1/16 Takom Pz.Kpfw.1 Ausf B (Panzer 1)

[Donkeywalloper]

Very nice!

See, sometimes I think I might try doing a tank, and then I come on ISM and see these build threads and think... nah.

Come on Parker, have a go. I built an Eduard Profipack BF109, and it was, well interesting
Try a Tamiya and come over to the Dark Side
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Stunning work. The weathering is really bringing the tank to life. Great use of all the different mediums too

Cheers chap, your way to kind . It still needs lots of attention and thought and the scale really does not give any margin for error. Cock-Up in this scale and it shows big style. 1/48 or 1/72 its just not noticeable, well not to anyone else, and its a secret with yourself.
Stay safe
DW

[digger303]

Very nice!

See, sometimes I think I might try doing a tank, and then I come on ISM and see these build threads and think... nah.

If you get a quick wheels masking set and a kit with easy click together tracks you will love it or try a modern 8 wheel Luchs .

[Tomcat64]

Just caught up with all of this again DW and wow what an impressive set of updates covering bakery, new kit, new compressor and some very tidy painting and weathering!

The general paintwork & camo is just superb as is the work on the tools - it all looks cracking mate!

Out of interest how are the AK Laquers smell-wise while spraying?

[Donkeywalloper]

Just caught up with all of this again DW and wow what an impressive set of updates covering bakery, new kit, new compressor and some very tidy painting and weathering!

The general paintwork & camo is just superb as is the work on the tools - it all looks cracking mate!

Out of interest how are the AK Lacquers smell-wise while spraying?

Morning Neil

Your to kind, it will all go to my fat-head, as Mrs DW says. Keep saying it though......
I'm sorry I waffle on about things other than Modelling but I don't get out much
I honestly can say, the AK was no smellier or noxious as most paints. I think the Tamiya Lacquers smelt worse. The AK I cant praise enough. The laying down was superb and as mentioned, I didn't thin or add anything.
Good to hear from you and hope all's well in your world.
DW

[Quax]

looking immense DW Im a big fan of the Realcolors and they thin down with MLT a dream. I think you have every reason to be very pleased with yourself, I know I would be!

Paul

[Donkeywalloper]

looking immense DW Im a big fan of the Realcolors and they thin down with MLT a dream. I think you have every reason to be very pleased with yourself, I know I would be!

Paul

Thank you Paul, means a lot from yourself.
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Hi all

Well after a murderous drive home yesterday afternoon in remarkable weather, at one point on a high stretch of road, so much Hail was coming down, the road was slushy. Yet, five miles up the road it was brilliant sunshine and clear skies.

Having got in and found Mrs DW not to well, flair up of Gallstones again, and having done all the chores, Rabbits fed, Cats fed, tidying up and Lunch made for next day, I wasn’t in the mood to make myself Tea. Since embarking on the Low Carb diet (another 5lbs lost in a week), my tolerance of food before bed has dropped to an all time low. I just can’t digest a meal tow or three hours before collapsing in bed. Its obvious, but even at my age, I’m still learning stuff……

So with nothing to do, and listening to Leicester City playing Manchester United away, on Livestream on mobile, (such a crucial moment for a Fox fan, few games to go, Man Utd, Chelsea in FA Final on Saturday, Chelsea and Tottenham, it’s all in the Laps of the Gods), I shirked off to the M/C for some quiet time.

The Gloss Varnish has dried hard now and settled well.

So checking reference details in Instructions, its only eight Decals to apply. Kettle boiled (Kettle has a feature where it boils to 50 degree, 60 degree, 80 and so on), I poured some water out. Grabbed my go to Brush for positioning Decals, Tweezers and Xacto knife and a handful of Cotton Buds (Q-Tips).

I have the usual Decal solutions of Microsol and Microset, and a complete set of Ultimate Decal Solutions, still unused, but for this I went with Mr Hobby / Mr Mark Setter & Mark Softer.


We have three Crosses to apply on each Hull side and one on rear, no Rivets or Mould-Lines to get in way. So soak Decal, blob of Mark Setter and position the three crosses.


Then two Divisional Marking applied on Front Drivers Plate and Rear Engine Plate.


Turret has three decals applied to Rear of Turret.


The Fire Extinguisher had a Decal applied that I bought as Aftermarket, I did see another builder of this model actually paint the Instruction plate on this Extinguisher, but I have cheated.

This after applying, is gonna need some cutting to encompass the holding strap, but I need to look at this after the Decal has dried.
I left the Decals to dry, whilst on edge of seat as scores set at 1 – 1 and 70 minutes played. Then applied some Mr Mark Softer to all decals to bed them in (not really required as they are all sitting tight to flat surfaces, but does help to suck the Decal in to surface. Applied a little more to Decal on Extinguisher and then left overnight.
As I left Man-Cave, Leicester scored and I sat glued (not literally but with all the glue in shed, its possible), and let out a shout as the final result came in, Manchester Utd 1 – Leicester City 2. Awesome. Just brilliant.

I have supported The Foxes since I was 8 (My Parents, Grandparents were all born and grew up in areas of Leicester Blaby and so on, although I never grew up in Leicester). I have watched them as the proverbial Boing, Boing Team, up and down through leagues, never won the FA in 6 attempts the Glory of winning the Premiership 5 years ago when 5000-1 (still have the T-Shirt with 5000-1 on it plus the other T-Shirt with Their ain’t no Party like a Vardy Party).
As I left the Shed, the Blackbirds were twittering and Robins feeding from Meal-Worm feeder and the rain had been replaced by a beautiful evening. Leicester were stars for a while and well supported by Manchester City Fans and the Model looked awesome.

