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Other Stuff => Workbench => Topic started by: MacksMechas on September 12, 2020, 06:15:11 PM

Title: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 12, 2020, 06:15:11 PM
Generally you'll find me building Gunpla a plenty,  but I've taken a big interest in the tanks of WW2 and other ground vehicles.  So I started small with a Willys jeep I've been working on. I will be fitting the 30.cal boomstick and taking a gunner from one of my Sherman kits to put in the back on it.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 13, 2020, 04:31:47 PM
I've been doing work on this Jeep all weekend. For Saturday's work I finished painting and assembing the main body and driver.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 13, 2020, 05:29:16 PM
I have near enough finished the Jeep at this point, just need to get some decalfix to apply some waterslides to it and then I can move on to my next project; a 1/35 Sherman early type customised as 'Lucy Sue' from the movie 'Fury'.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 15, 2020, 07:33:46 PM
The Sherman shall have to wait,  instead I'm going to put together this little beauty that arrived today!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on September 18, 2020, 12:57:35 PM
Go knock em dead Chris.
1/35th wargaming, for those with enormous tables, or who like to
see the whites of the enemies' eyes.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 19, 2020, 09:58:49 PM
Go knock em dead Chris.
1/35th wargaming, for those with enormous tables, or who like to
see the whites of the enemies' eyes.

Will do, Pete! I took the opportunity in the good weather to prime the Sherman and Tiger 1 anyway, but that way I can work on them in my own time. For now I intend to try using that blue wash you gave me on these gunners to test how it looks on grey uniform creases!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Blackwolf on September 26, 2020, 02:52:59 AM
Nice work! As a modeller myself I appreciate your clean build,lovely!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 26, 2020, 09:15:01 PM
Nice work! As a modeller myself I appreciate your clean build,lovely!

Thanks very much! I managed to find my decalfix so I'll get the markings on next chance I get
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 26, 2020, 09:20:37 PM
I've been doing some work on Lucy Sue today.  Part of the way through base assembly I realised that the rear plate is a custom piece with extended coverage over the exhausts. So I used some plastic plate and green putty to cut an extension for it.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 26, 2020, 11:33:44 PM
Tonight's progress on Lucy Sue.  I need to build Roy Davis next and start working on the paint and the accessories on the tank.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 27, 2020, 09:03:27 PM
My weekend progress on Lucy Sue. I've got all the packs and armour added, I couldn't use the sticks I had for the unditching logs so I resorted to using the sprues of my Gundam beam saber runners instead.  Considering this is being airbrushed in the coming days I don't think it'll be much of a hindrance.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 28, 2020, 11:15:50 PM
Just bought some AFV Club 1/35 Tiger 1 treads. I'm all for taking my time with kits, but gluing together every single tread on a kit seems a bit tedious for my liking!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 03, 2020, 02:18:11 PM
Lucy Sue is in for her first coat of paint in my newly built spray booth. Simple cardboard box,  some filters and a fan at the rear with more filters to catch residue.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 08, 2020, 10:00:35 PM
After a long and stressful day,  I decided to wind down by working on the treads for Lucy Sue and Roy Davis. Not my best work,  but I can touch up on it further tomorrow.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 09, 2020, 10:12:39 PM
Start of my weekend has involved Lucy Sue's second coat of green paint. Once this dries she needs her camouflage added and then it's down to detailing and adding the tarp to finish it!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 10, 2020, 01:20:40 AM
She needs a tarp, some mud splatters, some bullet wounds and rope but apart from that Lucy Sue is all but finished!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on October 10, 2020, 11:39:35 AM
Quote
She needs a tarp, some mud splatters, some bullet wounds and rope but apart from that Lucy Sue is all but finished!

Markings?

Then 'What a Tanker' in 1/35th ?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 10, 2020, 02:49:53 PM
Markings?

Then 'What a Tanker' in 1/35th ?

Definitely going to be ready for 1/35 'What a Tanker'. I need to get some markings for Lucy Sue that match its screen appearance before it's truly finished. I might have some that I can chop up...
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 10, 2020, 04:08:13 PM
Just arrived today; a scoop from Amazon. Only £12 for an old school 1/35 Panther. It's got a decent amount of detail for a 1975 model and will make a nice simple project for 'What a Tanker' in large scale.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 10, 2020, 07:32:00 PM
After many weeks of work, I've finally finished Lucy Sue! I've weathered the tank, added some scuff marks and threaded some cable and rope to it, then added a tarp to the back and a radio antenna to finish. It has the only decal I could find on the images of the tank, that being number stamp on its rear (cutting up the numbers to get them right was a pain). But it's finished and ready for table top gaming!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 11, 2020, 08:01:40 PM
I spent today gluing together the Panther. It was a difficult assembly, mostly due to this being a 45 year old kit that's got gapping from mold degradation. But also the kit appears to have been adapted from a remote control version, so alot of its assembly doesn't translate so well to being a static kit as areas strengthened by interior support are now freestanding.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on October 11, 2020, 08:12:48 PM
Still it looks good. Can't wait to see it finished.
Have you thought about any scenery to go with the tanks.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 11, 2020, 08:57:22 PM
Still it looks good. Can't wait to see it finished.
Have you thought about any scenery to go with the tanks.

