Thank you.
Stencils seem like a really promising idea but this was my third failed experiment with a home made camouflage stencil on a busy surface. It is also difficult to position a model, a stencil, and an airbrush at the same time. I may purchase some metal camouflage stencils and try again.
I put together the Kugelblitz turret earlier today and all my tweaks actually worked. That was a pleasant surprise. I may pull out the Blu-Tac and make another go at some camouflage.
Takom Flakpanzer 38 Kugelblitz
Accept for clear coats, all the airbrush work on this project is d o n e. That is always a very happy moment for me.
I usually name my conjectural vehicles and need to come up with something for this one. Come to think of it, I should also order some small letter decals.
Edit: Astrapê and Brontê are the Greek Goddesses of Lightning and Thunder. Since I will probably build a Panzer IV based Kugelblitz in the future, I just need to decide which vehicle gets what name.
Takom Flakpanzer 38 Kugelblitz
Have you ever put decals on a model and felt rather disappointed with the result? That is how I feel right now. My spare decal supply is not very extensive. I wanted to use red (or blue) on white numbers but did not have any of the correct size. “Valda” is not my favorite name, nor my favorite font, but unlike many other names considered, I had the necessary decals. The arrangement on the back of the turret, with the number in the middle and small crosses to the sides, is not very pleasing. I do like the kill marks and side crosses.
The number decals also look a bit wonky. Initially, I thought this was my fault but high resolution pictures reveal it is the result of a very subtle printing issue.
It feels like poor craftsmanship to constantly rely on effects painting to cover up mistakes but I accept it is part of the learning process.
This will turn out “okay” but I long for “very good”.
I see what you mean about the name and numbers, Doug.
However, I think it looks very nice and I am sure it will be “very good” once it is done. Remember numbers and names were often field applied as well, so details and accuracy might vary in real life.
Takom Flakpanzer 38 Kugelblitz
Things got away for me for a few days but all the detail painting on this model, minus the tail light, is now done. I used a new tool for this step that really helped.
Takom Flakpanzer 38 Kugelblitz
Almost all oil paint work on the running gear is done. I really need to figure out a better and faster way to do this. My technique needs to evolve.
