Julz's First Latex Tail attempt...

[Mermaid Julz]

ok, Here we go on my first Tail attempt in Latex... well, my first tail ever to be exact.... I am really pumped about doing this. I've been looking over the tutorials that i have found, listing out what supplies I need, and and I am wanting to start so bad.

If anyone has Advice/ideas to pass to me... please do! I am a total newb to this.. and as well all know, a learning process.

tomorrow I start picking up the supplies I can, and order the things i cannot, or wait till i can afford them


this is my first sketch of my tail... its a bit rough, but it get my general idea across.

[Marlin]

the colors and design look great! Can't wait to see this progress :D Good luck!

[Miyu]

I love the colours! ^-^

[AptaMer]

Looks good Julz. Are you going to mold it with liquid latex, or make it by gluing sheet latex cut from a pattern?

[Mermaid Julz]

Gluing... But i am making a dummy so i can position everytihng right on it.... my friends are hitting me up with saran wrap and ducktape tomorrow.... but i am going to me making a scalebox and also it will have some neoprene, which i hopefully can order online tomorrow if i have the money.

[Shivice]

This thread should help you out : http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?1788-Fantasea-FX-s-first-casted-latex-tail!/page9

[jazz2453]

Congratulations! Good luck:)

[Mermaid Julz]

@ Shivace : Thats one of the best ones I found, and i am using it as much as possible. Its bookmarked for easy reference..... along with a few others.

@ Jazz: Girl, thanks so much for all the support! Not just for this, but for other things.... You are so talented in so many ways. Your tail came out sooo well...I will keep you posted, and will be putting pics here and on FB for everyone to see. Tell that awesome mom of yours hello for me!

As for today, its out to shop to pick up supplies and try an experiment with the natural clay in my back yard....

the experiment will consist of the red clay soil we have here... and some canola/vegitable oil. I just wanna see how it would work.... if so, I got lots of clay for free!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, went shopping today.... got a few things..... but no hole punch that was the size i wanted and just round! but thought i would share the pics of what i got.... and get your opinions....

since i don't want to clutter here to much with pics of supplies, here is a link to the folder I am keeping them in on photobucket...

http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/library/Tail%20stuff

as you can see, most of the basics.... I not sure about the clay, but its all this poor girl can afford... just know I got to keep it really moist all the time... and since i couldn't find a punch, i found something to trace.... the lid from my mousse can. Its exactly 1.5 inches.... talk about adapt and overcome.... But this will work till i can find a hole punch. Hopefully sometime tomorrow. Now when i bought the saran wrap and the duck tape, the lady at the checkout looked at me funny..... she asked witch some curiousity what these were for.... I told her i was making a Mermaid tail..... she said, " Child, you better go back there and get some paint... a saran wrap tail is see through, and not sure how it would work in the water"

Anyways... here is the update... if you got any advice on the clay... let me know....

Due to time constraints from running around .... build process will not start till Tuesday...

[Mermaid Cascada]

I'm so excited for you!

[Mermaid Julz]

thanks Cascada.... I just finished making a video to help people with supplies.... You and others can check it out.... please feel free to comment on it and give it a thumbs up or down. The more imput i get, the better i can make the next video.

Here it is...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kX2b2Xc0-us&feature=youtu.be

[Mermaid Julz]

Well today we got work done on my duck tape dummy of my legs. I went over to my friend Becca's house since i knew i would need an extra set of hands.... we shot a video for it which you can find on Youtube in my Mermaid Tail Series on my channel.


http://youtu.be/RIQqLhVwHxU

Please, if you watch the videos, I ask that you please rate them over on Youtube, and add a comment if you have suggestions.

I hope you like the video. Still pictures to come, i just need to take a few.

[Jessica]

Hi julz! I don't know how I didn't see this thread before...anyway..this is exciting! I'm working on a silicone tail right now and I love watching other people create tails.

If you're using neoprene as a base for the latex, you don't really need a duct tape body form. You can just stuff the neoprene tail after you sew it together. However, the body form can help prevent lumps if you put it inside the neoprene. Just don't overstuff it or it will be very difficult to do seams.

I haven't worked with latex before, but if you have any questions I'll do my best to help! The process is very similar for silicone.

By the way.....I'm not far from you! I live in nc too. :)

[Mermaid Julz]

@ Jessica : Hey, its ok.... i'm low key and fly under the radar alot. As for the leg dummy, its actually useful for alot more. For one, i am going to be filling the inside with cans of spray foam, and then i will be coating the outside with fiberglass. this is more for me to have a place to put things together, and so i don't have to keep testing how something fits me... i can just use my double to do it... and then i can get a good look of how things are going. Why try something on and guess it looks ok when i can put it on the dummy me and see firsthand and with a 360 view?

IF i got questions, i will be sure to ask. I am mixing some of what I have seen for how to make Latex and Silicone tails. I want to mix the best info of both worlds and hopefully make something that really makes things easier for the next person!

Thanks again though Jessica.... I will be posting more soon! hope you enjoy the videos!

[Mermaid Oshun]

Good luck:)

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I have been playing with ideas how to make my tail distinct , even if its something small. So I decided to do a small scale "trademark" thing. This would be directly made into the tail. I took a pick of a small swatch of scales I was testing with. It would look something like this:http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/2013-08-08153117_zps4da07ff0.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/2013-08-08153117_zps4da07ff0.jpg.html)

This is just an idea, that i would like some input on... i know i make the call , but I am thinking either a heart, or a 4-leaf clover. Let me explain why for each.

Heart: This is do to all the love and care that i am putting into this project, and also for the heart what feels how others make us feel. Everyone here has made me feel so welcome, and shared tips and ideas....

4-leaf clover: This is due to that mermaids have been associated with luck... but good and bad, but lets stay on the good side :) well, luck can be represented by a 4-leaf clover.

So, what are your thoughts? i would love your input. Should i do the heart, the 4-leaf clover, or a mix of both? There would not be many of these but enough to have it be a small trait that you can find and not have to hunt all day...

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I broke my punch. I opened it up and the guide tracks for the cutter were broke... not sure why or how, but guessing a design flaw. I have broken it all down, and am using it as a hammer punch.... weird.. the circles are coming out better looking this way, and less hurt to my hand.


http://youtu.be/2cIfKg9auBw

[Mermaid Caspiana]

Excited to see how this plays out! :)

[PearlieMae]

Julz, I was going to mention this yesterday...about your leg dummy and the spray foam. I've done this before and you won't need to coat it in fiberglass if you use enough tape.

When filling it with the expanding spray foam, don't try and do it all at once! The center will never cure! Spray in some loops of foam and let them expand and harden, then go back and do a little more until the legs have filled. It might take four or five times of adding foam, but you might get away with just one or two cans. Also, if you have any styrofoam packing peanuts around, fill the legs with those and then fill the gaps with foam.

Good luck!

[Mermaid Julz]

PearlieMae, I figured as much about the foam. As for enough tape,, i don't think we did enough.... I might go back and redo it.... We had 2 layers of duct tape, and from what I seen in some videos on youtube... they say do at least 3 layers... so it means 2 rolls of duct tape for me. that was my main worry, not enough tape... plus looking it over after i made the video, it really needs alot more smoothing than there is. Its not looking all that good... so thats the first redo.

I just wish i could find a place that has the A B foam mix.... totally liquid, and you can just poor it in.

[PearlieMae]

I know Smooth On has the expanding foam, maybe try a florist supply shop, or buy from them direct.

I like to use packing tape instead of duck/duct tape. It goes farther and smooths pretty well. And it's a lot cheaper and you get more. Don't wrap it too tightly or it will distort. It really is good to have someone helping!

[Mermaid Oshun]

I cant wait to see your progress Julz. Good luck lady

[Mermaid Julz]

Slow but steady progress... i have about 1000 scales punched.... figure i will need about 500 more....


http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-10160538_zpsce923b19.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-10160538_zpsce923b19.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Julz]

well the Shell Fairy came to see me, and I was quite happy with what she brought me. I guess she was rewarding me for all the BS I had to deal with for the scales...

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-10224139_zpsedc9234f.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-10224139_zpsedc9234f.jpg.html)

Actually, my neighbor gave me these long ago and i never even bothered to look at them.... so glad i did now!

[Mermaid Tula]

Julz I have one that looks almost identical to the weird 'chicken bone' looking one!

[Mermaid Julz]

Wow, this is going to take a bit, but i have started.... and the glue fumes!!! wow, I didn't it would be that bad...but it has begun....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-11163807_zpsd1227227.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-11163807_zpsd1227227.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Julz]

Slightly more progress....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/SAM_0322_zps2d64a173.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/SAM_0322_zps2d64a173.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/SAM_0323_zps8fa4562c.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/SAM_0323_zps8fa4562c.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Julz]

Deleted

[Mermaid Kelda]

Hey Julz, I'm going to be really blunt here.
Like you say, many other people are doing funding projects for tails, on Kickstarter, Indiegogo, GoFundMe, etc.
But those people all have a reason behind their tail, too. Environmental protection, inspiration, education. You're not unique in that respect, charitable intent or no.
People are going to look at your campaign and think, what's special about this person's fund? Why would I give money to her rather than all the other inspirational, educational, charitable, environmental protecting mermaids?

