Merman Marinus SLOW Extended Tail Project

[Marinus Mortimer]

Finished with this side or almost. I'll be sculpting all the fins I want and after in order start adding details...39606

Time to start the other half for the dorsal.:bulldozer:
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[Mermaid_Izzy]

Indeed I grab small amounts and play with it untill it gets soft or warm then apply it to the sculpt makes it easier I used to use the microwave but I can't get it right last time it melted and I burned myself LOL

Back to work now...:bulldozer:

I do the same and I thought about sticking it in the microwave, but my stepdad said I don't think would good idea, so ouch that had to hurt...lol

I like you dorsal design btw

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[Marinus Mortimer]

I do the same and I thought about sticking it in the microwave, but my stepdad said I don't think would good idea, so ouch that had to hurt...lol

I like you dorsal design btw

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Great minds think alike. 15% done with second half of the dorsal fin soon heel fins like on the pic...39611
(Sculpt will differ from that,^ drawing...)

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Great minds think alike. 15% done with second half of the dorsal fin soon heel fins like on the pic...39611
(Sculpt will differ from that,^ drawing...)

Cool! I can't wait to see this tail finished...I thought of doing an extended tail but I working on a idea of how to make heels appear non existent without an extension so it would be easier to turn in...so far I have made one monofin that reduces the appearance of heels slightly...but I would still really like to try my hand a making an extentsion too...


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Cool! I can't wait to see this tail finished...I thought of doing an extended tail but I working on a idea of how to make heels appear non existent without an extension so it would be easier to turn in...so far I have made one monofin that reduces the appearance of heels slightly...but I would still really like to try my hand a making an extentsion too...


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It's all about testing ones method I still haven't got the lexan for my extension piece but I'm sure it will definitely work.
Here's the outline for my"heel fins" technically heelfis but seance it's extra thick plus extended these fins will be in the area where heel fins would be placed on a regular tail...39616

Edit: the reason I make the bottom of the "spukes" so thick is because I whant them to be able to stand up when cast in silicone so this shape helps the fin support it's own weight...

[The Water Phoenix]

You're so good at sculpting! :)

[Marinus Mortimer]

You're so good at sculpting! :)

Thank You so much :swoon:

[Marinus Mortimer]

So decided to draw out all my fin designs today sculpt tomorrow even though I still worked on my second half of the dorsal, any who there are the front sets of the actual pectoral fins the other one is for the sides these ones are for the front...
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Their color scheme for anyone who forgot and idea on placement... (I will tattered the fins after cast in silicone)39618

[Marinus Mortimer]

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I saw these at hobby lobby today and grabbed all the ones they had it's the first time I see they have Pearl EX I never found them till today I had a little accident with the Duo Green-Purple put it was a great chance to see how it looks.
Edit: I bought Reflex Violet #644, Duo Green-Purple #692, Micropearl #652, Citrine #630, Aztec Gold #658, Scarlet #631, Apple Green #635, Silver #663.

[PearlieMae]

Here's another resource for Pearl Ex: http://www.dickblick.com/products/jacquard-pearl-ex-pigments/

Also, for resin that doesn't stink to high heaven and cures in no time: http://www.micromark.com/cr-300-quick-cure-casting-resin-32-fl-oz,7776.html

[Marinus Mortimer]

Here's another resource for Pearl Ex: http://www.dickblick.com/products/jacquard-pearl-ex-pigments/

Also, for resin that doesn't stink to high heaven and cures in no time: http://www.micromark.com/cr-300-quick-cure-casting-resin-32-fl-oz,7776.html

Thank you so much Pearly I've always been iffy about buying stuff online but if you recommend them I'll definitely be getting some resin from there cause the one I bought stink I haven't even opened them I only smelled the lid and GOOD LORD does it stink! Thanks again!

[Marinus Mortimer]

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I also got this but forgot to mention LOL anyways I WAS going to make some molds today but not any more I'll use the resin I got in the summer when I can do it out doors I'll order some and any one else that may be reading this two follow PearlyMae's advise if in need of those materials!

[PearlieMae]

I work for Micro-Mark and highly recommend this resin. The casting craft polyester resin is good for making things that need to be super clear, like paperweights or awards, but damn! That stuff stinks, takes forever to cure, and might inhibit silicone curing.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Oh wow I did not now about the inhibition to silicone good to know thanks so much for letting me know cus it would have been a disaster!

[PearlieMae]

I said 'might', I think I read somewhere there was an issue with polyester resin.

Always do a small test, first!

[Marinus Mortimer]

Duely noted :highfive:

[Marinus Mortimer]

OMG I noticed that I've designed so many fins 8 in total, 1 dorsal, 1 heel fins, 6 different types of pectorals/hip/side fins and I still feel like drawing up some more, my goal right now is to have as much variety of "Fin Molds" as possible that way when it comes time to assemble the tail I'll be 100% sure it's what I want plus if I ever want another tail I can have different types, thinking of sculpting another fluke two.
:bulldozer:

[Marinus Mortimer]

Done with the first stage of sculpting dorsal I'll leave them like this unroll I finish shaping the rest of the fins then I'll finish adding details to the fluke which was my first sculpt then continue adding details to the rest in chronological order...
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[Marinus Mortimer]

Sculpting late tonight :bulldozer:

[Marinus Mortimer]

Too tired to sculpt past two days so been working tonight.39640

[Marinus Mortimer]

Sculpting lae again39641

[Marinus Mortimer]

I decided to redraw my tail design with my new fins just to get an idea of how I'll look and to make other color schemes (i made copies of the drawing before coloring).I may change the dorsal and heelfin colors to match the fluke just red, orange & yellow, I'm so in love with it! :swoon:
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[MerEmma]

YES. I LOVE that design, omigosh! What a tropical, bright, fishy design <3

[Marinus Mortimer]

YES. I LOVE that design, omigosh! What a tropical, bright, fishy design <3

Thanks Emma first time I drew this design I was inspired by a sunset back when I used to live in Puerto Rico

[Marinus Mortimer]

Front side.
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[Mermaid_Izzy]

Front side.
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I can't wait to go see these vibrant colors, your fluke design looks very similar to the tail from The 13th Year...


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[Marinus Mortimer]

I can't wait to go see these vibrant colors, your fluke design looks very similar to the tail from The 13th Year...


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Thanks! Yes I've noticed it resembles The Thirteenth Year's movie tail fluke I guess that's a universal shape for a manly fluke shape.

[Rett]

Your tail design is awesome! I can't wait to see it realized in silicone! :D

[Mermaid Clara]

Wow! You have such a talent for sculpting. I look forward to seeing more of your progress!


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[Mermaid Alea]

I watched a video recently with Mermaid Linden explaining that she chose that rounded shape for her fluke because fish with that type of fluke shape are fast. So you chose a fast shape! :)

[Marinus Mortimer]

I watched a video recently with Mermaid Linden explaining that she chose that rounded shape for her fluke because fish with that type of fluke shape are fast. So you chose a fast shape! :)
Thank You very much :swoon:




I watched a video recently with Mermaid Linden explaining that she chose that rounded shape for her fluke because fish with that type of fluke shape are fast. So you chose a fast shape! :)
Yes!!! That's one of the main reasons why I picked a rounded shape for the fluke, I figured with the size of the tail a little speed to help wouldn't hurt.

[Marinus Mortimer]

So yeah I couldn't help my self and made three molds just to get a feel for the plaster and it worked out great so far I'm super exited, hopefully I'll start pouring silicone soon...
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[Marinus Mortimer]

:yay:This one came right off no effort needed and the molds not dirty with clay I'm supper happy. :yay:
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[Marinus Mortimer]

Next up "test" scale mold...
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[Marinus Mortimer]

Last but not least my small side fin turned out perfect when I lifted the mold from the glass it came right off and the sculpt is stuck in place still perfect I have to admit it was a success...
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[Azurin Luna]

Those look really nice, you are so lucky your molds got out clean like that

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Those look really nice, you are so lucky your molds got out clean like that

I agree, even mine have a few pieces of clay left behind...


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Update : I destroyed my fluke sculpt because I wasn't symmetric I decided to redo it this is what's left.
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This is the new shape. Mostly the same as before...
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[Marinus Mortimer]

Thank you guys I was worried about it sticking because I didn't even put any release on the sculpt or on the surrounding areas but it came right off.

[Marinus Mortimer]

I tried to make this one like the small scale drawing I did the first time I thought of this fluke the last one had more vertical outer ridges this time I want them to be more round.



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[Mermaid Alea]

You are really good at sculpting. ;)

[Rett]

I love this version of the fluke! I personally though that the outer ridges were a bit too vertical in the last version, but you really nailed it this time. It looks amazing! Can't wait to see it casted!

[Marinus Mortimer]

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Started sculpting the fluke yet again third time's the charm. This time I will not remove the paper with the outline to insure that it is perfectly symmetric, learning from mistakes. Almost finished with all my fins, waiting to finish all of the extra fins to mold all of them at once cause last time I intended to mold just one and ended up making way too much plaster.

[Trident True]

I haven't been on here in awhile. looks good.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Ive been on an extended vacation from this project, i think it was good to lay back a while cause i was stressing too much the smallest little details (not that its a bad thing) but its set me back, because of over thinking ive destroyed my fluke sculpt at like 80% completion not once but twice and that was hard to build, not that i regret starting over because its given me the opportunity to learn and gain some experience with the whole sculpting thing. LOL I always look to the beight side of everything...

