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View Full Version : Making my silicone tail! (Mermaid Izzy)



Mermaid_Izzy
08-16-2016, 11:53 AM
Welcome to this thread of me making my tail! I have done a lot of research into buying a tail, but in the end I decided I wanted to make my own. So come and join me on this journey.

I will be updating this post so you don't have to scroll through it all, but I will also be posting updates as I go along.

I am making an individually scaled with a design to resemble a rainbow trout. I am fresh water mermaid that wants something that can blend in the rivers and streams around my home and also the ocean when I get to take a beach vacation (6-7 hrs away from the closest ocean)

Really rough sketch:

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170115/71364bf8480fe136682edf59038a2918.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170115/76a8b79b9bade3d10ed1b40431e246d2.jpg


So far I have order and received/bought from the store:

Power Mesh (I order from Michael's)
Finis Shooter Monofin (I got off of MetroSwimShop's Amazon branch)
Supplies for my monofin
27 pounds of grey Van Aken clay
7 Pearl Ex pigments (694 Rose Gold, 664 Super Bronze, 655 Super Copper, 661 Antique Copper, 633 Violet, 658 Aztec Gold, ### Citrine) +More (names to come)
Duck Tape Dummy Supplies (plastic wrap and duck tape)
32lbs of Dragon Skin Silicone +an additional 16lbs
50lbs Plaster
Seperate type of clay to make my scales {sulfur free! :)} (I will not continue to use)
Krylon lacquer
VM&P Napatha
3 sets of measuring cups (1 set for plaster and the other two for part A & B silicone)
Aluminum screening (to re-enforce my molds)



Although I ordered a monofin I had a breakthrough idea for a monofin that hides your heels (Similar to the look of Mermaid Linden's and not an extended one). I still have to build it to see if it will work and if it does, I am not sure that I will share the design. It's not because I don't care about all you other guys, I just don't want my idea to be stolen and I don't want to stop you guys from coming up with creative ideas to make tails more realistic.

My monofin project:

Supplies:

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160911/824fe0a8cef9da6741ee40adedf6d4da.jpg

(Sheet of polypropylene plastic, flippers, bolts, flexseal, and t-nuts)

It is now finished and works really well!
-This is it's shape:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/f29c1a9447331e22fa204a5ec89f54e8.jpg

Fluke:
-Sketch:

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160911/e936004e10149481a4e7cff524d31f63.jpg

-Over-View:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/da8f7f3899495ebe2b519f3f6f17e9eb.jpg

-Close up on details:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/a084cb688159d4f3f57dd7d8e97200a2.jpg

-Side view:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/418be78b74e66b0fc297428dcd28c2f4.jpg

-Silcone cast:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/10b5a7a02ffdc0ac481cb593aa974465.jpg
My brother and me enjoying ourselves...lol
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/aed077144dad8fffa13cd71c1012456b.jpg

-Assembly:

(reassemblage coming)

My scales:
I need to make lots more with different sizes...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160926/884936de0500993def9f97b8e4d5f8b1.jpg

I realize I need an in between size and then I think I'll make a few sizes smaller and then more of the two middle sizes...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161115/370218996782139ffaaaa62527493aab.jpg

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161115/78e97ae30a7529ff15262b7465d8111d.jpg

-Before I took them out of the mold
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/84f611a4bc064bafe3609e46f54c1008.jpg

-A bunch later: (before painting)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/1dca5b2cdb0331a15857d0404f64cca9.jpg

-Close up:(before painting)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/db4c690ca90c9dec2b22740b53ea7269.jpg

Dorsal fin:
-I neglected to snap a picture of the sketch or sculpt (facepalm)
-Here is one mold finished and the other half way through
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161219/bb3f532fdf4ae9aed0124c950aa2f71f.jpg

Assembly:

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170315/b55975153d2fe6bfa2a8dbe00dc150a4.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170315/90c47ecd2f5a5c0a0e2165bdab06f5e9.jpg


SCHOOL IS FINALLY OUT! I have been in school since the middle of August and honestly it has been the most challenging year of my life! I have had nearly no free time and hardly ever enough to do work on my tail. I still have National History Day competition in College Park Maryland June 11th-15th, but if my tail is not finished by then I will scream.... -_-

I have my first official gig on June 17th, but I am determined to have this thing finished by the 9th.


