Lead Adventure Forum

Miniatures Adventure => The Second World War => Topic started by: Digits on November 10, 2022, 12:12:31 PM

Title: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: Digits on November 10, 2022, 12:12:31 PM: So, inevitably, I was always going to get round to collecting minis for North Africa. Fascinated since childhood of this “gentleman’s” conflict played out in what was my back garden (I spent four years in Algeria), and raised on a fair portion of fantastic war films. Though not remotely realistic, I am enjoying the rather stylised Rogue Heroes at the moment too.

This is a little linked with my Western Front project thread here

https://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=126468.0

Anyway, I bought a boxed set of Warlord Afrika Korps a year or so back in anticipation that eventually, my foray into CoC would lead me into the desert.

It seems that time is approaching so I thought I’d start collecting a few bits together and make a start.

There are some lovely minis out there, but I’m very much a fan of the slightly larger (and therefore easier for me to see/ paint) minis, Artizan being my mini of choice. Anyway, I bought a selection. I will have to mix in some Warlord and perhaps a few Black Tree to get the range of pose and support weapons I want, and I’ve also ordered a few vehicles, mainly large staff cars, half tracks, motorcycles, wheeled reconnaissance vehicles and a fuel / water tanker.

My opponents are piecing together what looks more like LRDG type forces so this is really more about small action patrol meetings / hit and gun raids etc so not much room for larger armour though I do have a Pzr III to build.

I’m looking forward to making a little scenery, mainly watering holes, rock piles and dunes etc but it won’t be on the scale of my Western front project.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/C8C1518C-B5D5-4EC1-80EA-6098D9B72D86.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: fred on November 10, 2022, 12:32:39 PM: Good stuff

I happened to pull out the box with my 28mm DAK and 8th Army in last week mainly Perry plastics, built and undercoated, but not much more - we had similar plans to yours, but clearly got distracted by other things!

So looking forward to seeing how this progresses, might kick my own project along. I’m particularly interested to see how CoC works in the low terrain setting of the desert.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Digits on November 10, 2022, 01:29:02 PM: Me too. Saying that, there are many geological features in the northern Sahara. It’s semi arid in most of the north, so there are spare grass lands and scratchy trees in some areas, rocky stone plateaus (hamada), gravel plains (reg) and sand seas with large dunes (ergs). Scarce rainfall and driving winds have created wadis, gorges, rock features etc. there are salt lakes and sunken flat dry lakes and other features. The wadis tend to have scrub and trees in them as they are moisture traps.

Lots to go at I think. Plus you could create little mud house hamlets around oasis pools and palms affording plenty of cover.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: has.been on November 10, 2022, 03:11:05 PM: Good luck with this David. Let me know if you want any
Adobe buildings done. I think I have some Crusaders, the
tanks NOT the religious knights, for when you want some
'support' options. :D

Quote
though I do have a Pzr III to build.
Gosh! I know how big your Pz IIs are. lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Digits on November 10, 2022, 04:13:17 PM: We can discuss adobes next time we see each other Pete. In the meantime, if you come across any 1/60 scale Focke Wolfs, do let me know please…..
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: has.been on November 10, 2022, 07:26:41 PM: I have two 1/48th Focke Wolfs, if you're interested.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Digits on November 10, 2022, 08:55:13 PM: Perhaps too big for my plans but thanks.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Shahbahraz on November 11, 2022, 01:37:08 AM: Quote from: has.been on November 10, 2022, 07:26:41 PM
I have two 1/48th Focke Wolfs, if you're interested.

So going to buy those off you till I realised how few 190 showed up over N. Africa. :)
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: SJWi on November 11, 2022, 05:22:04 AM: I think the Fw190 only arrived in N Africa November '42 so during the fighting in Tunisia and Algeria. Maybe better to locate an Me109.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: has.been on November 11, 2022, 06:31:36 AM: Quote
So going to buy those off you till I realised how few 190 showed up over N. Africa.
I got them with the plan of using them in Sicily, an 'ongoing' project with Flatpack.

Quote
Maybe better to locate an Me109.

True, but the FW190 is a favorite bird of mine. :)
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Shahbahraz on November 11, 2022, 07:45:43 AM: Ok I'm tempted now... which 1/48 FW 190, and how much?
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: has.been on November 11, 2022, 09:18:31 AM: Two Focke Wulf 190 D-11, both by Revell.
Make me an offer (plus postage)
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Digits on November 11, 2022, 09:19:10 AM: Through PM though please? 😉
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: has.been on November 11, 2022, 09:20:52 AM: Sorry, yes Digits is right.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Digits on November 11, 2022, 10:02:53 AM: So, my first purchase is in to work towards some usable scenery. I’ve ordered a 5kg bag of cork bark pieces. These should be perfect for make wadi sides, rock escarpments etc.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Digits on November 14, 2022, 04:05:26 PM: First order from Warlord has arrived with a few transport and support options.

I want a unit of motorbike borne troops, and one of the sidecars needed a machine gun. Simple conversion using crew from half track kit.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/930B1F99-BE05-4923-8110-832E88FDE6A3.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/71A2CCB6-04CD-49D9-8FB0-A46B760E78F6.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: vodkafan on November 24, 2022, 11:09:55 PM: Nice!
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Digits on March 19, 2023, 11:15:42 AM: And finally, we begin….

Jamie came over yesterday for a chat and ended up taking the few vehicles I had amassed in order to start putting paint to them. So far he has the fuel tanker, 222, 250/1, Krupp and Horsch staff cars and a pzr III…should keep him going for a while.

My order from Black Tree finally arrived after three months or so of waiting, but to be fair, the models do match in quite well with the Artizan minis, there are a couple in this picture, and that will help me with some variety…especially with supports and lmg teams.

I had originally primed these black….but in hindsight, army painter desert yellow would be a better start…..but by not applying it so hard, it’s given me a good base to start from I think….

Anyway, will work up a few test minis soon enough. I like the idea of starting with these slightly more relaxed poses, as if the action is yet to start….

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/54429C91-B286-4AAD-9101-71875CF270A5.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: Thargor on March 19, 2023, 04:46:18 PM: Those figures look great. Following this with interest as I've just started building forces for DAK Attack.
Title: Re: DAK Project - mustering the minis
Post by: FifteensAway on March 19, 2023, 07:45:20 PM: Digits, if you want a little model inspiration (in 15 mm), check out WarIn15mm's blog - using the Weekly Workbench Archive link (which I did here: https://warin15mm.com/weekly-workbench-m9pzh (https://warin15mm.com/weekly-workbench-m9pzh)). At some point he'll post up a gallery but for now you can see his work as mentioned. He has quite a sizable setup of Germans versus British in North Africa. Beware that visiting his blog, if you haven't previously, might use up a chunk of time. Also note that there are many, many weekly posts for DAK, etc., not just the one I linked to.
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: Digits on March 20, 2023, 07:16:39 PM: Cheers. Decided on early war with them arriving with tropical green uniforms…..there are a few paint tutorials and schemes about, from Artizan and Warlord to “paint all the minis” and I think I’m going to use a bit of a combo from them all….

