Just when you thought it was safe...another ESB paint up!

I started this a couple of weeks ago with the aim of a totally layered paint job, using AOSW as reference, and using a new base colour before the silver coat. This was the first colour to be masked ( after the L/H ear was finished and taped off) and as i'm only using the occasional pencil mark for guidance lines, this colour pretty much sets up the subsequent detail positioning...
Some of the areas remain masked until the final layers, those without grey oulines etc...

oooo, this should be good.......

Love the layering everyone is doing around here lately...

If its anything like your previous paintjobs, this is going to be excellent. Gonna be watching this one for sure:thumbup

ohh yes!

This looks nice. Please keep up the steps. I would love to see them.

Great start G... 8)
Was wandering when you'd post this...

Very nice!! Topical FTW.

woo

that rocks

Nice. Are you using a latex frisket for masking? Next time I'm down at the art store I have to pick some up. We have mustard on hand, but I don't think I want to do that to my Fett lid.

I'm using Humbrol Maskol, has just the right amount of opacity to allow you to check the details below the masking layer before you paint, Windsor and Newton make a similar product but the Maskol seems to peel off better, and is fine to leave on for weeks if needed...

oooh, that's looking pretty!

i'm growing increasingly convinced that i'll do another ESB one at some point and really take my time on it!

Originally Posted by terminal fettler

I'm using Humbrol Maskol, has just the right amount of opacity to allow you to check the details below the masking layer before you paint

Totally agree, very nice work bruv!

So is there a part where we see the white color?

Which colour are you referring to Seeker?

Is it not the first layer that you have used?

O.K. the first colour is an interesting one! I'm pretty sure on the whole helmet this colour only appears within the silver, with the exception of between the R/H upper/lower ear pieces and running down the L/H side of the key slots where some silver appears within this colour. Within the dent, for example it is left masked out until the final weathering/powder burns. Around the L/H base at the back it's also last to be peeled as it is against the blue/green; no silver outline. It took me ages to find a colour that resembled the silver tonally, so all but disappeared at certain angles, but showed up at others and reacted in the correct way against red/greens in various areas.

Very cool so far! Look forward to seeing more updates.

Originally Posted by terminal fettler

. . .It took me ages to find a colour that resembled the silver tonally, so all but disappeared at certain angles, but showed up at others and reacted in the correct way against red/greens in various areas.

Spidey, DarthMiller and I were talking about that down in Dallas at the JB Event. It is a really tricky effect to mimic!
It was weird because DM and I painted our helmets months apart, and wound up choosing a nearly identical color.

I'm with you there SJ! In fact you can see how green things can go on the MR helmet where the colour is almost flouro on the back R/H section...I think this colour behaves in a similar way to the base grey; which appears lighter against the red and darker against the green? Depends on the surrounding colour as to what tone it takes on: blue,grey,green etc...

Originally Posted by terminal fettler

Which colour are you referring to Seeker?

on the first picture with the white. it looks like you added the purple stuff on it too.

Originally Posted by terminal fettler

I'm with you there SJ! In fact you can see how green things can go on the MR helmet where the colour is almost flouro on the back R/H section...I think this colour behaves in a similar way to the base grey; which appears lighter against the red and darker against the green? Depends on the surrounding colour as to what tone it takes on: blue,grey,green etc...

Good stuff......that's been my contention all along..that the base colors really do effect the next color apllied when doing a layered method, in terms of tonality ....and more so with the silver.....topically it's easy to mimic the different tones and off colors the silver has, but 100% layered??...wow...all I can say is, you are in for a challenge...and I wish you luck TF...:thumbup..you are a bigger man than me...

knowing you though TF, If anyone can pull it off it's you....

This thread might be the first of it's kind, from start to finish anyway..

Originally Posted by SEEKER

on the first picture with the white. it looks like you added the purple stuff on it too.

The first pic is the base colour, then added on is the liquid mask ( purple).
Then the whole helmet is sprayed silver, then the silver is masked , then the grey is sprayed on, then most and some of the mask covering these colours is removed in preperation for the next colours...

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

...that's been my contention all along..that the base colors really do effect the next color apllied when doing a layered method, in terms of tonality ....

I don't think it's the colour below that matters as much as the colours next to each other?...

Just can't wait till I get mine!!

Is that your typical paint job or is this one ''special'' ??

Cheers!

Its only special in that i've included another layer, the light grey, first.
Previously i've added this colour topically...So i should, if it goes to plan, be able to add all colour by airbrush alone...

You done yet?

