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Modeller Build Logs
Firefly IC Diorama |
| By James Wechsler | | Started: | Jul 15, 2007 | | Updated: | Aug 31, 2007 |
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This blog is intended to be a bit different than most in that a big focus will be on the diorama aspects. The focal point will be a Firefly IC (a welded hull M4 based Firefly). This will be built using the new Dragon Sherman III kit and the following Formations sets:
F079 M4 Conversion for the Dragon Sherman III
F022 Low Bustle Firefly Turrret
F018 Sherman Pioneer Tools
F050 Sherman Headlights
F046 Sherman Siren Assortment
F047 Sherman VVSS Track Skids
F013 US Cables and Clamps
The diorama is going to show the Firefly driving over a temporary bridge with a wrecked Panzer I command tank partly submerged in the river below.
I intend to include a number of chapters on making the ground work and also on how to make the water.
Up next: The M4 Conversion |
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| The Surface | Aug 28, 2007 |
I guess if you just want to make a very still pond or slow moving river, you could stop at this point. But I like to add a little surface texture to represent the natural effects of water flowing and light wind, etc. To do this, I’ve found that the product I like best is clear silicone caulking. This is the stuff you buy at the hardware store to seal corners in your shower or around your sink. It’s super cheap but make sure to get the water soluble kind.
I spread this caulking over the top of the water and then use my fingers dipped in water to get the look I want. It’s really pretty easy and the caulking takes a long time to dry (hours). If you need big waves, this stuff works great since you can build it up to whatever height you wish and it remains clear (but make take days to dry, so be warned). I added a couple of leaves and a twig I grabbed from my backyard.
Once dry, I used a product called ‘Acrylic Varnish’ which I bought at an art supply store. It’s basically just a water based gloss coat. It has the look and consistency of non-fat milk. What I really like about it is that it flows well and dries super clear and hard. I simply painted it on with a brush and let it dry overnight.
Up next: Attaching the Bridge |
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