I notice you have quite a few digital rewards, but other campaigns which I have seen do quite well offered craft items at near cost-price. People are more likely to give money when they can get something tangible back. Is offering shell-tops and necklaces something you think you could do? Can you paint? Draw? Sculpt? Something that costs you very little, e.g. pencils and paper, but is of high enough quality that you can sell it for a reasonable amount of money, is the perfect thing for funding campaigns.

This is just my two cents, and it's up to you if you take it on board. I've never done a kickstarter after all. But I have seen may mermaid kickstarters fail, and the few that have reached their goal were either very, very well publicised, or offered great rewards that people would feel like paying for regardless of the campaign.

Good luck with it!

[Mermaid Julz]

Melaina,
I am adding stuff as it goes, As of right now, I am waiting for my sis in law to get me the seaglass to make pendents and such. she is going to be sending it next week. i didn't want to add that till i got the supplies here. I draw, I do some painting (learned watching Bob Ross... Happy little trees) , but I also write poetry... which i did include... not all of them are digitial.... a signed 8x10 is not digital... nor is receiving a hand written copy of one of my poems. I will be posting stuff that i will be offering as they are done... I do not want to offer something and it not be completed... I feel that would be wrong... to only offer digital... Hence some of the things i offered are tangible items.

I do thank you for making the suggestions, and I will do my best to bare some to light as things are done.

As for fundraising, I am completely new to it... i have tried some before, but I got lost with it.... and i did watch them fail... but, I am also recruiting a team to help me this time, so i am not trying to do it alone.

I do have some small trinkets i am waiting to dry... Like this....
http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/2013-08-16001532_zpsace198a4.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/2013-08-16001532_zpsace198a4.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Kelda]

You'll have to forgive me, I only went off the information you already had up there. It's totally fair enough to not offer something you don't have yet. Though I didn't say all of your rewards were digital, just that a lot of them were, and that you didn't have any craft pieces up, which a lot of people like.
But good on you for trying this out, and for getting a team together - and offering pendants sounds like a great idea!

[Mermaid Julz]

No Worries Malaina! I understand going by what info you have. but things are slowing coming together for this, one step at a time, and before ya know it.... Bob's your Uncle! ( I learned this term while in Byron Bay, NSW.... i hope i used the context right)

I will be making a few more barrettes, and maybe even a shell pendent if i can find some good cord to use.
Here is a better view of the Barrette:
13634

Also these once dry will be going up:

13635 13636

[Mermaid Kelda]

Now there's a saying I haven't heard in a while xD yes, you did use it correctly!
Look forward to seeing your progress :)

[Mermaid Julz]

**************UPDATE***************** I have been blessed with two sponsors!!!! They have contributed 335 Dollars to this project! This brings me OVER the halfway point! I want to thank them so Much!

Merman Aeolius, A local merman in the Greensboro Area has contributed and become a partner is this venture! together we will work to complete this dream, and show it to the Mer community!!


The other is a Mermaid living in the Coastal waters of New England. This would be Echinacea. She helped with a critical part of this project. when this is done, I hope to join her for a swim at Cape Cod. :)

[Mermaid Tula]

Congrats!

[Mermaid Cascada]

I'm so happy for you! You deserve it!

[Merman Dan]

I am happy and honored to be a part of this project. :)

[Mermaid Kelda]

Fantastic! So glad it's coming together for you :)

[Mermaid Julz]

Due to the direct sponsorships, I am killing the fundraiser page, and I will be post the items I had there to be sold on ebay.com and here( if someone from here wants one, I will be willing to work on price)...

In a status update.... Latex (5 gal) and neoprene ordered (3.5 yds) expect them to be here within alittle over a week.

[Mermaid Julz]

I have finally finished the scaleboard and the video for it!

at times I never thought I would finish.... and be having nightmares of scales coming to get me! ....eek!

But here is the completed board....

13711

And if you would like to watch the video that i made regarding making this....


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xaq743eSTgg


Or watch the whole series at:

http://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLT-8GpPZMf9ej-IePN4q_c_W76fWyxAZy

Thanks, I hope the videos are helping people, and that you are enjoying them!

[Miyu]

HOLY SEA COW Julz, congrats on getting the funds! I can only hope my fundraising goes so well. :P But now that means we get to see you making your tail faster, yessss!

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I went and sketched oout my fluke.... and it is huge! thank goodness I am doing mirror cut so both sides are equal. I am debating if it will become a two peice template so I can make sure that the outer edging stays a constant thickness. now to decided which side i like more... the left or the right.... kinda partial to the right side....


Sorry about the size of the pics... for some reason its not letting me resize...

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0325_zps45964716.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0325_zps45964716.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0326_zpsd6eda918.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0326_zpsd6eda918.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0327_zps4c42a4ef.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0327_zps4c42a4ef.jpg.html)

[Marlin]

Looks great!

[Miyu]

That's going to be awesome! And huge! :D

[Mermaid Caspiana]

So cool!

[Mermaid Oshun]

keep up the long and arduous process. Try to keep it fun

[Mermaid Julz]

Thanks Marlin,Moon,Caspiana and Pearl. I appreciate all the support! Yes, I am trying to keep the process as fun as I can. Which I am trying to do from every aspect of this project. The more fun... the better it will turn out I feel. I've been reading the tutorials of Fantasea and Star a lot and owe much of my progress to their tutorials helping guide me along.



http://youtu.be/hYYS4R2LlVM

Either today or tomorrow I will be transferring this to my board. I think I might be getting some more clay also...

[Mermaid Julz]

well, I got this finally traced out on the board. I did my best to keep the outer edges the same thickness so when its time to make the casts, they will match up the best they can.

As always, I made another video for it for everyone to see...


http://youtu.be/Em6xovJ2xOE

[Mermaid Julz]

Total disaster today... I am so upset... After swimming a few laps for the first time with my monofin, there is sever damage. I was heartbroken to see this. I was starting to get the hang of it and to see this just was soo upsetting!!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ6F3_O4YQg

[ShyMer]

Contact finis and see if they'll help you out. I don't think it should have broken in that way with normal use.

that is a crazy break though.

[Mermaid Tula]

Omg Julz, I agree with ShyMer, get a hold of Finis, send them pictures and see if they can replace it. Where did you buy yours from? I've never seen a monofin break like that. I've seen straps that have broken, even some cracking on the blade but never the footpockets.

[Mermaid Julz]

I got it from a Dealer that sells on Ebay. It was brand new in the packaging. I contacted Finis, and put in a support ticket with a link to that video so they could see it.


At least i did get to use it alittle before it broke.... I made some videos of me using it, which was the whole time I was using it, so, I didn't do anything to abuse the fin...

Here is the link to watch my somewhat boring videos of my use of the monofin.... by video 3 i was getting the hang of it.... immediately after that video is when I noticed the damage
http://www.youtube.com/playlist?feature=edit_ok&list=PLT-8GpPZMf9c3629_BouqIQTtBtGcFWog

[PearlieMae]

Total disaster today... I am so upset... After swimming a few laps for the first time with my monofin, there is sever damage. I was heartbroken to see this. I was starting to get the hang of it and to see this just was soo upsetting!!!


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FJ6F3_O4YQg

Damn!
My Rapid broke in the same places, but that was after two seasons of hard swimming. I thought that was too soon to break, but yours is obviously defective!

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I did contact Finis like it was suggested. Today around 2pm I received the following email from Finis:


Juliet,

I'm sorry that your Rapid broke. Please reply back with your shipping address so I can get a replacement out to you next week when our new stock arrives.

Thanks


FINIS Support Team
The Leader in Technical Swimming Development
7085-E Las Positas Rd.
Livermore, CA 94551
Website: www.FINISinc.com

so, I replied back to them with my shipping info and asked " What do I do with the busted one?"

I got a reply back to that about an hour later.... this is what it said:

Juliet,

Just throw the rapid in the garbage.

Thanks I will get the replacement asap.

Thanks,

FINIS Support Team
The Leader in Technical Swimming Development
7085-E Las Positas Rd.
Livermore, CA 94551
Website: www.FINISinc.com


This is great! I am getting a replacement hassle free and in a fast time. This changed my thoughts a good bit on Finis. This is excellent customer service if you ask me. I was quite shocked how fast they responded and didn't argue... I guess taping that video right as i noticed it getting out of the pool paid off!

anyways, this will keep me on schedule and I will start sculpting out my fluke tonight!

[ShyMer]

That's great that they're getting a new one to you so quickly! Save the strap from your old one though, that way you have a backup in case one tears or wears out :)

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, today started out on the wrong foot for doing work on my tail. I went to lay my board down so I can start my clay, which meant moving my scaleboard so I could get to it. During this short time, my roomie's cat found it... and decided to use it as a scratching post... I just spent the last 45 mins removing damaged scales and carefully replacing them... Right now i want to kill a cat, but I got it fixed, and am getting ready to start laying down clay.

was starting to think Murphy's law was visiting me!!!

here we go fluke building!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, its been a good day so far. I am hoping to keep up the pace, but alas, I needed a break. Finished off the first 10 lb block, and will se starting on the second in a bit. For now paper towels over everything. I know this shows my fin in place, but its not going to be staying, its just to make sure i make the inner part of the fluke thick enough to cover it well.I am going about halfway up on each side. once I get it filled in with a good border around it, I will be removing it. Here are some pictures of my progress so far...


http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0339_zps4c4ec53a.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0339_zps4c4ec53a.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0340_zpsb23065b3.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0340_zpsb23065b3.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00376_zpsab8eb10f.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00376_zpsab8eb10f.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0341_zps589b5f6e.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0341_zps589b5f6e.jpg.html)



Trying to keep it as smooth as I can as I sculpt it out.....