An email pinged to notify me that Couriers were bringing me a delivery of Meng Model Flexible Sander Kit (why do I need more Sanders?, why? Cuz its new and I want them), AK Damp Earth, AK interactive Prussian Blue (may have mis ordered this as not a clue what I need this for), Tamiya Clear Orange Paint (for Rear Panzer 1 Light, although having Gloss Varnished over the Mr Metal………not sure if the Clear Red and Orange will stick). Plus another delivery from a new supplier to me of The Airbrush Company, who were the only people I could get Wilder Textured Earth Products off presently, everywhere seems Out of Stock. I ordered a selection of what they had, Dark Brown Stoney, Fine, Light Brown Stoney, European Stoney and a Lifecolour Liquid Pigments Tank Set all for weathering this Panzer.

As I gazed up at the sky, life didn’t get much better than this.

PS: Just arrived back tonight, and little box from The Airbrush Company, sits on side ready for me
Take care all, speak soon.

DW

[digger303]

That's a interesting effect on the fender checker plate. Was it like that or did you work some magic because to me it looks like cast iron plates bolted of course to the fenders. It's very well done.

[BigWall]

Very nice progress. It's looking great and the story is well told as usual!

[Kevthemodeller]

looking immense DW Im a big fan of the Realcolors and they thin down with MLT a dream. I think you have every reason to be very pleased with yourself, I know I would be!

Paul

What he said, cracking work DW

[Donkeywalloper]

That's a interesting effect on the fender checker plate. Was it like that or did you work some magic because to me it looks like cast iron plates bolted of course to the fenders. It's very well done.

I'm gonna take all the credit and just say, how amazing my skills are . I'm to modest though. Their is a certain amount of moulding within plastic.
Glad its coming across anyway. Shame to cover it all up.
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Very nice progress. It's looking great and the story is well told as usual!

As always Joe, thank you for comment and appreciate the time reading my stuff
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

looking immense DW Im a big fan of the Realcolors and they thin down with MLT a dream. I think you have every reason to be very pleased with yourself, I know I would be!

Paul

What he said, cracking work DW

Thank you Kev, much appreciated.
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Bit more work tonight.
The Clear Orange for the Rear Taillight.

Came from Emodels tonight, already have the Clear Red. Silver laid down so several coats of this will give a good effect.
Lots of Weathering goodies have also come this evening.




The Panzer has had another coat of this over decals to seal them in tonight.

We are getting close now to unleashing the Dogs of Weathering.
Stay safe all
DW

[Stokesy44]

He's got the tools, he's got the talent!

Looking forward to seeing how those products go

[BigWall]

He's got the tools, he's got the talent!

Looking forward to seeing how those products go

Agreed! I like the Wilder products. I need more experience with them though.

[Donkeywalloper]

He's got the tools, he's got the talent!

Looking forward to seeing how those products go

Agreed! I like the Wilder products. I need more experience with them though.

This is my first time using Wilder but I watched some videos from martin Kovacs (Nightshift), using Wilder to Weather and the effects were really spot on. My big paws may get effects like an Orangutan opening a banana Not as finessed.
Its gonna be fun this weekend.
Of course for me, my mood will change if The Foxes get thumped in FA then modelling could be put to one side.
DW

[Tomcat64]

Great to see you're cracking on with this DW - that's great progress, and like the other guys said I'm really looking forward to seeing how these weathering products work (can't have too many options for mud & dirt!)

And thanks for the info on the AK Lacquers - I might give them a go at some point.

Is there any baking on the agenda for this weekend?

[BigWall]

He's got the tools, he's got the talent!

Looking forward to seeing how those products go

Agreed! I like the Wilder products. I need more experience with them though.

This is my first time using Wilder but I watched some videos from martin Kovacs (Nightshift), using Wilder to Weather and the effects were really spot on. My big paws may get effects like an Orangutan opening a banana Not as finessed.
Its gonna be fun this weekend.
Of course for me, my mood will change if The Foxes get thumped in FA then modelling could be put to one side.
DW

That's how I came across them as well. They are very workable while wet but dry quickly and rock solidly. Work on a small area at a time and maybe even on a test subject to get the feel for them. I think my biggest difficulty is with how much to water them down so that they are not too thin or too thick.

[Donkeywalloper]

Good morning all



Hope you all remain safe, well looked after, and in touch with family members wherever they are in the world.

Well, what a weekend, I was up at the excess wind of a Sparrow and at 07:00 on the Saturday, I was in the Garden, plotting out Veg Patch for this year. We have gone for Tomato’s, Purple Kale, Peas, Onions (Shallots), and Courgettes or Zucchini to our Brothers over the Pond.

I finished off with some Grass cutting and edging of lawns Front and Back, and by this time, Mrs DW was up and about with the "Thuggery Cats" , so I could finish off 2nd Coat of Gloss on Stairs.

I am pleased to report, finally , that the Stairs have been finished with Paint, Caulk and other details. All decorating kit, washed, cleaned, dried and re-stored in garage.

All the time, my nervousness creeping for the up coming FA Final. Good golly I was nervous .

In all my nervousness, and after a hearty lunch, it was toss up of watch all the prelim on the TV or go and do a bit of work on Panzer 1 in Man Cave.

Toss came down on M/C

Off I went, into my silent retreat, with smells that let me know that I’m safe and happy in my favourite place.