I have, yes. I'm building the 88mm anti-tank as scenery from the beetfield and I want to get some figurines on their stomachs to put into a diorama piece as well when the troops fall in behind the tanks.


Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 13, 2020, 10:55:44 PM
I started priming the Panther today. I tried using the Vallejo mecha grey primer. It works a treat and didn't need thinning,  but it'll need about a day or two to fully set.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Ragsta on October 14, 2020, 08:49:11 AM
Lovely stuff so far, the models are coming out great.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 14, 2020, 01:42:21 PM
Lovely stuff so far, the models are coming out great.

Thanks very much! I'm still new to this process compared to Gunpla, but I'm enjoying every minute of it!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 16, 2020, 05:30:00 PM
Another grab from the Prime day sale; a Russian T34/76! Question is do I build it as a Russian tank or do I make it into a North Korean tank?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 17, 2020, 03:13:38 PM
The Panther is now fully primed. Tomorrow I begin painting it and then it's down to adding camouflage,  the decals and some weathering.  Nothing too extreme for this one as it's going to be primarily for war games.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 20, 2020, 01:21:19 PM
The Panther's first coat of paint is complete.  When coat two is done it'll be the camouflage next!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 20, 2020, 04:27:41 PM
Coat two applied, though I wouldn't recommend the paint I used. "Citadel Layer Tamesi Desert" does not play fair with airbrushes.  I had to dismantle the entire thing to clean the cloggy mess out.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 22, 2020, 06:30:15 PM
Treads on, camouflage added and details painted.  Now the last thing to do is add some decals and weathering.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 22, 2020, 07:12:37 PM
Decals applied,  just need to add wear and tear and then I can put this project behind me
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on October 22, 2020, 08:21:09 PM
Looking good.
During my sort out I've found a diecast (1/35th?) jeep.
It's yours if you want it.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 22, 2020, 08:54:43 PM
Looking good.
During my sort out I've found a diecast (1/35th?) jeep.
It's yours if you want it.

That would be really nice and much appreciated,  thank you! I won't be in work tomorrow,  could I collect it from you after the half term?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 22, 2020, 09:35:52 PM
And finished! This was the most frustrating kit I've built in years,  but it was still a fun project.  I've learned a few things I can carry forward to build my Tiger tank in the process,  so it's had its merits to finish this Panther.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on October 22, 2020, 09:46:00 PM
Quote
That would be really nice and much appreciated,  thank you! I won't be in work tomorrow,  could I collect it from you after the half term?

Of course you can.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: demi_morgana on October 23, 2020, 08:04:24 PM
Really nice colors on that Panther!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 24, 2020, 12:16:42 PM
Really nice colors on that Panther!

Thank you very much! I'm going for 1945 last stands with the colours, old and beat to Hell with scuffs and dents.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: demi_morgana on October 24, 2020, 12:47:20 PM
Waiting for some more Wunderwaffe from your hobby station... ;)
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 24, 2020, 12:49:32 PM
Waiting for some more Wunderwaffe from your hobby station... ;)

Well next up is the Tiger 1 from "Fury" and the 76mm SS anti-tank gun from the same movie. I just bought the colours for them today!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 25, 2020, 01:47:00 AM
It's taken me until the early hours,  but I finally got Tiger 131 glued together. I had a look at some pictures of the tank (both on screen and in the museum) and noticed bullet holes in the rear exhaust guards.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 27, 2020, 05:56:03 PM
After adding some hit marks from the movie 'Fury', the Tiger is now ready to paint!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 28, 2020, 05:10:30 PM
The Tiger has been primed, ready for painting tomorrow!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 30, 2020, 09:40:29 PM
The Tiger has had its coats of paints, now it needs decals, details and weathering to finish!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on October 31, 2020, 10:05:57 AM
Then on to building an entire town????
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 01, 2020, 04:14:39 PM
After adding some wear and tear, some dirt, some rust and some decals the Tiger 1 from the movie "Fury" is finally done! I have netting on it I will be attaching flock to when I get some,  for now it's all but done.  I've added every hit mark from the Sherman tanks (bar the kill shots) to the front of the tank and the turret.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 01, 2020, 04:19:43 PM
While I was at it with my camera,  I took some photos of the Panther as well.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 21, 2020, 03:41:27 PM
I've been working again at last,  after some delay.  I have started on the T34/76 now, which I'll be building to resemble the Russian Gate Guards.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 22, 2020, 05:52:33 PM
The T34 has been primed, ready for painting this week. I also put together a new shelf for the tanks to sit on display.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 24, 2020, 12:06:02 AM
The T34/76 is airbrushed and ready for some weathering and details tomorrow!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 26, 2020, 07:40:50 PM
And finished! A weather worn, outside display piece tank, rather than a battle worn tank as I usually do.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on November 27, 2020, 02:53:56 PM
Nice.
When do we get the 1/35th scale Kremlin for it to stand in front of?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 28, 2020, 03:59:26 PM
Nice.
When do we get the 1/35th scale Kremlin for it to stand in front of?

I can't finish the plinth until Hobbycraft reopen unfortunately, but I know what I'm buying when I go in to build it. Should be done by Christmas!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 04, 2020, 04:21:23 PM
One Sherman Easy 8 kit + one radial engine kit = the biggest project I will have ever set myself.

