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Miniatures Adventure => Fantasy Adventures => Topic started by: Revfan on August 27, 2015, 07:20:59 PM

Title: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on August 27, 2015, 07:20:59 PM
Hey Guys...

I am changing the Original Post a bit to reflect the development of the thread.

If you were a fan of the Old School Grenadier Sculpts, have some sitting around that need painting, or want to relive your childhood by hunting down a box or two, than this thread is for you!

If interested, and folks have the same box of minis... we could work on em together and post our progress.

There is no time line or pressure... if you just stumbled on this thread, jump on in.  If you have already painted some, and want to inspire us, please post what you got.  You don't even need to have the whole box!

I am a painting newbie... and could use lots of tips... so constructive criticism is welcome.

It doesn't have to be #2005 Fighting Men... I also have
#2002 - Halflings, 2003 Dwarves, 2004 Hirelings, 2006 Specialist, 2010 Denizens of the Swamp, 2011 Orc's Lair....

We Started with the Fighting Men
(http://miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/images/thumb/2/20/G-dlfbs-2005-box.jpg/800px-G-dlfbs-2005-box.jpg)
Currently, we are doing the Specialist

 Here is a checklist if you are looking through your own stuff or want to buy some to play along
(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/Checklist.jpg)

Grenadier released these again under the banner of "Dragon Lords"... they shuffled some of the figs around, and added more sets but mostly the early numbers stayed the same.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: eptingmike on August 29, 2015, 12:50:44 AM
Well, I have far too much on the table to commit to the 'task' you have set out but I will follow with interest.  I love those old Grenadier sets.  They are the first quality minis I ever got.
Regarding tips/advice, for the newbie the one thing I would most recommend is patience.  Take your time and jsut do your best.  Don't judge yourself by the standards set by others.  It is easy to get discouraged when you see the quality of work that some of the very talented painters on this and other forums display.  Remember, it is about enjoying yourself; it ain't a competition!  
I would also recommend picking up the Foundry painting guide by Kevin Daimore or How to Paint Citadel Miniatures.  Both of these are great resources.  The Citiadel one is a little more basic but is much cheaper.  I have both and am very happy with them.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: 6mmfan on August 29, 2015, 10:48:16 PM
I'm a big fan of the Grenadier stuff as I grew up with it and it was the first figures I brought. The details on the figures still stand up well today IMHO, and I think they are good enough to use modern painting techniques.

I have some of the Orcs and Goblins (mostly goblins) and the Goblin Warband set. Here is some of the painted ones (apologies for the photos). I've just rebased these so I need to photograph them again.

(http://i1022.photobucket.com/albums/af342/6mmwargamin/28mm%20dungeon%20crawl/orcs1_zps24c7fec7.jpg)

(http://i1022.photobucket.com/albums/af342/6mmwargamin/28mm%20dungeon%20crawl/orcs2_zps26457207.jpg)


Cheers
Kieran
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on August 30, 2015, 11:50:16 AM
This sounds like an interesting project.  I've got all the old Grenadier AD&D sets, and have been wanting to get started on painting them for some time.  This could be exactly the thing I need to kick me into action.  So, I'm in, 2005 Fighting Men, here I come!

Here's my collection, I have some work on my hands!

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/SolidGold1_zpsplq4xtkm.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/SolidGold1_zpsplq4xtkm.jpg.html)

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: DeafNala on August 30, 2015, 12:51:06 PM
Although all my Grenadier minis were painted years ago & have long since departed for better homes, this should be a WONDERFUL thread to follow. Have FUN with all the Old Minis!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on August 30, 2015, 01:02:10 PM
I think I have either the complete set, or some of the miniatures.  I'll check when I'm back from my holiday and would gladly join. Otherwise there is quite a chance of them never getting painted.

part of me would like it if these sets ever came available again,  but by today's standards they are a bit dated (though still very nice).
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: joekano on August 30, 2015, 07:21:00 PM
I've got too much on the table as well, though have a few old boxes I'd like to repaint some day.   Looking forward to watching this progress!

Chris
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: ZeroTwentythree on August 30, 2015, 08:07:59 PM
What a cool idea. The Grenadier sets were some of the first miniatures I painted. Unfortunately I have almost nothing left. I believe I have a few of the halflings & recently stripped them for re-painting. If I can keep up with this topic, I will try to paint along when you get to them!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Duncan McDane on August 30, 2015, 08:44:16 PM
I'd love to participate ( have some loose models from several different sets ) but I'm too committed to other projects already ( which probably never will get finished either  :'( ).
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on August 30, 2015, 09:47:55 PM
Hey Otherworldl
Looks like it just you and me right now.  I said 2005 Fighting men because it seems to be the most common... is there another set you'd "rather" start with.

I have a few, not as many as you... but i have halflings, fighters, specialists, Hirelings, Denizens, and a few others... any particular set you'd fancy?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on August 30, 2015, 10:06:23 PM
2005 is fine by me, especially as I just spent the evening cleaning, undercoating and basing them!  :)

So, are we doing them one at a time, or all together?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on August 31, 2015, 03:35:26 AM
I'm a big fan of the solid gold line and look forward to seeing yours and others efforts here!

So far, as I paint them I pay little attention to the sets they come out of and group the group monsters by species and paint the others as need or inclination arises. However, I have thought about assembling and painting the sets, and I may do that in the future, though probably not in time to share on this particular thread. I have quite a few pristine boxes of them but I hesitate to paint those, as then what am going to do with the boxes!

You can find many of the gold line figures I've painted so far by sifting through my LAF D&D thread:
http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=32158

However, it's easier to view them on Flickr as my collection there is tagged and thus:
https://www.flickr.com/search/?tags=solidgoldline

Maddeningly, there seems to be no way to search for only my photos with a tag, and instead it's showing from everyone's photos, but in this particular case I'm the only one using this tag.

I've also shared on my blog some hi-res box and insert scans by me and a fellow lead adventurer:
pt1:
http://belchedfromthedepths.blogspot.com/2014/03/grenadier-ad-solid-gold-line-box-art.html
pt2:
http://belchedfromthedepths.blogspot.com/2014/04/grenadier-ad-solid-gold-line-box-art.html

Such awesome art and design!

I also have quite a few in various states on my workbench. Closest to hand are two units I got as far as priming very recently:


Also a centaur from the mythology box, painting almost done. I wish Andrew Chernak had done more than two centaurs!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on August 31, 2015, 07:51:08 AM
SpookTalker

I am a REALLY BIG FAN of your work!  I have your site (bftd) bookmarked and check it out often...
And almost single-handidly, your Shambling Mound inspired me to start painting figures again after a 30 year hiatus! 

I am not worthy to carry your paint brush box!

That being said, I am glad you chimed in on this thread, and hope you check in on our progress. 

My thinking was, I would just paint the figs then stick them in the box and just carry the boxes around when its time to game (my 10 year old son found my old dnd stuff last fall, and that prompted my searching the web for a game I could teach him and we could play together and with local groups.  I tried Pathfinder, but it wasn't a good fit.  Now I have Castles and Crusades, and it seems to be more along the lines of what I was looking for.  I haven't looked into D&D5e yet, I have heard good things.  Since I cut my teeth on D&D & ADDv1 in the 70s/early 80s, I am drawn to a more retro approach)

Otherworld
You are already ahead of me... but I was hoping (and its working) that a group thearpy session would be motivation. 
I stuck my figs into the ultra sonic cleaner last night and I'll scrub em up when I am done with this post.

I am using Vallejo paints... does it matter what I use to prime them?  Will any rattle can budget flat black work or should I use something "special"?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on August 31, 2015, 07:57:49 AM
Also!

How bout we start with and follow the black n white insert as far as order goes?  It doesn't really matter I guess, but I am a noob, so if we are doing the same thing and posting, I will probably learn more.

Here is the box order...  From BFTD's site
(http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3688/13807921854_212e988aa4_z.jpg)

ALSO, if you don't have the whole box but have the individual mini... please join in with us!  Even if you have the whole box, but no time to do the whole thing... how bout just committing to the Spearman (first fig) to help us get started?

Cheers all!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: bandit86 on August 31, 2015, 09:30:36 AM
G was always one of my favs at the time
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: weismonsters on August 31, 2015, 12:13:43 PM
Hi. I have the Dragon Lords box "Folklore creatures of the night." If you get around to those, I will join in.

Best of luck.

As to painting tips, I would say water down the paint and work with small amount of paint on the brush. Brush maintenance is key, so that it keeps a good tip. There is a brush cleaner that comes in a beige tub, I think it is called "The Old Masters" or something like that, which works wonders. I currently have some other stuff but it is not as good.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: psullie on August 31, 2015, 03:54:02 PM
Otherworld that's a fine collection of lead. I have a few lined up, some Julie Guthrie sculpts, but first I want to repaint my Runequest collection and get them on the table as Otherworld factions, but I'll post my grenadier results here
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: m4jumbo on August 31, 2015, 05:07:05 PM
Another in the camp of would love to join in but have too many other ongoing painting projects at the moment.  Will be following the thread with interest though.  I do love the Grenedier boxed series miniatures getting attention.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Duncan McDane on August 31, 2015, 06:59:51 PM
Don't wait for me. First have to find the models (  Brax knows... o_o ) and secondly I'm not sure I have model A ( the fighter that is, not the Ford automobile... ). I remember some of them came in quite damaged too, so I'll follow this thread and will let you know if and when I contribute  :).
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on August 31, 2015, 08:58:29 PM
OK, I think I'll start off by painting the armour on them all first to get that out of the way, then concentrate on them one at a time once that is done. 

Have you noticed, btw, how lightly armoured they are, considering they supposed to be AD&D Fighting Men?  No plate mail to be seen, most in chainmail, some with padded armour and some not armoured at all.  I'm surprised that there isn't at least one in full plate, and even more surprised that I never noticed before in the 30 odd years that I've owned them!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on August 31, 2015, 09:18:53 PM
Quote from: otherworld on August 31, 2015, 08:58:29 PM
Have you noticed, btw, how lightly armoured they are, considering they supposed to be AD&D Fighting Men?  No plate mail to be seen, most in chainmail, some with padded armour and some not armoured at all.  I'm surprised that there isn't at least one in full plate, and even more surprised that I never noticed before in the 30 odd years that I've owned them!

Now you mention it, that is indeed odd, never did think much about that,  but I guess we're looking at low level fighters that haven't had the opportunity to upgrade their armour.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on August 31, 2015, 10:09:45 PM
See that was another noob mistake I made...   I guess we paint them as a group anyway....

I just moved house, but am just about done organizing the "family" stuff... the hobby room is last but I got some stuff ON the table at least!

(http://www.revfan.com/vettejourney/images/Minis.JPG)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on September 01, 2015, 07:07:45 PM
Right, I've finished basing the set of 10 Fighting Men, on 1 pence pieces, old school style.  I've done some fairly simple textured Miliput groundwork on them, so I'll leave that overnight to go off.  I plan to start painting tomorrow, working on all the metal parts first.  I'll post a work-in-progress shot tomorrow, if I remember to bring my camera home this time.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on September 01, 2015, 08:36:40 PM
I'll be back from holiday tomorrow evening and will try to locate my boxes and do so prep work. Not sure if I can match the speed I'm seeing in this topic though  o_o
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 06, 2015, 09:55:37 AM
Got mine primed and have started...   I hope to post some in progress pics by end of Holiday weekend

If you have already painted (in the past) any of these from the box, please post pics for inspiration!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Elbows on September 06, 2015, 02:38:52 PM
I like the idea of the group therapy painting thing...though I don't think using old oop boxes is the best way to go about it.  I'd be in if someone picks a boxed set which is in production currently.  Neat idea.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on September 06, 2015, 03:13:26 PM
Quote from: Elbows on September 06, 2015, 02:38:52 PM
I like the idea of the group therapy painting thing...though I don't think using old oop boxes is the best way to go about it.  I'd be in if someone picks a boxed set which is in production currently.  Neat idea.

That benefit of the choice of this OOP set is that I finally took it from the lead mountain and found out that my box contain only 50% of the fighters... what the rest is, I have no clue (yet), except that they are also old OOP grenadier probably from other gold line boxes, I'll have to look that up.

Then again I'm up for a "therapy" session when either 25th HQ, Myth Journeyman, Conan, Dungeon Saga arrive. God knows, I can use the motivation to get a enough models painted for the games. If you can't wait so long, either Descent or Myth is also s goof choice. I might even start painting some dungeon pieces.  o_o
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Duncan McDane on September 06, 2015, 03:38:14 PM
I was thinking about the same lines... Blood Rage might get more people started, AoS too ( but not me  ;) ) but I still have to penetrate my very own Lead Star to liberate my old Grenadier Adventurers...
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 06, 2015, 08:48:38 PM
Quote
though I don't think using old oop boxes is the best way to go about it.
Its what I have... and what I "collect", so naturally, its what I chose...
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 11, 2015, 03:03:25 PM
If anyone wants to feel better about their own painting skills, all ya gotta do is look at my stuff!
 lol

I've been chipping away at it, and really, I suck at painting.  I've been following different "how to paint" guides on the web, and using the stuff that is on this forum for inspiration, but, at the end of the day, its hard to make chicken salad out of chicken $hit.

Anyway, I put my brush down 30 years ago, and have recently picked it up, so here goes.  

And naturally, my phone ran out of batteries after the first photo.

Still a work in process, but here is how it is going.

(http://www.revfan.com/vettejourney/images/Fighting-Men.JPG)

I am really struggling with brush control.... you'd think I was a life-long alcoholic that is suffering the DTs the way I handle a brush....

