Ashton's 2nd tail adventures

[Ashton]

Hello again everyone. I have been away for a while really focusing on school and getting stuff done! But now I am back and just started to make a new tail (photos to come). This tail will be using the same scale box as before, the colors will be pastel greens. I am debating wether or not to make a smaller fluke, since my last one was so big and heavy.

What I am doing differently:
-no neoprene (way to hot and added to much weight, even tho it helped me float in the water)
-painting the colors on in long thin layers to get a nice color blend (silicon drying time takes forever)
-possibly making a smaller fluke
- I have a water proof zipper, but I am not sure if I am going to use it or not... (ideas anyone?)

More to come.


Edit:
This project has evolved into a full individual scale project (as you will see reading this forum). Blending from skin color to blue to a light purple, a bit of a rainbow effect.

[PearlieMae]

-Powermesh is virtually weightless and Joann Fabrics has it and always has a coupon
-No need for a zipper with silicone. Dragonskin stretches 1000x it's original size before tearing!
-Also, for painting, get faster curing silicone if you don't want to wait too long.
-Not a big fan of overly huge flukes, myself, I like a midsize, wide but not too long. I swim in a lake with lots of underwater stuff and am afraid of long, flowy bits getting caught on submerged tree branches.

Good luck!

[Atlantisblue]

I look forward to watching your thread to see what your going to do :)

[Ashton]

Layer 1: 27329
Layer 2: 27330
Those layers are really thin so i will probably do 2 more before I add fabric and pull it out of the mold.

Should I use a dark color as the final layers to add depth or just keep them the way they are and use clear for the last layers?

[Ashton]

Dudes and Dude-etts. something happened.... The silicon STUCK! like I cant pull it out... its locked in there. I cant even peel it out... I think something went wrong with my smooth on... I think it was old and took a dump... I think I will have to make a whole new scale mold sheet. Even tho I am bummed about it... I did learn a lot from my old scale sheet... I double I will try that double scale thing again, didn't mold well. And maybe next time I will just use fiberglass resin to encase the scales- no white gel coat.

[Trident True]

Good to see you again.. yep ive been away for some time. like your plan of action.. in regards to a Zipper. I added one to my tail for the sole purpose of easy access... its very easy to put on and to take off. but the downside is you do need someone to help zip you up as it can be quiet difficult. if does fall down to personal preference. personally with me, i can not stand even attempting to put a tail over my legs that is designed to be so tight. or even sit there and roll it up over my legs. it would drive me NUTS, thats why i added the zipper. Pearliemae is right, silicone does stretch so a zipper isnt really necessary with a silicone tail. As for Flukes. I personally hate large ones. I try to have the fluke proportioned to my body, smaller petite mers that have larger flukes make them look out of proportion. eg. you don't see a tall person with tiny feet, the same aspect should be applied with tails. good luck with your New Adventure.. we will be here cheering you on... :cheerleader:

[Dreadful Mermaids]

Oh nooo. Did you add a release agent before hand? Maybe the silicone was cast too thin? I'm still a beginner so I'm not sure. I seen a video a while ago. I wish I could find it again if I do I'll post it but the guy experienced a similar occurrence so he too a tooth pick or something tiny and used it to carefully lift the sides very slowly then left it there like that for like a day or so and then it became easier to pull after. Idk if that'll help. Sorry you are experiencing trouble. Hope it all works out :mermaid kiss:

[Prairie Mermaid Jamie]

Could it be whatever you used for a gel coat? I would try the toothpick method Dreadful stated. Or maybe add a bit more silicone to one edge to make it nice and thick to grab onto. I found the thinner I cast something the more difficult the initial peeling was just because there wasnt much to pull with.

I hope you can get it out of there!!!!

I can second the gel coat of resin. I did for all my molds and the silicone peeled away no problem. I love bondo stuff!

[Ashton]

maybe it is the gel coat. I dont know really what went wrong. I can peel it out-- kinda-- but it comes out in small scale size or smaller chuncks. I did a sample test before and it came out just fine, but now that I go back and look at it, it smells chemicaly.

[Trident True]

ok some ideas did you mix the correct ratio? sometimes if it doesn't cure properly it can make it difficult to pull from mold. with plaster molds you don't need a protective coating. the silicone will cure just fine and it pulls from the mold perfectly.

[malinghi]

That's really weird. I thought silicone doesn't stick to anything. Hope your mold is okay.

[Ashton]

I thought silicone didn't stick to anything either. Again I am not sure what happened. But I plan on making another one- maybe one not so complicated heh.


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[Ashton]

I think I might try the Pearlie scale method, casting individual scales at a time.

[Atlantisblue]

Aw sorry to hear the silicone stuck :( did you manage to get it off later?

[Ashton]

No I am still working on prying it all out slowly. In the mean time I am going to try Pearlies method.

