Second Sphere

Hobby Creations => Hobby => Topic started by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 02:00:41 PM

Title: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 02:00:41 PM
Thought I'd start a Log showing the various conversions/paint jobs for my Tau Cadre, Von'ta. I'll post each unit in its own post, in order to separate and update them easier.

Shas'O Vorcah

Shas'O Vorcah, the promoted hero of Sha'draig. He leads his troops into battle in a modified XV88 chassis, the XV98 Impasse Battlesuit. It bears augmented armour plating compared to its predecessor, and has integrated Shield Generators. Vorcah believes that a good Commander must always lead from the front, a sentiment born from his days as a Fireblade leading the forces of Sha'draig against Hive Fleet Gorgon. If a bullet is to fall upon anyone in his force, he would prefer it to be him.

He bears an Ion Carbine into combat, allowing his to wreak havoc on light vehicles at medium range:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-56.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-56.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-55.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-55.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-54.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-54.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 02:04:46 PM
MV-60 Kor'vesa'ui

The Kor'vesa'ui is a new generation of data analysing and parsing Drone, which is actually a gestalt consciousness composed of 3 Drones. The upper disc contains two Drones dedicated to hacking Gue'la communications, disseminating the data, and updating the Commander with the positions of their units. The lower section is commanded by the most potent of the 3, and is dedicated to sensor scanning and analysing. The vast processing capabilities scan enemy targets with a variety of multi-spectral tools, allowing it to update the tactical displays of nearby Crisis suits with targeting aids. This has resulted in a marked increase in unit effectiveness.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131216_23_38_44_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131216_23_38_44_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131216_23_39_18_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131216_23_39_18_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131216_23_39_03_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131216_23_39_03_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 02:09:31 PM
Angelshark

Given the scarcity of parts in this area of the Zeist sector, our Fio'vre has been forced to make do with what resources we have available. One example was during the refitting of a Razorshark whose weapon was damaged in combat. Upon finding that our allotment of Ion weapon components had run out, Fio'vre Vas'yr opted to use a rack of missiles in lieu of the Ion weapons. The 'Angelshark,' as our Gue'vesa have named it, can fire small salvos of missiles at individual targets. However, Vas'yr has also programmed an algorithm to allow the missiles to fire in clusters programmed to explode before impacting the ground, allow them to affect large areas with the blast. This has proven effective, though there is an issue with the missile cluster sometimes exploding in mid-air and risking damage to the craft. Further augmentation is ongoing.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131208_22_48_05_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131208_22_48_05_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131208_22_47_37_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131208_22_47_37_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 02:13:53 PM
Gue'vesa Sentinels

Our Gue'vesa have proven to be valuable assets, and several of their primitive 'Sentinels' have been chosen to be augmented and equipped with firepower more suited to a Tau Auxiliary. Though the vehicles are somewhat cumbersome, they have proven effective in static Anti-Air roles, using guidance systems to augment the Gue'vesa's aim.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131205_23_57_06_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131205_23_57_06_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131205_23_56_25_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131205_23_56_25_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Thantos on December 17, 2013, 03:42:10 PM
Nice stuff :D Like the conversions for the drone and that sentinel is bad-ass! Do you think hes got enough rockets though? ;)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on December 17, 2013, 09:43:11 PM
Oh. My. Bitz Box! These are some truly interesting conversions :)

I personally like the Sentinal and Suit most, but thats my preference for the Bipeds :P
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 11:03:58 PM
Thanks, those are just the few I managed to post during my lunch break. Here's a few more. :)

Piranha Squadron:

Piranhas have proven essential in our Anti-Armour efforts during operations on Von'ta. After discussions between the Fire Caste and Earth Caste, it was deemed that Gunner duty should fall to the pilot, while the former Gunner should man a rear weapon for close defense against fast-moving chasers. This has not impacted the accuracy of the main weapon, and has given the Piranha an extra defensive asset useful in its job.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131114_23_44_34_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131114_23_44_34_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131114_23_44_59_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131114_23_44_59_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 11:09:16 PM
Firesight Marksmen

Vital in reconnaissance and serving as Spotters for our Cadre, these Shas'la are experts in the field of covert operations and cover usage. Equipped with Marker Binoculars, they can guide both their accompanying Sniper Drones and other units' fire onto targets as needed.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20131113_00_33_08_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20131113_00_33_08_Pro.jpg.html)

Shadow Team

Our campaign has been long and bloody, and the death toll on our initiate Shas'la has been severe in cases, especially against the enemy 'Space Marines.' Though they have yet to pass their Trial by Fire, due to the isolation of our Sept, each of these Shas'la has the tactical knowledge and experience of a far more seasoned veteran in the field. May each bear their future Crisis suits well.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-48.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-48.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-49.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-49.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 11:16:59 PM
Shas'O Nei'ly Au'taal

A young Commander, Nei'ly has barely left the stage in his life of being a Shas'el, and still works beside Vorcah as a student rather than a fellow Commander. His brash attitude can be either brave or foolhardy to those looking on, the only difference being the success of his close strike tactics with his Plasma Rifles.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-46.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-46.jpg.html)

Shas'el Ko'vaar

A sub-Commander working to Nei'ly's advice, Ko'vaar sports two Burst Flamers, that switch between hails of Pulse Fire to tear apart enemies at range, to a deadly stream of 'cold' Plasma flame at close range. He accompanies Nei'ly as a Bodyguard, his quick reactions and deathly jets of flame often being the deciding factor in Nei'ly's bravery or foolhardiness.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-51.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-51.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 17, 2013, 11:26:01 PM
Shas'O Vorcah's Bodyguard

Dedicated Shas'vre who seek to aid Vorcah in his battles. Each has a custom set of armour and weaponry, showing the tactical divergence that will define them as a Shas'O in the years to come.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-43.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-43.jpg.html)