[Mermaid Julz]

20 lbs of clay later and well, its finished.... no thanks to the stupid cat.... Really starting to think Murphy's law has it out for me....

here are 3 pics of the finished fluke... My video on it for the series will be coming soon....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-31150247_zps539f39fa.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-08-31150247_zps539f39fa.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00383_zps9df6c696.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00383_zps9df6c696.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00384_zpsab5ad489.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00384_zpsab5ad489.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00385_zps63956f82.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00385_zps63956f82.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Cascada]

20 lbs of clay later and well, its finished.... no thanks to the stupid cat.... Really starting to think Murphy's law has it out for me....

here are 3 pics of the finished fluke... My video on it for the series will be coming soon....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/CAM00387_zps716d03c6.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/CAM00387_zps716d03c6.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/CAM00386_zpsae732be1.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/CAM00386_zpsae732be1.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/CAM00385_zps63956f82.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/CAM00385_zps63956f82.jpg.html)
Really cool to see your progress! You're sculpt is total awesome fries of a tomato! Yeah... That means it looks great lol.

[Mermaid Oshun]

That is BEAUTIFUL! I love it. What did you comb it with to get the streaks?

[Mermaid Julz]

I just used an average everyday fork Pearl. I owe that little trick to Mermaid Star!

[Amphitrite]

That's a sweet tail. Thanks for sharing, it makes tails in general easier to understand for me. :)

[Miyu]

Your abundance of pics and video is indeed extremely helpful :) Love the lines!

[Marlin]

Your fluke is looking great! And I'm glad to hear that Finis is going to step up and send you a new one. :D keep on swimming Julz, you're doing great!

[Lady Aurelia]

Yay! I love watching people's work. So glad you were able to get the finis replaced.

[Mermaid Julz]

as promised... the little video for my process...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wf6A7NpkJ9A

[Mermaid Julz]

ok, i know its bee awhile since i posted anything.... I have been busy with lots of things this week, and next to no time to work on anything. But reast assured, i am slowly making some progress with things. I bought more poster board to make my pattern for the neoprene... and, I got more plaster to finish this massive mold.I am starting to wonder if this big a fluke will work... if not, I am out alot of plaster

[Mermaid Julz]

Its finally done... I thought it would never end... I just wish I would of gotten more pictures of the process.... but doing it by yourself (except near the end) you can't get alot of pictures with you hands covered in plaster. Anyone want to be my camera person?

Anyways, here is the next video of the adventure....
http://youtu.be/l4MGOeEfdGY

I had to have a video for the series with the H2O theme... so I used this one for it.....

If you want to hear a certain song in a video... please let me know!

[Marlin]

Julz- Your video is set to private. Would like to watch to see your progress, but can't get to it.

Scratch that- it's back :)

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I was able to separate my sculptured fluke from my Mold. I had fun trying to flip this monster by myself. I was kinda heartbroken to see all the cracks, but, its also still kinda wet, so I think I was adding layers too fast of plaster. I am hoping I don't have to recast this, cuz I am out of plaster, and no way to keep that clay wet till I can afford it. I am going to try and make it work though.

Video is here :
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2B8KqPA70pk

[Mermaid Oshun]

maybe you can fill the cracks and comb over it again to smooth it all together.
Good luck!!

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I was doing some brain storming, and was thinking of a way to fill gaps in the scaleboard so i don't have issues with the plaster seeping in. Then it dawned on me.... before coating in vaseline, coat in aa layer of elmers white glue. It seemed to work on the small scale test, so, now to try it on the full scale..... I think it should work... hopefully I bought enough glue.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/SAM_0390_zpsc8be9b71.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/SAM_0390_zpsc8be9b71.jpg.html)
As you can see, its pretty glossed over with the glue

Here is a closeup of the coated scales...
http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/SAM_0389_zpsf794cdd5.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/SAM_0389_zpsf794cdd5.jpg.html)

And what will be my trademark integrated into the tail... a 3 heart pattern.
http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/SAM_0392_zpscb8251c0.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/SAM_0392_zpscb8251c0.jpg.html)

[Soulstrifer]

Looks good!

[Seatan]

This is great! I am getting a replacement hassle free and in a fast time. This changed my thoughts a good bit on Finis. This is excellent customer service if you ask me. I was quite shocked how fast they responded and didn't argue... I guess taping that video right as i noticed it getting out of the pool paid off!

anyways, this will keep me on schedule and I will start sculpting out my fluke tonight!

This put me so at ease! Mine did the EXACT same thing after one swim! I called Finis and they said they just got a new batch in, so hopefully if there was something wrong with the batch ours came from, it won't be a problem in this one!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well it only took 3/4 of one bottle of glue to get a good coat on it for everything.... I am in the process of pouring my plaster, and I have 1 new video posted for prepping and soon to post will be the 1st half of the plaster pour video. I know these videos are not always pumped with loads of fun, but I do hope they are informative for everyone that watches them. I would like some feedback on the videos though if possible.... you can post feedback on the videos.....

Here is the prepping video


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5MRR-MeWsw

Thanks for following along! This is so much fun for me and also to share it with you! :)

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I got the next video edited and ready to go faster than i thought. ... Its the first part of making the plaster mold for the scaleboard. and for all you that grew up in the 80s, a TV theme just for you!


http://youtu.be/Eh2qhJ0SqeA


Thanks again everyone for all the support!.

ALSO ... FINIS UPDATE

Finis just sent me my confirmation email with tracking for my replacement Rapid monofin. Its on the way, and should be here soon!!!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I am almost finished with the scaleboard mold. Last layer of plaster goes on today.... just got to get my lazy butt out of bed... but yes, last batch of plaster.... then let it dry till tonight and remove it. I will be so glad to finish... then I will also have to get my fluke mold finished getting cut down, and a small bit of repair on it.... but nothing major. Cleaning of the molds will start in a day or 2 .... then I will be on hold for things for a couple weeks. I am getting ready for my 20 year reunion, and trying to make sure everything is in order.

for those that have been following along, thanks for the support... it keeps me motivated! I promise to get right back to it once I return.

And on my Finis issue.... MY Rapid arrived yesterday!!!!! I need to go swim now...... its almost too cold to swim outside now...

[Mermaid Julz]

ok, so i finished up now cuz i didn't wanna wait till later tonight. a short spot video will be made when I release it later tonight. So, here is the Video.... I think I am gonna go back and redo my video links so, they are just here like this one....


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B4juB0TmlRo


Thanks for watching!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, we released the scaleboard from the mold.... and I hate not having help doing stuff.... chances are what happened could of been avoided with an extra set of hands. lets just say this... Plaster hates me... I will learn sooner or later the right mix and setting time, but , i thought it would be fine for tonight...since all i had was a small part to pour... also next time I will make the board thicker... maybe one more bag of plaster. But I will not let this get me down..... I can still use part of it, I will just have to seam sheets together...

Live and learn.... i can't expect it to go prefect....

here is the video:


http://youtu.be/tDGQdlQt60A

[Mermaid Tula]

Looking Great! <3 I probably would have burst into angry tears if I had made a mold and it cracked lol

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, went to move the undamaged part of the scaleboard, to try and readd the lost part, and it fell apart in movement... so, I am going to just do the mold in fiberglass.

[PearlieMae]

Aw, damn, Julz! That sucks! I know what you mean, I don't have an extra set of hands around very often, either. Then I had the hydrocal/hydrostone mix up. Duh!

I am going to do fiberglass or a resin/fiber mold. Only because I have resin on hand. Testing, testing, testing!

Working my last nerve! Good luck!

[Mermaid Julz]

well Dan showed up with fiberglass resin today and we tried to move the Fluke mold unfortunately it started cracking badly when we had to handle it by hand so going to have to resculpt the fluke.

but it least this time it will be made out of fiberglass in a ton lighter

[PearlieMae]

Sorry about your setbacks! :(

[Mermaid Julz]

PearlieMae, its all good... as Dan told me, do not look at it as a failure or setback, but as a learning curve. I got the clay soaking so I can re sculpt the fluke... it should be ready in a few days(maybe sooner) and I shall have the fluke again, but this time it shall be molded in Fiberglass..then I am done messing with errors. Plus, i can use some extra boards i got and frame off more of the dead space, so we use even less. All and all, it could of been worse, and I am moving on with the project.

My videos on the process will remain, cuz the process was right, I just couldn't get the plaster to work for me.... thats all.

I dunno if I am gonna do a video about them in fiberglass... chances are I might, but it will be a group of pics of it more than a live video.

[Mermaid Julz]

Sorry its been awhile since I have given an update. I was gone for my reunion, so I just started back working this weekend. I gotten more of the need supplies, and am going to be pouring them later tonight. I thought that one gallon of fiberglass resin would of been enough for my scaleboard, but i was wrong. It seems I was lacking about 1/4 of a gallon to give it enough strength. so, I will also be using the cloth when i put on the final coat to give it just a bit more strength. Once this is done, on my next day off, i will start to resculpt my fluke to remake the mold from fiberglass. I will also be getting rid of alot of the deadspace I had.