I made scales using a sea shell out of fimo craft clay in various sizes (small Medium and large)
. http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/2c3d03a7be7016f05ba8a9ffa8717628.jpg

I found at my local craft store 2 different types of mold making products.http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/b0a0a804e58a8ef18e4d47c43c7fc59f.jpg

I am now doing test molds on 1 small scale and 1 large scale (each) to see which works best.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/c39197ae67362f2332403488853c64d9.jpg


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[Ashton]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/ed1a25ba4ce9a56ff317d67de1e7f8aa.jpg
The white color is the 'amazing' resin curing and the sandy color is the other 'instamold'


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[Ashton]

Ok so the 'instamold' was a failure- don't ever use it!http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/4ec7b8d4960fb3fb2e9b7fe4a35586b4.jpg
It has the texture of a weird jelly and when demolded long after the time said on the instructions it just slumped and was goo like.
The resin on the other had turned out fine. I don't think fimo clay was the best idea to use- cleaning took a bit. And I think I need to make my scales thicker.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/bac3381eda4b1a205bb2e2cf4bb171bd.jpg

After I spent about 30 mins cleaning them they looked a lot better.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/25/ed12181b4a4c2e7f1bda78d491ccb732.jpg

I think I will try resin on water based clay scales next.


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[Atlantisblue]

The resin picked up the detail pretty good

[Ashton]

Yes, it did and the other stuff is still 'mushy' and I just tossed it out.
I put a small (teaspoon amount) of silicone, with no pigment, into test the mold.
I will pull it in the morning and see how it looks.

[Ashton]

The scale pulled well, a small bit of flashing that needs to be trimmed but that's not a big deal at all.
Today I am going to try and make scales from water based clay and them mold them. And after that see which method is better.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/26/afe6997574fb82e8f0e646355fb3f9c2.jpg



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[PearlieMae]

There are zillions of rubber flashing trimmings all over my place. They are gross, they look like big toenail trimmings...but rubber.

:eye twitch:

[Ashton]

You are completely right! They do look like toenail clippings


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[Ashton]

So I had a wild hair and wanted to expert with compact powder makeup I took an old mostly used compact I found in the back of my bathroom drawer and thought it could work.
So I scratched out the remaining little bit of powder out of the container into a small jar I have for pigments/paints.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/27/7b1232c5d7564ca9cef2df7a779c435c.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/27/880f4991b6c19dc36483cfb4edf2f462.jpg

I mixed it with some silicone to just see what would happen. It was a bit dark the first pull but it cured just fine and now I am mixing it with some other colors to get a more mystical skin color.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/27/28212d784f0e2629ce64cb8a8e6b189c.jpg

They all cured quite well and I pulled them this morning and for fun places them on my dress form. Since I haven't made a duct tape dummy yet.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/27/cb3cf350e44a520be90d187f0b3441df.jpg

I need to go back to Michele's and pick up some more resin to make more molds. And also return that other crap I bought that didn't work.


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[Ashton]

Oh sorry, here are the scales mixed with only the makeup powder http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/02/27/a2c40d378a69da9a7b4b29b005792774.jpg


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[Atlantisblue]

Glad to see the make up powder worked okay :)

[MotorCityMerman]

That could be really useful for blending areas around the waist. It would probably be much easier to get a good flesh tone than by mixing pigments.

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[PearlieMae]

Watch the curing carefully...Lots of make up has pigments and oils that can inhibit curing.

[Lily]

Watch the curing carefully...Lots of make up has pigments and oils that can inhibit curing.

*looks at dozens of bags of loose pigment eyeshadow she intends to use to color her tail, has a small panic attack*

[PearlieMae]

It should be fine. Don't stress, test!

And if some don't work, sell them on eBay!

[Ashton]

That is why I did a test run of the powder before hand. One just needs to be careful with makeups.


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[PearlieMae]

Great...keep it in mind if you have several colors. I've had issues with yellows and ultramarines.

[Ashton]

What kind of issues?


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[Ashton]

I was thinking of just using makeup powder for a few to create a blended waistline.


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[PearlieMae]

Issues of the rubber not curing! Some colors will make your silicone a gummy mess! Just always do a small test to find out.

[Ashton]

Do you mean that some Makeup powder colors make the silicone gummy?


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[Ashton]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/02/04dceb80bdb579c100ead1fee2e9ffa3.jpg
Progress :)


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[PearlieMae]

Do you mean that some Makeup powder colors make the silicone gummy?


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Yes, some pigments are incompatible, and some of the oils used in the base of the makeup can be, too. Always do tests on materials before launching into a big project!

[Ashton]

yes, small tests are key!