Update:

My goal to have it finished by the 9th is halfway true as I just finished the assembling process. Tomorrow is painting day. I am prepared to get up early and work as late as possible. Tomorrow will involve a lot of coffee and rushing as I am leaving for a 6 hour trip to DC Sunday.

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170610/e5eb4e7eabc228aa9beab78e91babf03.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170610/225425ad3442e334c3500f218706ef28.jpg

oFISHally finished!!!!!!! [emoji2]

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170611/299f9486d9799ef7f6432e2a575968dc.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170611/ff379f262161102b1104acc7e486096b.jpg

DeDageraadMermaid
08-16-2016, 12:20 PM
your fluke desing looks so amazing. i can't wait to see how your tail looks when its done.

Mermaid_Izzy
08-16-2016, 12:35 PM
your fluke desing looks so amazing. i can't wait to see how your tail looks when its done.

I can't either...[emoji23]

I have to finish these first though...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160816/6a3d0153a16e5997d6fabc7e18726064.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160816/a94d84a6ec29d8360394ac6caa98cc57.jpg

and it doesn't help that school is starting back Friday...I am overwhelming busy and all I can't think about is making my tail...I close my eyes and see is tails.


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Rett
08-16-2016, 01:41 PM
Looks great so far! That fluke is actually pretty similar to one I created for a design I made for a vampire inspired tail (similar but not quite the same). I tried to have the fluke resemble the webbed wings of a bat. I am looking forward to seeing how this one works out :)

Mermaid_Izzy
08-16-2016, 02:02 PM
Looks great so far! That fluke is actually pretty similar to one I created for a design I made for a vampire inspired tail (similar but not quite the same). I tried to have the fluke resemble the webbed wings of a bat. I am looking forward to seeing how this one works out :)

Thanks....I wanted a simple fluke, but I really like the way that FinFolk's have so many veins, so I sketched this idea and then made it bigger…it was originally huge, but trimmed it down...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160816/1bd1e6fe1a106fe6fe21e5d6d60d9399.jpg


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Rett
08-17-2016, 09:20 AM
Looks great! Can't wait to see some progress! :)

Mermaid_Izzy
08-17-2016, 09:24 AM
Looks great! Can't wait to see some progress! :)

Hopefully I will be able to work on my monofin for a while tomorrow and this weekend. Then I will take it for a test swim. If all goes well, I will have a break through and then I can start working on my duck tape dummy....


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Mermaid_Izzy
08-17-2016, 05:35 PM
I've got the main supplies for my monofin! All I need are some bolts!

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160817/b54e854e09c9993fa3b0a124d4a726d1.jpg


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Mermaid_Izzy
08-19-2016, 07:06 PM
I almost cried as my dad was cutting the flippers...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160819/690a6a083ec5fd4a7ca7797b7f6c8f3b.jpg

Mermaid_Izzy
09-11-2016, 01:08 AM
The monofin is finished and works really well! I have also ordered more supplies and will order the silicone soon!


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Merman Ordep
09-11-2016, 07:20 AM
Your fluke looks so awesome :jawdrop: Can't wait for more progress :D

Mermaid_Izzy
09-11-2016, 09:35 AM
Your fluke looks so awesome :jawdrop: Can't wait for more progress :D

Thank you and I will have a progress report sometime before the end of the month!


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Mermaid_Izzy
09-13-2016, 09:08 PM
I can't wait my supplies are supposed to be in tomorrow on my birthday!


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Mermaid_Izzy
09-14-2016, 09:50 PM
I received some more supplies today! All I have left to get is the silicone, plaster, and a few odds and ends like measuring cups and maybe some more poster board...

Here are my Pearl Ex pigments and my oil based clay:

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160915/47ddfce5e0f5f6ef81595ba7029c71d3.jpg


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Hydra1337
09-15-2016, 11:19 AM
I love stalking-I mean, following tail making threads. Lol

Mermaid_Izzy
09-15-2016, 08:17 PM
I love stalking-I mean, following tail making threads. Lol

[emoji23] you may "follow" mine all you wish...


