrinks and basically vanishes over a short period of time. I wasn't planning on using it for the pool, I was experimenting with the 3 mediums I mentioned to see which outcome I liked best for the 'fall' and the Liquitex Gloss Gel is the winner over Vallejo Water and the mastic Silicone. Pictures inbound soon.
-
You're a landscape artist! :-*
-
love this project - looks great
-
You're a landscape artist! :-*
You're too kind! Thank you :)
love this project - looks great
Very happy to hear that you like it!! Scroll down for more :D
-
Back with an update :)
I'll start by re-uploading the images from a previous post as they were too small to see clearly:
I started wotk on the second half of the board:
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/01963.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/02070.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/03127.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/004.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/05272.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/07332.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/08739.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/09763.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/10373.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/11089.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/12575.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/13579.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/14633.jpg)
(https://img.techpowerup.org/200425/15360.jpg)
The first level of prep has been completed by way of building the base blocks for the continuation of the slope then the application of the Geek Gaming compound all over the board to act as the base surface ahead of the painting and flocking.
The next set of pictures I'll upload will show the flocking and the work on the slope area.
-
Hello all!
Progress on the second board half, some flocking has been done, I've laid the foundations for the grass area and where the forest edge will be, whilst adding in some plant life to the slope:
(https://iili.io/JRJSEl.jpg)
(https://iili.io/JRJsTu.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRJsTu)
(https://iili.io/JRJQQj.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRJQQj)
(https://iili.io/JRJtCx.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRJtCx)
(https://iili.io/JRJDEQ.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRJDEQ)
(https://iili.io/JRJb4V.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRJb4V)
Next up are pictures of some of the materials I've been using on the build:
(https://iili.io/JRd9v1.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRd9v1)
(https://iili.io/JRdHyF.md.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdHyF)
(https://iili.io/JRddTg.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRddTg)
(https://iili.io/JRdKCv.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdKCv)
(https://iili.io/JRdfGR.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdfGR)
(https://iili.io/JRdq4p.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdq4p)
(https://iili.io/JRdC3N.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdC3N)
(https://iili.io/JRdnaI.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdnaI)
As you can see, there's a mixture of manufactured pieces but also lots of natural components, dried flowers are amazing for either representing small plants and foliage or for grinding down to use as ground cover or leaves on trees and bushes. I'm going to use some scenery pieces from a Dutch company called 'Martin Welberg' which you see pictured above, the product is of high quality and well detailed and I believe it will add some depth and 'realism' to the build, more to follow on that with the next round of pictures.
The last pictures are showing what I done with White, Rose and Fuchsia Icelandic Moss, all blended together and ready to be used as leaves on a Cherry Blossom type tree in the forest!
(https://iili.io/JRdovt.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdovt)
(https://iili.io/JRdIun.jpg) (https://freeimage.host/i/JRdIun)
I hope you liked that latest update and stay tuned for more :)
-
Great progress and I like the different materials that are being used 8)
-
You are a true artist, sir! Amazing job! :-*
-
Great progress and I like the different materials that are being used 8)
Agreed. An incredible and eclectic selection of scenic ingredients and condiments :)
-
Great progress and I like the different materials that are being used 8)
Thank you Sir!
You are a true artist, sir! Amazing job! :-*
You are most kind :D
The secret is to have as much fun as possible!
Agreed. An incredible and eclectic selection of scenic ingredients and condiments :)
Indeed, I love mixing all the different elements, it gives the piece lots of depth and visual interest! I just blended a dried out eucalyptus plant for some green tree leaves this morning, I can tell you, it's going be the best smelling gaming table I've played on lol
-
LOVELY! Your creations are truly inspiring. VERY WELL DONE!
-
LOVELY! Your creations are truly inspiring. VERY WELL DONE!
Thank you! I'm really happy to read you find this project inspiring, it's always good to 'give' back, as I myself have been inspired by so many on this forum over the years :)
-
The level of detail is out of this world. With the fish in the pond. I feel myself holding my breath a bit until I know if the water effects will work out.
-
Good morning!
Back with an update :D
(https://iili.io/J52pwX.jpg)
The first two points I noticed were that board one (with the pool) is darker than board two, so I'll go back and add some lighter flocking. Second point, which you'll see in the pictures that follow, is that I will trim away some of the compound from board two so the boards close together as there's a gap where the slopes meet:
(https://iili.io/J53CN9.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53nte.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53zMb.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53IPj.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53uKx.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53YAP.jpg)
Here you can see the gap between the join, there's some build up of compound that is preventing the rock from sliding across properly. I will also add more bushes to the top of the rocks to cover the join and make it look like one piece once it's placed side by side.
(https://iili.io/J537HB.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53aN1.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53cDF.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J531Va.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53EiJ.jpg)
(https://iili.io/J53jRI.jpg)
From the above you can see I have started work on the area that will sit between the slope and the forests edge, I have used a mixture of materials that include flowers and foliage from Mini Natur, weeds and bushes from Martin Wellberg and a smattering of dried flowers, overall I am very pleased with the outcome ;)
Last but by no means least, the water..... the first few layers of resin were mixed with a drop of light blue and poured in. For the next round of resin pour I will mix in some Jade Green as I feel that all the bushes and plants will give off a 'jungle water' look and feel.
