Introduction of an Oceanic Predator

[Morticia Mermaid]

Imagine you're out diving on a reef, and you feel like you're being watched. You look around but, there is nothing there other than little fish. The chill you feel run down your spine because you KNOW something is there, you just can't see it.

This is the type of mermaid I am. I see a lot of pretty, fanciful mermaids. Not that there is anything wrong with that, it's just not my style. I love the dark and eerie, so its only fitting that I have designed my mer look to inspire the spine chilling creepiness. This thread will follow the construction of my entire look from head to toe, not just my tail (hope the admins don't mind I put this in the tail making section as it is the main part of the look).

Now, I know I don't have to say it but, I will say it anyways. These are my designs, please don't copy them or use them as your own. I have been working on this design concept for WEEKS. And I am honestly not just saying that. I have invested a LOT of time in these designs, and I'm still currently working on them.

First up, a black and white full overall of the tail design.
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Next, close ups to see each individual area's detailing better.
Fluke, obviously.
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Ankle/calf fins.
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Pelvic fins.
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Heel fins. I am debating redesigning them, I'm not sure if I like how they look currently.
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And scale design.
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Now for color. The first is a full overall of the fine detailing with colors, and the second is coloring of the tail body (left is front, right is back).
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Now, though the tail is the main part of the look, it is only HALF the look. Once I get design concepts done for each piece of the look, I will see about posting it in the thread. I will also make sure to share progress on its creation, and photos one it is finally completed.

Hope you all enjoy the wicked ride into the dark eerie depths, I know I'm going to... I'm drivin this crazy sub ;)


PS- I wasn't going to apologize for overly large pictures cause it's my thread but, they are bigger tan I thought. So, I do apologize. I'll make sure I downsize my pictures before sharing in the rest of the thread.

[AniaR]

Great fluke! I realllllly love spooky tails but I don't think one would work for my business. Hopefully one day I can do a spookie photoshoot though.

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[Morticia Mermaid]

I was debating starting doing kids parties but, I just don't think it's my thing. The events that I do, I can have my spooky look and still fit in great. Pirating events (doing 4+ a year), a fair thats up in washington (can't remember the name off the top of my head xD), and a couple local renn style fairs.

[Vixy]

That's awesome, I love spooky mermaids. What else are you planning apart from the tail?

[Morticia Mermaid]

A silicone top and several appliances (Keeping them under wraps for now while I'm working on the design concepts ^_^). Good thing I know my way around spirit gum ;)

[MermaidMichelle]

That is a nice, dark concept! :cthulhu: The fluke design reminds me of Merbella's new koi fluke (which is the one my tail will have), only more tattered!

I also like your writing style, and all told think you would go well with Daksoalsipha (the game had her swimming and running around this ancient city filled with genetic reconstructions of extinct lifeforms...yet they are all undead now).

[Morticia Mermaid]

Decided to share what I've got of the other pieces of the concept so far. Couple of them are rough drafts of sorts

This one I've been working on as long as the tail design, so it's a lot more detailed than the others.
Webbed fingers
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A couple top ideas. Neck strap of either cotton rope or fish netting. No "waist" strap, so it is held on with spirit gum. Really unique top idea, so should be interesting to try out
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And finally, full look (even though its rough atm) of all other appliances... unless I decide to add others...
Dreads, nose cover/gills, and fin like ears
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[MermaidMichelle]

Wow! You really have gone all-out! I considered trying webbed fingers myself (as the scale top will cause me to appear like some fully-aquatic creature rather than a hybrid), but decided against them because I will probably be working with children.

Those head fins remind me of another character I played; a succubus demon in her natural form (she could turn into a mermaid, naturally). In short, you are very spooky indeed! :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

:P Thank you! I've got a couple ideas for them that I am going to try out. One requires the use of spirit gum, the other does not.

My ideas for the tops is that they are fins from hunting kills. So I kind of want them similar to mine, being tattered and such, but different enough to know they are from another fish.

I've also got some star fish coming in from Mermaid Jessica (the tail maker), that I plan on attaching to my skin while mermaiding :) Kind of like picking up hitch hikers. lol!

[Aziara]

Love this! There's just something I love about tattered flukes and fins. How are you planning on making the finger webbing? That's something I've been mulling over trying to make too. Are you going to cast your hands?

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thank you all ^_^

That's a secret until I can try both methods and give results ;) And nope, I don't plan on make casts of my hands

[Aziara]

I can't wait to see what you come up with.

[OceanRose]

hitchhiker starfish!!! omg, that's so cute and inventive :-D I'm really inspired by this whole thread

[Echidna]

cool stuff!
:cthulhu:-sign of approval! :D

I like your mer description.
Admittedly, I already feel like this when I lurk on some pool bottom and see all the oblivious people stomping around above, especially when it's dark lol.

While we miss out on gig opportunities, being a darker mer has upsides too!

Like me telling a kid I had spied pissing into the pool "in this pool dwells a shark, and sharks can smell very well! It comes out and bites children who pee in pools."
When the parent then loudly started yelling at me, I merely said in the same tone, "and it bites adults who piss in pools as well!" which shut them up for good :p

[MermaidAllie]

Love the designs and idea! I'm not really the dark and spookie kind of mermaid, but I do like the scary beauty of sea monsters and dragons. I guess I'm more reptile than fish xD


@Morticia - I have an idea that you may like for your tail, I'll PM it to you :)

[Morticia Mermaid]

:) Thanks all! This look is going to be a pretty big project, and is going to require a lot of sculpting. I just really LOVE the darker aspect of mermaids. You know, the killer predators. So that's the aspect I want to run with.

Being a darker mer I might not be able to work with kids, yeah. But, it opens up a LOT of different avenues to be able to go down. Spook houses, I can still do my pirating events, and who knows maybe some corporate/businesses are looking for something a little more eerie for their parties ;)

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Ooo! Me too!

One day I will be able to swim like a pro, I can lurk at the bottom just out of sight and grab a swimmer by the ankles, give them a big tug and swim away very quickly, so they only see my fins and fluke.

And not one like a girly color like pink or purple, although I do like purple there's just too many purple mermaids already! They will see a dark and creepy shape swimming away.

[Mermaid Aalayah]

I can't wait to see this when its all done! I like to think of myself as a dark and scary mermaid, and I love to see other people doing it too:)

[MermaidMichelle]

Wearing parts of your kills as a top is delightfully morbid; you, Morticia, are positively primeval! :mermaid kiss: You're also very focused, considering that you aren't even distracted by things latching onto you!