But, these aren't meant to be show winners, they are just pieces to use for gaming with my 10 year old boy and anyone else we can trick into playing with us.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Ray Rivers on September 11, 2015, 06:20:11 PM
Quote from: Revfan on September 11, 2015, 03:03:25 PM
I am really struggling with brush control....
Quote

Keep your paint well thinned and let the brush do the work. If you make a mistake, with well thinned paint it is easy to fix. Of course you will have to do two or three coats, but the result will be nice and smooth.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 15, 2015, 12:03:32 PM
More progress... still learning!
(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/FightingMen-02.JPG)

(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/FightingMen-03.jpg)

(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/FightingMen-07.jpg)

Photographing certainly helps... It allows me to see more of what I "should" be painting... damn my eyes!

(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/FightingMen-04.jpg)

(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/FightingMen-05.jpg)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: maxxon on September 15, 2015, 12:39:50 PM
Quote from: Revfan on September 15, 2015, 12:03:32 PM
More progress... still learning!

What are you using for primer?

Many of the models seem to have an excessively rough texture, which certainly does not help painting.

Long ago I used a car primer can that had a "filler" component. It produced something like what I see on your models.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 15, 2015, 01:08:33 PM
I am using a car primer...

Or I am just an expert and making metal look like fuzzy wool!

I have since replaced the primer, but too late for these minis.

I read a lot of conflicting advice in my build up to starting this project.  Black Car Primer, White Budget Primer, and No primer were just three of the options/friendly advice I found online.  Since I had black car primer, that is what I went with.  Also, I tried to use it sparingly, and that might have added to the effect as well.

(thanks for chiming in, by the way!)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Duncan McDane on September 15, 2015, 01:21:46 PM
Those models are old, well over 30 years old and the metal Grenadier used at the time isn't the best quality. On the surface it's brittle as you-know-what, you could almost use the models for drawing black and white art  lol.
Did you clean the models with water and soap  before priming? It helps a lot removing mold grease and other dirt from the model and makes the details much sharper, especially on older models.
The choice of what primer to use is a personal one. I use cheap grey ones, suitable for metal radiators in the house  ;). But whichever you use, after shaking, first spray shoul be on a piece of old newspaper or cardboard, so you know how thick/thin it is, the structure, if you've shaken it well etc. I learned that the hard way, ruining my 4th edition Warhammer basic set High Elfs  :'(.

On topic, I like what I see. Good choice of colours, like to see more.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Tactalvanic on September 15, 2015, 02:17:09 PM
They are good  for tabletop gaming and your enjoying the hobby 

thats more important than winning awards and praise

+1 your colour choices

This is a good idea, got me looking at what old grenadier boxes I have to... anything is a good idea if it gets me moving and painting some of the mountain

Variation in quality of castings from way back were common - depended on the batch of casting metal they bought at the time basically - usually the cheapest - not something exclusive to Grenadier - other companies had issues to.

I have seen some awful casts of some old minis I have and some really good supposedly from the same periods/batches - used to look - physically look at the miniatures in the box before buying back then to avoid some of the worst.

suspect issues mainly with the primer if they did not look that blotchy before you primed?

Brush care

Masters-Brush-Cleaner-Preserver

get from amazon or elsewhere depending on your pocket and googlefoo

even a small pot last ages - when I restarted painting after skipping it for reality fo 20 odd years, this rescued a lot of old brushes for me to get on with - it won't work miracles but it does really help make brushes last  a lot longer, and keep their points.

Primer - best tip I got was from somewhere in a post here almost always now use either black (ok mostly black) or white acrylic gesso - dilute and apply - gives good coverage, not to thick, and not to smooth and shiny, and takes other paints well - also one biggish pot is cheap - easy to drop some out, dilute a little, even with just water, and lasts ages.

such as Pebeo-Black-Studio-Acrylic-Gesso

has to be acrylic gesso though as there are big differences between that an artists gesso for oil painting on canvas...

As Duncan says - personal choice - that's my personal cheap choice - find what you like and go with it.

Best places I have found for advice strangely enough seem to have almost always been via LAF or directly from it - your already in the best place you can be as far as I am concerned - far better painters here than me, and they seem to like what you're doing to  :)

Keep it up and if you suddenly find a set to do that I have to - hmmmmm it might come out of the pile  :)



Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on September 15, 2015, 08:11:07 PM
Nicely done, Revfan, you've made a good start.

I've let the side down badly, I'm afraid.  I've only just got down to black under-coating the metal parts, and will try to get some metallics done tonight.  Nothing worth getting the camera out for yet, though. 

Hopefully I'll make a bit more progress in the next few evenings.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 15, 2015, 09:11:37 PM
I'm a scrounger by nature, so most of the sets I have were used/painted before and are craigslist/ebay/flea market finds.... no telling how much paint and for how long it had been on there.  I have a medium sized ultra sonic cleaner, so they have all gone in there to remove the old paint and to get cleaned up before I get my shot at em....

Thanks for all the tips guys... they certainly help.

No worries Otherworld... get to it when you get to it!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on September 15, 2015, 09:50:45 PM
Revfan, I just noticed that there are some differences between some of our figures.  Your pole-axeman has a completely different head, and your halberdier has a different weapon, possibly a different helmet too.  It will be interesting to compare them when they're all done. 

I'm pleased with my initial results on the metal parts.  I'm trying out some new paints, having recently kitted myself out with a set of Vallejo Model Colour.  I'm very impressed so far.  The silver is very...well...silvery!  :)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: maxxon on September 16, 2015, 08:40:41 AM
Quote from: Revfan on September 15, 2015, 01:08:33 PM
Black Car Primer, White Budget Primer, and No primer were just three of the options/friendly advice I found online.  

I use the cheapest matt black spray I can find -- and black gesso.

If you use primer sprays, just make sure they don't have a filler component -- those are intended to be sanded after priming and we don't want to do that.

If in doubt, spray a test on a piece of paper.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Major_Gilbear on September 16, 2015, 11:19:32 AM
First of all, I agree that the colours look very good, and I also think that your painting is neat and tidy. That's an excellent start!  :)

If you would like some suggestions regarding the rough finish and some other tips, I'd be happy to make a few suggestions along with accompanying thoughts/explanations. Then again, If you're enjoying the painting experience as-is and are not too fussed about expending extra time and effort, that's quite understandable too and I'll keep such advice to myself! :P
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: **GS** on September 16, 2015, 12:33:13 PM
Quote from: maxxon on September 16, 2015, 08:40:41 AM
I use the cheapest matt black spray I can find -- and black gesso.

I have gotten away from spray priming all over. Liquid black gesso has many advantages over spray stuff:
It's drying faster,
without any poisonous odor,
brushed on in a reasonable thickness it stretches neatly over the covered surface so that you have every detail picked out instead of smeared away,
the consistence of gesso makes the following paint applications stick/ adhere better.

I'd advise using gesso instead of spray stuff.

Love the old minis btw.!
Cheers
GS
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 16, 2015, 01:06:36 PM
Major Gilbear

I'd love to hear what you have to say.  Especially it is a learning opportunity for me!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Duncan McDane on September 16, 2015, 01:41:00 PM
I forgot to mention that the pre-primer cleaning should be done with a soft toothbrush. When stripping models, I use simple green, brush away the old paint/primer and then bathe them in water with dishwasher soap, brush them clean again and that way you'll have the old dirt ( and even old "rotting" metal ) gone. For me this was an eye-opener and should be done with all models, especially of this age ( also the ones still shining like new ).
And if that doesn't fix the rough texture, you always can grind away - using the smoothest sandpaper with the smallest grains you can find - flat eye catching surfaces like swords, shields and helmets.
But enough off this, you're still ahead of me so instead of rambling I should dig up one or 2 of this set and have a go myself.
Otherworld mentioned the different polearm on one of your figs. I think yours is a conversion or fix. I have this one myself, but without axe head, only the stick remains.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Major_Gilbear on September 16, 2015, 05:21:22 PM
Okay, I'm going to go through the sequence here pretty much "in order":

1) Post-prep cleaning.
These are old models, and are lead. They may still have mould release (talc) on them, the moulds may have been a bit worn when these were cast, they may have a bit of bloom (lead oxidation), and may even have been painted before.

Assuming they are not already painted, after cleaning off any mouldlines I would recommend giving them a thorough wash in hand-hot water with dish detergent and a toothbrush.

I also suggest buying some cheap toothbrushes for this - the bristles will be stiffer and clean better than using an old brush, and they are pennies each anyway (literally; I think I spend £0.19 on each!).

Then rinse them, and let them air dry on some paper towels.

2) Initial smoothing and sealing
With old lead models, you can gently scrub the bigger areas with a little wire wool or with a strip of some very fine-grit sandpaper at the prep stage prior to washing to help smooth away any roughness.

However, the old lead is often quite soft, and it can be a fine line between improving and worsening the surface of model unless you are willing to spend some time on it.

Instead, if the surfaces are not too bad, you can use a brush-on Polyurethane varnish (get something decent from a DIY store) to coat the main areas and help smooth them.

Doing this after washing the model helps it stick. If you want, you can give these areas more than one coat, but I would be wary of filling details if there are any.

Regardless of whether you spot-varnish any areas to smooth them, applying a very thinned coat to the whole model may not be a bad idea either, as it seals the model fully (always a good idea with lead models, and it helps to protect them from lead-rot too).

3) Priming
Use a primer to coat your models with an initial layer of paint. I used to undercoat by hand, but switched to spray-priming because the results were far better and faster. Specifically, the spray-on primer was more even and adhered to the model better. Unless you live somewhere very dry or very humid, I think you're better off with a spray primer too.

I use an automotive primer than comes in a rattlecan. It is specifically formulated to stick to metal, and to provide a smooth even coat outdoors without being too fussy about moderate ambient conditions.
The one I use is a sandable primer, but also contains a lot of solvent too. This is good as it gives you a smooth application, and lets the filler in it settle into the surface of the model to fill in scuff and scratches and light pitting.

You can get the primer in several colours too, and these can help you depending on what you're painting. Black is good for darker or neutral schemes, and white is good for lighter or brighter schemes. Black has the additional advantage that if you miss any bits, they are dark and won't stand put much on the finished model.

However, I find black makes the model hard to see when painting. My compromise is to use a mid-grey colour primer that gives you the best of both black and white, and is also easy to see. It takes reasonably little effort to bring up any colour from grey, and silver paints sit well on it too.

4) Applying primer
If you are too far from the model, the paint droplets start to dry before they hit the model, and you get fuzziness. If it is very hot/sunny/wet/dry/humid when you spray, this will affect the paint before it hits the model. If you are too close to the model, the force of the propellant can spoil the paint already on the model and you will also get too much paint landing in a small area on the model.

When you apply the spray you need a distance of about 8-10 inches from the nozzle to the model. Start spraying slightly in front of the model, and then move your can past the model fairly quickly to give it a light coating. Keep turning the model and passing it with spray a few times to get it mostly covered.

You don't always need to fully press down on the can's nozzle either, especially when it's fairly full, because too much paint will be deposited on the model in one go.

It takes a little practice, but it's very easy to get the hang of quickly!

After applying the spray, I let the model sit undisturbed for at least a full day. It's touchable and paintable after a couple of hours, but I've found that the paint will keep shrinking onto the model and hardening if you let it, and that it's much tougher and less detail-obscuring if you do.

Finally, if you are using old cans of spray primer, or if they are nearing the end of the can, don't use them on your models - you run a high risk of getting a fuzzy finish. I keep the older cans for undercoating terrain, where the fuzzing may not matter or is even beneficial.

5) Painting
When painting, avoid touching the models (I see you have them on corks already - good man!).

When applying your paints, use a white ceramic palette (an old plate or tile works well) to put paint onto and add a little water to thin them down. It takes a few more coats to cover than just using the paint straight, but you get a lovely smooth finish and it makes jobs like highlighting much easier. Plus, it's easier to correct mistakes with a clean wet brush as you go!

Another benefit of a palette is that it lets you put paint onto the brush in a controlled manner; so you don't overload the brush, or pick up any dry bits that may have fallen off the rim into the pot, and you can twirl the brush a little to get a nice point.

6) Sealing
When the paint job is finished, I seal them with varnish before touching them - this stops my greasy fingers from spoiling the delicate acrylic model paints!

I start with a non-yellowing UV-resistant brush-on varnish (DIY store again, or use the same stuff for step (2) as for this step).

Then, after a day's drying, I use a spray-on matte varnish that kills the shine (Testor's Dullcote).

Sealing has the further benefit of smoothing the final finish some more, adding protection to the model (helping it resist chips and scuffs), and still provides a nice end result.

I also find that the sealing stage helps to make the colours look more saturated.




Phew, a long wall of text! To be fair, most of the above is actually very fast (and you're likely doing much of it anyway) - it may seem complicated only because of all the explaining.

You can of course do a lot more, but trying to achieve a clean smooth surface before you prime, when you prime, when you paint, and after you paint is all very straightforward and will improve painting results regardless of anyone's skill.

A very good case for this was made by Seb Archer in the tutorial here (http://www.mainlymedieval.com/ozpainters/viewtopic.php?t=878). It showed me that the difference good prep work makes to a model is huge! So much so that it's never a stage I skip on any more, as even a simple painting effort can be made to look much superior.

Anyway, I hope that my comments here help you in your next batch. For the models you have already done, you can strip and do them again if you want, or you can try a couple of thick coats of gloss varnish and a dusting with matte spray if you want to "fix" the fizziness a bit. :)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on September 18, 2015, 04:19:14 AM
I can solve your priming woes with one word: Dupli-color.

If you live in the states that is. Dupli-color is genius and completely unlike anything else I've seen. Not only is it beautifully smooth and super thin--pretty much impossible to obscure detail with it, but it never runs and has an amazing fan tip that is way easier on your fingers and can be swiveled for up-down passes or side-side passes. Comes in black, white, red, and dark gray, maybe other colors. The only caveat is that in cold weather it comes out as a runny liquid. It's car primer and IIRC $5-6.

I lie the figures face down on paper on a piece of cardboard inside a spray box, spray, turn 90 degrees and repeat. Then wait 20 min to dry, turn them over on their backs and repeat.