(https://iili.io/J53wNt.jpg)
As usual, stayed tuned for more :D
-
Amazing job with an acute eye for detail! :-*
Following with great interest and enjoyment! Cheers!
-
Lovely :)
-
blimey its getting even better!
-
Wonderful. Just love all the various materials used to make this.
-
The level of realism you're achieving is incredible. All the different layers of plants, roots, dry leaves and flowers make the whole thing come alive. A real joy to watch you construct it.
-
Amazing job with an acute eye for detail! :-*
Following with great interest and enjoyment! Cheers!
+1
-
Thanks for all the comments Gents, much appreciated!!!
A small update for now, the water effects for the 'fall':
(https://iili.io/JYmcue.jpg)
(https://iili.io/JYmEnj.jpg)
(https://iili.io/JYmGMx.jpg)
(https://iili.io/JYmWFV.jpg)
To achieve the effect of very thin water cascading down I needed something very thin and transparent, so I used Liquitex Gloss Gel, painted it onto plastiglass and once it had dried I could peel it off and now I have very thin strips of clear 'paint' which act as the base for the water. To get the shape desired, I will use strips from a clear plastic cup, these are great as they keep their vacum molded tensions, so once attached to the Gloss Gel I can bend the water down the rocks and it will keep its shape.
More to follow soon.
-
"To achieve the effect of very thin water cascading down I needed something very thin and transparent, so I used Liquitex Gloss Gel, painted it onto plastiglass and once it had dried I could peel it off and now I have very thin strips of clear 'paint' which act as the base for the water. To get the shape desired, I will use strips from a clear plastic cup, these are great as they keep their vacum molded tensions, so once attached to the Gloss Gel I can bend the water down the rocks and it will keep its shape".
Perfect and inspiring idea!!! Cheers!
-
Lovely work :-*
I've done a similar thing for water effects; painting the clear gel onto cling wrap and peeling off. There is trout I did to for BSC 3 with the same effect,however photobucket has probably buggered that.
-
That’s very clever. Looking forward to seeing how that turns out :)
-
Hello!!
Sorry for the delay with updating this project, a combination of a busy work schedule followed by a refit of my hobby area then a family holiday meant that I forgot to update on a regular basis! Work has continued and I also had a re-look and re-think about certain aspects of the board, namely the flocking, I really don't like the flock as a ground cover, I wanted something more realistic, so I invested in a Micro Static Grass Applicator, more variations of weeds, tufts and foliage and set out to make it look like 'grass'......
Here's some pics of the progress:
For the final layers of resin, I will mix in some Jade Green to give the water some colour and to reflect all the greenery around it. Here's a layer with one drop of Jade mixed in.
(https://i.ibb.co/XFjf2Cz/01.jpg) (https://ibb.co/2cW0nkj)
(https://i.ibb.co/ky1pZ1t/02.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7z4Hh4q)
Here's a look at how the static grass and foliage is starting to turn out:
(https://i.ibb.co/gTq9BkC/03.jpg) (https://ibb.co/k8bBWNF)
(https://i.ibb.co/7nsqPvv/04.jpg) (https://ibb.co/By09bLL)
(https://i.ibb.co/k1h2nQb/06.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0tfyNh4)
(https://i.ibb.co/r2DqmLf/07.jpg) (https://ibb.co/tpVn4NP)
I also received my order of Sage Brush to use as the base for the trees which will adorn the forested area to the left of the second board, the Sage will be the foundation, whilst sea foam will act as the smaller branches for the leaves to sit upon.
(https://i.ibb.co/1qPz4Kt/10.jpg) (https://ibb.co/zRB6tbT)
(https://i.ibb.co/MGKDj8q/08.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZYv6wHy)
(https://i.ibb.co/D7qnVf7/09.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jLpF6kL)
(https://i.ibb.co/vBpDVKf/11.jpg) (https://ibb.co/4fzJK5C)
(https://i.ibb.co/NNq6pGt/12.jpg) (https://ibb.co/C9y5vSm)
The Sage Brush will be coated in Pod Podge to both seal/protect it and to stop wood worms from turning my hard work in to a lunch buffet!!! Each tree will be pinned so I can take them out post gaming for storage and so I can move them around for some variety between games. The model is for scale, from Dark Sword and measures 32mm head to toe.
The next stage will be to attach the sea foam, colour it using an Air Brush to blend it all in and then start attaching the leaves. This first tree will be inspired by Japanese Blossom, so expect lots of pink!!
-
Your ground cover looks great- a nice mix of static grass 'soil and leaves.
-
Brilliant terrain, love the water effects. I haven't yet dared to try doing water effects, maybe I'll try to imitate your methods. Inspiring!
-
As Codsticker said, your ground cover is excellent - it’s the variety that makes it so realistic.
:)
-
Glad to see you're carrying on with it 8)
-
The groundcover mix looks very realistic. Static grass applicator hmm? Maybe one for my Christmas list! ;)
-
The groundcover mix looks very realistic. Static grass applicator hmm? Maybe one for my Christmas list! ;)
Hi Captain!
