Mermaid Lotus's Tailmaking Adventure!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Hi, everyone! I'm so nervecited about starting this journey. I'm following in my favorite tailmaker, PearlieMae's wake and using the individual scale method to make my first tail! I'll be coming up with unique scale molds so as not to be a copycat... fish.

Anyway, we're still hammering out my mersister's design and in the meantime, I'm going to try to start scale molds! All the while, chronicling the journey here in this thread! I hope it blesses all of my merfamily to watch this tail come to life!

As this will be my first tail, please, PLEASE feel free to give as much constructive criticism as you possibly can! Thank youuu! :D

[Rebekah.fish]

Good luck!

[Mermaid Lunette]

Wooo! Exciting!!!!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Good luck! Wish you all the best!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Good luck!
Thank you so much!!! :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Wooo! Exciting!!!!
It really is!!! You'll get to see the process up close! Haha <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Good luck! Wish you all the best!
Thank you so much!! I really appreciate the support!! :D

[Mermaid Lunette]

It really is!!! You'll get to see the process up close! Haha <3

Yuuuuuuuuuuuuh!!!!!!

Gonna be super cool :D

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Will be amazing I am sure :) and welcome

[Atlantisblue]

Can't wait to see your progress :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Will be amazing I am sure :) and welcome
I sure hope so!!! <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Can't wait to see your progress :)
Thank you!! I'm ordering the clay tonight if possible, and the resin. I can't wait to make my first molds!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I just ordered the clay and resin! I only got one of each for now because I'm just doing testing before I order a bunch (crafting and modeling supplies are pricey), but I'm so excited!!! :)

(The total was $56.15 for this order).

[Mermaid Lunette]

Cool! Any idea when it will be delievered?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Cool! Any idea when it will be delievered?
It says that most orders ship within 2 business days. <3

[Mermaid Lunette]

Oh awesome, then you can probably start your magical experiments before this next week is out!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Oh awesome, then you can probably start your magical experiments before this next week is out!
I sure hope so!!! :D

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Nice one grats on getting the clay I would be interested in trying this myself one day :) Will definately be following this thread and your journey as I so would love to be able to add silicone items into my store one day :) But have no idea about doing any of that stuff lol :P

[Merman Arion]

This thread is exciting. I look forward to see progress pictures :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Nice one grats on getting the clay I would be interested in trying this myself one day :) Will definately be following this thread and your journey as I so would love to be able to add silicone items into my store one day :) But have no idea about doing any of that stuff lol :P


Thank you!! I hope it proves to be a good guide for tailmaking! I'm personally studying Pearlie's tail journey 'cause she's the best individual scale tailmaker I've ever seen. I recommend that you also look through her thread! It's a bit long because it was a two year journey, but it's extremely helpful! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

This thread is exciting. I look forward to see progress pictures :)
Thank you so much, Arion!!! I can't wait to post my first picture update! :D

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Thanks will do as it would be amazing to be able to work with silicone down the track for tops and possibly tails :)

[Mermaid Nerida]

EEEP!! I'm very excited to see how this goes!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

EEEP!! I'm very excited to see how this goes!

Thank you!!! I'm seriously excited, too! I can't wait for my supplies to get here so I can start!! <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks will do as it would be amazing to be able to work with silicone down the track for tops and possibly tails :)

Yes! I bet once you work with silicone and molds, you'll be able to expand your inventory and do lots of other stuff, as well! I'm planning on making latex elf ears and other fantasy themed items to help our fellow faefolk realize their dreams! I hope that helps!! :)

[PearlieMae]

Good luck! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Good luck! :)

Thank you, Pearlie!!! :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I'm so excited to show some of my newest scale designs! My husband inspired a few of them, as well! He's so helpful! He also inspired the idea of making little silicone tail attachments for those who are interested. Not sure if they'll catch on, but it's an idea! Anyway, here they are! :D

27286

27287

[Mermaid Lunette]

I'm so excited to show some of my newest scale designs! My husband inspired a few of them, as well! He's so helpful! He also inspired the idea of making little silicone tail attachments for those who are interested. Not sure if they'll catch on, but it's an idea! Anyway, here they are! :D

27286

27287

Those all lok really cool :D I like the leafy teardrop the best ^^ and the idea of add ons is very cool :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Those all lok really cool :D I like the leafy teardrop the best ^^ and the idea of add ons is very cool :)


Thank you!! That one's my favorite, too! Haha I hope they catch on partly because I really want to make little silicone octopus buddies. <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I couldn't wait!! I just got a set of 32 Pearl Ex pigments!! Now, to get the silicone!

(The total was $41.26 for this order)!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Done with purchases for a while! My sweet, supportive mom offered to sponsor me to make it a little easier on this mermaid's purse.

Looking forward to updating you next with action shots!!!

(It was $208.53 for the Dragonskin 10 SLOW silicone and $154.55 for the rest of the resin and clay).

[Mermaid Lunette]

27292

27293

Done with purchases for a while! My sweet, supportive mom offered to sponsor me to make it a little easier on this mermaid's purse.

Looking forward to updating you next with action shots!!!

Wooo! Yea! And the process shall begin soon! Very exciting :) (hee hee, looks like I managed to subconsiously photobomb your update pic. Cx

[Mermaid Lunette]

I hope everything gets to you safely and soon ^_^

[PearlieMae]

I know you are not showing all your personal info, but posting pix of your receipts may not be a good idea.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Wooo! Yea! And the process shall begin soon! Very exciting :) (hee hee, looks like I managed to subconsiously photobomb your update pic. Cx

Haha You did! Just made it prettier. :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I know you are not showing all your personal info, but posting pix of your receipts may not be a good idea.

Oh, I was just posting to help me keep track and for future tailmakers. If you think it's a bad idea, I'll probably end up saving them and removing the pics from here, though. I trust your judgment!

[Mermaid Lunette]

Haha You did! Just made it prettier. :)

Awww ~ // ^ . ^ // ~

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you, Pearlie, for the advice!! I removed the images and just kept the order totals for my records and future tailmakers! I seriously appreciate you, sweet mersister! I'm a total newb and need all the help and advice I can get. You're awesome!! <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Omg, I have no idea how I'm gonna wait for these supplies. Hoping designing helps! :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

grats on the supplies can't wait to see what you do and I love the leaf design best too :) Will definitely be following this and one day when I can eventually do it myself will read up a lot more about the process but for now I am just happy following along :)

As Australia it is going to cost a fortune for silicone etc so either my etsy store has to do well or I get a miracle and win lottery lol or else it comes second after paying for my dream tail :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

grats on the supplies can't wait to see what you do and I love the leaf design best too :) Will definitely be following this and one day when I can eventually do it myself will read up a lot more about the process but for now I am just happy following along :)

As Australia it is going to cost a fortune for silicone etc so either my etsy store has to do well or I get a miracle and win lottery lol or else it comes second after paying for my dream tail :)

Thank you!! Well, it never hurts to pray for that miracle so I'll be praying you can get your silicone soon!!!