Thats about it for my update. Hope everyone is doing well!

[Jessica]

Hi julz!

i can wait to see some pictures/video! :) keep up the good work! I know this will turn out great!! Fiberglass cloth really does help strengthen a mold. I use it with shell shock and it works great.

[Mermaid Julz]

well, I ended up using 1.5 gallons of fiberglass on the sccaleboard. I do not dare risk scuplting out the fluke again with only 1/2 a gallon of fiberglass left due to the size of my fluke. I should be able to start again on the first of Nov if all goes well, sooner if Dan gets a chance to get out for supplies. We are behind schedule, but I think that the lost time can be made up. I have an Airbrush with mini compressor on the way here, so, I will at least be able to paint when the time comes (not ordering clear latex till then unless i can get over to the halloween store and they have some)

My nerves regarding this are starting to rattle some though. I have a deadline for this so its ready for the NC Merfest. I feel I would be fine if I had a few extra weeks, but, alas, I don't.

A new video will be posted when i can start sculpting out the fluke again.

[Jessica]

You can get it done in time julz! Don't stress...you should be fine! Once you get past all these setbacks, I'm sure your tail will come together quickly! I can't wait to see how this turns out! :rainbow:

[PearlieMae]

I was wondering where you'd gotten off to...sorry about the setbacks! Good luck with the re sculpt!

[Mermaid Julz]

So, today i should be finished with the re sculpt of my fluke. I will then coat it and start pouring the fiberglass within the day. I am so glad I decided to go with the fiberglass. Its made things so much easier, at least, it seems so far. I won't be doing a full video for this, but I will be making a short one to add to my series. Its mainly to show that setbacks happen, you learn from them, and move on... ( on a lighter note part of the scaleboard plaster finally dried... after weeks. so I have a small test mold) Thanks to all that have been following. Your comments and support have what has kept me going!

[Mermaid Julz]

Just my lasted video just to give everyone an update and let them see where I am in my progress.


http://youtu.be/G9HubZNG17U

[Mermaid Julz]

So... today I was biting all my nails off. I finally broke things down for the scaleboard.... you can watch and see how it turned out...



http://youtu.be/AQasu5eCKfw


Seems using white glue was a LEGEN.......Wait for it....... DARY! Idea... It's hereby Trademarked/Patented, whatever you call it..... LoL.

[Mermaid Oshun]

Congratulations on your success Julz!!! You've earned it!

[PearlieMae]

I'm so glad you are making such good headway after your earlier setbacks!

[Jessica]

Looks great julz! I'm so happy for you! :dance:

Do your molds feel sturdy? I use fiberglass cloth in between layers of shell shock to add strength to the mold. You can do this with just about any mold material if you're worried about the strength of the mold. It's really cheap too....I think I paid like $6 for a pack at Home Depot and one pack is enough to do a fluke mold. If you do decide to use it, just make sure you don't buy the fiberglass matting....it isn't as strong as the cloth!

I'm so excited to see how this turns out!

[Mermaid Julz]

The fluke is done with matting. It has 2 layers of it. the scalemold has one layer of the cloth. The dimensions for the cloth were perfect for the scalebox. IT feels like it has a good amount of strength to it. I don't plan on anything but latex and Silicone to ever be used for it, so, its ready ... just needs to be cleaned up.

the matting offered more Sq ft coverage, and it worked well for all the curves and stuff. I made sure to make 2 layers with it. That mold will be opened either tonight or tomorrow. I am leaning more to tomorrow due to the fact that I will have to break it free alot differently due to some seepage onto the outter board of the wall made (ducktape and 12 pack boxes)

[Jessica]

Your scale mold looks awesome :)

just so you know.... Dragonskin silicone won't cure around latex. If you were planning on making a platinum cure (dragon skin) silicone tail in the future, you will have to make new molds. :( that's one of the reasons I went straight into silicone instead of trying latex first. I was wondering though....is it possible to use tin cure silicone in a scale mold? I wouldn't use the stuff personally because of the health risk, but I am curious if it would work....

[Mermaid Julz]

Thanks everyone on the compliments on the scaleboard.

@ Golden Pearl
Thanks girl! I took it slow and steady getting these molds done. I was relieved that it gave me no problems. I needed the break from the stress, so it turning out good melted that away.

@PearlieMae
YeahI had some setbacks that really discouraged me. I had rattled nerves remaking both molds. I am so happy that it turned out so nice.
@Jessica
ok. I don't plan on silicone anytime soon, and I have thought of a few other patterns to try for it when I get to using Silicone. I was not sure though if I scrubbed the heck out of it that it might work . As for the tin cure, I have no idea.

I still have one mold left to release. That will be today. I plan on doing it after work sometime. (which I need to get ready to go to)
I will post how that one goes later!

[Mermaid Julz]

Hey everyone, I made a short one showing the new fluke mold. i didn't go into all the detail of my other videos.... cuz its short... but here ya go so you can have a look. I will be cleaning both molds this weekend!!!!


http://youtu.be/xBqfBB43h4M

[Mermaid Julz]

so, it got suggested to me that I should use a dremmel and cut shallow groves into the mold to give it some texture... I will be thinking this over. I don't want to damage it to a point I cannot use it. This is 1.5 gallons of fiberglass... so its not cheap.... although its cheaper than the plaster mold..... I dunno, give me your opinion... should I just sand it smooth if after cleaning and there are not many groves? or should i risk it to add some texture?

[Mermaid Oshun]

that would be a big project to go over each scale various times for at least 5 streaks. Make sure you're ready for it before you start! Is it worth it to you? I think sometimes elegant simplicity is best instead of a busy mess.

Honestly if I were going to do that, I would do it during the clay stage so it could be fluid and flowy 3 dimensional groves instead of wrinkly, uneven squiggly steaks / lines.

[drucilla]

That looks Awesome so far. You're good at this:)

[Mermaid Julz]

@Golden

its not in the scales... its in the fluke. The groves on the fluke didn't look like they all came in. leaving me the choice of smoothing it down and adding groves or just smoothing it down. I should of specified there there. The scales actually got a texture due to how the process of prepping. It will be more visible once the mold is clean... I would never try to do it to the scales.... that would be insane.

@ Drucilla

Thanks! I am really owing the credit to all the wonderful information posted on this site. I would not be able to do it alone. I have taken information from both the latex and the silicone tail threads to do this. I have pulled from Star's,Jazz's,Cascada's, Fantasea's and Disfusion's to name a few that I have bookmarked to guide me along the way with making a few tweaks to bring my own style into this.

[PearlieMae]

Nothing wrong with a smoother tail or fluke! Less drag in the water, and from my research, the smoother the fish, the more hydrodynamic. I've re-thought my scales and am sculpting my fluke with less dramatic lines than I originally set out to do.

Keeping fins crossed for ya! ;)

[Mermaid Julz]

Got the buckets today. So, I am getting a mix ready to use. Star, thanks for the info on how to make my Brush last longer for putting down coats. Also, when i opened the latex, I got a little surprise!

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/2013-11-10134131_zps5acf49b9.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/2013-11-10134131_zps5acf49b9.jpg.html)


So now I have some monster clay to use and maybe sculpt out something small.

So, here we go.... latex time.

[Jessica]

Good luck julz! You're going to love the monster makers clay! It's totally worth the price and I love that you can melt it and reuse it! It's pretty hard at room temp...I used a blow dryer to heat it just a little to smooth things out and it's much easier to work with! That's awesome that you got a sample of it!

I'm so excited to see your scales and fluke in latex!!! :rainbow:

[Mermaid Oshun]

Happy tail making and best wishes

[Mermaid Julz]

ok, here is a pic of how its going so far..... Its only like 2 layers... so its really seathrough to the board. but its getting there. I am doing thin layers so I can get about 5 done tonight... it will still need lots more...
Taken with my phone...

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-10184507_zpsb09ee34f.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-10184507_zpsb09ee34f.jpg.html)

More to come later.

[Mermaid Oshun]

Julz, just a little hint, for the subsequent layers and in the future, don't use the whole scale sheet. Just fill in for your approximate measurements to save a LOT of product and prevent excess waste. This way you can keep the cost down for yourself and your customers. Also make sure you use a heater in the room this time of year to help with curing.

[Mermaid Julz]

I will do that in the future, but my measurement form got ruined, and I need to get it remade.... so, I just figured to the sheet, and then cut out the excess. the excess I will pack up and save for patching rips/tears, so its not going to go to waste.

I try not to waste anything... I have recycled my clay again. and all the wood used to make the original scaleboard mold box. the walls from it are now a support frame for the scale mold.

[Mermaid Oshun]

You could make your product THICKER instead of having a lot of excess on hand if you did it this way. That would prevent the rips, etc. You can take your own approximate measurements. Also, in the future, look into getting some power mesh fabric to lay into the mold after about one hour of pouring the last layer. It will strengthen your product.

[Jessica]

Hi julz!

golden pearl gave some great advice! I brush silicone in my scale mold with a paintbrush based on my measurements. Like for the ankle area...my ankles are 13" so I make my scales about 8" wide for that area (I do 2 sheets) It saves a ton of silicone and makes seaming the tail much easier because you don't have to do so much measuring/trimming before seaming!