I'm the only angel mermaid I have seen, though there are probably others out there. However, I am a fiery angel, and I hope that​ doesn't scare children!

[Morticia Mermaid]

Wearing parts of your kills as a top is delightfully morbid; you, Morticia, are positively primeval! :mermaid kiss: You're also very focused, considering that you aren't even distracted by things latching onto you!

I'm the only angel mermaid I have seen, though there are probably others out there. However, I am a fiery angel, and I hope that​ doesn't scare children!

:mermaid kiss: Thanks ya darlin. I tend to be rather morbid 24/7, have a morbid sense of humor too.

The type of mermaid I wanted to be got me thinking, they wouldn't have seashells covering their tata's. They might actually be topless, and since there is only 1 event where I could actually go topless I figured I'd need a top for the others and what a great way to tie in that I am a predatory mermaid. A predatory mermaid might sneak up to a reef for an easy meals, and like a lot of stalking predators it requires hiding and waiting and watching. During that time who knows, starfish could have crawled onto you. Plus... Who else has thought of randomly sticking starfish onto their skin to add to the look?

Though, I may need to name one or 2. Like Ariel has flounder, I've got starfish :cool:

Can't wait to see how your look turns out. And whether it scares children or not, there's always options :)

[Mermaid Jaffa]

You could add spikes to your tatas. Beads in the shape of a spike.

Something like these... They have longer spikes or short lil stubby ones too.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/103964031/czech-bohemian-12x18mm-glass-spike-beads

[MermaidMichelle]

:mermaid kiss: Thanks ya darlin. I tend to be rather morbid 24/7, have a morbid sense of humor too.

The type of mermaid I wanted to be got me thinking, they wouldn't have seashells covering their tata's. They might actually be topless, and since there is only 1 event where I could actually go topless I figured I'd need a top for the others and what a great way to tie in that I am a predatory mermaid. A predatory mermaid might sneak up to a reef for an easy meals, and like a lot of stalking predators it requires hiding and waiting and watching. During that time who knows, starfish could have crawled onto you. Plus... Who else has thought of randomly sticking starfish onto their skin to add to the look?

Though, I may need to name one or 2. Like Ariel has flounder, I've got starfish :cool:

Can't wait to see how your look turns out. And whether it scares children or not, there's always options :)

Real-life flounders are pretty freaky-looking fish, too...lol. Just be sure to give your sea stars spooky-sounding names like Viper, Lamprey, Kunoichi (female ninja), Algol (the "demon star"), Nergal, Flotsam, Jetsam, etc.... ;)

Merci for the interest and the reassurance that I have "options"! :mermaid kiss: I can't see myself working at a bar in Las Vegas (or ever appearing topless), but otherwise I'm fairly versatile. My dream is to be an aquarium mermaid (though not with cetacean nonhuman persons who should be free), and being a tank mermaid or otherwise appearing at a Renaissance Fair is also high on my list. There is a picture in Raina's book Fishy Business: How to Be A Mermaid that shows her in a large lobster trap; she is at a pirate-style festival and it looks like a lot of fun!

[Morticia Mermaid]

I like the sound of Algol. I may have to use that one :P

And pirating event's are a LOT of fun, not to mention the majority are more than welcoming of mermaids to the event. Last year we almost had people giving up their spaces just to be sure we had plenty of space to set up, even though I paid for a space more than large enough (was large enough to set up our pool, a merchant tent AND 2 camping tents for us to sleep in... and we STILL had extra space)

[Seraphina Suds]

I love your sketches and the idea you have planned~ my character design also has fin like ears and I was eventually going to work on making my own, but I got a pair to try out for now:
http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/20/a8ysateg.jpg
Do you think you'd sell fin/webbed accessories once you get the process down?

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[Morticia Mermaid]

Possibly, but no guarantees. I'd buy a pair, but most are latex and I'm allergic

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Where did you buy those fin ears from?

[Morticia Mermaid]

You can by them online.

Update time: Getting excited. Shipping out an order next week, should be getting payment for it today or tomorrow. Know what that means? I'm going to be buying the box of clay I need to finish the fluke! I'm also going to be ordering a hollow back mannequin to get started sculpting my top, since I'll have a ton of extra clay left. Woot! currently doing a happy dance

Sent by star fish

[MermaidMichelle]

Those ear-fins have a realistic, eerily-understated look; nice!

Morticia, I am happy for you and hope you enjoy your happy dance! :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

Update- Clay is officially on the way!!! Should be here either thursday, friday, or saturday. So, sculpting is at a bit of a standstill until it gets here. Waiting to sculpt more as the fluke is a bit thinner than I would like, so the additional clay is needed to make it a bit thicker. (unless I get seriously bored and decide to use a big chunk of clay from the other half of the fluke)

Also, hoping I have some left over funds after shipping out orders today so that I can order the mannequin I found to start sculpting my top. Took a while to find one, because of bust size, but I found one that is perfect!

[Aziara]

Where did you find a large mannequin? The ones I find online are teensy weensy itty bitty, lol.

[Morticia Mermaid]

http://www.fullbodymannequins.com/

The one I'm looking to order is a DD chest size

[Aziara]

Thanks! I've been thinking about maybe getting one, but I wanted to be closer to 'average woman' size rather than 'model size'.

[Morticia Mermaid]

Yeah, check out the site. They have a bunch of different sizes, DD being their largest

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Update: my crochet hooks came in yesterday. I'm going to get started on my dreads while I wait for my clay to come in, which should be sometime this afternoon. Yay.

I'm making crocheted dreads cause they have a much more realistic look and feel to them. The reason I'm going with dreads for my mer look is cause I feel its how a wild hunter might have their hair. I'll post a couple pictures when I have a few done, never done them this way so its going to be a learning process

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Ok, let's see if it will let me post this time.

first dread is just about finished. Just set it and all that is left to do is clip the stay stands.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/25/uva2epan.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/04/25/u9e8e5yp.jpg

Really like how it turned out. Has a realistic look and texture to it. But I think I'm going to make themas bit thicker cause having that many small ones on my head would not only be heavy, but might look weird on me

Sent by star fish

[MermaidMichelle]

I think dreads are a nice way to go for a tropical huntress; the first thing I thought of was King Triton as he appeared in The Little Mermaid Musical. The Greco-Roman depiction in the animated film has too much of a jovial, fatherly look while the African-style Triton looks more powerful and threatening.