[Ashton]

Work in progress. I haven't made a body form yet. I will soon. I have just been pining them to my dress form. http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/04/35250cf573287201959478a5df165d48.jpg
This isn't the the official placement. I don't link the small scales everywhere so I am making a big scale mold


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[Ashton]

Plus I have only pinned to the front of the dress form. So those are all the scales I have made so far


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[Ashton]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/04/7716105944e361cd3b08f9fb59d498db.jpg
Update: looks like mermaid Granny panties!


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[Ashton]

Progress so far.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/06/fc80c897b9d9088eff2adbf83b7c490c.jpg


I have only done the front until I do a do a body double this weekend.
Ordered more silicone also, so that should arrive soon. :)

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/06/ec53c86d80ac42795377c4dc5c2779a1.jpg


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[Mermaid Wesley]

Oh wow!


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[Ashton]

I made a body double last night, put the power mesh on it, and then placed my scales.
I am about 1/3 the way done.
photos to come soon

[Ashton]

Body double
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/91a3027931fee0e68199f0ede2efc231.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/f9fab267504f793a1c9a9b95986781ba.jpg


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[Ashton]

Update:
Placing scales on the body double :)

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/3d30c19f674510994e130390e2b6f943.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/58cad57fa7b8e233937031885bb5aef0.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/7a5ebabca3616ec70ddda883ee38663f.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/13/e4e106d4a280714a2fbab3482920d13d.jpg


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[Mermaid Wesley]

*applause*


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[Ashton]

Thanks :)
I am excited that it is really coming together, now I just need to start my new fluke.
Since my last one was WAY too big/heavy.

[PearlieMae]

Cool! You're really moving along! :)

[Dancing Fish]

Gorgeous!! I love the color variations! Now I'm second-guessing my huge regular scales... This looks wonderful!

[Ashton]

the big scales are nice, but I think you need a bit of a variety.

[Ashton]

Pearlie, How did you stretch the power mesh over the body double? Did you make it tight or did you leave it a bit loose?

[PearlieMae]

I left it smooth, but loose, to give it room to stretch. The silicone will inhibit the mesh from stretching some.

[Ashton]

I left it smooth, but loose, to give it room to stretch. The silicone will inhibit the mesh from stretching some.

Ok good, that is what I did.

[Dreadful Mermaids]

This is sooo good. Awesome work. I love the scale size comb. I've been following this thread and love your progress. All of you ladies are so inspiring:blush:
:mermaid kiss:

[Ashton]

This is sooo good. Awesome work. I love the scale size comb. I've been following this thread and love your progress. All of you ladies are so inspiring:blush:
:mermaid kiss:

Aw! thanks! that means a lot to me :swoon:

[Ashton]

28234
Here is some of my color inspirations.
I love sea glass and its colors.

[Ashton]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/15/3e0070b5128ca511b2e98e3bc03f8e65.jpg
It's hot this weekend (90 degrees) so the silicone cures faster than normal! I get to do a bunch of pulls this weekend
:)


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[Theobromine]

This looks amazing! I love the scales and the color scheme you're using! I also love seaglass and blue is my favorite :) That collage you made is PERFECT.

[Ashton]

I love blue!!
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/15/70e980ce1493cb1ad354f66b6dce9668.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/15/d17c9e43c91dbdc109bfc3e439395c9a.jpg
Past the butt and to the knees.

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/15/c8948e985719f4778e0848a41012c1ae.jpg




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[Mermaid Wesley]

super pretty! when you finish it we should do a meet up to fawn over it :)

[Theobromine]

I love that!! I can't wait to see it finished!

[Dreadful Mermaids]

:swoon:*fangirls*:swoon:

[malinghi]

Wow, that looks amazing. How are you planning to make the new fluke?

[PearlieMae]

Wow! You're really progressing fast! I like the way you're doing the different sized scales all mixed together!

[Winged Mermaid]

I somehow missed the contents of this thread and saw your tumblr post first! Wow this is looking great!

[Yulia]

Your lightblues are soooo pretty! :swoon:
Your inspiration pictures match some of mine too, ;)

[Ashton]

And just to clarify: I am not copying Pearlie's designs, I am just using the technique she developed as a tool to aid in my tail construction.
I am not claiming the technique for myself, and have referenced it as her from day 1. And in using her technique and interpreting my tail in a different way than she does with her tails. Her tails are a beautiful work of art, and I can only aspire mine to be as lovely as hers one day.
It is in a way like the scale box technique, a lot of people use it, but it does not mean they all turn out the same. We all put our own spin on things. But it is alway important to reference and give credit to those who inspired you. I have my bachelors in Fine Arts and am now in Graduate school and am very aware of how important it is to give credit to others.

[Ashton]

Sorry about the rant. Pearlie is a wonderful artist and I would never copy her work, i just use her technique to help in my tail construction.
:group hug:

[PearlieMae]

:hug:

[Mermaid Galene]

This is going to be a really lovely tail, Ashton!