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Mermaid_Izzy
09-18-2016, 06:11 PM
Guys I finally have enough money to order my silicone! Yay!


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MerEmma
09-21-2016, 11:36 AM
Super cool! I'm excited for you :)

Mermaid_Izzy
09-25-2016, 09:49 PM
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160926/0d594d9ce69e0d87a49c8856cd007817.jpg

My scales so far!

Still a lot to go, but Yay!

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Briny Tails
09-25-2016, 10:25 PM
Dude the scale thing has tested my patience thoroughly! I'm halfway done with my scalesheet....it's like it never ends hahaha
But keep going! You got it!

Mermaid_Izzy
09-25-2016, 10:26 PM
Dude the scale thing has tested my patience thoroughly! I'm halfway done with my scalesheet....it's like it never ends hahaha
But keep going! You got it!

I am actually not doing a scale sheet, but it is just as time consuming...I am making molds for individual scales...


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Briny Tails
09-26-2016, 09:10 PM
Oh yes! Just as tedious haha Good luck cannot wait to see :)

Mermaid_Izzy
09-26-2016, 10:15 PM
Oh yes! Just as tedious haha Good luck cannot wait to see :)

I plan on making some test molds soon and ordering the silicone to do some tests...so hopefully it won't be too long...


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Mermaid_Izzy
10-29-2016, 09:21 PM
My silicone is here! And I am about to perfect my fluke design, put the finishing touches on my monofin, and make my dummy! I am about to order more clay and start on more scales, so I can start making more molds...I can't wait!!! I want to have it finished by MerMania and hopefully I will get to come!!!! Ahhhhhhhh!

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161030/a6b0884edf04cf7534482ce2ae3d5a7b.jpg

I also made a seashell bra for Halloween, but I think I will add more netting to keep it modest...lol

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161030/9b515dbf275ae40707a978391a966dab.jpg


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Mermaid_Izzy
11-14-2016, 09:02 PM
Update:
More scales finished!

I tired to order more clay for my fluke but my card was denied and I don't know why : / but I am working in getting it resolved.

I have plaster, so I can start making molds and Thanksgiving break is coming up along with Christmas break three weeks after that...I hope it doesn't take me to long to assemble the tail once I get the scales and everything poured, but I guess I can just hope for more snow days, considering we get out if a snow flake falls because of the icey backroads....http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161115/5d115a746488241fda3ff3b7f8644dbf.jpg


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WaterDragon
11-15-2016, 04:51 PM
Your scales are looking good so far :)

Mermaid_Izzy
11-15-2016, 04:52 PM
Your scales are looking good so far :)

Thanks...I just realized I need to make a few in the middle of my large and second largest because they got a little small, but I think I am going to start making some molds!


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Mermaid_Izzy
11-26-2016, 09:31 PM
Update!
My fluke is almost finished, all I have to do after I fill it in is add a few more details!
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161127/f45e99c00ba2234b47cf62a51b69e056.jpg


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Mermaid_Izzy
11-27-2016, 01:06 AM
My fluke is almost...except for the details...it's not lopsided either....it's just twisted on the background http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161127/c9212efc43b4a00de287949fae410501.jpg


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AnnaAbyss
11-27-2016, 01:10 AM
Really nice fluke :D

Hydra1337
11-27-2016, 08:44 AM
I can't wait to see it cast in silicone.

Mermaid_Izzy
11-27-2016, 10:46 AM
Really nice fluke :D


I can't wait to see it cast in silicone.

Thanks guys...and it shouldn't be too much longer now...I just have to finished a few details on it and then pick up some more plaster and we'll be on our way to silicone!!!!


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Mermaid_Izzy
12-03-2016, 11:50 PM
My fluke is basically finished....there are a few more spots that I am going to smooth out before I pour the mold. Considering I didn't use any tools to sculpt it, my fingers are sore and it's a bit uneven, but I think it gives it a more natural look....