They look kewl so far! :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

Exactly :) plus I won't have to worry about my hair tangling in my accessories. AND I can decorate the dreads with beads and seaweed

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Update- THANK YOU JESSICA (the tail maker)! The extras you sent with my starfish added a great touch to some of my dreads. And the weight of them will be PERFECT for helping keep a couple of the dreads hanging down in the water, instead of them all just floating backwards while I swim xD

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Also, just about done with the fluke sculpt :D Busting tail to try and get it finished today! Hopefully set it up to mold tomorrow. Then to set to work on the scale sheet. Debating tossing the foam idea and sculpting them in clay once the fluke mold is done. Thinking the foam might end up being a bit too thick for my scales. We'll see though :D

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

I love love love this and you have some serious talent with drawing! Can't wait to see the finished look its going to be so great :)

[Morticia Mermaid]

:) thanks Isabel. The fluke design has changed a bit since I drew the design, but its still essentially the same. I'm going to take a picture before I start pouring the shell shock so that I'm not posting too many redundant progress pictures, lol

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

The more progress pictures the better in my opinion! :) it's always fun to see the progress to the end result

[MermaidMichelle]

Quite; it reminds us of just how much work goes into something like this! The weighted dreads look well, too; they give the impression that you have collected still more "treasure" in your hunts...and that not all of your prey has been simple fish.... :pirate::shark::pearl:

[Morticia Mermaid]

Lol. Ok, ok. You ladies twisted my arm enough. Here's progress so far. Back tracked a bit when I got my new box of clay, re-smoothed it out. I'm changing the inner detailing as what I was doing before just made the design too busy when combined with the tattered edge. after asking merchanic if it was I, I'm going to be doing detailing similar to hers but, not quite so soft looking. I want to maintain that rugged look.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/02/setazy6u.jpg

Also changed the inner ridge style. Instead of being peaked, I am rounding them to make them stand out more

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Took roughly 16 hours or so to back track and get to this point. Taking a break today for the sake of my poor hands. Even using tools I'm still getting blisters

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

Wow that looks great it's so symmetrical :)

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thank you :mermaid kiss: I tried hard. The outer ridges are a bit uneven (I'm a major perfectionist :headwall:)

[MermaidMichelle]

It looks really professional. I imagine that that base will be something which will easily translate to silicone?

[Morticia Mermaid]

Oh definitely. Plus with the way I'm going to do the detailing, I won't have to worry if a bunch of the detailing doesn't show in the mold, because there will be fewer lines

[JessieMermaid]

Very nice! Hope this fluke works for you!

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thanks Jessie.

Progress update- ridges smoothed and shaped and detail lines added to the first 2 sections.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/03/gu4ateru.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/03/uje5udu9.jpg

Really like the lines more this way than how they were before.

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Adriel]

good job! ;)

[JessieMermaid]

I do too. They seam more natural to me. I had a fish that had a similar line pattern....his were just a bit broader....

[MermaidMichelle]

Yes, they do have the look of a natural fin. :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

:) thank you all. Haven't had a chance to work on it this week, been busting tail on this headdress design trying to get it finished.

Sent by star fish

[MermaidMichelle]

Don't bust your tail on your headdress! (Sorry, someone had to say it...lol)

[Mertara]

oooo!! Following!!

[Ashe]

Oh my gosh you're at it again. I was already amazed by that seamless neoprene tail you did for Melu ages ago, but now you're really bringing out the big guns. And I love how you're not only creating a tail, but some other really cool looking accessories as well! I can't wait to see how this will turn out!!!

[Morticia Mermaid]

^_^ thanks. I'm planning in working on it, the fluke sculpt, more today. Want to get it finished so I can get started sculpting scales, cause that is going to take forever.

Can't wait until I can order my mannequin so I can get started on the top :)

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Woohoo! Only 3 more sections to go! Just finished probably the hardest part, the middle section. Spent roughly 2 hours bent over at the waist so I didn't muck up any of the lines I'd already done. Taking a break now cause my back hurts xD

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/07/agejadug.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/07/4ehyvy2u.jpg

Sent by star fish

[Mizuko]

Amazing details! :D

[Morticia Mermaid]

:D thank you!

Sent by star fish

[JessieMermaid]

Yay! Awesome work. Go rest your back girl, you deserve it. And a bon-bon.

[Morticia Mermaid]

Bonbons not really my thing. But, I am resting with a nice mixed drink and some gaming :) loving me some swtor

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Woohoo! Fluke sculpt is finished! Going to pour shell shock over it this weekend.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/08/quzetu6e.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/08/8e2apy5u.jpg

Debating getting started in my hip fins since I have then drawn out already

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Wesley]

Yay!


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[JessieMermaid]

So awesome! It always blows my mind when I see these amazing sculpts all these lovely creative mers do!

[MermaidMichelle]

Oh yes, you are one fighting fish!

Also, I appreciate your enjoyment of Star Wars: The Old Republic. I bought a friend an account with that back when it was brand new in early 2012! :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

:) thank you all! Hopefully setting it up to mold today after some cleaning. Going to wait until after the mold of the fluke before I start on the extra fins, that way I've got enough clay to make a barrier around the fluke

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Octavia]

The fluke looks AMAZING, Morti! And thank you again for the wonderful headpiece. ;;

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thank you :) and you're welcome! We'll have to see about getting you one of the new style for dry events. Its a bit heavy, not sure you could swim with it cause of your hair (even with Combs on it).

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Finally got some stirring sticks! First few layers if shell shock are down. Going to be putting siren a few more here shortly. Hoping to pull the mold by Monday

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/11/ynu7edy3.jpg

Fins crossed this one works better than the last one did.

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Wesley]

Good luck!


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[Morticia Mermaid]

Thanks! I've got all my fingers crossed

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Ok so, confession to make... I think I'm too scared/worried to try pulling the mold up :S

After what happened to the last one, not sure I could take that again... I've used a full large supply of shell shock AND a small one.

Don't know what I will do if anything happens to it. I can't afford to put anymore funds towards buying more shell shock (or any other materials other than what I already have).

So, everyone so far who has made a silicone tail, or a mold for a tail, how did you handle/get past that fear and worry?

[Morticia Mermaid]

Couldn't wait until tomorrow.

Step one- got it turned over

Step two- got all, or nearly all, the paper pulled off

Now for step three... Getting all the clay out. This may take a while.

Any scary movie recommendations?

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Forgot to add the picture

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/12/6y9amamy.jpg

Sent by star fish

[MermaidMichelle]

To quote a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle losing a 'life' in the arcade game, "Ah, Shell Shock...." apparently solidifies fairly well! Bonne chance on your feat of clay....

As for scary movies, I don't watch that many, but I did quite enjoy The Exorcist​ 17 years ago....