I wish. This is proving time consuming. Hopefully the purple goes on the mandibles/trim tomorrow...

These pics show the light grey, silver and dark grey details liquid masked, sprayed purple, then removed.
Some areas of masking remain on to be removed after later layers. I'm going to revisit the heavily detailed areas for additional layering...

I want to see it finished!

Good work TF

i've got to get some of that purple stuff. my clear latex is so hard to see!

G - You do some bloody awesome work mate! :thumbup
I'm gonna have to try this 'complete' layered type next time... 8)

I don't wanna highjack this thread but I received my cold-cast TF helmet today painted in ESB colors and I have to say TF's work is amazing!!! Simply put, it is the most stunning piece of art work I now own....

Cheers Garrett!!

Brian, if you're unable to see the clear latex, just mix in some acrylic paint. It won't take much, but will tint it enough to be seen easily.

That helmet is looking really nice, keep up the good work.


Robert

That looks awesome , I really love the second and third foto of post #26

Hey Garrett. I think there is something wrong with the lid you sold me, If you want you can just send me your lid as a replacement

Only kidding, the helmet I have is the best Fett item i own and the one you are painting is outstanding. Well done mate, you are an inspiration to us all

Ha! I'm not falling for that old chestnut! (what's your address Jon?)
Just been applying the red to the mandibles and trim...and had a PINK scare! I put a couple of extra layers on and i think that did the trick...just have to wait 24 hours before i peel off the mask...

O.K. Here's one of those rare instances where impatience is a virtue: removing the liquid mask after 1-2 hours is a lot easier than waiting 24 hrs! Gently rubbing over the surface with your finger actually smooths the painted surface as well as removing any liquid mask. My favorite detail so far is the first light grey colour which is just visible in the pics and blends into the silver perfectly but at the right angle stands out...

Just wow!

That is pretty!

TF is my HERO!!!....Dang bro....

That's just beautiful!!!!! I'm amazed!!!!

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

TF is my HERO!!!....Dang bro....

Does that mean i have to wear my 'Y' fronts over my trousers?
Just applied the black to the upper cheeks, i'll leave for 24 hrs and then mask for the green on the dome and lower cheeks.
Spideyfett gave me a good tip some time ago, i will buff the final painted surface with 0000 wire wool, this takes the texture away in some areas and seems to polish the suface deepening tones, giving it a slight sheen also...

Beutifull.....

The wire wool tip is great, I also use it in between coats, I find it helps bring everything together, looking fantastic!!

Can I touch the helmet? :o Good work TF!

O



M



G

If only my ESB paint-up looks that good, I will be the happiest man alive. Beautiful, TF!

Impressive. Most Impressive.

Just masked the silver and grey on the dome/lower cheeks. The whole helmet has been gently buffed with 0000 wire wool, gives the colours a nice sheen and reduces the raised edges between layers, also it exposes some real damage on certain edges. The red on the mandibles has really changed hew since i applied it, possibly the contrasting green and the buffing? The damage on the L/H lower mandible was done last after some of the green i use on the back was mixed with dark grey and applied...

Wow, there's a few less wrinkles in my pants, after looking at those latest pics.
Fantastic paintjob!

I want that helmet You have made an incredible work on that bucket TF. If You don't like the helmet, you can send it to me (for 0$, I'm poor ).

Only one word: PERFECT

:thumbup

Originally Posted by KaanE

I want that helmet You have made an incredible work on that bucket TF. If You don't like the helmet, you can send it to me (for 0$, I'm poor ).

Naw, you're doing it wrong...you have to say something like this...

"That helmet looks horrible, throw it out right now...in my garbage can here...gently place it in there, I will throw it out for ya."

Anywho, that helmet looks awesome. A very fine piece of art you have there

Outstanding work

It's alright...




















(JK) Stunning!

That is 101% AWESOME!!

Great AOSW helmet!! I love how it looks with the grey before the green is layered on!

Thanks for the comments...I'd probably give this helmet about an 85% so far, looks like i need to start another and refine the technique more... basically the idea behind the paint up was just for me to nail the process, only problem is you learn something new every one you do, oh well...

Originally Posted by terminal fettler

Thanks for the comments...I'd probably give this helmet about an 85% so far, looks like i need to start another and refine the technique more... basically the idea behind the paint up was just for me to nail the process, only problem is you learn something new every one you do, oh well...

that's how i feel about most projects i do... everything is always practice for the next one!

but seriously, if that's practice... i can't wait to see when you're happy!

Originally Posted by Satxer

Naw, you're doing it wrong...you have to say something like this...

