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Miniatures Adventure => The Second World War => Topic started by: Seb on December 29, 2020, 05:40:20 PM

Title: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 22/04/24 - 20mm Baddies WIP
Post by: Seb on December 29, 2020, 05:40:20 PM: I'm pretty sure I'm not to only one that has piles of unpainted WW2 minis in too many different scales. 6mm checked, 15mm checked, 20mm (1/72) checked, 28mm checked...

The whole idea was that I would use different scales for different levels of games. Bigger scales for platoon size games and smaller scales for company/battalion. I think we can all see how this can end right? I got bits of miniatures in different scales, but not enough of them finished to play a game.

I recently got an 8cm mortar by Battlefront (it was a sample to check the material they use now). I started painting them for fun and see if I got all the paints I need. I did not try to do a superb job, just test colours and ideas for camo, results so far below:

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/Fallschirmjagers.png)

And I thought, ok, it's time to finish some started projects. And as I already have almost full infantry platoon for Brits (need only some support weapons and few NCO/Officer). So time to dig up the Skytrex Germans and start painting more baddies. I plan to have two opposing platoons, no specific system in general, I want to use them to play CoC, AIBSM, Bolt Action, who knows maybe even Flams of War.

Let's see how long it will take me to finish this project :)

Cheers,
Seb

UPDATE 07/10/2021
I decided to expended this topic and include some of my 20mm (1/72) WW2 projects as well. Just to make this a bit easier for me and to avoid creating too many extra unnecessary topics :)
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on December 30, 2020, 10:38:39 AM: Progress on the British side of the front.

The 3 squads of infantry and a Sherman ready. I need just a few single miniatures and NCO, plus the Platoon HQ.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/15mm-PSC-FoW-British-infantry.jpg)

Sherman has no markings as I wanted to keep him "universal", but I think I will get some decals. It will look far better with them.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: sundayhero on December 30, 2020, 12:28:18 PM: Nice beginning ! you're right, a few stars on the sherman will bring some interesting detail.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on December 30, 2020, 01:29:27 PM: Thanks!

Yes, I will get some decals asap :)
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Storm-the-front on December 30, 2020, 07:07:14 PM: 15mm is the best scale for WWII company and platoon level firefights. Took me a couple years to realize. Haha
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on December 31, 2020, 10:13:35 AM: Quote from: Storm-the-front on December 30, 2020, 07:07:14 PM
15mm is the best scale for WWII company and platoon level firefights. Took me a couple years to realize. Haha

Yes, I notice this as well. But I find that for bigger tanks on tanks action 6mm is better haha
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on January 03, 2021, 11:29:19 PM: Great stuff Seb! I love my 15mm WWII (I have 6mm in the works for bigger games) and would recommend the Battlegroup series to add to your stable of rules. They work for a range of conflict sizes and are (or at least I find them) very enjoyable.

Keep up the good work,
BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: SJWi on January 04, 2021, 05:59:41 AM: Seb, I would echo support for 15mm and the Battlegroup rules. I have mainly 20mm WW2, but if starting afresh would go with 15mm. The choice of vehicles is now huge and the quality of the models now excellent. In the past I found that the infantry were pretty naff but the recent releases are almost as good as 20mm, and they are probably the smallest scale that can be individually based and thus useful for various rulesets. Despite my large 20mm collection I did start a late war British force in 15mm a few years ago and am now slowly building up a German opponent.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on January 04, 2021, 02:20:06 PM: Thanks, lads!

I did give a quick glance to Battlegroup rules some time ago. I wasn't sure about them. I heard many good words about it, but maybe I need to give them a try.

I stared some germans as well.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Skytrex-germans.jpg)
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: sundayhero on January 04, 2021, 04:27:10 PM: Personaly I choosed Iron Cross, wich is simplier than Battlegroup.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on January 04, 2021, 07:51:34 PM: Excellent start on your germans Seb. I’d also recommend Peter pig miniatures (available from Brookhurst in the US) as the range is comprehensive and I love the sculpts (Peter Pig = Infantry, Battlefront/Plastic Soldier Company = vehicles is my personal choice, although I’ve just bought my first few skytrex vehicles and they’re lovely).

I have read/tried Iron cross but found it a bit too simplistic (nothing wrong with it just not my style of game) and would really push Battlegroup to any prospective WWII gamer. It is very easy to play and follow (I’ve managed to get a couple of non-historical gaming friends at my club to play and they’ve not only enjoyed it but keep asking when we’ll play again!) especially if you’re lucky enough to have someone demo it to you, and works well from smaller squad based games up to multiple platoons. There were 3 associated pdfs called dispatches, one of which contains a very comprehensive Q&A and some walkthrough guides for parts of the rules. I doubt you’re anywhere near me but if you are within a stones throw of South Wales and want to have a demo then I’d be more than happy to help (assuming I’m/we’re ever allowed out again).

BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on January 07, 2021, 10:49:22 AM: I'm focusing on Chain of Command and IABSM. I like the lardies approach to the topic. But I got some friend that play Bolt Action and FoW, so I'm not discarding those as well.

Well, I'm currently living in Sweden, but my main historical wargaming buddies are in Scotland :D

I got some PSC plastics (both early and the next-gen). I personally prefer the more bulky minis of Battlefront/PSC, but the Skytrex infantry is very nice. And I will stick to metal minis. I got only experience with Skytrex T-72, and they are excellent so I'm assuming others should be similar in quality. I was thinking about adding some Forge in Battle vehicles, but I'm not a massive fan of their integrated bases, so I will probably stay with PSC/Battlefront plastics for core vehicles but add a bit flavour with Skytrex/Peter Pig and others.