[Ashton]

Thank you[emoji170][emoji170]


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[Ashton]

I went to Disneyland with my sister today and here is a few neat shots I took. http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/49352e2008bd510604df3872074663b0.jpg
Outside the ariel ride!
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/f27f0c08708ea7c8840bfbceabc77166.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/110afd49ae1ccfff34ec0dcee4b10794.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/542092bfdf4858990aa295c6fe2ef3b7.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/bd0f1f39a9dc16e72d7dd5d790fa4703.jpg
Ariel has a sequin tail!
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/76085d301731990c2e93b83763c013c2.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/e5e7e54eeeb80f49ce8dd80ca45e2d55.jpg


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[Ashton]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/60b093a271ae3a03f0ca9d1fbcc8e9f2.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/4e50bcfa5591641f0f2a893dbd08f44f.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/8e80145f3bc1a964fb63d5b46481090c.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/060eaca788666ce219ed7cc4e6ef9615.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/1e3f198f4a710f11c5e6b9a33576e974.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/b76d1fae7a67c3379d128a4542167e46.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/aad81fcf08237dfa63b63d2701d61b79.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/5dc1ea7bc1a6911b86b561a709b32d26.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/cc7d5b5bf0abd014886f0c196a207bca.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/aa752888147d50bfc50abeb02b0d0442.jpg


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[Ashton]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/d9598a5df248b850e1ac01849b0e82c4.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/e6546348f3c4ef903827d015039e6a09.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/17/91b0b72fd8da796e1fc6708124f490b2.jpg


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[Yulia]

The jeweled seahorse! :jawdrop:

[Ashton]

I just thought it would be fun to share. Since everyone is all over the world and would be interested in seeing them [emoji1]


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[Mermaid Wesley]

cuteness

[Ashton]

My progress has been a bit slow- I hurt my back somehow and bending it really hurts.

But here is how it looks so far

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/22/6d2cfbdc680fba7c28da7eef43c9beaf.jpg

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/22/1656753511e0309e823311cb9ef738ca.jpg


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[CowgirlMermaid]

Looks awesome!
Love how smoothly the colors blend with eachother!

[Ashton]

Thank you! I am really working hard on that :D

[Mermaid Melanie]

Wow ! Been away for a while and was totally missing out on this awesomeness ! Beautiful work can't wait to see the final tail :D x

[Ashton]

Wow ! Been away for a while and was totally missing out on this awesomeness ! Beautiful work can't wait to see the final tail :D x

Thanks!

[Ashton]

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/24/21c70c9396f5e7b52f338a4e0ea9c03b.jpg
Sculpting a fluke!


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[Ashton]

The lines outlining the competitor monofin is not as dark as the Rapid, but I want my flukes to be able to fit both sizes.

[Ashton]

I have made enough scales! How to 'butter up my scales' as pearlie says :)
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/8096c8310fdfd3a0b2931da1b55a5111.jpg

The black strings are how the body double was hanging. I pined them down so they would not get tangled with each other.


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[Seraphina Suds]

Gorgeous color transitions!

[Mermaid Galene]

This is coming along beautifully! And, wow, that carousel!

[Ashton]

Thanks, I didn't realized how many pins I had used to pin all the scales to the body form.
I am about half way though fusing the scales to the body double. It is hard having hang and sway. But it is equally challenging to have it on a table. I wonder if next time I filled the body double up with insolation foam -rather than soft pillows, plastic bags, and pillow stuffing. If that would make a difference and make it a bit more steady.

I can not wait to be able to take it off the form and try it on!

[Ashton]

Update:
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/28/80ccb83ef92189ebe1bdd427c91550b6.jpg
Getting things done!


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[Dancing Fish]

Beautiful and inspiring! I need to get started on that duct tape dummy so I can start pinning!

[PearlieMae]

Wonderful! Double check that you have ALL the pins out before trying it on!

[Merman Arion]

Wow! Ashton, this is amazing! :clap: clap:

I'm excited to see it finished! :yay:


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[Rett]

OMG this is such a gorgeous tail! Love love love the gradient colors!!! Omg its just amazing! I'm so excited to see the fluke finished and on you! Its going to be spectacular!

[Yulia]

It's so beautiful! The colors are amaaaazing! :D

[Imogen Finnly]

Wow! Its looking reay good so far! I cannot wait to see some under water photos!!

formerly jayy

[Mermaid Bailey]

This tail is absolutely stunning so far! Can't wait to see it finished

[Ashton]

Thank you all for your wonderfully supporting comments!
I have been working on the fluke sculpt as well, and hopefully will cast it soon.

[Rett]

Thank you all for your wonderfully supporting comments!
I have been working on the fluke sculpt as well, and hopefully will cast it soon.
I NEEEEEED Pictures! :lol:;):lol:

[Keiris]

Thank you all for your wonderfully supporting comments!
I have been working on the fluke sculpt as well, and hopefully will cast it soon.
It really is stunning, Ashton! The texture and color are so intriguing. It's a real art piece!