Then I do a pass with black paint to get paint in any deep crevices, and unless they are mostly armored or all dark colors I stand them up and give them a dusting with white - what is called "zenithal" underpainting for some reason.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 18, 2015, 05:06:35 AM
Hey Spooktalker

I googled Dupli-Color... and there is tons of stuff.... can you take a look at one of your cans and comment on which one are you referring to?
(http://www.optimaforums.com/forum/attachments/optima-diy/5869d1333332177-diy-painting-rear-diffuser-dscn2256.jpg)

Maybe this is it?
https://youtu.be/qYLYjN-PsFw
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Gailbraithe on September 18, 2015, 05:47:09 AM
This is the one I think they're talking about:

(http://i.imgur.com/zIg6JIo.jpg?1)

It's the Dupli-Color Sandable Primer (Black).  I know for a fact that the catalog painters for Privateer Press (i.e. full-time professional miniature painters) used Dupli-Color Sandable Primer (Black) as the base for all their models, and I strongly suspect (based on  the identical can size, nozzle type and having used both) that the black primer Privateer Press sells as P3 Black Primer is just repackahed Dupli-Color Sandable Primer (Black).
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on September 21, 2015, 07:45:08 PM
I have now finished all the colours which are common to all 10 models.  So, metal armour & weapons, flesh, hair/beards, leather belts, etc. all just about finished.  I'm now going to move on to working on individual models until each is finished, except for the bases which will be done together as a batch at the end.  Once I've finished my first one, I'll post some photos.  It will be good to get into some colours and detail work, I have to say it's been a bit of a chore so far.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on September 21, 2015, 09:02:13 PM
So, Revfan, how are your Fighting Men going?

I know I'm a long way from completing my set, but my mind keeps drifting to the next box set in the challenge.  Have you got the 2006 - Specialists set?  That was my first ever set, bought from Games Workshop in Dalling Road, Hammersmith, back when it was the only Games Workshop store!  It would be great to take a trip down Memory Lane with this one.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 21, 2015, 09:33:41 PM
Hey
I think I am about as far as my skill level will take me on the Fighting Men...  So I am moving to the basing stage with those.  I am embarrassed to put my stuff up here because its so amateurish, but there is so much outstanding constructive criticism that I'd be foolish not to post em.

I have found that some days are better painting days than others.... specifically, my hands are "steadier" on some days more than on others...  

I was watching some tutorials about painting eyes/faces over the weekend and had some success when trying the techniques out.  Last night I went to paint more eyes (on some loose hobbits I had laying around) and it was abysmal.  

Seems like I take one step forward, two steps back.

I was trying to paint the pupils with a 00 brush.. and my fingers felt like sausages and I couldn't get anything that looked right.  So I tried a 5/0 brush instead.

The brush was so small that the paint almost "dried" on the brush by the time I got the tip anywhere near the figures face.  I got a magnifying glass and bright lights (hot)... which were not helping.  So I thinned the paint out some, and as soon as I touched the eyes, it would run all over into a gigantic black eye...

Ughhh.

Specialist up next!  I have the set so its cool with me!  Then maybe Denizens of the Swamp?



Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on September 21, 2015, 09:41:29 PM
Don't sweat the details, just try to enjoy the process and relax.  It will be interesting to look back on this set when you've done a few more, and see how you are improving.  

Painting figures is one of those hobbies which can be so frustrating at times that you just want to throw all your paints in the bin, but then you'll paint a great face, or a great sword-blade, or a fold on a cloak that looks just perfect, and it will all be worth while.  

Eyes are tough though, difficult to get just right, easy to screw up completely.  Sometimes you just have to accept that OK is good enough, and push those bad boys around your gaming table!

Cool, Specialists next, then Denizens of the Swamp after that, then.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on September 21, 2015, 09:42:46 PM
Sorry, double post.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 22, 2015, 05:32:39 AM
Thanks for the encouragement!

It helps that my target audience (besides the posting for critique here) is a 10 year old boy and anybody we can trick into playing an RPG with us (we are leaning towards castles and crusades).
Despite how bad they are, my 10yo thinks "they are really cool".  If one is particularly horrendous, I just tell him that, "I wanted it to look like your grandfather...on your mother's side".
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: maxxon on September 22, 2015, 06:42:35 AM
Quote from: Revfan on September 21, 2015, 09:33:41 PM
I was trying to paint the pupils with a 00 brush.. and my fingers felt like sausages and I couldn't get anything that looked right.  So I tried a 5/0 brush instead.

I use a 005 technical pen to do the pupils and eyebrows. It's also useful for panel lining and adding patterns to cloth (use different colors). Here's a couple examples of patterns I did a while back:

(http://www.swob.kvy.fi/photo-archive/20060528/small/4.jpg) (http://www.swob.kvy.fi/photo-archive/20060528/small/13.jpg)

Though if you use one with water soluble ink, you MUST use spray varnish. Brush-on varnish will make the ink run. Still, I think water soluble is better than permanent because you can fix mistakes with a wet q-tip.

If you're uncomfortable doing eyes, you can just put a darkish brown shadow there.

I know your problem, though. The key to fine detail work is not getting a teeny-tiny brush. The key is getting a good quality brush that comes to a fine point -- and controlling the flow. Finding the right level paint consistency is something you'll just have to learn. I typically test the brush by drawing a line on the palette before touching the model if I'm doing fine lines.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 22, 2015, 07:45:32 AM
Quote
The key to fine detail work is not getting a teeny-tiny brush. The key is getting a good quality brush that comes to a fine point
This has been a hard lesson (that I am still learning).  I spent some money on some brushes thinking that would solve my problem, but there is still a technique to learn... practice makes perfect I guess.

Might try your pen idea though, sounds intriguing!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: jon_1066 on September 22, 2015, 11:16:57 AM
I also used to use a technical pen but nowadays I simply don't bother painting the eyes.  I find they almost always come out far too bulging or boss eyed.  At the sort of ranges you will be using the figures it is entirely pointless.  Crazy bulging eyes show up badly but just normal skin tones with shading you don't even notice the eyes aren't painted.

Also re spray paints I now use Tamiya model primer  - it gives a perfect flat finish.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Major_Gilbear on September 22, 2015, 01:35:56 PM
@ Revfan:

Please don't stress out with your painting efforts - this is supposed to be fun after all! :)

I found that getting a nice sharp-pointed brush of a decent size what what most improved my painting. So much so, that I use the same brush for doing the eyes as for the rest of the miniature, and the smaller brush I also bought at the same time (thinking I might need it for eyes) never even got used!

For painting eyes, there's a few helpful tricks that may assist you:

1) Paint the eyes first. You don't even have to finish the rest of the face at the same time, but putting a base coat down, doing the eyes, and then tidying up around them is much easier than putting eyes on a finished model. Much easier to get them the same size too.

2) Most people are not ambidextrous, so if you paint the eye closes to your main hand, and then turn the model upside-down, it's easier to reach both eyes comfortably. If the shapes are not identical, don't worry - you can tidy up the shape afterwards before you do the pupils.

3) I start with a black oval, overpaint with a white oval (leaving a little back around the edge), and then a stripe through with the black again.
I do the first black oval a bit big so that the second white oval is easier to paint on, and then reduce the the black oval back towards the eye using a little bit of flesh colour - this makes getting the black line around the eye easier too.

This (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhH-GWvHG00) YouTube tutorial may be better for explaining the above.

It's good enough to see that the eye is painted, and is not too bug-eyed either. Some people suggest using a dark brown and an ivory rather then black and white, but I find that the eyes are so small on most models that the harder contrast of black and white is preferred.

Alternatively, you can just use a little dark wash in the eye sockets - doing two passes with the wash to get a nice deep colour. For small eyes/faces, this is often enough if they are not display-level models.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on September 22, 2015, 01:47:42 PM
Major_Gilbear
Ha! That is the exact tutorial I watched over the weekend to get me started in that direction!  I am still working on using the tips provided in it.

Don't get me wrong, I AM having fun with it though, and its more fun when my skill improve!

Thanks! 

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 05, 2015, 09:15:38 PM
Well, it's been another couple of weeks, but I'm finally making some good progress.  But you'll just have to take my word for that, because I left my camera at work again.  Anyway, I'm close to finishing 5 of them, and about half-way done on the other 5.

I'm enjoying using these Vallejo paints, which are new to me, although they need a hell of a lot of shaking to get the good stuff out.  I'm assuming that the bottles are best stored on their sides, or even upside down?  Anyone else with experience of such matters?

So, despite having started my miniature painting career 35 years ago, I feel a bit like I'm learning again.  I don't think I've painted more than 15 - 20 miniatures in the last 10 years.  This could be down to family commitments keeping me away from the painting desk, but more likely that, since miniatures become my job a few years back, they also stopped being my hobby.  I think this is a good way to get my hobby time back!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 06, 2015, 08:54:50 PM
Right, I've finished the first 5.  I'm not completely happy with them, but they will have to do.  I'll take some better photos when all 10 are finished, and I have better lighting available.  Time to accept 'good enough' and move on to the next batch!

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2005a_zpsg3qkfopp.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2005a_zpsg3qkfopp.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Arundel on October 06, 2015, 09:01:53 PM
Those look wonderful--you really capture their flavor well. This has been an inspirational thread on several levels, as I've been considering getting an old school dungeon bashing project going for some time using old Grenadier and Heritage models as the core of the collection. It's really nice to see you can enjoy other figures in addition to those produced by your company, beautiful though those may be!

I'll follow both your future progresses with interest.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: m4jumbo on October 06, 2015, 10:09:23 PM
Looking good!  Lots of character in these figs.   Looking forward to seeing the next 5. 

I'd love to get my box of these out and paint them if I wasn't working on a bunch of other figures already. (Including the Otherworld Ogres.)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: fred on October 06, 2015, 10:35:14 PM
They have come out very nicely, I really like the look of the group. I didn't have Grenadier figures back in the day, it was all Citadel in the shops around me - but these are cool old school figures.

One question - what's the 4th figure doing? Is he stamping on a rat or something? Or is it just an odd photo angle?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Arundel on October 06, 2015, 10:40:09 PM
I think he's supposed to be kicking down a door, though now you say it, maybe he is trying to step on a pesky rat. Not being able to tell is one of the delights of the classic minis.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: m4jumbo on October 07, 2015, 02:01:36 AM
Quote from: fred on October 06, 2015, 10:35:14 PM
snip
One question - what's the 4th figure doing? Is he stamping on a rat or something? Or is it just an odd photo angle?

Kicking a door as Arundel stated.  He is even labeled as such on the box. Such classic goodness.

(http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w95/M4jumbo/General/Miscellaneous/2005%20Box.jpg) (http://s174.photobucket.com/user/M4jumbo/media/General/Miscellaneous/2005%20Box.jpg.html)

(http://i174.photobucket.com/albums/w95/M4jumbo/General/Miscellaneous/2005%20Insert.jpg) (http://s174.photobucket.com/user/M4jumbo/media/General/Miscellaneous/2005%20Insert.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 07, 2015, 11:40:02 AM
Quote from: Arundel on October 06, 2015, 09:01:53 PM
It's really nice to see you can enjoy other figures in addition to those produced by your company......

Otherworld Miniatures wouldn't exist were it not for the inspiration provided by the work of Minifigs, early Citadel, Grenadier and Ral Partha, to name just a few.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: psullie on October 07, 2015, 12:26:22 PM
fantastic job Richard, these are almost '15mm' by todays standards
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Major_Gilbear on October 07, 2015, 01:39:56 PM
Quote from: otherworld on October 06, 2015, 08:54:50 PM
Right, I've finished the first 5.  I'm not completely happy with them, but they will have to do.  I'll take some better photos when all 10 are finished, and I have better lighting available.  Time to accept 'good enough' and move on to the next batch!

I'm sorry to hear you're unhappy with them - I think they look very nice! What are you hoping to get right next time?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Arundel on October 07, 2015, 03:49:18 PM
Yes, they look GREAT to me!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: fred on October 07, 2015, 05:53:20 PM
Quote from: Arundel on October 06, 2015, 10:40:09 PM
I think he's supposed to be kicking down a door, though now you say it, maybe he is trying to step on a pesky rat. Not being able to tell is one of the delights of the classic minis.

Ta

I think it's the angle of his head that makes him look more that he is stamping on something. When I have had to kick a door, I have always tried to use the bottom of my foot, not the toes! Ouch!!

Scale of old figures is odd, I've got a few Ral Patha from the late 80s and they are tiny.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 07, 2015, 09:27:36 PM
I have 3 more nearly finished tonight, just 2 to go now.  Unfortunately, 1 of those 2 is the guy with the 2-handed sword.  It's a pretty crappy old sculpt, but it's not going to paint itself!  I hope to get the whole set complete by the end of the coming weekend, then it's on to 2006 - Specialists next week.

The Specialists set holds a special place in my heart.  It was my first set of Grenadier figures, bought from Games Workshop in Hammersmith, when it was the only Games Workshop store in the world! 

I think it was late 1980, and I was visiting London for the very first time, a wide-eyed 15 year old on a school trip from Cornwall.  My pal Steve was an old hand at visiting the capital.  His parents were divorced and his Dad lived in London, so he visited regularly.  He was my guide, and he was wise in the art of finding his way from Ravenscourt Park tube station to the hallowed ground of Dalling Road.

Our visit was not exactly legal, which added some spice to the memory.  Our school group was visiting the Imperial War Museum, and 3 of us decided to sneak off while the teachers weren't looking.  Two hours later we were back with the group, the only clue to our absence - smug grins and Games Workshop carrier bags full of swag (including my AD&D Specialists set). 

Unbelievably, no teacher had even noticed that we were missing, so we even avoided the severe bollocking that we had all expected to get!  Happy days.  :)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: fred on October 07, 2015, 10:26:05 PM
Cool story.