Powermesh is awesome for silicone, but for latex most people have a neoprene lining so you wouldn't need it. I think most people would want the thicker neoprene lining....correct me if I'm wrong...but I think a small % of people can develop a latex allergy if they have frequent exposure to it. Anyway, I don't think you really need really thick scales if you back them up with neoprene. The neoprene will add a lot of strength!

So excited for you!!!:D

[Mermaid Oshun]

You're right about the neoprene Jessica. Just that she decided not to use any so power mesh would be the most discrete option in lieu of that.

[Mermaid Julz]

I didn't decide not to use any, I was forced due to a BS company not to do any. I have my measurements, its just the cutout I had for it, well, it got ruined... a certain little person.... nuff said.

This will be thicker. 10+ layers..... I just need to get my measurements drawn out again, and then I can use it as my shape template again.... but, I need to get the paper I used for it. that will have to wait till friday though... and I am on a deadline, so, I got to do what I got to do. This will have plenty of layers to get it thick enough, and I am still as everyone says in the learning process.

I do appreciate the advice. If I was able to get neoprene here within the week, I would do it. But, my budget is maxed right now. I would love to get alot of things that would benifit it better, but its not in the cards with my deadline :(

The more ideas out here the better, I do totally appreciate everything you two are sharing...

... and also, i got a few other scale things that are in the works, just in a Classified nature atm.... don't wanna give away all my tricks. Nothing ever goes to waste around here....

[Jessica]

I didn't realize that you didn't get any new neoprene! Since you're not going to use neoprene, I highly recommend picking up some powermesh. I just checked joanns and they have it in stock at the store in Greensboro. http://www.joann.com/performance-fabric-power-mesh-tango-red-/10655256.html

My first tail was just silicone and the new tail I'm working on has powermesh. The difference is simply night and day. It's cheap (you only need it for the body, not the fluke) and it's worth every penny! It makes a huge difference in the strength of the scales and if you measure exactly from the top of your tail to the bottom of the scales, you can buy exactly what you need and save some $.

At the very least you might want to get just a quarter of a yard to back up high stress areas, but I would cover the whole tail if I were you. My first tail is fragile in a few spots...I've ripped a couple tiny holes at the points of the scales when I was taking the tail off. They are easy to fix, but I know Eva's tail won't have this issue because of the powermesh. Like I said....it's worth it! :)

[Mermaid Julz]

Yeah Jessica, I wanted to, but then I never saw the threads warning about never ordering from stretch house. I order Neoprene form them, and they sent neoprin. They swear up in down its neoprene. I have 3.5 yards of Neoprin sitting here useless to me. Thanks for the link. Due to how wide it is, I think 2 yards is more than plenty. so 22+ tax and I got a very helpful item. I will put it down for the next payday and trip into town. I think I got a few coupons from them for 30% off too....

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I wanted to give an update to this with a couple photos. I am almost done with my layers for the first sheet of scales casted. the camera doesn't give the color justice.


http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130922_zpsd8f62d18.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130922_zpsd8f62d18.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130936_zpsc1cb3bb6.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130936_zpsc1cb3bb6.jpg.html)


I got about 2-3 more layers to go since they are uber thin.... ouftah, this is taking a slow going...

But I like how it is going... soon as I can no longer see the dark fiberglass showing through, i am done....

[Firemaid]

WOW!!! looking good :)

[Mermaid Tula]

Julz it's looking fantastic! <3

[drucilla]

So, I wanted to give an update to this with a couple photos. I am almost done with my layers for the first sheet of scales casted. the camera doesn't give the color justice.


http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130922_zpsd8f62d18.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130922_zpsd8f62d18.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130936_zpsc1cb3bb6.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-12130936_zpsc1cb3bb6.jpg.html)


I got about 2-3 more layers to go since they are uber thin.... ouftah, this is taking a slow going...

But I like how it is going... soon as I can no longer see the dark fiberglass showing through, i am done....
That color is Amazing!!

[Mermaid Julz]

Color is 52.5 mL of the magenta pearlized Createx paint. Its mixed in with slightly under a gallon of latex (bout 7/8 of a gallon). I measured it out and wrote it on the side of the bucket so I know how much to mix per my ratios.

[Mizuko]

Yay pink <3 :D

[drucilla]

Color is 52.5 mL of the magenta pearlized Createx paint. Its mixed in with slightly under a gallon of latex (bout 7/8 of a gallon). I measured it out and wrote it on the side of the bucket so I know how much to mix per my ratios.
Great idea! I am ALWAYS forgetting things, so I'm sure that would be helpful to people like me.

[Mermaid Julz]

Fast update video... I know i look like crap.... was a long day, but I wanted to film some of the working on this...


http://youtu.be/OsO79hOnfl4

I felt Like bob ross with all the dabbing and "just alittle here..... just a dab here"

Also.... the paintbrush in the soapy water... that I learned from Star's Latex Tail Thread.

[Mermaid Julz]

Later today I shall remove the first scale sheet from the mold. I pray these came out like I hope.

[Mermaid Julz]

So, i am not very happy with how the scales came out. I have some work to do with my dremmel after it sits for a day or two completely drying.

but, I can work with it, and I must make it right... I don't want to have crappy scales. I know I am new to all this, but I can't have this and I want them to be right. Sorry to disappoint you guys with these bad scales.


Here is the video....


http://youtu.be/VcGoDDcsteo

[Soulstrifer]

Looks good love

[PearlieMae]

Nothing to apologize for, Julz! It looks great so far! You can't expect it to come out perfect right off the mold. Once you get it pieced and painted, it's going to look awesome! Congrats!

Everyone is making so much progress! I feel like I'm falling behind!

[Jessica]

Nothing to apologize for, Julz! It looks great so far! You can't expect it to come out perfect right off the mold. Once you get it pieced and painted, it's going to look awesome! Congrats!

Everyone is making so much progress! I feel like I'm falling behind!

^ I second this! Your scales look great! Paint covers a lot of imperfections so don't worry.....your tail will be great! :)

Pearlie, you're not falling behind! Your fluke sculpture looks great and tailmaking just takes time :)

[Mermaid Star]

Looking really good! I just want to warn you that thick latex will not stretch. I have ran into this problem with my tail. I had to put a zipper in because the top waist would not stretch to get over my butt with out some sever coaxing and by coaxing I mean, two or more men shaking me into a tail after slathering my entire lower half with silicone based personal lube. Silicone lube is not good for latex, so I had to wash it out really well. I just don't want you to have the same issues I had. I do recommend the neoprene liner. It helps keep the latex off of your skin, helps with the extra weight of the latex in the water and keeps you warm when swimming in cool springs. If you can get it, I would still use it. Also, Latex shrinks considerably once it dries. Take this into account when casting your scales. I am sure that I have said these things in my thread, but just in case I haven't, there you go. You look to be doing very well and I look forward to seeing your final product.

[Mermaid Julz]

Thanks Star! yeah, i know if its too thick it will not stretch. since my layers where so thin building up, its not much thicker than a rubber band right now for my scales. I going to keep the brushing technique for it... really thin layers built up on each other. I have let it dry, and its still pretty stretchy... I stopped at 10 layers due to thinking back to your thread and videos regarding thickness.

As to the Neoprene, I would love to use it. sadly though due to those people at Stretchhouse misrepresenting their product, I am stuck not using it at this time. I do plan on using something to help strengthen it though. I have some stuff on the way that someone donated to the cause.

Your thread has given me many an awesome idea, and I do try to give you the credit when credit is do. your tail came out amazing! I am hoping to get mine to look half as good!

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I been working on the fluke at a fair pace, I wanted to share some pics I took yesterday....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-20183753_zpsb195ea02.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-20183753_zpsb195ea02.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-20183807_zps93d7e8bc.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-20183807_zps93d7e8bc.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-20183853_zpse12f6403.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-20183853_zpse12f6403.jpg.html)


I did a thick pour in the outer veins. They are dried aliittle in these pictures, but I feel they will take a few more days. They will need one more coat of latex on them to fill them to the proper point... then I will do a semit thick fill in the center area. it seems this yellow will hide the color of my monofin coming though nicely.

[PearlieMae]

Looking good, Julz!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I finished filling in on the outer veins of the fluke, now to give it days to dry. I still have like 2-3 inner layers I want to do to give that rich yellow to set in. since the new rapid I have is a brighter yellow, i felt this would help hid it some. once I pull it from the mold, I plan on giving it one more layer to the actual top, and letting it streak just alittle to give it a faux texture.

I also fixed some of the bad spots the best i could on the scale mold, and have given it 2 coats. this one should turn out better than the first one.

So, here is pics of how the Fluke looks so far....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0542_zps308cfa1e.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0542_zps308cfa1e.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0544_zpsffba8f72.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0544_zpsffba8f72.jpg.html)


Its not a perfect match, but its close, and should help hide the monofin. Also I have some black paint on order to mix with some yellow to give a dark and light mix to it for added texture. If all goes as planned, it will have a Baleen effect to it., just like my original drawing.

[Jessica]

Your fluke is massive!!! I can't believe how big it is! You've made so much progress! Keep up the good work!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, i am 6 ft tall.... trying to proportion so i seem balanced.

The fluke is 38" across, and the center is 1.5" longer than the rapid at the centerline. I will get full measurements once i pull it.