XV8-03 'Standoff' Battlesuits

These suits were a last-ditch effort by the Earth Caste on Sha'draig, to create a weapons platform capable of stemming the horde's advance. Their rapid redeployment and unending hail of fire held the line admirably, however the newer organisms with a resistance to Pulse fire easily weathered their fire and tore the inhabitants out of their suits. Of the twelve originally created, only these two remain to continue to bear firepower against the enemy.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-42.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-42.jpg.html)

Tetra Squadron

The firepower of Von'ta needs constant support to ensure that the enemy is correctly engaged and that Shas'O Vorcah's tactical plans are going as intended. To this end, Tetras are but one source of the Markerlights that guide the Cadre to victory, but they are the most mobile, capable of delivering the needed support swiftly and accurately.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-38.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-38.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on December 18, 2013, 09:02:44 AM
Loving all the weapon conversions ^_^

I've seen several of these before of ATT (the weapons, not your suits :P) and imo the're kinda signature for that site :)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 18, 2013, 01:47:22 PM
Thanks, the weapons were fun to put together, especially the double-barrelled Plasma Rifle on the Bodyguard on the right.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on December 20, 2013, 11:59:04 PM
Would love to see more :)

Anything else you're hiding away from us? ;)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 22, 2013, 03:04:27 PM
A little more, haven't been getting much done lately, I'm afraid...

Gue'vesa

Loyal to their core, it was of little difficulty for our Ethereals to fan the sparks of their religious fervour to light a flame in the name of the Greater Good. More civilised and capable of using technology than the Kroot, and being in extreme abundance in the galaxy, these Gue'vesa are to be the groundbreakers in seeing whether mankind will be the Tau'va's greatest asset in claiming the galaxy. As such we have ensured their lives will be comfortable and their ambitions to be integrated fully into our Cadres made real. Words whisper that a Gue'vesa may even be about to attain the Hero's Mantle, the honoured tradition of bearing a Crisis Battlesuit into combat.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/temporary-63.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/temporary-63.jpg.html)

Pathfinders

Brave scouts who forge their way through enemy fire to provide the support the Cadre needs. They provide the Markerlights needed to direct firepower towards the enemy with unerring efficiency.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/temporary-60.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/temporary-60.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on December 22, 2013, 07:21:21 PM
I'm seeing a lot of special weapons in that Gue'vesa unit. did you build it to be game-legal, or for looking cool?

Also, awkwardly makes me want to build some Gue'vesa myself -_- DAMN YOU CG!!! :P

I'll be honest and say the Pathfinders seem a little bit strnagely posed. It might be the camera angle, but some seem to be nearly falling over ^_^;;
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Arguleon-veq on December 22, 2013, 08:36:54 PM
Some great models, I really like those Sniper Drone Spotters.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 22, 2013, 11:20:59 PM
The Pathfinders are positioned to see like they're running forward, one of the first kits I built. They're not falling over, though, probably the camera angle.

Those Gue'vesa are just a mish-mash of weapons, though I've used them as-kitted for a silly squad-oriented game we ran based on Mordheim, but for 40K. Those random weapons came in handy. The second squad currently being painted are all equipped with Pulse Rifles, and I've painted them a more desert yellow to give the impression that they're Taronian veterans, and are thus more integrated and regimented.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on December 22, 2013, 11:29:35 PM
You should post up some WIP shots ^_^ Wouldn't mind seeing some "regimented" Gue'vesa ;)

Nice to hear those Gue'vesa aren't for gaming. I've had too many experiences of hobbyists and new players trying to use there pretty damn cool conversions and kit-bashes in games, but have been disheartened becuase their unit is not game-legal. It something I try and warn new players about.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on December 22, 2013, 11:59:20 PM
My local's very laid back with that regard. So long as it's not ridiculously different to what it's representing, they're fine. Hence the Sentinel-Broadsides and the like.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 01, 2014, 02:13:39 PM
Fusion Blade Shas'O:

My answer to the need to proxy Farsight in the future, or a Shas'O with a Fusion Blade. The blade itself is still setting, and will receive some TLC from a file and knife before I finalise it. Very hard to find the right balance between, 'immaterial stream of superheated particles,' and, 'coherent blade of cutty doom.'

He's also been heavily converted in line with the Crisis Suit Modernisation (http://www.advancedtautactica.com/viewtopic.php?f=21&t=21522&hilit=modernisation) tutorial by Foresight. Heavily, and a little shoddily. I've plans to file and smooth off the rough edges, and use a little Liquid Green Stuff to make him less...scrappy.

Figured it'd be fun to run one of these in an all-suits Farsight list, given his stats are similar to a Space Marine's, and that he can psych out Power Fists by cutting them up first.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140101_12_34_52_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140101_12_34_52_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140101_12_35_01_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140101_12_35_01_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140101_12_35_16_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140101_12_35_16_Pro.jpg.html)

Missile Pod Suits:

Built due to both my inherent addiction to Crisis Suits, (in the building, playing and painting - so much fun in each!) These guys accompany O'Vorcah and the converted Support Drone to create a little Star O'Death to anything short of Power Armour or AV13/14.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140101_12_35_35_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140101_12_35_35_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on January 01, 2014, 06:08:28 PM
I'll be honest, I don't like that dudes' take on "Modernising" Tau Battlesuits. XV8 (and indeed XV15 & 25) Customisation has been around far longer than GWs re-design, has has produced far cooler and more aesthetically pleasing suits than that tutorial seems to. Case and point: here (http://warhammer-tau-army.blogspot.co.uk/2009/01/tau-battlesuit-conversions.html), and to go to ATT: here (http://www.advancedtautactica.com/viewtopic.php?f=35&t=18243&st=0&sk=t&sd=a).

Having said that, your suits do seem to work, as you seem to not rely so heavily on Plasticard and in fact use other Tau pieces to fill space.

