Sculpting figures? (1 Viewer)

I

Iancurtis

Guest
Joined
Jan 6, 2009
Messages
7
I was wondering if anyone on here has ever tried sculpting any figures before? I am fascinated by sculpting, a skill that in my opinion is a complete work of art. I’d love to have a go at it myself (just thinking of the consequences is making me laugh) so if anyone can shed any light on the mysterious world of sculpting toy soldiers then it’d be very much appreciated. What materials do you use? What tools? And who is responsible for K&C’s sculpts? It seems almost impossible to imagine how mere mortals can achieve such realistic and detailed historical representations on such a small scale. Hats off to the world’s sculptures!
 
I refer this question to fellow frogger Ken Osen, one of the great toy soldier sculptors alive today.:cool:
 
Iancurtis said:
I was wondering if anyone on here has ever tried sculpting any figures before? I am fascinated by sculpting, a skill that in my opinion is a complete work of art. I’d love to have a go at it myself (just thinking of the consequences is making me laugh) so if anyone can shed any light on the mysterious world of sculpting toy soldiers then it’d be very much appreciated. What materials do you use? What tools? And who is responsible for K&C’s sculpts? It seems almost impossible to imagine how mere mortals can achieve such realistic and detailed historical representations on such a small scale. Hats off to the world’s sculptures!
Click to expand...

If you want to have a go yourself at sculpting it is best to start off with simple conversions. Start by changing heads on figures, when comfortable with that move on to changing arm positions. Taking it a stage further change leg positions. When comfortable with the anatomy start redressing the figure using whichever medium suits you best ie solder, plastic, putty or whatever. The trick here is to dress the figure as you would dress yourself so that each layer overhangs the previous in a natural way, and to finish each section before progressing to the next. That means shaping the tunic, for example, filing and smoothing, putting in creases and folds, adding lace and buttons and only then going on to add belts and equipment. Leave the arms till last so that you have the most unobstructed access to the body. Finally add the weapons. Always keep the first figure you do, this will give you an instant comparison to show your improving skills from figure to figure. And don't be put off, keep at it. This skill is only aquired by experience, something you can't buy at the Model Shop. After a few conversions try a scratch build. Here you will find it easiest to construct a basic dolly figure to your chosen size and make a mould of it so that you can run off castings to work on, thus making sure of consistancy from figure to figure. Have a go, and good luck.
 
Hi Ian,

I second Trooper that it is quite simple if you take it in stages. Why not buy a box of Airfix multipose figures and assemble it yourself? Assembly is quite easy and pretty soon, you'll be converting and eventually sculpting your own figures. The cost is cheap and the learning process extremely enjoyable.

Rgds Victor
 
I took the plunge myself, Ian, after thinking about it for a long, long time (years). I've started with a simple figure, using a wire armature, and for the modeling medium, I'm using Sculpey. I'm not ready to post pics yet, though, because I'm recording it as an SBS to post here, but I will say, try it.

My goal is to work up to producing a figure from start to finish-sculpt the master, make the mold and cast it in white metal.

Try it, it's actually very satisfying, and not as bad as I imagined it would, when I was hesitating for so long to start.

Prost!
Brad
 
Iancurtis said:
I was wondering if anyone on here has ever tried sculpting any figures before? I am fascinated by sculpting, a skill that in my opinion is a complete work of art. I’d love to have a go at it myself (just thinking of the consequences is making me laugh) so if anyone can shed any light on the mysterious world of sculpting toy soldiers then it’d be very much appreciated. What materials do you use? What tools? And who is responsible for K&C’s sculpts? It seems almost impossible to imagine how mere mortals can achieve such realistic and detailed historical representations on such a small scale. Hats off to the world’s sculptures!
Click to expand...

I do the odd figures using fimo.......I have no idea on how to work this site as I have just joined this message properly wont get through but if it does I can give you a few clues on making your own figures...TomB
 
Welcome Tom. I hope you get some of your stuff posted on here for others to see. I've been lucky to see a lot of your stuff, and I know many here would love it.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Users who are viewing this thread

Total: 2 (members: 0, guests: 2)
Community platform by XenForo® © 2010-2024 XenForo Ltd.
Back
Top