[Ashton]

It really is stunning, Ashton! The texture and color are so intriguing. It's a real art piece!

Aw thank you!!! That really means so much to me!


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[Ashton]

I have made enough scales! How to 'butter up my scales' as pearlie says :)
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/26/8096c8310fdfd3a0b2931da1b55a5111.jpg

The black strings are how the body double was hanging. I pined them down so they would not get tangled with each other.

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Do you guys think that the big scales going down the middle (both front and back) looks too much like a seam?

I based it off of my first tail scale design
28685

[Elle]

not a seam, but it's a line that people may or may not notice. When all the other scales are here and there, the neatness from that front row can appear quite obvious.

[Ashton]

Does it look weird though?

[Mermaid Mystery]

I personally think it looks cool! It's different, and I like that!


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[Mermaid Galene]

I like the even column of scales in the center. To me it looks like a natural design, not at all like a seam. It's a sculpted line instead of a differently colored line. I like the subtlety of it.

[PearlieMae]

I have center lines on the front and back of mine. I think it looks like a fish body rather than a seam. Seams always look awkward to me, a deliberate row of scales feels organic...imho.

Looks awesome!

[Elle]

Does it look weird though?

I don't think so cos some fish have that kind of line going on anyway. I think the big question is does it look weird to you, as you're the one who is going to be wearing the tail. If you like it, leave it. and if you don't, change it.

[Rett]

I don't think so cos some fish have that kind of line going on anyway. I think the big question is does it look weird to you, as you're the one who is going to be wearing the tail. If you like it, leave it. and if you don't, change it.
Agree entirely. I think it looks natural, but if you dont like it change it. It is your tail, do what makes you happy :)

[AnnaAbyss]

Great job Ashton! Beautiful colour transition, too. :eyepop: :D

[Ashton]

Thanks everyone for helping me out :D

[Mermaid Sabie]

This is so beautiful! Great job!!!

[Froth]

What type of clay are using to sculpt your fluke? I'm looking for other options to use as opposed to monster clay since it is tough to work with

[Theobromine]

I've used both Monster Clay and Prima Plastilina to sculpt things, and while I like both, Prima Plastilina is wayyy softer and super easy to smooth. It's like butter.
http://www.dickblick.com/products/sculpture-house-prima-plastilina-clay/

[PearlieMae]

Plastilina is awesome!

[Froth]

Does that work with shell shock or...?

[Ashton]

What type of clay are using to sculpt your fluke? I'm looking for other options to use as opposed to monster clay since it is tough to work with


I am using water based clay.

[Ashton]

Saw a cute vintage poster!
I would have bought it if it wasn't crazy expensive

http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/04/16ed7ec8ab5e17c3cb263a317e37519a.jpg


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[Ashton]

Work in progress:
I tried to take a panoramic photo of the scales- it turned out a bit weird. But it at least gives you an idea of what's going on :)
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/04/24e541d690adc56c615b8db121798246.jpg


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[PearlieMae]

Why do you think it's weird? I love the color gradient!

[Dancing Fish]

That is just SO gorgeous. *sigh* You've inspired me to steal a few hours today to put another layer on my fluke. :)

[Ashton]

I meant the photo might be weird because I used the panoramic feature on my phone. It did make the tail look like it is curved up a bit- kinda like a noodle. heh.:)

[Echidna]

This tail looks Pearlie-Maeish.

Need I say more?

[Elle]

This tail looks Pearlie-Maeish.

Need I say more?

28748

[Ashton]

I was JUST wondering if anyone would want to buy tail from me. I know this one isn't finished yet; I am just curious if I had potential as a tail maker.


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[Ashton]

Update:
Front
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/06/ef25561e83ca432778642a27d0ae47ae.jpg
back
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/06/f6c04241a390967c6a7eea5223c9668f.jpg
Almost there!


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[Yulia]

I'd say yes of right now as a potential tailmaker, but if you are going to sell tails you need a unique selling point to set you apart from Pearlie.
Also I'd like to see more of the fluke. (Well you're not finished yet so)

[Mermaid Wesley]

pretty! i really need to work on mine....

[Mermaid Mystery]

you're totally a potential tail maker. I can't wait to see the finished product! and I agree with Yulia.


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[OceanWhisper]

:fallover: *dat tail tho*

[Ashton]

Yes I know it need to make sure I am different from Pearlie, and again I am not done. I suspect that I will be done within the month if not sooner. My fluke will be totally different than hers. I was just out there working on it (gotta love being covered in clay). I will post a photo of the fluke soon.

[Ashton]

Fluke work in progress!
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/04/06/84a8106a43193b592322688d83188aee.jpg


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[PearlieMae]

I think you're doing really nice work! I think our styles are different enough that you would be able to sell your tails! it's a big pond and lots of mermaids out there... Variety is the spice of life, right? Good work!