[Morticia Mermaid]

Clean out progress for tonight. Not even a quarter done and I've filled one clay box. How is it you always end up with more than what you actually used? (and yes its all pressed into the bottom if the box)

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/12/a3azaqy2.jpg

Sent by star fish

[Ashe]

Ahhhh so excited!! >_<

[Mermaid Wesley]

Id suggest melting it in the oven to get rid of the extra space (the monster clay not the mold!)


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[Morticia Mermaid]

I've been pressing it into the bid pretty hard, but I suppose done oven time won't hurt :)

Sent by star fish

[OceanRose]

OooOO lookin good!

[Morticia Mermaid]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/13/qa7a3u4e.jpg

Its getting there. Almost half done!

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

Looking good :)

[JessieMermaid]

Yay!!!

[Morticia Mermaid]

Just over half done. Trying to not feel discouraged

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/14/yqunevyt.jpg

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Wesley]

Kick its fins! You got this!


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[Morticia Mermaid]

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/15/qa3unyba.jpg

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Wesley]

Go go go!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Morticia Mermaid]

So, gotta redo my scale design. Was going to sculpt dragon scales in clay but, seems finfolk has just finished a dragon scale design. Don't want to be called a copycat, even though I already cut out 6 packs of foam sheets (last fall) before I had decided to sculpt them. Not really sure what I'm going to do now :/ no other shape will look as good with the fluke.

Feeling really discouraged now

Sent by star fish

[Merman Arion]

So, gotta redo my scale design. Was going to sculpt dragon scales in clay but, seems finfolk has just finished a dragon scale design. Don't want to be called a copycat, even though I already cut out 6 packs of foam sheets (last fall) before I had decided to sculpt them. Not really sure what I'm going to do now :/ no other shape will look as good with the fluke.

Feeling really discouraged now

I don't mean to be mean or rude, Morticia, and I apologize in advance for what I'm about to say but COULD YOU STOP with the copycat thing, please??
This is getting old and honestly annoying. Don't feel discouraged more than you already are.

Just because Abby & Bryn from Finfolk Productions are offering dragon scales shouldn't stop you from doing what you love, ok? You just happened to have the same project, I don't see a crime here. I'm sure you will find a way to make different dragon scales. So smile and just do your thing, girl.

[Morticia Mermaid]

I've seen things get blown up over being even remotely close. And since I plan on using the design on tails I'll be selling, I don't want random people coming along saying "you stole that design!". Seen it happen too many times

Sent by star fish

[Merman Arion]

I've seen things get blown up over being even remotely close. And since I plan on using the design on tails I'll be selling, I don't want random people coming along saying "you stole that design!". Seen it happen too many times

Let's put this another way.
Mike Van Daal and Raven do both tails with perfect rounded scales. Had any random people called them out for the similarity? No?

Then, why not the same thing can apply for dragon scales?

I believe SeaNymph made her own dragon tail with different scales but the theme was the same. Has she been called out because she had the same project as Raven who did one too? No?

Think about it.

[-Annwyn-]

Let's put this another way.
Mike Van Daal and Raven do both tails with perfect rounded scales. Had any random people called them out for the similarity? No?

Then, why not the same thing can apply for dragon scales?

I believe SeaNymph made her own dragon tail with different scales but the theme was the same. Has she been called out because she had the same project as Raven who did one too? No?

Think about it.


Well I think her design is great! She's put a lot of effort into it. Kudos to her! Go Morticia!!!! :D

[Morticia Mermaid]

OK, think about this- Believe it or not, I've got people messaging my FB page accusing me of putting Shelly out of business. That I stole her design and intentionally sold it at a lower cost (when i didn't even KNOW sometime else was making painted neoprene tails when I started selling then).

So yeah, kinda hard to not think the same thing, being accused of stealing a design, is going to happen again.

Sent by star fish

[Merman Arion]

OK, think about this- Believe it or not, I've got people messaging my FB page accusing me of putting Shelly out of business. That I stole her design and intentionally sold it at a lower cost (when i didn't even KNOW sometime else was making painted neoprene tails when I started selling then).

So yeah, kinda hard to not think the same thing, being accused of stealing a design, is going to happen again.

WHY do you care?? It's YOUR life, YOUR decisions.
These are just assumptions from bitter people. Don't listen to bullies and do your own thing. Every business has competition so Shelly better get her shells together.

Stop thinking too much about it.

[Winged Mermaid]

There were also those that spoke on behalf of Shelly saying that FishButts and several other tailmakers "stole" her designs just because they all used the same method of tailmaking (imprinting caulking with netting or mesh on top of neoprene)- which Mertailor originated and Raven was the first to make a tutorial for. And saying that I was trying to ruin her just because I posted the manufacturer of the large shell sequins. I commend them on being loyal, but they took it way overboard. Don't let people like that ruin things for you.

For mermaids in general (not just tails- all artwork, sculptures, ect), dragon-shaped scales are only second in popularity to round shaped scales (at least from what I've seen). They're extremely common, and honestly I'm surprised that no other tailmaker else has made them before. Heck mers even use scale mail accessories, which are that shape, becuase of the lovely scale shape. I think if anyone else called you a copycat for making a somewhat similar shape to a scale shape that's been in artwork for hundreds of years.. well then they have a massive stick up their butt and need to get over it.

I'm not saying you should or shouldn't do anything- that of course is your choice. It just seems silly to scrap something you've already put so much work into just because you didn't get done first. And again, the shape is extremely common. It's not like it's some totally unique shape (like the merbellas scales, with their inverted shape and specific markings). Anyway, just putting in my 2¢

[Echidna]

I know where she's coming from, as I've seen the discussions about "this and this shouldn't be done coz so-and-so did it first", but if it's something you invented without knowing someone else did something similar, you just gotta ignore it tbh.


Don't listen to bullies and do your own thing.

this.
it was your idea and your design.
if someone accuses you of something that's not true, you know better and don't listen to them.

[-Annwyn-]

For mermaids in general (not just tails- all artwork, sculptures, ect), dragon-shaped scales are only second in popularity to round shaped scales (at least from what I've seen). They're extremely common, and honestly I'm surprised that no other tailmaker else has made them before. Heck mers even use scale mail accessories, which are that shape, becuase of the lovely scale shape. I think if anyone else called you a copycat for making a somewhat similar shape to a scale shape that's been in artwork for hundreds of years.. well then they have a massive stick up their butt and need to get over it.



This.

There are only so many designs before someone has to reinvent the wheel, so to speak. Take heart Morticia, you're doing a great job! :)

[Jessica]

Morticia,
I love your scales:)
they look different than Finfolk anyway so honestly I wouldn't worry about it a bit! To a casual observer the scales may look similar, but anyone familiar with silicone mermaid tails will see the difference.

