Hondas Blog: #bedbugsbite

A little hobby appropriate mood music:

Busy week and weekend this go around and very little of it bobby related. Given that, I decided to focus on getting something completed. There's something satisfying about finishing things and being the task oriented personality that I am, it does feel good to get something across the finish line.

So bugs...

While I was focusing on a larger target, I decided to test a different technique for applying the blood to models, so out came the sponges.

The idea behind the sponge technique is to apply color using an irregular shape. The material used is the old figure packing foam that GW used in their blister packs. This comes from all sorts of sources, so even though GW clam packs don't use this material any more it can be found from other sources. If you're not able to secure any, then paper towels suitably crumpled up is a very workable secondary option.

I bring you bloody bugs...

The newest batch is on the left. It's lighter than one of the older versions, but I don't mind that at all. I like the variation in appearance it's going to give the force. Also, as I was eager to test out the sponging of blood, I did not seal them first so he's a little shiny.

Now, from a standard table top distance, I don't know that it will make a huge difference in the amount of blood on each figure, certainly the versions that were applied by brush are a fair bit stronger looking. II do think the sponge technique does a better job of avoiding the "glob" effect, so I will be doing that going forward.

What I was really happy with is the Broodlord.

On Saturday, I was able to spray him with some Testor's Lustreless Flat and that really smoothed out the transitions from the dip and give the shading a more natural look.

I will endeavor to provide the best pics I can for him, but as of this typing, I've done two rounds of shots and have not been very happy with any of them.

I am not a photographer and my camera is pretty old. So no promises or should I say no threats that you will have to face Ansel Adams quality pictures. I am rather annoyed though that my feeble attempts at making a light box are not equating to better pics.

I shall persevere, though.

Ok, third time's the charm.

I like how he turned out. The tones are natural looking, offset by the brightness of the blood. The figure is just awesome looking (i.e. great sculpt) and I don't think he came off too bad looking. He certainly is a beastly looking fellow.

And finally, just so you don't think I've abandoned the brain worm, here's a sneak peek.

That's all for this week, see you next time.

Cheers,