[PearlieMae]

I'm so excited for you! I can't wait to see the whole tail finished!

[MermanTyphoon]

You are doing so fantastic! I just realized that we live less than a hour away from each other! We should swim together sometime in the future!

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I just realized I never put up my video for measurements.... so I made a quick video for it.


http://youtu.be/Kcok7BwOj1Y

[Mermaid Julz]

Well here we are folks! the first half of the fluke is done. Its gonna need some touchup, but nothing major. I should be able to get everything done in a day or two. In the meantime, fluke half two is going to get made. I am going to do a small test to see how Latex interacts with dried emler's glue. if it works, I am going to fill the bad spots and a thin coat over the whole thing.... test patch to be made tonight.



Here is the video:


http://youtu.be/Rt5f0EltkeA

[Jessica]

So exciting! It looks great julz! I can't wait to see more :)

[PearlieMae]

Very exciting! What a great process!

[Mermaid Julz]

well, I have cut away the access from the edges, and just wanted to see how it looked on my feet....

I know you can still see the monofin, but this is just one half without the extensions added to it.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/2013-11-30002205_zps6daa17d9.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/2013-11-30002205_zps6daa17d9.jpg.html)

[PearlieMae]

Awesome Julz! You are more than halfway done, don't you think?

[Mermaid Julz]

yup, scales to be cut to shape sometime this weekend if I don't get swamped... second half of fluke to be poured.... but its ready to go... I also go to go pick up my plastic sheeting to fill on the empty voids... I got my work cut out for me but, I am in crunch time... less than a month to be ready


***UPDATE**** 01:42 EST

I couldn't fall back asleep, and I am so charged for many reasons, I went ahead and started another thick pour on the fluke veins. They should be completely dried in a few days, and if they need a layer or two more i can give it to them.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-30013757_zpsac04b27f.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-11-30013757_zpsac04b27f.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I know this is not tail building related, but I thought I would share it anyways....

Here is a video of my 3rd time ever using a monofin. I was working on keeping myself under the water and also breath holding.... on average I was holding about 12 seconds, at least thats what the video clock told me. but here it is, nothing fancy just me in a pool.

And Nerine, thanks for sharing such great music to use for swim videos


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8VVaSNo8nhw

[PearlieMae]

That's great, Julz! Like Dory says,"just keep swimming"!

I quit smoking 13 years ago, and nothing gets you in better lung shape than swimming...try undulating more through your torso and hips, and not bend your legs at the knees, it will give you better push through the water, and you are less likely to get foot cramps. Good job!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, its starting to look like a tail. I have both my scale sheets cut. took a bit of time, but they are ready for the next stage of putting then together... I will be posting my normal video later, but for now I have a few pics to share. My fingers how hurt and its time for a break from all that cutting!

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0573_zps1453209a.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0573_zps1453209a.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0574_zps762f9171.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0574_zps762f9171.jpg.html)


http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/scales_zps8ae74ebc.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/scales_zps8ae74ebc.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00573_zps041f962a.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00573_zps041f962a.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Oshun]

Congrats! Can you swim at the Cary pool with it?

[Mizuko]

Looks great!! :D

[Jessica]

I love the pink! It looks great julz! So happy for you! :)

[Mermaid Julz]

Thanks everyone.... Its been a long road, but I am almost there.... I know its not the Silicone that everyone wants, but I want to make affordable tails for everyone as long as this one comes out looking good.. I plan on showing it at the NC Merfest. Time will tell.


@ Jessica ..... I know it looks it but its not pink, the camera just makes it look that way for some reason. Its actually a rose violet. either way, its all good. I like how its coming along.

@Golden Pearl.... Yes, you can wear a tail at the Cary TAC. I can also wear a tail at my local YMCA in Reidsville.



So, i have been dealing with the fact of how big my fluke is. its got a lot of floppy void to the sides. I have been brainstorming, and this is what i have come up with....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0586_zpsee0250a3.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0586_zpsee0250a3.jpg.html)

Now, there will actually be 3-4 u brackets per side, but I just didn't have enough room to draw it all. This would also keep everything center-lined for the monofin. I know this is a rough drawing, but I think it could actually work. This would fill the voids and stop me from having to make a total custom monofin.

I plan on in the future making my flukes closer to the monofin, this way I can limit modifications.

I'm open to suggestions on how to do this if anyone has other ideas on modification of the monofin!!!

Please let me know! :)

[PearlieMae]

Looks great, Julz! I will ponder your fin situation and see if I can think of anything, but it looks like you have a good start.

[PearlieMae]

If you cut your lexan into the extended fluke shape, you could just bolt the whole thing to the backside of your monofin using the teflon bolts and neoprene washers, no? You wouldn't need U brackets. A couple up by the top, a few around the edges, and maybe four bolts in the center area.

[Mermaid Julz]

PearlieMae, I thought about that... but there will be a bigg gap. I am not sure how well that will work due to the ridges on the Rapid, but I can think on that some more. I first need to figure out how to make $67.97+ tax. My next 2 checks are spoken for regarding bills and travel to merfest to showcase this.

[Mermaid Julz]

So, As promised, another video for the thread. Here it is!

Enjoy!
http://youtu.be/7ngNtjp8bx4

[PearlieMae]

I don't think the gap would be all that thick, I have a rapid, and those ridges aren't too deep. The fluke will be flush towards the end of the fluke. If you leave a couple of openings on the fluke's trailing edge, rather than seal it completely around, water won't balloon up inside your fluke and external water pressure should force any water out of the fluke pocket. Plus, the wedge shape of the gap could help hide your heels some.

Does that make sense?

[Jessica]

This is a totally different idea....but I remember seeing a video of a girl who added really flexible rubber to her monofin. She just sewed it on after drilling tiny holes in the monofin. It looked really really natural and realistic. I did something similar with my sequin tail, but I used stiffer stuff....I couldn't find the flexible kind. It was heavy, but functional, cheap and it might work for you. It only cost me $10 or $11 if I remember correctly :)

Heres a a picture to give you an idea. This is a wave monofin inside:

[PearlieMae]

(you are so cute! And your little guy is adorable!)

[Mermaid Julz]

so, I took a trip to home depot today to try and get everything .... I went online to first to make sure everything was in stock at the store.. The website said they were.... So I drove down there....

I GET THERE AND NOTHING I NEEDED WAS IN STOCK! This Mer could of made water boil 10 ft away! I was that hot over it.


So, I drove back home, and had to order all supplies online. They will be here within 7 days... They need to wrangle everything up from multiple stores with transfers to get it.

I am gonna mix your idea and mine in together PearlieMae... instead of using the binding blocks on the bottom, I am going to overlap the rapid there and with the nylon binding screw directly into the rapid.

This will make side bracing a bit more stable and induce less stress overall on the rapid.

I also got lots of straight pins, so its time to start putting the scale sheets together!!! Will start that tonight or tomorrow!

[PearlieMae]

Well, that bloody stinks! Once you get your supplies, be sure to go online to Home Depot corporate and tell the CEO how annoyed you are! My boss did that and ended up getting some stuff free! It's ridiculous that they can't tie in their inventory system with their online system!

Good luck!

I'm not sure how straight pins will work with latex. Do a test on some of your scrap first!

[Miyu]

Ugh! I have SO MANY problems with Home Depot's inventory. Granted, I live in an extremely rural area, but you would think that would mean I'd be swimming in "home improvement" stores... Not so. There is one Home Depot, 3 towns over. No matter what I'm looking for, online inventory is wrong about whether they have it or not. Plus, the employees out here hardly know what they sell... I don't look for things that are *that* obscure, honestly... -_-; And calling in to check if it's *really* in stock doesn't help, because the employees can't find things anyways haha... Spent half an hour wandering looking for simple hardware last time I went in!

I'm loving the progress on your tail though! And I hope you can get your supplies soon! Silly Home Depot and inventory systems... -_-;

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I've been busy today, and I will be through the night. I tested how the latex is with straight pins, It works wonderful.... and due to it working so wonderful, I used it as my tutorial video! But Alas, even though its complete, I cannot show it yet until i get approval from a mermaid we all know( I used her picture).... I am not saying who cuz I do not want to spoil the surprise..... Just make sure you tune in to find out who......I just wish I could post it now!!!

I am glad that most of you find my videos useful, and I hope I make them somewhat not boring for you!

Please let me know if you got anything specific you want to ask... I am thinking of making a Q&A video.... which I will have an announcement video on Youtube for. On it you can ask anything you would like.... and if I get more than 50 questions, I will pick some at random and answer ....

[Mermaid Julz]

Ok, I am going to post my Video I couldn't wait mainly cuz it eats at me when something is ready to roll.... and seek forgiveness if the person I used does have a problem( I wouldn't think so since I am not making money on these videos). If by chance she does, I will take it down, and edit out the part. So... with no further ado.....


SORRY VIDEO REMOVED. IT WAS SOOO WRONG!!!IT WILL BE REPLACED SHORTLY

Btw, can someone remind me not to work on my tail in my work scrubs????? I rush right to working on my tail when I get home everyday!