I plan to try (keyword being try) to replicate the interior of the Sherman tank in 1/35 scale.  I have a kit of some crew on the way for Christmas and once I get some more plastic plate and putty I'll put my plan in motion!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 30, 2020, 04:10:19 PM
Christmas has certainly been fruitful this year.  I've enough projects to keep me occupied for the rest of the year!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on December 30, 2020, 06:32:43 PM
Quote
Christmas has certainly been fruitful this year.  I've enough projects to keep me occupied for the rest of the year!

You do realise that the rest of the year means... TOMORROW. ????!!!????
That is a lot of work, even for you.
I take it that the basement is no longer flooded, or is that why you got the ship kit?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 30, 2020, 09:36:58 PM
You do realise that the rest of the year means... TOMORROW. ????!!!????
That is a lot of work, even for you.
I take it that the basement is no longer flooded, or is that why you got the ship kit?

Let's just say we may as well have an indoor swimming pool now. After a short discussion, I've now permanently moved into the smaller but much warmer and much more comfortable dining room. And yes, the Bismarck shall set sail upon the tides of floor aneath, only to be scuttled and sit forever more on the surface of the tiles there!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 02, 2021, 12:33:20 AM
I decided to make my first project of 2021 the Matilda 2 MK3. I'll be building the turret with the 2 pounder gun and colouring it in the funky Tunisia 3 tone camouflage.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 02, 2021, 05:45:26 PM
Initial assembly finished, tomorrow I commence the primer process.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on January 03, 2021, 10:59:15 AM
You are truly waltzing along with that Matilda.
Good progress.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 07, 2021, 09:32:37 PM
Primer coat done  the black should help details stand out better beneath some thin coats of paint
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 09, 2021, 02:50:11 PM
The Matilda has its first coat of paint,  now to mask off and add the other tones.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 09, 2021, 09:36:33 PM
The other tones are added and now the Matilda is ready to be detailed! I've bought some sand textured paint to add some authenticity to the finish.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Codsticker on January 09, 2021, 11:57:43 PM
Love that camo scheme. It almost made me collect an early war FOW army. :D
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 10, 2021, 12:19:23 AM
Love that camo scheme. It almost made me collect an early war FOW army. :D

I fell in love with the Matilda 2 as soon as I saw it's daring paint scheme. I may have to get another one of these kits, it was a lot of fun to put together and the various camouflage lend to a whole new range of paint testing!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 10, 2021, 08:13:58 PM
The tank is coming together nicely now.  It has a mixture of grit and textured sand paint to add the dirt in the fenders and track,  there's oil spillage around the bogie top up hatches,  scratches and exhaust dirt on the air vents and exhaust pipes.

Now it needs a thin top coat of fade and decals. Then I'm going to have a look at some beginners methods for painting the figures,  I'm still struggling with those at the minute but I'll get there.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 11, 2021, 12:25:51 PM
That's all the washes and decals applied,  now it needs a top coat of fade and the figures to finish it!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 11, 2021, 01:20:03 PM
The dusty top coat has been added,  now the tank itself is finished!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 24, 2021, 04:36:07 PM
The Matilda 2 Mk4 has finally been finished! I painted up the figurines yesterday and topcoated the whole tank to seal it in. It was easily the project I've spent the most time on to date and I plan to carry the new techniques I've learned forward.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 24, 2021, 04:38:52 PM
Some more photos of the Matilda 2
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on January 24, 2021, 04:51:04 PM
Good work, you might even persuade me into 1/35th What a Tanker.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 24, 2021, 05:15:16 PM
Good work, you might even persuade me into 1/35th What a Tanker.

If you need to borrow a tank, I've plenty ready for gaming I can bring in (when we're finally allowed to host the club again, that is). Hope you're feeling better after your flu, now I'm the one stuck at home sick!  :?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on January 24, 2021, 08:07:24 PM
Wondered why I hadn't bumped into you at school.
Snowed off tomorrow.
You get well soon.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 24, 2021, 09:00:07 PM
Wondered why I hadn't bumped into you at school.
Snowed off tomorrow.
You get well soon.

Thanks very much Pete, I will. As soon as these kidney stones clear up I'll be right as rain.  Doctor wanted me in hospital,  but I'm not going anywhere near one while Covid is so high in Coventry.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 25, 2021, 06:54:02 PM
https://youtu.be/1KIpxrohYmM (https://youtu.be/1KIpxrohYmM)

I have uploaded one of my first videos documenting my building process. This is just showcasing my first solid attempt at painting figurines, which later were set into my Matilda 2.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 29, 2021, 12:40:53 PM
I decided to keep myself busy in my nights awake,  so I've been building my new Airfix M3 Grant kit. I didn't expect it to have a full interior! As such I've decided to put my miniart engine and crew in this kit, as they are the only things missing, and instead build my Easy Eight as normal.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 31, 2021, 09:55:01 PM
After a short stay in hospital I decided to unwind and built the Miniart engine for my M3. This was hands down the worst model kit I've ever built. Parts wouldn't fit, mismolded alignments, unclear instructions and horrible connection points on the sprue really began to wear my patience thin. But it's done and it's a perfect fit in the tank. Now I can relax for the night.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on February 17, 2021, 07:20:49 PM
I started working on the Grant again, I've had to modify the gun mantlet so that the body can be removed from the hull without snagging on the 75mm gun.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on February 19, 2021, 02:37:41 PM
The main gun sponson and final body details have been completed,  now to assemble the turret and crew then paint it all!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on February 19, 2021, 03:38:33 PM
Good progress Chris.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on February 19, 2021, 04:44:33 PM
Now ready for painting,  the tank has been assembled and dismantled into each section for their primer coats.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on February 20, 2021, 12:23:58 AM
Good progress Chris.