I've been using the following on this project:
https://peco-uk.com/products/pro-grass-precision-micro-applicator?_pos=2&_sid=9903cfc8c&_ss=r
I really like the control you have with this smaller version, it allows for much more variety, with a larger applicator you run the risk of the dreaded 'Green Carpet' which is certainly not what I had in mind!!
As Codsticker said, your ground cover is excellent - it’s the variety that makes it so realistic.
:)
Thank you! This was exactly what I was aiming for! With the smaller applicator I could really zone in on smaller areas and mix up the shades and size of the grass, for example on this board I have used both 2mm and 4mm and 4 different shades to break it up, coupled with the addition of flowers, soil patches, debris, weeds etc has given it its current look.
-
Thanks to everyone whom commented, your praise is great inspiration!
A big update coming your way now, first will be highlighting the Static Grass on the second board as complete, followed by the completion of the first tree!!!
Up first though is the picture of the final pour of resin mixed with Jade Green:
(https://i.ibb.co/r2s8h0v/01.jpg) (https://ibb.co/v4YyWqD)
I have no idea why, but after this final layer dried, a few air pockets appeared..... bearing in mind I done 7 thin pours, I do not know how air pockets suddenly formed.... but fear not, I see an opportunity to add more details!!! Some Lilypads will be coming your way soon to cover the air pockets!
Now that the resin pouring is complete, I will soon be adding some plants and small trees around the pools edge. More on that soon,
(https://i.ibb.co/sJf8bbP/02.jpg) (https://ibb.co/h163LLM)
I had some difficulties with the top of the waterfall, the main culprit being that the riverbed wasn't straight at all and all the resin wanted to fall to the left hand side..... you can see this in the picture as the build up is clear. My 7 year old daughter, whom is 'Art Director' for the project wanted the water to reflect a summer sky and asked that we do it bright blue, so I obliged ;) At a later stage I will add the 'fall'. I want to complete all the Static Grass first so I can do a clean up before finishing of the water.
Next up, you can see a comparison between the Static Grass board and the first board which had just the flocking, you can clearly see the level of difference and the reason for my decision to go ahead with the Static Grass.
(https://i.ibb.co/2thGZLn/02b.jpg) (https://ibb.co/4Tth1Dm)
The following will show you the completion of the Static Grass, Soil, Foliage etc:
(https://i.ibb.co/1LjmdPV/03.jpg) (https://ibb.co/0cvGF6N)
(https://i.ibb.co/3zH7sWf/04.jpg) (https://ibb.co/jRFT5GV)
(https://i.ibb.co/MfrjkqZ/05.jpg) (https://ibb.co/FX2f4Gm)
(https://i.ibb.co/QQKGdBZ/06.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RbDWyn1)
(https://i.ibb.co/NYjHrSb/07.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9YTChtS)
(https://i.ibb.co/vDcFMF0/08.jpg) (https://ibb.co/t3HG1GV)
(https://i.ibb.co/tz5PqR4/09.jpg) (https://ibb.co/C6FsbLz)
(https://i.ibb.co/THMpn4Z/10.jpg) (https://ibb.co/K9xRQ2Y)
(https://i.ibb.co/TryBsR1/11.jpg) (https://ibb.co/CWL5fv6)
(https://i.ibb.co/VwqyBnW/14.jpg) (https://ibb.co/2Zk2KV7)
(https://i.ibb.co/m0Wnzvp/15.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JqJYkxZ)
(https://i.ibb.co/s1BpBKQ/16.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gWnbnSw)
I must say it was a most enjoyable process, very relaxing!
The reason I've kept to 2mm and 4mm Static Grass is that gaming is repetitive and the continued moving and placing of models would most likely flatten taller grass whilst making it difficult to stand the models properly. I wanted both a realistic looking board that was practical. I gave the entire area several coats of watered down PVA to seal it and harden it to survive the rigors of the battles to come ;)
Next up, a very big and very pink tree :D
-
So, as promised, here's the first tree, inspired by Japanese Blossom. The first part of the process was to clean up the Sage Brush and coat it with Pod Podge. Once that was dry I attached sea foam to act as the smaller twigs and branches:
(https://i.ibb.co/pfd6Kgj/01.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ByBH6m2)
(https://i.ibb.co/S5rfWMs/02.jpg) (https://ibb.co/8NcYTfK)
(https://i.ibb.co/9Np9KJy/03.jpg) (https://ibb.co/nbwsdTQ)
(https://i.ibb.co/4Zsmp9p/04.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fY81HBH)
(https://i.ibb.co/3N477z6/05.jpg) (https://ibb.co/d2jrrgC)
(https://i.ibb.co/31vs8ys/06.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7vQzTJz)
(https://i.ibb.co/5Wbt7VC/08.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Y7HYrGJ)
In the above pictures you can see the 'frame' of the tree completed. As the Seas Foam is a different colour from the Sage Brush, I mixed a greyish brown and used an air brush to cover all the areas where the two materials joined to give it a more natural look, I also used a light pink to dust the tops of the Seam Foam in case of any gaps in between the leaves.