I'd suggest trying not to copy others, and customise your suits to something that will look cool to you. That will result it much better looking models in my opinion ;)

Last thing I'll say is the posing of your Missile Suits seems a little off. Try imagine a person equipped with similar gear, and how they would move.(like the second link above)

All that is just my 2cents on the matter.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 03, 2014, 04:13:28 PM
I didn't copy that tutorial so much as borrow ideas. I've been doing the leg and arm modifications for a while, I just wanted the Torso/offset Jetpacks as well to make this guy stand out on the table. The leg/arm modifications really help posing and make them feel less rigid.

The Missile Suits are posed to be leaping back, though the angle of the shot probably doesn't show that too well. The outstretched Flamer arms are to show them retreating from an oncoming enemy force while flaming them.

I'll post better pics when they're painted.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 05, 2014, 11:03:50 PM
Taronian Veteran Gue'vesa:

These troops are drafted from elite Gue'vesa regiments on T'ros, which has evolved almost into a fully-fledged Sept since the Imperial attempt to reclaim the planet. At the behest of Shas'O R'myr, the Gu'vesa that served during that time have steadily had their equipment and training expanded to reach the level of excellence expected of a Tau Shas'la. This has allowed T'ros to stay mostly under Gue'la population and protection, but with strong economic and political ties to the Empire. Manufacturing facilities on T'ros are available for Pulse weaponry, ammo and armour, as well as other small items that aid planetary defence.

Due to its standing as a semi-independent member state of the Tau Empire, the Taronian Gue'vesa are often sought after by Water Caste envoys visiting other Gue'la worlds. Their reputation and status as a people who have benefited greatly from Tau aid makes them a useful example of the power and riches that can come to Planetary Governors also contemplating joining the Empire. Rumours even whispering that the Gue'vesa'vre who oversees the Taronian regiments has been given the honour of donning the Hero's Mantle, and has been seen bearing a Crisis Suit into battle during some campaigns. Many deride this as fantasy, but many more Gue'vesa believe it as a sign that the Tau will deliver on their promises in ways the Imperium never did.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140105_22_32_30_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140105_22_32_30_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140105_22_32_14_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140105_22_32_14_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140105_22_32_04_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140105_22_32_04_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 09, 2014, 12:03:48 AM
Shas'O Vorcah:

Finally got Big Guy painted to a 'tabletop ready' standard. From here it's washes and highlights to tweak the appearance, plus a little smoothing. Personally I'm very chuffed with how he looks right now, excited to have him on the tabletop leading my army soon!

Found a tutorial by Tael on ATT from '07 on painting Lenses. Nice and simple, haven't quite got the shades right though, IMO.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_15_24_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_15_24_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_15_56_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_15_56_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_16_26_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_16_26_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 16, 2014, 09:39:18 AM
Oh my, I've rendered you all speechless with this thread!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on January 16, 2014, 09:46:18 AM
Whats to say? Your Shas'O looks pretty damn cool.

Also, i thought I had said something :P
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Thantos on January 16, 2014, 01:11:48 PM
Looking good, could use some black lining in the recesses between the armour plates if you get times for it. :D

Noticed your fire warriors are all male though! Could use some female ones in there maybe? ;)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Dra'Tuisisch-Novae on January 16, 2014, 01:52:34 PM
Definitely digging the Shas'O; good use of posing, and ditto what Thantos said about darker contrast fit-lines to really make it pop.

I like the fusion-plasma suit pose as well, but I'm curious about the Fusion Blaster pointed somewhat downward; like he's trying to melt someone standing about ten feet away?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Masked Thespian on January 16, 2014, 02:23:34 PM
Quote from: CoffeeGrunt on January 16, 2014, 09:39:18 AM
Oh my, I've rendered you all speechless with this thread!

Hey there, CoffeeGrunt.  It's nice to see a new face around here.  Though, I suppose you could say the same thing about me, seeing as I've been AWOL for around eight-to-ten months.

I'm just going to point out that usually self-bumping your posts is frowned upon at Second Sphere.  Especially in the Project Logs area when you're doing it just to try and get people to comment.  Right now we don't have all many people coming to the site so traffic in all areas is going to be a bit low, but that doesn't really justify a bump.

If you'd posted a new part of your admittedly awesome looking Tau then there would be no problems at all.  Unfortunately, that's the way of Project Logs sometimes; sometimes people don't respond.  You're not in any trouble or anything; I'm just asking that you try not to self-bump your threads in the future, please.

Keep up the good work; that's some nice looking Tau you've got there   ;)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 24, 2014, 03:19:34 PM
@Thantos

I don't know of any femme Guard kits, though. Not any that are available in plastic. Have to admit, it'd be great for diversity! I've been practicing panel line work on the Shas'O, I'll post results when he's complete!

QuoteI like the fusion-plasma suit pose as well, but I'm curious about the Fusion Blaster pointed somewhat downward; like he's trying to melt someone standing about ten feet away?

Not sure which suit you're referring to, the one made to mimic Farsight? If so, his Fusion Blasters are projecting a blade, and he's charging in shield-first.

@Thespian

Sorry for the bump, just was looking for some feedback as I never got any on ATT either. Was worried I'd painted up some atrocities!

Anyway, some more Pathfinders graduate the Academy! They still need a little detail, highlighting and lens magic. I've tried to do better with my washes and paint in panel lines in order to define details a lot more. Lenses still elude me, though, one to practice!

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140121_22_57_01_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140121_22_57_01_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140121_22_58_38_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140121_22_58_38_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Thantos on January 24, 2014, 03:26:44 PM
Looking good ;D Like the basework on the leader!

If you are after diversity, you can get some female heads, bodies n arms suitable for them here ;) (If you'll excuse the self promotion)
http://www.zealotminiatures.co.uk/shop.php#!/~/product/category=6272033&id=26884500 (http://www.zealotminiatures.co.uk/shop.php#!/~/product/category=6272033&id=26884500)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Masked Thespian on January 24, 2014, 04:34:28 PM
Quote from: CoffeeGrunt on January 24, 2014, 03:19:34 PM
@Thespian

Sorry for the bump, just was looking for some feedback as I never got any on ATT either. Was worried I'd painted up some atrocities!