Over-View:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/da8f7f3899495ebe2b519f3f6f17e9eb.jpg

Close up on details:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/a084cb688159d4f3f57dd7d8e97200a2.jpg

Side view:
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161204/418be78b74e66b0fc297428dcd28c2f4.jpg


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Hydra1337
12-04-2016, 08:26 AM
It definitely feels more organic since you didn't use tools or anything. I like it.

mermaid.duniya
12-04-2016, 12:08 PM
Looks like fun this is so cool that your making a tail!! wanna be friends :)

Mermaid_Izzy
12-04-2016, 04:20 PM
Looks like fun this is so cool that your making a tail!! wanna be friends :)

Sure....and thanks!


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Mermaid_Izzy
12-11-2016, 11:42 AM
Update: my fluke mold is finished and I tried my hand at silicone with some test scales! Yay!

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161211/e28ea4f86c07265f962f45db73b03ed6.jpg


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Mer Coralia
12-15-2016, 01:34 AM
That fluke sculpt looks awesome! <3

Mermaid_Izzy
12-15-2016, 06:50 AM
My fluke is poured and cure, along with another batch of scales. I have to wait until I get back to my mamaw's to de-mold them all…It should be Friday considering I have exams all this week and tomorrow is my last day...


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Mermaid_Izzy
12-16-2016, 06:49 PM
I finally was able to get half of my fluke out!!!! AHHHHHHHH!!! (it's a little dirty, but am going to clean it up…)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161216/e6a44587440bbc37d414bc4aea428905.jpg


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MermaidJeanette
12-16-2016, 07:31 PM
I was planing to do individual scale to for my tail two.

Mermaid_Izzy
12-17-2016, 03:33 PM
I was planing to do individual scale to for my tail two.

Cool! I know a lot of people do scale sheets, I just feel like it would easier for me to make an individual scaled one....plus the molds tail up less room...


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Mermaid_Izzy
12-17-2016, 03:38 PM
Non-related to my tail itself, but my Mamaw just gave me some Mer bling!

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161217/5191fde8b1ba733f6d692a5c4906a454.jpg

A real starfish hair pin (it is a little stinky)
A set of starfish earrings
And a starfish ring...(which I think is pretty cute)
(i think she went a little starfish crazy)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161217/c15a96fe6af1ed2862b431187c83cae0.jpg

My favorite would be hairclip if it didn't smell like the shrimp pellets I feed my bumble bee cat fish...lol


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MermaidJeanette
12-17-2016, 05:16 PM
They are sooo pretty! I love the starfish look.

Mermaid_Izzy
12-17-2016, 05:19 PM
They are sooo pretty! I love the starfish look.

Thank you...I am more of a seaturtle gal myself, but starfish, stingrays, jelly fish, and seahorses all follow soon after...


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Miyu
12-18-2016, 09:54 PM
Dat fluke tho :swoon:

Mermaid_Izzy
12-18-2016, 10:32 PM
Dat fluke tho :swoon:

Thanks...[emoji4]


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Mermaid Clara
12-18-2016, 11:12 PM
Non-related to my tail itself, but my Mamaw just gave me some Mer bling!

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161217/5191fde8b1ba733f6d692a5c4906a454.jpg

A real starfish hair pin (it is a little stinky)
A set of starfish earrings
And a starfish ring...(which I think is pretty cute)
(i think she went a little starfish crazy)
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161217/c15a96fe6af1ed2862b431187c83cae0.jpg

My favorite would be hairclip if it didn't smell like the shrimp pellets I feed my bumble bee cat fish...lol


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My mom got me the same earrings!


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Mermaid_Izzy
12-19-2016, 12:45 AM
My mom got me the same earrings!


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So cool! (I think my Mamaw got them all off wish.com…lol)



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Mermaid_Izzy
12-21-2016, 06:48 PM
Progress!!! Ahhhhhhh!!!! So excited....(it's getting painted later...[emoji6])
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161221/a9c49adca33b5b2f0620aa2b260a1589.jpg


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Mermaid_Izzy
12-21-2016, 11:57 PM
Video update...

https://vimeo.com/196681309

Excuse the noise in the background (It's my mom and mamaw)

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Mermaid_Izzy
12-28-2016, 12:21 AM
My fluke is being put together!!! I had books on it but I took them off after the first few hours...
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161228/7aaedd79e8a89d7216926f4e3b0d544b.jpg


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Mermaid_Izzy
12-29-2016, 01:30 AM
I assembled my fluke and tried it on, where my mom got this good shot. I am glad I tired it on and shortly afterwards the bolts on my monofins ripped out of my right flipper, I now realise I needed an extra bolt in the back. And I added a few jumbo zipties to help hold my flippers down if they were to pull loose after I assemble my tail...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20161229/b6d56a07afd423dbee74cc52069d3c9f.jpg


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Mermaid_Izzy
01-01-2017, 09:46 PM
Okay so I am officially putting my tail making on halt...I knew it was a long shot to get it finished by MerMania anyways.

