l got some figures recently for a long anticipated period. The company had been more than helpful.I did the research, read up my books and looked forward to the arrival of the figures. I am delighted with the figures and eagerly anticipated their preparation for the table and subsequent gaming. However the paint job I managed was not great at all! So l have popped the figures away for a more auspicious day, if that ever comes. The figures are 28mm , Schleswig- Holstein Revolt 1848. I seem to be ok painting ancients or 1930s but when it comes to anything in between all goes wrong. I looked at the figures and thought it is me not you!
That's funny. I say give yourself another chance.
ReplyDeleteI wonder whether the digital camera close ups, professional painting of sample figures online and the glossy magazines from Duncan MacFarlane’s Miniature Wargames onwards have a lot to answer for in setting unreasonable expectations of how we would like to see our figures?
ReplyDeleteI agree with Mark. While it can be lovely to look at figures painted to the highest standard , it can also be quite off-putting. Personally I'm only "inspired" by figures of a standard I could possibly hope to achieve.
ReplyDeleteI also think Mark is correct, especially with the 'close up' bit - peering at my efforts up close is an easy way to spot all the times the brush has slipped doing lining, I've gone over edges or any of the numerous other small mistakes. But we are painting figures for the wargames table, to be viewed from arms length or more, so perfection isn't required. I really enjoy Aly Morrisons blog (https://alystoysoldiers.blogspot.com/) because whilst the painting is very nice (which it should be !), its not perfect, and doesn't aim to be (plus I find the all-over wash recipe is very useful for hiding errors !).
ReplyDeleteIt sounds like you were looking forward to this project so maybe don't condemn it or you too soon !?
Sometimes its just the wrong day.
ReplyDeleteI don't what sort of painting style etc you had in mine, but to me, that era is pefect for a simple, toy soldier look, minimal detail and a glossy finish.
I've done the same kind of thing. I've found if you come back after a couple of days away from them, touch up any obvious mistakes, give them a bit of the old magic wash, then highlight where you need to, they don't look so bad. Base them according to your usual methods and you might find that all is right with the world :)
ReplyDeleteIf it is a dire situation though, finding a good internet source and borrowing their paint job is a good way to recover things.
Don't give up: it's not you, it's just a phase you're going through!
Very much agree. Give it a few days and have another go. Deciding what style you want is probably the most important step. A simple paint job plus gloss varnish as per Ross may be fine.
DeleteSometimes the mojo just doesn't work. Although I have found a coat of dip brings a mediocre paint job together.
ReplyDeleteTry again another day , sometimes the muse is not with us .
ReplyDeleteThanks for your advice and comments one and all, much to ponder upon plus the break out room chat yesterday at the VWC . I will let you know what happens, eventually.
ReplyDeleteAlan Tradgardland