[PearlieMae]

Well, if I were free to say EXACTLY what I think I would say F*** everybody else, who gives a s*** if they call you a copycat, they can blow it out their a**es, and if they can do any better, then bring it, b*****es!

But that's just me. ;)

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

^agreed. Don't let a few people that are trying to be all high and mighty bring you down. It's your design that you originally created. We can see the design you uploaded and it was before anyone mentioned finfolk and their dragon scales. Do your thing girl ;)

[Starfrit]

Please don't worry about the scales too much, Morticia! :hug: Like Jessica said, your scales look different from Finfolk's so don't stress yourself out over it! As for the people getting on your case about supposedly "copying" Shelly... Ignore 'em, they're just bitter.

Just keep doin' your thing, and don't let negative people bring you down! We're rooting for you! <3

[MermaidMichelle]

Indeed we are. Personally I'm glad that profanity isn't allowed, because then it would be flung around casually like it is in so many other places. That is not to say, however, that such may not be understandable in this case!

I shall let you in on a little secret: after seeing Raven's Dragon Mermaid outfit I decided that I wanted a similar design for my scale corset. She informed me that such was OK due to the uniqueness of my design, but that she would need to do a special scale cast just for me, for her dragon scales are large frontal pieces which are more like plates, suggesting an older dragon with a very high Armour Class!

Thus we see the usefulness of not having one particular kind of "dragon scales" and allowing no others on the market. I would suggest looking at a lot of different dragon artwork for inspiration; particularly that of Dungeons & Dragons and even my own How to Draw A Dragon (from Kazdrea)​ tutorial on Youtube, for we have gone to particular trouble to ensure that each of our dragons are different from one another. Stay true to your dream and so too shall you be! :mermaid kiss:

[Mermaid Calah]

Morticia, I think the most important thing to think about is the fact that you should focus on your tail, and nothing else: How are you going to feel with your gorgeous dragon scales on? Now think about how are you going to feel, knowing your design was perfect to both your heart and your soul, and that you decided to change the dragon scales to something different, just because someone else might tell you "hey ur copycatting so-and-so"?

Ultimately, the tail will be worn and loved by you, and no one else. Don't settle because some hater wants to tell you that your design was stolen when you know darn well it wasn't.

[Mermaid Romy]

Morticia I think you're designs are amazing. Look at it this way: in any form of art; drawing, painting, crafting, even writing [especially writing] there's only so many NEW AND INVENTIVE THINGS you can do. People often say there are really only 8 basic types of stories.
No the point! The point it YOU are making this and this is YOUR tail and YOUR design and YOUR thing. I hope people don't give you too much grief because no one deserves that :C
On another note I AM HELLA PUMPED TO SEE THOSE WEBBED HANDS COME TO LIFE! I've done a similar thing for a cosplay before, but that was just with stockings so nothing special. Can't wait to see how you go about this!

[MermaidMichelle]

Precisely; you said yourself that your scales were somewhat different. Thus they are different ENOUGH already! :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thanks everyone who posted. I noticed a common thing in some that I need to address.

These scales won't be worn by just me. I am planning on selling silicone tails through my company, sirens calling, and I'm making several tails before beginning selling I have the process down. My tail is going to be the very first, and I've already contacted 2 others that I will be making tails for at no charge, 1 close by and 1 across the states- to ensure I've got the sizing correct.

I spent some time trying to redesign my scales and nothing looked right with the fluke. So, I will be sticking with dragon scales as I had originally planned last fall.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/18/atu6ubyd.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/05/18/e4anyper.jpg

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Wesley]

Those look great. I think they're plenty different from finfolk :)


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[Mermaid Jessica Pearl]

They look like quite a different take on the dragon scale in my opinion. And if anyone does have a go at you, just calmly and kindly show them the date of one of your posts on this forum!

[MermaidMichelle]

I also concur that they are different from the Finfolk dragon scales. Whereas perfectly rounded scales have an all-purpose feel that can work for fish, aquatic dragon types, etc. scales designed especially for dragons are likely to lean toward the more diamond-shaped scales of snakes. It would be crazy to only let one company have a monopoly on such a basic shape, especially when so many variances exist within it! :mermaid kiss:

[Mermaid Calah]

Oh, I'm so glad you decided to keep your original design! Those scales are breathtaking and I can't imagine your tail working with any others!

[Aziara]

You know what I think would look amazing with this character design? Some claws.... You could just stick them on with doublestick tape after you get your tail and finger webbing on. I found these here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/167653429/doobys-stiletto-matt-black-24-pointy?ref=sr_gallery_10&ga_search_query=black+claws+nails&ga_order=most_relevant&ga_ship_to=ZZ&ga_page=2&ga_search_type=all&ga_view_type=gallery
https://img1.etsystatic.com/030/0/8263548/il_570xN.589784251_o4zq.jpg

[MermaidMichelle]

I agree; they would be a nice touch for a killer! :mermaid kiss:

[Mermaid Wesley]

saw this and i was reminded of your badass scales :)21191

[Aziara]

What a gorgeous snake! The scales are quite similar too, which is awesome (It's like a dragon-snake, lol) I've never seen that before, what kind of snake is it?

[Morticia Mermaid]

Wow! The coloring on that snake is gorgeous! I may have to rethink my colors some

Sent by star fish

[Mermaid Galene]

That is the African Bush Viper (red phase). Not a snake you'd want to meet in a dark alley.

[Mermaid Galene]

My two cents about scale shape: In nature, scale shapes have evolved because they work, and they work for thousands if not millions of different species, all with a very similar scale construction. Fish and snakes and other scaled animals don't worry about whether their scales look too much like someone else's. Natural selection has chosen those shapes and patterns for their function. I think we mers, as imaginary scaled creatures, need to accept that form follows function (including artistic function), and there is going to be some crossover in design from one artist to the next. Let's stop obsessing about minute perceived similarities between artists' designs. Let's start celebrating the infinite artistic variations on a theme that we can produce; that enriches the whole community of mer artists.

[MermaidMichelle]

...The exception being the South-American Worry Fish, which is also prone to puffing itself up and then worrying that it is too fat and which I really hope I just made up....

In all seriousness, though, I agree wholeheartedly with Mermaid Galene's fine speech; there are a great many variations that can exist and we should all have the chance to be creative! To site personal choice, I'm content with rounded fish-like scales to go with my dragon-scale/shaped corset top as it gives more gentility to a look which otherwise might be all fierce and fiery (although there is another element to offset that which shall remain a secret for now....)