Thanks Pete, I see you've been busy with aircraft. Should I be getting my Hawker ready next?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on March 29, 2021, 10:04:14 PM
It's been a while,  but I've finally got around to continuing the Grant. It's had the interior primed in white and the exterior primed in base blue/grey. I plan to finish the interior with hand painting and then I'll spray the exterior with the airbrush and move on to weathering.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on March 30, 2021, 02:53:44 PM
Progress again, well done.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on March 30, 2021, 11:32:27 PM
The interiors of M3's I've seen online can be described in exactly 3 words: white and rusty. There's very little colour variation so thankfully that's made painting it much easier. I think the rust turned out okay, I'm still trialling multi shade and stippling.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 08, 2021, 04:43:17 PM
The Grant/Lee is now masked up and ready for spray painting! After this comes a hefty amount of detailing,  weathering and then the crew assembly.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on April 08, 2021, 04:52:24 PM
keep up the good work.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 10, 2021, 09:12:43 PM
keep up the good work.

Cheers, Pete. Will do!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 10, 2021, 09:15:18 PM
The tank body now has its first coat of colour applied. I'm still building this as a hybrid/repair of an M3 Lee tank, so the turret will be coloured in the British Tunisia front camo with a crudely painted American Army star on it.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 10, 2021, 11:02:52 PM
The second coats of paint have been applied now. Time to camo the turret. I also separated the body again and put to rest my fears of overspray. There is very minimal work to be done to finalise the paint gaps.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 10, 2021, 11:45:11 PM
The last of tonight's work; I've finished painting the turret and even tried something new with the body. I saw Night Shift on YouTube use olive drab to preshade rust along welded seamlines, so I gave it a go. I don't think it turned out half bad!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 15, 2021, 11:21:02 PM
The final airbrush work has been done to the Lee now. I added some lighter tones of rust/dirt and painted the engine. I also glued that into place and finished the interior work. Now the tank needs the final details hand painted onto it with various weathering, dirt and oil. That'll leave only the decals,  crew and treads to finish the project over all.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: mikos khan on April 16, 2021, 01:57:24 AM
Love the interior detail.  Well done.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 16, 2021, 07:29:57 PM
Love the interior detail.  Well done.
Thanks very much! This little project is finally coming together now
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 28, 2021, 12:29:02 AM
I've now completed the turret's interior paint and started weathering the tank. I need to finish the work on the treads, add some oil spills and mud, then finally finish assembly with some decals and an aerial.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on April 28, 2021, 05:37:37 PM
Nice so far & I agree to the 'Oil stains' etc.
Can't have a neat tank, can we?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 28, 2021, 06:04:33 PM
Nice so far & I agree to the 'Oil stains' etc.
Can't have a neat tank, can we?

No, not a chance! I've seen way too many photos of tanks with petrol, diesel and lubricant oil spilled across them during hasty repairs and maintenance.

Plus where's the fun in building a clean tank?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 02, 2021, 03:36:56 AM
Just some last stippling, the treads and dirt to go. Then add the decals and the tank is done!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on May 02, 2021, 07:51:46 PM
Great, now you can start on the 6257 other Lee/Grants.  lol lol lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 02, 2021, 08:55:41 PM
Great, now you can start on the 6257 other Lee/Grants.  lol lol lol

If that's the case I hope you're alright with a 1/105th army!  lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 02, 2021, 08:58:18 PM
I've been working on this tank since January, but finally it is done!

1/35th scale Airfix Grant, built as a field repair General Lee of the American 2nd Armored Division.

I'll get better photos as soon as the crew are finished, then I'll have truly finished this entire project.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on May 02, 2021, 09:44:20 PM
Well done Chris.
What's the next project?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 02, 2021, 11:38:43 PM
Well done Chris.
What's the next project?

First will be the crew for the Lee, then after that I'm trying to decide between building Old Phyliss or my Cromwell Mk 6. I'll dig out both kits and give them a look over beforehand and see what I feel like doing.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 09, 2021, 11:29:05 AM
After a quick look over the Miniart figures I have to say, they're very badly molded. They don't have instructions, either. I'll get one put together and see how it comes out.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 09, 2021, 12:26:33 PM
Okay after a bit of work,the end result seems worth it. They're really well detailed and glue together nicely!