It's cool.  I completely understand; a total lack of responses makes your mind worry about every single thing that you could have done wrong, even though people might have a million reasons why they didn't comment that have absolutely nothing to do with the quality of your work.




The Pathfinders look quite nice.  I'll echo Thantos's like of the leader's base; did you have any ideas what you were going to do for the bases of the rest of the squad?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 25, 2014, 08:57:37 PM
Currently I use sand, and paint it a sort of poisoned black, to show it like a polluted Forge World.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on January 30, 2014, 10:57:45 AM
I've been holding back on painting my Riptide for the last six/seven months since I bought him, as I never felt I could do it justice. After working on Vorcah, I figured I'd improved enough to start slowly painting him up.

Still very much a WIP as you can see, but I felt like sharing him as he's been a joy to paint! Can't wait to have him trooping the colours with my army!

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140130_00_04_05_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140130_00_04_05_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140130_00_05_01_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140130_00_05_01_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140130_00_04_15_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140130_00_04_15_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140130_00_04_28_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140130_00_04_28_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Osiris on January 31, 2014, 12:37:31 AM
The models and painting look great!

I am kind of curious how the armour would look if it was slightly glossy? Have you tried it before? If not, then no need, but I am rather curious as to how it would make the Tau armour look. haha
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on February 13, 2014, 01:58:49 PM
XV-104 Riptide

Finally finished painting and basing him. (Not too crazy about how the base turned out, sadly.) I am very proud of how he turned out, and he really seems a like more imposing now that the paint fleshes out his detail.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_12_16_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_12_16_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_12_30_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_12_30_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_12_04_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_12_04_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_11_52_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/VonTa%20Cadre/WP_20140212_22_11_52_Pro.jpg.html)

I would love any and all opinions and critiques on this.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: The Allfather on February 13, 2014, 02:16:13 PM
That is great! I love how subdued the colors are, with the little pops of metallic details. Definitely gives it a more industrial, "working class" feel, if you catch what I'm trying to say :P

My only real critique is there are a couple spots that you can see the line where pieces come together on the gun, and it could do with some shading, or just a light wash to bring out more details. Also, the base is kind of... bland. I'd give that crushed sentinel some more attention to make it stand out.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on March 09, 2014, 11:02:08 PM
Just a quick update for anyone still watching this thread. Managed to grab a bunch of second-hand models from someone at the LGS, including 3 Piranhas, 12 Kroot, and 3 Sniper Drones. All at a decent price, but while they were mostly well-painted, I felt I had to put my own bush to them.

I tried using "Dettol" at first, a powerful cleaner used for damn-near everything here, which was both messy and mostly ineffective. It's a potent cleaner, but it turned all the paint into a denatured black tar which was horrific to clean and gelled to the models pretty hard. I then tried out Acetone-free nail varnish remover - the Acetone-free is important! It literally strips stuff in a matter of an hour, only needing a fairly soft scrub with a paint brush to coax the undercoating off the models. Chaos Black spray seems to be left on, which may be handy or not, but it literally cleans them up like new.

So without further ado, I started on the Kroot for something a bit different to the usual Tau look I go for. (Regimented, utilitarian.) I wanted pale Kroot as I imagined their feasting on Guard to have had a paling effect on their kindred. The skin is a shade between Pallid Wych and Kislev Flesh, while spines and beaks are Screaming Skull, with swashes thrown over them. I'm aiming to make this paintjob quick and easy to mass-produce, as I just bought another 20 of them!

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140309_22_32_04_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140309_22_32_04_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140309_22_32_21_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140309_22_32_21_Pro.jpg.html)

Any tips greatly appreciated, as there's eight others who have just received their base coats! I have to say, I didn't love the Kroot design at first, but they've got really badass guns, and they've really performed well in some games of mine recently.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on March 09, 2014, 11:15:31 PM
Mr Muscle Glass Cleaner and an old toothbrush is what I used for de-painting models. I find Nail Varnish Remover also weakens the joints, especially in places like Space Marine Arm-torso joints. For the really small places, a Needle works well to kind of pick the squishy paint out.

Kroot look good, thought a bit flat. could be the pictures though.

Looking forward to see all them Kroot Piranhas and Sniper Drones ^_^
What weapon did the Piranhas come with?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on March 10, 2014, 12:48:41 AM
The piranhas came with Burst Cannons, which is workable. We hardly play WYSIWYG here, anyway. I haven't drybrushed or detailed these guys yet, so hopefully they'll pop more afterwards. They are meant to be a horde of sort, though!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on March 12, 2014, 02:16:29 PM
Having just finished watching Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, I'm tempted to make a Gunmen army where the occupants are powered by "Fighting Spirit." I'd throw some fluff on about experimental Psyker power supplies and make the Nova Charge simply the, "Who Do You Think We Are?!" test.

Maybe some day...but for now, more Kroot! I made these up a bit quick 'n' dirty, as they're cannon fodder, I save the nicer paint jobs for the Suits, (or at least, try to.) Still, I think they look "tabletop ready" enough, and I tried some drybrushing techniques on them that came out okay. They're also the first models I've base-coated in white, and the coats went on so much more smoothly that I'm probably going to do that as standard from now-on. Saves patchiness and over-coating.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140312_00_18_13_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140312_00_18_13_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140312_00_18_42_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140312_00_18_42_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on March 21, 2014, 10:45:54 PM
I've been painting my Riptide's brother lately, among other things. Work's progressing slowly but he should be done by the end of this weekend. He was bought from a friend, so no conversions and a pretty standard pose on him:

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140317_08_25_34_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140317_08_25_34_Pro.jpg.html)

In addition, I managed to finish my two Deathrain/Heatwave Crisis Suits. I use them as whatever's required and give my opponents a heads-up beforehand. Taking them as pure Deathrain left their arms a bit too empty, hence the erroneous Flamer and Shield!
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140320_23_15_36_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140320_23_15_36_Pro.jpg.html)

Finally, I also finished my MV-62 Kor'vesa'ui Drone, counts-as for a Raven Shas'vre suit:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140320_23_16_42_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140320_23_16_42_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140320_23_17_08_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140320_23_17_08_Pro.jpg.html)

This is the first time I've managed Lenses I feel actually look believable, very chuffed! Followed an old tutorial by Tael, with Mephiston Red as a base, a light ring of Nuln Oil around the outside, then a crescent of Evil Sunz followed by a dot of Ceramite White. Eager to get this guy into the fight, as I feel he suits the role of a floating supercomputer tied to a sensor array better than a Crisis Suit would. I mean, how dull would it be for the Shas'vre pilot? I hope he packed a Gameboy at least.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on March 21, 2014, 10:50:11 PM
The posing seems a little off. I guess its the fact he's leaning back and looking off, but that wouldn't be a problem if at least one weapon system followed his view.