So WIP shot as I start applying the first paint.

I can’t help but find myself humming the theme to Raiders of the lost arc with these fellas……I have a couple of subs……🤔

Anyway, hopefully I will have this test batch done over the next few evenings..

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/A859CE05-F3FF-4EBC-A5D7-A2760D1D18A7.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: has.been on March 20, 2023, 07:48:38 PM: Quote
I can’t help but find myself humming the theme to Raiders of the lost arc with these fellas……I have a couple of subs……🤔

Arc of the Covenant anyone?
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: Digits on March 20, 2023, 09:07:24 PM: Already ordered!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/3FE508F5-BE00-4B9C-AE99-6012F6199C1F.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I have plenty of plastic DAK…so easy (hopefully) conversion to make bearers.
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: has.been on March 21, 2023, 11:42:37 AM: To be followed onto the work-bench by a flipping big
1930s (weird but lovely) plane?
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: FifteensAway on March 21, 2023, 01:09:22 PM: Digits, can you share some links to those tutorials, please? Or are they part of the manufacturers you mentioned pages?

I like that look for the Germans and it fits with my 1930s Central American game I am building that will include submarines and tramp steamers.

Thanks!
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: Digits on March 21, 2023, 02:18:13 PM: No worries

https://www.artizandesigns.com/guides/GermanAfrikaKorpsWW2.pdf
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: Digits on March 22, 2023, 09:48:14 AM: Did a bit more on them last night…but still a ways to go.

I did get distracted however and start building a few supports.

I finished the motorcycle Aufklarungs squad.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/5C873A37-698F-452B-949B-9E026CAB728B.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

A pair 5cm mortar teams

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/433386D5-6EAA-479A-A432-CB6DDC341B2C.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/08108FC1-A0AC-4826-B7D8-A37E50BB556B.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

An anti tank rifle

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/0BCE37AE-C15A-4E18-9577-456784C52D41.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

A couple of engineering teams, flame thrower (Blacktree) and demo / wire cutting team.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/6B4FE8E4-08DC-4685-A052-CF66AC0788F2.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/5C415D88-EF55-478F-9B92-CDB52C6ADF8D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Tripod mounted MMG team

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/09B84509-81F5-4A65-8288-7875A56A3139.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

And put together a little vignette for the forward observer.

Mixing in a little warlord plastic ( and Rubicon here) into the metals is necessary to finish them, especially in supports and variety when it comes say to mg teams. I think that trying to mix a metal onto the base with the plastics, stops them from standing apart when looking at them. Plus it gives me an opportunity to base up the over abundance of mp40 wielding minis that Artizan released ( you’d think every second German in North Africa carried one! ) Anyway, I’m rambling.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/0751420E-BC79-4D53-88BE-AA5813792BE6.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: Tom Dulski on March 22, 2023, 11:33:55 AM: They look great so far. Looking forward to the final product.
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: FifteensAway on March 22, 2023, 02:29:45 PM: Thanks for the link, Digits.

Now if only I could find such Germans in 15 mm in that pith helmet with the tropical uniform! Fat chance of that. But I can dream.
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: Digits on March 22, 2023, 02:46:19 PM: Pretty sure I’ve seen some nice printed minis available at that scale.
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: FifteensAway on March 22, 2023, 11:48:03 PM: Digits, there are very nice Germans - from Khurasan - that I've already acquired. Alas, they are not in the pith helmet. I guess I could try some modifications but I'm not sure my skill set is up to that task - replacing heads - and not botching up both the head and the figure! :o

However, shall be watching your progress here for further inspiration.
Title: Re: DAK Project - early days
Post by: Digits on March 23, 2023, 12:11:06 AM: Hmmm…can’t help there.

However found a useful article on DAK headwear.

https://alexanderandsonsrestorations.com/afrika-tan-german-helmet-north-africa/
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 27, 2023, 01:16:40 PM: So thoughts are turning to scenery.

As I said earlier in the thread, there are many geological features in the northern Sahara. It’s semi arid in most of the north, so there are spare grass lands and scratchy trees in some areas, rocky stone plateaus (hamada), gravel plains (reg) and sand seas with large dunes (ergs). Scarce rainfall and driving winds have created wadis, gorges, rock features etc. there are salt lakes and sunken flat dry lakes and other features. The wadis tend to have scrub and trees in them as they are moisture traps.

So, as I need a few geological features, I decided to break out the cork I bought. This is under half of it but I’ve rough cut it into manageable heights and some will go on these two bases to form escarpment frontages / wadi / gorge sides.

I also need a kopje for my Daftest Africa thread so will make it useable for both settings. Rather than one large kopje, I may make it in two halves, so it can be split and used at the board edge.

Just wondering what to use to build up the backs…..and I will make a start.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/01819E97-500D-4F24-8C16-E55086EE1C56.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Edit:

First basic shaping…..now to figure out how to proceed next! Lol

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/2F415B22-6C9B-4C46-86B9-445D638669C6.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: has.been on March 27, 2023, 09:01:49 PM: David, have you thought of expanding foam?
Poundland has some at the moment (£2.50).
After you've sprayed it, let it set. It can then
be cut &/or sanded.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 27, 2023, 10:29:35 PM: That’s a damned good idea me thinks! Cheers

Edit: these will be be a good background addition me thinks. Will kill a few birds with one stone. I wanted to use these with my Daftest Africa…..slavers to work with Zanzibaris. They will also work when I finally get to do my long term ambition to tackle the French Foreign Legion ( but that’s a way off yet). I will buy a set of Warlord camels to complete the train in time.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/AB11A465-8BE6-48E1-9050-748947BF9488.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 28, 2023, 05:18:38 PM: OMG! It’s horrible stuff! Lol

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/9917B9C7-16D6-4F5F-A0A3-70DE4D4347C4.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4C97BBFE-A400-4C05-9FDF-3C22908C0046.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I think I used a bit much……I bough5 a large tin and it ran ou5 after these two parts and one of the escarpments!

It sticks to bloody EVERYTHING !

Let’s hope it cures well and I can shape it to something useful……
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: snitcythedog on March 28, 2023, 05:25:23 PM: Quote from: Digits on March 28, 2023, 05:18:38 PM
Let’s hope it cures well and I can shape it to something useful……
It will take time to cure. It can be used but not very well. When you cut the surface it will look like a bunch of bubbles so it will take a lot of filling or have to be capped. Every one of my experiments with this stuff has not turned out particularly well.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 28, 2023, 05:36:56 PM: Cheers….yes I intended to cap it off with a filler / pva mix which to be fair. Having never used the stuff I’m surprised how it keeps expanding, despite having sprayed it 45 minutes ago. I feel it is probably the right call, but I’m not keen on using it too often!