I think he's a little oblivious to the Matilda pointing a 2pdr at his head, though...
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on May 10, 2021, 02:06:48 PM
Chris!
Quote
They don't have instructions,

INSTRUCTIONS
Left arm on the left side (upper) with left leg beneath it,
then similar with the right arm & leg.
The head goes on the top.
remember,  'One of everything down the middle &
two of everything down the sides'
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 29, 2021, 11:37:00 PM
It's been a busy couple of weeks and with a week in Ireland tomorrow, I decided to spend tonight building more crew. I also filled out the gaps with green stuff putty. I wanted to make sure they fit the tank, so I've trialled them inside. So far so good!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on May 30, 2021, 12:02:24 PM
Looking good. 
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 31, 2021, 04:48:46 PM
I may be in Ireland, but it didn't stop me visiting a model shop in Belfast City centre. I found the elusive Panzer 4 and even saw these tiny Dragon models of tanks, too. So I grabbed a Tiger 1 to see what they're like.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on May 31, 2021, 05:30:51 PM
So...what ARE they like?
Don't keep us in suspense.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 31, 2021, 06:39:19 PM
It's tiny, but it's nicely detailed. For £4 I'm not complaining,  this was worth it as a handy little afternoon project!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 01, 2021, 01:56:13 PM
Does it say what scale it is?
If not, what scale do you think it is?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 02, 2021, 12:46:50 AM
Does it say what scale it is?
If not, what scale do you think it is?

It's 1/144 scale. It'll be the tiniest thing on my tank shelf. I'm tempted to put it with my Gundam kits as most of those are the same scale.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 02, 2021, 01:12:23 AM
My best mate got me some kits as well. A 1/72 Japanese tankette and a box of 1/35 Miniart American troops resting. I plan to build a grass base display for them with my Dodge Guntruck beside them.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 02, 2021, 08:09:11 AM
Looking forwards to seeing your finished work.
Putting the 1/144th tank with those Robots
will show just how big they are.
By the way if you want even smaller tanks,
1/200th, & 1/600th (& others) are out there. lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 02, 2021, 11:08:37 PM
Looking forwards to seeing your finished work.
Putting the 1/144th tank with those Robots
will show just how big they are.
By the way if you want even smaller tanks,
1/200th, & 1/600th (& others) are out there. lol

Thanks Pete, I'll be back home by Monday and I'll get started on them when possible.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 06, 2021, 09:10:54 PM
It only took an afternoon, so here's the 1/144 Tiger with a basic paint job. I accidentally broke the treads on one side, but it's not so bad. If you're looking a quick project to cool down from larger works, I'd definitely recommend the Dragon mini series.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 13, 2021, 12:17:25 AM
And with tonight's work, the crew are finally ready for painting. They'll only be added to the tank for open display, otherwise they'll be removed and stored.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 14, 2021, 12:23:54 AM
That's the commander done, the rest of the crew will follow soon!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 14, 2021, 10:52:09 AM
He looks very nice, but he ain't Oddball. lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 18, 2021, 10:09:59 PM
I have more photos from a photoshoot to come, but for now here is the final version of the M3 Lee, crew painted and on display with it!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 19, 2021, 10:09:07 AM
Very good job of work there Chris.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 19, 2021, 07:48:25 PM
Very good job of work there Chris.

Thank you very much, Pete!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 20, 2021, 01:08:59 PM
Here's the photographs of the tank itself, completed after 6 months of work.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 20, 2021, 01:12:05 PM
And here's the crew, on display in the dismantled tank.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 20, 2021, 11:12:43 PM
Just as one project is finished,  I'm straight on to the next one! This time I'm building a 1/35 M4A1 Sherman 76(W) which I plan to paint as a tank from the 3rd Armored Division. This will be paired up with my Easy Eight, my infantry figures and, in the future, a Pershing to represent a company that lead infantry from B Company into Cologne.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 22, 2021, 09:52:53 PM
Today's progress; I've got both sets of bogies done and fitted,  put the rear plate and exhausts on and tried a stippling technique to replicate casting on the body. I've never tried this before so I can't wait to see how it turns out.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: white knight on June 23, 2021, 08:11:38 AM
Great stuff!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 23, 2021, 01:45:07 PM
Thanks very much!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 27, 2021, 12:13:26 AM
My next update on the M4A1 76(W). The tank body is now complete and stowage has been added across the back and extra armour in the form of track and some poorly made first time sandbags up front. Tomorrow I'll work on the turret and get to painting through the week!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 27, 2021, 12:54:33 AM
One more update to show off some logs I've built for the sides as added armour. This is the last thing I'll do today.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 27, 2021, 10:07:40 AM
You are churning those tanks out.
Are you going to rename your workshop. 'Detroit' ? :)
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 27, 2021, 11:25:11 AM
You are churning those tanks out.
Are you going to rename your workshop. 'Detroit' ? :)

I know, I really should get back to Luftwaffe and Vickers/Vauxhall, shouldn't I?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 27, 2021, 12:46:52 PM
Quote
I know, I really should get back to Luftwaffe and Vickers/Vauxhall, shouldn't I?

What works for me, & it has taken me decades to work it out,
is. ' Do what you WANT to do' (You will gain enjoyment and
things will get done.) Trying to do something because, 'I should'
only results in unhappiness.  :)
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 27, 2021, 01:31:19 PM
I completely agree and I guarantee it's why the M3 took me so long. So many problems that put me off working on it...