A mate and me did something similar - we had a school trip to London - can't remember why now, but I think it was in 6th form. We went to a newsagent, to look at a copy of White Dwarf, and an A to Z to work out where we had to go. I can't now remember the inside of the GW shop :(

We bought the Drastik Plastic figures, I got Orcs, I think he got Dwarves. So this must have been a few years later.

Happy, if only partially remembered, days!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: LeadAsbestos on October 07, 2015, 11:04:09 PM
This thread makes me want to get the set w the intellect devoured and carrion Crawler... Dwellers below, IIRC? Really the only set from Grenadier I want back. . Still a few gems, and lovely to see them get a proper painting!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Arundel on October 08, 2015, 12:39:05 AM
These are great stories. Otherworld, that school trip sounds great. Not sure if this is only true of the USA, but I think the 70's and 80's were simpler times in some respects--when I look back on what teachers did and didn't do back then, it all seems so very relaxed, if that's the word (our junior high science teacher, for example, took us down to the tide pools several times a month, with no insurance or permission forms, and peacefully read his book while we clambered over the rocks and generally tempted fate...which would never, ever, happen now). Everybody is so tense these days (again, maybe it's only here), I can assure you the police would have been scouring the city and countryside for miles about if a student did what you and your friend did that day. Sad, really.

I agree that the Grenadier creatures were some of the best of the lot. Their Beholder, Roper and Mind Flayer sculpts were actually quite effective, I think, in a lumpy sort of way. A number of them can be seen here: http://greyhawk22.rssing.com/chan-10654614/all_p18.html
But my favourites from those days were probably the Minifig orcs and hobgoblins. Our local hobby shop in Palos Verdes had a set of those painted orcs in their display window that I would have given my soul to own. I can still picture them to this day!

Looking forward to seeing how you do the specialists!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 08, 2015, 10:00:58 PM
Wow Otherworld!

It was really worth the wait!  That is some awesome stuff right there!  And gives me a lot of inspiration.... with a healthy dose of embarrassment for my offerings...
But, I learned a few things from trial and error, and, of course, the great constructive criticism here.  I also got the FOUNDRY MINIATURES PAINTING AND MODELING GUIDE, which was recommended.  That gives me even more ideas.

Also.. I see you are in Cambridge.  I used to live in Newmarket (1997-2002)

And guys...
Feel free to join in on the fun!  We are going to do box # 2006 Grenadier's Advanced Dungeons and Dragons "The Specialist" so if you have the box, or even individual minis from the set
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/7/6192/6071524384_4f67c25662.jpg)

Don't hesitate to get on board!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 09, 2015, 08:46:18 PM
Right, I'm finished with 2005 - Fighting Men.  I've run out of Dullcote, so these are un-varnished, but they'll have to do for now.  Looking forward to cracking on with 2006 - Specialists, but that's for next week.  Now it's time for a beer (or 2)!

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2005a_zps4jdup2ur.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2005a_zps4jdup2ur.jpg.html)
(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2005b_zps9zbrp7nw.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2005b_zps9zbrp7nw.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 09, 2015, 09:45:54 PM
Looks Amazing!

When/if you get a chance, could you post some more pics - different angles? 

Makes me want to go over mine one more time!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on October 09, 2015, 10:11:23 PM
Quote from: otherworld on August 30, 2015, 11:50:16 AM
This sounds like an interesting project.  I've got all the old Grenadier AD&D sets, and have been wanting to get started on painting them for some time.  This could be exactly the thing I need to kick me into action.  So, I'm in, 2005 Fighting Men, here I come!

Here's my collection, I have some work on my hands!

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/SolidGold1_zpsplq4xtkm.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/SolidGold1_zpsplq4xtkm.jpg.html)




Holy crap!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 09, 2015, 10:15:55 PM
OK, will do, next time I have the camera set up.  Don't worry about going back over your own stuff though, let's move on and see how we improve on the next set.  There's parts of these that I'd like to improve on, but I'd much rather put them to one side and start some new figures now.

Have you sorted out your primer now?  I always prefer to use a good quality paint for undercoating.  You rarely look at a well-painted miniature and say 'I really wish I'd used cheaper paints!'  ;)

I have to admit, I've cheated a bit, and my 2006 set is already primed and based!  

Anyone else joining us for this one?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 09, 2015, 10:27:59 PM
Quote from: Too Bo Coo on October 09, 2015, 10:11:23 PM

Holy crap!

That's our birthright, Erik!

I have pretty much the whole range in my collection, and to my eternal shame, not a splash of paint on any of it, until now!

The only figure I'm really missing to complete my collection is this chap...

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/goldwizard_zpsvfiuhyhk.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/goldwizard_zpsvfiuhyhk.jpg.html)

....the Gold Wizard which was part of Grenadier's 'solid gold' promotion when the sets were first released.  If anyone has one that they'd be prepared to trade or sell, please let me know.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on October 09, 2015, 11:22:25 PM
Quote from: otherworld on October 09, 2015, 10:27:59 PM
That's our birthright, Erik!

I have pretty much the whole range in my collection, and to my eternal shame, not a splash of paint on any of it, until now!

The only figure I'm really missing to complete my collection is this chap...

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/goldwizard_zpsvfiuhyhk.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/goldwizard_zpsvfiuhyhk.jpg.html)

....the Gold Wizard which was part of Grenadier's 'solid gold' promotion when the sets were first released.  If anyone has one that they'd be prepared to trade or sell, please let me know.



I just inventoried my Otherworld collection today... I'm about 75% to total!  They are a joy to collect and to paint.  Great work BTW!  Very nice to see paint on them :D
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on October 09, 2015, 11:22:56 PM
And if I come across Goldie I'll be sure to give you a heads up!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 11, 2015, 07:55:09 PM
Right, I've made a decent start on the Specialists.  They're all based, undercoated, and the metal parts and flesh all done.  As well as that, 5 have the main colours blocked in.  I'm aiming to get these finished by the end of October, but I suspect that they'll be done sooner than that.  Then, my plan is to finished one of the smaller, 10-figure sets every month.  That means all 13 will be done by this time next year, if I can manage to stick with it!

But I have to say, I'm really enjoying working on these old models.  Some of them I've owned for more than 30 years, so it's about time!

Obviously this set was supposed to provide miniatures for the new character classes and races introduced to AD&D.  The basic classes (apart from Clerics) had boxes of their own, but 2006 included figures for a Ranger, Paladin, Assassin, Bard, Druid, (Gnome) Illusionist, Monk, Half-Orc, and a Magic User and Cleric.  I'm still puzzled though as to why the Assassin is armed with a mace - that always annoyed me - and I remember converting my original Assassin model so he was armed with a curved dagger, and painted it so the dagger was dripping with green venom!

Also, the insert sheet in my box has a few odd errors on it.  Firstly it shows 11 figures in the photo, including one cleric which is not included in the set, and the bard is different to the one included.  The text lists the set as 2005 - Specialists, when it should be 2006, and the copyright notice at the bottom right spells Grenadier as 'Grendier'.  I guess we take spell-check for granted these days. :)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 11, 2015, 08:28:42 PM
Quote
Then, my plan is to finished one of the smaller, 10-figure sets every month.  That means all 13 will be done by this time next year, if I can manage to stick with it!
I am in on that. 

I think I have a good number of the sets... so if we can do the ones I have first, it will give me time to find the ones I don't have so I can keep up!



Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 11, 2015, 09:13:25 PM
Where do you live, Revfan?  I think I have a spare set of 2001 - Wizards.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 11, 2015, 10:34:35 PM
Used to live near Cambridge in the UK (Newmarket)

But now I am in Stuttgart....

Ironically, I didn't have the Wizard set... and I just picked one up via eBay and I got it a few days ago.  I've got a "wanted" ad for old school minis...  And I'll go through my boxes to see what i have/am missing.

You just collect the Gold Boxes?  I have some of the same sets, but in the Dragon Lords Box (though I prefer the Gold Box)

**I just Checked my stash**

I have
2001 Wizards
2003 Halfling Party
2004 Hireling Crew
2005 Fighting Men
2006 Specialist
2010 Denizens
2011 Orcs of the Severed Hand/Orcs Lair
2017 Ninja & Samurai Adventurers
2019 Royal Guardsmen of the Undead Legion

Action Art
8001 Explorers (missing female elf fighter/magic user and Watchmen with Latern
8002 Monsters (missing assassin)
8004 Fantasy Fiends

6002 Fantasy Lords - Skeleton Raiders of the Undead
6005 Fantasy Lords - Knights/Fighters Men at Arms

10-301 The Best of Ral Partha Demon, Trolls, Orcs and Goblins

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 12, 2015, 09:04:21 PM
Yep, I'm just an AD&D line collector really, as far as Grenadier goes, although I like some of the Dragon of the Month series too.

Anyway, I have done my first 4 Specialists - the Monk, Assassin, Mage and Cleric.  They're not yet dullcoted, so there's a bit of shine here and there where it shouldn't be.  I've enjoyed working on these over the weekend, lots of fun, and lots of memories.  :)

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2006a_zpsftzewat3.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2006a_zpsftzewat3.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 12, 2015, 09:37:58 PM
Yours look great!  I cleaned mine today... and will undercoat em tomorrow morning.


Here is a question for you....
Quote
Right, I've made a decent start on the Specialists.  They're all based, undercoated, and the metal parts and flesh all done.  As well as that, 5 have the main colours blocked in.

When you say "all based" does that mean that they are just on a card/cork etc or that you have "finished" the base (with the paint, grass etc)?

I stick mine on corks to paint, then base after painting.

Pros & Cons?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 12, 2015, 10:01:22 PM
All personal choice really.  I do my basing before painting.  I glue them to pennies, and build up some basic textured groundwork with Miliput.  

Then I paint the miniature, and I hold on to the base while painting.  I never really got on with mounting on corks or paint pots.

When the miniature is done, I paint the base, add a bit of tufted grass, paint the edge of the coin in black, and it's done.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Reed on October 13, 2015, 11:44:13 AM
Otherworld, i really love the backgrounds you use. They make your minis look even better !
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: fred on October 13, 2015, 08:30:31 PM
These look great.

Its really cool to see old school miniatures being painted up, and its cool that they are ones that I don't recognise, as I was ignorant of Grenadier back in the day.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: m4jumbo on October 14, 2015, 01:35:11 PM
Quote from: otherworld on October 12, 2015, 09:04:21 PM

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2006a_zpsftzewat3.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2006a_zpsftzewat3.jpg.html)

Otherworld, I like how the purple robes turned out on the Mage (and the other figs clothing in general too.)  Looks like an ink wash was used?  Is it possible to get a quick description of your process?

Thanks. Looking forward to more Specialists.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Arundel on October 14, 2015, 04:22:25 PM
Interesting. I was going to ask how you did the cream fabric, particularly on the kneeling cleric. Do tell!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 14, 2015, 09:36:10 PM
I don't really use washes too often, only really on base work and sometimes on leather boots.  I find it often leaves a grimy finish.  I tried a was on the monk's jacket, and that ended up looking too dark in the folds, so I've repainted it since the last photo.

I usually give clothing a base coat of a colour which is a bit darker than my planned finishing colour.  Then I pick out all the folds with the actual base colour.  When I'm happy with that, I'll highlight the folds with a lighter shade, then add a final lighter highlight to the very upper edges, where the most light is going to be falling.  So, usually just 4 stages, and I often find myself going back over bits that I've done wrong, but it seems to work OK.

Anyway, I've now finished 7 out of 10 of the Specialists, and the last 3 are about half-way done.  Hopefully I'll get the whole set finished this coming weekend. 

While I've been working on these, I've been doing some prep work for the next set, 2010 - Denizens of the Swamp.  I wanted to start with the Lizardmen, some of my favourite D&D monsters, and while I was basing them I decided to break open my 104 blister pack.  So, with the Lizardman Champion in box 8002 as well, that's 6 Lizardmen in the range.  I'm going to paint all 6 together to make sure there's some consistency in colours.  Then I'll move on to the Gnolls, Troll, Shambling Mound, etc.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: antimatter on October 14, 2015, 10:36:31 PM
This makes me want to start up the box of halflings that is all primed up and ready to go.

(http://antimatter-games.com/temp/halflings_2.jpg)

not sure what to do about the bases since they are so small though.


I did the hirelings a long time back and they were really fun. http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26896.0 (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26896.0)


and the fighting men, but not as nicely as Otherworld's.  http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26332.msg320088#msg320088 (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26332.msg320088#msg320088)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Arundel on October 14, 2015, 11:30:46 PM
Many thanks for the tips, Otherworld. I'll look forward to seeing some of your baddies.

Those are some great looking halflings.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: LeadAsbestos on October 15, 2015, 12:32:38 AM
Denizens is another of my favorites! Love the lizardmen!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 15, 2015, 09:19:19 AM
Quote from: antimatter on October 14, 2015, 10:36:31 PM
This makes me want to start up the box of halflings that is all primed up and ready to go.

(http://antimatter-games.com/temp/halflings_2.jpg)

not sure what to do about the bases since they are so small though.


I did the hirelings a long time back and they were really fun. http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26896.0 (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26896.0)


and the fighting men, but not as nicely as Otherworld's.  http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26332.msg320088#msg320088 (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26332.msg320088#msg320088)

How about we do the Halflings set next then, after the Denizens of the Swamp?  Feel free to make a start on them now, and we can try to catch up as quickly as we can!  Anyone else out there want to join in?  It would be great to get a few more people working on the same models.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 15, 2015, 11:18:27 AM
That is a Great Plan!  I have the Halfings... so I am in on that!

Antimatter... could you go ahead a post a few pics "Here" of your Specialist & Fighting Men?  It would be cool to have the Golden Box series together for those needing inspiration to join!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Duncan McDane on October 15, 2015, 01:31:40 PM
Well, as it is I've found 2 Halfling models ( one standing on the others' shoulders, missing the tip of the spear ) and the one leaning against a tree smoking pipe. I also found a hireling, the one with hammer and chisel, got absolutely no use whatsoever for him and it's not the best cast I've ever seen but hey, who cares  :D.
So time to put my money were my mouth is and start cleaning the models...

