Modelling And Painting Fantasy Figures

A wide array of fantasy miniatures is available to wargamers and modellers, manufactured from an increasing number of different materials each with their own unique modelling challenges. From the multipart hard plastic 28mm miniature to the metal and resin models common in all other scales, this book provides wargamers with a wealth of information to achieve the best results. It discusses issues of scale with fantasy miniatures; demonstrates a variety of modelling and painting techniques at different scales; provides step-by-step guidance on building, converting, repairing and painting figures; explains dry brushing techniques, the three colour method, multilayering and shading with washes and, finally, it considers basic techniques and maintaining the compatibility of miniatures between different gaming systems. Whether modelling single figures, a handful of warriors for a warband or tackling a huge army for a mass battle game, there is something for every fantasy figure modeller, collector or gamer. Discusses issues of scale with fantasy miniatures. Demonstrates a variety of modelling and painting techniques at different scales. Provides step-by-step guidance on building, converting, repairing and painting figures Lavishly illustrated with 274 colour photographs.

Aimed at modellers of all abilities, this lavishly illustrated book presents a step-by-step guide to figure painting and modelling using traditional techniques. From the multipart hard-plastic 28mm miniature to the metal and resin models common in all other scales, this book provides wargamers, collectors and gamers with a wealth of information to achieve the best results. It demonstrates a variety of modelling and painting techniques at different scales; it provides step-by-step guidance on building, converting and painting models; it covers working in plastic, resin and white metal; it explains dry brushing techniques, the three-colour method, multilayering and shading with washes and, finally, it considers basing techniques and maintaining the compatibility of miniatures between different gaming systems.

“Copiously and brilliantly illustrated with fine examples of what can be achieved in the realms of fantasy and dungeons and dragons wargaming.” —Books Monthly The Art and Making of Fantasy Miniatures is a showcase of some of the best talent in the industry. Compiled with the cooperation of eleven of the most innovative companies from Europe, the UK and USA, it shows what goes in to the creative process of taking an initial concept from two-dimensional sketches and translating it into a three-dimensional figurine ready for collectors and tabletop gamers. Game designers, artists and sculptors explain their part in bringing these miniature works of art to life. The book is lavishly illustrated with over 1,000 images, including concept art, work-in-progress sculpts and beautifully painted miniatures. The book features miniatures from games and companies such as Aradia Miniatures, Alkemy (Alchemist Miniatures), Avatars of War, Godslayer (Megalith Games), Guild Ball (Steamforged Games), Relicblade (Metal King Studio), WARMACHINE and HORDES (Privateer Press), RUMBLESLAM (TTCombat), Drakerys (Don’t Panic Games), Kings of War (Mantic Games) and Freeblades (DGS Games). “So if you’re interested in learning more about the miniature design process from innovative wargame companies, make sure to grab this book and start exploring the great artistic journey your miniatures undergo on their way to the tabletop!” —Wargame News and Terrain “Hobbyists can glean tips about making and painting large or smallscale figures or just sit back and enjoy the show.” —Toy Soldier & Model Figure “If you are collecting the various models then this has to be the best guide to see what is out there.” —SF Crowsnest

The artist known as “El Mercenario” “shares the secrets of his success in this useful guide to painting miniature figures”—includes photos (Stuart Asquith, author and editor of Practical Wargamer). In this accessible “how-to” guide, Javier Gomez, a highly talented figure painter of long experience and excellent reputation, takes the reader step-by-step through the whole process, from choice of materials (unlike other available guides it is not linked to any specific figure manufacturer) and preparation of the miniatures to basing and even advice on photographing the finished item. Techniques such as dry-brushing, ink-washing, shading and highlighting are all explained clearly with the help of step-by-step photographs and color charts. Specific case studies tackle a variety of useful subjects across all periods, such as mixing realistic flesh tones for different races; painting horses; guns and limbers; Medieval heraldry; Napoleonic uniforms; WW2 and modern camouflage patterns. Javier also clearly explains how these techniques and processes can be applied to all the major wargaming scales, from 40mm down to 6mm. Whatever historical period (or Sci-fi/Fantasy) and whatever scale the reader is interested in, this book is an invaluable source of practical advice and inspiration. “Very soon after we started up Perry Miniatures we managed to acquire Javier’s outstanding painting services for our figure collections. He is a true genius with a brush, with a great sense of color that turns figures into masterpieces. His military and uniform knowledge adds a great deal to his ability to produce little painted gems.”—Michael and Alan Perry, Perry Miniatures “I have used some of the suggestions here as well as the highlights for some of my own figures and they have produced improved results.”—Mataka.org

A fresh interpretation of Fragonard's figures de fantaisie, Fragonard and the Fantasy Figure: Painting the Imagination reconnects Fragonard's paintings with a neglected tradition of fantasy figures in European art, and situates them within the cultural and aesthetic contexts of eighteenth-century France. This study defines Fragonard as a painter of the imagination, and shows how the fantasy figure, with its unusual juxtapositions and humour, engages the imagination of artist and viewer.

There are over 50 stunning examples featured, offering inspiration and guidance to aspiring fantasy artists.

KEYNOTE * Full-colour reference guide for painting exceptional fantasy figures The new trends in the world of figure painting mean that fantasy figures are becoming more and more important in the preferences of the general public. Role-playing games use metal and plastic pieces to make up armies that the enthusiast has to paint and is becoming ever more demanding with respect to the quality of the final results. In addition to this type of games, the market has been invaded by dragons, orcs, goblins, elves, dwarves and a long list of imaginary creatures that delight the youngest fans and newcomers to this trend as a change from military figures and without abandoning the military sector, they decide to paint some of these figures as an experiment or as a means of refreshing the mind.This type of miniatures is flexible in terms of the pictorial techniques employed. Not having to follow a set pattern, apart from the limits of the painter's own imagination, is a great advantage as it inspires a highly creative work. However, every painter needs some techniques to start from. This book, throughout its 62 pages, shows the steps required in order to obtain adequate results by employing basic painting techniques and how to create special effects with the use of advanced techniques that will make the figures more attractive and help to set them in a specific scene. One clear example of this is the sorcerer figure with the lights from above and below, as if it were illuminated by volcano lava. Due to its content, this publication is essential, not only for fantasy fans, but also for historical figure painters. Really amazing techniques are outlined in the book that can be applied to any type of figure. REVIEWS: With excellent photos and quick tips, I really commend the Andrea Press writers and editors for making a reasonably priced introduction to fantasy miniatures. Recommended to all miniature builders and a must for those (like me) in love with fantasy characters. - D Morrisette - IPMS ILLUSTRATIONS colour throughout

This book equips the beginner and intermediate modellers with the techniques required to successfully complete a figure from start to finish, and provides clear and easy-to-follow instructions on how to select, prepare, assemble, modify and paint realistic figures. It also offers a round-up of the range of figures available, a discussion of scale and how to work in differing scales as well as detailing the tools and materials you will need to get going. Modelling expert Mark Bannerman then provides an insight into construction and painting techniques, in clear, step-by-step tutorials that will increase confidence and develop better technique. Covering the four most-modelled historical periods (Medieval, Napoleonic, the American Civil War and the World Wars), this book is the comprehensive guide to figure modelling.