As for the red-phase Bush Viper and its effect on your colour scheme, remember that predators value concealment from their prey. The viper occupies a position where it could potentially fall prey to larger animals, however, and thus has adopted the bright colouration that screams "I'M POISONOUS EAT AT YOUR OWN RISK" as it has a poisonous bite with which to defend itself. Just some food for thought.... :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

Hey all. Updates will be slow for a while. If you caught my post in the Bitch it out thread, you'll understand the next bit. One of my crew has kindly offered the use of their spare rooms to my mother and I. So we have been working on packing as much as we can to be able to move at the end of the month, start of June. We've also been getting vehicles and such prepared for the move as well.

I'll be wrapping up the mold just before we move, though with current orders I'm working on I'm not sure I'll have time to work on it before we move. I have started cutting it and shaping my scales, they are currently stored in a box waiting to be set up.

we are hoping the move goes smoothly, though we have yet to tell him we are leaving. We're both worried about what will happen if we tell him before we have everything ready

Sent by star fish

[PearlieMae]

Don't tell. Leave a note once the last box is out.

[Mermaid Wesley]

Good luck, love. Stay safe <3


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[Aziara]

I agree with Pearlie Mae. Leave a note after everything is already done.

[MermaidMichelle]

I concur. You are in my prayer. :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thanks all.

Man things have turned around fast. Suddenly got swamped with orders for tails and accessories, and keep getting calls for people wanting to book me for events and photo shoots. So progress is going to be even slower lol. But its all good things :)

Sent by star fish

[MermaidMichelle]

Yes they are! It's easier to wait when we know that you're busy doing what you enjoy! :mermaid kiss:

[AniaR]

Hey Morticia are you still doing neoprene only tails I had someone ask on tumblr wanted to link em

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[Morticia Mermaid]

Yep. They might want to order quick though. Only have 1 slot left and a couple people I'm talking with that want to order

Sent by star fish

[AniaR]

What's the best place to link them your fb page?

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[Morticia Mermaid]

Yep. They'll get faster reply through Facebook

Sent by star fish

[Arejay]

I hear Halloween party in your future

[Morticia Mermaid]

Going to see if I can make time to work on cleaning more of the fluke mold since my wire for my jewelry has disappeared and I can't afford to get more :/

Sent by star fish

[Morticia Mermaid]

Just realized I haven't posted a more recent photo of progress. Fluke sculpt its nearly clean, and I've got sheets of clay ready to shape my scales.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/16/ema4e8yd.jpg

Going to try to finish getting it cleaned out today, taking a break from packing for a day or so (I'm the only one who can do any heavy lifting and my back is killing me. Everyone else is injured and has limited lifting abilities, so I've been moving 2 people by myself :headdesk: )

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[Aziara]

The mold is looking amazing! Go treat yourself to an Epsom salt bath. You've earned it.

[Morticia Mermaid]

The mold is looking amazing! Go treat yourself to an Epsom salt bath. You've earned it.
Thanks Aziara. Decided to get the rest of the clay out. Clay is out and its half clean. Giving my hair dryer a break for a while before doing more so it doesn't over heat.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/17/yje9any6.jpg

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/06/17/py2uhazu.jpg

Sent from my LGLS740 using Tapatalk

[MermaidMichelle]

That's an excellent idea; my hair dryer is still the one I got for Christmas in 1997 and it can get really​ hot very swiftly! I'm glad the fluke mold is finally clean and may I say that those scales look like real ones shed by a snake!

[Morticia Mermaid]

Wow. Been a while since I updated this. Got the fluke mold cleaned out, finally finished unpacking. Currently working on this-

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/08/a3a9ugyh.jpg

[Mermaid Wesley]

Looks great!


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[Mermaid Isabel(:]

Wow looks like real snake skin! It's perfect good job :)

[Morticia Mermaid]

Got more scales cut and placed. Need to go through and press them down but, it's getting there. Have an event this coming weekend, going to make enough to buy the shell shock for the mold.

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/14/uqaqyre2.jpg

[Morticia Mermaid]

Progress on this is slower than I'd like. I've been super busy with events and orders. But here's scale progress

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/28/ydeny7e7.jpg

[Mermaid Wesley]

Oh is your scale sheet going to be twice the width of an average one?
Edit: the board seems much shorter than I would expect which is why I would ask

[Morticia Mermaid]

Yep, it's actually much shorter. It's about 24"x4'. I'm going it this way for easier storage and transport. I can easily match up edged of scale sheets to make a longer sheet, but it's a pain in the scales to try to match up the sides to make it wider.

Plus a smaller sheet takes up less space, and when you are living in a roommate/apartment situation you save as much space as you can.

[Mermaid Wesley]

Oh alright :) it's looking fantastic btw

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thank you! :>

[MermaidMichelle]

I remember one girl being impressed that I drew each individual scale when drawing dragons as a teenager; sculpting​ each individual scale is even more impressive! :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

:) thank you! It's very time consuming

[Mermaid Clara]

wow! this is turning out great so far :)

[Mermaid Galene]

Nice! It already looks very snakelike.

[Mermaid Isabel(:]

I can't get over how perfect each scale is it's coming along nicely :)

[Moongazer]

I'm soooo excited to see where this goes!!

[Morticia Mermaid]

I can't get over how perfect each scale is it's coming along nicely :)
Hehe. Thanks. I'm glad they look it, but they are actually far from perfect :)

The rows are slightly crooked, and they scales actually aren't entirely smooth. Going to attempt to gently smooth them out before pouring the shell shock

[Morticia Mermaid]

I'm soooo excited to see where this goes!!
Thanks! I'm excited to get it finished. Ordering more shell shock for the scale mold this week

[Morticia Mermaid]

Well, ended up not getting to go camping today :( so decided to take some time and get some more rows of scales done

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/07/29/ababe4ez.jpg

[Mermaid Wesley]

Aw well at least more scales!

[Morticia Mermaid]

Yeah. Just sucks cause we were supposed to be camping on a beach :(

[Mermaid Wesley]

Aww bummer

[Mermaid Caspiana]

Update: my crochet hooks came in yesterday. I'm going to get started on my dreads while I wait for my clay to come in, which should be sometime this afternoon. Yay.