I thought the first thing to do on the now Glossed Tank was a bit of Oil Dot works. I load dots of Oil on to scrap card to wick away excess Oils and used a mix of Prussian Blue, Lamp Black, Chalk White and Yellow. When applying, I try to get the lighter colours on the top of the panel being applied to, and darker in lower areas.


It’s a wee bit scary as you draw the moistened Flat Brush down, but if you keep working at it, and bear in mind, You cannot mess this up, because you can just remove if your not happy with result. The Prussian Blue left a very pleasing effect and toned everything down.



I also have been working on the rear Tail-Light for a while, that has required lots of Web studying to get some detail on colours used. Boy is their a lot of discussion on this, probably more than the mutterings on Panzer Wire Cutter Handle Colours.
As a lot of images are in B&W, its difficult to get accurate info, as I have seen images of Panzer 1 in Museums with incorrect Lamps, US Army Lamps, and so on and so on. All very confusing. I have decided to go for a General Consensus of Orange over Red. The Silver under and the Red Clear / Orange Clear is giving a nice effect. To my eyes anyway.


I used a little of this to dust around the Exhaust Outlet and on the Top Engine Grill, to give a blackened, Oily staining. This product is super long lasting as a little on the tip of a Bud is all that’s needed.


So with Blackening and Oil Dots, Voila

Next, out with the wonderful product that is Tamiya Panel-Line Accent Colour, Dark Brown. I have the Brown and Black and absolutely love the product. I always used to mix oils in past, but either to thin or to dark. This product is spot on.




Next, and nerves absolutely in bits by now as I have switched on TalkSport to listen to commentary of my beloved Leicester City take on the mighty Chelsea. Mrs DW asking why I’m in M/C and not watching 1st half. I am an absolute nightmare watching stuff like this live, best to stay put and busy my mind with this tank. I keep on Panel Line work, every Panel Line and every recessed Screw and bolt. But, finally, at ½ Time with Panel Line works completed, I go back inside as its 0 – 0 and I do want to watch the 2nd half.

What a second half, the FA Cup has always, in my mind, had a mystery, Giant-Killers, small teams taking on big teams………you get it if you follow Football. Mrs DW captured the moment her husband who spent most of the 2nd Half pacing around sofa, biting remnants of nails, scaring the bejesus out of the two cats when we let out the biggest shout as Tielmans scored with an absolute belter. The cats were found under the bed, absolutely petrified.

Well, I don’t have to say anymore really. What a result. Sublime. Mrs DW captured the moment we won on her Video and I was unaware she was filming. It will remain treasured footage.

Sunday, I was awake at 02:00 reading every write up on match and glowing inside with pride. Unable to sleep, I ventured out to M/C in the early morning.
I got out this product, another product that really is amazing and amazes how little gives effect. MIG / Modelling Pigment / Gun Metal. Again, a Q-Tip dipped into powder and rubbed around the Towing Hawser, brings up a lovely colour and accuracy. I also rubbed the MG Barrels with the powder, very gently and very little needed. I also rubbed along the Textured Exhaust pipe that runs along the side.



Moving on, next product, AK Interactive / Rust Streaks. A few localised dabs applied, and then a Flat Brush dipped in Thinners and dragged down surface. Not to much, just on front Glacis Plate and some areas at rear of Turret and Crew Side Access Hatch


I added a little more Tamiya Clear Orange X26 & Tamiya Clear Red X27 to Rear Light to bring out colour. The first applications look quite wishy washy and dull, as the coats are applied, the colours increase and the effect starts to build.



I wanted to get the Lower Hull a little dirty so with Tracks not yet fitted and not yet fitting the Front Drive Sprocket, Drive Sprocket installed (No Glue), I could apply straight out of Tub my first time with Wilder / Textured Earth / Light Europe / Stoney / TE12, Wow! Amazing stuff. Its so easy to apply. Quite wet in tub, and dries quickly, but with a wet Brush, reactivated to move it around. I didn’t go heavy, just light dusting all around Lower Hull and under Fenders.

I have prolonged this for a while, but as the Lower Hull is gonna get some weathering, I need to get the Individual Tracks on the vehicle. The instructions called out for a 96 links, but on trying this, I found it was a little to tight. So I added for each side 97. Perfect.
I had four Links over for Spares which I intend to use on Tank, but I didn’t for no reason I can think of, have enough of the Plastic Pins. No probs, I’ll use a length of Brass Rod.

I cut about an inch worth in length, to give strength when pulling the tracks around Wheels, Idler and Sprockets. I pushed the Rod through and used a dab of Jarvis Extra Thick C/A to secure each end of Track. Once dried, the extra length was snipped off with pliers.






The sag was perfect for tracks, some fettling required but the sag was spot on. No worries.
I then added some Wilder / Textured Earth / Dark Brown / Fine / TE03. Again, slop on and swirl around mostly front and Rear Idler, then correct with a wet brush.
Sunday evening, I had a few hours to finally add the Tools that I have been painting separately for so long.
The Axe. Really chuffed with Wood effect.

The Shovel.

Hook and Starting Handle.

Wooden Jack Box.

Whilst in the mood, using the Lifecolour Set, I used the Colonial sand / LPW05, with a brush and Cocktail Stick, and light flicking across the Front Glacis Plate, Fenders and up the sides, gradually lessening the effect as I travelled back. The Rear Plate was similarly treated the same.

This is the overall effect so far after this weekend. I’m really, really pleased with how its come together. I freaked out when I mucked up the Lifting Jack and the whole E Sprue debacle, but honestly, its really come together. Its in need of a bit more weathering and tweaking but its not far off completion.



