"mikoyan99's 2014 Model Contest Entry"

[mikoyan99]

Seeing as i'm currently project-less, I thought i'd get involved with the 2014 model contest for a bit of a challenge.

I'm intending to scratch build/kitbash a Star Wars "Empire" era version of the Crescent X-9, better known as the Nebulon Ranger. I like the general configuration, but i'd like to add my own flair, and paint it up in a fashion similair to the vessels seen in episodes 4, 5 and 6.



I'm a full time engineering student, which means I have about zero budget, so i'm primarily intending to use scrap from my bits box for this. I don't know exactly which parts i'll be using, but the B-Wing cockpit and X-Wing fragments will be making an appearance at least, as will some parts of that German fighter. Other materials will be plasticard, paper and epoxy. I have some RTV Silicone around as well, which i'll probably use to cast up engines, lasers etc. I may also add light if the model ends up large enough.

I do have a fair few years behind me as a modelmaker, but most of my scratch builds are ships and airships, built from wood, cloth, paper etc. I haven't worked purely in plastic for a while (beyond airfix type kits), so this could be interesting. I've been looking into doing a model spaceship for some time, so now is a good oppurtunity.

Starting pics:

(Sorry if parts a bit vague, don't know exactly what i'm going to use except the B-wing cockpit)

Will start building this evening; i'll try and do regular updates.
-Matt

 

[mikoyan99]

Some progress:

Main fuselgae 80% complete, needs filling next. Main engine reasonably complete, needs more greeblies. Need to start on the wing next. As you can see, it's a very small model - about 4-5" long currently.
-Matt

 

[mikoyan99]

Primer:

Wing needs a bit more filling, otherwise getting there.
-Matt

 

[mikoyan99]

Good progress today (rainy day); final putty smoothed on, needs a little sanding but otherwise ready for painting:

-Matt

 

[mikoyan99]

And finished:

(photographed in natural light)

Painting was achived by hand and with an airbrush - the model was basecoated in tamiya dark sea grey, before being given a heavy black wash for pre-shading. It was the highlighted with a mox of sky grey and deck tan. The model was then sealed with a PVA/alcohol varnish, before being given another heavy black wash. This was allowed to dry, before the excess black acrylic was sppnged off the raised surfaces. Finally, scorch marks were added in NATO black using the airbrush.

All in all, i'm happy with this build. Every part used, including paint and other consumables, was from my spare parts box and paint stock - no new components were purchased for the build at any point.
let me know what you think,
-Matt

 

[Michael Bergeron]

Great job! Good luck!