Anyway, I’m going to need another can at least.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: has.been on March 28, 2023, 06:06:11 PM: It does dry David. When it does you can cut & sand it, much as you
would 'Blue foam'. I figure that you want a (fairly) flat top & that
should be easy to do with a saw. It will create a lot of 'saw-dust'
so be careful (Don't upset the wife by leaving the 'dust' all over
the place.)

Quote
Edit: these will be be a good background addition me thinks. Will kill a few birds with one stone. I wanted to use these with my Daftest Africa…..slavers to work with Zanzibaris. They will also work when I finally get to do my long term ambition to tackle the French Foreign Legion ( but that’s a way off yet). I will buy a set of Warlord camels to complete the train in time.

Hey everybody! David's got the...hump. lol lol lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Freddy on March 28, 2023, 07:46:07 PM: This stuff is made to fill gaps, id does expand, thats the goal :) But it also has a deactivator, you can spray it after drying and it deflates it nicely. Here it is sold the same size of spray can bottle as lacquer, so do not make the same mistake as I did when switched the two :)
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 29, 2023, 08:39:38 AM: Well….not quite what I was expecting…..I thought foam would be harder…..none the less I think with a suitable crust of mixed filler and pva, it should be ok.

The larger of these two halves was soft in the middle and wet. Maybe I was too keen… however, filling it with off cuts has fleshed it out a bit.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/7B167E4B-D762-440A-90E6-81158D311A6E.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

The escarpment seems to have done better.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/F3C705D9-C6BE-41E7-971C-F92E32FF7E55.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Before I rush out to buy another can, I think I will concentrate on finishing these ones. If they work, that’s three / two good sized pieces of board scenery……let’s see…..

Edit:

So, a little contouring with off cuts of foam board for spills and sand collections against the cliff bases, then a bit like cake icing, a good mix of filler and pva which will take an age to dry, but should give a good solid crust. Anyway, will give me time to work on the AK…..

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/1EE05D5C-5744-477F-BFA6-8F45F0E2051D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4150777D-39E8-43FD-B142-77D51D550447.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: has.been on March 29, 2023, 03:26:02 PM: Looking better David. :)
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 29, 2023, 05:26:49 PM: Cheers….waiting game now. I suspect it will take a couple of days to fully harden before I can add sand etc.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: snitcythedog on March 29, 2023, 09:52:20 PM: Quote from: Digits on March 29, 2023, 05:26:49 PM
I suspect it will take a couple of days to fully harden before I can add sand etc.
Just a suggestion for your escarpments. http://snitchythedog.blogspot.com/2016/07/realistic-sand-runnels-or-erosion.html (http://snitchythedog.blogspot.com/2016/07/realistic-sand-runnels-or-erosion.html) Did this years ago and they are still going strong.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 29, 2023, 11:56:54 PM: Cheers, I use that method a lot myself too…..but I’ve started by creating the stacked base with foam card and plaster….will save on sand and superglue then. But flip or small runnels it will work perfectly well…good call.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: tomrommel1 on March 30, 2023, 06:44:35 AM: This is a nice project indeed
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 30, 2023, 12:59:39 PM: Cheers 😉

Still a little soft in places but realising I’d used cheap pva it will take a while. However I patient as I am, I’ve sanded it, so you get the idea now. Each piece about two foot long. When dry, I need to seal any exposed plaster with diluted pva, then spot fill any sand before undercoating. I personally think this will look very North African……but it still needs work…..

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/BA8ECDBB-6C93-40C8-857D-BA01FF0E0345.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: has.been on March 30, 2023, 03:12:47 PM: I think it is looking fine so far.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Johnny Boy on March 30, 2023, 03:18:54 PM: Wow! Digits, Prolific doesn't begin to cover your output. More splendid work I must say and I've been looking at Cork bark myself but I don't know how suitable it would be for NW Europe Commando raids etc. Did you get the treated stuff or sort it/sterilise by your own methods?
JB
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 30, 2023, 03:32:04 PM: Hmmm…sterilised? At the risk of sounding like an idiot…I wasn’t aware this was an issue?

I can understand it if sticking some in say a reptile tank…..otherwise I assumed sealing it and painting it would be sufficient no?

As for use in NW Europe…….point du hoc? Lots of cliff action there…..and there are rocky escarpments everywhere surely? Pop some in a woodland…that would look cool.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Johnny Boy on March 30, 2023, 05:20:52 PM: Quote from: Digits on March 30, 2023, 03:32:04 PM
Hmmm…sterilised? At the risk of sounding like an idiot…I wasn’t aware this was an issue?

I can understand it if sticking some in say a reptile tank…..otherwise I assumed sealing it and painting it would be sufficient no?

As for use in NW Europe…….point du hoc? Lots of cliff action there…..and there are rocky escarpments everywhere surely? Pop some in a woodland…that would look cool.

It's only I read some blurb saying this particular lot had been sterilised/treated to get rid of bugs etc and foolishly made an assumption that was standard. Knowing slightly less than nothing about this I'd agree sealing and painting should be fine. Thanks for the suggestions too, much appreciated
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: snitcythedog on March 30, 2023, 06:53:00 PM: With natural products it helps to sterilize. It will kill any fungus or bugs that might be hiding in it and dry it thoroughly. Bark, sand dirt or twigs can get all get baked on an old cookie tray. Fan assist 70c for an hour to an hour and a half will do it.

Years ago I had a small mushroom grow out of a terrain base when it got humid. Had to scrap the whole piece in the end.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 30, 2023, 06:54:37 PM: A small mushroom? I consider that a bonus! 😁
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: has.been on March 30, 2023, 10:02:48 PM: Quote
A small mushroom? I consider that a bonus! 😁

Not if it didn't leave...mushroom for the figures. lol lol lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 31, 2023, 08:06:14 AM: Oh dear!

Right, moving on a pace, priming done….once this is dry, we should get a little paint work done!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/7FB4B503-B6BA-474C-9BF3-555BFC0A8901.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Also, as this is a Digits scenic piece…I’m planning to include a little fauna….
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: has.been on March 31, 2023, 09:03:06 AM: David, I saw a video recently where they made scenery out of expanded polystyrene.
The kind that comes with just about any large parcel to protect the 'goods'.
To stop it crumbling/breaking they coated it, when modeled, with 'gunk'.
The gunk was:- Flour, water, salt (kills or 'sterilizes' the mix) & a cheap paint (e.g. match-pot).
They said that one or two coats was enough & tapped the example with a steel ruler to
show how tough it now was.
Thought it might be of interested to you.
Title: Re: DAK Project - scenery
Post by: Digits on March 31, 2023, 09:22:20 AM: Interesting thanks. I’m hoping not to have to make too many more though….storage might be an issue here 😕 but I’m hoping the amount of pva, and superglue on this should provide an adequate barrier. Where there were still soft spots in the drying filler, I costed the top in cheap superglue when sanding.