Btw: Otherworld, I didn't want to spam this topic with too many oohs and aahs without contributing but it's a great collection you've got and you gave them a suitable, well deserved splendid paintjob with a great choice of colours. Truly inspiring  :-*
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 15, 2015, 02:39:24 PM
Quote
not sure what to do about the bases since they are so small though.

I've never based a mini before... so to be in the club and hang with you big dogs, I had to try my hand at it.

I saw in a post, on some forum (maybe here) that somebody was using these little dished out discs.  Apparently they are make your own necklace/pendant blanks. I got mine on ebay, and they come in lots of different sizes
Got mine on ebay... Click *HERE* they were kinda cheap (http://"http://www.ebay.de/itm/381316783239")

Anyway, I made mine simple... stone floor for dungeon crawling.  I guess you can remove the tab, but it makes a great handle.
(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/base.JPG)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: antimatter on October 15, 2015, 03:50:27 PM
Quote from: Revfan on October 15, 2015, 11:18:27 AM
That is a Great Plan!  I have the Halfings... so I am in on that!

Antimatter... could you go ahead a post a few pics "Here" of your Specialist & Fighting Men?  It would be cool to have the Golden Box series together for those needing inspiration to join!


The other thread has the step by step guide

(http://www.antimatter-games.com/temp/hirelings_10.jpg)

(http://www.antimatter-games.com/temp/hirelings_11.jpg)

these were just pics, with no guide

(http://www.lonebrushman.net/images/ebay/2011.2.10/gren_fm_1.jpg)

(http://www.lonebrushman.net/images/ebay/2011.2.10/gren_fm_2.jpg)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: antimatter on October 15, 2015, 03:51:13 PM
Quote from: otherworld on October 15, 2015, 09:19:19 AM
How about we do the Halflings set next then, after the Denizens of the Swamp?  Feel free to make a start on them now, and we can try to catch up as quickly as we can!  Anyone else out there want to join in?  It would be great to get a few more people working on the same models.

I still have to find them again. This was almost five years ago.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 15, 2015, 06:15:14 PM
I modified the Original Post to include a check list for the Grenadier Gold Line if you want to hunt em down or see what is missing out of your collection.

If you are playing along/painting along on this thread or want to, you can also get the Grenadier "Dragon Lords" series with the same numbers.  They were a re-issue of the earlier sets.

Here is 2011 for a pretty good price in the UK/Ebay  it was "Orc's Lair" in the Gold Series and re-titled "Orcs of the Severed Hand"
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Grenadier-Dragon-Lords-Set-ORCS-of-the-SEVERED-HAND-1985-complete-ADD-19859-/311464635545
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on October 15, 2015, 06:34:22 PM
Quote from: antimatter on October 15, 2015, 03:51:13 PM
I still have to find them again. This was almost five years ago.

Are those pics your work?  Fantastic!!!  Do you have a link to the step by step?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 15, 2015, 08:00:04 PM
Quote from: Revfan on October 15, 2015, 06:15:14 PM
I modified the Original Post to include a check list for the Grenadier Gold Line if you want to hunt em down or see what is missing out of your collection.

If you are playing along/painting along on this thread or want to, you can also get the Grenadier "Dragon Lords" series with the same numbers.  They were a re-issue of the earlier sets.

Here is 2011 for a pretty good price in the UK/Ebay  it was "Orc's Lair" in the Gold Series and re-titled "Orcs of the Severed Hand"
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Grenadier-Dragon-Lords-Set-ORCS-of-the-SEVERED-HAND-1985-complete-ADD-19859-/311464635545



Just a quick note to point out that, when Grenadier lost the AD&D licence (or it expired and wasn't renewed), they changed the Solid Gold line to Dragon Lords and changed the packaging.  In many cases, the miniatures inside were the same, but in some sets a few miniatures were changed.  In a few cases though, the miniatures where switched for completely different models.  This seems to be the case with the Orcs' Lair set and the Denizens of the Swamp/Horrors of the Marsh set too.

Revfan, I don't think it's a problem of some of your sets are later Dragon Lords versions.  It will be fun to see how they changed.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 15, 2015, 08:56:35 PM
Funny... After I wrote that, I went downstairs to the lab and looked over my stuff.  I have both Orcs Lair and Orcs of the Severed hand... they are almost completely different
Orcs Lair (Gold Line)
(http://www.dndlead.com/grenadier/ADandD/2011.jpg)

Orcs of the Severed Hand
(http://www.miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/images/thumb/f/f8/G-dlfbs-2011-cat.jpg/800px-G-dlfbs-2011-cat.jpg)

Also, I have a gold line box of Specialist... but the figs must have been swapped around at some point as my Assassin has a lowered mace ala the Fantasy Lords Box, while the Gold Line Assassin has the raised mace... *Checked that too... according to the Miniwiki. there was an Alternate Assassin with lowered mace.*
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: antimatter on October 15, 2015, 09:20:48 PM
Quote from: Too Bo Coo on October 15, 2015, 06:34:22 PM
Are those pics your work?  Fantastic!!!  Do you have a link to the step by step?


The links were there but buried in the text a bit

hirelings
http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26896.0 (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26896.0)

Fighting men
http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26332.msg320088#msg320088 (http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=26332.msg320088#msg320088)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 16, 2015, 09:12:45 PM
Right, I've finished my 2006 set.  Here they are....

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2006a_edited-1_zpsgajuoxko.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2006a_edited-1_zpsgajuoxko.jpg.html)
(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2006b_zpstabmfd4n.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2006b_zpstabmfd4n.jpg.html)

Lizardmen next..........
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on October 16, 2015, 09:32:18 PM
Wow, not only nice work, but and impressive speed as well. I only got around to painting one of my fighting men, which is already wating for some dullcoat for a few days.

I'll just post a model now and then again if you guys don't mind. :)
I sadly also have only four (incomplete) boxes, so it would anyhow be a short trip for me.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 17, 2015, 05:43:10 AM
Braxandur
Post what you got/What you are missing.  I have some extras/incomplete sets that I don't mind re-homing.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Duncan McDane on October 17, 2015, 11:45:05 AM
Quote from: Revfan on October 17, 2015, 05:43:10 AM
I have some extras/incomplete sets that I don't mind re-homing.

Revfan, you don't know what you've gotten yourself into...
Makes Pandora's Box like a harmless Childrens' Surprise Egg.  lol
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on October 17, 2015, 07:20:40 PM
Quote from: Duncan McDane on October 17, 2015, 11:45:05 AM
Revfan, you don't know what you've gotten yourself into...
Makes Pandora's Box like a harmless Childrens' Surprise Egg.  lol

Pah, look who's talking, going through your lead pile feels like visiting a museum of old treasures   :-*
Anyhow, our son is staying at my parents place for a week so with some luck I'll have everything sorted out and hopefully get some more painting done.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 17, 2015, 10:30:39 PM
Revfan, or anyone else!  Do you have a spare copy of this version of the Djinni from the Tomb of Spells set?

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/adddjinni_zpscu2n0axt.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/adddjinni_zpscu2n0axt.jpg.html)

I have the version with the urn and vaporous lower section, but not this version which is cut off at the waist.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 18, 2015, 05:11:50 PM
I have the Dragon Lords set... and by then, they seemed to have replaced a lot of em...
(http://www.miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/images/f/f2/G-dlfbs-5004-cat.jpg)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on October 18, 2015, 11:21:40 PM
I just went through the sets... it's a mess.

About ten years ago I bought the AD&D sets 2001, 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2007.... Going through I see a lot of decay (almost lead rot) and bad mould lines as well as missing models. I never really noticed as all the boxes contained the correct amount of miniatures and the picture on the back of the boxes was missing, but curiously enough, it seems that there was a near complete set 2006 in between the other sets. Really weird  :D

So far I seem to miss:
(http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~tpope/sol/grenadier/images/2001.jpg)
2001 Wizards: D and E

(http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~tpope/sol/grenadier/images/2002.jpg)
2002 Halflings: C, E and G
(http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~tpope/sol/grenadier/images/2004.jpg)
2004 Hirelings: B,E and I
https://www.flickr.com/photos/64202339@N00/13807921854 (https://www.flickr.com/photos/64202339@N00/13807921854)
2005 Fighting men: A, C, D, F, J
(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2006b_zpstabmfd4n.jpg)
2006 Specialists: The first and last fourth in the row

(http://www.cs.cmu.edu/~tpope/sol/grenadier/images/2007.jpg)
2007 females: the first one from the left in the bottom row.

Any help in getting these sets complete (or sets I dno't have at all) is very much appriciated, though I have feeling that with this mismatch it's not a bad idea to just start looking on ebay for complete boxes.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 19, 2015, 10:22:43 AM
I don't know if it will help you much, but if it can, you can have em' free (just PM me your mailing address)

Halflings
G (the camp guard)

Fighting Men
A Spearman (I have, but the back bit of his spear is gone)
C Knight (I have em, but the last 1/2 of his sword is gone)
D Crossbowman ( Missing Crossbow)

If you don't mind working a little magic on em, you can have em.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 20, 2015, 08:19:14 PM
Just a quick sitrep from Otherworld Towers.

I've started my prep work on 6 Lizardmen from various sets.  They're base-coated and ready for some detail work on those hundreds of scales next.  They are going to take ages if I'm going to do them properly, and I'm beginning to wonder whether doing all 6 together was such a great idea.

While the Miliput was setting on the Lizardmen bases, I got out my 5009 - Dragon's Lair set, just to have a quick look, and I've started to assemble it.  It's going to need significant surgery, I think.  The metal seems to be so soft (very high lead content) that the wings will start to bend under their own weight at the point where they are fixed to the body.  Some steel rods and putty are going to be needed to make this work.  :(
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on October 20, 2015, 10:40:56 PM
Quote from: Revfan on October 19, 2015, 10:22:43 AM
I don't know if it will help you much, but if it can, you can have em' free (just PM me your mailing address)

Halflings
G (the camp guard)

Fighting Men
A Spearman (I have, but the back bit of his spear is gone)
C Knight (I have em, but the last 1/2 of his sword is gone)
D Crossbowman ( Missing Crossbow)

If you don't mind working a little magic on em, you can have em.



I certainly don't mind working a bit of magic on them, I have to do that on a few other models as well. I'll send you a pm as such an offer can't be neglected.
For instance the following fighting men was missing part of his halberd:
(http://i14.photobucket.com/albums/a340/braxandur/Miniatures/Grenadier/Grenadier%20Fighting%20men%20B_zpsxlqrmmpu.jpg~original)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 21, 2015, 08:15:25 AM
No worries!

If you can work magic with the Halbrerdier, than these shouldn't be an issue.

Send me your addy and I'll get em off to you.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 25, 2015, 07:36:24 PM
Does anyone else out there have 5009 - Dragon's Lair?

I've made some progress on it over the last week - I'm working on it between 2000-series sets.  I'd be interested to hear if anyone has any good suggestions about positioning the flying dragon over the treasure pile.  I have a fairly workable solution with a drilled steel rod, but wondering what others may have done.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on October 25, 2015, 08:47:36 PM
Quote from: otherworld on October 25, 2015, 07:36:24 PM
Does anyone else out there have 5009 - Dragon's Lair?

I've made some progress on it over the last week - I'm working on it between 2000-series sets.  I'd be interested to hear if anyone has any good suggestions about positioning the flying dragon over the treasure pile.  I have a fairly workable solution with a drilled steel rod, but wondering what others may have done.

I had him.  Two suggestions, run a rod through the foot to the base.  And to run rods trough the tabs on the wings to keep them secured.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 25, 2015, 08:55:22 PM
Quote from: Too Bo Coo on October 25, 2015, 08:47:36 PM
I had him.  Two suggestions, run a rod through the foot to the base.  And to run rods trough the tabs on the wings to keep them secured.

Yep, I've done that.  Had to pretty much rebuild the wing joints, which seemed to be made of grey Play-Doh!

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on October 25, 2015, 09:13:18 PM
Quote from: otherworld on October 25, 2015, 08:55:22 PM
Yep, I've done that.  Had to pretty much rebuild the wing joints, which seemed to be made of grey Play-Doh!



It's a really nice model, but  agree, those tabs are useless....  At least there is some good meat to run wire into the body and even through those tabs.  The baby dragons are great!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on October 26, 2015, 07:52:07 PM
I never owned that set, but am looking forward to seeing what you make of it.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 28, 2015, 10:04:30 PM
Quote from: Braxandur on October 26, 2015, 07:52:07 PM
I never owned that set, but am looking forward to seeing what you make of it.

I'm making some progress on the Dragon's Lair set, but it's slow going.  I don't think I'll finish it before the end of the month, when I'm going to get stuck into the swamp dwellers!  Anyway, here he is so far.  At least the wings look pretty solid now, and I'm happy with the rod suspending him above the treasure pile.

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/5009wip1_zpsp9pltelg.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/5009wip1_zpsp9pltelg.jpg.html)
(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/5009wip2_zpskyu3snix.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/5009wip2_zpskyu3snix.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: majorsmith on October 28, 2015, 10:29:21 PM
The dragons looking great! Love the bone coloured sections
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Arundel on October 29, 2015, 02:49:44 AM
That's some very nice painting, Otherworld. Excellent work!!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 02, 2015, 07:29:06 PM
Before we drop off into the murky depths of page 2, I was wondering if anyone else managed to get any work done on the Specialists in October?  I've started on my Denizens of the Swamp now.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on November 02, 2015, 08:22:25 PM
Yes!
You are on fire though... and hard to keep up with.

Actually, I was so impressed with your stuff, that I thought I'd improve the look of mine by creating a small diorama to photograph them in....