I've been hammering this Sherman together like a well maintained factory,  on the other hand. Something about the kit and its ease of construction has been a refreshing change and I know it's why I've put effort into its appearance.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 27, 2021, 01:32:46 PM
Speaking of,  the turret is finished now! Just have to paint and weather it this week and get the right decals for the 3rd Armored Division
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 28, 2021, 03:25:25 PM
As with anything in life, do enough of something and eventually it will go wrong. While I was priming the Sherman, my compressor died. It's only a cheap one and lasted 3 years but couldn't have happened at a worse time. I finished priming with a rattle can instead, going for white as the paint in photographs of said tank is very faded and this will make the faded paint effect easier. If anyone knows someone with a second hand airbrush compressor going, please let me know. I'm not rich (given an upcoming wedding) but I've some cash to spare!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 28, 2021, 05:37:38 PM
I managed a slight repair on the airbrush,  it works for a bit before cutting off. After getting the first coat of paint applied , I have to say that I'm very pleased with the results of the stippling effect. It does look very much like cast steel.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 28, 2021, 07:37:10 PM
Last progress for today; I added a fade layer and glued the treads together.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 29, 2021, 09:46:02 AM
Nice.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 30, 2021, 11:05:09 PM
Not much progress this week so far. It's fully assembled now. I just need to add decals and weathering and that'll be this nice, easy project finished.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on July 01, 2021, 11:07:49 AM
Quote
and that'll be this nice, easy project finished.

So, what you are looking for now is a challenging project, or projects.
May I suggest... do it all over again, but for 28mm figures.
Then you could use them for wargames.  :D
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on July 02, 2021, 02:11:01 PM
28mm, that's 1/56 scale isn't it? I don't have any in that scale yet, but I can get some later in the year. Currently funding all cash into the wedding unfortunately. But some of the warlord kits look really nice,  I could ready an infantry section, tank regiment and anti tank regiment to round out a nice division for playing!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on July 02, 2021, 02:56:38 PM
You can get away with using 1/48th.
Lots of choice there.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on July 02, 2021, 05:44:45 PM
You can get away with using 1/48th.
Lots of choice there.

in which case I've got a 1/48 Crusader mk2 I can build next
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on July 03, 2021, 01:43:44 PM
I spent last night painting basic details on the M4A1 and added decals for the 3rd Armored Division, used in the battle for Cologne. Now I'm going to spend the weekend weathering the tank and adding a few bullet holes from machine gun fire they suffered on the climb to the cathedral.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on July 03, 2021, 04:16:44 PM
And just like that, the tank is done! Ready to round a corner and get taken out by a waiting Panther.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on July 18, 2021, 06:00:10 PM
Here's some photos of the finished M4A1. I tried to keep the tracks relatively clean but worn, as this was driving through paved streets. So it has some mud stains, but primarily broken stone and dust for wear.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on July 18, 2021, 06:16:31 PM
Yet more nice work Chris.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on July 18, 2021, 07:12:38 PM
Yet more nice work Chris.

Thanks very much again, Pete. It'll be the last project until the wedding is over. At the moment I've not much time to work on things.  We're looking forward to seeing you there!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on August 05, 2021, 01:28:53 PM
I'd like to say a big thank you to Peter and his lovely wife for not only honouring me with his attendance at my wedding, but for also providing my husband and I with a plethora of wonderful gifts!

Not least among them these infantry figures from the German and British armies. I'll have these ready for a game soon!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on August 05, 2021, 03:07:51 PM
You are as welcome as the flowers in May (One of my
Mother's sayings).
I WILL get you down to an easier (to store) 'scale'
i.e. 28mm
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Ragsta on August 08, 2021, 10:04:25 AM
Very nice tankage work indeed  :)
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on August 15, 2021, 01:59:14 PM
Very nice tankage work indeed  :)

Thank you very much!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on August 22, 2021, 11:30:02 AM
I'm currently on holiday in Ireland and decided to stop into my favourite hobby shop there. I took away 3 small scale kits of my favourite tanks! Given the price difference, I think I'll drop back to small scale for a while, they're nicely detailed for their size too.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on August 22, 2021, 03:00:33 PM
Quote
I think I'll drop back to small scale for a while, they're nicely detailed for their size too.

Plenty of opposition for those at my house.
Let me know when you're back & free to play.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on August 25, 2021, 12:25:54 AM
Plenty of opposition for those at my house.
Let me know when you're back & free to play.

Will do, I come back home on Saturday and will be free Tuesday and Wednesday. The school restarts training on the Thursday so I'll be free afterwards too.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on August 28, 2021, 04:14:49 PM
I've PMed you.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on August 29, 2021, 01:07:34 PM
First tank finished for battle; the vintage Sherman!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on August 30, 2021, 01:53:10 PM
And now, too, the starter set Cromwell is ready for battle!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 13, 2021, 11:22:15 PM
It's been a while since I posted something new. I've been working today on some possible colour schemes for some centurions kindly gifted to me by Has-Been. After looking at some older ones, I've settled on these colours!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on September 14, 2021, 10:49:33 AM
You are becoming a Wargamer! :)
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on September 14, 2021, 11:36:34 AM
You are becoming a Wargamer! :)

And loving it, too! I'm going to try the next few figures with the airbrush to see if I can speed up the process any
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on October 13, 2021, 12:48:13 PM
I attended the Partizan wargaming show in Newark on Sunday,  along with a few friends. I had such a great time and managed to grab a lot of goodies while I was there!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on October 13, 2021, 02:54:22 PM
Not enough! You need to buy far more than you
can possibly paint before the next show. Follow
my example. lol lol lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 10, 2021, 11:20:37 PM
I recently started working on a new project (at last emerging from my silence).

Last Christmas, my Dad gifted me the Airfix Vintage Classics Bismarck and I've been delaying it ever since. This is down to the sheer amount of work needed to complete the kit. Between excess flash, mismolded parts, needing replacement gun barrels and (to top it off) port and starboard hull pieces that would not fit together without heavy modifications and gapping,  this ship will be one hell of a project.