I'm making crocheted dreads cause they have a much more realistic look and feel to them. The reason I'm going with dreads for my mer look is cause I feel its how a wild hunter might have their hair. I'll post a couple pictures when I have a few done, never done them this way so its going to be a learning process

Sent by star fish

I think this will somewhat remind me of an aquatic Navi (Avatar). Love it! :)

This is amazing by the way... I can't wait to see how it turns out! I was actually thinking of a new concept. I mean, my tail is gonna be all sequins (iridescent, blue, and pink) but I was thinking of getting led lights to stick in certain places so it's like a seep sea creature. Plus I wanna get webbed gloves. I think I'll braid my hair in separate strands for a photo shoot. Idk. But good luck! I honestly am so excited to see this! :D

[MermaidBrandie]

I can't begin to tell you how excited I am for this. I love predatory mermaid tails, and am beginning to really dislike that almost all the scales available in tails are the round ones. I love Finfolk's dragon scales and I love these too!

[Morticia Mermaid]

That epic moment when you pull the initial dirty cast from your mold and it turns out looking this epic. Yeah, I'm stoked for this tail. Just gotta get another $100 to be able to mold the scales. Unless I can manage an impression mold of my scales into the clay, which would only be a temporary fix. Going to attempt an impression mold into the clay for my scales and see how it turns out

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/05/yne5ajy8.jpg

[Morticia Mermaid]

Can a mod please edit the title of this thread and add (Silicone Tail Journey) to the end. Thanks!

[Lostariel Telrunya]

You know, normally when a person pulls out their mold and it looks like that, they go insane and break down, but this is going to be SO COOL! Super excited :)

[Raayvhen]

I'm so excited for you!

[Morticia Mermaid]

You know, normally when a person pulls out their mold and it looks like that, they go insane and break down, but this is going to be SO COOL! Super excited :)

Thankfully this was just a dirty cast :) so it didn't have to be pretty/prefect, or even filed in all the way

[Morticia Mermaid]

Can't wait until I've got the spare time to pour the actual fluke halves. I'm super excited about this! :D

[Starfrit]

Even just the dirty cast look awesome! ;w; I can't wait to see how the proper casts turn out! <3

[Lostariel Telrunya]

Yeah, you should keep that cast! My comment was a compliment :) That is going to look fantastic with the rest of your getup!

[Raayvhen]

^^ I think it might be a bit hard to hide a fin with all the gaps and how thin it is.

[PearlieMae]

(on another note, I noticed this is your 1234th post) :)

23173

[Morticia Mermaid]

^^ I think it might be a bit hard to hide a fin with all the gaps and how thin it is.
This is just a dirty cast. I didn't fill the mold all the way. This is maybe half the actually thickness (probably thinner) it will be :)

The monofin I'll be using doesn't have ridges, so it's completely smooth.

Even just a thin casting, this was kinda heavy. I suck at guessing weight, but I'd say it was 3-5 lbs. So the full fluke when I finish it is going to be heavy. But, aren't most silicone tails kinda heavy?

[MermaidMichelle]

Indeed they are; a silicone tail generally weighs about 30 lbs.. That's as much as a Darkmantle, a darkness-producing monster found in the World's Largest Dungeon's first Region! I mention this because the Darkmantles look almost identical to the slightly smaller vampyroteuthis infernalis - the Vampire Squid - which is a real-world bathypelagic monster....

...In other words, I just gave the introduction of an oceanic predator.... ;) :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

Indeed they are; a silicone tail generally weighs about 30 lbs.. That's as much as a Darkmantle, a darkness-producing monster found in the World's Largest Dungeon's first Region! I mention this because the Darkmantles look almost identical to the slightly smaller vampyroteuthis infernalis - the Vampire Squid - which is a real-world bathypelagic monster....

...In other words, I just gave the introduction of an oceanic predator.... ;) :mermaid kiss:
Lol. That's awesome

[MermaidMichelle]

Merci beaucoup! <3 :mermaid kiss:

[Morticia Mermaid]

So, I'm taking a break from painting tail orders today. I had all order slots filed so fast that I've been working weekend to get them all finished. It's time for a short break.

Trying to figure out what I'm going to do today, and I think I'm going to get started pouring the first half of my actual fluke today :) After I did the dirty cast the other day it made me really excited about getting the fluke done so I can get it painted. I'm going to tint the silicone so there is a color base, just in case I have paint scrape off after its been painted [emoji1]

[Raayvhen]

Every time you post in this thread I get excited to see what you have coming!

[Morticia Mermaid]

Every time you post in this thread I get excited to see what you have coming!
Awe, thanks :)

Guess what's curing!! ;D

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/08/qazuqeba.jpg

[Lostariel Telrunya]

THAT. LOOKS. AWESOME.:swoon:

[Starfrit]

:dance: YAAAAAYY I'm so excited! I can't wait to see how it turns out!

[Morticia Mermaid]

:) put down the final layer about 2 hours ago. Waiting for it to finish curing. I'm using 20 for the fluke and it takes 4 hours. I'm sitting here starring at it saying cure faster, lol

[Raayvhen]

Remember... A watched fluke never cures.

[Morticia Mermaid]

Lol, don't I know it. I've got my fins crossed that I mixed it thoroughly enough before pouring.

If not, anyone know if I'll be able to fix small spots? Like if I've got bubbles that just didn't cure cause they didn't mix. Or will I need to remake it?

[Morticia Mermaid]

Oh em gee! Look at it! It turned out awesomely!

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/08/utybahyd.jpg

I've only got one little bubble I need to fix that didn't mix properly. I THINK I can clean out the bubble really well and fill it in with silicone, then let it cure. Thoughts?

[Ilyena]

Syringes??? to put silicone into the little bubbles? Awesome so far (still love your scales and cant wit to see them done though)

[Morticia Mermaid]

Syringes??? to put silicone into the little bubbles? Awesome so far (still love your scales and cant wit to see them done though)
That's a really good idea. It's a really small bubble, about the size of the head on a q-tip. I got the uncured silicone cleaned out. So now I just gotta get silicone back into it. And it's only the one spot, so I know I just didn't get it mixed thoroughly (as opposed to a cure inhibition issue)

[Ilyena]

Should be an easy fix then ^_^

[PearlieMae]

Do you have some desk lamps or hanging lights you can put over it? I use the heat from 100 watt lightbulbs to speed the curing process...but not too close, using heat can also discolor (brown) your silicone, even though Smooth On says it makes it stronger.

Also, if you can get to it, just a blob on your finger smeared into the bubble should do the trick.

[Morticia Mermaid]

Thanks. Never would have thought of using lamps.

Here's a better picture with it off the mold

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/09/tapumava.jpg

[PearlieMae]

Niiiice!

Incandescent bulbs are getting harder to find...everything is LED or CFL and they are all cool! I get my old fashioned hot bulbs at the dollar store - for now!