(https://i.ibb.co/4gfj0fB/01.jpg) (https://ibb.co/3Ys0Pst)
(https://i.ibb.co/0qNp7fK/02.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Q9B7g6k)
(https://i.ibb.co/fdH0jzy/03.jpg) (https://ibb.co/TMth9x7)
(https://i.ibb.co/Z2JWkr7/04.jpg) (https://ibb.co/RjSzVKd)
(https://i.ibb.co/Yt7zMjp/05.jpg) (https://ibb.co/brgSZdz)
The final stage was to spray small areas of the Sea Foam with 'Spray Mount' and then sprinkle on the leaves. I used a darker shade for the underside and then a lighter shade for the parts which would be in direct sunlight, I also mixed in some white to give it more variety. The models are also to show the scale of the tree.
(https://i.ibb.co/ZKnWhj9/01.jpg) (https://ibb.co/92FsqDP)
(https://i.ibb.co/ZHYswLg/02.jpg) (https://ibb.co/7gRcTYp)
(https://i.ibb.co/NVc3NGN/03.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Wxm3zRz)
(https://i.ibb.co/WzkdVgG/04.jpg) (https://ibb.co/X57dYSj)
(https://i.ibb.co/z2Dk6V1/05.jpg) (https://ibb.co/94SMZHJ)
(https://i.ibb.co/kSzcdhn/06.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5RCc75D)
(https://i.ibb.co/rpVJK8v/07.jpg) (https://ibb.co/gWxCbq6)
(https://i.ibb.co/Ct3Zb3w/08.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ZJpPBpf)
To finish off the tree I applied two coats (24 hours dry time in between) of a Mod Podge, Water and Matt Medium mix, this gets rid of the tackiness from the Spray Mount whilst giving the tree a hard but flexible protective coat. Excluding the drying times for the glues and protective coats, the tree took circa 2 hours to complete.
More to follow soon!
-
Flabber me Gasted.
The attention to detail, and the quality of your work as always is superb
Looking at those boards reminded me of how much weeding in the garden I need to do tomorrow..and cut the grass to.
-
Beautiful :-*
(I was going to say ‘peachy’, but then it isn’t quite ;))
Great attention to detail. And on a foam board base, you can’t beat a spiked-in tree for flexibility, stability and aesthetic appeal.
-
Hello fellow Adventurers!!
Fear not! A lack of an update hasn't meant the untimely end of the project! Far from it! I have been diligently working away in my hobby room and am happy to bring you the next update!
I completed the static grass and foliage cover of both boards now and am am extremely happy with the outcome! To recap, I used a mixture of colours for variation in 2mm and 4mm and then applied a liquid sealant to make the grass sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of gaming. Once done I took an overall look and decided that I wasn't happy with two aspects of the board, one being the foliage I had originally used on the hills sides and the foliage around the ponds edge, that in particular didn't look organic enough in both looks and placement, so I tore it out and went back with a mixture of colours and textures using various weeds, bushes, grass etc. Here's the results:
(https://i.ibb.co/ZfM1P3y/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Kq90J9k/03.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/f0bDSvw/04.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/7VH2fWR/02.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/zZXSTtb/05.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/hy0W6sg/06.jpg)
The next set of pictures shows the rework I done to the hillsides, the product I had in there before was a natural product, it looked great when first applied but even after I sealed it, it turned yellow and brittle, so I tore it all out and begun afresh, whilst adding in some weeds to the rocks. I also removed the white leafed tree that sat above the pond as I was not happy with how it looked, especially in comparison to the Pink Blossom, so that too was dully cut out and replaced with a nice looking bush....
(https://i.ibb.co/r510JC4/09.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/RzYFZZP/10.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/t2CWrMS/08.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/QHtS8FH/07.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/tQGbJX9/13.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/wRNnmcb/11.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/d259PY2/12.jpg)
Phew, a fun workload I can tell you! So now that the ground work was all finished, I set to building the second tree, same approach as the first one, using a Sagebrush as the base, then building out in small sections, the skeleton of the canopy in Seafoam. Once the glue had set, I used my airbrush to spray all the seafoam in a military field uniform green to tie it all together and help with shading once the leaves have been applied. For this project and other scenery builds I use a 'Makeup' airbrush, the one I have is made by Goacheer and is perfect for small batches of paint cover. I wouldn't recommend Makeup Airbrushes for working on models etc as the PSI is too low, but I have found thus far, on my scenery pieces, it is a valuable tool.
(https://i.ibb.co/5YjKJnF/14.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/MZ1V2nF/15.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/zGxKFyp/16.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/6FMKZwJ/17.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/KxL7KVX/18.jpg)
Simultaneously to the tree, I started on the woodland floor where this one will live. I want to give the illusion that this is a clearing in the midst of a vast wooded area and as such, 'off screen' there would be thousands of trees clustered around the playing area; so I want the ground cover to look like it's in shade, not much light getting through, so all the grass, weeds, bushes etc would be darker than the grass and foliage in the clearing. Once again I used the airbrush to cover the area in a 'US Drab Olive' to give it a darker tone.