A little bit of Aftermarket, the Metal Bucket, that has been weathered and such, requires some water in it. So this was mixed with some Brown Paint, and the effect will hopefully dry clear and coloured. I do need a chain from somewhere?


I thought I had some, but realised I’d run out, so ordered some MIG Engine Staines and some Wet Fluids effects.
Over the weekend, www.emodels.co.uk got me with their advertising, when I saw a 1/35 Centurion Tank MK 5 with Metal Barrel and loads of goodies / PE by AFV. Bought.
Its all going very well with this model now. I can glimpse the end product and just some more fettling, weathering and things like lights to go.
Hope you're enjoying the ride?
As always Mon Ami, stay safe, take care.
DW

[Stokesy44]

Fantastic post. Loved all the background stuff and the FA Cup saga!

The tank is looking amazing. Brilliant weathering and the build up of effects using various products and mediums.

This is why I love the forum.

[Parker]

That’s looking fantastic!

Hell of a shot by Tielmans. Enjoy.

[digger303]

Great post and up date.The axe handle came out exceptional well. What do you think of the Aqua magic...does it look like water or does it tend not to stick to edges and have a rounded look ? I'm trying to find a good product.
I've been trying to paint one of those tail lights and always mange to spread the paint too far, but you nailed it well.

[BigWall]

It's really looking great! I like your idea of putting some water in the bucket.

[Donkeywalloper]

Great post and up date.The axe handle came out exceptional well. What do you think of the Aqua magic...does it look like water or does it tend not to stick to edges and have a rounded look ? I'm trying to find a good product.
I've been trying to paint one of those tail lights and always mange to spread the paint too far, but you nailed it well.

Cheers Digger
Not sure about Aqua Magic, not sure if been on shelf to long as poured on Sunday and as of yesterday (Tuesday), still not fully cured.
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

It's really looking great! I like your idea of putting some water in the bucket.

As always Joe, thank you.
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Good morning fellow stretchers of Sprue and Masters of which Paint is the best for Hairy Brush Painting…..,

How are we all in this glorious and messy world that we all are crammed into?

I had a cheeky moment in the M/C on Tuesday morning, prior to a Medical appointment in town, that meant I had a “bit of hanging around” before I went to see Quacks. I was able on a glorious sunny and for a change, rainless morning, having time to spend an hour in the M/C.

This model looks glorious, and I’m very happy with presently how its come out and the progress made, that’s not Brass Instrument blowing by myself . Every model made, gives one chances to improve techniques or develop techniques further already know, we just keep on learning .

I had such prior misgivings over the bigger scale models. Primarily because of size and sorry for repeating myself, the larger the scale, the more mistakes can be seen. I still have a 1/35 Dragon Panzer 1 in stock, compared to this 1/16, it really is tiny.

So back to Tuesday morning, what could I do whilst hanging around for Quacks? I spied on shelves some MIG Productions / Pigments / Mid Brown / Dry Lake 2 / P057.


With a blob of this pigment applied to a Q-Tip, this was applied to tops of Fenders close to Front Mud Fenders and around Engine Deck and around Lifting Jack. This was very lightly applied and a little Pigment fixer applied to areas to hold pigment in place.



This was all that was done, so it was off to Quacks. Happily, and that day and with real speed on the part of www.emodels.co.uk this came.





This was advertised as “New” and as I have a great love for the Centurion and après WW2 British Armour. My favourite tank all time is the Chieftain. An absolute knacker of an engine, constantly breaking down, but boy what a gun and shape for the times. The Centurion was a little to late for the Second War, and one wonders what the hell it would have been like against Panthers and Tiger 2’s?
I have a couple of Centurion’s in stock already and this seemed a great price £40. I have never built an AFV model, so I’m interested in build and quality. I have read a couple of reviews of this model, and it comes with Metal 105mm Barrel, PE, Working Suspension i.e. Coiled Metal Springs, separate Rubber Tyres for wheels. If you look at the Box Artwork you can see a great looking Canvas Mantlet.
Not in the box. No description of it in Instructions, nothing. That’s weird isn’t it? I think so. Isn’t it Sold as Seen?
I went on Fields of Glory website (FOG) last night and managed to acquire an AFV manufactured Canvas Gun Mantlet cover for £9. These seem to have been just released and again a little short on the ground, as I found a lot of suppliers Out of Stock last night.
Just awaiting in a few days a delivery of MIG Productions Fuel Stains and Fresh Engine Oil.
Its all good stuff this.
As always, take good care and stay safe Mon Amis

DW

[ForeverPlasticKits]

Your Pz I is fantastic, i love the 2-tone paint! And all the details are so realistic.

Have fun with your Centurion, you'll make an Israel version?

[digger303]

Lovely weathered paint surface and a great build.
The Centurion does lack that mantlet cover and Red Roo models in OZ do two suitable for the VN era and Aussie Mk 5 tanks. I know you already have one, but they were also doing other add ons as well. Replacement tyres, extra fuel tank, tool box and the like all suitable for Vietnam.

[BigWall]

It's looking absolutely great!

I just saw a picture of a Centurion with added on armor plates that was used in the gulf war to remove damaged vehicles from a road. Pretty amazing life span.

[Donkeywalloper]

Your Pz I is fantastic, i love the 2-tone paint! And all the details are so realistic.

Have fun with your Centurion, you'll make an Israel version?

