WIP "Easy Pickins"

[1969]

Hey Ski, that is a masterclass in diorama accessory building, you have captured the realism of the items so well and the variety of items is fantastic, will definitely enhance the diorama massively.

Cheers mate
Steve

 

[Steve Ski]

Thanks, Stevo, I really appreciate that. I think I've got enough, but ya never know. I may have to come up with a few more little items to fill some spaces, but the majority is good to go.

Cheers, Ski.

 

[Merryweather]

OMG absolutely wonderful, and as people have already said, works of art in themselves! Much respect Steve. It seems a shame to hide them in the background,but it will make the final result all the more compelling

 

[Steve Ski]

Hi Ski What a load of rubbish ............ Nap

Oh, you too, eh Kevin? Well, looks like you and Simon get ta do the dirty crock together, HA! Thanks, Brother.

It seems a shame to hide them in the background,but it will make the final result all the more compelling

Thanks, Brother, and I agree. If I work it right, I'll be able to keep most of it visible from different angles, but the Harley might hide some of it.

 

[Richie]

Hi Ski,
Some absolutely brilliant engineering and modelling work on the barn accessories.
I really do applaud your skill and thank you for sharing some of the techniques.
cheers
Richie

 

[Steve Ski]

Hi Ski,
Some absolutely brilliant engineering and modelling work on the barn accessories.
I really do applaud your skill and thank you for sharing some of the techniques.
cheers
Richie

Youbetch"ya, Richie! I'm liking Youtube when I can learn something. I'm slow rolling right now, veggies are in-progress.

 

[Steve Ski]

Are We There Yet?

Well, not exactly, because every time I think I’m ready to start placing ivy vines something else pops into my head and the action crawls to a standstill. That’s not really a bad thing considering how well some folks detail their dios, Chuck Doan being a great example. If you have ever taken the time to really look closely at how Chuck details the interior of his structures you will come to the conclusion that he misses nothing. And if he did miss anything, you won’t know it, his work is that good.

I’m not pressing for too much here, but I would like it to have a reasonably well lived in appearance for a working vine dresser’s lean-to/shop in Normandy, circa 1944. I have no idea what a vine dresser’s maintenance shop looks like, but somebody has to do the maintenance at the vineyard and the tools have to be stored somewhere, so artistic license will be leaned upon, no doubt.

The base work went well, no cracking or mud pour issues, pretty straight forward. I did use a boat-load of Elmer’s Wood glue in the mix.

Veggie work has continued off and on at a slow roll. I also made some experimental grass clumps as seen on some YT vids with great results. No, I still don’t have a static gun, but some day.

We’re getting very close to placing vines and dressing the ivy up all purty, but not yet. I was thinking after all the ivy leaves that I’ve cut over the past few years, “wouldn’t it be more appropriate to have “grape” vines crawling all over?” Uh, no,….not this go round, maybe next time, HA!

So far, the layout works well with the Ranger and Harley in place not conflicting with any of the tools or crates, barrels, etc. This really is a tight spot to work with, so I’ve had to make some adjustments that won’t even be noticed when it’s all put together. I do like having that roof off until the last minute, very handy for working space.

Lastly you can see I’ve worked up some more clutter bits that are within reason. I’m in no real rush, so more items may be fabricated as time goes on. However, I’ve already decided what goes on the bench next, so I’m kinda getting anxious to get this finished.

More to follow and thanks for watchin. Cheers, Ski.

 

[Briggsy]

That looks bloody good even without the people, vehicles and clutter. Sometimes with a long project it's hard to stop and pull it all together.

Cheers Simon

 

[NigelR]

Now this is quality workmanship. This will be a superb diorama, can't wait to see more.....

 

[Steve Ski]

That looks bloody good even without the people, vehicles and clutter. Sometimes with a long project it's hard to stop and pull it all together.

Cheers Simon

I agree, ya gotta know when to quit, HA! Tanks, Bro.

Now this is quality workmanship. This will be a superb diorama, can't wait to see more.....

Thank you kindly, Nigel!

 

[Steve Ski]

Nose to the Grinding Wheel

There’s really no way of getting around it, this will be a slow-going process, placing ivy leaves on the vine. I don’t think it’ll be too bad, it’s not like trying to put individual leaves on a tree, right?

These leaves had been cut out and accumulated over time, so this wasn’t really a show stopper, per se, but each leaf does require a slight bend in it for realism. I did this whole bunch in just over an hour, not too bad. I have four sizes to work with. I’ve found super glue works best when placing these, but in some cases I am using Elmer’s glue as well.

The vines, (tomato plant root) have been attached in a random manner making sure to keep them within reason, not over-done. Once the leaves start to be placed, I will have a better idea of just how much needs to go where.

This last little bit of “clutter bits” should round things out nicely. If more is needed later, I’ll think of something to add. But right now I’ve got to get to work finishing this up.

We’ve got expanded metal, a scratch made hammer, nails, gears, chain, springs, etc. Looks like a junk box to me.

More to follow soon and thanks for watchin. Cheers, Ski.

 

[VerSacrum]

Everything in this thread looks so good.

 

[Steve Ski]

Thank you, Brother, I appreciate that!

 

[Merryweather]

Truly wonderful Steve

 

[Steve Ski]

Thank you, Neil!!

 

[Steve Ski]

Well, Gents and ladies, I’m sad to say I’m pulling the plug after almost 14yr here at Planetfigure. I’ve truly enjoyed participating in our many conversations and I’ve learned a lot from so many of you. I’ve developed some great friendships that can’t be replaced by any means, this “was” my home site.

Why? Because the new site owners have made changes that I don’t agree with, mainly AI assist, which has already gone into many posts and private PM’s, just like I said they would. I’ve seen this happen at KitMaker as well. I can’t and will not willingly be part of an “in your face” censorship operation carried out by a company that has no vested interest in what we do here, paint figures. So, there’s no reason for me to be a part of something that goes against my principals, freedom and liberty.

Some are thinking I’m over reacting, and that’s ok. I’m not asking you to join me, just know, you will be missed. I’m also certain this post will be deleted by the new manager, Alan, within short order, I can’t help that. I’ll be hanging out at MSC, a sight still run on ProBoards, without AI censorship, and run completely by modelers. Read, “Freedom and Liberty!”

God Bless you all, my friends. Cheers, Ski.

 

[MalcC]

You're work and attention to detail is just amazing, and blows me away.
Wish you were my next door neighbour, I could learn so much.

Take care my friend, you'll be sorely missed here.

Malc

 

[BRAN]

I am speechless in front of your work Steve, well done!!

 

[1969]

Hey Ski, I will miss your masterclass work, been a joy to follow along and have learned a lot from it. It's a shame to not have you around and to see you produce so many brilliant projects.

Cheers Bro
Steve