Paintwork is fantastic dude ;) Would really like to see this on the opposite side of the board (for me to blow away with my own army) :P
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on March 21, 2014, 11:17:12 PM
The Crisis Suit on the left? Yeah, but I can't repose him now without a lot of trouble. :/
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on March 21, 2014, 11:19:34 PM
Quote from: CoffeeGrunt on March 21, 2014, 11:17:12 PM
The Crisis Suit on the left? Yeah, but I can't repose him now without a lot of trouble. :/
I was talking about the Second Riptide ^_^;;

The Leaping back XV8 works as his head is straight forward, so could easily be jumping back to avoid an enemy strike whilst locking on for a missile salvo.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on March 21, 2014, 11:48:28 PM
Ah, the Riptide on the right? He was bought from a friend, so I had no say in how he was posed or built. He's out of the question, wouldn't wanna try cutting and reposing him. D:
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: salamut2202 on March 22, 2014, 04:30:15 AM
Hoe did I only find this now? Awesome job.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on April 06, 2014, 11:54:10 PM
I'm flattered, thanks! :)

The Shas have finally received their shipment of XV-91 Trauma battlesuits. I definitely recommend these babies from Heavy Support.com. They're a bit taller, slimmer and generally need a wider base than our beloved XV8s. However, they lack the serious mould line problems with the Jetpack assembly that I personally find annoying on the XV8s. The design is fully posable at the knees and elbows, though the lower legs feel a bit thin and the hooves are a pain to get out of the resin block. There were a few flaws but nothing serious, I've used Blu-Tac to hold the weapons in place for the moment until I work out a safe, clean way to magnetise them.

The Plasma Rifles and Flamers are both much beefier and scarier than the Crisis Suit variants. The Burst Cannons have a more enclosed design that I personally prefer, with the Fusion Blasters being fairly familiar and the Missile Pods also. The nice touch is the Missile Pods having a grid of ten smaller missiles, which makes more sense IMO. The weapons are built into the forearm, which is something I've always wanted from Crisis Suits.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140407_00_33_29_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140407_00_33_29_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140407_00_33_49_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140407_00_33_49_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140407_00_34_00_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140407_00_34_00_Pro.jpg.html)

These guys have prompted me to try the XV9 rules, (with Fusion Cascades, which still kinda sucked.) I think a 10pts drop in the XV9 rules, with the alternate weapons being free to switch to - given that they're all roughly comparable - is all they need, but that's unlikely to happen.

Also I've started a small force of Blud Rehvens. There are just days when you don't wanna build cool Battlesuits or paint them, y'know? Crazy, but it happens. Space Marines are really nice to assemble, though, and the painting of them is also pretty nice. (So many smooth, curved surfaces with no awkward gaps to work brushed into!)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140330_22_47_37_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140330_22_47_37_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140330_22_47_27_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140330_22_47_27_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: salamut2202 on April 09, 2014, 07:07:13 AM
Those alternative suits are superb.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on April 09, 2014, 08:53:18 AM
WhenI last checked, HS is only selling the Mortian Tank. Shame, becuase I liked the look of the Suits as well.

How does the size compare to a regular crisis suit?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on April 09, 2014, 09:27:35 AM
They're about 2cm taller, and a bit wider. The longer legs coupled with said legs being posable means they spread their pose out on the base a bit more, and need a 60mm base to fit comfortably.

They're available again now, though. Right here:
http://gwfwmort.bplaced.net/web1/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&category_id=3&product_id=3&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=2&lang=en&vmcchk=1&Itemid=2 (http://gwfwmort.bplaced.net/web1/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=flypage.tpl&category_id=3&product_id=3&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=2&lang=en&vmcchk=1&Itemid=2)

Weapon options are sold separately for a pittance.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on April 09, 2014, 09:40:29 AM
Hmm, thats a different site to the one I checked: http://www.heavy-support.com/

Awesome to know they're still available :)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on April 18, 2014, 11:37:27 PM
Took a small break from Tau to get a small Allied force of Blood Ravens painted. It could be fun to play them alongside the Tau, representing engagements on Kronus where the two sides may have had to unite against a common foe:

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140418_23_02_45_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140418_23_02_45_Pro.jpg.html)

Also managed to get some painting down on my "XV-91 Trauma" battlesuits from Heavy Support. These are lovely models to paint, and I'm plannig on picking out the details a bit more thoroughly later:

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140410_00_16_30_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140410_00_16_30_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140410_00_16_07_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140410_00_16_07_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on May 05, 2014, 09:59:24 PM
Welp, might as well put these up here:

Finished a Gue'vesa Leman Russ to go with my counts-as Fire Warriors. Really liking the Executioner and have always wanted to build a Leman Russ.

Just need to do highlight work and wearing on the main chassis, then it's onto the sponson and hull weaponry!

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140505_22_04_57_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140505_22_04_57_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140505_22_05_13_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140505_22_05_13_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on May 05, 2014, 10:49:22 PM
Looking good dude ^_^
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on May 25, 2014, 11:41:45 PM
Thanks! I've finished off the Russ but sadly forgot to get a decent up-close pic of it. It's in the background of this one, though, I'll get a new pic along with some pics of my Chimera and Tempestus Scions, too.