Good morning chap
Thank you so much for kind comment. Not sure at moment on Centurion. Probably standard UK or maybe a Danish version. I have a Shot (Israeli) version in stock so looking forward to that. I tried last night to buy a 1/35 Comet Tank as well, but cannot get one for love nor money. I have a notion to build a British Tanks, all after WW2, so Centurion, Conquer (which again is in my pile, and was a pressie from Mrs DW), Comet have completed a Chieftain (Tamiya) but would like to build a Takom version.
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

It's looking absolutely great!

I just saw a picture of a Centurion with added on armour plates that was used in the gulf war to remove damaged vehicles from a road. Pretty amazing life span.

I got a few books last night off Amazon Joe. both Centurion, one the Haynes and the other Images of War. The Centurion (and it was difficult to see original lines, was being used in the 90's by South Africa Armoured Brigades with all manner of new Spaced Armour, Sighting and Gunnery upgrades.
Amazing lifetime indeed.
Take care,
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Lovely weathered paint surface and a great build.
The Centurion does lack that mantlet cover and Red Roo models in OZ do two suitable for the VN era and Aussie Mk 5 tanks. I know you already have one, but they were also doing other add ons as well. Replacement tyres, extra fuel tank, tool box and the like all suitable for Vietnam.

Hi Digger
As normal the £40 paid for the AFV has turned into £50 with addition of Mantlet. I was even looking at Fruil Tracks last night at £30 (Out of Stock unfortunately).
I was commenting to Joe, that I have bought a Haynes and Images of War books and saw a Centurion Mk5 towing a Fuel trailer. That would be an amazing model.
I mentioned to Mrs DW in passing at the weekend how I was running out of storage for completed models in my hovel.
I nearly fell off chair when she said, "Ikea do a Glass Display case that we could have in the House"
Blimey, acceptance for she who must be obeyed.
DW

[BigWall]

[digger303]

Lovely weathered paint surface and a great build.
The Centurion does lack that mantlet cover and Red Roo models in OZ do two suitable for the VN era and Aussie Mk 5 tanks. I know you already have one, but they were also doing other add ons as well. Replacement tyres, extra fuel tank, tool box and the like all suitable for Vietnam.

Hi Digger
As normal the £40 paid for the AFV has turned into £50 with addition of Mantlet. I was even looking at Fruil Tracks last night at £30 (Out of Stock unfortunately).
I was commenting to Joe, that I have bought a Haynes and Images of War books and saw a Centurion Mk5 towing a Fuel trailer. That would be an amazing model.
I mentioned to Mrs DW in passing at the weekend how I was running out of storage for completed models in my hovel.
I nearly fell off chair when she said, "Ikea do a Glass Display case that we could have in the House"
Blimey, acceptance for she who must be obeyed.
DW

Good to hear....I've still got buckleys
One good thing about those Ikea cases it is possible to add extra shelves with a little ingenuity. So it might be a good idea to get some extra's while they have them.

[Donkeywalloper]

Morning all you lovely people out there

Hope as usual, you, you’re families are remaining safe, looked after and keeping well?

So, having taken the “Long and Winding Road” home last night through bucket loads of rain and heavy winds, I arrived back to find Mrs DW (on a day off), out for the count upstairs. She started back to work fully this Monday (she’s been back in to work in a Flexi Furlough position for a month now), but from Monday 17th, in the UK, work has spiralled out of control.

As one of the Key Workers who worked through the whole of the Lockdowns here in the UK, and I remarked at work yesterday, that this time last year, I was driving to work on unoccupied roads with my little letter in car, from Bosses telling the Police if stopped, never happened, that I was a Key Worker lol (My Brother-in-Law was stopped so many times in Lockdown, he had to be re-issued a new Key Worker letter),

I am aware that to be off, and then thrown back into the “Cauldron” again, is a shock to the Mental and Physical state. Some will laugh and say “Good, get on with it”, but I have empathy for all Workers over this weird and unprecedented period in the Worlds History, who have been Furloughed for so long, and then are back in to all its pleasures.

Back to yesterday evening, I arrived home to find Mrs DW “Conked Out” on bed, sleeping dreamingly with two cats laying across her equally slumbered.

What to do with my time ?

We all know where this is going don’t we, what’s a Man to do with time on his hand? Off to Man-Cave then……

I had an Amazon delivery yesterday evening. Couple of books for the Centurion build (why I think this is gonna be the next build, heavens only knows).

Images of War Special / The Centurion Tank

The other book is the Haynes / Centurion Main Battle Tank / Owners Workshop Manual


It’s a lovely book full of great images and even the Morning Prep Start-Up Maintenance Guide (should you have a Centurion in your Garage).

So humming and ahhing on what little job I could do, and not wanting, due to tiredness, committing to full on weathering. A little job I wanted to do, was Bare Metal the tracks leading edges.
I usually use a Cloth or a Strong Kitchen Towel, load some Metal Paint on to Cloth / Paper and rub the high spots. For this I used Mr Metalcolour / 218 / Alminume (sic). This needs a through good shake, and then with a strong paper towel sheet wrapped around Index finger, its rubbed on tracks leading edges.

Looks a bit stark at first but with a little weathering and pigments, it will tone down.

It was then I saw my glaring mistake.

I looked again, again and again. Rechecked Instructions.
Yup, I have put tracks on wrong way on one side £”@)*&^%$ ?@)(*&%$£ and associated filth spilled out of my mouth. I stuck the Tracks on model on Sunday. In my haste, I had put one track on the wrong way around. Right, no probs, Dremel out, Drill Bit in, and drill through Plastic Track Rod. Parted Tracks, then swapped them around so they look as per pictures and Instructions.
Its all good, all sorted.