So i start again tomorrow morning, also got more clay for the tail sculpt I'm not buying any more clay I'll just finished the molds then salvage the rest of the clay to use on the tail body sculpt, so that's the plan no ill be back to work and hopefully I'll have updates on the daily basis.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Ive been on an extended vacation from this project, i think it was good to lay back a while cause i was stressing too much the smallest little details (not that its a bad thing) but its set me back, because of over thinking ive destroyed my fluke sculpt at like 80% completion not once but twice and that was hard to build, not that i regret starting over because its given me the opportunity to learn and gain some experience with the whole sculpting thing. LOL I always look to the beight side of everything...

So i start again tomorrow morning, also got more clay for the tail sculpt I'm not buying any more clay I'll just finished the molds then salvage the rest of the clay to use on the tail body sculpt, so that's the plan no ill be back to work and hopefully I'll have updates on the daily basis.
Yes I'm back baby I want to show yall all I've got done so far but I want to have a big unveiling to surprise every one. On another note in the hunt for a job because I'm going to need silicone sooner than later...

[Rett]

Eek! Can't wait to see!

[Lili]

So excited to see what you've been up to, I just got back to my tail recently too and I'm super excited about building!!

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[fishboy]

Extended tails are the dream tail! I hope I can make one someday... I've only seen a couple made successfully, and I'd love to know how it's done!

[Lili]

Extended tails are the dream tail! I hope I can make one someday... I've only seen a couple made successfully, and I'd love to know how it's done!
Honestly it's a long process but I've enjoyed making mine so far, I just got super tedious with mine because of the scale method I chose but it's so much fun and j can't wait to see the finished product you should totally go for it if you've got the time and finances!

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[Marinus Mortimer]

I dont know if I've told you guys on Mernetwork.com yet but I'm sure I did on social media any how I got my first client thanks to my sister im currently making a Mermaid tail slash dress for the girls birthday party in super happy, this has put everything else on hold because I'm getting paid plus the due date is approaching like a breakless train but I'll be Spider-Man lol any ways stay tooned because as soon as spring come lots of silicone will be cast.
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Oh and another thing I'm finally moving out of the chelter me and my family have been living in and into our ounces apartment in North Hampton MA it feels like soon things will be back on track, plus I can't cast silicone in the chelters unit because of the fumes I'll wait...

[Marinus Mortimer]

P.s. this is what I meant when I said ill.be spiderman I'd yall didn't get it...40198

[Marinus Mortimer]

Small update on the fluke I just can't hold it any longer but the fins will stay in the dark, I restarted this same fluke 2ice but this time the "ribs,bones"or whatever are the correct thickness for me so now that I have them done to fill in the gaps smooth it all down and add the final detailing, I won't add the scales because I will add them individually in the end got 10 different sizes for the same shape 4 of them are specifically for the fluke area because those are the smallest.
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It's been a while but I finally feel that feeling that makes me want to work onow this for hours let's hope it stays for a while because sculpting the tail body is up next and that sure will be lots of work!

[Marinus Mortimer]

Almost done adding thickness by Monday I'll be adding final details and molding it can't wait to be done with the help fluke already it feels like I've been doing it all winter wich is Farrelly accurate.

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[Lili]

I love it...also your clay resembles muscle matter very much lol

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Thanks Lili the clay has been mixed a couple times so it's taken on a beautiful array of colors I myself like the way it looks.

[Mermaid Tula]

It's looking absolutely fintastic!

[Lili]

I think it looks awesome! I love anatomy lol, but keep up the good work I'm excited about this tail

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[Marinus Mortimer]

I need advice im debating on ither placing the small scales on the beginning of fluke/tail now or making them separately then adding each one individually later on?

For the people who doesn't understand under will be a pic of finfolk fluke and the type of scales im refering to...
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[Mermaid_Izzy]

For my tail I am going to add them later, just because I don't want most of my tail to be individually scaled and then at the bottom they won't lift up...


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[Marinus Mortimer]

For my tail I am going to add them later, just because I don't want most of my tail to be individually scaled and then at the bottom they won't lift up...


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Thank you for your response Izzy, yes that is one of my main issues I want them "all" to be individual and lift of from each other thanks again.

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Thank you for your response Izzy, yes that is one of my main issues I want them "all" to be individual and lift of from each other thanks again.

No problem


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[Mermaid Wesley]

Still so beautiful ;-;

[Marinus Mortimer]

Still so beautiful ;-;
Thank you Wesley that means a lot!
Sculpting right now :bulldozer:

[Rett]

I think sculpting just the smallest scales onto the fluke would be best. So, using that finfolk picture for reference, I wouldnt start doing individual scales until about halfway up the size variation. I think anything more than that will be too small to pin into place.

[Marinus Mortimer]

I think sculpting just the smallest scales onto the fluke would be best. So, using that finfolk picture for reference, I wouldnt start doing individual scales until about halfway up the size variation. I think anything more than that will be too small to pin into place.
good point to consider

[Marinus Mortimer]

I've gotta admit smoothing down the fluke has been more tedious than expected but it is worth it I've got five more sections to go before I can start putting detail but I'm going to experiment on a small piece of clay just to get a feel for what texture I want.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Ive decided to take a break from fluke sculpting for 2 days, I feel that when I feel overwhelmed by the work I just need to back away before I screw things up trust that's how I destroyed 3 fluke sculpts already I got frustrated with tedious errors and didn't think rationally and destroyed them without hesitation now I learned to just beck off and work on something else when I come back I feel pumped again and even get new ideas I bet other Mers outhere especially when tailmaking have had to back off from their projects in order to recharge.

Meanwhile I focuse on sculpting a new Scales based on real fish because I think fish scales are not actually very round there more a wide (as in side to side) so I've decided to design a new scale shape based on real fish I think its the best way to go for what I want which is realism, these are my big scales they are 4 inches and a half wide these are going to be mostly centered like in the middle in the front and the back and then on the sides will be smaller scale's kind of like the look on Hannah mermaids Blue neoprene tail think it was one of her first tails the scales where painted on and all the scales in the middle were bigger than the scales on the sides they looked beautiful, it's not gonna be the same shape of skills because I'm not sculpting the same shape but it will they will be laid out somewhat alike, ill

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heres the scale so far.

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picture reference to the tail I was talking bout.

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finished scale sculpt

[Mermaid Tula]

Looks great! Im an artist, and i know how important it is to back off. Ive been in a full blown frustration attack and stepped away for a bit, came back and figured out the issue in minutes rather than hours

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[Rett]

Totally get the taking a break thing. Im a writer and its happens to me in that field as well. I will work myself up and get so frustrated, but if i just take a break and come back it becomes eons simpler.

Love those scales! They look awesome!

[Moonchild]

Hahahahaha I'm a photographer and I totally agree. Breaks are so important!
On a side note, I love the new scale design💕

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[Marinus Mortimer]

I'm glad I ain't the only one lol.
im in a bit of a hurry now withe the hole tailmaking thing because spring is a month or less away so I need to get started with the tail body sculpting I feel I won't finish all by the summer time

[Marinus Mortimer]

Loving the the way they look layered out I figured I should stop finishing each scale I start im going focuse on making numbers to later add detail when I have like 10 of them And I still think I'll mold more just to make casting easier.
Sculpting the scales from large to small I have 7 sizes in total for the tail body and 3 small sizes for fluke transition can't wait OMG!

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this is the way they look layered out :swoon:

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These are the first two I made before deciding on the build first detail later strategy

[Marinus Mortimer]

Going to start sculpting the other sizes...
i want to finish sculpting and molding all the scales before I return to the fluke.
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Those are the outlines I use to sculpt each scale on so they all come out the same, later on while in the detailing stage I'll change the shapes of the front area slightly to add individual touch once cast and on the tail.

[Rett]

Looking awesome! Cant wait to see the results!

[Marinus Mortimer]

Small update on the scale sculpting phase.
I've sculpted 66 scales being that there will be 15 scale sculpts for each size I've finished sizes 7-4 now sizes 3-1 remain 39 scales to sculpt, after that details will be added to 105 scales then mold them. After that I'll return to finish the fluke which I can't wait for... 40474

[Mermaid Wesley]

keep it up!

[CeeCeeScarlet]

Absolutely love this concept, I can't wait to see it finished!

[Marinus Mortimer]

Finished with the scales I made more than I planned for, I made 5 extra for each size. Now to finish 2 fins that shoud have been done a while ago so I'll finish them and go back to fluke cause I honestly want to have everything in molds before I return to the fluke I want no distractions! While I work on it and its bout time I made the leg double...

[Rett]

Awesome! Cant wait for more progress and more pictures ;)

[Marinus Mortimer]

And I can't wait to show y'all it's been so long already seance I started but I knew from the very beginning that this would be a long and ambitious project. Oh well there's no going back now, wrapping up some finishing details and await for the day to begin and hobby lobby to open so that I can get some plaster in order to mold these fins...

[SirenCedes]

Tail's Looking Great thus far!! cant wait to see finished product!

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Finished yet? MORE Pics!