[Yulia]

Variety and competition is good, especially in the tailmaking businesses. It's cool that there's more and more people making individual scale tails. A whole new category.

[Ashton]

UPDATED:
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/11/b20ecf50c19815263513f08a8684974a.jpg
I couldn't help myself after the silicone cured and all the scales are in place!


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[Theobromine]

Aaaaaaahhhhhh so pretty!!!

[Seraphina Suds]

Ahhh!! It looks great!

[Rebekah.fish]

Aaaahhhh it's gorgeous!

[PearlieMae]

Wonderful! I did the same thing with mine! How's it fit?

[Mermaid Wesley]

so pretty! ((and i hope your back is ok!))

[Ashton]

Wonderful! I did the same thing with mine! How's it fit?

It fits well! I just need to take in under the butt area to make it a bit more tight on the bottom of my booty. :D

[Merperson Danny]

It fits well! I just need to take in under the butt area to make it a bit more tight on the bottom of my booty. :D
( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°)
couldnt resist posting the booty face :lol:

[Ashton]

Haha!

[Ashton]

And now the backside of a mermaid!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/12/829bb2857a99d16b74b9810fb22e9b3a.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/12/d7906f306797f372c198a78edf3f905f.jpg

And you can kind of see in this below photo, it is a bit loose. I'm not going to take anything away until my first swim, I think it might be suctioned to by body hopefully with out any problems.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/12/b02f2427c8ba6c8de1e0fa6d21ed6295.jpg


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[PearlieMae]

I think it'll be fine, swimming. Mine snugs up against me, the water pressure outside presses it to your body.

[Yulia]

Oh wow, it's so pretty Ashton!
Great detail and so many beautiful scales. I get lost in it! XD

[Grey Gambit]

That color gradient is really pretty! I love how it's coming together.

[Ashton]

Thanks Pearlie!
And thank you everyone else for you kind words!
Seeing the photos of me trying it on makes me feel better about the scale placement :)

My cousins came over with their baby and I had her try on my tail (for fun). Baby Mia is only 5 months old and today she was a mermaid!
28941

[Mermaid Wesley]

oh my goodnessss<3

[Keiris]

Ashton you have done such a GORGEOUS job on that! The texture and the color transitions are lovely!

[Ashton]

Thanks! I worked very hard on it :)
Now I have turned it inside out and 'brushed some goop' on it (aka 'slime coat')
:jester:

[Rett]

Amazing work!

[Dancing Fish]

So awesome!

[Ashton]

Fiberglassed the fluke mold.
It turned out OK... A few bubbles. The power went out while we were doing it and the sun had set and we kinda were in the dark (literally) so I'm a bit disappointed. I knew it would have been better it the power did go out.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/c7cca24351b1252d907afe8d8dec6c21.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/15/5bc1fd4f9e13a067a6ae6bd22039a158.jpg


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[Rett]

Aw, that's very disappointing about the power outage. Do you think the bubbles will be noticeable in the sculpted silicone? Maybe you can patch them up? Even with bubbles I know your tail is going to turn out amazing :)

[Ashton]

Yes I will be able to patch them, and I am sure it will look fine. I am just peeved.

[Rett]

Yes I will be able to patch them, and I am sure it will look fine. I am just peeved.
Okay good, I'm glad you can fix them. I would be pretty upset too! Just be glad you're not as irrational as me xD

[MermaidMyrthe]

hnngg :rollover:ITS SO PRETTYYYY

[Ashton]

Thanks!

[malinghi]

Sorry to hear about the power failure. I'm sure it's going to work out though. You're so resourceful.

[Sassenach]

Wow!! I can't get over how good this looks! Can't wait to stalk more of your progress(;

[WaterDragon]

I just read all 9 pages of this thread and can hardly wait to see what comes next! your tail is looking amazing!

[PaolaMF]

photos ??? please !!!

[Ashton]

I will post photos soon. I've been sick and haven't been able to do much.


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[PaolaMF]

nervious !!!

[Ashton]

I am going to finish my tail soon!
*gets head in the mer game*
I want it for summer and want to take it to Catalina and get some fun photos!

[malinghi]

You can do it!

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[Ashton]

Thanks! I'm working on it today!


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[IllynReaver]

Such gorgeous work!

[Ashton]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/01/ffb43a92d6a93da8810ac25485683bc5.jpg
Working on the fluke, the last one had too many bubbles in the mold so I decided to make it again.


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[Mermaid Wesley]

nice! keep it up!

[Ashton]

Thanks


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[Ashton]

Molded another fluke, waiting for the clay to dry and shrink a bit so I can pull it out. [emoji4]http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/05/8cbf73abdeb34efb066325a029feef45.jpg


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[malinghi]

Nice way to spend independence day weekend! BTW, how many layers of fiberglass did you use?