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Aww thanks lotus Blooming that is sweet of you to do that! :) Means a lot plan to work on some top designs and a hair design tonight which I love that I hope to bring up and get your opinions on as well as when you get designs done too looking at those as well! Will be great just wanted to try drawing a few of my own designs as well :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Aww thanks lotus Blooming that is sweet of you to do that! :) Means a lot plan to work on some top designs and a hair design tonight which I love that I hope to bring up and get your opinions on as well as when you get designs done too looking at those as well! Will be great just wanted to try drawing a few of my own designs as well :)

Definitely!! I can't wait to see them! I'm trying to get all designs done before my school load piles up again so you'll see them soon. :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Thanks sounds amazing :) And thanks a ton with the designs just when you can I so appreciate it!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks sounds amazing :) And thanks a ton with the designs just when you can I so appreciate it!

Of course, hon!! I'm happy to help~! <3

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

So Excited to save the cash and hopefully by the end of this year pay down the full amount to get a tail from you :) Will give you plenty of time to finish your MerSisters tail :) Can't wait I am so excited!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

So Excited to save the cash and hopefully by the end of this year pay down the full amount to get a tail from you :) Will give you plenty of time to finish your MerSisters tail :) Can't wait I am so excited!

Thank you! You're so sweet! I appreciate your faith in me and I hope to become skilled enough to build exactly the tail you have in mind! :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

If I can work out the tail I have in mind lol :P Right now I am not sure other than she creature inspired fluke and hip fins, ankle fins and a dorsal lol :P Oh and blues, teals, greens, whites and a little bright pink lol :P And you are welcome I am sure you will do fine :) You do amazing drawings so I am sure you will do this just as well!

Oh and not sure of the hip fins, ankle fins and dorsal shapes or styles yet either lol :P Have to work that out!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

If I can work out the tail I have in mind lol :P Right now I am not sure other than she creature inspired fluke and hip fins, ankle fins and a dorsal lol :P Oh and blues, teals, greens, whites and a little bright pink lol :P And you are welcome I am sure you will do fine :) You do amazing drawings so I am sure you will do this just as well!

Those colors sound beautiful~! I like the She-creature style fluke idea. I'll definitely attempt a dorsal. Theoretically, it should be similar to doing side fins, but on a larger scale. I'd have to do tests. Aww, thank you! I will do my best! :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

You are welcome and you were right those colors do suit me best! Need to work out the side fins etc though lol and lol I love big side fins lol so pretty hehe ankle fins can be medium size but yes I am sure the dorsal will be the same as side fins :) Thanks looking forward to it :) At least we have 11 months to get the design perfect lol :P

or 10 months lol depends on when I have the money good to go I guess :) As to how long we have to get the design confirmed :) Then there is duct tape dummies etc to do hehe :)

[PearlieMae]

So, you are going into the tailmaking business?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

You are welcome and you were right those colors do suit me best! Need to work out the side fins etc though lol and lol I love big side fins lol so pretty hehe ankle fins can be medium size but yes I am sure the dorsal will be the same as side fins :) Thanks looking forward to it :) At least we have 11 months to get the design perfect lol :P

or 10 months lol depends on when I have the money good to go I guess :) As to how long we have to get the design confirmed :) Then there is duct tape dummies etc to do hehe :)
Exactly! No pressure!! I'm looking forward to working with you again on this new design!! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

So, you are going into the tailmaking business?

I'm gonna try! Haha I hope they turn out even half as beautiful as yours! :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Exactly! No pressure!! I'm looking forward to working with you again on this new design!! :)

Yep totally no pressure! I can't wait to work with you on the design too I am certain we will come up with something amazing! I can't wait! Going to be brilliant :) And I am sure you will do fine!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Went to add you as a friend on Facebook Lotus Blooming but it wouldn't allow me :( This was your personal page as I thought you might like to be friends :) But yes I so can't wait to save the cash and get a tail from you I am so excited as I just know it will be amazing!

That's weird! Did you add the underscore? Lotus_Blooming is my MerNetwork name. Don't worry about it, though! I'll add you! Thanks so much!! :)

EDIT: It says we're already friends! That must've been why it wouldn't let you add me. :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Also it asks do I know Well your real name send her a message! Its weird as I know my page is blocked to everyone with content except friends

Can you see what I have on my personal page?? If you can then yes we are friends! Not my Mermaid Silverlilly page just my personal one I have been talking to you from?

I'll message you about it and we can figure it out there, if you don't mind! It may take a little while to figure out. :)

[Mermaid Lunette]

ANYwho, are you able to track your supplies? Maybe a way to help the wait would be to keep us updated on the supplies locations and stuff ^^

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Fluke designs for basic tails. I'm reusing two I posted in the "Show Us Your Tail Designs" thread, since no one claimed them and I really like how they turned out!:

273092731027311

Edit: Please, excuse my terrible digital signatures. Haha I need a stylus real bad.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

ANYwho, are you able to track your supplies? Maybe a way to help the wait would be to keep us updated on the supplies locations and stuff ^^
I am! The silicone already shipped, as did the monofin (which I mainly got for my friend to practice swimming). :)

[Mermaid Silverlilly]

Nice designs so beautiful can't wait till we work out my custom design! I feel it is going to be amazing!

[Mermaid Lunette]

Awesome! The fluke choices look SoTotesPresh x3. I think the third one is my fav :) can't wait to see how designs translate to real life!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Awesome! The fluke choices look SoTotesPresh x3. I think the third one is my fav :) can't wait to see how designs translate to real life!
Thanks, mersis! The third one is MY fave! Omg, twinkies again. Haha I can't wait either! They're going to be so fun to make~ <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Got my silicone in the mail, but I'm not touching it until everything else arrives!! I wanna make sure it lasts as long as possible! :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

All of my materials are in and I'm meeting my friend on Wednesday to hammer out her design!!! I'm going to have pictures up this week of pretty silicone scales for her tail! :D

[Mermaid Lunette]

Cool! Can't wait to see her design and scales!

[MermaidBrandie]

I'm so excited to show some of my newest scale designs! My husband inspired a few of them, as well! He's so helpful! He also inspired the idea of making little silicone tail attachments for those who are interested. Not sure if they'll catch on, but it's an idea! Anyway, here they are! :D

27286

27287

omg that arrowhead scale is to die for. may I try and sculpt it for my tail?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

omg that arrowhead scale is to die for. may I try and sculpt it for my tail?

Of course! I probably won't be using it for mine. I don't see it meshing very well with my current fluke designs. :)

[MermaidBrandie]

Yay!!! <3 thanks so much, love!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Yay!!! <3 thanks so much, love!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Not a problem! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Oh, but please be sure to let people know where you got the design! <3

[MermaidBrandie]

Of course! :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Of course! :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thank you! You're so sweet! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you, Lunette, for being my lovely assistant! Many, MANY updates from tonight. Loads of progress was made. Here's the first video of many to come on this tail making journey! :)


http://youtu.be/MMg6Z3TChkA

[Mermaid Lunette]

It was soooooo much fun <3 happy to help :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Here's tonight's progress! Man, it was eventful! Thanks again to Lunette for all your help! <3

27531
27532
27533
27534
27535

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

They look amazing! :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

They look amazing! :D

Thank you!!! I seriously hope they all turn out well! <3

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

You're welcome and no worries I'm sure they'll turn out great :3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

First little batch is DONE! I was afraid when they came out of the mold and didn't look all shiny and perfect that I had done something wrong! Thankfully, I realized after basting them with some colored silicone, they looked just like they're supposed to! <3