Having completed this and put track back together again with another Brass Rod, glued into place with Thick C/A, can’t see a thing, wouldn’t know I had been there.
And breath. By then Mrs DW has awoken form slumber and an SMS to me to attend Tea.

This weekend, I’m kind of hoping to complete this model, or near as damn it. I have a bit of fine chain in post from AK for Bucket to attach to Rear plate, but everything else is on Bench, set up and ready to go. Apart of course from Engine Stains Product from Emodels that should be with me today.

Here’s to a great weekend everyone, may your Plastic not break, your Glue be strong and we all read the instructions, well me anyway.

DW

[BigWall]

I had to laugh at the bit about reading the instructions. Mine have managed to disappear. I don't even remotely know how that could have happened. Thank goodness for scalemates.

The model is looking excellent.

[digger303]

Morning all you lovely people out there

Hope as usual, you, you’re families are remaining safe, looked after and keeping well?

So, having taken the “Long and Winding Road” home last night through bucket loads of rain and heavy winds, I arrived back to find Mrs DW (on a day off), out for the count upstairs. She started back to work fully this Monday (she’s been back in to work in a Flexi Furlough position for a month now), but from Monday 17th, in the UK, work has spiralled out of control.

As one of the Key Workers who worked through the whole of the Lockdowns here in the UK, and I remarked at work yesterday, that this time last year, I was driving to work on unoccupied roads with my little letter in car, from Bosses telling the Police if stopped, never happened, that I was a Key Worker lol (My Brother-in-Law was stopped so many times in Lockdown, he had to be re-issued a new Key Worker letter),

I am aware that to be off, and then thrown back into the “Cauldron” again, is a shock to the Mental and Physical state. Some will laugh and say “Good, get on with it”, but I have empathy for all Workers over this weird and unprecedented period in the Worlds History, who have been Furloughed for so long, and then are back in to all its pleasures.

Back to yesterday evening, I arrived home to find Mrs DW “Conked Out” on bed, sleeping dreamingly with two cats laying across her equally slumbered.

What to do with my time ?

We all know where this is going don’t we, what’s a Man to do with time on his hand? Off to Man-Cave then……

I had an Amazon delivery yesterday evening. Couple of books for the Centurion build (why I think this is gonna be the next build, heavens only knows).

Images of War Special / The Centurion Tank

The other book is the Haynes / Centurion Main Battle Tank / Owners Workshop Manual


It’s a lovely book full of great images and even the Morning Prep Start-Up Maintenance Guide (should you have a Centurion in your Garage).

So humming and ahhing on what little job I could do, and not wanting, due to tiredness, committing to full on weathering. A little job I wanted to do, was Bare Metal the tracks leading edges.
I usually use a Cloth or a Strong Kitchen Towel, load some Metal Paint on to Cloth / Paper and rub the high spots. For this I used Mr Metalcolour / 218 / Alminume (sic). This needs a through good shake, and then with a strong paper towel sheet wrapped around Index finger, its rubbed on tracks leading edges.

Looks a bit stark at first but with a little weathering and pigments, it will tone down.

It was then I saw my glaring mistake.

I looked again, again and again. Rechecked Instructions.
Yup, I have put tracks on wrong way on one side £”@)*&^%$ ?@)(*&%$£ and associated filth spilled out of my mouth. I stuck the Tracks on model on Sunday. In my haste, I had put one track on the wrong way around. Right, no probs, Dremel out, Drill Bit in, and drill through Plastic Track Rod. Parted Tracks, then swapped them around so they look as per pictures and Instructions.
Its all good, all sorted.

Having completed this and put track back together again with another Brass Rod, glued into place with Thick C/A, can’t see a thing, wouldn’t know I had been there.
And breath. By then Mrs DW has awoken form slumber and an SMS to me to attend Tea.

This weekend, I’m kind of hoping to complete this model, or near as damn it. I have a bit of fine chain in post from AK for Bucket to attach to Rear plate, but everything else is on Bench, set up and ready to go. Apart of course from Engine Stains Product from Emodels that should be with me today.

Here’s to a great weekend everyone, may your Plastic not break, your Glue be strong and we all read the instructions, well me anyway.

DW

Had a little laugh at your expense I'm afraid over the track incident.
In envy mode over those 2 books though. I've got a centurion 5 with a load of mods to load on it for 1967.

[Kevthemodeller]

Fantastic post. Loved all the background stuff and the FA Cup saga!

The tank is looking amazing. Brilliant weathering and the build up of effects using various products and mediums.

This is why I love the forum.

Couldn't have put it better myself

[Stokesy44]

What a great way to start the morning, reading DW's awesome update.

Great stuff on the tank tracks and the new literature. I do exactly the same thing with my tracks using Vallejo Metal Color. Works a treat.

I couldnt agree more about the effects of going back to work after a prolonged break. I was fortunate enough to work from home throughout the lockdown and have been back in the office now for the last 3 weeks. I am exhausted come Friday evening but it makes me enjoy my weekend more now that I see it as a proper oasis between the working weeks.

All I need now is fine lady akin to a Mrs DW and I'll be living my best life!

[digger303]

What a great way to start the morning, reading DW's awesome update.

Great stuff on the tank tracks and the new literature. I do exactly the same thing with my tracks using Vallejo Metal Color. Works a treat.

I couldnt agree more about the effects of going back to work after a prolonged break. I was fortunate enough to work from home throughout the lockdown and have been back in the office now for the last 3 weeks. I am exhausted come Friday evening but it makes me enjoy my weekend more now that I see it as a proper oasis between the working weeks.