(https://i.ibb.co/XjGWdLg/20.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/DCtKHBq/19.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/rw4BY4B/21.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/nkDHg0v/22.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/GHCmqF1/23.jpg)
And that's it! Quite a big update for you to digest but certainly a large amount of progress made. Stay tuned for more soon.
Cheers!
-
Fabulous :-*
Although you’re going to have more fun trying to stand your figures up on some areas of that! But it is a beautiful work of the terrain modeller’s art. Kudos.
Are those Silflor / MiniNatur flower tufts? They look like it. I’ve been unable to find a reliable UK supplier, since the couple I used to use appear to have stopped stocking the brand. I’ve tried the Gamers Grass flower tufts and they’re a bit industrial by comparison.
-
Excellent update 8)
-
Terrain building of a higher order. More like a diorama. Thanks for the step by step.
-
Admiring your dreamland and your passion and patience!
Thanks for sharing!
-
Thank you for your comments Gentlemen, mots kind of you and most appreciated :)
@Richard - the small tufts and the loose flowers are by MiniNatur, the larger clumps of weeds, bushes, wild grass with yellow flowers, those are from Martin Welberg Scenics. As I'm in Belgium, I order my 'stuff' from retailers in Holland, I know that these chaps stock MiniNatur in the UK:
https://www.newmodellersshop.co.uk/mininatur.htm
-
What a work of art!
-
Greetings once again fellow Adventurers!
Back again with an update! This time, it's all about tree's :D
With the completion of the hillsides, pond foliage and the grass areas it's time to move on and head towards completing the edge of the woodland. In total I will make 6 tree's. My daughter wanted a Lavender coloured tree next, so I set to work on the order from High Command ;)
(https://i.ibb.co/1ZBwYYC/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/bHP2cBR/02.jpg)
Alongside the Lavender Tree, I also completed a small classical Green leafed tree:
(https://i.ibb.co/cXp1RFD/03.jpg)
One point I discovered with both the finished Pink and Green tree's is that the singular Pin isn't enough to support to the weight, once the tree's were placed in to the ground, they tilted to one side, so I rectified this by adding more pins to the trunk:
(https://i.ibb.co/sHDgkq9/04.jpg)
Simply attaching metal pins to the trunks with glue wasn't enough, for two reasons, one being that the bond wouldn't be strong enough for the repeat use of insertion and extraction and secondly it would look awful having the bare metal on show! So, I rolled out some thin strips of air dry clay and sculpted some bark over the top, once dry I painted to match the trunk:
(https://i.ibb.co/p2N4p73/06.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/TkSxmSx/07.jpg)
Here you can see the tree standing straight, followed by close ups to show how it all blends in with the undergrowth:
(https://i.ibb.co/bW9pp1r/05.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/cC7xKYS/08.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/x5t7r19/09.jpg)
Now moving onto the Lavender Tree, here's the leaf material used, once again I sprayed the tree to assist with shadows and definition before sprinkling on the leaf coverage:
(https://i.ibb.co/sm4r8Pg/10.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/9tKzcBB/11.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/2ZqqXRj/12.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/vq2D5yX/14.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/6Z4PNTc/15.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/P19f7Bg/16.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/d6K10bg/17.jpg)
With the Lavender Tree completed, I have started work on the next one, this time less full and rounded in shape.
(https://i.ibb.co/Gtt5xf8/18.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/TMWH0f8/19.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/pKxkWn9/20.jpg)
OK, that's it for now people, I hope you like this mini update about trees and as always stayed tuned for more coming soon :D
-
Those trees are brilliant, I like your multi-pin solution, not having a similar board all my trees end up on individual bases, but the spiking them into the ground does look better.
-
Superb work...very cool.
-
Fabulous! :-* :-* :-*
-
I agree with Voltan- the trio of spikes looks like it will work great.
-
Hello once again Adventurers!
Back with another update! 24 pictures for your viewing pleasure :D
In the previous update you saw the work being done on the trees for the woodland area, this update will be focussing on the ground cover of the woods and even a sneak peak teaser of the waterfall....
First up will be a set of pictures that shows the ground cover for the woodlands in their 'normal' colours, by that I mean, how they look straight out of packaging:
(https://i.ibb.co/H4GHs77/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/0YWg79n/02.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/dLTxBrq/03.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/YcRyvLW/04.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/2Y4WFb0/05.jpg)
I've used a mixture of grass, weeds, ferns and bushes to give it a semi overgrown look. The ferns placement also acts as a visual guide for tree placement. I also added in a small 'pathway', a dirt track which has been created by someone or something walking from the woods to the pool frequently......
After all that was dried and in place, I used various Greens, Browns and Olives and went over the foliage with the airbrush to give it a more uniformed look to simulate it being in shade:
(https://i.ibb.co/D71q77J/07.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/WpPhC3d/08.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Wxrk6Rw/09.jpg)
The next batch of pictures shows how the final arrangement of tree's will look in the woodlands edge. There's 6 trees in total, 5 in the woodland area and one on the board with the pool.