[Marinus Mortimer]

No not finished for a while longer lol. So life happened and I haven't got the plaster for the fins yet but it's alright I got to smooth some areas and re work them can't wait to show y'all.
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[Mermaid_Izzy]

Your sculpting is still amazing! I wish I had as much patience as you have. I wanted to get my tail done quickly and so I made a few mess ups, but thankfully it's individual scaled so it wasn't hard to fix. I am still not finished assembling and it's only been 3 months since I started. So I definitely don't have the patience you do!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

It's taken me more than 3 months I think the sculpting process alone but most of that was because of me destroying and restarting my fluke a few times.
Here's and in progress pic of something new I'm trying if it looks good later I'll keep bit I honestly don't want just that flat with lines like on my previous fins so I added some wave type thing iono y'all gonna understand... 40563

[Rett]

Woah those fins look awesome!

[Karri3]

You might have mentioned this earlier in the thread (sorry if you have, I looked back over a few pages and couldn't see it)

What clay are you using? It looks like you are mixing together a few different types [emoji23]


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Woah those fins look awesome!

Thanks Rett




You might have mentioned this earlier in the thread (sorry if you have, I looked back over a few pages and couldn't see it)

What clay are you using? It looks like you are mixing together a few different types [emoji23]


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No worries I use Van aken plastisina clay its oil based so it never dries out also sulfur free
The colorfulnes is a result of changing my sculpt and re starting a couple of times I have a bad habit of destroying my sculpts when I'm unhappy with the way it looks which is prob why it's taken me this long.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Finally got the plaster to mold the fins and scales sooo happy but I'll be needing more for the dorsal but for tonight I'll only mold these 2 cause I don't have much space and in the morning I'll mold the rest...

Here's a picture of it now.
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[Marinus Mortimer]

Beautyful! :swoon: i just love how they pull right off and i dont have to clean them...
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[Marriih]

:jawdrop: That looks awesome!! So realistic!

[Marinus Mortimer]

:jawdrop: That looks awesome!! So realistic!

Thank you Marriih!


heres a pic I made to keep my self on track and show y'all how slow I am.
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[Rett]

Wow, thats a lot of fins. Are you at all concerned about drag? (Just curious). Or are you hoping that the extension will give you enough power for it to not matter?

Will your fins be textured on both sides? Or just on one?

[Marinus Mortimer]

Wow, thats a lot of fins. Are you at all concerned about drag? (Just curious). Or are you hoping that the extension will give you enough power for it to not matter?

Will your fins be textured on both sides? Or just on one?


Im sure there won't be any drag the fins aren't super long at all and they will be textured on both sides just like a fluke or dorsal would be!

[Rett]

Im sure there won't be any drag the fins aren't super long at all and they will be textured on both sides just like a fluke or dorsal would be!

Awesome! :D Can't wait to see more!

[Marinus Mortimer]

Started working on these again now that I'm done with all the front fins I'll add detail to this ones and then the dorsal but for tonight I'll just work on these two halves of my heel fin number 2 (see picture on post #343) btw I'll only be using one fin for my supposed heel fin because it will technically won't be a heel fin that's just what it's called for us merfolk put seance it's an extended tail there won't be a heel bump but still I add the heel fin lol does that make seance I mean I m sought it more for the aesthetic look of it but I'm going to make another type of fin for this same spot I'll figure out later which to cast for the tail...
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And here's a quick video of me removing the sculpt from the mold is it like this for every one? Soo easy and virtually nothing to scrape off or clean the mold exept for some cat hairs lol...

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=3k95Uze2cq8

[Rett]

What are you using to cast? I think I remember you said you were using Plastalina to mould (Really love that clay!) but I wasn't sure what your moulds were made of.

[Marinus Mortimer]

What are you using to cast? I think I remember you said you were using Plastalina to mould (Really love that clay!) but I wasn't sure what your moulds were made of.

Yes im using Van Aken Plastilina Clay for sculpting and plaster for the molds. The clay is colorful as a result of starting over a few times plus every time I bought clay I bought one of three colors or all three at once cause hobby lobby only puts out on for each color. Is it me or har everything gone up in price???

[Marinus Mortimer]

Need opinions because my head is not helping should I change my heel fin design y'all seen up there or not.

Don't tell me how I should be the one to decide I know that and in the end I will be the one to pick but I want suggestions from y'all...


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[Marriih]

You were going to put one heel fin on top, aligned with the dorsal so to speak? In your drawing I think it looks great, I don't see how changing it would make it look better.
I guess you could always copy and edit your drawing to see what else could work, if that helps.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Yes Marriih there would be just one heel fin as you say I chose this way because there will technically be no heel bump because of the extra silicone and extension dragging that area out or should I say elongating the heel bump.


I'm still making this one no matter what but I was thinking that it might be too much spikes maybe I'm overthinking it but I thought a more flow-y heel fin would look better than stiff spikes iono I'm still designing more as y'all read this.

Thanks for your response Marriih







https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170325/481ca2e6d36317ea8bc517a13e3a3dd3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170325/e9f560b1d33ac3746a7d040ba9783783.jpg




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[Mermaid Mia]

When i first saw your design the second spikey dorsal fin really stood out and i thought it was genius. I think thats something you can really do on an extended tail that is harder to place on a normal tail. Go with your heart but i hope you keep it! Really adds something extra fishy [emoji225]


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[Marinus Mortimer]

When i first saw your design the second spikey dorsal fin really stood out and i thought it was genius. I think thats something you can really do on an extended tail that is harder to place on a normal tail. Go with your heart but i hope you keep it! Really adds something extra fishy [emoji225]


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Awee thanks Mia nbs thanks a lot I've been up sculpting all night long and this heel fin grew on me and now you comment reassures me that I was right to choose it from the beginning I'm sticking to it guys but I will keep designing more just cause my company ain't gonna make no repeats...


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[jamminhippie06]

Loving the the way they look layered out I figured I should stop finishing each scale I start im going focuse on making numbers to later add detail when I have like 10 of them And I still think I'll mold more just to make casting easier.
Sculpting the scales from large to small I have 7 sizes in total for the tail body and 3 small sizes for fluke transition can't wait OMG!

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this is the way they look layered out :swoon:

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These are the first two I made before deciding on the build first detail later strategy

These scales look so cool! Yes wide scales for the win! I love them. Your tail project is amazing


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[Rett]

Cant wait for more! I personally loved the heel fin.

(I like the new profile pic btw ;) )

[Marinus Mortimer]

Cant wait for more! I personally loved the heel fin.

(I like the new profile pic btw ;) )


i can't wait to get some money and buy some plaster lol! But thanks Rett y'all helped me not destroy it cause I was having serious doubts, omg that's what's held me back my OCD if I find something wrong I just jump to the extreme and be like (screams):"Hulk Smash" and there goes weeks of work only to regret it 5 mins later lol I just want my tail to be perfect but I gotta remind myself that there's no such thing...



These scales look so cool! Yes wide scales for the win! I love them. Your tail project is amazing


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Yes thanks a lot! Btw your scales are awesome! I try to make texture like that but it's just not my cup og tea lol I'll just keep swimming...

heres a picture of my inspiration when I decided these were the type of scale I want.
40650

[Lili]

I love the original design from the beginning, keep up the good work!! This is making me want to work on my tail...if only I had time :/

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Thanks lili, I'm now figuring out the best way to add the zipper without having a split dorsal...


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[Lili]

Oh yeah...that took a while for me to figure out, but my dorsal was split into a lot of parts so it was a harder process for me I think, when I attached them, I slanted them inwards a little so that when you zip it up you can't see it! But aligning those fins in a straight line was tough, I hope that helps you a little

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Thanks a lot lili it does for a future dorsal style but with this one it's tricky because of the spikes they will always stay separated and I can't hace that! Lol


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[Lili]

Aha I see what you mean....well...that's a problem lol, hm...velcro could do it maybe, I don't know whether that would create a weird bulk though...there are those metal things people use as an alternative for buttons that snap together, I don't know just throwing ideas out there lol

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[Rett]

Will you have a base of neoprene or another material? It would be virtually impossibke to add a zipper otherwise. Silicone does not take to sewing, lol. Silicone stretches so much anyway that if the body is made of silicone you shouldnt need a zipper anyway.

[Marinus Mortimer]

I have considered Velcro but as you said it would look weird especially at the tips that are skinny, and I did consider de buttoned option but that's more for like the center of the dorsal if you know what I mean, but I'm considering making the whole dorsal detachable and caving the zipper hidden beneath


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Will you have a base of neoprene or another material? It would be virtually impossibke to add a zipper otherwise. Silicone does not take to sewing, lol. Silicone stretches so much anyway that if the body is made of silicone you shouldnt need a zipper anyway.



Yes the tail will have a double layered neoprene base for positive buoyancy as the tail will be rather thick and I don't want the extra weight to make me sink.
And your right I probably won't need the zippers if I abandon the idea of having belts of the inside to minimalize weird bending of the tail in areas like behind the knees while swimming.


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[Azurin Luna]

How about using magnetic strips in them? You should be able to hide those in the spikes and you can align them. Maybe even embed them into the silicone, so you have smooth surfaces.

Just throwing out ideas

[Marinus Mortimer]

How about using magnetic strips in them? You should be able to hide those in the spikes and you can align them. Maybe even embed them into the silicone, so you have smooth surfaces.