I hope to paint some baddies today.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: frank xerox on January 07, 2021, 10:12:56 PM: Those nappies won't change themselves! :D
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on January 08, 2021, 12:48:33 AM: I like the PSC vehicles but also find their chaps too slight (probably more accurate but like you I prefer a chunkier figure) and tend to replace the vehicle crews with Peter Pig or sculpt new ones. I haven’t seen any skytrex infantry in person but the crews for the vehicles I bought recently were good. I’m also put off of Forged in Battle by the bases (I do base my vehicles but like a small, thin base that isn’t too prominent) and as yet I haven’t found anything that only they do and I need enough to build up the energy to try removing the massive chunky base - actually that’s not true, the SdKfz 250 armoured munitions carrier variant - 252? or 3? would be nice but only because I like odd non-combat vehicles.

One of the great things about historical gaming is the vast range of available rulesets that mean you an generally find one that appeals to you and what you want in a game. I use my WWII models for Normandy Firefight, Bolt Action, Chain of Command and Battlegroup and enjoy them all in their own right. I own but haven’t played IABSM so must get it onto the table at some point to see if it’s my cup of tea.

How is your ‘baddie’ painting going?

BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on January 08, 2021, 04:31:31 PM: Quote from: frank xerox on January 07, 2021, 10:12:56 PM
Those nappies won't change themselves! :D

Yeah, they don't help with painting :D

Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on January 08, 2021, 12:48:33 AM
How is your ‘baddie’ painting going?

BALM

I stuck a bit with the baddies, need to get a moment of time to sit down and paint them, we will see after the weekend. I started painting Stug and Sdkfz 251. We will see after the weekend.

I would definitely recommend IABSM, great game.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on January 11, 2021, 01:21:48 PM: A wee updated.

I manage paint first NCO for my Brits, he still needs a base finished, but it is progress :)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/FoW-Brit-NCO.jpg)
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: bluewillow on January 12, 2021, 10:00:32 AM: Good start, Normandy is a focus for me this year, a few more batns of infantry and more tanks for allied predominately.

Cheers
Matt
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on January 14, 2021, 08:53:51 AM: Yes, Normandy is a good starting point for such projects. Plenty of bits to choose from.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on January 19, 2021, 02:39:33 PM: Progress so far. Well not a lot, but I decided to clear a bit my painting desk from stuff I started.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Churchill-plus-nco-battlefront.jpg)

NCO is ready to lead a squad or to be used as a single mini for casualties. Churchill Mk III (if I'm not mistaken) will still be in service by summer 1944 if my research is correct. Altho don't quote me on that :)

Till next time!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Ceeteegee on January 19, 2021, 08:25:31 PM: The latest video from the Tank Museum is of their rare as Hen's teeth Churchill III. The one and only Mr David Fletcher discusses the turret, track guards and main gun. Tread Heaven!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on January 20, 2021, 02:09:25 PM: Quote from: Ceeteegee on January 19, 2021, 08:25:31 PM
The latest video from the Tank Museum is of their rare as Hen's teeth Churchill III. The one and only Mr David Fletcher discusses the turret, track guards and main gun. Tread Heaven!
Oh, I missed that one! Will need to catch up ASAP :D
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on March 26, 2021, 02:46:04 PM: I was in the realm of dwarfs and other magic creatures for the last few weeks, so not a lot of WW2 painting was done during that period. But after a recent chat with a friend about some gaming ideas (I blame you frank xerox of that! :D), I got the kick to get back on track.

So latest progress, Stug III got some wash application. It was the first time I used enamel wash, and I'm quite positive about this experience.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Stug-WIP-1.jpg)

Depending on the tactical situation, I hope to finish Stug this weekend.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on March 31, 2021, 12:35:50 PM: Not the most astonishing progress, but it is still better than nothing.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Stug-WIP-2.jpg)

I need to tidy up tracks and road wheels. Then paint some details, and it will be ready for duty :)
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on March 31, 2021, 10:29:10 PM: Looking good. I do like a stug, straightforward and practical. I’m glad to see you’re achieving things, I find even a little, tangible progress always helps my overall motivation and hobby momentum. Keep up the good work.

BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: frank xerox on April 01, 2021, 11:11:10 AM: Looks good and there’s not enough stugs around, Jpz 4s and hetzers but not enough love for the humble Stug
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on April 01, 2021, 11:57:24 AM: Thanks, lads! I feel that there should be more Stug III on the tables. I will need to get a few more at some point, but I'm also tempted with Pazner III N as a support option:D

Yes! I did find that even 15-20 minutes every day can make a huge difference.

I started painting the first squad of Grenadiers, mostly to get the feel of colours and decide how

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/grenadiers-wip-earlystage.jpg)

Sorry for the photo quality :). Bases are temporary only as it was part of basing experiment. I will stick to 25x25mm bases for basic infantry.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on July 19, 2021, 11:31:59 AM: A bit distracted with all the fantasy minis again. But I'm as always I'm jumping from one topic to the other. Instead of finishing the germans, I when for some brits :)

First HMG, then PIAT team and few spare minis and the British platoon (or Polish in the West?) will be ready.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/HMG-wip.jpg)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/HMG-wip-2.jpg)

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: frank xerox on July 19, 2021, 11:44:01 PM: Those are bloody good faces!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on July 20, 2021, 08:27:22 AM: Quote from: frank xerox on July 19, 2021, 11:44:01 PM
Those are bloody good faces!

Thanks! I was planning to do some highlights on them :D
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: mluther on July 20, 2021, 04:49:13 PM: Another vote for IABSM for company level gaming. CoC for platoon level.
Mark
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Storm-the-front on July 20, 2021, 10:01:16 PM: Nice progress. Who makes those German figures? Are they Skytrex or Forged in Battle?
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on July 21, 2021, 03:10:04 PM: Yes, I think I will focus on those two titles. I do have the idea of doing my own set of rules (I already have some draft versions) but everytime I sit down, look at IABSM and CoC and deceid there is no point. I already have two sets I like :D
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on July 26, 2021, 02:39:52 PM: "Kowalski! I think I see a Szkop over there. Let's give him a warm welcome!"

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/BF-Brits-2.jpg)

The HMG is now finished.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on July 26, 2021, 07:57:29 PM: Great work Seb, good to see you’re making progress. Nothing wrong with keeping a few plates spinning, I find having a couple of different projects going at once means I can swap and change to help battle creative block whilst still making some hobby progress (In theory at least lol).

BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy
Post by: Seb on July 27, 2021, 09:21:34 AM: Thanks, BALM!

Yes, I do try to focus on few projects, as I often end up with way too many bits on my desk. And this can be daunting.

Next are the PAIT team and 2" mortar, plus some individual minis. So it should give a full playable platoon for CoC.

Quote from: Storm-the-front on July 20, 2021, 10:01:16 PM
Nice progress. Who makes those German figures? Are they Skytrex or Forged in Battle?
I overlooked your question. Germans are Skytrex.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on October 07, 2021, 03:42:40 PM: Holidays are after. I did even took some minis with me to paint, but not a lot of progress. And as it always happens, instead of focusing on old projects, I got distracted.

So instead of creating another topic, I thought I would update this a bit.

So it is not more "15mm... Road to Normandy..." it is now "15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour" :D

From now on, this will be my place to share progress on both 15mm and 20mm WW2 bits. I hope you don't mind :)

So after a rather good game of CoC, a friend of mine gave me this little fella, 1/72 scale Hasegawa Tiger I Ausf. E. This is the whole single reason for the distraction (or that's what I'm saying to myself)

I started building it, progress so far:

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/tiger-wip.jpg)

A nice trick I learned from the Tamiya set I got. A little extra weight gives a more nice feel when you handle the models, so I glued a few extra metal shields.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/tiger-balast.jpg)

Now will be the fun part of assembling the suspension... but I got a crazy idea of painting it on sprue first and then assemble it to make my painting a bit easier... that's the theory.

Till next time!

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on October 07, 2021, 09:52:53 PM: That’s a very nice little model and I totally understand the draw of a good, more complex model kit. I can forgive you for turning to the dark side as long as it’s only a holiday. I love 15mm and only 15mm! (Looks at his beloved 6mm WW2 GHQ and Adler collection in progress, closes the browser window with prospective 3mm WW2 purchases flagged on it so I have a ‘travel version’……). Looking forwards to seeing your progress with the tracks.

BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on October 08, 2021, 03:37:13 PM: Thanks!

Yeah, 15mm is cool, but 1/72 has these extra details. I enjoy building them, even if it is a Tiger or Panther suspension. lol

Shame there are not 1:100 Tamiya tanks models or similar :D

I should finish building the cat this evening, and then I can start painting it.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on October 11, 2021, 11:48:09 AM: 20mm (1/72) - Tiger I Aufs E progress

After finishing building the tank, I managed to put the first layers of paint on.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Tiger-WIP-1.jpg)

I decide to go for s.Pz.Abt.504 during in Sicily 1943. This way, I can (with a bit of stretch here and there) go for Tunis or Italy campaign if I want.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on October 11, 2021, 01:02:55 PM: Great minds old chap, great minds. I chose Tunisia (slowly working on both sides and scenery) because it was different to Normandy or the miserable East and would hopefully allow me to use the same mat and some scenery in Italy as well should I feel the urge. The only thing that would draw me to 20mm if I had to start again is the sheer amount of available plastic modelling kits that are suitable. That little kitty is looking nice.

BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on December 06, 2021, 04:15:35 PM: It went a bit quiet on the Sicilian front. But there is a wee bit of progress.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Tiger-172.jpg)

Shading is done; now it's time to tidy up and add highlights, details and decals. Oh, and put the suspension :)

Till the next time,

Cheers,
Sebastian
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on December 06, 2021, 05:43:27 PM: It’s looking great. Any movement: forwards, backwards or in circles is still progress old chap! :D I love a nice model kit and have to ignore traditional airfix style and other wargaming scales kits when seen or I’d be inundated with vehicles in odd scales without purpose!

Andrew
BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on December 15, 2021, 12:27:27 PM: Aye, at least something is getting painted. As the old military mantra goes, it will be all done before Christmas :)
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on December 17, 2021, 01:54:49 PM: A bit more progress on tidying up after shading.

The turret needs a bit more work, but I'm almost there
(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Tiger-turret.jpg)

Tracks are now finished in terms of painting, at least.
(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Tiger-tracks.jpg)

The biggest obstacle is the Revell Afrika Braun paint... lovely colour, and thanks to a pretty thin consistency, it is very smooth when applied with a brush. But the downside of it is that many layers are needed for a good cover.

With the weekend ahead and an old FoW 15mm Panther on my desk, it can be a tough task to finish the Tiger :D
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on December 21, 2021, 04:16:49 PM: Progress affter weekend. Not the best pics, but they were taken in the evening.

1/72 Tiger is getting there:
(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Tiger-wip3.jpg)

Old Battlefront 15mm Panther. I thought about checking some alternative colours and seeing how an AP Soft Tone will work on it.
(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Panther-wip1.jpg)

So far, so good.

Cheers,
Sebastian
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on January 24, 2022, 02:40:07 PM: A bit of progress on the Sicilian front. At least in terms of money spent on toys.

Repainting Tiger after the wash is a bit chore, so I switch to doing other things as a break. So I started to do my US troops for the Sicilian summer of '43.

First, UM M4A1 Sherman. I will be honest, if one is not interested in building scale models, do not ever bother in getting this one. It will simply drive you mad. Overall it is a very nice kit. There are a few bits that are not perfectly matching. So a bit of work is needed. Plus, as one could expect, there are some really, but I mean really small parts, that are tricky to stick to the model.

I can't say how accurate it is, but it looks like a decent job for me, altho some reviews were a bit critical about tracks width... Beyond my knowledge so can't comment on that.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/UM-ShermanM4A1.jpg)

For infantry, I dig up some Italeri and PSC minis. The Italeri set is great, with amazing details, sadly no "shooting" poses. The PSC is a good set, but I would say it is a bit less sharp in detail. I primed the first batch some time ago, so it should be easier to batch paint them.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/US-infantry-wip.jpg)

Till, next time.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on June 14, 2022, 12:59:28 PM: Wow, six-month since I last time updated this topic.