But at the end of the day, this is a gift from someone very special to me. So for that reason I will persevere without replacing anything and build this kit from the yesteryear of 1959 as it was intended.

Wish me luck!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on November 11, 2021, 01:48:44 PM
You'll be happy when it is finished.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Digits on November 11, 2021, 01:57:04 PM
Just been watching a program on the final hours of the Bismarck.   Lovely looking battleship, looking forward to seeing this one done and painted!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on November 14, 2021, 01:45:13 PM
After some more copious work, I've managed to get onto the upper decks of the Bismarck. I've filled the gaps in the hull with putty (if only all maritime repairs were that easy) and I've attached the stands as well.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: vodkafan on November 29, 2021, 11:12:54 PM
Airfix? Mismoulded parts? Surely not!  lol
I only just found this thread.  So this is what you get up to.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: vodkafan on November 29, 2021, 11:29:46 PM
If the model goes wrong you can always model it after it was all blown up  lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 20, 2021, 01:03:38 PM
It's been a while,  hasn't it? Long story short: new computer,  forgot login. But all is fine now!

I haven't been able to work on much recently due to both work and my desk being used as a makeshift storage for Christmas gifts, but now that space is clear I have started working on some of my 1/72 kits.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on December 20, 2021, 01:22:03 PM
For use with What A Tanker I presume.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: vodkafan on December 21, 2021, 01:18:23 PM
They look spiffing mate  :D
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 21, 2021, 09:40:04 PM
They look spiffing mate  :D

Thanks very much! Next up will be taking inventory of the EZ8's you gave me.  I'll be fixing them up and possibly turning them into the first of a Korean war unit.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 21, 2021, 09:40:54 PM
For use with What A Tanker I presume.

That's the plan,  get them all rolling out as various units across the war!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 30, 2021, 01:37:08 PM
I hope everyone had a merry Christmas! I spent most of mine in bed,  sick as a dog :-X  But when I did open my gifts I found many a kit to build!

I decided to start with one of two Zvezda T34-85's I got. True to Russian technology; it fits together more or less  lol
I'll be trying to use a few techniques I saw online with this one like adding weld beads and cross cuts on rough edges.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 30, 2021, 07:06:28 PM
Today's work has seen the rest of the hull assembled. I also attempted some weld beads with a bit of milliput and a cocktail stick. It looks okay,  hopefully paint will show it off better. Just the turret,  stowage and tracks to go!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: vodkafan on December 30, 2021, 11:58:58 PM
That's intense for 1/72 mate.  :o  You are a hero!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on December 31, 2021, 09:19:38 AM
That's intense for 1/72 mate.  :o  You are a hero!

I should have said, but this is a 1/35 scale kit. I've been working with them again to practice my replication of WW2 colour photos
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on December 31, 2021, 05:50:12 PM
Quote
I should have said, but this is a 1/35 scale kit. I've been working with them again to practice my replication of WW2 colour photos

Should have fibbed & said they were 1/100th  :D :D :D
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: vodkafan on January 01, 2022, 12:14:44 PM
I should have said, but this is a 1/35 scale kit. I've been working with them again to practice my replication of WW2 colour photos

Oh I didn't know Zvesda did 1/35 too. The kit looks good. You should have the film Cross Of Iron playing in the background while you make it. The tank attack scene is awesome.  lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 02, 2022, 04:13:21 PM
I've got all pieces attached now,  turret built and even stippled casting onto it. Now the T34 85 needs to be primed and painted.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Codsticker on January 02, 2022, 08:24:28 PM
Nice. Is that Mr. Surfacer you used for the texture on the turret?
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 02, 2022, 10:48:14 PM
Nice. Is that Mr. Surfacer you used for the texture on the turret?

Thank you very much! It's actually just Vallejo 70.400 plastic putty. I mixed it 5 drops to one drop water and dabbed it on with an old paint brush. Once you take the sharp edges off with a fine once over of 1200 emery paper it really looks the part.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Codsticker on January 03, 2022, 05:38:36 AM
Oh good to know- I have some of that putty.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 09, 2022, 11:29:47 PM
I've begun the process of spraying the T34 85. I added a black base coat, followed by patches of white fade coat that'll hopefully help the paint look like it's worn out.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on January 10, 2022, 07:39:36 AM
Good progress young Chris.
I like the idea of the white under patches.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 15, 2022, 10:43:39 AM
I've added the coats of paint, 4 in total. 2 layers of NATO green, 1 rust patch layer and the last a top coat of RAF green. Now the tank needs its treads and all of its wear and tear.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 23, 2022, 01:25:12 AM
These tracks took an ungodly amount of time to put together. Mostly because they hold together so horribly. They're glued in now, though,  so I can move on with the weathering and details now.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 23, 2022, 06:55:46 PM
After spilling an entire (brand new) bottle of wash across my desk, I was ready to give up on this tank today. But I persevered and managed to finish it.

The second T34 85 I have will be built as a burnt out tank, destroyed in battle. I intend to make it my first diorama piece.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on January 24, 2022, 09:52:56 AM
No use crying over split milk, sorry that should say, 'wash'.  :D
Nice work there Chris.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 24, 2022, 11:02:13 PM
No use crying over split milk, sorry that should say, 'wash'.  :D
Nice work there Chris.