All I need now is fine lady akin to a Mrs DW and I'll be living my best life!

Give us the the green light and we'll organize some profiles....

[Stokesy44]

What a great way to start the morning, reading DW's awesome update.

Great stuff on the tank tracks and the new literature. I do exactly the same thing with my tracks using Vallejo Metal Color. Works a treat.

I couldnt agree more about the effects of going back to work after a prolonged break. I was fortunate enough to work from home throughout the lockdown and have been back in the office now for the last 3 weeks. I am exhausted come Friday evening but it makes me enjoy my weekend more now that I see it as a proper oasis between the working weeks.

All I need now is fine lady akin to a Mrs DW and I'll be living my best life!

Give us the the green light and we'll organize some profiles....

Great idea. I was just going to ask DW if his Mrs has a Sister......

[Donkeywalloper]

I had to laugh at the bit about reading the instructions. Mine have managed to disappear. I don't even remotely know how that could have happened. Thank goodness for scalemates.

The model is looking excellent.

I keep doing it Joe, not reading instructions that is. For God's sake, just read the instructions Man and keep on the narrow path to happiness.

DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Morning all you lovely people out there

Hope as usual, you, you’re families are remaining safe, looked after and keeping well?

So, having taken the “Long and Winding Road” home last night through bucket loads of rain and heavy winds, I arrived back to find Mrs DW (on a day off), out for the count upstairs. She started back to work fully this Monday (she’s been back in to work in a Flexi Furlough position for a month now), but from Monday 17th, in the UK, work has spiralled out of control.

As one of the Key Workers who worked through the whole of the Lockdowns here in the UK, and I remarked at work yesterday, that this time last year, I was driving to work on unoccupied roads with my little letter in car, from Bosses telling the Police if stopped, never happened, that I was a Key Worker lol (My Brother-in-Law was stopped so many times in Lockdown, he had to be re-issued a new Key Worker letter),

I am aware that to be off, and then thrown back into the “Cauldron” again, is a shock to the Mental and Physical state. Some will laugh and say “Good, get on with it”, but I have empathy for all Workers over this weird and unprecedented period in the Worlds History, who have been Furloughed for so long, and then are back in to all its pleasures.

Back to yesterday evening, I arrived home to find Mrs DW “Conked Out” on bed, sleeping dreamingly with two cats laying across her equally slumbered.

What to do with my time ?

We all know where this is going don’t we, what’s a Man to do with time on his hand? Off to Man-Cave then……

I had an Amazon delivery yesterday evening. Couple of books for the Centurion build (why I think this is gonna be the next build, heavens only knows).

Images of War Special / The Centurion Tank

The other book is the Haynes / Centurion Main Battle Tank / Owners Workshop Manual


It’s a lovely book full of great images and even the Morning Prep Start-Up Maintenance Guide (should you have a Centurion in your Garage).

So humming and ahhing on what little job I could do, and not wanting, due to tiredness, committing to full on weathering. A little job I wanted to do, was Bare Metal the tracks leading edges.
I usually use a Cloth or a Strong Kitchen Towel, load some Metal Paint on to Cloth / Paper and rub the high spots. For this I used Mr Metalcolour / 218 / Alminume (sic). This needs a through good shake, and then with a strong paper towel sheet wrapped around Index finger, its rubbed on tracks leading edges.

Looks a bit stark at first but with a little weathering and pigments, it will tone down.

It was then I saw my glaring mistake.

I looked again, again and again. Rechecked Instructions.
Yup, I have put tracks on wrong way on one side £”@)*&^%$ ?@)(*&%$£ and associated filth spilled out of my mouth. I stuck the Tracks on model on Sunday. In my haste, I had put one track on the wrong way around. Right, no probs, Dremel out, Drill Bit in, and drill through Plastic Track Rod. Parted Tracks, then swapped them around so they look as per pictures and Instructions.
Its all good, all sorted.

Having completed this and put track back together again with another Brass Rod, glued into place with Thick C/A, can’t see a thing, wouldn’t know I had been there.
And breath. By then Mrs DW has awoken form slumber and an SMS to me to attend Tea.

This weekend, I’m kind of hoping to complete this model, or near as damn it. I have a bit of fine chain in post from AK for Bucket to attach to Rear plate, but everything else is on Bench, set up and ready to go. Apart of course from Engine Stains Product from Emodels that should be with me today.

Here’s to a great weekend everyone, may your Plastic not break, your Glue be strong and we all read the instructions, well me anyway.

DW

Had a little laugh at your expense I'm afraid over the track incident.
In envy mode over those 2 books though. I've got a centurion 5 with a load of mods to load on it for 1967.

I just couldn't get to upset at the time as its not the first time I have screwed up on this or other models.
Maybe one day I'll choose to really read the instructions once, maybe twice.

DW

[Donkeywalloper]

What a great way to start the morning, reading DW's awesome update.

Great stuff on the tank tracks and the new literature. I do exactly the same thing with my tracks using Vallejo Metal Color. Works a treat.

I couldnt agree more about the effects of going back to work after a prolonged break. I was fortunate enough to work from home throughout the lockdown and have been back in the office now for the last 3 weeks. I am exhausted come Friday evening but it makes me enjoy my weekend more now that I see it as a proper oasis between the working weeks.

All I need now is fine lady akin to a Mrs DW and I'll be living my best life!

Cheers chap, shes not a bad gal puttling up with a great apeth like me.
Thanks for looking in and comments that makes me think its all worth it.

