Historic Plastic Models 1/35th scale Sd.Kfz. 231 6-rad
Here's the final installment.
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The model after a couple thin coats of Future and the decals applied. The decals were thick and fragile. It took Solvaset to get them to conform to some spots and care had to be taken to avoid breaking them (which a couple did.)
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Dot filtering was done using raw umber, titanium white, Prussian blue and Payne's gray oils. I usually do dot filtering directly over the paint (i.e. without a Future coat) because I think it works best that way. Applied over a gloss coat it seems to streak rather than influence the tint of the color beneath it. But, knowing what was in store for the vehicle (a heavy dust coating) I didn't think it was going to make that much difference.
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Following the dot filtering, a gradual build up of dust was airbrushed using Floquil mud from their model railroading line of paints. I always feel a bit hesitant piling on the dust or mud for fear of being accused of hiding mistakes in building but the reference photo I worked from showed a vehicle that was totally covered in a thick layers of dust. I actually toned it down considerably. After the dusting, I did some pin washes, minor pigment dusting and then Testor's Dullcoted the entire vehicle.
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I wish I could say this kit was a joy to build but it was pretty much the opposite. It was more like, "Am I ever going to finish this thing?" It came close to being bounced off the wall more than once. Granted, some of the issues were my own fault but the kit itself was hardly of Tamiya/DML, et. al. quality. As a limited run Czech kit from a decade ago it definitely had its faults: poor fit in many places, confusing instructions, overly-thick parts (the Eduard photoetch set really helps here) and poor decals. On the positive side, if you persevere, the results can be an impressive model of a unique vehicle.
I usually place my finished kits on a simple base with a figure but, as I plan to incorporate this one in a diorama, I passed on the base. I intend to add the 231 to a diorama including the Tamiya Stug III, Bronco Adler scout car, a knocked-out Tamiya French Char B and about a dozen figures. At the rate I'm working I should be occupied for the remainder of the year.
So, stick a fork in it because it's done. I enjoyed reading everyone's posts and seeing your builds. Keep up the good work and hopefully see you in another GB.
Dave