I may however spray all future cork projects in antiseptic spray before using though just to be safe.

The one thing I’m happy with here is the use of the hard foam board. Unlike the paper covered foam mounting boards…this stuff doesn’t warp and is still relatively lightweight.

I bought a full box each sheet being nearly two foot long. I’m kinda practicing here with these bits as I intend to use it for making a decent set of river boards…..something that’s been on my radar a while. They will have a few low cork escarpments in places and a gorge with waterfall for my jungle adventures. Anyway, that’s for later….
Title: Re: DAK Project - first completed models - rock formations
Post by: Digits on March 31, 2023, 01:56:33 PM: I need to order some more material for the sparse ground cover, but otherwise this piece is done!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/592F8333-9EA7-4B00-8D1E-668A21C3DBAD.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - Wadi al - Sysfatha
Post by: Digits on March 31, 2023, 02:24:24 PM: And complete wadi!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/753C32A4-8643-4A36-9111-607951BA8483.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/7908DF21-E29F-40B9-B642-66B07402ED32.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/E13E225B-AF03-4066-82E4-F49F341CCE73.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/5403CBB1-C88B-41E3-960D-EFC4D4393482.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/BE0EA074-A735-426C-8A2F-7F1CD080DB19.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - Wadi al - Syafatha
Post by: brunei35 on March 31, 2023, 02:59:51 PM: Nicely done :)
Title: Re: DAK Project - Wadi al - Syafatha
Post by: has.been on March 31, 2023, 03:36:47 PM: Looking good.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Wadi al - Syafatha
Post by: Freddy on March 31, 2023, 04:39:04 PM: Cool, adding birds is a great idea!
Title: Re: DAK Project - “Hut hut hut!”
Post by: Digits on March 31, 2023, 06:18:09 PM: Cheers guys….ok, a couple of Bedouin.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/9D57D0BB-AF96-40E8-9C38-DEEEACEB32AC.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4AEDFE06-44F3-4B76-8AF7-AA96CB55F1B6.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - “Hut hut hut!”
Post by: Ash on March 31, 2023, 08:01:25 PM: Wow, you did a great job on painting that up. Looks superb.
Title: Re: DAK Project - “Hut hut hut!”
Post by: Digits on March 31, 2023, 08:32:15 PM: Thanks mate.

Me thinks I now have to make a Bedouin tent / encampment.

Also, as well as the other escarpment, I also need at least one table corner piece and a few small rocky outcrops / boulder fields. Plus of course an oasis and a few trees…..
Title: Re: DAK Project - “Hut hut hut!”
Post by: snitcythedog on April 01, 2023, 12:47:20 AM: Quote from: Digits on March 31, 2023, 08:32:15 PM
Me thinks I now have to make a Bedouin tent / encampment.
You figure out how to do that please do a tutorial.
Title: Re: DAK Project - “Hut hut hut!”
Post by: Digits on April 01, 2023, 03:31:45 AM: Quote from: snitcythedog on April 01, 2023, 12:47:20 AM
You figure out how to do that please do a tutorial.

Ah now….there’s a challenge……
Title: Re: DAK Project - “Hut hut hut!”
Post by: has.been on April 01, 2023, 05:39:22 AM: Quote
Me thinks I now have to make a Bedouin tent / encampment.
You figure out how to do that please do a tutorial.

We are all looking forward to some...In-Tents instruction. lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - “Hut hut hut!”
Post by: Kikuchiyo on April 01, 2023, 07:11:21 AM: Very nice
Title: Re: DAK Project - a challenge….Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 01, 2023, 02:37:34 PM: We…here goes nothing!

Accepting Snitchy’s challenge, I will have a go at Bedouin Tents. I’m making these more heroic scale so reduce sizes if you want smaller……but I think these fellas are pretty sociable types and the size of their tent reflects that. Certainly the one I went in when I was a child was huge….but then I was only half the height I am now! Lol

So, looking what I have…..this is the key.

One sheet A4 sheet of plasticard
One bag of wood crafting twigs
And most importantly, wax covered thread ( very strong - great stuff)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/19747BF1-6981-4A93-B998-6D06F87D0B0C.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now…without the use of rulers…ie doing it all by eye…..cut the sheet in half. Cut a number of poles…..4 at 4cm, 4 at 5cm, 1 at 6 cm and 1 at 7cm. Mark out like this.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4E754490-E0FA-4D96-9769-FB6F76B2CE75.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

With pin drill….make holes like this

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/02E82412-D91B-4689-AB3F-4023A87B575D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Cut foot long pieces of thread, tie knots in one end and thread like this

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/18A1EE41-C573-4FEB-AEB0-3465BA09F2E2.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now using superglue…..glue poles like this….make sure centre front pole is leaning forwards. I pour and glue a little sand at the bases for strength.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/A6CAB34E-2FA3-446A-B0C8-386C2F9DDCEA.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now, put blobs of glue on tops of poles and lay thread over, threading down though opposite holes. I then cut little pieces of cocktail stick to look like tent pegs….glue and sand them wher3 the strings disappear into the plasticard.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/B6C98984-9E86-4626-9DCC-2FBB01EC3E5E.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Should look like this

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/DA0246EE-4C6D-432F-8BA2-7C2BC6DA7757.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now as I’m making an open one and a closed one, sand the bases accordingly.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/E91C09FB-35DD-408D-90DB-9EF4757E98A7.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

To be continued…..
Title: Re: DAK Project - a challenge….Bedouin Tents
Post by: Marine0846 on April 01, 2023, 05:20:59 PM: So far, so good.
Love this.
With your instructions even I might be able to make one. ;D
Title: Re: DAK Project - a challenge….Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 02, 2023, 10:00:03 AM: Have a go fella….

Ok so part two!

Look in the wardrobe for an old t shirt……and cut it into long strips about 5cm wide.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/72548CD2-E630-4F3F-983C-897D4D538D5C.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

To do the sides, superglue tack it at the tops of the uprights…not too much glue because you want to keep it flexible for now.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/D82595C7-5EC3-4A9F-A65D-E1B04712A46C.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Do the front in two parts with a slight overlap so you can later create an effective entrance (or rolll it upwards if you want an open fronted tent)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/BF293914-4CDD-44AC-BB7B-0EEF1713F2FB.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

To prepare the roof panels….cut three strips, with the central one being ever so slightly longer (it has further to stretch over the tent) then with neat pva glue in overlaps and let this get tacky.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/AE6D0245-3270-4395-8BB5-0CDD49D771A5.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/23AAF384-EC00-451E-BD87-E9DCBF69A33A.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Now with watered down pva, soak and manoeuvre the tent sides into place. I should have made them slightly wider me thinks to stretch down to ground but I can live with it for now…..a little superglue and sand will help tack it down if necessary. I also spray the inside for ease later.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4A94B34A-FE00-409A-800B-2A2689A70687.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Then I soak the roof panel and manoeuvre into place. Use neat pva at edges where you want to join it to the wall sides….and I’ve added a few offcut “repair” panels for detailing.