So I am about 80% done with the diorama, and 60% Done with the the Specialist.  I bought a book that was suggested (Foundry Guide to Painting Miniatures) and that has been helpful.  I think I keep making it harder than it is though....

A BIG help was going to a larger brush... I am now using a #1 for most of my work, and its a lot easier.....

I'll post pics tomorrow of my progress!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 02, 2015, 09:23:22 PM
Sounds good, looking forward to seeing your set-up.

Yes, I do most of my work with a #1 brush.  So long as it's good quality, it'll have as good a point as a much smaller brush, and will hold more paint.  I can recommend Winsor & Newton series 7 brushes - they're not cheap though.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on November 03, 2015, 11:53:30 AM
Otherworld, I can't keep up with you... I'm at the finishing stage of two fighting men and have the next (last two) prepped and ready to be undercoated. Only after that will I switch to the (nice) specialists.

Still no worrie, I'll just keep at it, even while lagging behind.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 03, 2015, 02:50:27 PM
No problem you two, I didn't mean to rush you.  I'm not usually this prolific, I just got into a groove and want to try to keep my momentum going.  Otherwise it'll be another 5 years before the next set gets done.  So, go at your own pace and I'll carry on working on my Dragon.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: marklt31 on November 04, 2015, 12:48:12 AM
I recently found a load of old D&D minis in the cupboard O have had for years I have just started stripping them for repaint but there not gold line ones though looking at your ref on the goldline
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on November 04, 2015, 08:54:13 AM
Refvan his ind donations have arrived -> thanks! As soon as time permits, I'll start with prepping the fighting men and inserting in the qeue at the proper place. I love painting these miniatures more and more with each brushstroke. They just feel right and look great as soon as paint is slapped on. I also started seeing them as potential models for use in a frostgrave warband.  :D

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on November 04, 2015, 02:39:56 PM
Ok... here is my scenery/background WIP with my Fighting Men figures... I have based a few, but about half still need bases.  I am not as far along as I thought I was... but still, its a start!
My insiration is the "Keep on the Boderlands" D&D old school module.  This is going to be one of the entrances to the "Caves of Chaos"
(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/LAF-WIP-01.JPG)

It will eventually be an "almost" dry creek bed with maybe a trickle of water coming down the wall and out of some of the fissures.  The remains of a bridge. - I'll add some hewn longs thrown across the remaining bridge foundation.  In the corner I'll plant a lone thick, menacing vine (a la' watcher in the lake) that is creeping out of a hole and around a broken entrance door (will be on left).  


And here is my Specialist WIP
(http://www.revfan.com/SELL/LAF-WIP-02.JPG)

I tried the technique of First White, then a Light Black Primer.  Not sure how I feel about it.  Lots of little white spots to deal with in the cracks that are normally hidden with the all black primer.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on November 04, 2015, 03:20:46 PM
I use corks too to paint.  Some things I discovered was that champagne corks work best and that it helps to make a 'bed' with hot glue and then to sit the cork into it.  The minis make the corks top heavy and prone to fall over.  This way you get a non slip base for pennies.

Nice stuff BTW!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 04, 2015, 03:28:39 PM
Quote from: Too Bo Coo on November 04, 2015, 03:20:46 PM
Some things I discovered was that champagne corks work best............

I'll give that a try with my next set, although it will mean opening my last 10 bottles of Bollinger!   :'(   ;)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on November 04, 2015, 04:29:03 PM
Quote from: otherworld on November 04, 2015, 03:28:39 PM
I'll give that a try with my next set, although it will mean opening my last 10 bottles of Bollinger!   :'(   ;)

lol  I use a dremel cut off wheel to make the tops of the corks flat.  If I base the minis first, I just hold them down with blue tac, works GREAT.  For my Otherworld minis that I put on clear bases, I run a wire or pin through a foot and then stick that in the cork and use a drop of glue on the other.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: marklt31 on November 05, 2015, 01:11:37 AM
I have these figures I know there not all grenadier im just not sure which are not and are . I have stripped a few of them for repaint
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/13/a7/1e/13a71e038609eedaab9f280b021b0ba5.jpg
https://uk.pinterest.com/marklt27/knights-unkown-make/

The flag is hand painted by a friend 10 years plus ago
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Jonsta on November 06, 2015, 03:40:14 PM
Hi,
I'll try to add a few pics.  I am currently whittling down on the 2008 Thieves box.

(http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/Jonsta007/IMG_0196_zpsiaj0cexk.jpg)

(http://i1272.photobucket.com/albums/y389/Jonsta007/IMG_0204_zpsts3sg8jr.jpg)

AntiMatter, I want to take the opportunity to thank you for posting your hirelings pics on coolmini or not way back when.  It helped me get through painting that box.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on November 07, 2015, 03:41:23 AM
Quote from: Revfan on November 04, 2015, 02:39:56 PM


I tried the technique of First White, then a Light Black Primer.  Not sure how I feel about it.  Lots of little white spots to deal with in the cracks that are normally hidden with the all black primer.


I thought zenithing was the other way around.  Black base and a light zenith spray of white?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on November 20, 2015, 06:42:23 AM
Quote
I thought zenithing was the other way around.  Black base and a light zenith spray of white?

Yeah... that is what I meant to say.... sorry!


I am close to being done with the Specialist (or at least as done as I am going to be).  I've been working on the Secret Santa thread and neglecting my work bench of the last week or so.... but should be back at it.

Practice makes perfect, and I can see an improvement over the Fighting Men... a few thousand more minis and I can call myself a novice painter!

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Fighting Men" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Jonsta on November 21, 2015, 03:53:02 PM
Quote from: otherworld on October 06, 2015, 08:54:50 PM


(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/2005a_zpsg3qkfopp.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/2005a_zpsg3qkfopp.jpg.html)

These are really just great.  Is the boar head free hand or a decal?  If it's freehand bravo! If it's a sticker, where did it come from?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 21, 2015, 10:13:57 PM
The boar's head was painted freehand, copied from a book on medieval heraldry.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 29, 2015, 07:38:57 PM
I've finished my Dragon's Lair, just in time for the end of the month.  Photos to follow, probably tomorrow.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 30, 2015, 03:57:42 PM
OK, this is 5009 - Dragon's Lair.

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/dragonslairpaint1_zps028um0xu.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/dragonslairpaint1_zps028um0xu.jpg.html)

So, about 33 years after buying it, I finally got some paint on it!  In the early '80s, TSR (UK) published a monthly newsletter for members of their D&D Players' Association.  On the back page of each newsletter was a listing of discounted TSR products available only to members.  These were damaged goods which couldn't be sold through the normal retail network, and the listing often included sets of Grenadier AD&D miniatures.  Some were more damaged than others, with figures missing or squashed boxes.  Some just had missing shrink wrap.  I didn't have much disposable income back then, and the full priced sets were out of my reach, but I bought a few sets from the Players' Association, and this was one of them.

There are a few bits that could have done with a bit more time spending on them, but I'm afraid that I lost patience and rushed it to get it finished.  Maybe one day I'll go back and attend to them, but probably not.  It actually looks better in real life, as the lighting has flattened out some of the highlights in the photo. 
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: LeadAsbestos on December 01, 2015, 01:29:46 AM
Looks amazing! I had that set back in the day, and you've done a great job on it!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: m4jumbo on December 01, 2015, 02:05:11 AM
Very nice job on the Dragon.  I have that set as well, sadly still unpainted since I got it back in the day.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on December 01, 2015, 06:17:48 AM
Nice to see everyone's progress on this, great figures!

I saw mention of Denizens of the Swamp.... hope to join in on that one as I already have the lizardmen, shambling mound, troll and basilisk done.  :D Yes, cheating, I know, but I think that leaves just four to do.... now where did that sahuagin get to?  ???

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on December 01, 2015, 10:40:12 AM
Great work Richard!  You even have the original 'gems'!!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on December 30, 2015, 02:23:07 PM
Well... its been a busy few months since I posted last!  But I haven't given up on the project, and I hope you guys haven't either.

I got sidetracked with running the Lead Miniature Secret Santa http://leadadventureforum.com/index.php?topic=84096.0 and getting ready for the holidays... but we all got excuses... right?

Also, my stuff doesn't belong up here with most of you guys, and I have been insanely jealous of some of the photo shoot back drops you guys have... so I worked on one of those too.  Mine's not completely done, as I am trying to figure out how to make realistic water...

I am going to be using the back drop as part of the Caves of Chaos...  part of the Keep on the Borderlands module.  Though I am going to try to adapt it for Castles and Crusades.

anyway, my SPECIALIST 2006 Box is as done as I am going to get it.

I REALLY see an improvement over the Fighting Men.  Maybe not Neil Armstrong "giant leap" better, but better.

First up is a whole gang shot. *NOTE* I have the later Red Box Specialist, so I have the Assassin with the lowered mace, Magic User with the raised pot,  and the pile of skulls
(http://www.miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/images/2/29/G-dlfbs-2006-ins.jpg)

Here goes nothing...
Group Shot
(http://revfan.com/DD/Sepcialist-00.JPG)

(http://revfan.com/DD/Sepcialist-04.JPG)

(http://revfan.com/DD/Sepcialist-09.JPG)
(http://revfan.com/DD/Sepcialist-10.JPG)

(http://revfan.com/DD/SPEC-007.JPG)

I really enjoyed painting this group.  I think the Druid, the Magic User, and the Cleric where my favorites.

I am getting the Denizens ready and will start on those soon!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on December 30, 2015, 03:00:50 PM
Nice work, Revfan, a definite improvement on the previous batch.  I like the backdrop, especially the bridge.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: m4jumbo on December 30, 2015, 03:18:58 PM
Every time there is a new post in this thread I want to get busy painting my collection of Grenadier figures.  But I'm working on a bunch of stuff for an upcoming convention, so much to my frustration they will have to wait.  So yes, there are always excuses.

As you say, this set is improved from the Fighting Men, a lot of which can probably be attributed to the primer issue on the Fighting men.  Hard to get them looking their best when the primer is clumpy.  Looks like more use of shading and blending techniques on these as well.  Looking good and cool to see these guys painted.

Interesting to see how the contents of the set changed "New and improved, now includes more NINJA!".  :D  I've never seen that Magic User with the raised pot before, cool figure.

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on December 30, 2015, 03:23:55 PM
I said "pot" but I guess its a brazier... another word I would have never known without D&D!

Thanks for the comments guys... I just need to do another 1000 or so and I can call myself a figure painter!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on December 30, 2015, 10:16:03 PM
I just realised what your Ranger's shield reminds me of.  I really hope it was deliberate!

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/monster_manual_zps8wsk4owi.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/monster_manual_zps8wsk4owi.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on January 22, 2016, 02:14:21 PM
Anybody else working on the Denizens?

Slowly, but surely!

Work in Progress....
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Denizens-WIP.JPG)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: steders on January 22, 2016, 03:55:58 PM
Just thought I'd chuck these in, I'm painting a load of old grenadier figures to use for Frostgrave. Various sets and one or 2 deserters from Citadel, got about another 12 to do
(http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i27/steders/IMG_0853_zpscfohv5p6.jpg) (http://s68.photobucket.com/user/steders/media/IMG_0853_zpscfohv5p6.jpg.html)
A mix of Grenadier adventurers and Citadel, I've got about 15 more to do
(http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i27/steders/IMG_0855_zps57kyb9j4.jpg) (http://s68.photobucket.com/user/steders/media/IMG_0855_zps57kyb9j4.jpg.html)

(http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i27/steders/IMG_0856_zpslzovrjlh.jpg) (http://s68.photobucket.com/user/steders/media/IMG_0856_zpslzovrjlh.jpg.html)
(http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i27/steders/IMG_0857_zpsfl41dsvx.jpg) (http://s68.photobucket.com/user/steders/media/IMG_0857_zpsfl41dsvx.jpg.html)

(http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i27/steders/IMG_0858_zpsyzdtmmrt.jpg) (http://s68.photobucket.com/user/steders/media/IMG_0858_zpsyzdtmmrt.jpg.html)
(http://i68.photobucket.com/albums/i27/steders/IMG_0859_zpsd8j9rfij.jpg) (http://s68.photobucket.com/user/steders/media/IMG_0859_zpsd8j9rfij.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: julius1880 on January 22, 2016, 04:18:11 PM
Seeing those minis...those were the days...think I have the majority of them in boxes.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Damien on January 23, 2016, 01:52:46 AM
Hello everyone, reading this thread makes me nostalgic. Both for the vintage Grenadier miniatures and for the years that I was actually able to paint (can't seem to find the time anymore). Here is my small contribution to your amazing thread, I painted these miniatures in 2013; I think they are the last miniatures I have painted. I hope to be back on this board soon!

Cheers,
 Damien

(http://i.imgur.com/0F7oLob.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/98HIIhG.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/N8Orw1c.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/aeUe6Jn.jpg)

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on February 25, 2016, 12:56:15 PM
Whew!

For the most part, they are done!  As are as far as I am going to take them.  Table Top Quality Denizens of the Swamp!
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Denizens-023.JPG)

I had the most fun with the Lizard-Men.  And I went with a 50/50 Lizard/Man approach.  I like em'
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Denizens-012.JPG)

I also enjoyed painting the troll and the shambling mound
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Denizens-007.JPG)

I didn't enjoy the snake.... I went with a "red & yellow, kill a fellow" theme... as red & black, friend of jack is harmless.

I think I am going to crack open the box of Females, #2007 next.

How is everyone else doin?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: blackstone on February 25, 2016, 01:09:13 PM
Nice work on those classic monsters. :)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on February 25, 2016, 01:35:14 PM
Thanks for the kind words...!