I have decided to use a different monofin I think, after trying it on a few times I realise I want to improve my design before I seal it in a tail. I am deciding between a Finis Wave or Rapid. I have a Shooter that I have never used, but I don't like the way the foot pockets rub my feet even with thick socks when I tried it on.

My fluke is huge because I couldn't make it any smaller with the proportions I wanted and it still be able to fit around my monofin (it's a little thick).

Do you guys have a recommendation on whether I should use a Wave or a Rapid?


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Mermaid Jaffa
01-01-2017, 10:44 PM
This? Its slightly smaller than an adult merfin. I love mine! I was doing zoomies in the local pool last week!
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Comfortable-TPE-Mermaid-Swim-Fins-Feet-Flipper-Swimming-Diving-Tail-For-Adult-/192000110144?var&hash=item2cb4192e40%3Am%3Am28HllFF0I2JVZviR9F5xXw

Rett
01-02-2017, 07:42 PM
I would personally go with something a little bit more durable for your tail. The buckles on the Rapid (and I believe the Wave too?) are known to break fairly easily, and I have heard of blades cracking pretty easily over time too since they are plastic blades. I personally would recommend something like the Mahina Merfin. I would also look into getting a pair of Neoprene socks for your Shooter. They are much thicker and offer far more protection than regular thick socks. Also, try swimming in it. It will fit slightly differently when underwater and when you are kicking. I can't wait to see what you decide :)

Mermaid_Izzy
01-02-2017, 07:46 PM
This? Its slightly smaller than an adult merfin. I love mine! I was doing zoomies in the local pool last week!
http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/Comfortable-TPE-Mermaid-Swim-Fins-Feet-Flipper-Swimming-Diving-Tail-For-Adult-/192000110144?var&hash=item2cb4192e40%3Am%3Am28HllFF0I2JVZviR9F5xXw

Is the Merfin more of plastic also?


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Mermaid_Izzy
01-02-2017, 08:00 PM
I would personally go with something a little bit more durable for your tail. The buckles on the Rapid (and I believe the Wave too?) are known to break fairly easily, and I have heard of blades cracking pretty easily over time too since they are plastic blades. I personally would recommend something like the Mahina Merfin. I would also look into getting a pair of Neoprene socks for your Shooter. They are much thicker and offer far more protection than regular thick socks. Also, try swimming in it. It will fit slightly differently when underwater and when you are kicking. I can't wait to see what you decide :)

Thanks! I knew that MerNation uses the rapid or wave one in their cheaper tails, but I didn't think of it breaking from being plastic.

I am slighty worried about the drag of my fluke...I think it is as big if not bigger than the fluke on Raina's "She creatue" tail (I think that's right?lol) that Raven made. I know Rania said on one of her videos, that normally a fluke that big would have a competitor in it, but I don't have the funding to get one nor the need because I would be mostly swimming in a smaller inground pool, not open water.

I think I will just order a pair of booties and try and find the time to go for a test swim at an indoor pool (it's 45 mins. away) with my Shooter..


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Mermaid Jaffa
01-04-2017, 12:50 AM
The Merfins are made of recycled rubber.

Mermaid_Izzy
01-04-2017, 07:10 AM
The Merfins are made of recycled rubber.

Thanks!



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Rett
01-05-2017, 12:06 PM
Yes the Mahinas are rubber and, from what ive heard, have propulsion somewhere in between a plastic bladed fin (like the wave and rapid) and a fiberglass fin (like the competitor). Definitely try some thick neoprene bottles and see if what you've got will work first though. I've only ever heard good things about the shooter.