[Mermaid Julz]

And I decided to do this.... Here is a Q&A video.... As the video description states, ask me pretty much whatever.... just don't get too personal. It can be from tail stuff, to my favorite candy bar, to how rockets are made(even though i don't quite completely know that answer). Be creative and imaginative with your questions. This is a chance to get to know my way of tailmaking, and getting to know me. ) post them on the Youtube comments for this video!


http://youtu.be/931cctVaD1Y

[Jessica]

My question: where did you get those pretty earrings?!

It would be really cute if you put all the questions on little cards and picked them out of a fishbowl in your video :)

[Mermaid Julz]

Jessica, I will transpose your question to the video page! and I think I might do that fishbowl idea..... granted I get enough questions!

To anyone else, please post questions on the video comments on Youtube! When I reach 50, I will answer them!

[Mermaid Julz]

Folks, I apologize for that first round for the video... it sucked... and the info was soooo wrong.... if you watched it... wipe it out of your mind.... the right video is here now....


http://youtu.be/d51dhhBbpu4

[Jessica]

Awesome julz! I'm so glad I was able to help :) seams are tough, but they get easier!

[PearlieMae]

That was great!

[Mermaid Adriel]

such a great job! :)

[Mermaid Julz]

Thank you all.

@Jessica, I could not give you more praise for all the help. I was sooo agitated with it that day. You bailed me out when I know you were busy.

@PearlieMae... You have been with me every step of the way... cheering me on, and after what you told me on our PM talk, I am humbled.


So, I want to make something for both of you. a pair of Scalloped earrings for each of you, or I can make one of you earrings, and the other a hairclip(down to one hairclip base) We can work out details to get them to you later....

@ Claudia Thanks. I am glad you are with us here on mernetwork. The more here the merrier.


Today I worked on my tail for about an hr, and said take a break... work on something else( I needed to decompress on tail today). I made some jewelry for NC Merfest to wear. I love how things came out. Here are pics of the stuff i made today...

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/Hairclip_zps846762b2.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/Hairclip_zps846762b2.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-12-07175327_zps1e22a108.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-12-07175327_zps1e22a108.jpg.html)

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/earrings_zpsacf6da59.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/earrings_zpsacf6da59.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Julz]

Well. I decided I would work on it for a bit more tonight...here is where I am at....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00589_zps01e21001.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00589_zps01e21001.jpg.html)

Just a few more inches to go!!!


And then I decided I would give the fluke its last couple coats... the purple coat will go on later.....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00591_zpsb1125ab1.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00591_zpsb1125ab1.jpg.html)

[Jessica]

It's looking so good! Its really starting to look like a tail now!!! ;)

I'm always happy to help julz! I'm just so glad it worked for you with latex!

[Mermaid Oshun]

I love the tail Julz!

[Yulia]

It looks great! You're making good progress, can't wait to see more! :D

[Mermaid Julz]

Working on the second seam today. Its looking much better than the first seam. I tell ya, an exacto knife and a little patience go a long way... I will have to go back and touch up the first seam. Here is the second seam all pinned out.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/CAM00592_zps2a0dc7f6.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/CAM00592_zps2a0dc7f6.jpg.html)

[PearlieMae]

JULZ! Everything you are making looks wonderful! I'm so excited for you!

And I am honored to have you as my friend!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, its been a long day... I love how the second seam turned out... still lots of work to be done....

I wanted to post this video to say something to everyone out here....


http://youtu.be/-bPxjRDTxLc

Omg! I forgot echinacea!! Thank you girl!

[MermanTyphoon]

I commented on your video about how the tail makes you even prettier :) It doesn't make u look fat lol :)

Sent from my VS840 4G using Tapatalk

[Jessica]

Ahhh!!! It looks so good! I love the color and I'm so excited to see this all together! And no you do not look fat! ;)

[thebabysitting-mermaid]

Love you Julz! I'm so happy for you, you look so gorgeous is your tail and it isn't even finished yet!! I'm so excited and I cannot wait to see it completed. So proud!

[PearlieMae]

You are so freaking awesome!

No, the tail does not make you look fat, but damn, that is one girly, rosy color!

LOVE YOU!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I decided I was not going to chance ruining my good rapid. I had debated on it, and planned it out to the last minute when I decided not to do anything to it. I then decided to just go ahead and make a full custom monofin to go inside my fluke.

I am so glad I made this choice. It makes everything look so much better. Thank you Kae for your video and thread on how to make one of these. Visual learning is my thing and that gave me exactly what I needed.

So, here is my video regarding the process....


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cq8MFgEn0XM

[Mermaid Oshun]

nice touch recycling the Rapid booties

[Mermaid Julz]

sneak peek at the megafluke... its not painted yet.... but its almost all together....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2002-12-08120000_zps34d65fa4.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2002-12-08120000_zps34d65fa4.jpg.html)

[PearlieMae]

It will be so amazingly satisfying swimming in that beautiful tail!

[Mermaid Julz]

Today has not been a good day with this fluke..... first the center support brace where the strap hooks to snapped... I got that fixed.... installed a metal shaft into it. Then, I had one of the side posts snap. I drilled a hole through it and then a screw and a nut to put in place. So, Its holding so far. I will have to be very careful with it for a bit. I swear, this monofin has had so many modifications, its crazy. I hope I do not need anymore.

test swim will have to wait till tomorrow, but my shower can be used to test my drain ports in my fluke. hopefully I made enough of them.... Video to come later once final picture is touched up.

[Mermaid Kelda]

Damn, that's unlucky :\ ah well, think of how good it'll feel to finally have it finished! :)

[Miyu]

Ooh yay, custom monofin! :D

[Mermaid Julz]

So, its done.... Its all ready to be attached to the body and painted. I was curious so I went and weighed this thing.... The fluke alone weighs. 15.2 lbs...

My next fluke is definitely going to be smaller...

So, I tried a couple new effects in this video, and we have another Special guest via photo pop in.....


http://youtu.be/0HPL9MaypPI

[PearlieMae]

:mermaid kiss:

[Mermaid Oshun]

:clap::dance:

[Mermaid Julz]

I am sorry to say, but this project just got put on an indefinite hold. Due to issues I cannot speak of here, I will not be finishing this tail in time for merfest, and I will not be attending Merfest. Maybe I can make it next year some gathering depending on where I am. As of now, I am sorry, I feel like I have let so many of you down.... I have everything needed just would have to put paint on it.... When I can complete this I will let everyone know.

[MermanTyphoon]

I am sorry to hear that there are problems going on, i hope they get resolved in the future. Untill then, take care and don't stress about letting us down. Everyone has obstacles in their life.

Sent from my VS840 4G using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Oshun]

Julz you know you really don't have to paint it any more!! It is already tinted in the latex a beautiful rose color! A lot of tail makers just tint their tails and never paint them. So you can just put it on an wear it!!!

[Mermaid Tula]

Honey, we understand! Life happens, and we all love you and can't wait to see the finished tail, but we'll wait <3 If you ever need to talk, send me a message either here or my facebook page <3

[PearlieMae]

Oh Julz! I wish there was something I could do to help! I am so sorry you are having such a hard time of it lately!

Hang in there, baby!

[Mermaid Julz]

@MermanTyphoon Thanks for understanding. Right now I am in a bad spot with no solutions... this is not tail related... its Real Life related.

@Golden Pearl It has to be painted. I would not want to have this not painted. I want it to be as I envisioned it.

@Mermaid Tula thanks for offering to be someone to talk to. I will keep you in mind if I need to talk

@ PearlieMae I wish there was something I could do myself. I just am at a point in Real life I cannot... I wish that this was only related with tail stuff, which for once its not.

@Jessica thanks for the E-mail Jess, It truely showed that you are someone that cares about others. I also want to thank you for all the advice you gave me on things for the tail.

@ Mermaid Dan and Echinacea You two have been so wonderful to be over this whole process. I don't know what I would do without you on this project. I want to thank you for your contributions to the project.

To anyone else I have forgotten, I thank you for following along this journey making this tail. This has been such a wonderful experience for me. It just saddens me that I am unable to complete it right now. If for some reason I can, I will, but its not looking promising anytime soon.

[Mermaid Julz]

Ok, I made one last small video to explain, and really only explaining no work shown, how the next step will be done. I am sorry , but I have very little time free to do much with the tail, but I did want to get the general Idea out there how to connect them together...

So, here it is.....


http://youtu.be/lnlQ07pvsv8

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I decided to take a break from packing, and work on some small stuff to get my mind off things.... Here is what I am working on to go with the tail...

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/CAM00641_zps0731c6ea.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/CAM00641_zps0731c6ea.jpg.html)

[Jessica]

So pretty!! I love the color!

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I was thinking about this, and I wanted to give everyone a little something for Christmas that has been there for me, that has supported me and given me such great advice.

I know its not much, but I wanted to share this little video with all of you for Christmas. Its the only thing I could think of to give you all for being such great people.


http://youtu.be/A8co1dY6Q4Q

[Mermaid Oshun]

How sweet! God bless you and best wishes!
Have a blessed day

[MermanZen]

XD its sooooo cool cant wait till I see it in action good luck Julz

[Azurin Luna]

Looks very nice :) Merry Christmas to you too

[Mermaid Cascada]

It's beautiful! Merry Christmas Julz! I'm so proud of you!

[Mermaid Tula]

So proud of you and your progress Julz! Lots of love from us in the Tula household and have a Merry Christmas

[Mermaid Julz]

Paint, paint and more paint... Trying to finish before the move.... Paint, let dry, paint some more, let dry.... its an endless cycle..... here is a peek of how it is going.....