For now, the beginnings of my rank-and-file Gue'vesa'saal. Basically the equivalents of the standard Guardsmen, but now fighting for the Tau Empire.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140523_15_35_43_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140523_15_35_43_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on May 26, 2014, 07:23:06 AM
Saal means recruit, roughly. I don't think the Tau let the sholdiers onto the battlefield until they've reach the rank of Warrior, which is "La."

Looking forward to seeing more up close pictures of the LRBT ;) and the Sergeant and Coms dude for the Gue'vesa squad.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on May 26, 2014, 09:18:40 AM
Gue'vesa'la are likely to be on the same level equipmeroles and lignt-wise as a Fire Warrior, which is a fairly vaunted status. IMO, they'd have to prove themselves first, hence the period fighting as Gue'vesa'saal in Planetary Defense and light support.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on May 26, 2014, 09:26:25 AM
So in your mind the Gue'vesa'saal are the Infantry Platoon, while the Gue'vesa'la are the Veteran squads?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on May 26, 2014, 12:23:53 PM
Gue'vesa'saal are the line troopers, equivalent of Imperial Guardsmen. Vesa'la are counts-as Fire Warriors, Vesa'ui are Veterans/Scions, Vesa'vre are high-ranking Officers and Command Squad leaders. Vesa'O would be the overall Planetary Governor or the like.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on May 26, 2014, 05:12:42 PM
Have your plans changed with 7th? Or will you just ignore the new allies table when playing against friends?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on May 26, 2014, 06:34:00 PM
I'm going to see what comes up when I've finished the mandatory Troops and HQ I need. It may end up being a standalone army in its own right.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on May 26, 2014, 07:48:31 PM
First pic of my Tempestus Scions in-progress, taking the role of elite Gue'vesa'ui in the Taronian regiment. These guys are probably going to be used a lot like Crisis Suits. Dropping into high danger arenas to cut down important, tough targets with concentrate AP3 firepower.

I've started painting in sub-assemblies, and it's made them a lot easier to paint in smaller details, especially between the gun and chest. These new Scion models are pretty awesome, looking forward to using them on the field. The other guys should have their arms by then!

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140526_20_36_33_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140526_20_36_33_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140526_20_36_19_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140526_20_36_19_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on May 26, 2014, 08:11:03 PM
Looking good ^_^

So are you painting each piece on the sprue?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on May 26, 2014, 08:34:20 PM
I'm building them into body assemblies and arm assemblies, painting them, then gluing them together. I used to just build, base, then paint, which got awkward to reach some areas.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 06, 2014, 04:09:27 PM
As promised, pics of my Gue'vesa vehicles!

Chimera:

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-61.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-61.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-60.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-60.jpg.html)

And the Russ, who will likely stay in the Executioner setup:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-59.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-59.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-58.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-58.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on June 06, 2014, 04:56:37 PM
Excellent weathering on the vehicles :D Mine always end up looking fresh from the production line XD
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 06, 2014, 05:25:23 PM
I knew when I was planning this army that they would be a lot dirtier and weathered than my Tau. Glad you like the results!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 09, 2014, 08:35:16 AM
Got another Russ built and mostly painted. Still needs work on the finer details though, such as the Searchlight and a couple of touch-ups here and there. Mostly satisfied with it, though. This will be my Pask tank as he was pretty effective when I ran him on Saturday. I wanted it to be a weathered, old war machine. The Regiment's only Vanquisher with a raft of commendations.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140609_08_08_08_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140609_08_08_08_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140609_08_07_56_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140609_08_07_56_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140609_08_07_45_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140609_08_07_45_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Chris on June 09, 2014, 03:09:47 PM
Thems so nice looking minis! I like the Storm Troopers, you've done a nice effect on the eye lenses there! and the weathering on those tanks is exellent!
Great job!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 09, 2014, 06:55:35 PM
Thanks Chris! I've gotten some feedback elsewhere that should help me refine the weathering. Hoping it goes well!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Chris on June 09, 2014, 08:24:59 PM
Could I suggest though that you take a look at the spot light on the leman russ? Simply painting it yellow seems out of style with the rest of the army... It look flat and shoddy, especially on the tank...
Even a wash would add a bit of depth...
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 09, 2014, 08:32:47 PM
Oh the spotlight still needs to be done. I got a recommendation on Bolter and Chainsword to try a bluish-white on it, so I'm going to do-over it and give that a go.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 12, 2014, 09:23:17 AM
After building a Heavy Weapons Team of three Lacannons, I was a bit bummed out by the lack of spare bitz GW supply in Guard kits to build additional units. (Even Fire Warriors stock some extra legs and heads, so you're golden if you buy some torsos.) The answer to these wasted bitz was the Drone-Piloted AutoMortar. Developed in conjunction with Tarosian Engineers, the Earth Caste sought to build a weapon from parts familiar to the Gue'vesa serving in their ranks, but that could be easily and cheaply rearmed and deployed to operate autonomously. With simple parts easily able to be manufactured with Taros' limited production capabilities, the AutoMortar has seen much use in Tarosian regiments, and the Tarosian Engineer Corps are already in talks with the Tau Earth Caste to develop more weapons of this kind.

The AutoMortar uses common parts from the Autocannon much loved by human forces. The Ammo Hopper carries a drum magazine filled with small submunition missiles designed to fragment upon impact and shred lightly armoured foes. The Drone Intelligence that guides this weapon is designed to scan enemy comms to note concentrations of tightly-packed Infantry, before networking with other such Intelligences to unleash a relentless downpour of shrapnel onto the enemy. The Ammo capacity combined with the carefully managed rate of fire and shot placement allows a small team of such Drones to suppress an enemy under fire for days until reinforcements arrive. This has aided in many sieges, both offensive and defensive, removing potential fatigue from operators and allowing personnel to fight at the front where they're needed.