Et voila!

One Bedouin tent…..allow to dry and paint as you like it!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/1325BD5D-14C0-41AE-B15D-DF6FA4FB0C13.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/E1CB065B-27E8-49B1-A54C-B1560F472BB4.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Edit: and the open fronted one. Just nearly wrecked it adding the tie to the roll up…..I will wait until dry before attempting the others, but you get the idea.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/5E28379D-4D80-4DC8-83F1-5B2A3B91555F.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/6F3BCC87-BD79-4962-B680-449A882D9354.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - a challenge….Bedouin Tents
Post by: Freddy on April 02, 2023, 11:08:51 AM: Looks great! I would like to do truck tilts with this technique. Already at the part of not trashing old tshirts :P
Title: Re: DAK Project - Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 02, 2023, 11:12:17 AM: Yup that would work……I use pva and tissue a lot for easy tarps etc……but material has a nice weave and texture to it. I picked this t shirt simply because it was a close weave….meaning it would look ok at a small scale. It should look ok painted I hope.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Bedouin Tents
Post by: has.been on April 02, 2023, 11:37:44 AM: Good progress.
The trouble I would have with an 'open' tent is having to do
the interior detail.
lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 02, 2023, 11:48:20 AM: True…but an open fronted one adds a good level of interest / deatail of construction a
That isn’t obvious with the closed one.

If I’d only built one…I’d feel cheated later on.

Easy enough to make a few mats and scatter about. I have some clay pots that could pass as cous cous pots too to dot about. I found some carpets and a pouf from alternative minis that are easily added in…
Title: Re: DAK Project - Bedouin Tents
Post by: blacksoilbill on April 02, 2023, 12:24:53 PM: Brilliant work on the tents.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Bedouin Tents
Post by: snitcythedog on April 02, 2023, 04:08:42 PM: Innovative solution. Very nice and thank you for the toot.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 02, 2023, 04:17:24 PM: You are most welcome…quite enjoyed it!

A few hours sat in my conservatory and they are bone dry enough for priming…..will get them painted this week. In the meantime, I picked up a couple of foam cans from Poundland…so I am going to finish the second escarpment and build a corner of the table rock piece to match those done. Hopefully over the next few weeks, the palms will arrive and I can set myself to an oasis too. The DAK figures are nearly all at the everything coloured and washed stage too, so I will finish them off with detailing and highlights in smaller batches.

Edit:

Corner piece and standing piece ready for foam.. the corner piece will have a nice rock stair case in the cling face…..very pulpy!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/B8466FA0-A05D-4D00-BD5A-F5B574540D27.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Other small orders placed for a missing support section from Artizan, including a few more sentries for raid games, as well as half a dozen Arabs to dot about their camp.

I also ordered an IG18 from warlord along with three camels with loads to complete the camel train.

Jamie is on with painting the first batch of DAK support vehicles so this is looking in good shape!

I now have my eyes on a few pink panthers……LRDG….oh yes!
Title: Re: DAK Project - Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 03, 2023, 12:46:55 PM: Personally I like them……I still need to sort out some rugs for the inside but they are coming.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/A1C68EF8-2F3C-4198-9E8D-F675C7E7E919.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/ACD584A0-7C11-4E4C-B08B-E046936EB101.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4542652B-6153-458B-B2FC-E23C98FFD682.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/EC27DD10-E79E-4630-908B-31A8B605F846.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/84D860D7-BF2B-4112-9EBC-7E20866739E3.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: blacksoilbill on April 03, 2023, 01:13:24 PM: So good! They've got a fantastic lived-in look.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: has.been on April 03, 2023, 02:05:59 PM: Lovely job David.
I would be very tempted to add 'stitching' (with a fine indelible black pen)
to the 'patches', but then I ain't gotten off my posterior & made any tents yet.
lol lol lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 03, 2023, 02:17:59 PM: I can live with it as is mate…but feel free! Lol. Hell…why not go the whole hog and use a needle and thread? 😉

Edit:

Couldn’t wait for rugs to arrive via snail mail so made my own. If the nice looking rugs arrive and I like them, I can throw them over the top of these anyway.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/2674F0FC-2499-4F7E-8356-88AFD8A0C07F.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: snitcythedog on April 03, 2023, 04:13:42 PM: Impressive. Where did you find the pottery and basket? I have not seen those before.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 03, 2023, 04:18:01 PM: I can’t remember…but the four pot arrangement is a resin print.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: has.been on April 03, 2023, 06:25:08 PM: Quote
Hell…why not go the whole hog and use a needle and thread? 😉

...& sew on, & sew on, & ... lol lol lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: Marine0846 on April 03, 2023, 07:14:29 PM: Excellent tents.
Love them. :-*
Much thanks for the tutorial.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: flatpack on April 03, 2023, 10:18:09 PM: Quote from: has.been on April 03, 2023, 06:25:08 PM
...& sew on, & sew on, & ... lol lol lol

I’m enjoying following this ”thread” lol lol
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: tomrommel1 on April 04, 2023, 05:28:32 AM: The tents are outstanding
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: Aethelwulf on April 04, 2023, 06:01:38 AM: What might I ask is a DAK project?

Awesome tents by the way.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 04, 2023, 07:12:35 AM: Deutsches Afrika Korps

Cheers guys.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: pauld on April 04, 2023, 08:26:17 AM: These are all museum quality pieces - so.so impressive...

... and so quick. You're obviously super human.

I envy those lucky enough to play with such wonderful toys.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: has.been on April 04, 2023, 09:21:55 AM: Quote
I’m enjoying following this ”thread” lol lol

Doesn't give you the needle Bob? :D

Looking forward to seeing David & Jamie (Digits & Private Buzz) AAR & pictures,
when this lot gets to the War-games table.
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: Digits on April 04, 2023, 10:15:25 AM: Quote from: pauld on April 04, 2023, 08:26:17 AM
These are all museum quality pieces - so.so impressive...

... and so quick. You're obviously super human.

I envy those lucky enough to play with such wonderful toys.

Kind of you to say…..super human though? No…just excited! Lol

Pete….still the small matter of collecting and painting armies to do as yet! Though to be fair, Jamie did start undercoating a few vehicles for me yesterday! 😉

Work underway with the second escarpment and table corner piece…

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/8AAB5F9E-FCB9-4FAB-AC8E-DAFA692394E5.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - Painted Bedouin Tents
Post by: tomrommel1 on April 04, 2023, 12:50:00 PM: nice
Title: Re: DAK Project - LRDG test minis
Post by: Digits on April 05, 2023, 02:00:18 PM: A couple of test minis as I start thinking about LRDG. Thinking they look like a couple of fellas off the front of a Commando comic book! Lol

Picture also shows tent scale.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/2BCD53A6-D1F0-4608-8C43-E31F844C0387.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/8944C744-6420-4FDD-BFD0-CF567C8B9D85.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: DAK Project - LRDG test minis
Post by: has.been on April 05, 2023, 02:04:15 PM: Good start on the LRDG David.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: Digits on April 05, 2023, 03:22:55 PM: Cheers Pete….thinking we can have a little FFoL fun with these fellas some time mate.