Just throwing out ideas


OMG that's genius Azurin I can't believe I didn't think of that thanks!


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[Aurelian]

I just spend a good twenty minutes going through this thread.
Best "wast of my time" I've ever done.:p

[Marinus Mortimer]

I just spend a good twenty minutes going through this thread.
Best "wast of my time" I've ever done.:p

I'm glad you feel that way cause them twenty mins ain't coming back


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[Marinus Mortimer]

A great friend gave me a sculpting tip that may be useful to everyone who is making a silicone tail, when sculpting the detail lines or membranes of the fin one can use the plastic from sandwich bags lay over the smooth surface of the clay the proceed to mark the indents or lines this will make the lines smoother wayyyyy smoother...


Method without the bag:https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170330/f226016658142b6d58f848a6e80807e2.jpg

And with the bag...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170330/ef74771a430a0c43aacf70d6f54bbee3.jpg

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[Marinus Mortimer]

I know I don't have the plaster yet and that I wanted to sculpt the dorsal on the tail body but I'm done with my fins and I just can't resist the urge to sculpt this bad boy https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170330/46f710b3050425fd2d92b56d629aab8a.jpg


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[Marinus Mortimer]

So as it is typical of me I went and destroyed my dorsal and altered the design in size slightly just a few things that were bugging me and to change it and have my dorsal still be symmetric I'd have to re draw the whole thing so I drew it up and now to resculpt the first side!https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170330/5d3f8751a251911f6188d04f470621fa.jpg


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[Marriih]

My first reaction was 'you did WHAT?' but then I was relieved to see you're just improving it. x) It's looking good so far!

[Marinus Mortimer]

My first reaction was 'you did WHAT?' but then I was relieved to see you're just improving it. x) It's looking good so far!

LOL yeah my OCD tends to get the best of me but not this time I promise you see the lines connecting the spikes I didn't have those marked when I first started this dorsal 3 months ago I think it was I was a bit more ignorant back then lmao so I addressed this mistake and readjusted the center making it a few inches longer I feel it looks better that way but that may just be me


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[Marriih]

I agree it does look better. :)

[Marinus Mortimer]

I agree it does look better. :)

Thanks a lot!


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[moniee]

Oh the second one does look a lot better - it's more fierce, which I love!
Also, the sandwich bag tip is genius! Loving it!

[jamminhippie06]

[QUOTE=Marinus Mortimer;274899]

Oh my goodness I have the same picture on my phone for inspiration. We should make tails together!!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

[QUOTE=Marinus Mortimer;274899]

Oh my goodness I have the same picture on my phone for inspiration. We should make tails together!!


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If your referring to my profile picture yes it totally inspired my dorsal I've had the picture for a few years on every phone I get lol it's just perfect to me I'm going to make a secondary dorsal like that one for my 2nd tail for sure. And we totally should one day I'd be lots of fun I love sculpting!



Oh the second one does look a lot better - it's more fierce, which I love!
Also, the sandwich bag tip is genius! Loving it!
Thanks I was going for wild and dangerous and my first dorsal was a bit flat and fish only flatten their dorsal sin fear and they spike them up to intimidate so I was like nah I'd rather intimidate any fish willing to come against me lol and no problem the tip was handed down to me so I thought I'd share and maybe help some one out here with the same or similar issue with the way their lines are turning out.



Here's a pic of the revamped dorsal now still lots of smoothing to be done! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170330/42a2b016f0e4247843cad1f5ac414f64.jpg



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[Rett]

Wow, that plastic bag tip is genius!

And I love the new dorsal! I agree it adds a bit of extra 'umph' to the tail :)

[Marinus Mortimer]

I know right I'm loving it


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Finally got some plaster now I won't have the fear of the sculpts getting messed up in any way I feel better once it's molded lol


https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170331/23d6f03918fc007dee5d1db2e8c1eb3a.jpg


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[Rett]

Just curious, how does the price of the plaster compare to shell shock? And how is the durability? I am thinking of trying plaster for my next tail since shell shock is pretty expensive, but I am worried about the moulds cracking or shrinking.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Personally I've never tried shell shock cause I get this plaster at my local hobby lobby store but this is net weight 8 pounds for $7.99, I wouldn't use anything else for now just because the clay comes out in one perfect piece no having to dig it out no cleaning the mold a thousand times it just peels of and none of my molds have broken yet I don't handle them like a glass doll I mean I don't throw them either but there's been a few times where I thought they were or should have been broken and held up with no cracks, also I mix a little extra plaster to make the end result stiffer. Let's see how the hold up when I move if there are no casualties I'll stick with it. Hope that helps!


And speaking of molds i maniged to finish my last fins now all that's left is dorsal scales and fluke.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170401/35a9094935ab0907b4481507341b164d.jpg


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[Rett]

How much does one 8lb bag make? Do you think that would be enough for one fluke and a scale tray? That is significantly cheaper than shell shock, haha. Also, have you used any silicone in it yet? I think I remember one mer having trouble with silicone seeping into her plaster moulds and permanently bonding to it because it was too porous. It was years ago though, and I doubt its the same plaster. Just curious if you had tested that yet.

[Marinus Mortimer]

No i have not tested it with the silicone yet. An it took one bag to mold almost all my fins and the molds are pretty thick.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170402/ac2d4f4376e44d6341c0e6f359ba5130.jpg


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[Lili]

This was my least favorite part of the process by far, I hated working with plaster how are yours so clean...clay free

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[Marinus Mortimer]

This was my least favorite part of the process by far, I hated working with plaster how are yours so clean...clay free

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To be honest Lili I don't know why they're so clean I've never had to clean then after molding cause the sculpture always peeled right off the mold I have a video on it above that's another reason I've continued use of this plaster.


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[Lili]

Ahh

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[Rett]

So you think one bag would be enough for a fluke?

[Marinus Mortimer]

So you think one bag would be enough for a fluke?


It depends on the size of the fluke and its thickness, because for me I have the top part of my fluke that is very thick and my fluke ir relatively large so I estimate that I'll need one and a half bags minimum but I could be wrong because one bag makes a substantial amount. When I make the mold of the fluke in a couple weeks I'll let you know how much I used.


But keep in mind my fluke is for my extended tail so it's especially thick so if your making a fluke for a regular tail that is not very thick one bag should be sufficient, just be sure to make the clay walls at least one inch from the sculpt all around so your not wasting much plaster in empty space!

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[Trident True]

How much does one 8lb bag make? Do you think that would be enough for one fluke and a scale tray? That is significantly cheaper than shell shock, haha. Also, have you used any silicone in it yet? I think I remember one mer having trouble with silicone seeping into her plaster moulds and permanently bonding to it because it was too porous. It was years ago though, and I doubt its the same plaster. Just curious if you had tested that yet.



Silicone will not stick to Plaster done and tested. however if you feel that it may stick you can always just apply a release agent.

The thicker you make the molds the better they will be for holding up over time and not cracking.

when it comes to Quantity it can be hard to determine. I used 2x 4KG bags on one of my flukes. Keep in mind the thicker the mold the more you will need.

when dealing with a large area it is best to mix up two buckets. (helper) and pour at the same time. its impossible to mix and pour such a large area in the time you pour your first batch, even if you have the plaster and the water already measured out and ready to go. speaking from experience.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Thanks for your input Trident True, I've been researching a method for making silicone harder I've found a few ways but I can't say for sure until I have tested these theories...


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[Rett]

You cpuld just order a harder shore of silicone to make it harder. I dont know of a method that doesnt weaken the silicone and expose it to potential crumbling.

[Marinus Mortimer]

The hardest A shore of dragon skin is A 30 and that's way too flexible with the method I found it becomes closer to a A 70 I've seen it done it did not crumble I don't know how it would any ways.


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[Rett]

Well I wish you luck then :) Ive only seen two attempt a method like that. On one the silicone got very hard and began crumbling when it was flexed. It was like old dried out rubber. The other attempt was unsuccessful and the silicone just wouldnt cure. I would be interested to see if you are able to get it to work. :)

Can I ask why you want the silicone harder?

[Marinus Mortimer]

Well I wish you luck then :) Ive only seen two attempt a method like that. On one the silicone got very hard and began crumbling when it was flexed. It was like old dried out rubber. The other attempt was unsuccessful and the silicone just wouldnt cure. I would be interested to see if you are able to get it to work. :)

Can I ask why you want the silicone harder?

Good to know thanks Rett! The reason I want it harder is only for the fluke I'm going to use lexan for my extension piece/monofin and the lexan available at home depot is one size thinner than what I'd prefer being that the thinner the lexan the more bend it'll have which is not what I'm going for I honestly dislike flowy or bendy flukes at least if the tail is for myself also I feel it's better to have a fluke that can provide effective propulsion in ocean and river currents which is what I mostly swim in, a flexible fluke provides less propulsion...


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[Rett]

Good to know thanks Rett! The reason I want it harder is only for the fluke I'm going to use lexan for my extension piece/monofin and the lexan available at home depot is one size thinner than what I'd prefer being that the thinner the lexan the more bend it'll have which is not what I'm going for I honestly dislike flowy or bendy flukes at least if the tail is for myself also I feel it's better to have a fluke that can provide effective propulsion in ocean and river currents which is what I mostly swim in, a flexible fluke provides less propulsion...


