new guy

[j-smuv]

Hi everyone,

I'm new to the forum and new to the hobby. I have been absolutely blown away by what I've seen of the painting in the contests hosted here. I joined in the hope of leeching as much knowledge as possible from everyone by being a more silent, than active, participant; at least until I get my footing. I have looked online for tips for beginners, but most methods and tips seem to be of the more advanced variety. That being said, I have learned a lot both from this forum and others. Applying the techniques I have seen turns out to be a lot different than witnessing them. I am eager to use these techniques effectively, however, and even more eager for the eventual absorbtion of them into my own style (if I even have a style yet). But I welcome any links, help, advice or personal anecdotes that can help better develop my meager skills to the point where these more advanced methods can be applicable.

So this is me. . . begging.

James

[Nathan Caroland]

Hey James, welcome to Wyrd!

There is quite a number of talented individuals here from novice to master with all sorts of styles so I'm sure something will come across that catches your attention. One of the fun things for me has been to watch some of the folks that have been posting in the contests for the last year or two and seeing their entries progress with their painting-fu, particularly this last batch that is putting in their stuff now.

Lets see some of what you have painted if you have a mind to - ask some questions, tell us what you like - only some of the ladies bite and Malebolgia up there in the shoutbox right now looks like he might have to get a shot from what they have been doing up in that thing, but otherwise, some good folks here.

:D

Few things that annoyed the hell out of me but worked for me right from the beginning when I started painting.

- Clean your miniatures well, with hot soapy water.
- Deflash and mold line them and you might have to do it again after priming when some show up you didn't see.
- Priming varies from person to person, some spray, some brush, others use white or black or grey or do the zenithial prime (black and then from above hit it with white to see where your highlights will be).
- Thin your paint, can't emphasis that more. Now it kills me when people say 'thin it to the consistency of milk'. I still don't know what the hell that is, but just thin it without going too far and making it grainy. Several thin layers is better than one thick layer.
- There is much more, but just enjoy it. I got into the whole 'I have to advance' bit with my painting, and got to absolutely hate it for the longest time. Just paint for yourself and enjoy it, not for scores or the like.

I would say use the article section here as well, small as it is. Maybe someone will get the hint here and actually post some articles in there. Free stuff people .. hello .. anyone out there?

Anyhow, welcome!

[Duende]

only some of the ladies bite ...


Really? I thought it was all of us! :evil:


But anyways.. :welcome: to Wyrd!

Don't believe anything FF says! Or Malebolgia!.... or Callumrice... or..

Actually Supervike is the ultimate source of all knowledge around here. Believe everything he says without question. Good job.

:D

[Wren]

One of the sites I found most helpful when starting out was a big guide posted over at Ellsweb - http://www.ellsweb.com/faq/showfaq.asp?fldAuto=5. He covers a lot of different subjects in clear language with nice pictures, breaking things up into digestible chapters. I don't agree with everything he says - for example, I tried the white taklon brushes he favours and I far and away prefer the Kolinksy sable that most people recommend - but that's detail stuff, the bulk of the info is solid and clear.

[Vytis]

I would say use the article section here as well, small as it is. Maybe someone will get the hint here and actually post some articles in there. Free stuff people .. hello .. anyone out there?

I do have some intentions of writing a few articles..free stuff is the syrup on the chocolate..

Now then, welcome to the strange place known as Wyrd. Any place that has Matty1001, malebolgia, and Duende shouting at each other (What WAS THAT with the shout box today, people?) can only be fun.

:dancing2:

[matty1001]

I would say use the article section here as well, small as it is. Maybe someone will get the hint here and actually post some articles in there. Free stuff people .. hello .. anyone out there?

I have one in progress, should be a couple of weeks before its up.

And yes, hey James!

[wiccanpony]

Welcome James

yes I "bite"....but I've had all my shots :)

[Stupidcow]

Welcome to the friendly neighbourhood. Its best if you could get some pics of your most recent works up so that the folks can better guide you along, if there's even a need to.

You better believe that the ladies here are not to be messed with. I'm officially the Iron Ladies punching bag. :damnmate:

[EldinTux]

Welcome James. They're not a daunting as they sound, & you normally get useful constructive advice.

[cdukino]

No we are not daunting at all (sectretly punches Stupidcow)... We are rather nice us ladies... What's that behind my back?... oh nothing (sound of rateling of chains).

Seriously. Welcome to the forum James. Be sure to show off some of your work and ask away.

Cheers,
Cindy

[gi6ers]

Best way to advance is:

a) Enjoy painting!!!
b) Post something and ask for brutal feedback.
c) Ignore your CMON scores
d) Enter a Wyrd contest - some of the best feedback out there IMO.
e) Learn the basics - removing mould lines, smooth basecoats and tidiness will always give a good result.

Looking forward to seeing your stuff, get painting!

[callumrice]

All of the above!

Hope you stick around and become an active member. These are a fun crowd these guys.

All the best.

Callum

[j-smuv]

Whoa, lots of responses. Thanks for the feedback, encouragement, and advice. I'll post my next project upon completion and look forward to the constructive criticism.

Thanks,

James