Official change to thread title now that it’s obviously not just a DAK project. Watched Ice Cold in Alex last night, hence the influence on the project. 😉 (and yes, I will be buying a Katy ambulance!)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: has.been on April 05, 2023, 07:23:05 PM: Quote
(and yes, I will be buying a Katy ambulance!)

What manufacturer for the crew?
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: Digits on April 05, 2023, 07:28:44 PM: Haven’t got that far yet….

Edit: We’ll I never?! So Perry do a set of minis…”Luke warm in Cairo”! 🤨
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: tomrommel1 on April 06, 2023, 06:03:33 AM: that is an outstanding result !!!
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: Digits on April 07, 2023, 09:13:01 AM: Thanks!

So this morning, I sanded the three new pieces. Sun’s out so should be dry in no time….

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/DAFA0609-420D-4964-984C-854EBEE2E65D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: Tom Dulski on April 07, 2023, 10:53:37 AM: looks great, the problem with large pieces like this (for me) :Dis storage
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: Digits on April 07, 2023, 12:51:43 PM: Me too! Lol
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: Digits on April 07, 2023, 02:00:08 PM: Progress with the AK fellas…..the whole platoon and mixed bag of supports is up to the washed stage……will do highlights and finish in smaller batches now.

On top of this lot, i have enough figures yet to base for a support section, I have a small AT gun, a Warlord plastic 88 and an IG18 to paint…then the bikes etc….but this will be my core taken care of.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/A3C60A3A-1251-46F4-A8CE-F342737C50A0.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: has.been on April 07, 2023, 02:07:33 PM: Quote
.but this will be my core taken care of.

I will only say nice things about them...
I don't want to be rotten to the core. lol
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya!
Post by: Ultravanillasmurf on April 10, 2023, 08:05:09 AM: Nice work on those tents, and the scenic pieces.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - painted Afrika Korps
Post by: Digits on April 10, 2023, 10:38:55 AM: Many thanks!

Ok, it was an effort to get them over the line, but I’ve painted the AK platoon and supports. Still have another support section, and a few guns to do yet mind, but I could play with these.

Pictures are dark and a bit crap…but then so is the weather outside!

Irwin Bobble and other Senior Leader

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/36955FA5-D475-4074-BF27-8BD65CA7BF12.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Section 1

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/D38EDA07-DE17-4347-BADB-3AF8007852D3.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Section 2

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/649D8492-60BF-490A-85CB-E31417BD7D6A.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Section 3

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/A88AE097-D6CA-43E4-8DC4-8152468E7059.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

A pair of 5cm mortars

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4E9D0394-7975-479C-A2F6-A25F559EE682.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Engineers

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/7A963925-AD22-42DD-A511-C810E8CDE29F.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Tripod mounted MG

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/4F0F86CA-C2EF-46FC-8918-5499BB844873.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Anti Tank Rifle

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/3FB69413-DE09-4E89-8A1C-FD0281D512F5.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Forward observer

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/39B8FE20-0CC0-45FB-9DEE-B455C94AC339.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - painted Afrika Korps
Post by: Tom Dulski on April 10, 2023, 10:42:03 AM: well done
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - painted Afrika Korps
Post by: Digits on April 10, 2023, 02:23:41 PM: Thank you.

So…as I’m on a roll, I finished the other pieces of scenery and a few trees. This looks congested as it’s just by kitchen island, but on a 6 x 4 table, it should look pretty good me thinks.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/8E8D68E3-6A90-4553-9AC4-35A9B214B223.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I’m particularly fond of the corner piece…..nice atmospheric shots of a German patrol….

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/D94EAFE7-4448-4D32-B0B6-3364D6F3ED49.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/30457EA4-8FFD-460B-942E-D1BDB8965C6D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/8A11FB1C-D8BF-499F-8E4B-9CD0F5D7A30D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - painted Afrika Korps
Post by: has.been on April 10, 2023, 04:55:19 PM: Looks fine, even if you think it's cramped.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - painted Afrika Korps
Post by: Zingara on April 10, 2023, 06:30:47 PM: Very good looking set up - well done - now to see all in a bat rep !!
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - painted Afrika Korps
Post by: MaleGriffin on April 10, 2023, 06:40:45 PM: Your terrain looks FANTASTIC! Battles don't always take place on flat terrain, they take place in all kinds of terrain! You've inspired me to build some mountainous terrain!
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - painted Afrika Korps
Post by: Digits on April 10, 2023, 07:06:38 PM: Go to it mate, I look forward to seeing it!

You are right….not all terrain is flat. I am in slight danger of over doing this though……so I may have to do a few small rock piles to hide behind. The butte is not really a feature of North Afrika that I’m aware of, so it may just find its way onto other games tables, Wild West, sci fi etc….but the rest is fine.

Zing - Bat rep once I have an op force to play against!

Still need an oasis…….and a simple rock well ( like the simple one in Ice Cold in Alex ), some dug outs ( both for infantry and AFV’s), barbed wire pieces, and a couple of old wrecked Arab dwellings me thinks.

I’d like some quick sand…but almost none existent in the desert in reality. Apart from in the Qattara Depression which is pretty much impossible to traverse I think…..not sure if any @ction took place there or not, I will have to check.

Still a bit go do yet.

Edit:

I have the Artizan “ Indy “ . Quick conversion to give him a whip.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/C6902F4E-6B84-4E6C-BA8F-9E975C4A076D.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

And a few pics in slightly different light.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/156B7C3C-9C1C-486F-AB2A-EF3678735031.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/7D416E21-422C-4669-AD72-8F6D21D1231E.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/2563974F-E40A-4B53-B0F5-80C9515E89E3.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/EB40E0CA-AF77-4970-B81C-7C1622962715.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/78DF6CEB-BABE-4C56-97E1-74362B110419.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Digits on April 11, 2023, 02:15:52 PM: Digging in my garden alpine garden area, I have lots of little stones…….so a drop of superglue, a few twigs and a bit of string to make this simple yet potentially strategically important terrain piece / central objective. The shaduf is a typical tried and tested way of drawing water up the well. Typically it could have tin bucket or animal skin instead of the wooden bucket…but this is what I have. I will also make an oasis at some point, but this serves a similar purpose.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/D011146C-DCFC-446D-9E85-CF74CB0F3AD2.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Need to wait for some more palm trees to land before I can finish it but will be a good focal point on the table…..and I can picture a few tents pitched up about it.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Poiter50 on April 11, 2023, 02:36:44 PM: And now you have given me the name of the Arab style well that I could not recall, thank you. Found one on Thingiverse, will print next week.