(https://i.ibb.co/hyhb4Ry/10.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/VJ0Dvw4/11.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/bBc8FqY/12.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/nzxqt2x/14.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/z837sst/15.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/LRnw4CC/16.jpg)
After I was happy with the arrangement of tree's, I finished off the remaining two by adding Red Oak leaves to one and then a mixture of Juniper and Olive coloured leaves to the last. Alongside the tree work, I also painted the boards edges in Black, firstly though I gave them a base coat of Gesso, this is great as it's a very smooth but chalky paint that both sticks well to the polystyrene whilst giving the acrylic paint something to grip in return. Water based paints and shiny polystyrene don't mix well......
(https://i.ibb.co/bgVtGzw/17.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/pXLtHfG/18.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/dgDZwRn/19.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Cs2YrnX/20.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/N1frzSx/21.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/TcDsFy3/22.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/QMZCytY/23.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/MNfkDZc/24.jpg)
With that, the tree's and the woodlands edge are now completed :). The final part and in my opinion, the part that will make or break the entire look, is that of the waterfall. In the following two pictures you can see a sneak peak of it.....
(https://i.ibb.co/QMXbWcH/26.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/f2rTDKy/27.jpg)
Well, that's it for now ;)
The next update will be showing the trials and errors for making the waterfall coupled with how it looks cascading down in to the pool!!
As always, stay tuned for more :D
-
Stunning 8)
-
Honestly, it’s a triumph :-*
The airbrushing really helps unify everything too. Nice.
-
It is really a joy to follow this thread! Cheers!
-
You have crated an idyllic scene, BEAUTIFULLY crafted & WONDERFULLY imaginative. VERY WELL DONE!
-
Hello Adventurers!
A small update before the waterfall....
I arranged some miniatures on the board to show a sense of scale and also how they balance on the static grass and other foliage:
(https://i.ibb.co/DCkmrMV/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/pZ6gR8p/03.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/RTYLShZ/04.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/5sCGtNf/05.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/Sv84ZKC/06.jpg)
Next update will be coming soon......
-
lol
In this idyllic and bucolic setting, I was expecting gorgeous elves, dryads, centaurs and fantasy knights.
Instead, zombies and zombie hunters lol
(Surely your miniatures will need beautiful bases that blend in seamlessly with your beautiful gaming board? The big black slottas are going to jar somewhat? ;))
-
I'm intrigued to see where that game is going...once the minis have had an equally spiffing paint job.
-
lol
In this idyllic and bucolic setting, I was expecting gorgeous elves, dryads, centaurs and fantasy knights.
Instead, zombies and zombie hunters lol
(Surely your miniatures will need beautiful bases that blend in seamlessly with your beautiful gaming board? The big black slottas are going to jar somewhat? ;))
lol
Don't worry Richard, those were grabbed from the nearby shelf just to show scale, the Zombies and Hunters belong to another project :)
This board will indeed be used for Fantasy miniatures.
-
I'm intrigued to see where that game is going...once the minis have had an equally spiffing paint job.
Sorry to mislead my friend! Just for scale purposes! Although after placing the models, the contrast between an idyllic setting and a ravenous bunch of Zombies is somewhat 'appealing' in gaming terms.
Perhaps I can appease Richard by having Gorgeous Elves vs the Undead ;)
-
Sorry to mislead my friend! Just for scale purposes! Although after placing the models, the contrast between an idyllic setting and a ravenous bunch of Zombies is somewhat 'appealing' in gaming terms.
Perhaps I can appease Richard by having Gorgeous Elves vs the Undead ;)
Ahh you fiend for misleading me lol Well I guess some elves will have to do 8)
-
I think the zombies work well lol
-
I think the zombies work well lol
Indeed, the very thought of a mass of Zombies defiling this picturesque setting works in a weird and wonderful way! The contrast is what makes it work I'd say!!
-
Indeed...I could see an angry group of gardeners clashing with them...."GET OFF MY BLOODY LAWN!" lol
-
...I could see an angry group of gardeners clashing with them...."GET OFF MY BLOODY LAWN!" lol
...and I can hear the zombies answering him collectively "BRAINZZZZZZ....!"
-
Hello once more!
Well the time has come!!! Waterfall time ;D
The first set of pictures will show how I set about building the foundation and ensuring that the overall look was as realistic as I could achieve!
The first part of the process was to paint in very thin strips, some Liquitex High Gloss Gel onto a piece of plasticard. The Gel dries transparent and doesn't stick to the plasticard, so once dried, I just peeled it off. It can be cut to size/shape. To achieve a 'natural' look bend in the water as it cascaded down, I cut thin strips from an empty, circular, container, as the plastic is vacuum moulded it retains it's shape after cutting, this was attached to the Gloss Gel, firstly by pressing it in and the by using more Gloss Gel to act as an adhesive.
I also lightly dry brushed the Gloss Gel with White acrylic before peeling it off, this helped to give it that look of fast moving, thin water you get with waterfalls.