I really struggled with the Gnolls... getting "fur" right is beyond my neophyte skills...
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Denizens-020.JPG)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on February 26, 2016, 10:36:08 AM
Wow, its like walking through my childhood collection....
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Old Coast on February 26, 2016, 09:53:47 PM
(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-EQX2twMcYFI/Umr3JXxbalI/AAAAAAAAG7M/ZNEbbwNoqsc/s800-Ic42/Old_Coast_02_Its%252520got%252520Two%252520Heads%252520%252528old%252520lead%252529.jpg)

This thread is epic , not sure how I missed this...the pic above is my stuff from LPL 7 the last time I dug into my Grenadier pile. here are most of my  Fighting Men box 2005 and the Grenadier Two headed Giant  3509 , the Fighters were a banged up mess so you'll notice I had to rebase them all for consistency and swap out weapons on some where there were no longer any, I also did 5 or so of the wizards 2001 for LPL6.  Anyway these type threads are always great motivation to get back into a box. when you get back onto working something in unison that I have, I'll try to jump in. 

I have
Wizards 2001
Dwarves 2003
Hirelings 2004
Fighting Men 2005
Thieves 2008
Wizards Room 2009
Orc's Liar 2011
Dwellers Below 2012

5001 Dungeon Explorers
5004 Tomb of Spells V2
5009 Dragons Lair

8001 Action Art Explorers
8002 Action Art Monsters.

Most of mine are complete, but missing a few here and there, Like Otherworld (Richard) I have had these for 36 years and just got around to start painting (or repainting them) in the last few years and ironic or not, that is no small part to Otherworlds own miniatures line keeping me extremely busy.

also like to give a shout out to Spooktalker who was the person who got me motivated to dig back in my own stuff and try to seriously paint them after stumbling across his work here a  years ago... fantastic stuff everyone!.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on February 27, 2016, 05:20:19 AM
Nice job on the denizens of the swamp, Revfan.


I may as well jump in though I've shared these elsewhere on LAF. I've painted quite a few gold line figures but helter skelter, not by box set. The denizens may be the one I'm closest to completion on. I have a bunch of the gnolls I'm converting but I need to find the snake and sahuagin. I have a fresh box but I'm reluctant to pilfer from it as I know I have spares.

(https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2839/12962453423_83187118d6_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/kKrXNg)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7359/12962729674_736ddd969b_n.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/kKtnVd)

(https://farm3.staticflickr.com/2636/12962313475_d8751b72a9.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/kKrfcn)

(https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7374/10865400404_3f0993740b_c.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/hy91ZJ)

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on February 28, 2016, 10:21:45 PM
Sorry Guys, I've neglected this thread for a few months.

Anyway, I hope to get back into painting some old Grenadier stuff next week.  I must admit, my Wizards set is calling me, especially as it is already prepped and primed.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on February 28, 2016, 10:46:21 PM
Over here there is also little progress.  I did manage to get a few more models done and wanted to show them in the Lead adventure league, but RL kicked in and I find myself pretty short in time. I'm not complaining though, as nothing beats having a new baby. Well, except sleeping... :D

If I manage to get my camera setup ready there will be a few more  pictures, but don't count to much on it.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on February 29, 2016, 06:38:01 AM
Wizards it is then!

I haven't started on anything "next", so its seems at least 3 of us have wizards!


and to anyone else reading this thread and thinking about joining...

Its not meant to be stressful... its therapy remember?  Take your time, do what gold line boxes you have, and post the result.


I actually started painting again because I saw Spooktalker's stuff.... His shambling mound and troll especially.  If imitation is the most sincere form of flattery... I must be trying to flatter!

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on March 01, 2016, 04:19:38 PM
Starting the prep work tonight...
(http://www.dndlead.com/grenadier/ADandD/2001.jpg)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on March 09, 2016, 01:04:25 PM
Hey Fellow LAFers...

I am getting my Wizards box ready to paint... and upon closer inspection... my "Sage" has a pretty good case of lead rot.

Ironically, I have two of these figures, and both of them have the rot.

Does anyone have an extra?  I got trade wampum.
(http://www.miniatures-workshop.com/lostminiswiki/images/e/e3/G-asfs-2001g.jpg)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on May 16, 2016, 02:20:22 PM
Just a bump to let you know I haven't abandoned the project...

Still working on the Wizards box... sorry for the crappy photo, but I am too lazy to go back into the basement and take another!
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Wizards-GoldLine1.JPG)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on May 16, 2016, 03:35:17 PM
Well, you've made more progress than I have!  Mine are cleaned, based and primed, and I've done a base coat and wash to flesh areas, but that's it so far.  Maybe I'll get back onto them tonight.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on May 28, 2016, 03:05:44 PM
Getting closer...

Taking photos in Macro sure does expose bad painting technique....

Regardless...
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Wiz-2a.JPG)

I went with a ROY G BIV approach... then added the Black and White.  I just started on the brown one
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: The Dozing Dragon on May 28, 2016, 05:18:05 PM
Not sure if I've mentioned it before but if you 'do' Facebook there's a fantastic group dedicated for old school miniatures.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/339877386089536/ (https://www.facebook.com/groups/339877386089536/)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on June 04, 2016, 08:03:49 PM
Dozing Dragon... Thanks for the link!  I joined up!

I think I am about done with this box.  I achieved my goal (table top quality) and had some fun with the box.  I whipped up a quick back ground too!
(http://www.revfan.com/NEW/Wizard-002.JPG)

Going to try the Females box next!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: northtroll on June 07, 2016, 05:28:11 AM
I have to say i love this discussion. I cut my teeth on Grenadier and Ral Partha minis from about 1979 when I got into D&D. The Grenadier figs are what I think of when i think AD&D in particular. Good Marketing on their part I guess. I have acquired a good chunk of these figs and have slowly painted most of them. keep up the awesome work!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on October 05, 2016, 10:16:53 PM
Well, it has been a while, and I finally found this thread languishing on page 10.  I don't know where the time has gone, but I finally managed to get some Grenadier AD&D stuff done.  These ar Lizardmen, from the blister pack and the Denizens of the Swamp set....

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/image_zpst4w3kwfl.jpeg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/image_zpst4w3kwfl.jpeg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Doomrunner72 on October 05, 2016, 10:42:37 PM
I have many of the Gold line miniatures but not all
I can't commit to any deadlines or challenges but i'm currently working on:
Dragons Lair, Orcs Lairs, Dwellers Below (90%complete), Denizens of the Swamp, Action Art Dungeon Party and Monster and various blisters. All in different stages of completion.
Here is a small sampling;)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Severian on October 05, 2016, 11:00:00 PM
Great to see this thread rising from its (admittedly shallow) grave and walking among us once more.

Some fantastic painting there by you both.

The wizard in particular is outstanding.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: LeadAsbestos on October 06, 2016, 12:42:10 AM
Wow! Grenadier has never looked so good!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: weismonsters on October 06, 2016, 12:36:13 PM
Great stuff there Doomrunner. Who is the guy on the back left behind the snakeman?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Doomrunner72 on October 06, 2016, 12:52:16 PM
^thanks;) he is the aspis from dwellers bellow set ;)

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on October 07, 2016, 05:32:36 AM
Wonderful work Otherworld, Revfan and Doomrunner! Really, really, great!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on October 07, 2016, 03:11:24 PM
Hey Guys (and Gals?)

Anyway... I haven't abandoned this thread yet... I just had a bit of a set back.  I am stationed with the US Forces overseas here in Germany, and my mother, who has had many years of bad health, went into Home Hospice Care at the end of May.  I had to fly back to the states to help provide that care and didn't get back to Europe until the end of August.  I have been playing catch up with all my family duties here... and work etc etc, and have only managed to put primer on the figures from the current box I am working on (Females #2007).

Hopefully, I'll start into them seriously soon... but my free time has found me playing Fallout 4 recently... ughhh...


Remember... this isn't a contest, or Challenge... just paint along, or post what you have done....   Inspire Somebody else or receive inspiration/motivation.  Its all good!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 03, 2016, 04:45:30 PM
I finally got my Wizards boxed set finished.  As usual, a couple of them were rushed, just to get them finished, but they're finally all done.  The photos aren't the best, taken at home with poor lighting.  I'll see what I can do later with the lighting rig at work.

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/image_zpstnsl60nk.jpeg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/image_zpstnsl60nk.jpeg.html)
(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/image_zpsl9fka2sh.jpeg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/image_zpsl9fka2sh.jpeg.html)

I'm moving on to the Dwarves set next....
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Pangolino on November 03, 2016, 06:27:40 PM
I don't paint my miniatures (I did paint two back in the 80's - a Citadel Druid with sickle, as I got him in a trade and he was primed anyway, and a Grenadier lizard man with club), but it's so good look through this thread and see all these "people" I have known for years in new ways. For example, I feel like I finally get the cleric from the Wizards set now that I see him wearing black. Of course he is! Also, seeing the lizard men with caucasian flesh tones boggled my mind a bit. I'm not sold on the idea, but It'd never have even entered my head before. Thanks for posting photos, everyone.

And, holy crap, you have a great sense of colour, otherworld. Those wizards are pretty magical.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on November 06, 2016, 06:48:39 PM
Quote
Also, seeing the lizard men with caucasian flesh tones boggled my mind a bit. I'm not sold on the idea, but It'd never have even entered my head before

While I was cleaning them up for priming, I got the idea of the half man/half lizard thing.... If I was a better painter, It might have translated better.  Still, I personally like the idea and it is a unique take on it, if I do say so myself!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: fred on November 06, 2016, 08:57:09 PM
Great work on the wizards, I really like the colours and the look you have gone for. The wizard with the giant hand is an interesting model!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Pangolino on November 07, 2016, 02:27:52 PM
I agree about the wizard with the hand-spell (included in the box were two possible spell-additions - the other one, if I remember, was sort of a gorilla-head. The hand is better). And I especially like that the mist/smoke is tinted blue - and also that it's a different blue than appears coming from the other wizard's cauldron.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Zombie Master on November 08, 2016, 01:08:15 PM
really enjoying this thread, need to find some to paint for myself.

had the specialist set back in the day but it is long gone.

A
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 09, 2016, 11:04:16 PM
I'm making good progress with my set of Dwarves.  In fact, 9 out of 10 are almost finished, just a few small details to do, then bases to paint, and a coat of varnish,

Unfortunately, the last model - the crossbow team, had a couple of casting flaws and also signs of the dreaded lead rot, so he needed some repair work and a bit of reconstruction.  So he's a bit behind the rest, and will have to be tackled as a separate job later.

They've been a lot of fun to paint.  Here's a quick snap with my iPad, I'll add better photos later, next time I have my lighting set up in the office.

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/image_zpsfanmmwy2.jpeg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/image_zpsfanmmwy2.jpeg.html)

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on November 17, 2016, 10:44:14 PM

9 out of 10 Dwarves are finished.....

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/dwarves1_zpsx7y1cfvz.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/dwarves1_zpsx7y1cfvz.jpg.html)
(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/dwarves2_zpsnjeykl6l.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/dwarves2_zpsnjeykl6l.jpg.html)

I'll get that crossbow team finished one day, I just got sidetracked by some old Asgard lead!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Reed on November 17, 2016, 10:52:59 PM
Superb, the background really makes your figure shine.

Hope you don't mind that I ask: How do you take your pictures? I'm struggling a bit with miniature photography lately, and any tips would be welcome.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: weismonsters on November 20, 2016, 11:25:50 PM
Really nice paintwork there.

Also, those dwarves look like very nicely sculpted.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on November 21, 2016, 02:28:38 AM
I had the wizard and dwarf sets, among others.  They are both fantastic and you did them great justice!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on January 31, 2018, 06:15:29 PM
I can't believe that this thread has languished for more than a year!  Where has the time gone?   :o

Anyway, I've been working on old Citadel, Asgard and Minifigs stuff for a while, but ready to get back to the Grenadier stuff now.

Since last posting here, I've finished my Halfling set, and I'm about halfway done on my Hirelings.  I'll post some pics shortly.

Anyone else?
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Braxandur on January 31, 2018, 06:59:53 PM
Quote from: otherworld on January 31, 2018, 06:15:29 PM
Anyone else?

Sadly no...  RL has reduced my level of active gaming and painting hours drastically. I just have to take care that the 4 year old will not surpas me in amount of minis painted in a year, which at the moment is not that hard....

I also have to agree that this thread did not even feel that old that it had to be resurrected, which clearly was needed, thanks for that and the motivatin that it gives!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on February 01, 2018, 01:55:42 AM
When it comes to the Gold Line, in the past year or two I have got a number of encounter groups to the primed-and-ready-to-paint stage:


Also cleaned, based and primed a half dozen or so assorted humans from the small boxed sets about 2 months ago.

And have some on the workbench now--am cleaning up and modding a group of Gnolls made from the two "Denizens of the Swamp" sculpts. And two lizardmen conversions to add to my finished group.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Hobgoblin on February 01, 2018, 04:45:31 PM
This thread's an absolute joy! I hadn't read through it all before: the stuff here's just splendid!

In particular, the lizardmen are wonderful. I really like Revfan's "hybrid" approach - reptilian heads and tails and mammalian bodies. I've seen that done before a few times, and it's got a wonderfully pulpy - and very D&Dish - feel. The others are superb too. I see that Mirliton still has some of these in print - ah, the temptation ...

I've always struggled a bit with Grenadier figures of all vintages, in large part because they seem immune to drybrushing: something about the way that Dennet et al. sculpted scales and fur. I should probably try a less lazy approach, as I have a fair amount of the Fantasy Lords stuff kicking around.

One thing all of you have demonstrated amply on this thread is just how well these old miniatures hold up. They have a charm that goes well beyond the quaint, and I think they actually look much better on the table - especially in dungeons! - than many of the musclebound or "overposed" modern miniatures.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on February 02, 2018, 05:39:57 AM
I took some pics tonight of the primed Gold Line stuff I have on the workbench. The past two years I've been taking advantage of assembly line and economies of scale techniques and doing huge batches of each prep task, and I have tons of primed figures to paint now.