Anyway, there was some work done. With the limited time, I focused more on painting than posting.

Because focusing on one topic is too hard, I'm in a state where I'm painting ww2 mins in 15mm, 20mm, and some 28mm... because what not?

The second batch of US GIs (20mm) after I went a bit heavy-handed on the first one with matt varnish:

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/0k4zsxdjbvojh81/us-gi-wip%2Bpnz%20in1-48.jpg?raw=1)

Tiger - repairing the wash is a bit of paint in the back, so I'm planning re-paint it and use enamel wash.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/mh7ybk5y9pyl7jk/tiger-wip.jpg?raw=1)

Sdkfz 251 - I was a bit experimenting yesterday. After noticing that Tamyia panel liner can react with plastic, I decided to follow the path of the scale modellers. I dig up the bottle of white spirit, put a layer of gloss varnish (I have a full can of it as I bought the wrong one last year) and give it a go.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/1b1ievmbunuy3db/sdkfz251-wip.jpg?raw=1)

I thought it would be a lof fuss, but it's not as bad. And to be honest, the ability to tidy up the wash, especially on flat surfaces, is convenient.

15mm Fallschirmjagers - Old Battlefront's Luftlandesturm Platoon. Crete 1941 is the aim... at some point :D
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/3an800r1dxz06in/BF-fall.JPG?raw=1)

So, yeah, a bit of work done. I'm trying to focus on the 20mm US GIs as I'm going to have a game of CoC next month - huzzah!.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on June 14, 2022, 03:04:46 PM: I do love a fallschirmjaeger force, my late war (Normandy) chaps are reheaded, converted or added to and based, but painting the range and variety of camouflage patterns I had planned (and sheer number of chaps) panicked me slightly and I started working on other forces which were easier. I must return to them.

Looking at your Tiger it makes me think I have a few models that I’ve painted numerous times. It helps me build confidence, try out techniques and often just find my painting groove. It’s especially helpful as I’m usually quite attached to my planned project models so having ones I’m not worried about that I can mess with can help me beat my creative block (sometimes lol). The panel lining you’ve done is spot on, subtle but effective. I was slightly hesitant when starting to use scale modelling techniques and materials like panel liners, filters, pigments and the like but my experiences so far have all been good and you can get some great effects. The hardest thing is the balance between actually being able to see the intended result and not overdoing it (at which point it looks awful instantaneously to my eyes).

Envious that you’re going to get to play soon, please take photos so I can continue to live vicariously through others work.

Keep up the good work,

Andrew
BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on June 15, 2022, 12:10:07 PM: Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on June 14, 2022, 03:04:46 PM
I do love a fallschirmjaeger force, my late war (Normandy) chaps are reheaded, converted or added to and based, but painting the range and variety of camouflage patterns I had planned (and sheer number of chaps) panicked me slightly and I started working on other forces which were easier. I must return to them.

I do have a set of 1/72 Italeri fallschirmjägers in tropical uniforms. I will start work on them after I finish the GI, as I like to have two opposing forces. But this is one of the drives behind my Sicilian project, the variety of units and equipment used during the Husky.

Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on June 14, 2022, 03:04:46 PM

Looking at your Tiger it makes me think I have a few models that I’ve painted numerous times. It helps me build confidence, try out techniques and often just find my painting groove. It’s especially helpful as I’m usually quite attached to my planned project models so having ones I’m not worried about that I can mess with can help me beat my creative block (sometimes lol). The panel lining you’ve done is spot on, subtle but effective. I was slightly hesitant when starting to use scale modelling techniques and materials like panel liners, filters, pigments and the like but my experiences so far have all been good and you can get some great effects. The hardest thing is the balance between actually being able to see the intended result and not overdoing it (at which point it looks awful instantaneously to my eyes).

Yeah, there is a lot of interesting stuff there. But I do understand you. I try to keep my "workshop" simple. It is overwhelming when you sometime see what folks can do or that one must have 100 types of super glue... So, some time ago, I cut the number of tutorials/youtube and similar stuff to a minimum (I find it overwhelming and often demotivating) and simply decided to enjoy my hobby.

That said, the enamel washes are ace! As they allowed me to work on the model in small steps that stretch over a few days/weeks, as my hobby time is very limited 😂

I will try to remember and post some pics!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on October 17, 2022, 08:37:36 AM: Summer is over, and so far, my progress stalled like Barbarossa in 1941 :D

But there is a bit of work, mostly test pieces, as I trying to find a way to paint different camo in a 15mm scale. Here are two tests:

15mm baddie from FiB:

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/6gwbuuze7huu07a/FiB-Baddie-officer-wip.jpg?dl=1)

And here is the 15mm Para (also from FiB)

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/2w0vivz90f9snto/Para-british.jpg?dl=1)

The last one is one of the summer projects I started. The classic DAK set by Airfix. I must say I love this set. Amazing minis with great poses, and it was all done in the 70s. I don't think there are many sets that still look so fresh after 50 years.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/9o1zyse32r693i8/DAK-Airfix172.jpg?dl=1)

Now, let's see if I manage to paint more this month :)

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on October 18, 2022, 11:30:36 PM: Hmm for some reason I can’t see any pictures but sometimes iPads are quite temperamental so it may well be me.

BALM
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on October 22, 2022, 07:14:19 PM: Well, luckily, I can see the pics. And they look pretty darn good to me.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on February 13, 2023, 11:57:24 AM: I was sure I did answer the comments but apparently not. So thanks for the good words :)

I must admit that the lack of a regular opponent for Chain of Command or IABSM means my focus is shifting from 15mm to 28mm and then to 20mm :D

But, after another bit of hiatus, I got some progress to report. This time on my 20mm DAK force as I managed to complete another form of the ace old Airfix set.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Airfix-DAK.jpg)

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: frank xerox on February 13, 2023, 02:22:05 PM: That’s quite a detour 😆
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on February 13, 2023, 08:38:48 PM: Detour, schmetour, they look good! :D
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on February 13, 2023, 10:02:58 PM: You’re still moving which is progress in anyone’s books! lol

I like your DAK colour palette, especially the tone of the washed out/sun bleached veteran chap - spot on.