"That helmet looks horrible, throw it out right now...in my garbage can here...gently place it in there, I will throw it out for ya."

You're correct, so... "I hate that bucket TF , so send it to me and I will burn it for you!"



Nice work TF

Stunning!! looks awesome so far. can't wait to see the end result.

How about I mail to a helmet to paint for me, just so you hone in on your skills

Awesome paint job TF!

Just applied the 4th layer to the back!

Man, this is turning out killer! Terrific work, TF.

Hey G.. you appear to have spilled mustard all over the back of your lid?? send it to me and I'll clean it up for ya! it could take a few years tho...

Thanks SJ, that R/H panel needed re- doing in areas, it's a nightmare! next time no free hand, i'll be working to pencil lines! I'm looking forward to scratching through the layers around the rim on the back to achieve the finer details...and toning down the 'cream' slightly...

Hey TF..Question: Do you find that the paint, as the layers are applied, are getting thicker?(well DUH)..and the levels can be seen, is what mean? and it's not as flat as you would like?? ....I mean I can't tell either way from your pics, but I may try this method one day and since you're one of the first to document this method step by step just curious as to the over all look , "in person".

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

Hey TF..Question: Do you find that the paint, as the layers are applied, are getting thicker?(well DUH)..and the levels can be seen, is what mean? and it's not as flat as you would like?? ....I mean I can't tell either way from your pics, but I may try this method one day and since you're one of the first to document this method step by step just curious as to the over all look , "in person".

Do you mean, is there a noticeable raise in the surface for each layer? Cause I was actually wondering that too.

Great work btw, TF. I'll be using your progress as a reference for when I paint up my lid!

Originally Posted by LostSonOfSparda

Do you mean, is there a noticeable raise in the surface for each layer? Cause I was actually wondering that too.

exactly... steel wool is a great technique to help flatten...but if you just break down the colors on the back alone, there will be a total of five layers, not including weathering...

don't get me wrong TF and I both agree that this is how the real one was painted, but replicating it is a whole other ball game....that's why I'm glad he's doing it and not me....patience...and I have none.
What's the old saying: "It's like watching paint dry"....to me that's the key to this technique.

Great work TF...:thumbup

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

exactly... steel wool is a great technique to help flatten...but if you just break down the colors on the back alone, there will be a total of five layers, not including weathering...

don't get me wrong TF and I both agree that this is how the real one was painted, but replicating it is a whole other ball game....that's why I'm glad he's doing it and not me....patience...and I have none.
What's the old saying: "It's like watching paint dry"....to me that's the key to this technique.

Great work TF...:thumbup

Oh ok, so there isn't supposed to be a noticeable raise in the thickness of the layers, from where paint has been scraped or chipped off?

Originally Posted by LostSonOfSparda

Oh ok, so there isn't supposed to be a noticeable raise in the thickness of the layers, from where paint has been scraped or chipped off?

that's all a matter of opinion i think

the screen helmet seems to be really subtle, thickness-wise. i usually do mine a bit heavier to emphasize the depth. i think it just looks cool up close, when someone is staring at it in person.

Originally Posted by LostSonOfSparda

Oh ok, so there isn't supposed to be a noticeable raise in the thickness of the layers, from where paint has been scraped or chipped off?

That's the greatness of the ESB hero (IMO) that Joe Johnston painted.... he used this technique and yet acheived an almost flat finish.......that's the main reason I love the ESB over the ROTJ, not that they were painted different, I just feel the ESB hero is a peice of Art, and not a prop so much.

On most of the ref photos there aren't any real "noticable" raised layers or "Chipped" areas...but the end result seems as though that's the look he was going for.

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

I just feel the ESB hero is a peice of Art, and not a prop so much.

i agree totally!

and to get back on topic, this helmet is a prime example of the "piece of art" side of things

Originally Posted by tk7602

that's all a matter of opinion i think

the screen helmet seems to be really subtle, thickness-wise. i usually do mine a bit heavier to emphasize the depth. i think it just looks cool up close, when someone is staring at it in person.

Ah, ok! So then I guess in my opinion, noticeable depth is cool looking, and will add a little something extra to the look of it, when viewed up close.

Another question: If the last layer on top is clear gloss to seal it, will it take away from the noticeable depth?

Thank you guys, Spidey and tk7602, for that, and especially TF for the amazing reference found in this thread.

Originally Posted by Mojo-Fett

Hey G.. you appear to have spilled mustard all over the back of your lid?? send it to me and I'll clean it up for ya! it could take a few years tho...

Too much sun and vodka Gav?
Thats mayo not mustard!