Mermaid_Izzy
01-05-2017, 03:27 PM
Yes the Mahinas are rubber and, from what ive heard, have propulsion somewhere in between a plastic bladed fin (like the wave and rapid) and a fiberglass fin (like the competitor). Definitely try some thick neoprene bottles and see if what you've got will work first though. I've only ever heard good things about the shooter.

I am going out tomorrow or Saturday if it's not too cold and we don't get snowed in...



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Mer Coralia
01-05-2017, 09:32 PM
I confused the wave for the foil so I was like whhyyyyyy, but then I just looked at all the Finis fins and that makes more sense.

I'd go with the shooter or even trainer, but in my preference I'd prefer a stronger fin. I know the shooter is good in mermaid tails; Finfolk uses them in their Mythic tails. Mernation does use both the wave and rapid as options for their Genesis tails, just not sure of the difference since it's a little hard to tell in videos. Not sure if you'd be able to ask them for information on the differences between two in tails but you could try.

Hopefully it's not too cold for you.

Wouldn't the Mahina be tough to get the silicone to stick to it though?

Mermaid_Izzy
01-05-2017, 09:38 PM
I confused the wave for the foil so I was like whhyyyyyy, but then I just looked at all the Finis fins and that makes more sense.

I'd go with the shooter or even trainer, but in my preference I'd prefer a stronger fin. I know the shooter is good in mermaid tails; Finfolk uses them in their Mythic tails. Mernation does use both the wave and rapid as options for their Genesis tails, just not sure of the difference since it's a little hard to tell in videos. Not sure if you'd be able to ask them for information on the differences between two in tails but you could try.

Hopefully it's not too cold for you.

Wouldn't the Mahina be tough to get the silicone to stick to it though?

Thanks for the info...I don't think I would go with Mahina...it wasn't on my list....I am going out most likely Saturday to get some neoprene booties and try them with my Shooter...I will probably put the Shooter in my tail after I cut out mine and make a new pouch for the monofin...

I think I have eliminated the Rapid and Wave because Rhett reminded me of the fact that they have been heard of breaking...

My only concern is my fluke is huge and the Shooter will be a little small...if I ever make one this big again I will be putting a competitor in....lol

Oh and I am still trying to formulate a way to hide the big bars (or whatever they are called) on the top of the Shooter...




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Mermaid Fenicia
01-06-2017, 02:55 PM
I confused the wave for the foil so I was like whhyyyyyy, but then I just looked at all the Finis fins and that makes more sense.

I'd go with the shooter or even trainer, but in my preference I'd prefer a stronger fin. I know the shooter is good in mermaid tails; Finfolk uses them in their Mythic tails. Mernation does use both the wave and rapid as options for their Genesis tails, just not sure of the difference since it's a little hard to tell in videos. Not sure if you'd be able to ask them for information on the differences between two in tails but you could try.

Hopefully it's not too cold for you.

Wouldn't the Mahina be tough to get the silicone to stick to it though?
Here you can see the different between a Rapid (black) and a Wave (blue) it's mostly the (foot-)size that makes the different.
3991039911

Mermaid_Izzy
01-06-2017, 03:21 PM
Thanks!


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Mermaid_Izzy
01-07-2017, 06:39 PM
Big news!

So first of all I my project is on hault at the moment...I will not be finishing it by MerMainia.

Second, I have neoprene socks now and will be using my Shooter monofin inside the tail

Last, I think I am majorly changing my color scheme to that of a rainbow trout...

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170107/1e713cf0ff02ecb837189c3e70c03442.jpg

I am not much of a pink or yellow girl but I love the suttle pink in the yellow as it fades from blue/green to a lighter blue and then to yellow...

And the more tails with spots I see the more I fall in love. I never thought I would like spots, but now they are so adorable, just as I never thought I was would like dorsal fins...[emoji23]



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Mermaid_Izzy
02-26-2017, 04:50 PM
:bulldozer:
So since MerMainia I hadn't had a lot of progress, but this weekend I have made a bunch!

My tail is still three hundred colors, but I guess that happens when you change your color scheme....[emoji23].

Plus my mamaw poured scales when I was gone and she was afraid to pigment them.
I also had to redo a few section of scales because the were really messed up.