I'm hoping to come over to my parents' place tomorrow morning and work on making a larger resin mold tomorrow so I can make more each time! For now, I've already got another batch curing! :D

27548

[Mermaid Lunette]

Awesome!!!! Looks like it is coming along great :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Awesome!!!! Looks like it is coming along great :D
Thanks, girl!! I'm so relieved it worked out. I do need to get some more tools from Home Depot to work with, though in the future to handle the materials. Feel free to join me~! :>

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

Those look great!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Those look great!
Thank you!!! I'm really happy with them and can't wait to make a bunch more. <3

[Atlantisblue]

The first couple scales there look very nice :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

The first couple scales there look very nice :)

Thanks so much!! I'm so relieved! Haha <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Update! I made six more clay leaf molds and poured the resin over them to make a larger scale mold. Here's hoping and praying it turns out well! <3

[Mermaid Lunette]

Can't wait to see it!! I am sure it will be awesome ^-^

[Dancing Fish]

Ooh, love those leafy scales! Good luck, can't wait to see your lovely designs come to life!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Ahh, thank you both!! Love our mer community!!! <3

[PearlieMae]

You need to make your mold walls a LOT closer to your scales. Why waste all that resin?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

You need to make your mold walls a LOT closer to your scales. Why waste all that resin?

Thank you!!! I was just doing what it said on the bottles. Haha I appreciate the advice! That stuff is expensive! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Excited for this ice to melt so I can make MORE scales! Here's just a few of what I've got so far!
Also, I have the tape dummy stuffed and ready to go, and the power mesh is on its way! Whooo! <3

27632

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

Looking good Lotus! Love how the scales look.

[MermaidBrandie]

Shiney little leaves :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you, Mermaid Syrenity!! I love your profile picture, btw!

Coyote, Yeah, she really wanted a leafy mermaid tail! Haha I really like the results! It's going to be super cute! And it will fit her name. She wants to be known as Mermaid Eve. XD

[MermaidBrandie]

Awww thats adorable! I though this tail was for you! (I jumped in half way through though, im a sucker for process pics).


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

You're welcome and thank you. No worries Coyote, I think every one does it at some point haha

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Awww thats adorable! I though this tail was for you! (I jumped in half way through though, im a sucker for process pics).


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk I know, right!? She's gonna be the cutest mer. Haha <3

[MermaidBrandie]

Oh is the fluke gonna be rose shaped?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

You're welcome and thank you. No worries Coyote, I think every one does it at some point haha
You're welcome!! Agreed! Haha I definitely have. :b

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

Gotta love sailor moon XD, was actually beginning to to wonder what the fluke would look like my self. Though I'm sure no matter the design it'll look amazing.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Oh is the fluke gonna be rose shaped?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That sounds precious!! But no, she told me she wants kind of a traditional looking fluke. Similar to the basic outline of FinFolk's Lorena fluke. (She originally just wanted their fluke, but I told her the design would have to be altered so as not to copy another tailmaker and she definitely understood)! So I showed her the altered design and she liked it! Very leaf-like as well. :)

[MermaidBrandie]

Ahha, ok. I saw the leaf the scales and immediatly assumed petal fluke and fins. What all colors will it be? :) if you don't mind my asking.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Gotta love sailor moon XD, was actually beginning to to wonder what the fluke would look like my self. Though I'm sure no matter the design it'll look amazing.

Heck yes, you do!!! I was just talking about that to some friends of mine earlier! Haha Aww, that's so sweet, thank you! I'll draw up the design in full and post it here! It'll be a little while before I can start on the fluke's mold. I'm still trying to decide which monofin she should use. She wants flowy, so I'm thinking of the Hydra clear.

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

I've seen a youtube video of the hydra and love how the flowy look of it is similar to a mermaids tail movement.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Ahha, ok. I saw the leaf the scales and immediatly assumed petal fluke and fins. What all colors will it be? :) if you don't mind my asking.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

That makes sense! Haha Of course, I don't mind! She wants like a teal and then, a grass green. And she mentioned she likes gold accents.

I'm actually hoping to start selling tails as soon as I've made this one for her successfully and people are willing to take a risk with a new tailmaker like me. Haha :)

[Mermaid_Syrenity<3]

That's great :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I've seen a youtube video of the hydra and love how the flowy look of it is similar to a mermaids tail movement.

Yes!! It's gorgeous and I think that's exactly what she would like! I gave her a Finis Foil to practice with for safety's sake. She said she can practice at her university's gym. :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks!! Haha I hope it turns out well! I'm gonna do my very best to make sure it does, though! <3

[MermaidBrandie]

Oh i love teal, and gold would be a beautiful accent to greens. ^.^
Ive gotten pretty comfy with silicone, and i want to make my own tail...but i dunno of i'd ever be down to sell tails. Maybe... It just seems like such a big project after my little safe starfish and seashells. Lol


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Oh i love teal, and gold would be a beautiful accent to greens. ^.^
Ive gotten pretty comfy with silicone, and i want to make my own tail...but i dunno of i'd ever be down to sell tails. Maybe... It just seems like such a big project after my little safe starfish and seashells. Lol


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I agree! She has great taste!!

I bet you'd do great at it!!! :D

[MermaidBrandie]

Aw thanks. Now i just gotta get the funds. Haha.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Aw thanks. Now i just gotta get the funds. Haha.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

The struggle is real. Haha I can't wait to see what you do when you start making them! We need more talented tailmakers to meet the growing demand of mers! :D

[PearlieMae]

Ahha, ok. I saw the leaf the scales and immediatly assumed petal fluke and fins. What all colors will it be? :) if you don't mind my asking.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Ironically, I'm making Lotus a tail with a lotus blossom fluke!

[MermaidBrandie]

Maybe thats what made me think of it, pearlie. :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Ironically, I'm making Lotus a tail with a lotus blossom fluke!
Yes!! And I'm really excited to say I've almost paid it off in full! :) <3

[Mermaid Lunette]

Sounds like things are going SWIMMINGLY! :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Sounds like things are going SWIMMINGLY! :D

Thanks!! I believe they are! I'm going to try to make the future scales about half the thickness to see if I can get them lighter. I also got my new pigment so I can start up again!

[Mermaid Lunette]

Thanks!! I believe they are! I'm going to try to make the future scales about half the thickness to see if I can get them lighter. I also got my new pigment so I can start up again!

Yay ^^ that is good, and yea, the scales look a bit thick, but very pretty!

[MermaidBrandie]

Having cookie cutters made in the "arrowhead" scale shape. Paid for them today and should get them soon!! Thought you'd want to see the 3D model. :) http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/24/3bc3c2189ef4070d483a1dbc123a4591.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/24/429c846b4ae8dd4de44b6e492ba5f4c6.jpg


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Wesley]

Awesome! I knew someone would use custom cookie cutters!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MermaidBrandie]

If it works it works.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Sorry for the lack of updates! For months, the weather in Texas combined with my schoolwork made it impossible for me to work on tailmaking. Thusly, when I tried recently to make a resin mold, I think some of the resin had either gone bad or I simply mixed it incorrectly and ruined the mold. Or possibly, a combination. Either way, I'm not giving up, but I'll have to wait until I can afford more materials to start on this again. In the meantime, I'm likely going to be purchasing a tail for Mermaid Eve from Eva Tail once she's solidified her design.