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/2013-12-28083843_zps3833ea9a.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/2013-12-28083843_zps3833ea9a.jpg.html)


http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0656_zps6a02494f.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0656_zps6a02494f.jpg.html)

hoping to be finished soon.

[PearlieMae]

Ooooh! The shimmer is lovely! Great job, Julz! It's coming out beautifully!

[Mermaid Oshun]

Such lady like colors Julz!

[Mermaid Cascada]

Pretty!

[Jessica]

Wow! It looks just amazing painted!! Are you using pearl ex?! I love the colors!!

[Mermaid Adriel]

it looks amazing! : D

[jazz2453]

Great job! Beautiful colors!

[Mermaid Julz]

Thanks everyone, I am working at it slowly through the night... airbrushing is sooo much faster than hand painting like I did as a kid for many a year...

@Jessica I am using the Createx pearlized paints. I love the shimmer, but to really maximize it next time, I will make sure ever surface has a smooth layer... some spots have that smoothness on the fluke, some don't...

@Jazz, I love these colors, and they are blending together better than I thought... I just love thee purple.... and the rose violet is starting to look more like a rose violet than how it looked mixed in the latex of pink... I would love to get that turquoise blue you have in your tail. I need to see if createx has anything close. Just know one thing... You rock with your tails. i love how they have come out.

and I have a secret addition to my fluke... it will be shown only when the tail is completed

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/IMG_270213002858519_zps23efc2ca.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/IMG_270213002858519_zps23efc2ca.jpg.html)

Here is the back all blended out... still needs a spritz of the yellow gold, but its done... now to get the fluk done on the backside, then finish up the front..

[Marlin]

O_O - THE COLORS.........

Awesome job Julz!

[MermanTyphoon]

Lovely!

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[Mermaid Julz]

BOOM! HERE YA GO..... another Video....


http://youtu.be/EI_6AzmHL5w

THANKS EVERYONE!!

[Mermaid Tula]

Juuulz! I'm so proud of you and your work! It's gorgeous! The hearts! So Cute!! It's seriously awesome!!!

[Mermaid Oshun]

I hope you enjoy it.5 Months of gr8 labor delivered this baby

[PearlieMae]

Congratulations, Julz! Looks absolutely wonderful! Thank you for sharing your process! You are an inspiration! :mermaid kiss:

[MermanTyphoon]

You an amazing tail maker and you should consider taking on commissions!

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[Mermaid Julz]

I almost forgot to post a pic of my Little trademark... this will be on all my tails.... my three little hearts....Red for women's tails(unless you get a red tail) and Dark Blue for men.

http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0666_zpsbc67c28f.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/SAM_0666_zpsbc67c28f.jpg.html)


@Merman Typhoon, All i got to say is....BLAM!!
http://i841.photobucket.com/albums/zz332/blazindizz/Tail%20stuff/Businesscardordered_zps916b6f70.jpg (http://s841.photobucket.com/user/blazindizz/media/Tail%20stuff/Businesscardordered_zps916b6f70.jpg.html)

We go Live January 15th if all goes as planned.

[MermanTyphoon]

Haha dang! My birthday is january 31st! Ill keep u in mind!

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[Mermaid Adriel]

Finally I can see this masterpiece :swoon: congrats!

[Mermaid Julz]

well, had the test swim tonight... it swam great... but the paint.... well, it didn't so much.... So devastated right now... No way I can get this tail repainted and ready by Saturday.... well, I can try, but I doubt it...... Gonna need to go get some clear coat to cover over the paint with... recommended by the guy that did the tail from Splash( I cannot remember his name)but he wanted to try and help. I thanked him for it....

So, sorry folks... its not looking good.

[PearlieMae]

Aw rats, Julz! I'm sorry about the setback! I hope you can find a workable solution!

[Jessica]

Julz,

I know you can get it fixed! :hug: Emma made a latex tail....maybe she has some ideas? She has a thread for her tail on here somewhere....

[emma11]

I think you're talking about me Emma? Haha.

Unfortunately with latex it fades like nobodies business. Mine went probably 5 shades darker every swim. It sucks, but that's why an airbrush is awesome with latex

I'm sure there's some type of sealer out there, I just haven't found one.

Star made a latex one too?? She might have found a sealer.


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[Mermaid Oshun]

that's why I told you to only use tinted latex as a colorant... not createx and water. That's what I had to do when I made my latex fluke last Summer Basically you had to put colored latex into the scale and fluke mold and be done with it. If you try to use a clear paint on top it will just peel off like a snake because it will not be at all flexible like the rubber

[Ariel-Starfish]

Wow u did a stunning job! I really did enjoy the videos u posted! :D

[Thessalonike]

I'm planning to make a latex tail soon. I'm going to mak the scales by pressing something into it. does anyone know what would be best for that? I've considered drywall mesh.

[Mermaid Julz]

Golden Pearl, I did lose some, and I know why. Thom Shouse told me just to make sure i heat treat it better, and then seal it with some clear coat. Its not permanent, but it will work longer. The paint on my fluke held up the whole weekend... just the body that had issues.

[Mermaid Julz]

Swim Videos are up.... But I will not publicly share them till one person sees them. Once she replies( I want her to be one of the first from Mernetwork) I will post here.

[Mermaid Julz]

Jazz, I would like to show send them to you also... butt your mailbox is full!

[Mermaid Julz]

ok... I got my reply.... here are two of the videos ( I am still sorting out others)


http://youtu.be/Ge_4XomyZc4




http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8mGP60UxQcU

[Mermaid Cecelia]

EEEEEEP!!! so exciting! the tail turned out awesome!!!

[Mermaid Dottie]

Despite your paint setback, dear, I think you did wonderfully. :)

[Mermaid Adriel]

I finally can see you in the tail *_* you're so gorgeous!

[Mermaid Oshun]

Epoxy paints bond well to rubber. I meant to post this in response to those looking for a way to paint there Oceanica merfins. Epoxy paint.

[Mermaid Julz]

So... I wanted to share a few things I have learned on the journey...some of which you may already know.

1. Read the forums thoroughly. Doing this I would of known about stretch house long before I ordered from them...
2. expect things to go wrong..... daily. I was faced with problems each day i worked on my tail
3. Ask for help. If not for Jessica, I would of been lost a few times.she helped get me through some rough spots.
4. Make your heel-side fluke to body piece thick! This area will encounter lots of bumps and bruises so to speak. if its too thin, you will start to get holes fast. I suggest at least 9 layers. I did 6 and its already showing the wear
5. HEAT TREAT! Createx paint without the perma wet will not last too long in water. Some people don't even like the perma wet. Make sure you heat treat it thoroughly. Thom Shouse suggested after painting hit it with a coat of gloss clear coat.(found in automotive paint area)
6. Don't rush, I felt under the gun for Merfest, so I rushed a few things. not to the point of a failure in the tail, but not being completely happy with the tail overall. then again, we all criticize our own work the hardest.
7. You must have fun while doing this. Without the fun, it makes it a dreaded day to have to go work on it. you should want to pump all the love and fun in your heart into this.
8. Don't be afraid to fail. We are not all good at everything! we will face ups and downs throughout life. Then realize its not a failure!!!! its just a way you tried that didn't work... which you learn from and move on.... so... CALL IT A LEARNING EXPERIENCE!!!!


These are a few things I learned. I know i didn't go into major detail... but if you have questions, please ask! it may be something I never thought of, and you could be helping me by asking!!!

I hope you all have a wonderful day...

[PearlieMae]

Brava, Julz! Excellent post!

(personally, I say "prototyping" rather than "learning experience"...sounds more...um...scientific.")

[Mermaid Julz]

So, I finally got around to gutting my fluke open to see what all went wrong. Seems every binding post I had used broke or backed out on itself. Mainly broke. I also had noticed some new cracks in the plastic of the rapid foot pockets I had salvage.

Well, I decided I was going to beef up the strength. I replaced all the nylon binding posts with stainless steel bolts and lock washers. I also added 2 new bracing plates to it which sandwiched the monoofin blade between them. I also used a waterproof adhesive to adhere the foot pockets to the top plate.

MY next tail, i will have the proper supplies. but, since i am limited on funds, I have to use what I can. I know people have suggested good things to use, but when you don't have the funds to get them.... you resort to the Marine philosophy " Adapt and overcome" " Use what you got, and use it better than those before you."

So, this is what I had to do. i know in time I will replace it completely with the right stuff, but as a prototype, it gives me the chance to tinker... find things that will work, things that won't and trail and error.

It took many many Mers at merfest to help me get this through my head (THANK YOU ALL!)

So, once I have a chance to test it, i will be doing so. Nice thing is I didn't have to drill any more holes!

[Mermaid Julz]

So, i also found a small hole. I patched it and made this video for you to see how to do it.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CrJZwy5L6dE

[Jessica]

Julz, you are so sweet to make all these videos to help other people making their own tails! :hug:

[MermanTyphoon]

You are so amazing when It comes to fixing! I wonder how many mers can actually do that.

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[Mermaid Julz]

You guys are too nice. I would do this for anyone and I am sure if you could you would too.

[MermanTyphoon]

You deserve it! You are the only mer i know who has done a fully detailed tutorial showing how to do it while also showing pros and cons.

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