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Ah, gotcha. Well I hope you are able to figure it out. Maybe you could try a different material for the blade? Fiberglass (like the Finis Competitor) perhaps?

[Marinus Mortimer]

Small update!

Lots more work to do on my fluke sculpt but I'm almost done adding thickness to the bones after Thad smoothing everything down and then to add detail.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170405/e7408b188f9740df731be607025740e8.jpg



Little tip! I learned that legos can be used to create mold walls all one needs is tape to hold the legos in place. It's brilliant!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Ah, gotcha. Well I hope you are able to figure it out. Maybe you could try a different material for the blade? Fiberglass (like the Finis Competitor) perhaps?
Unfortunately I don't have the technology to make a functional fiberglass blade like that it's not a simple thing at all! But I've figured out how to make the silicone harder all is left to do is try it and see how it goes for me but I'm sure it'll work and if it does uff i wouldn't even need a monofin for any of my tails...


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[Mermaid Mia]

I know I'm a little late to the party but would sandwiching two sheets of the lexan together help achieve the stiffness you are looking for?


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[Marinus Mortimer]

I know I'm a little late to the party but would sandwiching two sheets of the lexan together help achieve the stiffness you are looking for?


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Yes Mia that would technically work but the sheets would shift positions slightly with movement I'd have to use the zipties to hold em together but I fear the shifting inside the fluke will cause it to look like there's something inside it.


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[Mermaid Mia]

Yes Mia that would technically work but the sheets would shift positions slightly with movement I'd have to use the zipties to hold em together but I fear the shifting inside the fluke will cause it to look like there's something inside it.


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Ok. That makes sense. Ive seen people use a specific kind of glue to fuze the sheets but i don't know what it was or how to find it. I hope your hardened silicone experiment goes well! Sounds really neat.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Ok. That makes sense. Ive seen people use a specific kind of glue to fuze the sheets but i don't know what it was or how to find it. I hope your hardened silicone experiment goes well! Sounds really neat.


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If the glue ur talking about is the one I'm thinking but can't remember the name for some reason it's no good I read a while back from PearlyMae that it odors not work it makes the lexan rigid and way more easily shattering she knows because she makes her own custom monofins for her tails she recommended once the heavy duty zip ties because it gives the two pieces space to shift which is what I don't want lol if anything I'll have to go with the double sheet method but only if the hardening method fails which I doubt.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Stocking up on clay which I'm going to need for the tail body sculpting which I will begin once I move.

40769

[Marinus Mortimer]

Started second half of the dorsal sculpt once I finish that it's all in fluke sculpting, I'll post some pictures later.


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[Rett]

Cant wait for those pics :)

[Trident True]

I have never heard of making silicones harder? now I used rubber for my fluke 60A. now as you are after a fluke that doesn't bend this would be suitable. even the 40A in the rubber would be suited. just remember rubber is more denser than silicone so just take into consideration the thickness of your fluke. i will take a photo of mine hanging over the table to show you what 60A looks like.

40897

40898

[Marinus Mortimer]

It can be made harder or "less flexible " by using already cured silicone but through a mincer and granulated then added to the silicone liquid let cure and the flexibility has changed considerably test it yourself.


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[Trident True]

It can be made harder or "less flexible " by using already cured silicone but through a mincer and granulated then added to the silicone liquid let cure and the flexibility has changed considerably test it yourself.

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oh ok, I was thinking you would add a chemical to make it harder.

[Marinus Mortimer]

No, no chemicals that's way to risky an silicone is not cheap! Beautiful fluke btw it looks a lot like the JMB FX fluke nicely done [emoji1433][emoji1433]

Also do you know how much you used to cast your fluke?



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[Trident True]

No, no chemicals that's way to risky an silicone is not cheap! Beautiful fluke btw it looks a lot like the JMB FX fluke nicely done [emoji1433][emoji1433]

Also do you know how much you used to cast your fluke?


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Thanks, I can't remember exactly how much for each half, however 1 gallon was more than enough.

[Marinus Mortimer]

One gallon brings one gallon of 1:A and one of 1:B with means one gets 2 gallons when purchasing Dragon Skin?

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[Trident True]

when you purchase a gallon of silicone you will get the silicone and the catalyst which is enough to do the entire gallon. if you mean when you add the two together you double the Quantity? the answer is no. the Catalyst does not add more volume to the silicone for eg. 50g sil 50g cat once the cat is mixed in you will only be left with the 50g of silicone. not 100gms of silicone if you know what i mean. in regards to the rubber i used when you add 1A to 1B you get more volume as they are both rubber compounds. for eg 50gms to 50gms would give me 100gms.

I only needed to order a 1 gallon unit for my fluke, that was enough to do the two halves and adhere them together. As your fluke is quite large you may need more that a 1 gallon unit.

[Marinus Mortimer]

when you purchase a gallon of silicone you will get the silicone and the catalyst which is enough to do the entire gallon. if you mean when you add the two together you double the Quantity? the answer is no. the Catalyst does not add more volume to the silicone for eg. 50g sil 50g cat once the cat is mixed in you will only be left with the 50g of silicone. not 100gms of silicone if you know what i mean. in regards to the rubber i used when you add 1A to 1B you get more volume as they are both rubber compounds. for eg 50gms to 50gms would give me 100gms.

I only needed to order a 1 gallon unit for my fluke, that was enough to do the two halves and adhere them together. As your fluke is quite large you may need more that a 1 gallon unit.

I was thinking the silicone would double lol thanks for the information, I'll probably will need at most 2 gallons of silicone for my fluke, that's without counting the filler.

(Working on smoothing down the fluke now that I'm done adding thickness.)
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170416/b9dbdd73283c40aa0555918809ef096f.jpg

Most of the silicone will be concentrated on the top area of the fluke which is 2.5 inches tall that makes it 5 inches thick once both sides are put together. The bones on the fluke are one inch thick an about 1.5 inches wide, getting thinner towards the fluke tip, in between the bones the thicknesses vary from 2 cm to 4 cm. So I think one gallon for each fluke halve sounds about good I guess I'll report back on this once I've started the casting stage.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

It's taken me all day to smooth out most of the fluke sculpt plus the rest of the night I plan on sculpting so let the coffee gods helps me have everything in molds by tomorrow at least.

I rounded the edges on the top of the fluke cause it was looking square and if it were to stay that way it would look weird later even though it will all be covered in a layer of scales it haves to be as smooth as possible.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/097bae2d9af7f2e88631cb56bb999a29.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/8089d73c510ba17263efafe950305672.jpg


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Had to restart the whole left side or other half of my dorsal because I was making one in my room and one in the table, I had to move the half the was in my room and to my surprise the were both the same side after wondering how I made such a stupid mistake I re drew the outline now to re build...

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/804299fb4688e50826b6a9431256522b.jpg


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[Trident True]

It's taken me all day to smooth out most of the fluke sculpt plus the rest of the night I plan on sculpting so let the coffee gods helps me have everything in molds by tomorrow at least.

I rounded the edges on the top of the fluke cause it was looking square and if it were to stay that way it would look weird later even though it will all be covered in a layer of scales it haves to be as smooth as possible.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/097bae2d9af7f2e88631cb56bb999a29.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170417/8089d73c510ba17263efafe950305672.jpg


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from what i've read due to your thickness, i'm thinking you may not need to make the silicone harder. There is quiet some thickness there so when adding the two halves together obviously will add in thickness. Remember that the silicone you add to adhere the halves together will also help with stiffness.

please also keep in the mind that once the fluke is completed the areas where it is most concentrated, meaning the top area will be quiet heavy. you need to think about this when you are designing you extension.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Yes I understand that out side the water the tail will be quite heavy but about 30% of the thickness in some areas will be neoprene which will help me in the water. In that area when the fluke begins the extension and monofin become one and also all of the lexan extension will be covered in a layer of neoprene which will help fill up a portion.

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Stepped on my baby cause I put it on the ground to work on the other half of the dorsal but I fixed it no problem. https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170418/eee807b101001e9c01c9749ca05e6006.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170418/25369f2747209dc1caebdaa2305fc093.jpg

Also went and got 3 more bags of plaster for molding the fluke which is big as hell...https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170418/5e0475ceb38bafd0d183e7b3539b79cf.jpg
Hopefully we'll be moving to our new home soon and I can begin to sculpt the tail I'm so itching for that part for those who are wondering and for the sake of giving out info I'll be using tinfoil to build up the thickness of the tail body then for the last inch or two use clay to get a smooth finish to it, I'm doing this because the tail will be several inches thick in some areas and I don't want to spend another hundred on clay alone when I've got to buy silicone soon so I think I can recycle the clay I've already got I've bought 16 bricks total each clay brick brings 4.5lb and cost 13$-15$ depending on color so I've roughly spent 200$-250$ on clay, most people would only need at most half of that!

[Trident True]

Yes I understand that out side the water the tail will be quite heavy but about 30% of the thickness in some areas will be neoprene which will help me in the water. In that area when the fluke begins the extension and monofin become one and also all of the lexan extension will be covered in a layer of neoprene which will help fill up a portion.

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Ok, I understand what you mean as my tail will be made similar with the neoprene in those areas. what i'm referring to is the extension itself, in the regard it will be able to hold the weight.