Originally Posted by LostSonOfSparda

Another question: If the last layer on top is clear gloss to seal it, will it take away from the noticeable depth?

As TK7602 said, not to take away from TF's thread, but I'm not sure why you would put a "Gloss" on the finish? I think a standard coat of dullcoat should work... but I see your point though......
My answer to that would be: "Terminal Fettler what are your plans for that???" ..cause I want to know too..

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

Hey TF..Question: Do you find that the paint, as the layers are applied, are getting thicker?(well DUH)..and the levels can be seen, is what mean? and it's not as flat as you would like?? ....I mean I can't tell either way from your pics, but I may try this method one day and since you're one of the first to document this method step by step just curious as to the over all look , "in person".

The layers tend to 'ramp up' around the liquid mask, as long as a sensible thickness of paint is applied ( i tend to go at least three layers, relatively heavy layers that is) then using 0000 wire wool blends these edges, not only are the paint levels evened but also the surface texture is uniformed to an almost satin sheen...

Originally Posted by terminal fettler

The layers tend to 'ramp up' around the liquid mask, as long as a sensible thickness of paint is applied ( i tend to go at least three layers, relatively heavy layers that is) then using 0000 wire wool blends these edges, not only are the paint levels evened but also the surface texture is uniformed to an almost satin sheen...

That is music to a painters ear!!! :thumbup..beautiful.

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

That's the greatness of the ESB hero (IMO) that Joe Johnston painted.... he used this technique and yet acheived an almost flat finish.......that's the main reason I love the ESB over the ROTJ, not that they were painted different, I just feel the ESB hero is a peice of Art, and not a prop so much.

On most of the ref photos there aren't any real "noticable" raised layers or "Chipped" areas...but the end result seems as though that's the look he was going for.

You are so right Alex! The ESB hero has so much detail its almost unreal! And one reason i like the AOSW helmet condition is that you would think the additional damage was intentional to the paint job and not from mishandling/stunt use: more of a challenge to replicate as well!

Originally Posted by Spideyfett

As TK7602 said, not to take away from TF's thread, but I'm not sure why you would put a "Gloss" on the finish? I think a standard coat of dullcoat should work... but I see your point though......
My answer to that would be: "Terminal Fettler what are your plans for that???" ..cause I want to know too..

There is absolutely no need to add another layer onto all the ones already there! Any unwanted gloss caused by 'wool buff' (for want of a better expression) will be lessened by weathering stages...

So you aren't going to put a final layer of sealant on top, to help protect it from more unwanted weathering caused by handling?

Originally Posted by LostSonOfSparda

So you aren't going to put a final layer of sealant on top, to help protect it from more unwanted weathering caused by handling?

Possibly after the weathering stages are applied, depending on if it's airbrushed or pastels; pastels then a clear coat obviously but all my previous paint ups have been airbrushed weathering so maybe no sealant...

Added the final layer to the back, possibly a smidge too green, i can hopefully deepen this tone with weathering. The wire wool rub down shows the colour below in places which works well, also started to add some of the finer scratches. Next onto the kill stripes...

Really good paint job TF! BTW, check out your time stamp!

Absolutely Stunning...!
Still need more practice??

I like the tone of the green back... as you stated, just some weathering and you're good to go.

beautiful work.

awesome! eventually i hope mine look that good!!

How come I've never seen this thread before?? That is AWESOME work, TF!

Uh oh...

I'm beginning to waver from the topical to layered method...

im with batninja, how did i miss this?!
AWESOME job on that TF!.......seriously one crazy layer paint up and it looks wonderful

This is turning out incredible! Hopefully my new MR looks half as nice when I start it!

Still think you need more practice...

WOW! This looks killer. Hope when i start a Boba it looks half as good. Good job!

.....The finished pictures will hafe to be turned upside down so they don't blow people's minds.

Just added the kill stripes, some powder burns to the dent and weathering around the rim. Detail in these areas was liquid masked to bring out certain colours...The final 4-5 kill stripes had a gloss coat added on top, the first 3-4 were attacked with wire wool to thin the colour down...
I've also started to add the finer details; using the end of a self propelling pencil (?) pushing or dragging the hollow nib gives some great results!

Wow, that is some fantastic work!

*Faint*

G O R G E O U S ! !

Wow, the subtle powder burns around the dent look great!

You know what I'm gonna say bruv... :thumbup

WOW!
A months worth of patience and time, is all it takes guys. This is absolutely unreal!!!
Just GORGEOUS!!!
I love the finished product, just blown away.....