DW

[Donkeywalloper]

What a great way to start the morning, reading DW's awesome update.

Great stuff on the tank tracks and the new literature. I do exactly the same thing with my tracks using Vallejo Metal Color. Works a treat.

I couldnt agree more about the effects of going back to work after a prolonged break. I was fortunate enough to work from home throughout the lockdown and have been back in the office now for the last 3 weeks. I am exhausted come Friday evening but it makes me enjoy my weekend more now that I see it as a proper oasis between the working weeks.

All I need now is fine lady akin to a Mrs DW and I'll be living my best life!

Give us the the green light and we'll organize some profiles....

Great idea. I was just going to ask DW if his Mrs has a Sister......

She does........and single, Oh God, pack this in, its not dating site
Only one crackpot Modeller allowed in this family.
DW

[Donkeywalloper]

Morning all

Hope you, you’re families and loved ones are remaining safe and secure in this tiny troubled world .

Well, continuation of works on Panzer 1 is progressing well, and I can honestly see 1. Improvement in my Modelling skills, and 2, the end of this build.

Saturday 22.5,21, saw some more work on Lower Hull weathering, still using the last of the three Wilder, Textured Earth Products, which I have found to be brilliant. Very easy to work with and more importantly, re-work i.e. bit of water and the product gets wet and usable again.
I used the last of the three Wilder / Textured Earth / Dark Brown / TE04 / Stoney on and around all of Lower Hull.

[url=https://flic.kr/p/2kZVrsw]
[/url]

I finally on Saturday, got around to opening up deliveries of the following products from www.emodels.co.uk i.e. MIG Productions, Fuel Stains and AK Interactive Engine Oil.



I also received the DEF Model, Centurion Mk6/1 Mantlet w/Canvas Cover Set.

The MIG Productions Fuel Stains was applied around the Petrol / Fuel hatch and allowed to naturally “Dribble” down to give a realistic effect of overspill.


The AK Interactive Engine Oil was used around the Engine Hatches and via capillary action in and around panels and with the use of a moistened (Thinners), Pointed Brush, disturbed in and around Engine deck.


I then moved on to a little job I have been putting off for a whiles but with all major weathering completed, this can be tasked. Not used these pens before, but seen other Modellers using them to great effect. Molotow Liquid Chrome (3 x Pens of different sizes). Absolutely brilliant, and that is a pun. The effect with these pens is amazing for Chrome effects. Very easy to apply and direct into where you want it. The effect is so good.




I then removed the Clear Parts from Sprue and sanded lightly edges. I then with a Cocktail Stick applied some small drops of Canopy Glue to edges and pushed the lenses into apertures with a Cocktail Stick with a Blue Tack Ball on end.
They look bang on.


I then got out my box of dried leaves collected from Garden over the years and with the aid of my RP Toolz Leaf Cutter and of course selecting 1/16, I selected Maple Leaves.


After some careful cutting out and with a nice collection of leaves, I added a small blob of Canopy Glue on place when leaf to be attached and stuck the leaf on.




I think it gives a nice effect.
I then loaded up the Apex with Tamiya XF-57 Buff and sprayed from below and around in a very fine mist, a tin coat of the Buff.




Its very difficult to see in images but it gives a nice toned down effect to model and a suitable dusting of model.
The final task on Saturday evening, and it was getting late into evening, was to give the model two coats of the following.


Of course, what this means in my mind, is that finally, honestly, really its finished.
Here are some images of finished model. I really would like to take some better images of models and show them off to a better effect.






I did add the Enamel Bucket on to Two Hook and the only real addition to this is a very fine Rusty Chain I have in the post from AK.

That is it though. I have no more to offer on this model. Have I enjoyed it? Hell yes! Not of course my @)%& up with Lifting Jack and the fun of getting a Spare Sprue from Takom, but we all learn from our mistakes eventually.
It’s a great kit if you want to get into 1/16. Great price and genuinely fun to build. Please, please read my mistakes regarding Lifting Jacks if you do buy one, and don’t make my mistake.
I really want to get the Ausf A now and have a go at that.
Thank you so much for all of your lovely and uplifting comments, I honestly appreciate all comments and its spurred me on to complete a super model. Its my best model so far and a lot of that comes down to your inspiration and pep talks.
You may know my habits when I finish a model / project / torture.
Everything returned to its right place. Paints back in racks (check lids on), Brushes cleaned carefully down to ferrules. Dried and put back in Brush Holders. Everything returned to its right place.
Work Bench cleared off. Polish out.

Towel that protects Work Bench thrown into wash and suitable new towel placed on bench.

Floors hoovered.

All Modelling Kit placed back on Bench
Ready to go for new project, but what’s next? US, Russian, British, German? 1/35, 1/72, 1/48, choices, choices, choices
As always, could not do it without you lot, Mic dropped PEACE!
DW

[Stokesy44]

Fantastic finish to a very fine build and thread.

Its a superb final effect you have there with all the layers. The fuel stains around the filler caps are genius and I cant wait to try and emulate your skills on my own build. What really impresses me though is how skillful every layer has been applied. The result is that the original paintwork still looks RIGHT and to scale under the applied mediums that followed on.

Its easy to see how much you enjoyed it all and beyond that, the thread content covering all the fun and japes at home - just classic.

Bravo Sir, bravo

[RangerNeil]

Would this be the time to point out that there are no less than THREE Centurions for sale in Diggers homeland? Just outside Brisbane for between AU$85,000 and AU$120,000 - the latter having its 105mm gun.... You could take the ultimate step and become a 1:1 scale modeller.