Balm
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on February 14, 2023, 10:09:59 AM: Quote from: frank xerox on February 13, 2023, 02:22:05 PM
That’s quite a detour 😆

Quote from: CapnJim on February 13, 2023, 08:38:48 PM
Detour, schmetour, they look good! :D

Hahaha, I will stick to that, and I'm proud of myself as I have not included any of the 28mm ww2 stuff from paint desk. :D

Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on February 13, 2023, 10:02:58 PM
You’re still moving which is progress in anyone’s books! lol

I like your DAK colour palette, especially the tone of the washed out/sun bleached veteran chap - spot on.

Balm

I'm pleased with how they appeared. I read about the colours of uniforms, and apparently, they did fade quickly, so they all look a bit like a motley crew in the end. So it makes painting a bit easier and less monotonous.

And I just noticed that I did not paint the officer's binoculars lol

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on February 27, 2023, 01:43:09 PM: A second update in one month?! Madness :D

Anyway, my first squad of DAK lads is now finished. Two more to go.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Airfix-DAK-Squad-1-finished.jpg)

But it looks like my focus will be shifting to US GIs, as there are some plans for a game based in Normandy later this summer :)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/PSC-US-LAF.jpg)

I started with the first of the BAR teams to get my head around it and see how to paint those lads, as this is my third attempt. But it looks like it should work out better this time.

Cheers,
Seb

PS I dunno why, but I got the impression that I will need more Shermans...
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: gweirda on February 27, 2023, 02:47:49 PM: "...I got the impression that I will need more Shermans..."

For "29, Let's Go!" ? ...yup...especially -if you fare as well as I did- to use as wrecks!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: frank xerox on February 27, 2023, 07:05:08 PM: Good looking cannon fodder. But you’re gonna need John Wayne not just more Shermans! lol
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on February 28, 2023, 01:28:26 PM: Quote from: frank xerox on February 27, 2023, 07:05:08 PM
Good looking cannon fodder. But you’re gonna need John Wayne not just more Shermans! lol

I will stick to Shermans, it's hard to find a good 20mm John Wayne minis :)
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on March 13, 2023, 10:57:57 AM: More from the painting desk. The BAR team is now ready, plus a few extra minis to be used as commanders.

(https://www.dropbox.com/s/fo27eso7so23mvs/US-GI-PSC%2BItaleri.jpg?dl=1)

I have managed to remove the frosting effect on the minis caused by matt varnish :D. Huzzah! That should save me a bit of time, as I have a batch of minis that have suffered from it.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on March 13, 2023, 05:32:01 PM: (Whilst I can’t see the picture for some reason) I’m interested to know what method you used to rescue your frosty figures?

Thanks
Balm
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on March 20, 2023, 11:40:42 AM: How about now? Maybe the problem is with my hosting.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/US-GI-PSCItaleri.jpg)

About the frosty minis - I applied a thin layer of MP Miniature Paints Matt Varnish. I'm sure any other matt varnish will do the same. I will try to take some extra pics later this week, as I hope to paint more of the GIs.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: LouieN on March 20, 2023, 04:37:37 PM: Excellent Yanks!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: frank xerox on March 20, 2023, 11:40:38 PM: Looking good!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on March 21, 2023, 01:22:55 PM: Quote from: LouieN on March 20, 2023, 04:37:37 PM
Excellent Yanks!
Quote from: LouieN on March 20, 2023, 04:37:37 PM
Excellent Yanks!

Thanks, lads!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on March 28, 2023, 12:50:26 PM: //hi guys,

Another batch of US GIs is on its way, and as promised, I took some pics of the frost removal process.

Here are poor lads with a very severe frosting effect.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/us-gi-frost.jpg)

The next step is to apply mat varnish. I do this by brush as it helps to control the process and reach some odd places. It's worth doing it in a few attempts to avoid thick layers.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/us-gi-frost-varnish.jpg)

And here is the finished outcome. Ain't a bad result.
(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/us-gi-frost-varnish-dry.jpg)

Time to put some licks of paint here and there, and those lads will be ready to storm Normandy's beaches 8)

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on March 29, 2023, 11:47:35 AM: Brilliant sir! You’ve done a great job on those yanks, the uniform colour choice is really good. I’m very impressed with your “frosting removal” method, certainly the best remedy I’ve seen so far.

Thank you for posting, looking forward to seeing what you do next (for me WW2 gaming has become more of a happy amble in a rough direction than following a clear path - the opposite of “as a crow flies”; maybe more like “as the spaniel runs” - to my objective. I am however enjoying the journey).

Keep up the good work,
Balm
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on March 31, 2023, 02:18:57 PM: Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on March 29, 2023, 11:47:35 AM
Brilliant sir! You’ve done a great job on those yanks, the uniform colour choice is really good. I’m very impressed with your “frosting removal” method, certainly the best remedy I’ve seen so far.

Thanks!

Yes, it's maybe not the perfect solution, but it is a solution that works :D

Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on March 29, 2023, 11:47:35 AM

Thank you for posting, looking forward to seeing what you do next (for me WW2 gaming has become more of a happy amble in a rough direction than following a clear path - the opposite of “as a crow flies”; maybe more like “as the spaniel runs” - to my objective. I am however enjoying the journey).

I just got a general direction, well, sort of. I recently decided just to paint what I have and not to bother too much. The US is getting a bit more focus because of the planned game later this year. Other than that, I'm just bouncing from one scale and topic to another lol

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: frank xerox on April 01, 2023, 11:16:52 AM: Those are looking bloody good!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on April 14, 2023, 10:40:54 AM: Thanks, Frank!

A bit of progress, mostly on my loose collection of tanks.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Armour-park.jpg)

The Panzer III needs a layer of matt varnish, and after that, tracks need to be finished, and it is ready to rumble the eastern front.