So far, this is what she wants. Classic Ariel style, but with a mix of her favorite colors. The back will be a similar pattern.

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/MermaidEveTailDesignWatermark_zpsot1wqn7y.png (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/MermaidEveTailDesignWatermark_zpsot1wqn7y.png.html )

Thank you all for believing in me! I WILL get this done one day, but it may be a while before I can afford the materials again. I didn't realize how difficult my semester would be, and I timed the start of this project very poorly! I won't make that mistake again! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks to Mermaid Paola, I've been inspired to buy candy molds to make my scales! The resin mold making was always the hardest part for me, and the most frustrating and time-consuming. I still have a couple of months to use the silicone I have! I'm so thankful that I don't have to wait so long to try making a tail!!! I can't wait to start! Updates to come!!! <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Just poured 60 scales! Most of then are little Fleur de lis shapes that look like perfect diamond scale shapes! I can't wait to see how they turn out. So happy to be making progress again. :'D

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150716_022409_zpsnhnhgmus.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150716_022409_zpsnhnhgmus.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150716_023303_zpsqlswxbss.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150716_023303_zpsqlswxbss.jpg.html)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Today's progress! I'm excited that the scales are coming out well! Once again, they're a bit thick, but I'm learning to pour less silicone this time. This has been one of the most challenging artistic journeys ever, but I definitely have a huge level of respect for tailmakers! I'm enjoying the ride, despite its difficulties, too!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150716_152833_zpszrppngj1.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150716_152833_zpszrppngj1.jpg.html)

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150716_152933_zps7y8bvwff.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150716_152933_zps7y8bvwff.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

So exciting! XD
Does the silicone have to be poured, or could you use a brush to apply it to the mold and control the thickness that way?

They remind me of the gummy spearmint leaves we used to get at the supermarket when I was a kid. I wanna chew on one...

[Mermaid Wesley]

you couldnt use a brush, but if you work fast it will level out, so pouring should work fine.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks! I'm ordering leafy candy molds online to make them more leafy! In the meantime, at least I know that plastic candy molds work like a charm!!! Thank you guys for the advice and comments! I'm so excited!! :D :dance:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Just bought a bunch of these maple leaf candy molds! They're really cheap, and hopefully, I can get some nice silicone scales out of them in no time! It said shipping can take up to 10 days, so stay tuned for updates on this tail making adventure! :)
http://www.globalsugarart.com/maple-leaves-chocolate-mold-by-ck-p-26839.html

[Celaeno]

Oooh, those maple leaf molds are going to make gorgeous scales! Are there any petal molds?

[Mer-Crazy]

Such a cool scale design! I'm so excited to see it all come together!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Celaeno, thank you!!! I certainly hope so!!
I found some rose petal molds (or at least, I believe that's what they are)!
Here: http://www.globalsugarart.com/rose-petal-silicone-veiner-mold-by-ck-p-22151.html

Mer-Crazy, thank you! Me, too! So glad to be back in business!!!

[Celaeno]

Nice! Those rose petal molds would make nice-looking scales, I think. Hmm...

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Nice! Those rose petal molds would make nice-looking scales, I think. Hmm...
Go for it!! Maybe not with those, because I believe you could probably find better (and cheaper) ones scouring Google for a bit! But if you can't find any others, I bet they would do the trick just fine! A rose petal tail would be AMAZING!!! :D

[A_Koi_Mermaid]

Oh my gosh those fleur de lis scales are AMAZING! It looks so nice! I never would have thought of that but it looks really great!

[Ciriun]

Amazon is a good source for getting molds, at least in the U.S. I got my bath bomb molds from there for just a few bucks and I recall seeing a wide variety of chocolate molds.

So I followed that link and tried to picture all of the different molds in that section as scales. I thought the mustache one was the best until I found the set of tools. Can you imagine a tail covered in tiny pliers or handsaws? :lol:

Can't wait to see how the maple leaves look! The sugar maple is my state's official tree and there are tons around here, so when you mentioned molds of them all I could think of was maple sugar candies.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

A_Koi_Mermaid, thank you!!! I'm so happy with how they turned out. I'm positive I'll use them on a future tail!!

Ciriun, thanks for the tip!! I'll have to keep an eye out on Amazon for future reference!
I really CAN imagine it, and it looks awesome in my head! XD
No way! That's so cool! I hope to do your state justice, then! ;D Haha!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

My maple leaf molds just shipped!!! Once they get here, I'll be able to make at least 55 at once! :dance:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Just ordered the FINIS Rapid monofin! I heard the Wave would be too small for her shoe size. I hope it gives her that flow she's looking for! <3

[PearlieMae]

Be careful of cure inhibition over the rubber footpockets. I've managed to destroy a couple of Rapids, but I swim really hard. It has a nice flow, but is still a bit stiff.

Also, there are ridges that you CANNOT sand off, because the fin will break even faster if you do.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Be careful of cure inhibition over the rubber footpockets. I've managed to destroy a couple of Rapids, but I swim really hard. It has a nice flow, but is still a bit stiff.

Also, there are ridges that you CANNOT sand off, because the fin will break even faster if you do.

Ah, thank you so much!!! I'll keep that in mind! Drat! I guess I'll just have to get creative with those ridges! You're the best, Pearlie!!! :)

[Dancing Fish]

I like the Rapid, but it's not all that flexible. You might have to cut it down or make a longer fluke to have that flowy look. It sure is big! (But then I started with the little bitty Fin Fun monofin; maybe all real mono fins are big.) I'm so glad I trained with it before I made my tail-- my new fluke is just as stiff and even bigger.

Love those maple leaf scale molds! They are so detailed, and I think they won't look as much like leaves when you put them all together in rows.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I like the Rapid, but it's not all that flexible. You might have to cut it down or make a longer fluke to have that flowy look. It sure is big! (But then I started with the little bitty Fin Fun monofin; maybe all real mono fins are big.) I'm so glad I trained with it before I made my tail-- my new fluke is just as stiff and even bigger.

Love those maple leaf scale molds! They are so detailed, and I think they won't look as much like leaves when you put them all together in rows.

Great advice! Thank you so much, Dancing!! I'll probably end up making it a bigger fluke!!

Yes!! I think it'll make the illusion of scales with a nice surprise if you study it closely! Haha ;>

[Lotus the Mermaid]

The Rapid came!!! I was so excited, I started sculpting on it as soon as possible, but I'll have to get some tin cutters and give it a little indention for the fluke shape. I don't mind, though! Progress is being made! Here are some shots from tonight's tailmaking session with my merbuddy and helper, Mermaid Lunette!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150723_221554_zpsm17o8bzp.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150723_221554_zpsm17o8bzp.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150723_232636_zpsz1pruwph.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150723_232636_zpsz1pruwph.jpg.html)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks to the help of Lunette, yet again, I managed to figure out how to cut the monofin and here's my last update for the night! I literally worked until I ran out of clay and just couldn't anymore!!!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150724_025003_zpsisqld26u.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150724_025003_zpsisqld26u.jpg.html)

It may be my perfectionism talking, but the right fin seems a bit off-center so I may need to fix that, but otherwise, I'm incredibly happy with the progress so far!!!! :D

[Celaeno]

Exciting!!!!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Just pulled the first 60 scales and laid them out so you can see what they'll look like on Mermaid Eve's tail! (Well, the texture anyway)! It will eventually be a mosaic of different colors!