[Rett]

Itching for more! Cant wait to see you get started casting your amazing designs! They look awesome in clay, I cant wait to see them in silicone :D

[Marinus Mortimer]

Ok, I understand what you mean as my tail will be made similar with the neoprene in those areas. what i'm referring to is the extension itself, in the regard it will be able to hold the weight.

The extension piece will be made from lexan "polycarbonate" sheets I whent to Home Depot and tested the sheet I'm buying it flexes almost folding on itself without whitening or braking, plus the lexan would never flex in that manner in side of the tail therefore I find it highly unlikely to shatter or brake under the pressure.


Thanks Rett I'm stoked to start casting myself!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Detail :swoon: [emoji7][emoji7][emoji7]https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170419/324887e96a9c58e25a28f747f6b56b1e.jpg


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[Trident True]

The extension piece will be made from lexan "polycarbonate" sheets I whent to Home Depot and tested the sheet I'm buying it flexes almost folding on itself without whitening or braking, plus the lexan would never flex in the manner in side of the tail therefore I find it highly unlikely to shatter or brake under the pressure.


Thanks Rett I'm stoked to start casting myself!


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good to hear you have it sorted.

[Marinus Mortimer]

good to hear you have it sorted.

Yeah I've thought and planed this for a few years even while hatching you and some lady make y'all extended tails prototypes I've learned a lot from you thanks nbs...


Ready for molding first half totally in love with it ❤️ https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170419/f586a78e5c7eb5e050c1064abd14ca73.jpg


Close up.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170419/d6a079521de69ac963e29f60f9b90d6d.jpg


Done and now bout to pour the plaster but I needed to snap a pic of the cute clay wall that took me 45 minutes to carefully build around the sculpt without damage.


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[Trident True]

Tings are coming along well. its going to look epic once the entire tail is complete. :)

[Marinus Mortimer]

Tings are coming along well. its going to look epic once the entire tail is complete. :)

I know right it'll be epic I can't wait to swim in it and take many pictures to share how awesome it act is!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

I will finish the second dorsal half today so that I can focus solely on fluke sculpting and perfecting it it'll be my best creation yet I can feel it.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Also for those of y'all who haven't found out yet I'm getting a Mazu Tail! I'm getting it because I'll need something to swim with this summe while I work on my tail which won't be finished until after summers over I'm sure of that that's why I gave up on having a deadline I realize I won't slack on this but it is a very ambitious process and berry time consuming that said I decided to get a tail from her one because her tails are amazing and affordable also she has been so great to work with and has understood my needs in the design I love what she came up with inspired by an African chiclid because it'll be mostly used for river swimming so I based it of a fresh water fish [emoji226]


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalkhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170419/55ce12613aac2b370c90d40ac4158069.jpg
Edit .. the fluke and fin style are going to be different i also got a custom fluke shape so it won't be like another tail she's made previously

[Rett]

Ahhh! Cant wait to see how the mould turns out! The detail you added looks amazing!

Love the design of the Mazu tail :)

[KaylinSilvermerr]

That dorsal fin is wicked cool. I love the detail work on it.
Looking fantastic so far!

~Kaylin

[Marinus Mortimer]

Update: finished molding the dorsal sculpts, taking a break for today tomorrow diving full on to fluke sculpt frenzy!

Edit: forgot to post the pic of the second plaster dorsal mold, so here it is...
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/db840cfd80280288e8e075d34a58e951.jpg

[Marinus Mortimer]

That dorsal fin is wicked cool. I love the detail work on it.
Looking fantastic so far!

~Kaylin
Thanks Lynn ❤️��

[Khaleesi Daenerys]

I can't wait to see the whole tail completed. I'm glad you were able to fix footprint. Everything looks great so far!

[Marinus Mortimer]

I can't wait to see the whole tail completed. I'm glad you were able to fix footprint. Everything looks great so far!

Thanks Khaleesi!

Well i guess some people have been sneaking into my apartment and staling food supply's we know who it is so my mom and i have taken precautions to boobytrap the house that way we know if people came in. I tell yall this because this bitch stole my sandwich bags and the peace i was using to add detail to my sculpts, i can work without it but using that method made a great difference in the overall look of the membrane lines or what goes in between the spikes now i gotta wait to get more of those bags in order to finish my fluke. I wont post pics cause its nothing that you guys haven't seen already but this gives me more time to meticulously check and fix any imperfections and smooth everything even more so hopefully by the end of the first week in may ill have finished my fluke...


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[Lili]

Wow that's crazy, I'm so looking forward to seeing that finished fluke!!

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[Marinus Mortimer]

I may endup doing the fluke without the plastic method but id be sacrificing some smoothness in the overall results


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[Rett]

Aw thats terrible! I am so sorry! I hope you get things sorted out! :(

[Marinus Mortimer]

My mom i the best! She knew i needed the sandwich bags to sculpt and alcohol so she came home today and gave me them im super excited to start sculpting again.
Thanks god for my wonderful mom.


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalkhttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170502/49c1b7aa5657348e07742fc48f6d8eec.jpg

[Marinus Mortimer]

Got some work done [emoji736] and i wish this plastic was longer, long enough to cover my fluke but no so i gotta work in pieces.
Pictures coming soon so stay tuned for that.


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[Rett]

Cant wait to see them! :D

[Marinus Mortimer]

In the hospital sorting out my health care plan
Cant wait to get home to keep working on the fluke ❤️[emoji817][emoji1419]

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Unfortunately one of my dorsal plaster mold broke in half because i stupidly decided to move it around im currently trying to fix the problem with more plaster ive pushed in to the crack and put a lot more on top of it to ensure that i wont crack in that same place again but what im more worried about is the inside of the mold i wouldn't want to have the crack line show up on my castings to depending on how it turns out ill have to resculpt the whore left half of my dorsal which sucks but its been a learning experience
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/b862d3a259baff687d11276ba9cf9c7e.jpg


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[Lili]

I had a mold Crack before...it was my clay though but I was able to sand down the Crack...you might be able to just jam some clay in that Crack in case you get one...I don't know, sorry that happened but you're right it's a great learning experience

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[Khaleesi Daenerys]

Aw man that sucks. :( I hope it turns out alright with this fix. It seems like you've been going through a lot of bad luck recently. I hope it turns around soon. :)

[Marinus Mortimer]

I had a mold Crack before...it was my clay though but I was able to sand down the Crack...you might be able to just jam some clay in that Crack in case you get one...I don't know, sorry that happened but you're right it's a great learning experience

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Great idea Lil by 1am ill be checking to see if it's completely dry andif there is a scar on the inside ill fill it up with clay of mix a small amount of plaster and work it into the crack the sand down any imperfections that may arise.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Aw man that sucks. :( I hope it turns out alright with this fix. It seems like you've been going through a lot of bad luck recently. I hope it turns around soon. :)

Thanks Khal! Yes karma seems to be reaping some due suffering from me but ill get through it like i always do and like the reinforced plaster mold ill come out stronger in the end thanks again for the support guys!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

So the crack did show up on the inside of the mold sadly, now im thinking on weather to re-mold it or not.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/0e43333f2445290050d186b8e179c5e0.jpg

Maybe i should re-mold it because the imperfection circled in red will surely show up in silicone later on even though i doubt ill be too noticeable. For now the mold is stable ill be filling the crevices with some clay later on.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/c977ee45a3bda21be249ff7f014f6b7f.jpg
I was very careful while removing the outline i drew for this dorsal design because i might need to re sculpt the whole thing.https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/032ab07fb23478e00f7d741ac00fc62e.jpg

Also i took out the sculpture in one piece with minimal damage so im still contemplating the option of re-molding the dorsal but ill take some plaster expenses its almost a whole bag just for one side smh.
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/178873177abcbe3648a2333b25a20956.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/8631cacb8f9d2fa91ec081c12159aea8.jpg
Im torn between making a new mold or just going with this one???.


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[The Water Phoenix]

Use the one you've made :) I doubt the crack would show up that much in the silicone, you could pay special attention to that area to hide it when you paint it. Believe me, people won't notice unless they look up close.

[Trident True]

Man, don't redo it. It looks fine really, and once it's painted you won't even see it. remember fish do have imperfections even them ar't perfect.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Well i was going to keep it but it happened again i went to lift it to show my mom my recent failure and it cracked again [emoji24] ill fix it again no problem but i frear it won survive the move to our new apartment https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170503/0c18fbacc6cb594cada020f77e54eab5.jpg

It was too thin in the spike area so now i know at least 3 inches at the shallower parts which are the spikes...


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[The Water Phoenix]

Aww :( I'm sure you can find a way to fix it. When I was moulding the fluke for my tail, the tip of the fin mould broke off. I was a little irritated, but it's only small and is an easy fix. I could suggest gluing it back together although I've never tried it before though.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Aww :( I'm sure you can find a way to fix it. When I was moulding the fluke for my tail, the tip of the fin mould broke off. I was a little irritated, but it's only small and is an easy fix. I could suggest gluing it back together although I've never tried it before though.


Yes it's frustrating seeing as how much work and hours just crack and brake like cookies.

Ill be "gluing it back together with more plaster like i did for the first crack and reinforce the whore back area, next time ill use the metal fencing I've seen it done before and it worked in fortifying the mold, gotta get some wire mesh before fluke molding starts...