Here are my progress pics:

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/6d358364d14a76bb99ddcd041180ed0b.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170226/e8a9695e5ff24eae47617852d00d8221.jpg




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Mermaid_Izzy
05-29-2017, 12:34 AM
I have officially applied all the scales that I could on my duck tape dummy. Now all I need to do it connect the fluke, finished scaling it, and give it a paint job! So close, yet so far!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170529/eb6d7083cba7303d967b392d286ea5fc.jpg


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Mermaid_Izzy
06-09-2017, 11:18 PM
Assembly is completely finished!!!!!

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170610/79a2ea39da98e9ae6c63b4f06ad1c83f.jpg

https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170610/a53a411f03c1558d8c5b15afdf97f47d.jpg

Painting starts in the morning 7:00am sharp EST!!!!!!!!

It's almost finished you guys!!!!!!


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Mermaid_Izzy
06-11-2017, 12:30 AM
IT'S FINALLY FINISHED!!!!!!!! AHHHHHHH!!!!
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170611/a82eaa3c8d04a067b4b039328d395978.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170611/09352fb619a694195c5ff6e5d5fe7d51.jpg
https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170611/c5960cd27c6fc88ec3c65632feb9c247.jpg

Pictures of me in the tail coming soon! And hopefully mom will take me out for a photoshoot when I get back from DC. And I will have my first gig the 17th AND I GET TO TAKE IT WITH ME TO CLEARWATER FLORIDA!!!! [emoji38][emoji38][emoji38][emoji38]


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Sea~Phoenix Savannah
06-11-2017, 12:47 AM
Oh my gosh Izzy! It looks so good! Have fun and good luck on the photoshoot and gig!

Mermaid_Izzy
06-11-2017, 12:51 AM
Oh my gosh Izzy! It looks so good! Have fun and good luck on the photoshoot and gig!

Thank you! And it was worth the whole 8 hours in the sun all day painting it. [emoji1]


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Sea~Phoenix Savannah
06-11-2017, 01:09 AM
Of course! Wow, 8 hours? That's hardcore :D

Mermaid_Izzy
06-11-2017, 07:14 AM
Of course! Wow, 8 hours? That's hardcore :D

Yep. I had to get it finished. I would have only had one day to finish it once infer back from my trip. I also ended up packing and getting my things ready for my trip. I didn't go to sleep until 1am, but at least I didn't have to get up until 7am to leave.


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Slim
06-11-2017, 10:37 AM
It's awesome

Hydra1337
06-11-2017, 12:07 PM
Wow I love the paint job!

Neerai
06-11-2017, 12:38 PM
Woooow! I love the painting! So cool!!

Mermaid_Izzy
06-11-2017, 01:17 PM
Thanks guys!


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moniee
06-29-2017, 09:04 AM
Holy shhhhhh it looks amazing!! Freshwater mermaid high five!!

Mermaid_Izzy
06-29-2017, 09:29 AM
Holy shhhhhh it looks amazing!! Freshwater mermaid high five!!

Thank you!



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Mermaid_Izzy
06-29-2017, 09:31 AM
After a few swims it needs some touching up, but over all, it's still looking nice!

I'm not sure if I'll ever go on another Smooth-On silicone tail making adventure, unless I get a better work space, make more molds, or test out a scale sheet.

I am honestly thinking and aquarium silicone tail next. That will be lion fish inspired. What do you guys think?


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moniee
06-30-2017, 05:54 AM
I would defo recommend the aqua silicone, that is what I use out of the same reason - no space. I basically made my tail in the bathroom, kitchen floor, the garden or in the toilet in a shared house with the landlady's kids running around so I couldn't even leave my stuff out. It worked for me so I couldn't be happier and would probably use this method again in the future. Do you have any videos swimming by the way? Would love to see!

Mermaid_Izzy
06-30-2017, 08:54 AM
I have two, here is the link to them on my Instagram.

https://instagram.com/p/BVd8KsUlYsw/

The two videos are on the same post and let's say I was in a small crowded pool at a hotel while I was at a national competition. So I got a few weird looks, but my 3 friends were there with me to support me.

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The Harlem Mermaid
07-06-2017, 04:14 AM
Love the fluke shape and design

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Mermaid_Izzy
07-06-2017, 10:43 AM
Love the fluke shape and design

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Thanks! [emoji4]


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