The Drones are also capable of using their Repulsor Jump Jets, allowing them to relocate and reposition if needed, making them a suitably flexible aid to any battle.

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140611_22_40_53_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140611_22_40_53_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140611_22_41_07_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140611_22_41_07_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on June 12, 2014, 09:34:25 AM
That looks pretty damn cool :D You able to make a full Heavy Weapons Squad?

The Multi-tracker unfortunately looks too bolted on. Perhaps using the end of a pulse Rifle/Carbine to give it a smaller appearence?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 12, 2014, 09:37:26 AM
Hmmm, I can dig around and see what I have. I have enough parts to confomrtably make three of these, which I'm quite chuffed with.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on June 12, 2014, 09:39:04 AM
I'm not 100% if I explained my idea right, so if you'd like I can whip up a example picture?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 12, 2014, 09:40:26 AM
Yeah, it would be handy. To be fair, it's meant to look a little bit bolted together, really.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on June 12, 2014, 09:48:03 AM
Parts are not to scale :P

Spoiler
(http://th03.deviantart.net/fs70/PRE/f/2014/163/a/9/tau_mortar_by_narric_sb0-d7m1ev3.png)

Its just my opinion on how I would have done it ;)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 12, 2014, 10:00:50 AM
I dunno, it's a bit too recognisable as a Pulse Rifle barrel, and wouldn't really add a function. (It doesn't have any aiming or guidance sensors on it.)

I may fix a Markerlight there instead, as a small aiming device, but for a Barrage weapon a unidirectional aiming device doesn't make much sense. :/
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 15, 2014, 09:30:51 PM
 I've just finished a bunch of Special Weapons to scatter amongst my units. There's an element of proxying going on right now, as I've only got one of each weapon stolen from the Command Squad sprues and attached to some armless Cadians I EBay'd. One each of a Melta, Plasma, Sniper, Flamer, 'Nade Launcher and Heavy Flamer!

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-75.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-75.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-79.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-79.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-77.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-77.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-76.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-76.jpg.html)

Tried out some barrel scorching, plus a little more delicate touches to get these done quickly and cleanly. I think some highlight work is still on the agenda, but for now they're Tabletop Ready!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on June 15, 2014, 09:48:03 PM
The shoulder pads need a clean up :P

Nice work on the scorching.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 16, 2014, 12:11:27 PM
Yeah, I accidentally splashed one with the wash I was using. Figured it was best to get it uploaded before I went to sleep, and tidy it up once I start the final highlight work etc.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 18, 2014, 11:54:57 PM
Managed to get some time for my ol Blood Ravens. Stormtalons are probably my favourite model in the Space MArine range, and the only model I really think looks excellent in it. It's that twin-engine VTOL design, loved it in Halo's Falcon, the gunships in Avatar and the Aerial H-Ks in Terminator. The fact it trades out weedy propellers for beefy jet engines only makes it cooler! (Also it has the profile of a stumpy, fat pigeon, which is kinda cute.)

Just posting some pics of the basic colour scheme before I go to sleep. The black spaces on the engines will be coloured bone like the rest of the chassis. There's a few bits where I've slipped here and there, I normally tidy these as I go into the highlight phase and other fine tuning. The Techmarine pilot will also get some TLC when most of the rest of the craft is done.

Aiming to get this and my Librarian painted for a big game against a friend. He's going to field his entire Nid collection of 3.5K points, versus a desperate, temporary alliance of 2K Tau, 1K Guard, and 500pts Blood Ravens, lead by your's truly. SHould be fun, and lets me get an almost entirely painted force on the board between them!

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140619_00_12_04_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140619_00_12_04_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140619_00_12_33_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140619_00_12_33_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on June 19, 2014, 12:36:46 AM
So clean. Will you be weathering this vehicle as well?
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 19, 2014, 08:34:18 AM
Oh yeah. Haven't even finished the basic colours yet, though. Weathering will come when I do the highlighting and shading.
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on June 19, 2014, 10:57:58 PM
Leadership is difficult, and choosing a good leader even more so. They must be charismatic, with clear veteran status. They must command a presence and seem bold, brash and innovative. They must have a face that men can believe in, and follow unto their deaths.

This can only be accomplished by the Emperor-given gift that is, the moustache:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140619_22_54_45_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140619_22_54_45_Pro.jpg.html)

As soon as I saw that face on the Scion sprue, I knew my Company Commander had to have those magnificent whiskers. The original build had the Servo Skull extra from the Scions kit entwined around the staff he's holding in a suitably epic way, but said Servo Skull is incredibly fragile and thus kept snapping off. :(

Some highlight work still to be done, especially on that glorious 'stache, but I'm finished for tonight and thus he's being posted for critiques if anyone has 'em! :)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on July 04, 2014, 10:20:44 AM
Update on my painting progress. Still very much all about the Guard right now. Got myself one of dem fancy new Wyverns, which has been a fun project to paint. It's coming along quite nicely, and along with the Banewolf and two Russes I ordered online, I'm comfortably at about 1500pts or so for my army now. (And so much of it is tanks!)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140704_01_18_50_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140704_01_18_50_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140704_01_18_12_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140704_01_18_12_Pro.jpg.html)

Here's a picture from the other day of the army as an almost whole. Had a couple of 1250pt games against my friend's Wolves. First game was a bit of a slaughter as he'd ran a 750pt Wolf Guard Deathstar that sadly did not deal well with the Executioner, (proxied by a Vanquisher here.) The next game he took a more balanced list, and the game was much closer and a lot more fun. (That Banewolf on the right flank, unpainted in black, got Stunned two turns in a row then died as his Grey Hunters were running up, foiling my plan to melt them all under its Chem Cannon!)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140702_20_55_55_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140702_20_55_55_Pro.jpg.html)

Still won, but there wasn't a lot left on my side when I was done. Close games are the most fun games!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on July 04, 2014, 06:01:04 PM
How good is the Wyvern, in game? Anti-blog infantry if I remember correctly.
Am I the only one who thinks the little searchlight/spotter thing on the turret should move with the guns?