Panther is now awaiting some washes, I'm planning to use it for the Italian campaign, and some of them were painted only in one colour (and that's the version I will stick to). Yes, it should have Zimmerit on it, but... let's just keep things simple.

The latest addition is the t-34, which still needs some work on it. And the poor Sherman had an unhappy incident with over-diluted paint... that left some odd stains on the frontal glacis so that it will need some repairing.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on April 24, 2023, 01:05:03 PM: Guess what? More progress! lol
It's not surprising, as they literally need just some final touches.

So, the Panzer III is ready. In the meantime, I dig up my Tiger. Da Tiger was a bit of a nightmare as I needed to repaint the flat surfaces after wash, so I gave up and decided that it was enough. Decals are a bit of my creative license and are not 100% accurate, but they should follow the general numbering of the 2nd company of the s.Pz.Abt.504 in Sicyli.
Maybe not the best paint job ever, but it counts forward to the "finished" column.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tiger-and-pnzIII.jpg)

Sherman is now nice and shiny and needs only tidying on the wash and some work on the tracks. After that, a layer of mat varnish and it will be ready to roll! And as some curse, this set also had a bit of a problem with decals. According to the manufacturer, the decals included should include markings for the 2nd Armour Division in Sicily in 1943. And that was the reason why I chose the set, but it looks like there was some mistake, and I received different decals...

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/sherman-um-shiny.jpg)

That leads me to the point when I should start painting those US GIs if I wish to have them done for a game this summer.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on May 08, 2023, 01:18:08 PM: Looks like this topic is changed into some tanks exclusive topic :D
But I promise that the next update will include some infantry.

In the meantime, here is the latest finished model, an old 1/72nd Esci/Ertl Pz.Kpfw. V Panther Ausf. A.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/esci-8363-panther-1.jpg)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/esci-8363-panther-2.jpg)

Till next time!

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: LouieN on May 20, 2023, 03:14:18 AM: Good armor.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on May 21, 2023, 07:32:15 PM: Quote from: Seb on May 08, 2023, 01:18:08 PM
Looks like this topic is changed into some tanks exclusive topic :D

I'm a former tanker - so that's OK with me... :D

And your tanks look good!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on June 05, 2023, 02:14:58 PM: Quote from: CapnJim on May 21, 2023, 07:32:15 PM
I'm a former tanker - so that's OK with me... :D

And your tanks look good!

Hahaha, glad to hear that!

Here is a quick update.

As promised, this update includes some minis; the first squad for the US platoon is finished, well, sort of.
As I'm way behind schedule to have those lads finished for the game in July, I decided to stick to basics to catch up. So block painting, wash and finishing bases so they are ready to go. And the plan is to get back to them later... :D

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/20230605_145920-scaled.jpg)

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: frank xerox on June 05, 2023, 10:51:51 PM: Keep churning them out, they’re looking good, rush jobs or not!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on June 06, 2023, 05:39:14 PM: They certainly will do the trick for a game. Well done!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on June 10, 2023, 09:07:38 AM: Quote from: Seb on June 05, 2023, 02:14:58 PM
……so they are ready to go. And the plan is to get back to them later... :D

They are looking good. I know it’s a classic wargaming excuse/explanation/argument but it does work. I painted my German Heer with just this intent and once I’d played a couple of games with them (I don’t mind playing unpainted but it’s just not the same) I found I returned easily to highlighting and detailing/improving them.

Keep up the good work,

Balm
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on June 12, 2023, 12:45:30 PM: Thanks, lads.

Progress so far :)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/platoon-wip1.jpg)

I'm almost there; just, what, nine minis left. After that, I will try to add some support options. MMG and mortar for a start.

I got a bit of a hobby kick with those guys.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on June 26, 2023, 11:16:55 AM: Almost there, just a few bases to finish, and my platoon of US GIs is ready to liberate Normandy.
Quite a productive weekend, and I even manage to get some work on my DAK and the upcoming Soviet Scouts, Huzzah!

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/busy-weekend.jpg)

I still need to paint an MMG team, but it looks like I will be doing this when visiting family aboard. Anyway, it will be a PVA and sand session this evening, and I hope to take a shot of the whole platoon together.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on July 03, 2023, 12:34:20 PM: And the platoon is ready to librate NW Europe :D

They are not the best paint job in the world, but they are finished and ready for the game, and that's what counts.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/1-72nd-US-troops.jpg)

I manage to finish another 4 DAK minis from the old Airfix set.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/DAK-airfix.jpg)

As I'm on an annual summer trip to visit family, so don't expect much of minis painted here for the next few weeks, but I do work on another tank :D

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on July 03, 2023, 01:41:04 PM: Awesome stuff sir! The slightly faded DAK uniforms are excellent.

Have a great holiday,

Balm
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on September 15, 2023, 12:43:45 PM: So, summer is over, and the pile got bigger :D

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/pile.jpg)

But to be fair, I managed to finish some stuff. For example, the Soviet Scouts (https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=142641.0), but that's work...

Anyway, here is the first model from the pile that is getting almost finished.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Crusader-wip.jpg)
Crusader Mk.II by IGB getting some enamel wash treatment

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Crusader-wip-2.jpg)
And here is the same Crusader after tidying up a bit

It looks like I will need some Brits in shorts at some point to go along the Crusader. The Grille and Stug are already under the sample, but both models are a bit painful in the back to build. Stug IV has some slightly bent frames, so it needed some extra care to get it right, and Grille will be a rider as the models has a fair chunk of flash all around the parts.

I should probably start working on some 15mm Germans for a game of IABSM next year... but it seems that 20mm will be on the menu for a few more weeks.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on October 02, 2023, 12:54:15 PM: There's not a lot of progress to report, but I got a bit of time and got back to the 15mm stuff.

Another attempt to paint the camo on a 15mm half-track.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/halftrack.jpg)

I think I have a better idea now of how to do it, but I need to make a few more attempts, and the 20mm Stug IV will be the victim of the following test :D

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on December 11, 2023, 01:49:47 PM: Another two months passed...