Quote from: Digits on April 11, 2023, 02:15:52 PM
Digging in my garden alpine garden area, I have lots of little stones…….so a drop of superglue, a few twigs and a bit of string to make this simple yet potentially strategically important terrain piece / central objective. The shaduf is a typical tried and tested way of drawing water up the well. Typically it could have tin bucket or animal skin instead of the wooden bucket…but this is what I have. I will also make an oasis at some point, but this serves a similar purpose.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/D011146C-DCFC-446D-9E85-CF74CB0F3AD2.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Need to wait for some more palm trees to land before I can finish it but will be a good focal point on the table…..and I can picture a few tents pitched up about it.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Digits on April 11, 2023, 02:44:33 PM: Print it? This only takes half an hour to build it yourself. Yours may look prettier though I suppose….lol 😉

Edit: to be fair…nice looking piece on Thingyverse…..and it reminded me I need a counterweight.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/001AFB7E-D3ED-4957-BFF6-9E62462F6CAE.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Edit 2: RESULT!!! Had to go in the garage for something else….but found two bags of palm trees I didn’t realise I had! So, will finish this piece off, but I’m thinking I might also build a palm tree plantation to go with the oasis. I really must go in there more often……🤔
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: CapnJim on April 11, 2023, 11:10:37 PM: The rocky ground, well, and DAK boys all look great! WELL done! ;)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: tomrommel1 on April 12, 2023, 05:28:27 AM: nice well
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: jon_1066 on April 12, 2023, 11:02:17 AM: Well nice
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2023, 11:38:48 AM: Thank you chaps.

So, me thinks it fits in nicely. I tried to make the well feel deep, hopefully pulled that off.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/951E5491-C84D-40E2-BE85-3CE754B065DB.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Golgotha on April 12, 2023, 12:22:32 PM: Gosh that is looking all lovely - do especially love the tents and well - cracking work and very inspirational.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2023, 01:30:40 PM: Cheers fella.

Just thinking on other pieces I can do for this…..

As well as the aforementioned palm plantation, oasis pool, small rock clusters, barbed wire pieces etc

The odd vehicle wreck.

Irrigated crop

Maybe a Roman ruin in the sand?

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/A40B40E6-509F-4B09-96FD-46ECEE3FA518.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Or a series of hard dug defensive lines like those at Tobruk? Some great pictures showing how difficult to dig deeply it must have been! I quite like making sandbags too, so pretty easy targets to make.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/00C96ADD-85F7-4013-9D51-4C275F1F93FE.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I’m open to suggestions too….
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: has.been on April 12, 2023, 04:17:45 PM: 1) Supply dump
2) Parked plane(s)
3) Knocked out & burnt tank
4) half covered/uncovered Star Gate
5) Long column of POWs escorted by a lone armoured car.
6) Part of the (abandoned) French defense line (Algiers)

Quote
https://uk.images.search.yahoo.com/yhs/search;_ylt=AwrLD2cr2TZkhAMZDDx3Bwx.;_ylu=Y29sbwMEcG9zAzEEdnRpZAMEc2VjA3Nj?p=french+fortifications+in+ww2+North+Africa&type=33010001006_ds_sp&hsimp=yhs-com_chrome&hspart=comodo&ei=UTF-8&fr=yhs-comodo-com_chrome

If you finish that little lot I'll see if I can think of anything else. lol lol lol
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2023, 05:35:26 PM: Supply dump yes, and as I mentioned a few wrecks…but a “Stargate”? 🧐
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: has.been on April 12, 2023, 07:27:27 PM: Quote
…but a “Stargate”? 🧐

Yes. Very 'Pulp' 1930/40s adventure. You are already working on Indiana. :D

Once the gate is uncovered enough you can have Go-aould (?) or similar coming through it.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Freddy on April 12, 2023, 08:43:39 PM: Great looking scenery! Yes, it cries for pulp (does not matter if an actual pulp game or just an ester egg for historical), but with some antique stuff it could be used in ancient games too.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2023, 10:11:41 PM: Well maybe not a star gate…but an archeological excavation yes….I have an idea…..
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: snitcythedog on April 12, 2023, 10:21:54 PM: Adobe ruins would always work.
(https://previews.agefotostock.com/previewimage/medibigoff/ebddea57e1e7555ee6dfae73d9ede2f7/lkf-293395.jpg)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2023, 11:06:41 PM: Yup…they look cool. However they would perform much the same role as the ruins I intend getting

http://www.paulsmodellingworkshop.com/model/north-africanmiddle-eastern-ruined-houses-set/

But definitely one to keep in the back pocket…cheers.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - simple scenery
Post by: Tom Dulski on April 13, 2023, 10:46:28 AM: Never heard of Paul's thanks for the link. I might get those ruins too
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2023, 03:53:52 PM: Thread now officially combined with a little Pulp.

Not sure what happened with my Matt varnish…gone a tad cloudy, but I have Dr Jones.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/B3163A45-0BB5-4F04-B301-9B2CEFDCED57.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/AC58F5BD-7796-464C-9409-A31F1281525A.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

And it wouldn’t be Indiana Jones without rickety looking scaffolding…..so to preempt my archeological dig site…pick axe and lantern from a set of tools I’d forgotten I had. Plenty of shovels too so they will come in. I didn’t realise there were diggers available from Artizan…..one to purchase no doubt. Will get a set of right sized ladders too. Now all I need to do is find a suitable Egyptian monument or entrance to set in a cliff etc…

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/C4868FE3-DD4D-4BC0-8475-31DB2AD97970.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: snitcythedog on April 13, 2023, 05:53:00 PM: Looking good. If you want the rope lashing to look more realistic have a go with artificial sinew. It is thinner, strong and once super glued it is hard as a rock.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2023, 06:49:34 PM: Cheers…tbh this waxed thread is super strong anyway and looks ok once painted. My issue is simply I’m no Boy Scout when it comes to tying knots! My granny would be proud though!

Objective for Indy…..snapped the side carry pole off one side as it was too brittle so replaced with a pair of steel pins….rope cushioning added with thread, I think they work.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/55119BFA-9831-4572-AF5B-3AE729B79045.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: has.been on April 13, 2023, 07:25:58 PM: Quote
up…they look cool. However they would perform much the same role as the ruins I intend getting

http://www.paulsmodellingworkshop.com/model/north-africanmiddle-eastern-ruined-houses-set/

But definitely one to keep in the back pocket…cheers.

David! You thought of Paul, but not Peter!!! :o :o :o
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2023, 09:16:27 PM: But I like them! 🤓

To be fair, if we get to do a FFoL game over this lot, you can make me something then….I will have a think on…
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: LouieN on April 13, 2023, 10:56:56 PM: That looks amazing
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Digits on April 14, 2023, 02:06:24 PM: Thanks!