Excellent paintwork, as usual ;)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on July 04, 2014, 07:22:11 PM
It's able to stack up a fair few Wounds. Against 6+ Saves it's murder, against anything else it'll stack up enough to force a couple through. So cheap, too, only 5 dead Marines to make its points back, and using Barrage you can sniper Heavy Weapons with it.

The Gunshield moves with the guns. The whole thing's on a rotating platform, very fun to assemble and paint! :D
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on July 07, 2014, 11:25:29 PM
For example, I played it against Dark Eldar, and it killed 8 Incubi on its first volley, followed by several Kabailtes. It posed such a threat that he diverted his Ravager to kill it, but it only shot one of the guns off.

I also managed to get a little time Sunday and Monday to finish my Wyvern and get the Banewolf painted. I'll get pics of the Wyvern with the last few details up soon, for now the WIP Banewolf. Metallics are mostly done, just the main body needs a couple of coats before weathering, washing and highlighting are done:

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140708_00_01_38_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140708_00_01_38_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140708_00_02_20_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140708_00_02_20_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Narric on July 07, 2014, 11:37:37 PM
How good is that Wyvern against MEq or TEq?

the turret looks a bit off. I think its slanted slightly. :-\

Looking good so far anyway ;)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on July 08, 2014, 08:20:31 AM
Well, I often average around 20 Hits on a ten-man Squad. It kills a few per volley on Marines and the like, obviously Terminators aren't an ideal target, but will roll a 1 eventually if you're handy them 14-18 dice per volley. Best part is that it can Barrage snipe Special Weapons, which is a very potent ability.

The turret droops like that if you don't glue it in place, (which I tend to avoid so I can see how far things can tilt/turn.) It makes it look like a very sad Banewolf! :P
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on July 16, 2014, 06:34:14 AM
Here's some more Banewolf goodness. She's pretty much finished, just needs a few, final touches before the Purity Seal goes on. Tried some slightly different weathering techniques on it, seemed to come out quite well:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-82.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-82.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-81.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-81.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-80.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-80.jpg.html)

I also got given a shelf at the LGS to display them on, which is already getting a bit cosy with all these tank hulls! Here's a shot of the painted forces of the Regiment on display. I'm planning on repainting the yellow lights to be blue, btw, as it seems to fit the warm, orange colour scheme a bit better:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/temporary-83.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/temporary-83.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on July 26, 2014, 10:59:27 PM
Further progress was made on another Russ - this one's a Demolisher - and eight more Guardsmen. The Guardsmen are finished, with a slightly lighter skin tone to provide some variety to my squads. The Demolisher is still waiting on more highlight, washing and weathering work, but is at least Tabletop Ready:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140726_18_26_18_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140726_18_26_18_Pro.jpg.html)

(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140726_22_28_02_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140726_22_28_02_Pro.jpg.html)

Was quite fun converting up the Demolisher from a second-hand model to seem like a slightly cobbled-together relic of the regiment. I'm going to try some pretty intense weathering on it, to make it look aged and well-worn.

The Guardsmen have a smattering of bits from the Command Squad and Heavy Weapons Teams sprues. Mixes them up quite nicely and gives them some needed variety on the table. Looking forward to getting a tonne more!
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on August 04, 2014, 09:07:35 AM
Been pretty busy these last couple of weeks. Here's the haul!

First up is a Valkyrie which ate up all of this month's budget for Toy Soldiers! This one will be fairly heavily weathered, and will transport the below squad for paradropping interventions on enemy armour. The Valk itself is tooled up for blasting hordes:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140803_21_10_23_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140803_21_10_23_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140803_21_10_11_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140803_21_10_11_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140803_21_09_55_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140803_21_09_55_Pro.jpg.html)

Made some Carapaace-armoured Veterans to ride in the Valkyrie. They've got 3 Meltas, Fire Warriors armour and the Demolitions doctrine for a tasty Meltabomb. Quite chuffed as this unit is fully WYSIWYG!
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140802_22_31_43_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140802_22_31_43_Pro.jpg.html)

Converted and painted a new Company Commander, who's a bit more fighty with a Power Sword - possibly even the Sword of Conquest - and a Plasma Pistol. (Also glorious moustache:)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140727_23_21_42_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140727_23_21_42_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140727_23_21_29_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140727_23_21_29_Pro.jpg.html)

Finished the Demolisher mentioned earlier. Gunna get some weathering powder to try some more advanced techniques, as I'm borrowing a friend's Forge World Modelling Masterclass books to learn a few tips and tricks:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140727_22_44_07_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140727_22_44_07_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140727_22_44_21_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140727_22_44_21_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: CoffeeGrunt on August 18, 2014, 01:07:23 PM
A bit more work done lately. Got a half-finished Ryza Vanquisher that needs a little weathering and lens work before I call her done. Did some Camo Netting work to make it stand out as a Commander's tank:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140817_17_57_08_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140817_17_57_08_Pro.jpg.html)

And a slightly out of date pic of the Valkyrie, (now finished!) Showing off some weathering work using the Weathering Powders I got from Forge World:
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140810_19_56_08_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140810_19_56_08_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140810_19_56_44_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140810_19_56_44_Pro.jpg.html)
(http://i148.photobucket.com/albums/s36/coffeegrunt/WP_20140810_19_56_28_Pro.jpg) (http://s148.photobucket.com/user/coffeegrunt/media/WP_20140810_19_56_28_Pro.jpg.html)
Title: Re: Von'Ta Cadre: Project Log
Post by: Chris on August 22, 2014, 04:53:22 PM
I really like the weathering... Its something I want to work on for my vehicles..
In a nutshell, how do you use them? is it just a case of painting them on over the paint?

There is something about the colours you use, when the cream and the orange meet, it just seems a little off to me... I mean, this is tiny tiny bit critique, and probably more to my personal preference.. Its hard to put a finger on what it is to be sure... its odd...

Great job! You've improved loads since the start of this blog!