The 15mm front is calm and quiet lately, as I'm trying to clear the workbench a bit before I start painting a company of 15mm Germans or any other 15mm minis, for that matter.

So, the latest from the front lines of 20mm models. This time, it is a T-34/76 mod.1943 by Eastern Express. It spent some time in a semi-built state, and the tracks were a horror to assemble, but it was finally finished.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/t-34-76-1941-front-side-main.jpg)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/t-34-76-1941.jpg)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/t-34-76-1941-front.jpg)

That's all for now. It's time to get moving with the 15mm. Maybe I will start with finishing the Brits ???

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on December 11, 2023, 09:36:32 PM: Great stuff sir. Im pleased you’re still ticking along. I’m currently trying (and not succeeding) to build up my painting mojo with random bits and bobs before I go back and start plugging at my WW2 platoons again. I thought Sci-fi might help then stalled when painting a platoon of Stormtroopers (rubbish GW white paints now switched to pro acryl) which was an optimistic but bad choice lol

Looking forwards to seeing your 15’s (but enjoying your run up as well).

Andrew
BeneathALeadMountain
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on December 12, 2023, 02:34:28 PM: Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on December 11, 2023, 09:36:32 PM
Great stuff sir. Im pleased you’re still ticking along. I’m currently trying (and not succeeding) to build up my painting mojo with random bits and bobs before I go back and start plugging at my WW2 platoons again. I thought Sci-fi might help then stalled when painting a platoon of Stormtroopers (rubbish GW white paints now switched to pro acryl) which was an optimistic but bad choice lol

Looking forwards to seeing your 15’s (but enjoying your run up as well).

Andrew
BeneathALeadMountain

Thanks, man!
Yes, I got dragged away all the time by some fantasy/SF and 28mm WW2 (and the 1/48 scale tanks for it...). But with SF/Fantasy being a day job, I find historicals a pleasant refuge to relax and enjoy my hobby. That said, not having a regular opponent for CoC/IABSM means I'm jumping from one project to another lol. And this morning, I found out that I still have three 1/72nd models waiting to be finished painting.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on December 16, 2023, 10:03:22 PM: Still lookin' good!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on January 08, 2024, 12:38:35 PM: First post in the new year! And I can report some first finished models this year!
Huzzah!

And surprise, surprise, I managed to do some work on 15mm stuff :D

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/PSC-brits.jpg)

I think I found the easiest and the quickest way to paint those wee tea-loving lads. I'm still experimenting with the webbing colours.

I'm also painting another batch of my 1/72 Airfix DAK (boy, I love those models), and I have two more 1/72 AFVs (Stug IV and another Sherman) on my workbench. We will see if I manage to finish them this month :D.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: frank xerox on January 08, 2024, 06:27:16 PM: Oh those are nice!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on January 08, 2024, 06:34:27 PM: Great work sir! Off to a good start :D

Andrew
BeneathALeadMountain
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: LouieN on January 08, 2024, 09:18:55 PM: They came out great.
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on January 13, 2024, 06:57:17 PM: Thay do indeed look good!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on January 22, 2024, 12:56:01 PM: Thanks lads!

SHOCK! A bit more progress, and even more shocking, it is progress on both fronts this time.

First, the 15mm

Once the basic colour scheme is set up, they are pretty straightforward and quick to paint. I still did not decide about basing them. But I think I will go for multi-basing them and use them for IABSM or 'O' Group. But there is still the temptation of CoC and single bases. We will see :D

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/PSC-15mm-brits-221024.jpg)

After this batch, I plan to hit the 15mm British Paras, intending to build both sides for Kampfgruppe von Luck PSC and some action around Arhnem.

Glorious 20mm

Well, I'm almost finished with the basic DAK platoon. The last batch of minis are now on the workbench. I added another colour to the mix for uniforms to experiment and see how they would look.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Airfix-more-DAK.jpg)

Stug IV - It's waiting for a wash, but due to the freezing weather, I needed to postpone any work, as I don't want to spray varnish at below-zero temperature. But the weather is getting warmer, so fingers crossed. I also need to finish the insides of the schurzen, but that should not take too long.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Revell-Stug-IV-scaled.jpg)

Till next time :)

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on January 23, 2024, 01:15:50 AM: More good progress - well done!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on February 05, 2024, 02:35:42 PM: And another batch of 15mm Brits is now done.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/PSC-brits-another-batch.jpg)

I'm planning to finish the remaining 20mm DAK later this week, along with a few last tanks, so who knows, maybe I will have two updates in one week :D

That said, I have a weird suspicion that I will get distracted soon by some 28mm minis. Again.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: BeneathALeadMountain on February 05, 2024, 03:42:55 PM: They look great Seb. I need to finish my British platoon (3/4s done) but have totally lost my painting mojo - the moment we get some dry (ish) and warm (ish) weather I can base coat the last few supports and try and force myself into some kind of progress. Seeing yours really help motivate me as I’m getting slightly tired of Germans vs Americans/Russians.

Looking forwards to seeing your Paras (especially as I have KGVL and its cobbled tanks sat in my painting ~~queue~~ holding pattern). I can recommend Von Luck’s memoir/book for an interesting view on everything they did (and an interesting man).

Oh and if you fancy getting the KG Von Luck vehicles Battlefront are releasing plastic versions so you’ll have nice options available in 15mm soon(ish).

Keep up the good work,

Andrew
BeneathALeadMountain
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: CapnJim on February 05, 2024, 07:08:56 PM: I like those. I see you went with the individual bases...
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on February 06, 2024, 02:31:11 PM: Thanks!

I hope you get going with your mojo back soon. I often switch form one scale/topic (as one can see in this topic).

Quote from: BeneathALeadMountain on February 05, 2024, 03:42:55 PM
Looking forwards to seeing your Paras (especially as I have KGVL and its cobbled tanks sat in my painting ~~queue~~ holding pattern). I can recommend Von Luck’s memoir/book for an interesting view on everything they did (and an interesting man).