Finished with the first 60 - all emerald green. The next 60 are a combination of spring green with some straight up gold.

Can't wait to pull them tomorrow! :)

Thanks again to Mermaid Lunette for helping to make this process go much more smoothly! <3
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_054342_zps6smmz6bk.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_054342_zps6smmz6bk.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_054428_zps40ac1qdn.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_054428_zps40ac1qdn.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_054508_zpsbkp6mksa.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_054508_zpsbkp6mksa.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_054603_zpsvnu2qnq2.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_054603_zpsvnu2qnq2.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_054653_zps1uncfci6.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_054653_zps1uncfci6.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

Ohhhhh my god, that looks so luscious.

[Yulia]

The last ones look like orangecandies mmmmmm

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Oh my goodness, I know! I have to remind myself that I can't chew on them. XD

[Lotus the Mermaid]

More colors!!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_163948_zpsvam62kmu.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_163948_zpsvam62kmu.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_163918_zps5yfz0vpt.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_163918_zps5yfz0vpt.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

I literally gasped. It's so beautiful! Reminds me of walking through the woods when the leaves are changing colors...

[Ashe]

Wow!

[Mermaid Galene]

Lovely!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I literally gasped. It's so beautiful! Reminds me of walking through the woods when the leaves are changing colors...
Omg, thank you!! That's exactly what I was going for! My friend Mermaid Eve's human name is Autumn, so it fits!!! :D

Thank you, everyone!!! This is such an exciting artistic adventure! It's so fun to "go to work" everyday! :D <3

[Mermaid Lunette]

lookin so awesome!!! <3

[Celaeno]

That's exactly what I was going for!

Nailed it. :clap:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Update! Mermaid Eve is coming over today at 2 to double check the measurements so I can pin the power mesh to her tape dummy! And even more colors! Finally, found the pigment for a nice, straight green!! :)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150726_043031_zpsinljmrcg.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150726_043031_zpsinljmrcg.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150726_043122_zps4nz9bwqi.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150726_043122_zps4nz9bwqi.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150726_042919_zpsb8u5vpio.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150726_042919_zpsb8u5vpio.jpg.html)

[Luna Dreamtide]

Oh my Lotus! This is stunning, such a unique design that works so beautifully! Autumn is precisely what this is. Excited to see this continue.

[OceanWhisper]

I love those colours! This is gonna be awesome

[Celaeno]

::makes high-pitched dolphin squeeing noise:: Eeeeeee!

[Mermaid Lunette]

it is lookin so awesome <3 lookit all those colors * 0 *

[Keiris]

Lotus! You have done such a FANTASTIC job! Love the uniqueness and the color transitions. It really has quite an organic feel to it. Are you enjoying the process so far?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks so much, guys!!

Keiris, I LOVE it! It's super fun! I really didn't like working with resin, but I think that's because I was working with a horrible makeshift workspace. When I have to use it again for the fluke, it should be easier. For now, I absolutely love pouring scales. :D It's so much fun!!!

[TritonsGuard]

If that works, this might be helpful for those who want to use that method, though it may be expensive.

https://www.candylandcrafts.com/custommademolds.htm

[Keiris]

Thanks so much, guys!!

Keiris, I LOVE it! It's super fun! I really didn't like working with resin, but I think that's because I was working with a horrible makeshift workspace. When I have to use it again for the fluke, it should be easier. For now, I absolutely love pouring scales. :D It's so much fun!!!

I wish I enjoyed the seaming process as much. Maybe to shake things up a little, I should try the individual scale method again. One of the first tails I made as a kid was out of a turquoise and green shower curtain cut up as large individual scales and each lined in silver tin foil at the bottom so it was all waterproof. I enjoyed it but I was a lot shorter back then. ;)

BTW Lotus, thank you for the kind words on the other thread. I love looking at your beaming smile in your avatar!!! It's GORGEOUS and INFECTIOUS!!!!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I wish I enjoyed the seaming process as much. Maybe to shake things up a little, I should try the individual scale method again. One of the first tails I made as a kid was out of a turquoise and green shower curtain cut up as large individual scales and each lined in silver tin foil at the bottom so it was all waterproof. I enjoyed it but I was a lot shorter back then. ;)

BTW Lotus, thank you for the kind words on the other thread. I love looking at your beaming smile in your avatar!!! It's GORGEOUS and INFECTIOUS!!!!

I highly recommend it!! It feels so authentic and I love working with the pigments and experimenting with different colors. Wow! That sounds amazing!!! You're really creative!! Haha :)

Anytime! I meant every word!! Aw, thank you!! I really appreciate it!!!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Good news! I learned the color combo for indigo! :)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150727_003543_zps0aw5rkjt.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150727_003543_zps0aw5rkjt.jpg.html)

I got a little drizzle in one of the greens, but it's in the back, thankfully! I just hope it doesn't show through. ^-^;

[Celaeno]

Ooh, those indigo scales look lovely, I look forward to seeing them after they're pulled!

[PearlieMae]

They are very pretty!

Always test very small amounts with pigments first, or you'll be heartbroken when you've mixed up a beautiful batch only to find it stays a sticky, uncured mess! Not to mention wasted silicone!

[Nashoba]

I'm diggin' on the leafy and arrowhead scales. And the addons to the tails, like the urchins? Not something I've seen before, but something I have contemplated and would love to not only do myself, but to see done, as well!

I can't even articulate how much I want a tail of leaf scales, now, being a Native mer and all. . . OMG. . . :jawdrop:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Celaeno, they turned out great! I'm taking a picture of those and others soon! I've made a couple of batches since that one!

Pearlie, thank you SO much for all of your amazing advice! I can't even tell you enough how much I appreciate it. <3

Thank you, Nashoba!! Once I've managed to make this tail, I'm planning on taking an order or two! The first few tails I make will be discounted, of course, since it would be taking a risk with a newbie like me. I would be honored to make a tail for you. :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Poured a bunch more since my last update! Indigo, seafoam green, deep blue, and lots of green. They're piling up! I sculpted the fluke more, but I think I may need to make it flare out more. What do you guys think? Also, if aI'm doing anything wrong, please let me know! I'm going off of a video I saw for tailmaking, in the fluke department , so if there's a better way to make this mold, please feel free to let me know! :)

I also added some brown just for another leafy color. It'll be for a future tail. Haha I didn't mean to make it, but it came out pretty so I don't mind keeping it! :)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150728_021904_zps3cwqimno.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150728_021904_zps3cwqimno.jpg.html)
The indigo under a brighter light.
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150728_022017_zps44o9bqhf.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150728_022017_zps44o9bqhf.jpg.html)
Seafoam green!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150728_022110_zpsbpp2ho5d.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150728_022110_zpsbpp2ho5d.jpg.html)
Piles of scales!!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150728_021759_zpslng7iktm.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150728_021759_zpslng7iktm.jpg.html)
The fluke sculpt so far!! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Just cut off some of the ends and oh my goodness, it looks so much better already. :'D

At least, I think so!!! What do you guys think? <3
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150728_042044_zpsgq4nbfbx.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150728_042044_zpsgq4nbfbx.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

Looking good! :D
Those piles of scales, so much shiny pretty goodness...