Ok, the scaffold is painted…just need to build a ruin now for it!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/44B7C4DC-FD88-4C62-8E36-88DF90DDA8FA.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Whilst at it, I decided to paint the rope bridge I fabricated on my Daftest Africa thread. I think I need to trim the base plates to make it fit better but that’s easy enough…..however, more for the pulp gaming than ww2, it’s a pretty good addition to be able to use!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/B7982A12-7328-4103-A88F-496C408D4D84.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/7ED2FAC5-7269-4428-8C6A-B8FB2C1D728A.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: CapnJim on April 15, 2023, 07:55:41 PM: Nice shots of Indy in situ. Hope he makes it our OK. I'm sure it's in the script...
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Gunner Dunbar on April 16, 2023, 05:21:52 AM: Very cool, I like seeing known characters like this.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Digits on April 16, 2023, 09:20:36 AM: Cheers fellas…though from now on, I will be keeping the Pulp updates in my Daftest Africa thread and concentrating more on the WW2 stuff here.

On the paint table another section for the DAK. Going slightly sentry heavy with these guys so I can use them in 0200 hours etc too.

Also trying to figure out paint scheme for the few light vehicles ( cars and bikes) that I will paint myself, whereas Jamie has started on the proper vehicles.

I also have a few artillery pieces to concentrate on, Ig 18, an 88 and a small pak at gun.

Terrain here will concentrate on defensive positions etc. So plenty to do yet…
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: FifteensAway on April 16, 2023, 01:57:09 PM: Reading through this thread - and being a fan of Digit's work, so many periods and so many fantastic terrain bits - I find myself wondering how large of a warehouse he owns or has rented out?! :D

Visiting the garage? Did your wife take over and hide stuff out there to make it hard to get to? lol. Around here a garage is a Man's land! For some reason, my wife just doesn't understand. :o. Maybe it is her foreign born origins. ;)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: snitcythedog on April 16, 2023, 08:00:07 PM: Well cool all around.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Golgotha on April 16, 2023, 09:18:01 PM: Ha…one precarious looking rope bridge fella…!
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - a certain archaeologist!
Post by: Digits on April 16, 2023, 09:23:15 PM: 😉
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - prepping for a little night action!
Post by: Digits on April 01, 2024, 07:12:19 PM: Flitting to another project…..just painted up a support section for the DAK.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1761.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

And having bought the North Africa expansion for 02 Hundred Hours, I decided it was actually time to knuckle down and actually play the game!

Just so happens the minis in the set are mostly Artizan so I now have lots of guards….and with a little adjustment..two dog handlers.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1763.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1757.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

So next I need to paint a few LRDG / SAS minis…..then throw together an objective table.

The first of which may be a small air base.

I just picked up five of these snap fix 1:48 ME109’s. Not the best models…but at £5 each..they are perfect for a little background scenery! Jamie is going to do a little artwork and repaint them for me.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_4668.png?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Talking of which…I haven’t shown the vehicles he already painted for me. I will get them out later this week for pics.

I have ordered a sarrisa watch tower that will need a little working to fit my theme, an£ I have a few tents coming for a makeshift pilots mess.

What I do need is a crap load of barbed wire for this project…so in time plenty of that…..
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - prepping for a little night action!
Post by: Digits on April 05, 2024, 06:45:53 PM: Going to need a watch tower and a lots of barbed wire defences. I don’t want to just base them for the desert though…… so these will be “ free standing” so I can use them on other tables. Going to paint these up before adding the wire.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_4679.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - prepping for a little night action!
Post by: has.been on April 05, 2024, 07:04:41 PM: Quote
I don’t want to just base them for the desert though…… so these will be “ free standing” so I can use them on other tables.
77

Good thinking David. :)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - watch tower
Post by: Digits on April 06, 2024, 01:53:10 PM: Watch tower done. Replaced roof with a little corrugated tin. Added a few sandbags is all, useful item for 02 Hundred Hours I think

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_4682.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - Messerschmitt!
Post by: Digits on April 08, 2024, 10:30:27 PM: The five ME109’s arrived in the post. A little tricky to pop together as the frame a little warped and there will be a few bits on it that will upset purists but for the money…they will do great! The scale is pretty good. Ok…all five they sent are completely different colour schemes 🥴 but it doesn’t matter as they will all get painted anyway.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1772.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1773.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

Just need to assemble the other four….
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - Messerschmitt!
Post by: carlos marighela on April 09, 2024, 12:56:49 AM: Nice! I've seen those 109s locally. They also do a Hurricane (misidentified as a Spit) and a Corsair. I bought the Corsair a few years ago for my son. For wargaming items they are more than adequate.

If you ever fancy earlier model BF-109s that are cheap and easy to put to gether have a look at the Pegasus range. You can glue ém together but there's no need and because the undercart is plug 'n'play you can pose them in flight or landed at will. They do a nice Hurricane if you need any support from the Desert Air Force.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - Messerschmitt!
Post by: Digits on April 09, 2024, 05:58:22 AM: Cheers…I will take a look!
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: Digits on April 12, 2024, 04:28:46 PM: Only had enough wire for 7 sections (3.5 feet) so will have to pick up some more, but these work ok I think.

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1775.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: Basementboy on April 13, 2024, 06:49:59 PM: Looks good to me! Just discovered this thread, very nice work all round ;)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: Digits on April 13, 2024, 07:40:52 PM: Cheers fella!

Ok so I found a bit more wire in a box so another two feet made.

Starting to pull together enough for an airfield raid now….

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1777.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

I have a Jerry can dump…but now need a drum dump…

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1780.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

These are the vehicles Jamie painted for me. I only just got round to adding the crew / drivers!

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1786.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1788.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)

(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/b76/DigitsDavid/IMG_1782.jpeg?width=960&height=720&fit=bounds)
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: has.been on April 13, 2024, 09:49:41 PM: He does good stuff does Jamie :-*
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: flatpack on April 14, 2024, 08:12:59 AM: Well done to both of you.
Nice work.
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: carlos marighela on April 14, 2024, 10:14:53 AM: Lovely work! :-* :-*

Clever use of hurdles to avoid actually basing the wire, although in reality wired up hurdles are usually only used as entrance barriers, as they are too easy to lift and consume a lot of timber. Still, for multi use wire entanglements it's a sensible approach.

Here are some cheap and easy solutions to the barrel dump.

https://anyscalemodels.co.uk/products/1-56-stack-of-8-44gal-oil-drums

https://anyscalemodels.co.uk/products/camo-net-covered-fuel-dump
Title: Re: Luke warm in Libya! - barbed wire defences
Post by: Basementboy on April 15, 2024, 09:44:43 PM: Fantastic! Love the Jerry can dump in particular, gives the whole piece a nice “lived in” feel :)
And I have to agree that Jamie’s vehicles look stellar, this project is coming along beautifully.