(https://i.ibb.co/2j7N0kk/IMG-9381.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/H2MdwnP/02.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/SwyZyzw/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/kXZkgB2/03.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/LgTqhpz/IMG-9378.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/183hJv1/IMG-9377.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/CMV06Kx/04.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/T1mjN73/IMG-9384.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/pvBVhPb/05.jpg)
That was the first stage, ensuring that the water bent then hit the rocks midway down, before falling into the pool below! A great point to this Gloss Gel is that it blends into itself, for example, although it's dry, I used more Gel to attach the waterfall to the river up top and once the Gel had dried you couldn't see a single join.
More to follow shortly.
-
That's looking great so far. It's got that ethereal quality that waterfalls have 8)
-
That's looking great so far. It's got that ethereal quality that waterfalls have 8)
Most kind of you James! There were several trials and errors at first, either the Gel I laid down was too thick, then one attempt I bodged the white, put too much on and lost that ethereal look you referenced, I used of course, real waterfalls for reference as at first I was apprehensive in using white paint, but that's the look, you have to find that balance of having the water look white but still ethereal.... took some time before I was happy to take the 'plunge' and start sticking the Gel strips down, which was the point of no return :D
-
The fun doesn't stop with the last post, oh no! Here's the next stage in the Waterfall process!!!
Once the initial shape was built from several Gel strips, I begun the initial water rippling works, blending the Gel strips into the Resin water and surrounding scenery and plugging any unwanted gaps. At first I thinned the Gel with some water as I was a tad frightened of having the ripples look to aggressive, but once this had dried it looked to tame.... so in subsequent Gel layers I used it undiluted.
(https://i.ibb.co/H4bfyWd/IMG-9398.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/BZZ8Hhk/02.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/wdkzwJp/IMG-9400.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/BT1PJjT/IMG-9418.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/89jB8Pc/IMG-9419.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/B3nH65t/IMG-9428.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/qYSNKHK/IMG-9429.jpg)
You can see in the few pics, I added a few more small strips of Gel to plug some gaps and started to build up the layers where the Waterfall meets the pool.
-
Part 3!
Here you can see the build up of layers using more Gloss Gel. I dunked the brush into the Gel and in vertical motion dabbed down onto the resin, you can then push the Gel around to make splashes up against the rocks etc.
(https://i.ibb.co/ftcftmM/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/87WxNnZ/02.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/4JtDmwZ/03.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/9tkCp26/04.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/vwpxyRk/05.jpg)
Two more step updates to come!
-
Part four of the Waterfall process will mainly focus on where the two bodies of water meet and create the white frothy mound that you find at the bases of falls. I also added small amounts of white polyfibre, this is the stuffing you can find inside toys or pillows for example. I used a pair of tweezers to gradually build up layers of the fibres to represent the mist that occurs when water collides with water. On the river surface I dry brushed some of the raised water areas in white, again to represent movement.
(https://i.ibb.co/M6Jpr7v/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/GPgW7HY/02.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/8PfgzbQ/03.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/K76kNPt/04.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/SVz6d8p/05.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/X8vDybN/IMG-9526.jpg)
You can see from the last picture how well the Gel all blends together and I'm really happy with how it can be manipulated to simulate moving water.
Stay tuned for Part 5.....
-
Superb 8)
-
Stunning :-*
-
:o
Fantastic fantasy :-*
Top notch
Glen
-
Excellent :-* :-* :-*
-
Premium quality! :-*
-
beautiful
-
Thank you for all your comments! Appreciated as always :)
Part 5 of the Waterfall and it's completion!
The last part of the process was to add some movement to the pool as I didn't want it to look flat or like sheet glass. I used the Liquitex High Gloss Gel again and applied it with a brush and to get a bit of a mix in the ripples, I used both the brush and the back of a plastic spoon to move the Gel about. Once I was happy with how that looked, I then took a hairdryer, cold air setting, and on full power used the air to push out the ripples. Alongside the rippling work, I also added a bit more Gel to the waterfall base and tidied up some gaps in fall itself.
(https://i.ibb.co/b7hdbRG/002.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/syM361z/IMG-9576.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/ZHJPVqy/003.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/swMkmvc/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/YNkDnMD/001.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/4msB32t/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/PMCrRP8/001.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/qJ7cfMN/01.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/y4xm7BF/IMG-9586.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/xh5kCxn/IMG-9587.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/x6bw20L/IMG-9588.jpg)
(https://i.ibb.co/tpz5nVT/001.jpg)
It was a huge relief to have finished the waterfall part and having it look how I imagined it!
Well, that's it folks, the table is completed!!!!
Next steps to round off the project before I can officially close it will be to print off some background pictures and then use a 'proper' camera to take some some pictures of the completed set up as a unit.
For now though, I hope you've enjoyed the journey so far and thank you for staying tuned :D
-
Most excellent 8)
-
beautiful work.
the froth / spray at the foot of the waterfall is so realistic I'd have assumed you'd photo-shopped it in! :-*
-
Top notch work all around. Well done.
-
Waiting for some mild weather and a blue sky here in Antwerp so I can use my Digital SLR to take some cleaner pictures. I'm also on the look out for some backdrops too to complete the scene.
I'm contemplating selling the boards, so if anyone is interested, please let me know?