You should totally go pro and take orders!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Looking good! :D
Those piles of scales, so much shiny pretty goodness...

You should totally go pro and take orders!

Aww, thank you!! :'D
I shall!!!

[TritonsGuard]

Once I'm more financially stable, you could get a request from me.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Once I'm more financially stable, you could get a request from me.

Aww, yay! Thank you! I'd be honored, and I love the tail ideas you've shared with me so far!! :)

[TritonsGuard]

Thank you. I'll be working on the design until then. As for the tail you are making now, it looks something like a forest spirit. Very creative in the scale texture and color pattern. It makes me think of Thanksgiving. I get the feeling this tail would look great with a sunrise or sunset in the background, and even better if it is in autumn.


I look forward to seeing more. Good work.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you. I'll be working on the design until then. As for the tail you are making now, it looks something like a forest spirit. Very creative in the scale texture and color pattern. It makes me think of Thanksgiving. I get the feeling this tail would look great with a sunrise or sunset in the background, and even better if it is in autumn.


I look forward to seeing more. Good work.

Great!! I can't wait to hear more from you! :D

Wow, that's an awesome description! I love it! Thanks! I bet that's true, I'll have to suggest a photoshoot like that to Mermaid Eve asap! (^-^)
That means a lot, thank you!!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I poured a new color. This time, it's just straight Emerald pigment. <3

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150728_222340_zpsainl01tx.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150728_222340_zpsainl01tx.jpg.html)

I love how it looks in the light. It's just a pure sea foam green.

I also worked on covering up all the ridges on the Rapid. I've already gone through two blocks of Plastalina, so I'll have to get another tomorrow. Thank God it's on sale! :)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150728_222610_zpsme6bz4bm.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150728_222610_zpsme6bz4bm.jpg.html)

I finally finished getting the tape dummy stuffed to the point where the measurements are pretty exact and match those of Mermaid Eve's most recent sizing. So I wrapped it in power mesh and sealed the seams with Dragonskin. I'll do a bit of cutting and then, I'll be able to start pinning scales! I can't wait! \(*^-^*)/

Also, in order to get that forest green that Mermaid Eve requested for some of the scales along the sides, I found a nice green loose powder eye shadow that I'm going to try out! I hope it works and gives her the color she's hoping for! <3

Hunter Green Eye Shadow (https://www.etsy.com/listing/105181820/hunter-green-eyeshadow-puck-dark-green?ref=shop_home_active_3&ga_search_query=hunter)

[Celaeno]

Oh, that emerald scale is gorgeous...

[Daylee]

I love the new green color. It's so pretty it doesn't look real. <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks for the support, everybody! You help to make a frustrating day brighter! \(^.^)/

The frustration only came from two things:
1. Trying and failing to prop up Mermaid Eve's tape dummy. Lunette helped me to set it up, but no matter what we tried, it just wouldn't hang from the ceiling like I planned. It was too heavy.
2. The awkward shape of the FINIS Rapid getting in the way of this fluke design. I realized that I will have to widen the bottom of Mermaid Eve's tape dummy because the Rapid sets your feet far apart, however when we made her tape dummy, I asked her to put her feet comfortably together so as to be able to fit in the tail. I didn't realize at the time (it was months ago) that the monofin I'd be using for her tail would set her feet about two inches apart. It's fixable, but frustrating because it feels like time I could be contributing to pinning scales or something. But now that I know the ankle area is going to have to be wider, I made sure to widen the actual fluke itself to balance it out. (I was planning on making it flare out more anyway for a more mermaidy look, but it's good to know that I can use this new size to make it look more aesthetically pleasing)!

Anyway, here it is!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150729_225904_zps3uddtebr.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150729_225904_zps3uddtebr.jpg.html)

[TritonsGuard]

You are welcome. I, and I'm sure everyone else is as well, am glad that what we say bring you encouragement.

It's very good that you noticed the mistake this early on. I am no tail maker, but I can see that little "de-tail" would have been a major problem later on. However, I think there is something better that you have gained through this experience. You learned a very vital step, one that could have cost you in time, work, waste of supply, and possibly money, but you noticed it before it did anything. Not everyone gets a lesson like that. What I would do if I were you, if you haven't already, is to write down your list of things to do when taking measurements, and put that step in right away. Anything else you learn that can make your tails better, put them on the list too. Every time you ask for measurements, get the sheet out. This way, you will probably never have to worry about making the same mistakes again, and also possibly do things better the next time. You can do the same thing for any of the other parts of the process. It may seem like an extra thing to do now, but if you store the info safely, you only have to write it down once.

I like the shape of the fluke. What kind of texture will it have?

Keep on going. You are making progress.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

You are welcome. I, and I'm sure everyone else is as well, am glad that what we say bring you encouragement.

It's very good that you noticed the mistake this early on. I am no tail maker, but I can see that little "de-tail" would have been a major problem later on. However, I think there is something better that you have gained through this experience. You learned a very vital step, one that could have cost you in time, work, waste of supply, and possibly money, but you noticed it before it did anything. Not everyone gets a lesson like that. What I would do if I were you, if you haven't already, is to write down your list of things to do when taking measurements, and put that step in right away. Anything else you learn that can make your tails better, put them on the list too. Every time you ask for measurements, get the sheet out. This way, you will probably never have to worry about making the same mistakes again, and also possibly do things better the next time. You can do the same thing for any of the other parts of the process. It may seem like an extra thing to do now, but if you store the info safely, you only have to write it down once.

I like the shape of the fluke. What kind of texture will it have?

Keep on going. You are making progress.

Thanks so much, TritonsGuard! I really appreciate the advice. I am really glad that I caught it early. It's ironic that I'm a pretty detail-oriented person, but with very little patience for organization. Haha I'll be sure to take that advice and apply it to my next tail-making adventure! ^-^

As for the texture, I'm going to have to consult with Mermaid Eve. She's definitely digging the leaf theme, so maybe something kind of leafy would work well. But she also loves Ariel, so it may end up having some classic Ariel grooves going with the flow of the fluke shape. I'll have to try a couple of different things and get her input before moving forward officially with the fluke texture. I know it's going to have a nice mesh of colors! Can't wait to pour that resin and get it ready for silicone. <3

[Celaeno]

But just think of all you're learning through this process! The next tail will be easier because you'll know what to look out for ahead of time.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

But just think of all you're learning through this process! The next tail will be easier because you'll know what to look out for ahead of time.

Thank you so much, Celaeno!!! I definitely know for certain that I tend to be to hard on myself without noticing. Haha I get impatient whenever it takes me a bit longer to learn something new. But your so right! I've learned a lot and I can't wait to make tails professionally! :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Mermaid Eve's fluke! (Unless she would prefer a different texture)!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150730_053322_zps23sub3hj.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150730_053322_zps23sub3hj.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

Thank you so much, Celaeno!!! I definitely know for certain that I tend to be to hard on myself without noticing. Haha I get impatient whenever it takes me a bit longer to learn something new. But your so right! I've learned a lot and I can't wait to make tails professionally! :)

Totally understand, I'm the exact same way. "I haven't mastered this immediately?! RAGE SMASH!"