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[The Water Phoenix]

Be careful at what metal fencing you use because when I used chicken wire in my first scale mould, the wire inside rusted because of the moisture in the plaster and it cracked in two places before I scrapped the whole thing and started over. If it's stainless steel, then it should be fine :) Just some plaster should do the trick. :)

[Marinus Mortimer]

Thanks for the advice Phoenix I hadn't thought about that!


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[Rett]

Aw, that sucks about the plaster cracking! That was my reservation about using it for moulding. If I use it I definitely plan on using wire on the back and then potentially even going over the wire with plaster and placing a wooden rod on top for even more securing. If you can fix the mould enough for use, I would definitely suggest casting that side of the dorsal in silicone before you move. I am afraid it wouldn't make the move if it has already broken twice :(

[Lili]

Yeah plaster molds are tricky, my biggest suggestion is to just make it super thick, some people use cheesecloth for reinforcement when they lift it, I found that even without it, it was quite alright and it didn't break as long as I poured a crap ton of plaster on the thing ;)

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Aw, that sucks about the plaster cracking! That was my reservation about using it for moulding. If I use it I definitely plan on using wire on the back and then potentially even going over the wire with plaster and placing a wooden rod on top for even more securing. If you can fix the mould enough for use, I would definitely suggest casting that side of the dorsal in silicone before you move. I am afraid it wouldn't make the move if it has already broken twice :(

Yes i was planing on adding even more plaster over the metal mesh or small hole fence, i am two but unfortunately i wont be buying silicone until i am ready to cast the whole thing, so I'll probably fix this one and if it does brake on the way up the hill then ill just restart that whole half from scratch thats why i saved the paper outline without damaging it so i could recreate it and stay symmetrical.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Yeah plaster molds are tricky, my biggest suggestion is to just make it super thick, some people use cheesecloth for reinforcement when they lift it, I found that even without it, it was quite alright and it didn't break as long as I poured a crap ton of plaster on the thing ;)

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Yes i figured ill have to use double what i thought i would need for my fluke just to make sure ill use a few pounds lol


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[Trident True]

When I did my fins in plaster, one of my molds broke in half. My response was at the time. *uck im not doing this again, where's the glue. Making molds is so time consuming and pouring them with Silicone is even more consuming. As fins are an odd shape they can break its only natural with plaster, however my experience has told me to make the molds as thick as you can using what you have.

Now with my fuke I did I ended up using fiberglass. it worked extremely well however the negative to these are, if you make them thin they will only last for the duration of the pouring process as removing the poured object takes its toll on the cavity itself. also the CAVITY needs to be place on a level surface otherwise it will warp. Fiberglass resins are not cheap especially here in Australia but it done the job. if Made thicker they will last, so being fins are an odd shape fiberglassing could be a better option.

[Marinus Mortimer]

I did consider fiberglass ill have to keep in mind for my next project cause i already invested in all the plaster ill need got like 10 bags on stand by in my closet and 2 for dorsal molding, yes that last dorsal mold was too thin it cracked again and i decided to destroy it yes im sorry i lost my temper but ill use double the amount for the remolding stage that shall begin shortly but for now im focused on getting the fluke finished as smooth as possible as soon as posible well be moving soon to a more permanent housing not in a very good place but i grew up in a place where shootings happened regularly and dead body's were left cold on the ground at least once a month so this place is like peaceful living compared to my Island [emoji1202], but yeah i broke the malformed left dorsal mold into like 20 pieces and it served as a learning experience for measuring the strength of this plaster, and I've gotta say some parts i had to smash twice others broke easily so i think that making it very thick should counter the frailty of the material.


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[.MermaidSophia.]

I did consider fiberglass ill have to keep in mind for my next project cause i already invested in all the plaster ill need got like 10 bags on stand by in my closet and 2 for dorsal molding, yes that last dorsal mold was too thin it cracked again and i decided to destroy it yes im sorry i lost my temper but ill use double the amount for the remolding stage that shall begin shortly but for now im focused on getting the fluke finished as smooth as possible as soon as posible well be moving soon to a more permanent housing not in a very good place but i grew up in a place where shootings happened regularly and dead body's were left cold on the ground at least once a month so this place is like peaceful living compared to my Island [emoji1202], but yeah i broke the malformed left dorsal mold into like 20 pieces and it served as a learning experience for measuring the strength of this plaster, and I've gotta say some parts i had to smash twice others broke easily so i think that making it very thick should counter the frailty of the material.


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Hi! This thread is so cool I've learned a lot from reading it.

In my personal experience you can layer sheets of cheesecloth in the plaster to help keep it from breaking. I know someone already mentioned this but if the molds keep cracking, maybe it would help to layer some sheets in while it's still wet? I've used this method for some extremely fragile molds and it makes them 150% stronger.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Ill have to look into the cheesecloth technique as I've never tried it before if i can find some before i have to mold the fluke ill deff put it to practice thanks you guys for aways giving me great advice!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Today i finally got to sit down and work on doing some detail work on my biggest size of scales ive gotta say im happy with the result
Here is a picture of my first one,
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170505/47febe732dbd0ef6f497289718b71bba.jpg

And heres the reference picture [emoji7]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170505/fb2e469840c02c9b41cdd0a1b87f5778.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170506/4e6465a22ef227b19f7d03bdbe9cfdd3.jpg



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[LeeniusUnicorn]

It's looking awesome Mortimer. I highly suggest the layering cheesecloth method. You can find cheesecloth at the grocery store. Or any other kind of netting fabric would probably work.
Also for future info you don't have to start from scratch if your mold breaks. Plaster is pretty easy to work with and carve, you can glue it back together with plaster, then carve the plaster to match how it originally looked. [emoji178]


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[Marinus Mortimer]

It's looking awesome Mortimer. I highly suggest the layering cheesecloth method. You can find cheesecloth at the grocery store. Or any other kind of netting fabric would probably work.
Also for future info you don't have to start from scratch if your mold breaks. Plaster is pretty easy to work with and carve, you can glue it back together with plaster, then carve the plaster to match how it originally looked. [emoji178]


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Yes I've looked into it i actually had some of the medical type of cheese cloth but not enough to make a mold from it so ill have to pass by the supper market soon, I was going to do just that but seeing it brake so easily made me think i made it wrong form as early as when i mixed the plaster so i lost my temper and went all "HULK SMASH!"


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[LeeniusUnicorn]

Hehe, sometimes we just need a moment to turn into Hulks and just vent it all out. It's plaster, is cheap, it's fun too. Plus with all the other crazy stressors in your life lately it was probably very therapeutic. [emoji178]
The year after both my parents passed our toilet creaked and we had to replace it. In the process of getting rid of the old toilet we each took turns taking a sledge hammer to it. It was great, we found it to be very therapeutic.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Sorry to hear about ur folks. Yeah i would love to smash a couple toilets, it was therapeutic getting rid of some stress especially after seeing it crack multiple times ugh it was horrible i just had to [emoji23][emoji23]


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[Marinus Mortimer]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170506/8f942ccda7f9221aebfd6d9887bff6ec.jpg

Judt an image update for the people who like to see the visual progression did three more but damm its so tedious to do these!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

I also plan to do a lateral line on my tail side like real fish so ill be showing y'all the scales for that soon.







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[Lili]

Damn those scales are magnificent :O I thought my scales took forever, I think yours might be on a whole new level haha

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[Rett]

Woah! Love those scales! The dimension and details are amazing!

[Marinus Mortimer]

Woah! Love those scales! The dimension and details are amazing!


Damn those scales are magnificent :O I thought my scales took forever, I think yours might be on a whole new level haha

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:swoon: awee thanks you guys that makes this whole thing worth it.

Yes its three basic steps to get them like that first build shape second add the different sections to add dimension these could be 4 parts of three parts then add vertical lines then as horizontal lines and repeat the last step like 5 times until you get the desired detailed look that takes a while lol


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[Hydra1337]

Those scales look BA. Idk if this would work with all the details you have but maybe you could make a couple plaster molds of the scales so you can press the clay into the mold and then gently peel it out. Ages ago I saw an old thread where someone used a method like that but they used a pumpkin seed not a sculpted scale.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Those scales look BA. Idk if this would work with all the details you have but maybe you could make a couple plaster molds of the scales so you can press the clay into the mold and then gently peel it out. Ages ago I saw an old thread where someone used a method like that but they used a pumpkin seed not a sculpted scale.

Thanks :swoon: ❤️

I actually tried that with a much simpler scale design i have made from when i started and it worked but not like what i hat in mind like 14% of the detail lines where gone and those weren't as half as detailed as these ones, but if i was to do just that with a scale that was half way finished only needing the final detail layer it could work but i already have all the scale shapes made so im kinda halfway already lol [emoji23] thanks for the great advice though.


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[Hydra1337]

Bummer it didn't work out. Still, I'd pick a tedious method over a less detailed one.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Bummer it didn't work out. Still, I'd pick a tedious method over a less detailed one.

I know, yes me two i be criticizing every little aspect of my work and many times find myself starting over but its been a great learning experience i wish i could have put as much skills into my early sculpts!


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[Hydra1337]

The fact that you can sculpt that well is impressive let alone the fact that you have enough patience to do it, IMO.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Thanks alot Hydra that's really nice
Yessssss patience is key in this line of work lol

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[Trident True]

If I could make money on Patience I would be a millionaire by now. Patience is just one quality one needs in order to do most things in life. the longer one takes on a item or how much time you put into the piece will determine the overall result.