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[Ashton]

I did one layer of just pure resin for the beauty coat, then took my heat gun and used it to pop any micro bubbles. Then more resin and about 2 layers of fiberglass. I have found that you really don't need that many for a simple box mold like this. Then I put some wood (Long thin strips) in it so that it would lay flat when I flipped it. Then a final coat to smooth it all out. I will take pictures of the back so you can understand what the wood is meant to do. (It acts like a flat surface, so when I lay it mold facing up and pour, it is a level surface. Also the wood kind of acts like a spine, to keep it rigid and not wobbly)


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[malinghi]

Oh, wow, that's clever! I'd love to see the photos of that. Making my mold level and strong was a major problem I struggled with while making a mold. I also think I used way more fiberglass and resin than I needed.

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[Ashton]

Work in progress
I pulled my mold, the power mesh shows thought a bit. But I kinda like it because it goes with the tan I want in the top part of the tail.
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/06/06f8f8a85a43af6b91d85f0cdf1614b6.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/06/ea977a7a886ee0455be85bd4e8032d84.jpg


Resin Mold Back (with wood in it) and it really helps keep it rigid, level and not wobbly.


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[Ashton]

Okie dokie, so here is an update on where I am! Competitor monofin in the fluke(with drain holes), and now attaching the fluke to the torso! A few extra coats of silicone on the fluke to blend the tan color of the power mesh in.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/06/50eb80463832fcd561bfc9232f1eb393.jpg


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[Mermaid Mystery]

this is so exciting!!

[PearlieMae]

You're almost done! :yay:

[PaolaMF]

beautiful

[Ashton]

While stuff was curing I made some accessories.
They need some bedazzle though. http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/13/871d6d062379dd3aa20bf29944a4ceba.jpg


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[PearlieMae]

What fun!!!

[Ashton]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/16/96981085ae23ec8dbde3b6e272a1b26b.jpg
Almost there!


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[Theobromine]

I don't normally like pastels that much but I loooooooove your color scheme! Something about how it looks on your tail makes me think of...like a vintage mermaid sitting on a charming English seashore (I don't know how to explain it any better than that).

[Ashton]

Aw thank you!

[Ashton]

Took a few photos while the back scales were curing
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/16/37546874af69e0716062679b7358bc06.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/16/0c29ec27c3b314157e4cf9894f117630.jpg


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[PearlieMae]

Looking great!

[Dancing Fish]

Almost there!! Looking beautiful!

[Ashton]

Almost there!
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/21/a63adf17c20e77aa11b92b06f04fdb3a.jpg


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[Keiris]

Ashton! It's so textural!! It just makes me want to reach out and touch it! Very pretty!!!

[Yulia]

I had to step back a bit when I saw the last picture, the colors are so celestial! :O

[malinghi]

Whoa, you really outdid yourself! How close are you to being done?

[Mermaid Wesley]

OOOOOH I NEED TO GO FINISH MY TAIL RIGHT NOW. lol we've gotta meet up for a swim.

[PaolaMF]

wauuuh

[Ashton]

I am almost done, I want to be done within the next week or so.

[Ashton]

I am excited to be wrapping up this project, and would really love to make another one for someone else (if they were interested)

[Ashton]

today:
Doing some more top coats on the fluke to blend colors, added a few more rows of scales, ALMOST DONE!!!
I cant wait to test it!

[Mermaid Wesley]

When do i get to see it? lol

[Ashton]

Front half done!!!!

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/29/0632c13776836cbf24360430ef32bfbe.jpg

I can't wait to show it off to all my SoCal mer friends at our Catalina trip.
I am really trying to have it done by tomorrow. I am going to Catalina and I want to take it with me!


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[Mermaid Mystery]

when is the Catalina trip again? I don't know if I can make it :(

[Ashton]

The Catalina trip is at the end of August.


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[Ashton]

It's ready to test!!!
The photos came out dark - probably because I took them on my phone.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/30/5de9785fb17e09e776e42e417b6c950d.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/30/211bca7457b53c56f5ea0574c2966bc8.jpg


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[Ashton]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/30/bfdb62688b846cb5fd311627f267ec51.jpg


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[PearlieMae]

:yay:

[Calizaire]

Absolutely gorgeous!!

[Ariel-Starfish]

Wow you did an amazing job!! :cheers:

[Ashton]

Thank you everyone [emoji170][emoji170]


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[PearlieMae]

When are you getting it in the water?

[Ashton]

I am going in the water in a few hours, I want to wait till my sister gets here- I'm not going to swim in it unless someone is here with me.

[Calizaire]

I'm excited you're in Southern CA; that means there's a possibility I might actually SEE this gorgeousness in action!!! Woop!