[Mermaid Julianne]

Mermaid Eve's fluke! (Unless she would prefer a different texture)!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150730_053322_zps23sub3hj.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150730_053322_zps23sub3hj.jpg.html)

Ooh it looks incredible!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Celaeno, that sounds like me! Haha XD It's so frustrating sometimes! I just need to chill out!!

Julianne, thank you so much!

Mermaid Eve said it's perfect so I'll be pouring the resin soon! (*^▽^*)
I just need to make sure that everything is even so that nothing ends up lopsided!!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I may also try my hand at etching some maple leaves into the clay at the top. (Or cheating and using the candy molds to make them)! ;B

[Mermaid Lunette]

Celaeno, that sounds like me! Haha XD It's so frustrating sometimes! I just need to chill out!!

Julianne, thank you so much!

Mermaid Eve said it's perfect so I'll be pouring the resin soon! (*^▽^*)
I just need to make sure that everything is even so that nothing ends up lopsided!!


that is great!!! :D sooooo exciting. it is gonna turn out sooooooooo pretty <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you, Lunette!!! You're an amazing mer-buddy!!! (*^▽^*)

I'm finished with the fluke as much as I need to be! I added some scale detailing to the top just in case I need it to make a smooth transition. It's a bit rough because I don't have the appropriate sculpting tool for detail at the moment, but I'll likely end up covering it in leaf scales anyway so that's fine with me. I've just got to get one more block of clay tomorrow to smooth out the top just a touch and then, I can make the mold! :)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150731_001208_zpsynqiqx5a.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150731_001208_zpsynqiqx5a.jpg.html)

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150731_001249_zpsamj5kmqb.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150731_001249_zpsamj5kmqb.jpg.html)

I'm going to start building the enclosure for the resin tonight.

[Princess Kae-Leah]

Great scale and fluke shape!

[Mermaid Lunette]

:D exciting!!!!! <3 soooooooooo close <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

The enclosure has been built! At least, as well as I think I need to build it right now. I didn't hammer any part of it, because it seems to be staying together well enough with wood glue. I also lined it with caulking silicone so that no resin would leak through. I'm going to have to purchase at least a couple more bottles of resin tomorrow when I get paid, and I may need to get more cheese cloth, too, to support it. The Rapid is so darn tall, it's gonna take quite a lot of both to make a sturdy mold that covers the entire fluke. <3

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150731_022357_zpskw5trpgw.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150731_022357_zpskw5trpgw.jpg.html)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

In other news, I found out I'm way out of shape. That caulking took all of the strength I had in my shriveled T-Rex arms. I'm exhausted now, and way more sweaty than I'd like to admit. And I promise I cut the nozzle really wide for better flow! Ah well. xD

[WaterDragon]

are you leaving the monofin in while you cast it?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

are you leaving the monofin in while you cast it?

Yes! I'm going to cover the rest of it with either clay or plastic to make sure that the monofin isn't damaged and the resin isn't inhibited. :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

However, if anyone knows a better way of doing things, please let me know! I don't know how I could remove the monofin from the clay at this point.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I decided I wasn't satisfied with the scale pattern I had before so I made a bunch of clay leaves and put them all over the fluke~ I may also add a few to the design reaching toward the crease of the fluke so that it looks a bit more filled in. <3

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/Monofin%20Update3%208.1.15_zpss6bfsqih.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/Monofin%20Update3%208.1.15_zpss6bfsqih.jpg.html)

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/Monofin%20Update2%208.1.15_zpsj3ece9np.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/Monofin%20Update2%208.1.15_zpsj3ece9np.jpg.html)

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/Monofin%20Update1%208.1.15_zpsgfmkdwm4.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/Monofin%20Update1%208.1.15_zpsgfmkdwm4.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

Beautiful! Right now it reminds me of a fancy pie crust...

[TritonsGuard]

I think it's neat what you did with the fin base. The texture and pattern look shrub like, yet uniform enough for it to look like scales. The only thing I would do is to have some kind of transition between it and the fluke. Not saying you should. It looks great the way it is, and you are the artist, but it is just my opinion.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks, guys!!

Celaeno, Haha! Mermaid Eve said it reminds her of fancy white chocolate! ^.^

TritonsGuard, I agree with you! I plan on adding some more leaves going down the center toward the crease in the fluke! I think it needs that, too!!

[Mermaid Wesley]

Nice!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Another fluke update!! I did as TritonsGuard suggested and made a bit more of a transition between the fluke and body of the tail!

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150802_081241_zps3rsmidml.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150802_081241_zps3rsmidml.jpg.html)

I hope Mermaid Eve likes it!!

[TritonsGuard]

That is lookin great. What do you plan to do next?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

That is lookin great. What do you plan to do next?

Thanks!! I may experiment with a grass-like texture on the fluke itself so that it will look as though it's made of large blades of grass laying over each other. And along the sides, I may put a little winding, curling vine with a few leaf scales branching off. :)

[Celaeno]

That sounds pretty! Something like overlapping palm fronds...

[Lotus the Mermaid]

That sounds pretty! Something like overlapping palm fronds...

Exactly!! That's my goal anyway. We'll see how well it turns out. XD

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Finished the fluke! I still may try the ivy detailing down the sides, but for now, I'm very happy with how it looks! (´∀`)http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150803_104057_zps48qpfoia.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150803_104057_zps48qpfoia.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

Very pretty.

[WaterDragon]

Yes! I'm going to cover the rest of it with either clay or plastic to make sure that the monofin isn't damaged and the resin isn't inhibited. :)

oh good, that's what I was worried about :) I've worked with people who would have just poured the resin onto the clay without even thinking about protecting the mono fin. I'm glade you have a plan.

the fluke looks amazing by the way.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

oh good, that's what I was worried about :) I've worked with people who would have just poured the resin onto the clay without even thinking about protecting the mono fin. I'm glade you have a plan.

the fluke looks amazing by the way.

I really appreciate you looking out for me there!!
Thank you!! I am seriously so thankful for how this is turning out. And Mermaid Eve said it looks perfect, so I'm closing in on Phase 2!

In other news, my hunter green pigment is coming in today!! After I pour enough of those scales, I'll finally be able to start pinning! o(^▽^)o

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I pulled 60 forest green scales! They turned out great! The hunter green eye shadow mixed with a dash of apple green pigment made a nice forest green. I'm curing 60 more that I made sure to mix even more thoroughly for a more solid forest green color. But they'll mesh very well! I'm excited because this is the FINAL color I needed so I can start pinning scales at last!!! “ψ(｀∇´)ψ
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150804_034033_zps0s52dlsx.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150804_034033_zps0s52dlsx.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

Those are beautiful! They have such depth, like gemstones!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

That's why I LOVE Pearl Ex pigments!! o(^▽^)o
They give an amazing, sparkly depth to whatever they color!!!

[Celaeno]

Nice. I'll have to remember that.

[PaolaMF]

Is amazing !!! :)

[Mermaid Julianne]

Finished the fluke! I still may try the ivy detailing down the sides, but for now, I'm very happy with how it looks! (´∀`)http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150803_104057_zps48qpfoia.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150803_104057_zps48qpfoia.jpg.html)

I just saw this. I love the transition between the scales and the fluke, and the fluke is so smooth!