[Marinus Mortimer]

If I could make money on Patience I would be a millionaire by now. Patience is just one quality one needs in order to do most things in life. the longer one takes on a item or how much time you put into the piece will determine the overall result.

I couldn't have said it better myself! [emoji1434]


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[LeeniusUnicorn]

It's looking fantastic. [emoji178][emoji178][emoji178]


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[Khaleesi Daenerys]

Today i finally got to sit down and work on doing some detail work on my biggest size of scales ive gotta say im happy with the result
Here is a picture of my first one,
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170505/47febe732dbd0ef6f497289718b71bba.jpg

And heres the reference picture [emoji7]
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170505/fb2e469840c02c9b41cdd0a1b87f5778.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170506/4e6465a22ef227b19f7d03bdbe9cfdd3.jpg



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I love those scales very fan like. :clap::highfive:

[Lili]

The fact that you can sculpt that well is impressive let alone the fact that you have enough patience to do it, IMO.
Ditto

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Thanks guys!
So I started to place them in side the mold circle lol I'll fit as many as I can and mold them wish me luck!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170507/b6cfa19681ad873ed335fbf79279fe9e.jpg


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[Ashton]

I like the texture of you scales.

[Hydra1337]

Not that the mold shape matters much but it's refreshing to see one that's not rectangular.

[Marinus Mortimer]

Not that the mold shape matters much but it's refreshing to see one that's not rectangular.

I know right i was going to say i was making my mold box but that didn't fit lmao [emoji23] im glad i picked that up on my way home when i did!



I like the texture of you scales.
Thanks alot, its such a tedious process but it pays off in the end, especially when your as obsessed with small details like i am!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

I probably mentioned this before I will be doing the lateral line on my mermaid tail so to do that I have to sculpt the dot on the scale which when you stack them up in line becomes a lateral line already drew out on paper where I'm going to place the line obviously on the side but there's like a shape to it so depending on the fish it kind of shifts so once everything is cast the whole scale placement will be based on this line

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170507/d342ec8389ebc6ad1ec5c019a349d9a9.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170507/8aa4dcc115fbd1cf4d0be51b52a817d5.jpg


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Picture update.

The lateral line scales are the ones in the middle, i gotta say i love the individuality of these scales! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170508/390fabb54ee57c5248dc9c3eb5d3ed7c.jpg


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[Hydra1337]

Looking good.

[Mermaid_Izzy]

Picture update.

The lateral line scales are the ones in the middle, i gotta say i love the individuality of these scales! https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170508/390fabb54ee57c5248dc9c3eb5d3ed7c.jpg


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I absolutely love how they are coming along. It makes me wish that I had made wider scales.


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Im glad you guys like them as much as i do [emoji7]


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[Khaleesi Daenerys]

For some reason I feel like the wider scales will look more realistic and cohesive :thinks: that's really cool. I'm excited to see the finished product. :)

[LouLouBelle]

Those scales are incredible...

A little bit of advice on working with plaster:

Make sure you don't mix the plaster too thinly, otherwise it'll break a lot more easily.

You should have roughly two parts plaster powder to one part water. Add the water first, then sprinkle the plaster over the surface. It'll sink as it goes. Stop when you get islands of plaster starting to form and give it a quick mix. Then do the same again.

Use your hand to mix it and work all the lumps out (preferably with a glove - I'll openly admit I don't bother with one, but that's not recommended...)

You want the mixture to be noticeably thicker than water. Not too thick to pour, though. A bit like pouring cream.

Give the tub or bucket a good hard tapping to encourage the air bubbles out before pouring.

Pour it relatively slowly, again to help with air bubbles.

If you can, you want to tap the mould to get the air bubbles out after filling it. You don't want to risk collapsing the clay walls, though!

And I would definitely embed some form of cloth over the surface before it sets, as that will really help strengthen it.

The colder the water, the longer the working time before the plaster starts to set.

Then make sure you're very careful when you handle the finished product!

You can use wet/dry sandpaper to smooth over any rough bits (use it wet).

If you need to fill in any holes, cracks, etc. mix up a small amount of plaster as before. Use warm water to speed up the setting. As it starts to set and becomes more like a thin buttery consistency, use a palette knife or the like to work it into the cracks, and then wet your finger and smooth over it.

With all of this, I would strongly recommend having a practice on a small test fin first!!





Edited to add: another option to strengthen the cast would be to use plaster bandage. You can buy rolls of plaster bandage from craft stores.

Measure out strips of bandage to lay across the back of the cast, making them about three sheets thick. Cut enough to cover the back lengthways, and then a few strips to go across the width for added security.

When the cast itself is either partially or fully set, wet the bandage strips and smooth them across the surface.

If it's fully set, the bandages may peel off afterwards if you're not careful. If you're doing this while it's only partially set, just be careful not to press too hard and distort the shape of the cast underneath!

I hope at least some of that helps!

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[Marinus Mortimer]

Those scales are incredible...

A little bit of advice on working with plaster:

Make sure you don't mix the plaster too thinly, otherwise it'll break a lot more easily.

You should have roughly two parts plaster powder to one part water. Add the water first, then sprinkle the plaster over the surface. It'll sink as it goes. Stop when you get islands of plaster starting to form and give it a quick mix. Then do the same again.

Use your hand to mix it and work all the lumps out (preferably with a glove - I'll openly admit I don't bother with one, but that's not recommended...)

You want the mixture to be noticeably thicker than water. Not too thick to pour, though. A bit like pouring cream.

Give the tub or bucket a good hard tapping to encourage the air bubbles out before pouring.

Pour it relatively slowly, again to help with air bubbles.

If you can, you want to tap the mould to get the air bubbles out after filling it. You don't want to risk collapsing the clay walls, though!

And I would definitely embed some form of cloth over the surface before it sets, as that will really help strengthen it.

The colder the water, the longer the working time before the plaster starts to set.

Then make sure you're very careful when you handle the finished product!

You can use wet/dry sandpaper to smooth over any rough bits (use it wet).

If you need to fill in any holes, cracks, etc. mix up a small amount of plaster as before. Use warm water to speed up the setting. As it starts to set and becomes more like a thin buttery consistency, use a palette knife or the like to work it into the cracks, and then wet your finger and smooth over it.

With all of this, I would strongly recommend having a practice on a small test fin first!!





Edited to add: another option to strengthen the cast would be to use plaster bandage. You can buy rolls of plaster bandage from craft stores.

Measure out strips of bandage to lay across the back of the cast, making them about three sheets thick. Cut enough to cover the back lengthways, and then a few strips to go across the width for added security.

When the cast itself is either partially or fully set, wet the bandage strips and smooth them across the surface.

If it's fully set, the bandages may peel off afterwards if you're not careful. If you're doing this while it's only partially set, just be careful not to press too hard and distort the shape of the cast underneath!

I hope at least some of that helps!

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thanks so much that was very helpful I'll get the cloths

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[Lili]

Those scales are incredible...

A little bit of advice on working with plaster:

Make sure you don't mix the plaster too thinly, otherwise it'll break a lot more easily.

You should have roughly two parts plaster powder to one part water. Add the water first, then sprinkle the plaster over the surface. It'll sink as it goes. Stop when you get islands of plaster starting to form and give it a quick mix. Then do the same again.

Use your hand to mix it and work all the lumps out (preferably with a glove - I'll openly admit I don't bother with one, but that's not recommended...)

You want the mixture to be noticeably thicker than water. Not too thick to pour, though. A bit like pouring cream.

Give the tub or bucket a good hard tapping to encourage the air bubbles out before pouring.

Pour it relatively slowly, again to help with air bubbles.

If you can, you want to tap the mould to get the air bubbles out after filling it. You don't want to risk collapsing the clay walls, though!

And I would definitely embed some form of cloth over the surface before it sets, as that will really help strengthen it.

The colder the water, the longer the working time before the plaster starts to set.

Then make sure you're very careful when you handle the finished product!

You can use wet/dry sandpaper to smooth over any rough bits (use it wet).

If you need to fill in any holes, cracks, etc. mix up a small amount of plaster as before. Use warm water to speed up the setting. As it starts to set and becomes more like a thin buttery consistency, use a palette knife or the like to work it into the cracks, and then wet your finger and smooth over it.

With all of this, I would strongly recommend having a practice on a small test fin first!!





Edited to add: another option to strengthen the cast would be to use plaster bandage. You can buy rolls of plaster bandage from craft stores.

Measure out strips of bandage to lay across the back of the cast, making them about three sheets thick. Cut enough to cover the back lengthways, and then a few strips to go across the width for added security.

When the cast itself is either partially or fully set, wet the bandage strips and smooth them across the surface.

If it's fully set, the bandages may peel off afterwards if you're not careful. If you're doing this while it's only partially set, just be careful not to press too hard and distort the shape of the cast underneath!

I hope at least some of that helps!

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Wow this would've been helpful months ago! Great advice Lou!

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[Shaylee Moon]

Wow that scale sheet is going to look so gorgeous!!!!


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[Marinus Mortimer]

Wow that scale sheet is going to look so gorgeous!!!!


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Heyy Bonbon great to see u here! But no it wont be a scale sheet i just placed them together to see how they look but the tail will be with individual scales.


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