Yeah, I got my paras with KGVL in mind and some Market-Garden games. I believe Lardies are working on a CoC supplement to cover it.

I read von Luck's memoir many, many moons ago. I'm currently re-reading a book about Monte Cassino by Matthew Parker. But I will probably switch to "A Bridge Too Far" when I start working on the paras. It seems odd, but I read a lot about Market Garden but never read "A Bridge Too Far" :D.

Quote from: CapnJim on February 05, 2024, 07:08:56 PM
I like those. I see you went with the individual bases...
Thanks. Yeah, I still can't decide, but my current working plan is to do one "single bases" platoon and two multi-based ones, so I have the force to be used for CoC and IABSM/O Group. At least that's the plan for now, but don't quote me on that. D.

I hope to hit the remaining DAK later this evening, so fingers crossed :D.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour
Post by: Seb on February 12, 2024, 02:49:02 PM: Not much work was done over the weekend, as I was under the weather for most of it. But the first batch of 15mm paras are now on bases and are waiting to be primed.

On the 20mm front, however, I can report a big success, as I finished the last batch of the Airfix DAK minis. I will need to look for some support options for them and maybe take a better shot at the whole lot.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Airfix-dak.png)

I'm really itching for some tanks to build, but I think I'll get my act together and finish some of the models I've started before going on the shopping spree :D.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 12/02/24 - 20mm DAK Update
Post by: CapnJim on February 12, 2024, 06:16:40 PM: You sure do those figures justice. Nicely done!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 12/02/24 - 20mm DAK Update
Post by: frank xerox on February 13, 2024, 01:21:07 PM: Yeah those have turned out nice - I like the mix of newer & more sun bleached clothes, very effective
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 12/02/24 - 20mm DAK Update
Post by: Seb on February 13, 2024, 02:41:35 PM: Thanks guys!

Yep, I'm pleased with them myself.

In the meantime, I managed to prepare the first squad of 15mm British paras for painting.
(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/20240213_152654-scaled.jpg)

But I also dug up my 20mm German paras, and there are always some 28mm minis around, so we will see how it goes.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 12/02/24 - 20mm DAK Update
Post by: Seb on February 20, 2024, 02:34:55 PM: Well, it looks like I'm on fire :D

Another week passed, and I did manage to get some stuff done.

15mm Paras

Those are coming out nicely. At first, I was a bit reluctant, as I was concerned about the details, but after priming them mat black, all the details popped up nicely, so I'm looking forward to finishing those lads.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/FiB-Paras-wip.jpg)

20mm AFV
On the armoured front, I'm on top of the stuff. Just fur models left to finish.
(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Armour-wip.jpg)

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 20/02/24 - 15mm Paras Update
Post by: Seb on February 26, 2024, 02:30:45 PM: Here we go again!

And the first batch of 15mm UK Paras are done! :D
They were a bit tricky to photograph, so I will need to find a better way to do so.

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Rifle-section.jpg)

Rifle Team

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Bren-section.jpg)

Bren Team

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Mortar.jpg)
Mortar Team

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/All-parras.jpg)

The full section plus the basic support. It is not the best photo, I know; sorry about that.

At this rate, I may finish painting the whole platoon this year. That would be mad lol

Till next time,

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 26/02/24 - More 15mm Paras
Post by: frank xerox on February 29, 2024, 09:20:46 PM: They look great!
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 26/02/24 - More 15mm Paras
Post by: CapnJim on March 04, 2024, 05:01:54 PM: Indeed they do...
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 26/02/24 - More 15mm Paras
Post by: Seb on March 08, 2024, 01:01:56 PM: Thanks lads!
For some strange reason, I did not get the notification.

Anyway, here is another update.

This time 1/72(20mm). The Stug IV and Half-track are now finished. Sadly, when I was applying mat varnish, I got a bit of frosting on them. I'm still working on removing it, as it is a slow process. But I think I now know what is causing it (aside from me being a bit heavy-handed with the spray can :D)

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/stug-plus-sdkfz.png)

I'm currently painting some 28mm, but I plan to get back to 15mm and 20mm realm soon.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 08/03/24 - 20mm Stug IV update
Post by: Adler on March 10, 2024, 06:59:08 AM: Very nice.
Warming up cans in hot water helps a lot, just pop em in a bowl of hot water ( from the tap) for 10 mins before spraying, dry carefully. Makes a big difference to the atomisation.
I suppose I have to put the 'dont micro wave your poodle clause' in, DO NOT heat in a saucepan or the like, just dunked in hot water from the tap/off boil kettle water.
L
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 08/03/24 - 20mm Stug IV update
Post by: Seb on March 11, 2024, 02:22:17 PM: Thanks, Leon!

Yeah, I will need to try that. It's odd that I have this problem only with Vallejo Matt Varnish; the usual cheap varnish I use is always okay.

Quote from: Adler on March 10, 2024, 06:59:08 AM
I suppose I have to put the 'dont micro wave your poodle clause' in, DO NOT heat in a saucepan or the like, just dunked in hot water from the tap/off boil kettle water.

Hahaha, no worries. But yeah, better safe than sorry.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 08/03/24 - 20mm Stug IV update
Post by: Seb on April 22, 2024, 02:25:38 PM: Time for a small update.

There has not been a lot of progress in the realms of WW2 recently.

I got some old ESCI/Italeri Panzer IV and Sherman, but I plan to use them to test some painting techniques. They are somewhat dated models.

In the meantime, I got some test models of 20mm baddies (PSC/Adler) on which I'm trying to remind myself how I have painted the oak leaf pattern camo... because I did not take notes :D

(https://www.seb-games.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PSC-Adler-wss-wip.jpg)

It is not the best picture, but I will try to take better shots later this week when I do more painting.

Cheers,
Seb
Title: Re: 15mm... Road to Normandy... with a 20mm detour - 22/04/24 - 20mm Baddies WIP
Post by: CapnJim on April 23, 2024, 05:28:09 PM: Those "baddies" look great! Well done...