Cheers.
-
I'm contemplating selling the boards, so if anyone is interested, please let me know?
Nooooooooooooooo! After all that work :o
A thing of true beauty. Terrain modelling and craftmanship of the highest order :-*
-
Just read through this thread, absolutely fantastic project and beautiful table. Looking forward to the final pictures of it in all its glory.
-
I only just read this thread... jaw dropping, glorious work!
-
Simply magic!
-
Looks fantastic!
-
Hello once again fellow Hobbyists!!!
It took a while, I apologise but I finally invested in a Wide Angle Lens and a backdrop Frame and paper to assist with taking pictures of larger projects!!!
So to round off this modelling session, please find below some detailed shots of the two boards in all their glory!!!
(https://i.ibb.co/Bcd7mzM/DSC-1236.jpg) (https://ibb.co/YPYK6Rs)
(https://i.ibb.co/ZWLzB88/DSC-1238.jpg) (https://ibb.co/4PmR8TT)
(https://i.ibb.co/D1VW583/DSC-1210.jpg) (https://ibb.co/x2CLJfV)
(https://i.ibb.co/YPV62Df/DSC-1213.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wB2TyJp)
(https://i.ibb.co/k009Njy/DSC-1219.jpg) (https://ibb.co/d66L8Fc)
(https://i.ibb.co/HrzQ0c7/DSC-1221.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fCp7b3M)
(https://i.ibb.co/Tr6ZCDQ/DSC-1223.jpg) (https://ibb.co/hCbkqxG)
(https://i.ibb.co/Hx6QTKh/DSC-1224.jpg) (https://ibb.co/pRcpj1h)
(https://i.ibb.co/3RGsncY/DSC-1225.jpg) (https://ibb.co/9Zzv7W3)
(https://i.ibb.co/7khqLnM/DSC-1226.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5KZPwrp)
(https://i.ibb.co/Bzydz4p/DSC-1227.jpg) (https://ibb.co/mD91Dvj)
(https://i.ibb.co/8XQGrFw/DSC-1228.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HX9Rtmy)
(https://i.ibb.co/xmjj664/DSC-1229.jpg) (https://ibb.co/3fNNccJ)
(https://i.ibb.co/mFPBLrg/DSC-1230.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Qjxc27t)
(https://i.ibb.co/bRwPMZQ/DSC-1231.jpg) (https://ibb.co/dJCrwqj)
(https://i.ibb.co/s37NwgC/DSC-1234.jpg) (https://ibb.co/JkZG7cq)
(https://i.ibb.co/NLSpzS4/DSC-1243.jpg) (https://ibb.co/VvmD8mK)
(https://i.ibb.co/tHGXKPZ/DSC-1244.jpg) (https://ibb.co/XWQ8Lky)
(https://i.ibb.co/n3pg8pY/DSC-1245.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Gsmx3m8)
(https://i.ibb.co/fxwBmb3/DSC-1246.jpg) (https://ibb.co/HH81m0c)
(https://i.ibb.co/3NBsFTZ/DSC-1247.jpg) (https://ibb.co/cFDv8yn)
(https://i.ibb.co/LN85KJF/DSC-1214.jpg) (https://ibb.co/J3KQZy1)
(https://i.ibb.co/G9Tf8ks/DSC-1215.jpg) (https://ibb.co/ypSmZ5h)
(https://i.ibb.co/8crDctW/DSC-1216.jpg) (https://ibb.co/6BHRBL3)
(https://i.ibb.co/fMpq5ww/DSC-1217.jpg) (https://ibb.co/Zd8GPDD)
(https://i.ibb.co/YNhF7n7/DSC-1218.jpg) (https://ibb.co/fXHzY6Y)
(https://i.ibb.co/qWXqvC2/DSC-1249.jpg) (https://ibb.co/5ntpPkJ)
(https://i.ibb.co/gR1pSbL/DSC-1250.jpg) (https://ibb.co/2k2Qv01)
(https://i.ibb.co/xm6kHpx/DSC-1251.jpg) (https://ibb.co/M87v6YF)
(https://i.ibb.co/d2Dfm47/DSC-1252.jpg) (https://ibb.co/swqgW9t)
(https://i.ibb.co/Mc1cMfZ/DSC-1253.jpg) (https://ibb.co/wSQSM7B)
This has been an epic journey into terrain building with lots of learning along the way!! I'm really happy with the final result and fulfilled a childhood dream in the process!! The table was designed for small Skirmish games with models of 28mm/32mm.
-
Superb 8)
I can imagine the camera doesn’t do it full justice though. Would love to see it in person :)
-
Wow. I admire anyone who can make their visions come true like this. Bravo!
Dan
-
Beautiful! Really lovely work.
-
Would love to see it in person :)
Well, it is available for sale ;)
-
Wow. I admire anyone who can make their visions come true like this. Bravo!
Dan
Thank you! The biggest challenge was the Waterfall, from the start I had decided that the piece be centred around a pool in a forest clearing, the resin work plus the watera cascading down took the most work and thought process.
-
lovely :-*
-
Lovely terrain!