Thank you Pete. Might be no use crying over spilled milk, but I certainly wasn't happy to have a black stain down my favourite jeans!  :(

Ah well, onwards and upwards to the crest of the hill 1815 style!  lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: vodkafan on January 28, 2022, 12:04:37 AM
Looks great! I confess I don't understand all the underneath coats of paint- I thought they were going to re-emerge in some fiendish clever way. But I do like the mix of rust and green.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 30, 2022, 04:51:08 PM
Looks great! I confess I don't understand all the underneath coats of paint- I thought they were going to re-emerge in some fiendish clever way. But I do like the mix of rust and green.

I can answer the query about the black and white with a resounding "crap, I left the pressure up too high!". It should have come through like the paint was faded, but the paint got fired at the tank so fast it thickened up and covered it all.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 30, 2022, 10:13:08 PM
Here's some photos of the finished T34 85. I've learned a lot of things from building this kit and will try to improve on the new techniques in future,  especially working with resin and thinning paints.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 30, 2022, 10:13:57 PM
Some more photos of the T34 85
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: vodkafan on February 02, 2022, 12:19:52 AM
Good work. Such an iconic shape the T34/85 has.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MaleGriffin on February 18, 2022, 05:09:01 PM
Exceptional Comrade!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 10, 2022, 06:41:29 PM
After a long break from model kit building to finish a course at work, I've decided to come back and build a 1/35 kit to just enjoy myself. I might do a few kits I want to build for the foreseeable future. I own plenty for gaming and such, but right now I just feel like relaxing with some easy to build and fun to paint display pieces.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on April 10, 2022, 08:06:36 PM
A little of what you fancy does you good. Enjoy.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 11, 2022, 10:47:11 PM
Today's progress was pretty much finishing the hull. I've left the stowage boxes open on purpose. I plan to fill them with some stowage kits I have and get the tank ready to seat some troops.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 12, 2022, 09:39:30 PM
I've spent today finishing the tank's build and adding stowage. Tomorrow I will get the figures for the back built, add the hedgerow ripper and start painting it.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 16, 2022, 07:41:21 AM
The tank is primed and ready to paint (though I haven't photographed it yet).

Now I'm off to Ireland for a week to see family and my new baby niece!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on April 23, 2022, 07:15:52 PM
I think I did a much better job with the faded paint scheme on this tank than on the T34!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 01, 2022, 02:59:40 PM
I've been steadily working through some faded paint and details on the Stuart. It needs more things like the lights and satchels painted, then I'll clear coat and add a few decals. After that I'll get the hedgerow cutter attached.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Grumpy Gnome on May 02, 2022, 07:34:15 AM
Wow! So much to love in this thread. Amazingly realistic detail work and weathering!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on May 02, 2022, 09:54:46 PM
Wow! So much to love in this thread. Amazingly realistic detail work and weathering!

Thank you very much! It means a lot to get such great feedback!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 26, 2022, 01:10:40 AM
It's been a while from I've posted anything, hasn't it? A lot of hassle with trips overseas, moving house then suddenly not moving house, workloads etc, etc...

Anyway! I've all but finished the Stuart now. All it needs is for me to eventually get around to building a hedgerow cutter and putting some troops on its back.

Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 26, 2022, 05:53:25 AM
Nice to see your progress. e will have to work out some ay to Wargame
with your armour collection.
Quote
then suddenly not moving house,
Does that mean you're staying where you are?

Lovely work by the way, & I do NOT mean
Quote
workloads etc,
lol lol lol
Hope to see you at the School club this week.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MaleGriffin on June 26, 2022, 04:24:06 PM
Lovely work! Great looking tanks!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on June 26, 2022, 06:11:52 PM
Does that mean you're staying where you are?

Yeah, our landlords came to an agreement. I have to say, it was down to the guy who was in charge of selling the house. He didn't know that the letting agents had found a buyer who would keep us as tenants, so when I told him he said he'd try to make a deal with him and see what happens. They agreed a price so now we don't have to move after all.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on June 26, 2022, 06:33:37 PM
Good news.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 17, 2023, 12:13:29 AM
It's certainly been a while since I've posted. I've pulled myself sort of out of depression now and I'm trying to get back to building things. I decided to start by finishing the Bismarck. It's nearly completed, just need to finish painting the details on the decking and add a few washes in places. Then I'll add the flags to the bow and stern.
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on January 17, 2023, 06:10:57 AM
Nice to see you back Chris.
Also nice to see you following Churchill's order...
'Finish off the Bismarck!'  lol lol lol
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: Golgotha on January 17, 2023, 08:59:13 AM
That is really lovely and I ship I have always wanted to build. Keep 'em coming...
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: MacksMechas on January 18, 2023, 10:16:52 PM
Nice to see you back Chris.
Also nice to see you following Churchill's order...
'Finish off the Bismarck!'  lol lol lol

Maybe I'll have to build the Hood next, just so I can put them port to starboard and guns a-blazing!
Title: Re: Mack's not-so-mecha stuff
Post by: has.been on January 19, 2023, 11:01:44 AM
Quote
Maybe I'll have to build the Hood next, just so I can put them port to starboard and guns a-blazing!

Either end of the mantlepiece?