Hand painted tactical arrows
scripture on armor and scrolls
armour scrapes I was working on my Crimson Fists the other night and kept thinking that something was missing. How can I add something that would make them just a tiny bit different than your run of the mill space marines. So I figured that I'd add a little detail here and there on ever model. For me, it does two things. First, it makes them different than generic marines. And second, it makes each model unique.
In my research, I did learn that the Crimson Fists had conducted joint operations with the Black Templars, another chapter descended from Rogal Dorn. During the Declates Crusade, battle brothers from both chapters exchanged iconography as a symbol of unity. So, my plans are to display that exchange on some of the models. I'll paint a templar cross or use some of the black templar shoulder guards throughout the army.
I'm kicking around a few more ideas and using scripture and hand painted tactical arrows, just to change things up a bit. So let me know what you think.
Variety is everything. I've done the same thing with my IG. You can have wonderfully painted miniatures and still be boring thanks to lack of "the little things" which tie an army together. Any given army will have loads of variety and even uniforms throughout a unit might have various changes resulting from mission profile to equipment to the simple fact troops will indeed modify what they are issued and add their own personal touch. I can't really see the Space Marines as being any different. Indeed, if the suit you are wearing is countless centuries old or brand new or a mix of the two, every trooper will have some indication of who he is in addition to a name tag. Heck, I've seen units of troops in real life that look nothing at all like a typical recruiting poster after being in the field for a few weeks.
ReplyDeleteSuperb attention to detail! I especially like all the black script on the scroll - it really looks very authentic.
ReplyDeleteI think it's a great idea. Just a little variety can go a long way towards the overall look of a force.
ReplyDeleteThey look great, and you've given me a few ideas on spicing up my Sternguard. How do you get your transfers, especially the fist, to lie so flat?
ReplyDeleteThanks for the kind word, all.
ReplyDeleteTransfers - I used the standard GW transfers, but I applied a single coat of 'ardcoat to the area and let it dry. I used a sharp pair of scissors to cut as close to the decal as I possibly could. Then I applied the transfer in the usual manner, dabbing the excess water from the surface. Then I brushed on a generous coat of Microsol and let it sit for an hour or so. The one thing that I learned about using Microsol is that it works, but you have to give it time. Patience is the key. The decal will eventually conform to the surface.
If there are any wrinkles left after it's 85% dry, add another light coat of Microsol and let it set. Sometimes I used a cotton swap to flatten out some of the wrinkles.
Thanks. I'll need to look into getting some of that stuff.
ReplyDeleteIt's only $1 or $2 a bottle. You should be able to get it at any hobby shop.
ReplyDeleteI agree. It's the little details that really give an army that extra something.
ReplyDeleteVery cool! And thanks for that tidbit on the Black Templars mix...I finally have a reason to pick up a BT ugrade box and use them on my Crimson Fists!
ReplyDeleteGreat little post. The details you've painted so far look brill
ReplyDeleteLove those Crimson Fists. I've been thinking about get into Space Marines and these guys have been on the top of my list.
ReplyDelete