[Mermaid Saoirse]

The fluke looks amazing! I've been lurking for too long, I must speak my mind!
I'm in love with how tattered the tips of the fluke look. It makes me imagine that the mer with a tail like that must wrestle with sharks or other sea life for fun. Keep up the amazing work you talented mer, you!

[Morticia Mermaid]

The fluke looks amazing! I've been lurking for too long, I must speak my mind!
I'm in love with how tattered the tips of the fluke look. It makes me imagine that the mer with a tail like that must wrestle with sharks or other sea life for fun. Keep up the amazing work you talented mer, you!
^ this. Thank you :) I'm going for a very predatory look. It's more me

[Morticia Mermaid]

Poured the second half today :) waiting for it to cure. Decided to add more of the colors to this one. The lighter spots are just plain silicone, had to fill in a few spots as it was a bit thin for my liking

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/09/bede2u6a.jpg

[Lostariel Telrunya]

That is so cool! I love it :)

[Mermaid Galene]

This is looking great!

[Morticia Mermaid]

Second half of the fluke is done! I'm super happy with how this side turned out!

http://img.tapatalk.com/d/14/08/09/tybuqu4y.jpg

Now just to order the mold material. Debating having another jewelry sale on all my premade stuff so I can afford to order it. I'm also going to be making a lot of new accessories to add to sell

[Morticia Mermaid]

(on another note, I noticed this is your 1234th post) :)

23173

Haha. Thanks Pearlie! I didn't even notice, and somehow missed your post before xD I think we ended up posting at the same time

[Morticia Mermaid]

So, question time. Anyone else who has made a silicone tail, or owns one, just sit there and play with the fluke cause it feels cool? Mine kinda reminds me of a bat wing, lol

[PearlieMae]

Hehehehe...I know what you mean! I slap my prototype fluke around all the time! sometimes I watch tv with it draped over my feet.

But I'm weird.

[Morticia Mermaid]

Lol. So glad I'm not the only one!

Started painting the fluke the other day. Have the first coat on the ridges of one half, I'll be doing the second in the next couple days. Then it will be time to start on the middles. I'd be working on both halves at the same time, but my work space is limited and I still need space to work on orders

23414

So much shimmer and sparkle :swoon:

Edit: this photo was taken AFTER it was fully cured :>

[Mermaid Kate Silverfin]

It is looking wonderful, I love the shape of your fluke and the pointed scales :)
May I ask a quick question about the painting process? I am up to the same point painting my fluke (also silicone), and like you I have poured pigmented silicone into the ridges, and it has overflowed a little. I tried painting over it (thinned silicone with pearl-ex pigments), but the darker colour still shows through. Do you have any tips you could share? Thank you!

[Morticia Mermaid]

I haven't had a chance to start painting the middle sections yet. Between orders, prepping for this weekends event, and prepping to move again i haven't had any time to work on this :(

[Morticia Mermaid]

Blah. All side projects are currently on hold. Currently have my orders maxed out, including a growing wait list. Packing to move into a new studio, albeit temporarily, and prepping to finally move to cali with my guy. Not complaining at all by any means. But definitely catching up on much lost rest/sleep while I'm babysitting my baby cousin this afternoon

[Mermaid Wesley]

Oh hey moving to Cali? Where in? We should have a welcome to Cali party with the pod :)


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[Morticia Mermaid]

:> thats sweet. Im moving to the northern san Diego area, close to miramar (hubby is a marine stationed on the base)

[Mermaid Wesley]

Well I'm close ENOUGH. La area. Yep. We should throw you a welcome to California party.


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[Morticia Mermaid]

:D that would be awesome. I'll be in my temp tail, still working on my sequin one (and this one)

[Mermaid Wesley]

When are you moving?


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[Morticia Mermaid]

Fingers are crossed by mid october

[Mermaid Wesley]

Nice! I shall begin the party planning you have no choice :)


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[Morticia Mermaid]

Lol! I have a feeling im going to love being in the cali pod :3
its so quiet up here in the PNW pod

[Miyu]

SO QUIET

*crickets chirping in background*

[Morticia Mermaid]

Moving is going to be a while longer than expected. As usual, something has come up and it's had to be put off yet again (this is only the 5th time this year that we have had to put off me going home so we can get legally married). Due to spattered 2 week deployments (DETs) over the next 3-4 months, and an over seas deployment next spring, looks like I wont be going home any time soon. 'Scuse me while I go cry some more.

Context- We've been together for 5 years now, all long distance with random 1-2 week visits once or twice a year and a 4 month period where we actually lived together before his enlisting.

[Mermaid Wesley]

*mermaid hugs* I'm sorry :(

[Miyu]

:headwall:Goodness gracious I'm sorry... You two just can't seem to catch a break :( Aaannnd this is why I told Kylan I would not be so happy if he joined the military, besides I know he couldn't handle being apart so long. Are you two at least going to get to see each other anytime soon if they're going to keep you from living together?

[Morticia Mermaid]

Been a while since I updated here. Finally making progress again :D Slowly working on the clay scale sheet, they take a while to shape. And started on a simple plain "traditional" round scale sheet. Still working on raising/saving money for the mold material, fund raiser I did didn't even make it to half. But, not letting it stop me! Got a part time job (couple hours a week) to get enough fr the mold material, will have enough to do both sheets soon!

I've had a couple people contact me on facebook over the summer asking if they could buy just the fluke with a monofin (was kinda shocked about that), and wanted to see if anyone would be interested in that? If there's enough interest, I might start offering the flukes.

Anyways! I'll have progress of the scale sheets to share later tonight!

[Mermaid Wesley]

Keep it up!


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[Morticia Mermaid]

Wow. Looking at the pictures, I realized I'm almost half done with the clay sculpt! :D Anywho, progress photos!

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And the round scale sheet. Started this last night and almost half finished with it too!

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The round scales are roughly an inch across. Thought that would make a nice size for them.

[Prairie Mermaid Jamie]

This is amazing :jawdrop:
I cant wait to see more of this gorgeous creation!

I personally think there should be an option for just a fun fluke and fin. I dont recall ever seeing one before so you may have the whole market on that!

Which method do you prefer for your scales, clay or foam circles?

[MermaidBrittany]

it looks super cool! Very jealous of your skills. I think the dragon scales look amazing! I think its great how much patience you have, I would definitely have a hard time with that xD

[Morticia Mermaid]

Jamie- thanks :) just the fluke is definitely on my think about list. Both clay and foam are good. The foam are fast to make, but the clay allows more detail.

Brittany- thanks :) ive definitely been really impatient about getting these finished, right at 1 year of working on this. But the end is almost in sight!