(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eJH75Anp-bA/WnP2Qihtv9I/AAAAAAAAAv4/58A0BqWLRQck0othWT2XxgdzLN7UahSuwCLcBGAs/s640/CRW_0125.jpg) (https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eJH75Anp-bA/WnP2Qihtv9I/AAAAAAAAAv4/58A0BqWLRQck0othWT2XxgdzLN7UahSuwCLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_0125.jpg)
Adventurers

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rcgypisbqNU/WnP2Q8Vgd8I/AAAAAAAAAv8/2M4fcTbOhfMtjr9p-OwxoQJHgPZEne3kQCLcBGAs/s640/CRW_0126.jpg) (https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rcgypisbqNU/WnP2Q8Vgd8I/AAAAAAAAAv8/2M4fcTbOhfMtjr9p-OwxoQJHgPZEne3kQCLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_0126.jpg)
Adventurers

Some of these are weapon-swaps and/or fixes, for example I fixed the mask the guy on the top second from the left which was skewed pretty badly in the molding process. The female thief was pretty delicate at the ankles and I have steel wires reinforcing her legs, so now she is rock solid. I resculpted the dagger so it can point out from the body in a natural way.

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BYzai_mUegY/WnP2QQ89ywI/AAAAAAAAAv0/Rr0PH_kFfrUqLtKbbqJYvxPwtAiLLsgdgCLcBGAs/s320/CRW_0127.jpg) (https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BYzai_mUegY/WnP2QQ89ywI/AAAAAAAAAv0/Rr0PH_kFfrUqLtKbbqJYvxPwtAiLLsgdgCLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_0127.jpg)
Mind Flayer

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XwmYqpH9LOg/WnP2ROJiD-I/AAAAAAAAAwA/JoIlQYiQp9AbqaNMOrkzRGmutXHsoWFsQCLcBGAs/s640/CRW_0129.jpg) (https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XwmYqpH9LOg/WnP2ROJiD-I/AAAAAAAAAwA/JoIlQYiQp9AbqaNMOrkzRGmutXHsoWFsQCLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_0129.jpg)
Dwarves

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzSg5DPPZCg/WnP2RTf6hPI/AAAAAAAAAwE/V5GKavOoTC0eh0H8maRpKl7-GT0EmrrRQCLcBGAs/s640/CRW_0133.jpg) (https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZzSg5DPPZCg/WnP2RTf6hPI/AAAAAAAAAwE/V5GKavOoTC0eh0H8maRpKl7-GT0EmrrRQCLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_0133.jpg)
Gnomes

There's a Citadel gnome in their midst...

(https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nZKoPWvGjLw/WnP2R3-ptKI/AAAAAAAAAwI/A4vM7OgpzF8Zvrp5sCKpOznUuK1AgFqxACLcBGAs/s640/CRW_0135.jpg) (https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nZKoPWvGjLw/WnP2R3-ptKI/AAAAAAAAAwI/A4vM7OgpzF8Zvrp5sCKpOznUuK1AgFqxACLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_0135.jpg)
Goblins

Some Wizzards and Warriors line "kobolds" are mixed in. The main difference is the kobolds had tiny feet, so you can see I enlarged them (after I primed them). I love that I have mounted and foot versions of the leader-type. Also, spot the converted Gold Line dwarf! (Hint: a casting of the dwarf is shown painted earlier in this thread)

(https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_cCyypQ4VE/WnP2SC-TRBI/AAAAAAAAAwM/6iv1AoX3CP8adTeKAP_tlgzpmHQf89AkgCLcBGAs/s640/CRW_0136.jpg) (https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7_cCyypQ4VE/WnP2SC-TRBI/AAAAAAAAAwM/6iv1AoX3CP8adTeKAP_tlgzpmHQf89AkgCLcBGAs/s1600/CRW_0136.jpg)
Aspis
The one second from the right is the stock pose, but I cut the antennae free on the other castings and then a little greenstuff was needed to smooth things out. Big improvement, though, IMO. I would have liked to have done some conversions but life is too short in this case. I sucked it up and am going with a whole unit of one pose, and after a deep breath I am perfectly happy with it that way.  :)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on February 08, 2018, 04:42:36 PM
Here's my set of Halflings.  They're lovely figures, and a real joy to paint.  The pony had succumbed to a bit of the dreaded lead rot, so I had to cut away part of its belly and rebuild with Miliput.  Hopefully it won't oxidise any further.

(http://i731.photobucket.com/albums/ww318/otherworld1/GrenADDhalflings_zps37kg5gur.jpg) (http://s731.photobucket.com/user/otherworld1/media/GrenADDhalflings_zps37kg5gur.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on February 08, 2018, 05:11:24 PM
Amazing Richard!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on February 09, 2018, 02:27:18 AM
The halflings are very nice!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Thorlokk the boneless on April 29, 2018, 11:02:08 PM
Some great works on some old school figures. I may try my hand on some of these sets I still have tucked away
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: fred on April 30, 2018, 10:30:32 PM
There are some really great looking figures in these ranges, the Dwarves and Halflings both look very good. And some great painting on the Halflings by otherworld
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Bloggard on May 01, 2018, 07:40:51 AM
haven't gone right through the thread yet - but love your painting style Otherworld!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on August 21, 2018, 02:38:02 PM
Greetings all!

My bench sat idle for more than a year.... my father/mother passed... fell into a bit of depression... and a recent house move.

The house move caused me to pack everything up... and I hesitated before "unpacking it"... but honestly, I have a creative side of me that just needs to scratch the itch in an "artsy" way, and painting these figures from my childhood seems to kill a few birds with one stone.

So, I have the females primed.... I just need to knock the dust off of them and get going.

If you have been working on any gold line stuff... please feel free to post/join in. 

You never know, there could be somebody halfway around the world that your painting gives enough inspiration for them to crawl a bit further out of their depression!

:)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: warlord frod on August 21, 2018, 03:16:14 PM
Oh, what a trip down memory lane. I loved these old grenadier models, in fact, they were some of the first figs I painted and I still have them so I will try to post some pictures. A couple of years ago I picked up a few old boxes that are in my lead pile. This thread may motivate me to insert painting some into the many projects I have going now just for fun. Keep posting and painting everyone. Old school D&D figures rule!  :-*
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on August 22, 2018, 11:27:31 AM
I guess a lot happens when you are away for a bit....

Just found out Mirliton had a kickstarter and re-issued some of the Grenadier Dragon Lords stuff.... here are their recast and painted 2001 Boxed Wizards

(http://www.mirliton.it/images/catalog/DL2001.jpg)

*UPDATE*
I didn't paint these... they are from the Mirliton website.  I was just trying to relay that Mirliton is recasting them.  This pic is from their website.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Ethelred the Almost Ready on August 23, 2018, 07:48:35 AM
They look great (I had the wizard in red, only I had painted him in purple with Humbrol enamels).
I hope they put out the Orcs of the Severed Hand.  I would love to have these now - just not painted in green enamel with a home made wash that made them look blotchy and dirty.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: warlord frod on August 29, 2018, 03:16:52 PM
Ok, I finally dug out those old grenadier figs I painted over 40 years ago  :o :o. So please take that into account as you look at the paintwork. I have a couple of the "Monster Manuscript" boxes I never painted so maybe I will do them and post them here for comparison  ;) :D

So without further ado

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1858/30477489388_ba36dca40c_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Nrc6LY)WIN_20180828_09_36_17_Pro (https://flic.kr/p/Nrc6LY) by John Grusendorf (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156389025@N05/), on Flickr
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1883/30477489168_e590f38c7e_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Nrc6Hb)WIN_20180828_09_33_17_Pro (https://flic.kr/p/Nrc6Hb) by John Grusendorf (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156389025@N05/), on Flickr

(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1877/44344228271_8e4525d791_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ayxL8R)WIN_20180828_12_16_48_Pro (https://flic.kr/p/2ayxL8R) by John Grusendorf (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156389025@N05/), on Flickr
(https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1887/44344228101_4ef95a7e91_h.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2ayxL5V)WIN_20180828_12_24_31_Pro (https://flic.kr/p/2ayxL5V) by John Grusendorf (https://www.flickr.com/photos/156389025@N05/), on Flickr
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Hobgoblin on August 29, 2018, 04:55:42 PM
They look fantastic - gloriously old-school and would still grace a gaming table today!

I recently acquired the Orcs of the Severed Hand on eBay - all but the chieftain, alas (he's not the best of the bunch by any means, though).

Those old orcs that Mirliton have re-released are terrific  - shame there are just four:

(http://www.mirliton.it/images/catalog/DL008.jpg)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on February 15, 2019, 09:23:33 PM
I've recently teamed up with some other 50-someting dudes and rolled up some AD&D characters! 
We went for about 8 hours on a Sunday a few weeks back (Right near D&D's 45 anniversary). 

Lots of fun!

Now I have even more inspiration to get some of these sets finished....

More to follow!
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: otherworld on February 16, 2019, 04:06:39 PM
Welcome back!

I got side-tracked with other old lead projects, but looking forward to getting back to some Grenadier soon...
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Spooktalker on February 16, 2019, 04:08:36 PM
Quote from: warlord frod on August 29, 2018, 03:16:52 PM
Ok, I finally dug out those old grenadier figs I painted over 40 years ago  :o :o


A joy to behold!  :-* And you have kept them in such good condition. I'm sure the gloss varnish helped! I applaud you for treating them with care all this time. It's not often you see figures with paintjobs of this age without chips and scars, but of those I've seen, these are some of the best. On occasion (ones like this) I've stopped to wonder if I'm doing it wrong, if this style is the sweet spot between craftsmanship, visual appeal and practicality, and if I should go truly old school on my D&D figures.

I would be very interested if you could walk us through your technique, tools and paints in as much detail as you can remember.

Also interested in what action these have seen on the tabletop over the years. Looks like they were rebased in the mid-80s, so guessing they saw use for years.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: warlord frod on February 16, 2019, 06:02:55 PM
Quote from: Spooktalker on February 16, 2019, 04:08:36 PM
A joy to behold!  :-* And you have kept them in such good condition. I'm sure the gloss varnish helped! I applaud you for treating them with care all this time. It's not often you see figures with paintjobs of this age without chips and scars, but of those I've seen, these are some of the best. On occasion (ones like this) I've stopped to wonder if I'm doing it wrong, if this style is the sweet spot between craftsmanship, visual appeal and practicality, and if I should go truly old school on my D&D figures.

I would be very interested if you could walk us through your technique, tools and paints in as much detail as you can remember.

Also interested in what action these have seen on the tabletop over the years. Looks like they were rebased in the mid-80s, so guessing they saw use for years.

Thanks  :D I am a fanatic ;D when it comes to taking care of my collection and yes the gloss coat helps. I have always and still do think in terms of a classic toy soldier look thus the gloss coating. I also think it helps make the colors pop. I believe I was still using Humbrals enamels when I painted these. I primed them black and then ran my hobby knife over the chain mail and some of the armor to get the metal look as opposed to using silver paint. Once painted I sprayed them with Rust-oleum clear. I was not doing much dry brushing back then but did use thinned down black to bring things out. Today I use acrylics exclusively and all the techniques associated with that. I do, however still gloss coat.  :D 

I used to do some rather large (for the day) "Chainmail" fantasy battles and over the years I used them both in D&D games and smaller skirmish games. I don't pull them out as much today but I cannot possibly part with them.

As far as the bases go. For years I left them unbased or on a small square of wood because I wanted my collections to have a certain look that unified them. Once GW started producing basses I bought hundreds of them and based 90% of my collection on their bases. I still use their bases or similar brands to base my figs today.

Thanks again for your kind words
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on February 27, 2019, 06:50:00 AM
I am still churning through the Females box.... A little everyday.  I have been asking around for some inspiration though, if anyone has already painted them, please post because I am struggling with the detail (or lack there of on my models) and can't figure out what some of the stuff is.  Boobs, I can spot... But some of the rest of the belts, buckles, bags and bits I am lost on.
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on April 24, 2019, 05:40:24 PM
Ok... Just to update. 

I am getting there with the females box... slowly but surely.  The thing with this old lead is that sometimes I have no idea what the original sculptor was "intending".  That, or I just bought the 30000th figure from that mold...
So, that just means I am doing a lot of guessing.

I'll post a pic soon!

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on April 24, 2019, 09:05:11 PM
Ok, here are my "lovely" ladies.  Remember, I am still just developing my skill set (as you can tell from the other boxes), but this one by far was the hardest... too much flesh, nondescript casting, etc etc.
They are still a work in progress, but I am getting close since my goal is table top quality.

(http://www.revfan.com/DD/FemGoldBOx_035.jpg)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Too Bo Coo on April 25, 2019, 11:45:50 AM
They look great so far. After I base flesh I use a premix 60/40 purple red wash. Gives a good fleshy tone, then I start the highlights beginning with the base color again. Hope it helps
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Revfan on April 25, 2019, 09:52:55 PM
Thanks for the tips... all are appreciated it. 

Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Hobgoblin on April 26, 2019, 12:26:00 AM
They're looking good!

I meant to add these fellows to this thread a while back, but forgot:

(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KAUGx4xsCbk/W8XddQhl77I/AAAAAAAAAgs/TUpoQupSwI0n2nTrcdDbHfpTyOywFAMtQCLcBGAs/s1600/Grenadier%2Borc.JPG)
(https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qoCv2idSUQ/W8Xdc4BUoLI/AAAAAAAAAgo/VMJJOThCvBI9H5TyDNNigNJ_pMFQpO27gCLcBGAs/s1600/Grenadier%2Borc%2Bshield.JPG)
(https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xReAzSrMtEI/W8XeMwZ7zaI/AAAAAAAAAhM/HDvUpggzB2EsLJ75vBT2NyrpzddKTpC0wCLcBGAs/s1600/Orc%2Bchief%2B1.JPG)
Title: Re: Grenadier Box "Gold Line" group "painting" Therapy?
Post by: Garanhir on April 26, 2019, 12:40:23 PM
Your shields. Always a work of art.