[Ashton]

Photos! Video to come soon! http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/30/1a3cc439e60f5acb8598ee345ca18367.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/30/005d3fd2b38e072ac9f87062df9355fa.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/30/00cddf3ad602efec13bded011c8a4f29.jpg


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[Ashton]

https://vimeo.com/134991032
I hope you all enjoy my terrible first swim in my new tail video [emoji16]
I definitely have to make my waistline tighter.
What do you think?


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[Celaeno]

Looks good! How does it feel?

I'm mega-jellyfish of your pool...

[PearlieMae]

You look great!!! Congratulations!

[Mermaid Caspiana]

This is gorgeous Ashton!!!!! Pearlie style really rocks! ;)) Can't wait to see more! :)

[Seraphina Suds]

Amazing job! It really suits you! And you look so graceful in the water~

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[Ashton]

Thank you everyone for your really nice comments! I am so excited to have this done.
There are minor edits I want to make one it:
I want to clean up the edges of the fluke and make a tail bag (so that I can carry this monstrosity lol)

[malinghi]

Ashton, that tail is seriously incredible! Can't wait to see it at the Catalina trip.

And for any SoCal mers that don't know, the trip is the weekend of August 22nd. It's going to be awesome.
https://m.facebook.com/events/938902676170715

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[Calizaire]

That sounds like fun; such a beautiful island! Hubby and I were thinking of sailing to Catalina sometime in August...
That link went no where for me... :(

[Mermaid Mystery]

I want to go soooo bad but I'm starting school early this year and I seriously can't miss it :/
I want to see everyone's tails!

[PearlieMae]

So...you're now offering tails, using my method, at cost?

[PaolaMF]

wooww beautiful tail !! :)

[Ashton]

I look forward to seeing all of you soon <3

[Madison MerFaerie]

What a gorgeous tail!

[Ashton]

I know Hannah has put belts into her tails, but has anyone done that with silicone?

[Mermaid Wesley]

not yeeet ;)

[Ashton]

not yeeet ;)

Well I guess I will have to be the first to try it :crazy:

[Ashton]

I have put a belt in my tail to see if it helps with the mer-butt. I have swam with it a few times and it seems to hold up. I am bringing it to the SoCal Catalina Meet up this weekend and hopefully I will get some good input <3

[Ashton]

Took the tail to the meet up, and got some beautiful photos
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/24/3b21c001d46a3dbc616819fbe22f06a0.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/24/efcf76aa4ee69eb59d053ab7145488d2.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/24/213caa54088c4dc2a7e36facfee05c98.jpg
https://vimeo.com/137147467


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[Yulia]

:swoon:

[Mermaid Amelia Pond]

Issues of the rubber not curing! Some colors will make your silicone a gummy mess! Just always do a small test to find out.
I've experienced that too when trying to get a more vibrant turquoise

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[Mermaid Amelia Pond]

I've love this!
Beautiful colors too!

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[Ashton]

Because the silicone has taken so long to be mailed... Back order and holidays I have decided to work on more scroll work.
(Images are from my sketch book)http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/14/3cb79abac6bedbebbb124cde653b6017.jpg
For this one I was thinking sizing it about 5.5"x3"


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[mermaidenspins]

Can I ask what type of silicone did you use on the 2nd tail you made here? Was it the Dragonskin? Is that the type you are (were) waiting to have delivered? I was just curious, and I didn't see a mention in the post of the type of silicone used. And, I hear there are many! Thanks in advance!
I live in San Diego, and would love to know of any Mermaid Events since I am newer to the scene...sorry to throw that in...since you mentioned last year's Catalina trip....

[Ashton]

Can I ask what type of silicone did you use on the 2nd tail you made here? Was it the Dragonskin? Is that the type you are (were) waiting to have delivered? I was just curious, and I didn't see a mention in the post of the type of silicone used. And, I hear there are many! Thanks in advance!
I live in San Diego, and would love to know of any Mermaid Events since I am newer to the scene...sorry to throw that in...since you mentioned last year's Catalina trip....


I use dragon skin 10 med for this tail.
As for Mermaid events, if you join the OFFICIAL California Merfolk pod page you can see all upcoming events like our Catalina Trip <3
https://www.facebook.com/groups/271568969577492/

I hope this helps :)

[mermaidenspins]

Thanks for enlightening me! You made the most gorgeous tail! I have been watching tail making so much on here, I almost feel like I could do it. I think I'm going to start with a monofin and fabric first! Did the whole silicone tail underwater pictures, and I can't wait to see them (with Project Mermaids), but, I don't have a pool, and don't get to the beach enough to justify all the work and time and money at the moment! My husband has grown up in San Diego, but NEVER been to Catalina. So, we will have to go sometime! (Not necessarily following you over, just mentioning it....)

[Ashton]

Well you are more than welcome to join our group, we are really very nice, accepting, and fun to be around. :D