[TritonsGuard]

The way you did this tail so far is remarkable. You have blended both the plant and scale aspects together quite well. I've been thinking this for a while, but with the new scales that came out, I'm going to say it. It looks like you are making the tail that Poison Ivy (the villainess from Batman) would wear. It's funny cause both she and Ariel have very red hair and green as either there clothing or tail. People may ask "what was the inspiration, Disney or DC?" Can't wait to see how this turns out. If it looks as good or better when it is completed, she is going to be a very happy mermaid. Again, once I can afford it, you may hear from me.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

The way you did this tail so far is remarkable. You have blended both the plant and scale aspects together quite well. I've been thinking this for a while, but with the new scales that came out, I'm going to say it. It looks like you are making the tail that Poison Ivy (the villainess from Batman) would wear. It's funny cause both she and Ariel have very red hair and green as either there clothing or tail. People may ask "what was the inspiration, Disney or DC?" Can't wait to see how this turns out. If it looks as good or better when it is completed, she is going to be a very happy mermaid. Again, once I can afford it, you may hear from me.

For a comic book AND Disney nerd such as myself, that is an AMAZING compliment!!! And you know Who I'm going to thank for how well it's turning out!!! Seriously, I believe it's a miracle that everything is coming together so quickly!
I would be ecstatic to make your tail! It sounds like an artist's dream!! (^.^)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Update on the tail! Thanks to the extraordinary assistance from Mermaid Lunette and my hubby, I just finished pinning an entire side of Mermaid Eve's tail! Hopefully, she likes what we've done so far! I'm curing more colors for the other side so we'll be able to move forward in the next couple of days! Thank the Lord for how quickly this is all going!!! (*^▽^*)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150805_022509_zpsfngrtjmu.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150805_022509_zpsfngrtjmu.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150805_022542_zpsydzkjzih.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150805_022542_zpsydzkjzih.jpg.html)

[Celaeno]

WOW! It's coming together so quickly, I'm enjoying all your updates. :D

[Lotus the Mermaid]

WOW! It's coming together so quickly, I'm enjoying all your updates. :D
Thank you so much, Celaeno!!! I seriously appreciate your support throughout this whole process! (*^-^*) <3

[Luna Dreamtide]

Looks fantastic! Beautiful work!

[OceanWhisper]

Colorful fishy she will be! Gorgeous!!!! :rollover:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you guys!! I spoke with Mermaid Eve and it seems I misunderstood her color pattern request for the sides! She's not a fan of the uniformity that the stripes bring, so I'm going to unpin those and repin them in a mosaic-like pattern, as I'm doing with the front! The dark colors are in the right position (at her sides), but they're just not quite what she imagined! I'm going to miss looking at that stripe, to be honest! But I hope the end result is exactly what her heart desires! My Shell Shock order comes Friday and I'm building a closer enclosure around the monofin in the meantime (so as to save the molding material), and curing as many colors as possible so I'll be ready to pin the other side asap!! Looking forward to posting the next update!! <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

New enclosure made from tape, poster board, and caulking silicone so as to ensure that no amount of Shell Shock is wasted! :)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150806_071019_zpsb59cv6vt.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150806_071019_zpsb59cv6vt.jpg.html)

[PearlieMae]

...I'm going to unpin those and repin them in a mosaic-like pattern, as I'm doing with the front! The dark colors are in the right position (at her sides), but they're just not quite what she imagined! I'm going to miss looking at that stripe, to be honest!...

Welcome to my world. :mermaid kiss:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Welcome to my world. :mermaid kiss:

Lol! The struggle is real...

[Keiris]

The colors and texture are striking, Lotus! Hope the Shell Shock pour goes well. Of the whole process, THAT'S the part that always makes me a little anxious. Don't you just love that 8 minute window?

[Mermaid Wesley]

Psst you can pour it. You don't have to brush it, it might be too hard for such a large surface. And small batches are your friend. Layer it up


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Keiris]

Psst you can pour it. You don't have to brush it, it might be too hard for such a large surface. And small batches are your friend. Layer it up


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Yeah I never brush it. My molds have always been waaay to large for that., I pour and spread. Quickly!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you so much for the advice!! It's seriously appreciated. You guys may have saved me a lot of time, money, and heartache since I'm a newb with all of these materials! I have a silicone basting brush that I may try to use with the Shell Shock after I pour it since they tend to be best for brushing things without leaving tracks and I'd rather not ruin the clay mold if possible! (I don't mind if I have to end up tossing it afterward - it wasn't expensive). :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Poured about two layers over the mold tonight! I hope I did it correctly! Praying it turns out well once I pour another layer or two tomorrow (if I have enough Part A left)!

Those of you who have used Shell Shock, please let me know what you think! Does it look good so far? Do I need to stop here or is adding another layer or so a good idea?? Thank you all for your help so far!

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/20150807_232443_zpsjlumsls5.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/20150807_232443_zpsjlumsls5.jpg.html)
P. S. I think I accidentally breathed some and am a bit woozy. X-x;

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Mermaid Lunette lent a gracious hand to me tonight, so I was able to pin a new side for Mermaid Eve! Hopefully, she's happier with this one as it's not so uniform and much more mosaic-like!!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150808_010826_zpspcgyv3t4.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150808_010826_zpspcgyv3t4.jpg.html)(That is her gracious hand in the photo)!
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150808_010902_zpshxao9ots.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150808_010902_zpshxao9ots.jpg.html)http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150808_010917_zpssmwqnhrm.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150808_010917_zpssmwqnhrm.jpg.html)

[Keiris]

Lookin good Lotus! I think you definitely need a bit more Shell Shock. Some of those areas look a little thin towards the top. You can also layer in some burlap for added strength. When it comes time to clean the clay out of the mold, if some places are too thin they will be brittle and your tools can poke right through. That is not fun.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Lookin good Lotus! I think you definitely need a bit more Shell Shock. Some of those areas look a little thin towards the top. You can also layer in some burlap for added strength. When it comes time to clean the clay out of the mold, if some places are too thin they will be brittle and your tools can poke right through. That is not fun.

Thank you so much!! I ordered a trial size since the Part A is the same size! I have some cheese cloth to add for extra support! Do you think that will be good enough? I've only ever worked with resin before so this is all new!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Mermaid Eve LOVES this new scale pattern! We can finish pinning this weekend! o((*^▽^*))o

[CheshireKat]

:: cheers on with anemone pom-poms :: :D

Sent from my SGP311 using Tapatalk

[RastaMer]

Wow, so unique! I love that more people are experimenting with silicone and making some awesome creations! Tailmaking eally is a form of art.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you so much!!

Cheshire, you make me want to make anemone pompoms!! XD

Rasta, the more I work on this tail, the more I realize how much goes into it! I was just talking to Lunette about that last night! It takes so many different skills that you either need to have or learn in order to come up with a satisfying result! But the challenge is so fun!!! And I love making someone's dream come true! o(^▽^)o

[Mermaid Wesley]

Isn't it 4:1 for the shellshock? Anyways I would do another layer for sure. Better too thick than too thin.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Celaeno]

Awesome! Can't wait to see more pictures!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Mermaid Wesley, it is! I ran out of Part A but I still have a whole bunch of Part B left! I made sure to use a food scale to measure it exactly! Thank you!! I think you're right!

I can't wait to take more pictures!!! This is so exciting! We're so close! :dance: