The MLP Arena

Creativity => Customs => Topic started by: Griffin on August 03, 2020, 03:33:01 AM

Title: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 03, 2020, 03:33:01 AM
It's been a while since we had one of these!

What are you currently working on? How's it going? Feel free to discuss your current WIPs, plans for future customs, vent, share your success stories and tips & tricks, whatever comes to mind.

I have three ponies in progress at the moment. One is the Monochrome swap pony, one is for a private trade (just finished the sculpting on that one, I'm excited to move on to painting!), and one is probably the most dragged-out art project I've ever had, a custom I started in 2010. :rofl: I've shared some WIP pics of that one along the way, don't have one at hand to post here but I recently shared pics in some Facebook groups. As soon as I finish the sculpting on the swap pony I can streamline my process and prime all of them for painting. :)

I should also start designing a pony for a friend - I gave her a "gift card" as a birthday or Christmas present years ago, promising to make her a custom pony. She recently reminded me about this so I guess I must finally come through  :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ZeldaTheSwordsman on August 03, 2020, 03:43:00 AM
Let's see... I'm looking into prospective dolls to do a custom Danny that matches Megan and Molly.
My custom  Simon Belmon outfit and gear for Megan have stalled because I can't find the LEGO skeleton battle pack that has the mace ball I need to copy to finish the Vampire Killer
If scratchbuilt sets count, I've slacked off on the arcade.. And I'm currently looking at making the Sunstone Pyramid
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Moonbreeze on August 03, 2020, 05:05:04 AM
Griffin: Ooh neat! I still want to join a custom swap one day :) And lol, I had a deflock since 2016 (or so) and fi-nal-ly finished it this year. Hope you can finish yours!
ZeldaTheSwordsman: Cool! I'd love to see a Danny! :D

I'm working on a Butterscotch and an Applejack remix (both as G2s). I broke my bait's neckplug though >.<
Also interested in doing a Sweet Berry mash up! G2 and G3 mixed. But I need to figure out G3 Sweetberry's dollyhair match. So if anyone has any clue, I'd greatly appreciate it :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 03, 2020, 05:37:26 AM
Neat thread!

Griffin, I also have customs from 2010 but in my case I haven't worked on them besides the initial sculpting. I do plan to finish them someday...

I have a guy I started last December. His wings are done and the base coat painted. I need to airbrush the rest and never got around to it. I got an idea for another creepy pony last night! It'll be a bit before I can do anything though.

Last Black Friday/Cyber Monday I bought myself a little professional photo booth, it has mini spotlights and a small tripod and everything! :lol: I haven't used it yet but I want to rephotograph all my customs (and ponies). I also got a "small" spray shelter from Blick Art Materials with customs in mind. Except it's way too big for ponies. I can drape something over it to make the opening smaller. Anyway, haven't used that yet either :lookround:

Ooh, and I have to share a brush cleaner I found - The Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver. It comes in a plastic jar and it's amazing! I had a white synthetic brush that was dyed green for years and this stuff made it like new again. Highly recommended!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 03, 2020, 06:36:48 AM
^  Ooh the photobooth sounds super nice, BC! I should take some new photos of my ponies, too. Customs included.

I wish I could share more about the swap ponies but I don't want to spoil the surprise for my partners. My friend asked for some kind of a forest mage or druid, that's a neat idea! I haven't decided on the bait yet but I have some G1s I could use, people rarely ask for G1s in swaps. I was thinking Gingerbread, that's a challenging pose (one of my least fave G1 poses actually) but I think I could do something fun with those twinkle eyes. And because I'm a sucker for horns and antlers, I'm picturing large reindeer or wapiti style antlers... But that's about as far as I've got. Sketching the design is always a crucial step for me, as that's the first time the idea truly takes shape, and I haven't got round to doing that yet. If you have any ideas, feel free to throw them my way! Some sources of inspiration include customs by other artists - Lovelauraland's beautiful forest ponies come to mind, such as Celestial Sanctuary (http://fav.me/d5mjwtz) or Shishi-gami (http://fav.me/d4vxqoe), and the stunning Moriko (http://fav.me/d89ec5j) which PoD made for me in the Horns & Skulls swap in 2014.

Gosh now I miss all our retired customisers and other old members!  :cry:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 03, 2020, 07:40:51 AM
Gosh now I miss all our retired customisers and other old members!  :cry:

Same :( It seems those that didn't get out of the hobby are instead posting on social media sites. I know Instagram has a lot of "new" custom makers, either new new or ones I've never seen before.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: mlp4me on August 03, 2020, 07:47:26 AM
I'm dragging my feet finishing up a restore of Mexican Baby North Star. I just restored Mom Honeycomb and two Peru's. Cleaned & stripped my last dozen G4 bait bases and am hoping I can get back into the mood to work on them in the near future... I've thrown the towel in on G1 customs for this year, just restores.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 03, 2020, 08:15:39 AM
Gosh now I miss all our retired customisers and other old members!  :cry:

Same :( It seems those that didn't get out of the hobby are instead posting on social media sites. I know Instagram has a lot of "new" custom makers, either new new or ones I've never seen before.

I've been thinking about making an Instagram account for my customs but not sure about that... I'm not really looking for any "exposure" for my own work, especially now that I'm not taking commissions anymore, but it would be nice to be able to view some of the content. I'm not interested in posting photos of my personal life, and the self-promotion culture of IG feels alienating to me. But I know there are some pony customisers on IG and I'd love to follow some doll repaint artists, too. *shrug*

Mlp4me, sounds good! And kudos for prepping so many G4s at once. :O I've done two recently and even getting their heads off is such a hassle. I accidentally broke the plug on an Applejack I baited, it just snapped in half when I tried to twist the head off.

Then again, most of the G1 baits I currently have are already painted by someone and while it's great to have ponies which are clearly baity, I'm not looking forward to stripping the paint. :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on August 03, 2020, 08:24:33 AM
Got ponies to customise, and re root both customs and non customs

Working on custom Lego Mini Doll Figures (from the Lego Disney Princess, and Lego Friends Lines) for characters from Story of Seasons: Friends of Mineral Town. Got the characters for Karen and Popuri (got to paint the hair). I hope to get the Lego Disney Princess Storybooks of The Little Mermaid, Mulan, and Beauty and the Beast to make Yu who’s the younger brother of Ellie and grandson of Ellen (don’t know how to do her), Mei who’s Mugi (don’t know how I’m going to do him), and the Seven Nature Sprits (Cherry, Pumpkin, Sunny, Mint, Blueberry, Plum and Aqua). Working on making all of the places from the game (the houses, and Mother’s Hill).

Also doing Defenders of the Earth Lego Mini Doll Figures (got the base character for Jenna).

Making loom band bracelets.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on August 03, 2020, 09:06:18 AM
Oh this is a fun thread, thanks for starting it Griffin!  You all have fun projects, I love hearing about them.  And having a photobooth sounds nice...we have a huge one at work but I haven't thought about getting a small one for my own uses...hmm.

I've been working on several projects that I've meant to do for years - Baby Leapfrog that I posted awhile ago, G3 Munchy, and a Moondancer -> elephant heavily-sculpted custom.  Munchy just needs hair.  Ele-dancer is all sculpted and just needs painting, well she also needs some counter-weights put in her back legs, her trunk makes her ridiculously front-heavy.

I'm also working on my monochrome swap pony of course but I can't really talk about that too much.   ;)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Featherwurm on August 03, 2020, 10:57:22 AM
I've got two G1 baits who need finishing up;

One will be a strongly G1 influenced unicorn (symbols, hair, body, eyes all done to more or less match the Hasbro designs) with a theme of 'winter frost'.  It's taken achingly long to sunfade some marker stains off of her body, but she's almost done.

The other is a badly marked up G1 Parasol who will be getting a sculpted carousel saddle treatment.  I haven't decided if I'm going to try to match the Merry-Go-Round ponies or do something more unique (probably the latter).

I tend to let my custom jobs be influenced by what's wrong with the pony.  No hair but good body and symbols?  Alternate re-hair.  No symbols but good body?  Custom influenced by the generation of pony.  Nice hair but badly marred body?  Keep the hair, make a custom that utilizes the original pony's design somehow.  Totally janky?  How about a full body dye and a whole new look.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ZeldaTheSwordsman on August 03, 2020, 11:29:32 AM
@Griffin
Regarding stripping the paint, is it safe to use the Pine Sol bath method on ponies?

Hearing about the G4 customs people are doing is making me want to get back to the custom I was making from a redundant Rarity at some point.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 03, 2020, 11:41:05 AM
Griffin, I feel the same way about IG. I was on Tumblr for a while in the Sims community, posting my own custom content and stories and following some others. After a while it seemed all anyone cared about was reblogs and comments. So everyone was trying to out do each other and all the posts got very photoshoppy. I wasn't interested in how lifelike-swimsuit-model everything became. Then the blogs that kept doing what they always were stopped posting because they couldn't "compete" and no one gave them likes or comments. It was all very sad. I'm sure IG is the same way.

In other news, I have a TON of baits :lol: Mostly G3 and G1. I also have a bunch of ponies I dyed when I first got into the hobby... 10 years ago! Some of them are in good condition but others did not take the dye well. When I get settled in my new place I can't wait to get working again. There's an old project in my brain using McDonald's G3 ponies. I've never had the room to try it, but I will soon. Plus, if my winged guy turns out nice enough, I have some more G1 Big Brothers and could make a seasonal set. Hmm.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on August 03, 2020, 12:45:38 PM
Fun idea for a thread!
I've been wanting to try to make some glass eyed G4s for foreverr, and I came up with a concept for something. I've come across so many baity G4 recently that it would behoove me to make some eyes to get started, but I don't like mixing up such a small amount of resin at once. I should really get the UV resin I keep seeing instead of the one that just sits to cure. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on August 03, 2020, 05:26:20 PM
Let's see, a blind box that is going to be a kind of multi generational Minty.  A simple Lady Baby fireworks girl that needs hair.  Still working on a set of 10 gitd ponies with glow hair.  Several need hair, still need 2 baits but need to settle on a pose. A bit of a challenge as they are all g1 earth ponies and 2 in each pose.  Not a clue as to how that part came about.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 03, 2020, 09:13:38 PM
I'm going to make my own spin on the Hasbro GhostbustersXMLP pony using a G1 hqg1c big brother pony...he will have a sculpted jumpsuit, a Kenner RGB proton pack and glow-in-the-dark mane/tail elements. I wasn't happy with the official pony at all, and I think both franchises deserve better for a crossover pony.

Here is what the official pony looks like: visitors can't see pics , please register or login
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Mewtwofan1 on August 03, 2020, 11:17:05 PM
Not really an MLP custom, but I am currently working on an OOAK doll as a gift for a friend. I’m working on sewing clothes for him, but I’m still not used to working on such a tiny scale, and my hands are a bit large and clunky.
     Also waiting on a delivery of hair for another ooak doll.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 03, 2020, 11:38:48 PM
@Griffin
Regarding stripping the paint, is it safe to use the Pine Sol bath method on ponies?

Hmm not heard of that before. I don't think Pine Sol is available here. Acetone does the trick, it's just a tedious process.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: pandabear_chan on August 03, 2020, 11:53:06 PM
That is really a nice thread because it's lovely to see everyone has so many different projects on the table. Some pictures would be cool. It immediately makes me wonder whether it is worth to think about a "custom supplies" swap? I know that custom pony swaps take their time and lost popularity over the years but a supplies swap could be easier to do...

Ooh, and I have to share a brush cleaner I found - The Masters Brush Cleaner and Preserver. It comes in a plastic jar and it's amazing! I had a white synthetic brush that was dyed green for years and this stuff made it like new again. Highly recommended!

I use this (even though being in Germany) since 3-4 years and it is a wonderful product I can just recommend. It's getting almost everything out of a brush without leaving residues. I have another product for keeping the bristles in perfect shape but don't know its name currently.

On my table are 2 ponies for restoration - Quackers and Tic Tac Toe who just needs their hair styles now and then they're finished.
The next bigger project are 4 new Colorswirl Ponies with never used color combinations before. These are very time consuming and difficult since you need to do the base color leaving all the patches blank. Then you need to paint the patches and the symbols. But one is almost done - just needs his DS symbol, they eyes, the hair and another layer on their patches. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ZeldaTheSwordsman on August 04, 2020, 12:22:16 AM
@Griffin
Regarding stripping the paint, is it safe to use the Pine Sol bath method on ponies?

Hmm not heard of that before. I don't think Pine Sol is available here. Acetone does the trick, it's just a tedious process.
Indeed. The Pine Sol bath method of stripping paint is fairly straightforward: Dunk whatever you're trying to strip in Pine Sol or similar floor cleaner (anyone know what brands are available in Finland?). Let it sit immersed for a few days, then pull it out and scrub the paint off with retired toothbrush or the like while rinsing.
Notes:
* I believe finished paint is immune
* You will want to remove metal parts, since they'll oxidize during the bath.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heelys on August 04, 2020, 05:18:54 PM
I have a pair of customs that got lost in the mail, so I’ve had to start over from scratch making new ponies that fit the theme— I don’t want to replicate them, I want to stay OOAK. My first remake arrived at its destination today, so I’ll be starting on the second soon.

After that, I’m thinking of making a custom based on locations in the Kawaii Monster Café in Harajuku!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: gemini_pony on August 04, 2020, 08:16:10 PM
I have a couple things going.  I'm in the monochromatic swap. Also trying to make a scarecrow pony for Halloween but I'm having problems coming up with ideas on how to execute it if anyone has any inspiration.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 05, 2020, 12:13:10 AM
I have a pair of customs that got lost in the mail, so I’ve had to start over from scratch making new ponies that fit the theme— I don’t want to replicate them, I want to stay OOAK. My first remake arrived at its destination today, so I’ll be starting on the second soon.

After that, I’m thinking of making a custom based on locations in the Kawaii Monster Café in Harajuku!

What a bummer, they never turned up then? I remember you telling about this in the shipping delays thread. This is one of my biggest fears when shipping custom ponies! After all, they are unique creations and so much love and countless work hours were put into making them.

Gemini_pony, a scarecrow custom sounds cool! Do you want to make the pony itself into a scarecrow, or are you open to any options? Simply doing a scarecrow symbol, painted or 3D/crafted, seems like the easiest way to go about it. But a whole pony... I think a pony in a rearing pose would be ideal for something like that. You could even repose it - you won't have to worry about a seamless finish if you simply reattach the legs with wire and hide the whole body inside a tiny burlap sack. :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Strawberry Swirl on August 05, 2020, 02:04:47 PM
I should post a pic of my project bin, things have been sitting in there for years. Ha ha! A slow worker I am, but, it's always worth it when I do finish something.

Projects right now: Repainting FNaF Funkos. I have an OC I'm making out of  a Funtime Foxy and two Theodores becoming Bon Bon and Bonnet.
Pony wise, I picked up a couple Basic Fun rainbows, I'm going to use little adhesive pearls for their eyes a la TEs.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 08, 2020, 10:12:17 PM
I'm also going to make teeny tiny twin ponies for Halloween...looking forward to customizing tomorrow! :3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Roogna on August 10, 2020, 09:21:18 AM
I'm working on a few commissions and a personal swap. I have 1 halloween pony planned.

I share wip here https://www.patreon.com/roogna
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: mlp4me on August 12, 2020, 06:24:31 AM
Sooo.... I dragged my bag of sculpy upstairs and have started mixing some colors. I turned out the lights last night and you'll never guess...


I have two blocks of GITD white sculpy! Oh mylanta!! The possibilities now... I didn't know, it doesn't say on the plastic.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on August 12, 2020, 11:27:45 AM
Sooo.... I dragged my bag of sculpy upstairs and have started mixing some colors. I turned out the lights last night and you'll never guess...


I have two blocks of GITD white sculpy! Oh mylanta!! The possibilities now... I didn't know, it doesn't say on the plastic.
Isn't that the BEST!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Blackness on August 16, 2020, 03:37:23 AM
Great idea for a discussion Griffin ^.^ My customising barriers are mostly lack of time and creativity! I find my creative vibes come and go and there are times where I can't make any progress, so just take a break from it all. After a while ideas start flooding back and then I end up with multiple projects on the go.. It's reassuring to hear that some of you out there have WIPs that have been going for years as well :lol:

I've got a few WIPs at the moment, the Arena has inspired me to upload some photos. I've been working on this 30th anniversary Minty since the start of the year, recently finished repainting and varnishing the eyes and need to give her a new tail before I get started on sculpting. Not sure how the newer plastic of the pony will cope in the oven (polymer clay) but maybe one day I'll find out :satisfied:

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This pony is almost finished!! WIP since June. Her eyes have been painted and varnished (need better pictures, sorry) and faux amethyst crystals sculpted from polymer clay stuck to her body. I feel like she's not complete though, she needs something more.. Anyway she's back on the shelf with curlers in to set her hair until something comes to me lol, does anyone have any suggestions?

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Annnnd just recently stripped these two back and tried Rit Dyemore for the first time! Have absolutely no idea what I'm going to do with them yet, have heard the dye can fade and bleed over time so they will probably be safety stored for several months anyway.

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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 16, 2020, 05:02:30 AM
Blackness, I love the Amethyst pony! Maybe do something with her horn? Or some crystal bits by her eyes.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Blackness on August 16, 2020, 05:30:11 PM
Blackness, I love the Amethyst pony! Maybe do something with her horn? Or some crystal bits by her eyes.

Thanks! Some more crystals to/around the horn might be what's missing!! ^.^
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 16, 2020, 05:36:41 PM
Blackness, I love the Amethyst pony! Maybe do something with her horn? Or some crystal bits by her eyes.

I agree I love this one, I rarely see crystal/rock based ponies and it makes me happy!

Post Merge: August 16, 2020, 06:54:12 PM


In case the image won't go through: https://twitter.com/Warriorfeather/status/1295168706117419009/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/Warriorfeather/status/1295168706117419009/photo/1)

Here is a preview of my revamped Ghostbusters MLP crossover! His base is a HQG1C Celebrations Big Brother Pony, his mane and tail will be completely rerooted with GITD hair and green blends, his eyes and cutie mark will glow in the dark, and his entire jumpsuit has been sculpted with DAS air dry clay! He has a Mattel GB black proton pack that will be a saddle of sorts--it will be removable!

The little one I live with suggested he wear glasses, and I think I am all sculpted out for now, haha!

I might name him Spengs, after Egon Spengler.

In case the image won't go through, here is the link: https://twitter.com/Warriorfeather/status/1295168708352958465/photo/1 (https://twitter.com/Warriorfeather/status/1295168708352958465/photo/1)

These little ones will be perfect for Halloween, in orange, white and black! Their eyes and the eyes on their black cat cutie marks (painted on both sides!) glow in the dark.

I am hoping to get all of these done by Halloween time. Wish me luck!  :shocked:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 20, 2020, 08:08:15 PM
More images of the Ghostbuster WIP:

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My Twitter thread on this WIP:

https://twitter.com/Warriorfeather/status/1296607623735726080/photo/4 (https://twitter.com/Warriorfeather/status/1296607623735726080/photo/4)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 21, 2020, 12:25:41 AM
Looks amazing so far, ChocolateStarfire!

I don't have much of an update... have been working on my Monochrome swap pony and gessoed the two other WIPs while I was at it. But I still haven't got round to designing the pony for my friend, there's always something more pressing. >_<
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 23, 2020, 12:07:39 AM
Looks amazing so far, ChocolateStarfire!

Thank you! And believe me, I won't have much time to customize during the semester so...going to get more done tomorrow!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on August 23, 2020, 09:40:44 AM
I finally baited some G4 and popped the heads off of a few G3 I've had that needed rehairs. I'm lazily working on an Autumn Crisp G4 and am more intently working on an alt rehair for August something. The gemstone G3? August Baugust.
I need to figure out how to make my hair hanks clean after using them for one or two customs, it gets quite messy!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: RoseNoire on August 23, 2020, 10:49:13 AM
I'm repurposing one of my best customs because the friend it was supposed to go to is not my friend anymore. I'm making it into something that will spark my joy more.
I spent a lot of time and effort into it, but I don't have any regrets changing it for the better. \m/

For now, the paint has been stripped off. I still need to sand the body a little, because I've removed its wings so I need to make the back look smooth.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 25, 2020, 01:53:47 AM
I love how different the two customs that I'm currently focusing on are. :lol:

I'm struggling a little with this FBR, the colour is close now but still not exactly what I wanted. *pout*
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 25, 2020, 09:23:27 AM
I've got another idea for a custom. All my supplies are still in boxes and it's frustrating :P but at least I'll have projects to look forward to.

edit: This is what I've been doing since December. Well, I got this far in Dec and kinda stopped working on him :P His wings are painted now but I don't have pics.

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His body was dyed about 10 years ago but you can see it went uneven with time. I'm planning to do a FBR on him. Colors are going to be dark blue, black and silver. I'm thinking tipped dyed Moonlight hair? Or, perhaps I'll give him fluffy wool hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Blackness on August 25, 2020, 06:14:11 PM
BlackCurtains - those wings are STUNNING!!! I need to get around to sculpting a full set of wings like that one day! Might look at wings for my next project...

I've *almost* finished two ponies this week!

Had planned to start customise Tootsie next, sadly the bait has several highlighter and other stains on her body so she will be hanging out in sunlight for a while in the hope that may fade the stains. If not, I will need to get very creative to cover them all with polymer clay lol.

I've also received another request for commission and am seriously starting to consider buying an air-brush machine!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 25, 2020, 10:28:38 PM
BlackCurtains, your ponies are still awesome after all this time!

I'm glad so many of us are still around, making ponies! :3 It makes me happy.

I've been slowly updating my custom website during my downtime between classes I teach...I took decent photos with an actual camera lol

And I realized the other day that I've been dabbling in custom pony making since 2005...15 years ago?! Where does that time go????
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on August 26, 2020, 01:19:16 AM
I've got another idea for a custom. All my supplies are still in boxes and it's frustrating :P but at least I'll have projects to look forward to.

edit: This is what I've been doing since December. Well, I got this far in Dec and kinda stopped working on him :P His wings are painted now but I don't have pics.

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His body was dyed about 10 years ago but you can see it went uneven with time. I'm planning to do a FBR on him. Colors are going to be dark blue, black and silver. I'm thinking tipped dyed Moonlight hair? Or, perhaps I'll give him fluffy wool hair.
THIS kind of wing sculpting gives me all the green eyes!!! :jealous: :jealous: :jealous:
I WISH I could do such amazing wings!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 26, 2020, 08:40:00 AM

BlackCurtains, your ponies are still awesome after all this time!

Aw, thanks!

THIS kind of wing sculpting gives me all the green eyes!!! :jealous: :jealous: :jealous:
I WISH I could do such amazing wings!!!

It took a lot of trial and error to get here and tbh I'm still not entirely happy with them :P but thank you so much!

BlackCurtains - those wings are STUNNING!!! I need to get around to sculpting a full set of wings like that one day! Might look at wings for my next project...

You should absolutely try wings! Your sculpting is really good, any wings you make are sure to be amazing. If you want tips or anything, feel free to PM me. My inbox is always open and I'd be happy to help :)

Quote
I've also received another request for commission and am seriously starting to consider buying an air-brush machine!!

An airbrush will change your life :lol: I love mine and can't even remember what it's like to do a FBR with a brush.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on August 26, 2020, 08:57:29 PM
That Ghostbusters pony is gonna be so cool! 

And the wings on that boy are incredible!  Is that Sculpey, or something else?

Over here I'm finishing up my monochrome swap pony.  Other than that, I'm feeling the frustration of having multiple ponies in the works, but none are quite to the rehairing stage, when all I really want to do is rehair right now XD  Well, patience is a virtue.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 26, 2020, 11:19:50 PM
That Ghostbusters pony is gonna be so cool! 

Thank you!! :3

I'm in the process of rehairing him, and unfortunately I had to patch some sculpting near his tail after popping it in...*sigh* So I will have to repaint part of his jumpsuit, thankfully it didn't damage the entire sculpt nor the cutie marks! His mane/tail is mostly Doll Planet's Patronus mixed in with some Link (green haha) and Soylent Green (almost highlighter yellow/neon green tbh).

Patience is a virtue and unfortunately I didn't have it today, I really want to see this guy done haha aaaaaa well will keep working on him when I can :p I know how you felt today SunPony! Aaargh lol
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Blackness on September 01, 2020, 09:16:49 PM
Reckon I will message you soon for some tips BlackCurtains - I assume there is a lot of wire going on underneath those beautifully sculpted wings? They make your pony instantly majestic, can't understand why you are not 100% happy with them!! What clay do you use? Getting the wings secured inside the pony will be a challenge.. Have two bait ponies set aside to make wings for, just a matter of overcoming my own fear and hesitation lol...

Honestly the whole reason why I keep the original pony colour is because I personally don't like the look of a FBR done by brush. I'm becoming inundated with pink baits though, need to embrace FBRs somehow! Also, the gradient affects others can achieve with an airbrush are breathtaking, no amount of patience and make-up sponges can compare! Is it difficult to learn airbrushing techniques?

And hey ChocolateStarfire, great work on the ghostbuster suit! Looks sweet! Personally I almost always rehair a pony before sculpting - less risk of breaking your work. I use polymer clay but turns out that nylon hair can withstand being baked at 130°c quite well :lol:

In other news, I have finished two ponies in the past week, haven't had time to get decent photos of them yet. Started looking for a bulk lot of G1 baits for new projects and ended up buying a few others to add to my collection, whoops! :biggrin: Is it just me here in Australia or are G1 prices going through the roof these days? A real struggle to find anything lately!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on September 02, 2020, 05:36:46 PM
And hey ChocolateStarfire, great work on the ghostbuster suit! Looks sweet! Personally I almost always rehair a pony before sculpting - less risk of breaking your work. I use polymer clay but turns out that nylon hair can withstand being baked at 130°c quite well :lol:

Thank you, Blackness! <3 I haven't done a full sculpt like this before and I didn't think to rehair first so...live and learn! XD
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on September 03, 2020, 02:53:50 AM
Does anyone else have stories about customizing under quarantine? I started this thinking, "I'm gonna have so much free time to make art!" and finished like ... one project. And then I quickly lost steam. :lmao: Hopefully I'm not the only one with dreams bigger than her abilities right now! But I did get the chance to pick up a dyed bait I'd had for like, a year and a half, and finally finished him! Here's to hoping I can finish some more soon! :cheer:

I'm also wondering, if I dyed some baits around April ... would they be 'settled' enough to paint on by now, you think? Probably? Maybe? I'm so excited to work on some of these ponies! :heart:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on September 03, 2020, 10:33:51 AM
Does anyone else have stories about customizing under quarantine? I started this thinking, "I'm gonna have so much free time to make art!" and finished like ... one project. And then I quickly lost steam. :lmao: Hopefully I'm not the only one with dreams bigger than her abilities right now!

I started off strong, then kind of slowed down.  I have been going in to work more lately, so that's probably the reason.... But I've got about...five? ponies that I'm in the middle of right now.  Two of them are G4s and for some reason I dislike doing their eyes so that's what I'm stuck on.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on September 03, 2020, 11:33:08 AM
Me too. Started off wi loads of potential, but then a bout of depression brought me to a screeching halt. The thing which brought me out of it was a story I'm still working on... Custom Ponies are waiting until that's finished...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on September 06, 2020, 12:08:34 PM
I got Slimer done, and will get the Halloween kitten twins done as soon as I receive more hair in the mail...thinking about making a Janine custom, too, as I am going to be her for Halloween this year, party or no party! :3

I have a ton of baits to sort through, might get to that today, although it has been super hot here! Bleh! Hope you all are staying cool and safe!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on September 07, 2020, 01:48:28 AM
It's been super hot here too! I work on making my hair plugs outside, and I haven't been able to make any plugs for - gosh, at least a month now, maybe two! I'll miss the long days, but I won't miss the 100+ temps we're having out here, phew! :faint:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on September 08, 2020, 04:46:12 PM
Sorry for the late replies, I've been without internet.

And the wings on that boy are incredible!  Is that Sculpey, or something else?

Thanks! Yep, it's Super Sculpey.

Reckon I will message you soon for some tips BlackCurtains - I assume there is a lot of wire going on underneath those beautifully sculpted wings? They make your pony instantly majestic, can't understand why you are not 100% happy with them!! What clay do you use? Getting the wings secured inside the pony will be a challenge..

Is it difficult to learn airbrushing techniques?

There's a backbone (wingbone?) of thick gauge wire but the bulk is actually cardstock and masking tape  ^^; and no, they don't melt or burn in the oven :)

I used Super Sculpey on that guy. I also work with Sculpey III and Premo, depends on what I'm making.

Securing the wings isn't too difficult. I run the backbone wire all the way down inside the front legs. Then for balance issues I cram a couple 1/2 ounce bank sinker fishing weights in them. Then cap it off with Apoxie Sculpt. I also use some Apoxie on the inside where the wire pokes in. It's possible to do all that and still make the wings removable but I've been experimenting with a different way.

Haha, I'm rarely happy with my projects. In this case it's the top row of feathers. Real bird wings don't look like that. I've made a lot of wings but they're never quite the same. I'm still working on perfecting them.

Airbrushing isn't hard to learn if you can already draw and/or paint. It's mostly learning how to control the flow of paint. I have a Paasche double action (the VL-Series I believe) which is really nice. Well worth the investment.

In other news, I'm moved in to my new apartment. I've found about half my arts & crafts supplies so far :lol: But my work area is all set up! It will be nice when I unpack everything and can get back to work.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on September 10, 2020, 12:03:10 PM
Working on a Pony Life custom, finally. Working on the eyes and such now. I think I would love to invest in an airbrush in the future because my painting isn't the greatest and I would love to do really cool gradients easily.
Need to make some smaller brushes. :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on September 11, 2020, 06:47:45 AM
Oh, that is a fun thread.
So many great projects. Love the Ghostbuster Pony. And your winged Boy is stunning already, BlackCurtains.

I recently got distracted by Warhammer 40k minis. I'm a bit addicted to painting them. I'm making a Friendship is Magic Mane 6 Chaos Space Marines squad though. :D

Also I have some pony WIP: an Eastern Dragon G3 custom, a rainbow custom that gets a heavily sculpted diorama and a :muffin: Pony Peacock that is nearly finished.

Reading this thread makes me nostalgic again. I miss the swaps and chit chat. (My fault for not participating enough).
I need to kick me back into customising and to finish some ponys.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on September 11, 2020, 02:30:46 PM
Oh, that is a fun thread.
So many great projects. Love the Ghostbuster Pony.

Thank you, Puuush! I've missed the Arena and I'm glad to be back, and glad to see you and other pony customizers around! I miss the swaps, too...maybe one will pop up again someday! :3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on September 12, 2020, 08:30:52 AM
Also I have some pony WIP: an Eastern Dragon G3 custom, a rainbow custom that gets a heavily sculpted diorama and a :muffin: Pony Peacock that is nearly finished.

Those all sound really cool, I hope you will show us when you finish them!

I just finished prepping a bunch of g4 baits I had been putting off.  My fingers are sore from digging the hair and glue out of the insides of their heads  >_<  But I didn't cut myself while severing any of their neck plugs, so that's a win!  Gosh, talking about bait prep sounds so...violent/gorey  :lol:

I'm almost finished with a g4 Dancing butterflies custom, I just need to style her hair.  I have a boil-permed rehair I styled about 5 years ago that still has tight curls so I think I'll go with that method.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on September 13, 2020, 03:37:20 AM
Thanks ChocolateStarfire. I'd love to be part of a swap again. Maybe a holiday seasoned one. :D

As soon as I re-figured out how to attach pictures here, I'll show finished ponys and WIPs.

Hahaha, I can so relate to your prepping rant. Same here. Prepping baits is my least favourite part of customizing, but so rewarding when you have your blank pony to start painting. :heart:

Oh, G4 dancing butterflies sounds so cute. Can't wait to see her.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on September 15, 2020, 03:00:06 AM
Finally I figured out how to attach pics again.  :blush: (And sorry for double posting).

Here is the :muffin: Pony Peacock custom I'm working on. Nearly finished. I just need to re-assamble and style.
In the background you can see a finished Dragon Custom. Sadly it turned out sticky, so I'm experimenting with different sealants to get rid of that.  :huh:

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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on September 15, 2020, 03:10:10 AM
Both look absolutely stunning, puuush! I'm so happy to see your work again :hug:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on September 15, 2020, 03:32:12 AM
Absolute WOW Puush!!! I'm particularly in awe at the details in the Peacock's tail!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on September 15, 2020, 08:22:27 AM
Those both look awesome!  The level of detail!!

Regarding sticky customs: I actually JUST dealt with the same problem.  I think I hadn't let the paint dry long enough before sealing.  But I tried using a new kind of sealant over to of it, weeks later, and it seems to have done the trick - she is now totally dry-feeling.  The new kind I tried is Vallejo polyurethane matt varnish.  I brushed it on but apparently it can be used with airbrush as well.  Note that it is water based.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on September 15, 2020, 10:20:14 AM
Ah puush, it's so nice to see your work again! :hug: I really dig the dragon! I love that the eyes of the peacock feathers are also :muffin: Pony :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: mlp4me on September 15, 2020, 04:02:18 PM
Cute Puush!

Well, I've gone a bit sea pony crazy. Decided I want to finish up my adults, whether original or customs.

I'll be painting clam shells (purple in pic to be painted a lighter purple, green won't be painted) repro and originals will not be spared.

Customizing both ponies in the below pic (one to be white body ::gasp:: with red hair adult, the other I'm not sure yet).

Starlight studios conch shell set is on the way, I can't wait to see them in real life. I eventually will buy a second set to paint.

Another custom, ordered from Clipper the HQG1C gitd upward looking sea pony. There will be either a dye or fbr yellow with pink hair...

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Whew! This is going to be an INSANE undertaking!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on September 15, 2020, 04:30:12 PM
Puuush, I love your sculpted elements, the Muffins tail is beautiful, and that dragon looks so cool! <3

I've finished Janine, just need to seal in her paint and do some clean up...when I was painting her jumpsuit I thought of the Pink Ladies from Grease! LOL

I'm moving soon-ish, so I am hesitant to keep customizing...I do have a Jurassic Park themed boy in mind...but other than that...we shall see! :3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on September 17, 2020, 07:30:55 AM
Those both look awesome!  The level of detail!!

Regarding sticky customs: I actually JUST dealt with the same problem.  I think I hadn't let the paint dry long enough before sealing.  But I tried using a new kind of sealant over to of it, weeks later, and it seems to have done the trick - she is now totally dry-feeling.  The new kind I tried is Vallejo polyurethane matt varnish.  I brushed it on but apparently it can be used with airbrush as well.  Note that it is water based.
Thanks SunPony. I will try this. Fingers crossed.
I tested 4 different sealants under the hooves now and all turned out to be sticky. I have a feeling, that it is the plastic of the pony itself, as I had this problem with every single layer of paint. And believe me, there are about 5 layers of paint and now about 3 layers of sealant on this poor girl. :(

Ah puush, it's so nice to see your work again! :hug: I really dig the dragon! I love that the eyes of the peacock feathers are also :muffin: Pony :lol:
Hahaha! I'm so happy you realised that! :hugs:

Thank you all. It feels so great to be back and get the wonderful cheering and support of my pony friends. :heart:


Wow, mlp4me. That is a lot of work. Painting it white will need lots of layers. Can't wait to see them. :D

Oh ChocolateStarfire, a Jurassic themed boy would be sooooo coooool!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: mlp4me on September 17, 2020, 09:16:42 AM

Quote
Wow, mlp4me. That is a lot of work. Painting it white will need lots of layers. Can't wait to see them. :D

Decided that I'll actually start with a layer of white pearl. Knowing it spreads smoothly and can offer a reasonable amount of coverage in a few layers. Fingers crossed!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on September 19, 2020, 01:40:57 AM
Does anyone else have a hard time coming up with names for customs?

Sometimes the name comes easily, in a few cases the name has been the starting point for the whole concept. But sometimes (probably more often than not) I only start thinking about the name when it's time to show off the custom or ship it to my swap partner. Where do you get ideas for names?

(I may have spent some hours yesterday and today desperately browsing the dictionary for ideas :rofl: )
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on September 19, 2020, 06:13:32 AM
I like to take a feature from the custom and plug it into Google translate, cycle through languages until something sounds good. Like, one custom I made was a bat. Bats live in caves and the custom was like a mega bat. I came up with  Cave Master but thought it was too plain a name, so I ran it through the Romanian language and used that. Romania because Dracula and bats! :D

Or even simpler, flower or storm or whatever in a different language. Maybe it's a little lazy but it's worked for me so far, haha.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on September 19, 2020, 01:39:14 PM
Ooo, I like that idea. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on September 20, 2020, 01:12:57 PM
Thank you!

Suddenly, I want to make a bee pony.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on September 20, 2020, 06:33:55 PM
Those both look awesome!  The level of detail!!

Regarding sticky customs: I actually JUST dealt with the same problem.  I think I hadn't let the paint dry long enough before sealing.  But I tried using a new kind of sealant over to of it, weeks later, and it seems to have done the trick - she is now totally dry-feeling.  The new kind I tried is Vallejo polyurethane matt varnish.  I brushed it on but apparently it can be used with airbrush as well.  Note that it is water based.
Thanks SunPony. I will try this. Fingers crossed.
I tested 4 different sealants under the hooves now and all turned out to be sticky. I have a feeling, that it is the plastic of the pony itself, as I had this problem with every single layer of paint. And believe me, there are about 5 layers of paint and now about 3 layers of sealant on this poor girl. :(

I hope it goes well for you!  Do keep me updated, I'm very interested to see if it works for you, too.  I think Vallejo is a Spanish brand so probably you can find it where you are?



About naming customs...I'm afraid I'm not very clever about naming ANYTHING, so mine are pretty generic if I even name them at all.  The Google translate idea sounds pretty cool!  I might have to give that a try.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on September 29, 2020, 12:48:15 PM
Welcome back Puuush, it's been a little while since I saw your name! Your WIP looks fab, and I hope you can de-sticky that dragon pony, because they're lovely!!

I've finally got back into some work; making hair plugs! Since I use the knot and loop method, it takes foreeeeever, but I've got a good rhythm going! Listening to a podcast makes it go so much faster! I did red months ago, then I did orange two nights ago, and yellow last night! I'm halfway through the rainbow!!

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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on October 01, 2020, 06:45:20 AM
Thanks for the eye candy, Snapdragon! Knotting the plugs does take some time. When doing (adult G1/G3) customs I like to do the knotting first and the actual rehairing the next day, although I've sometimes done it all in one sitting. (But I was younger then, lol!) I typically use the rehair tool on G4 ponies, and since they have much less hair anyway I love how quick they are to rehair. But I'm still not willing to give up my trusted needle & thread method. I find trimming the hair afterwards difficult, and that's pretty much what has to be done when using the tool. And I don't like filling the heads with glue. Besides, knotting the plugs can be quite soothing and I enjoy doing it while watching tv!

I have so many ponies now that are either complete or will be complete soon, I can't wait to post pics! A couple will be offered as prizes for the Halloween colouring contest so keep your eyes peeled. ;)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 01, 2020, 07:24:27 AM
I used to do needle and thread, don't remember how to anymore :lol: I use the reroot tool these days, though a lot of my customs don't have hair anyway. I think I'm going to use wool or something on my wing guy and that gets glued.

Speaking of my wing guy, I still haven't uncovered him. I'm wondering if I put him in a box of customs. That would have made the most sense but for some reason I thought he was in a craft box.

I'm kind of nervous about using my airbrush whenever I get around to it. My compressor is small and shuts off automatically when it gets to the right pressure but it's still a little loud. I hope my downstairs neighbor doesn't complain... (though I could complain about her dogs barking all day too). I was thinking of running it when the lawn care people are here to mask the noise. Oh well, that's still a ways off. I need to find the darn pony first :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Primaltimediamond on October 02, 2020, 06:53:49 AM
I'm gonna attempt my first custom soon hopefully! I still need a few things before I can start, baby's first custom I'm very excited to start!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on October 02, 2020, 12:55:24 PM
I'm gonna attempt my first custom soon hopefully! I still need a few things before I can start, baby's first custom I'm very excited to start!

Exciting! Best of luck, I'd love to see pics ^^
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tornadoe on October 04, 2020, 07:35:31 AM
I need a pack of satsuma pony hair for a custom and both my usual suppliers are sold out (dolly hair & my little customs)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 04, 2020, 09:59:49 AM
I'm gonna attempt my first custom soon hopefully! I still need a few things before I can start, baby's first custom I'm very excited to start!

Hope it goes well for you!

I need a pack of satsuma pony hair for a custom and both my usual suppliers are sold out (dolly hair & my little customs)

RetroDolls UK/US has it! https://www.etsy.com/shop/RetroDollsUK?ref=simple-shop-header-name&listing_id=586121499
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on October 04, 2020, 12:46:30 PM
Ok, does anyone in the USA have a place that sells actual nylon that's currently active? Other than Dollyhair...Retro dolls looks like it's taking a while and is taking a break...if not I'll keep using TheDollPlanet but I wanted something more bouncy.
I beheaded some fashion styles and am thinking of what to do with them.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 04, 2020, 01:38:09 PM
I believe Dolltress has nylon. I haven't had a chance to order any myself but it looked promising.

edit: Actually, Dolltress looks to have the same stock as Dollyhair just with (mostly) different names.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on October 04, 2020, 02:01:48 PM
I completely forgot about Dolltress! I'll take a look!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on October 04, 2020, 07:26:03 PM
I'm turning a small baby doll into a zombie with glowing eyes.  Missing  few fingers and toes.  Going to glue a magnet to her bum and stick her on a fridge.  Debating if she needs a little machete...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 05, 2020, 02:23:37 AM
You know you're going to have to post pictures of that XD And yes, little machete is a great idea!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on October 05, 2020, 01:12:35 PM
One of these days I am gonna figure a photo host thing and have lots of pics to post.  Size ref for my zombie:  stand her behind a coke can and she's a finger taller and about as wide.  Anyone know of any weapons that would fit?  Or suggestions on making?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on October 05, 2020, 01:41:41 PM
Oh, a machete would be great. :D Or a classic baseball bat with nails.

My dragon is still sticky. I think it's because of the pony's plastic. Every coat of paint got sticky when I let it dry and now every coat of sealant is, too. All the sculpted parts are fine.
Any ideas what I could do with it? I'm not happy to sell it in my shop because it's not my usual quality, but I also put a lot of work into it.
Maybe I could auction it?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on October 05, 2020, 03:56:54 PM

I've finally got back into some work; making hair plugs! Since I use the knot and loop method, it takes foreeeeever, but I've got a good rhythm going! Listening to a podcast makes it go so much faster! I did red months ago, then I did orange two nights ago, and yellow last night! I'm halfway through the rainbow!!


I do this method, too.  So I have a bunch of colors already made up for when I decide what to create.  Right now I have about 9 more colors I want to get done before I sit down and do some serious customizing.  I steal the hair from other dolls like Strawberry Shortcake and Disney Princess Fashion heads.  It works well because the plugs are already sized out for me and I end up with loads of plugs.  I buy them used at the thrift store, usually for less than $3 each.  When I finish I'll have to take a picture of all the colors I've ended up with doing it this way.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on October 05, 2020, 05:15:30 PM
Puush is a genius!!!  There are 4 inch length baseball bats on eBay.  Texas Rangers seems appropriate.... 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on October 06, 2020, 12:24:34 AM
Puush is a genius!!!  There are 4 inch length baseball bats on eBay.  Texas Rangers seems appropriate.... 
:blush: Thanks. I can't wait to see it.

I started with the needle&thread method back in 2009 (wow). Went through a lot of dental floss because it was the sturdiest thread I could find and easy to get in the needle.
But when I tried the rehair tool I never looked back. It's just quicker.
Rehairing is not my fave part of customizing, but I have several friends who love doing it, so sometimes I can outsource for tea and cookies = win-win-cookies situation.

The thing that really gives me a headache is styling hair. I just can't really do it. Most of my customs have unstyled long hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on October 06, 2020, 07:20:37 AM
I started with the needle&thread method back in 2009 (wow). Went through a lot of dental floss because it was the sturdiest thread I could find and easy to get in the needle.

I've never used a needle.  I just use a push pin to get the hole a bit bigger and then put a loop of heavy fishing line through and use that to pull the plug through the hole.  The fishing line seems to hold up well.  I'm still using the spool I got when I started customizing years ago.  I'm sure it takes longer than a re-rooting tool but I kind of like the repetitiveness of it.  And I like that my plugs are good and secure even if I don't put any glue in the head to hold them in place.  My brushable customs can be brushed with no worry about pulling out the hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 06, 2020, 07:24:59 AM
Maybe I could auction it?

That's a good idea. As long as you're upfront about the stickiness, and I know you would be. It's a shame you couldn't fix it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: vampyrefay on October 06, 2020, 07:43:07 PM
i have 2 customs on the go, one is a black and orange "vintage" halloween pony, the other will be a transparent xmas themed snow globe
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on October 07, 2020, 07:16:02 AM
Oh, a machete would be great. :D Or a classic baseball bat with nails.

My dragon is still sticky. I think it's because of the pony's plastic. Every coat of paint got sticky when I let it dry and now every coat of sealant is, too. All the sculpted parts are fine.
Any ideas what I could do with it? I'm not happy to sell it in my shop because it's not my usual quality, but I also put a lot of work into it.
Maybe I could auction it?

Would putting on a layer of Model Masters (made by Testor's) Clear Acrylic help?  I think it comes in both gloss and matte.  I find mine at Hobby Lobby but I'm sure you can buy it online if you prefer that.
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I use it on various art projects, including vinyl figures, as a sealant sometimes when it's too cold to go out and use a spray sealer.  It dries hard and usually nice and smooth.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Blackness on October 07, 2020, 09:09:07 PM
Sorry for the late replies, I've been without internet.

And the wings on that boy are incredible!  Is that Sculpey, or something else?

Thanks! Yep, it's Super Sculpey.

Reckon I will message you soon for some tips BlackCurtains - I assume there is a lot of wire going on underneath those beautifully sculpted wings? They make your pony instantly majestic, can't understand why you are not 100% happy with them!! What clay do you use? Getting the wings secured inside the pony will be a challenge..

Is it difficult to learn airbrushing techniques?

There's a backbone (wingbone?) of thick gauge wire but the bulk is actually cardstock and masking tape  ^^; and no, they don't melt or burn in the oven :)

I used Super Sculpey on that guy. I also work with Sculpey III and Premo, depends on what I'm making.

Securing the wings isn't too difficult. I run the backbone wire all the way down inside the front legs. Then for balance issues I cram a couple 1/2 ounce bank sinker fishing weights in them. Then cap it off with Apoxie Sculpt. I also use some Apoxie on the inside where the wire pokes in. It's possible to do all that and still make the wings removable but I've been experimenting with a different way.

Haha, I'm rarely happy with my projects. In this case it's the top row of feathers. Real bird wings don't look like that. I've made a lot of wings but they're never quite the same. I'm still working on perfecting them.

Airbrushing isn't hard to learn if you can already draw and/or paint. It's mostly learning how to control the flow of paint. I have a Paasche double action (the VL-Series I believe) which is really nice. Well worth the investment.

In other news, I'm moved in to my new apartment. I've found about half my arts & crafts supplies so far :lol: But my work area is all set up! It will be nice when I unpack everything and can get back to work.

Sorry for the delayed response, been crazy busy lately and had almost no motivation for ponies lately...

Cardstock and masking tape!! Would never have guessed but that sounds far easier to work with than just wire. I've got two ponies set aside for wings, just haven't actually started anything with them yet. Partially lack of time and partially just daunted by the prospect of trying something so big and new!

Finished these two ladies several weeks back though!! Amethyst pony completed with some final touches on her head, next to the horn..

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Need to re-curl the green monstera ponies tail again but otherwise I'm happy with how they turned out. Thinking of doing a series of plant inspired ponies to go with monstera pony, maybe Australian plants next...

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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 08, 2020, 09:16:36 PM
Aaaaa I love the green monstera and the purple amethyst ponies, Blackness! <3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on October 09, 2020, 12:20:08 AM
They are both stunning, Blackness! :lovey:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 09, 2020, 01:54:30 AM
They are both amazing!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 09, 2020, 01:42:55 PM
Great sculpting!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 09, 2020, 02:32:59 PM
Love that amethyst pony!  It's my birthstone so I'm biased, haha.  But she's really beautiful.

This weekend my goal is to finish painting a g4 custom of cranberry muffins, and order a bunch of hair!  I have a few hairless customs sitting around and it's getting embarrassing for them I think   :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Primaltimediamond on October 13, 2020, 10:42:08 AM
I love the amythyst pony! the gems on the hooves is such a nice little detail.

So update on the custom progress, I got all I need, now the wait is on the bait pony, however because I wasn't sure if I was going to get that one I bought another one, same pony but this was a Hong Kong pony. Now since she better shape compared to the first bait I bought I might restore her, that will be for another topic XD

Gotta say say the prepration alone has already been quite the journey, I really hope I've not driven my friends crazy because I'm not talking about much else. This is something I've been wanting to do for years and now the moment is almost there and I'm so giddy! And I'm stoked many people are sharing my excitement, the HK bait is est to arrive between the 21st this month and the 10th of December, which is a very long time but she's already been shipped so I'm hopeful I'll get her soon, the other one has been send but no estimation yet



Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Featherwurm on October 13, 2020, 01:21:31 PM
I've got two G1 baits who need finishing up;

One will be a strongly G1 influenced unicorn (symbols, hair, body, eyes all done to more or less match the Hasbro designs) with a theme of 'winter frost'.  It's taken achingly long to sunfade some marker stains off of her body, but she's almost done.

The other is a badly marked up G1 Parasol who will be getting a sculpted carousel saddle treatment.  I haven't decided if I'm going to try to match the Merry-Go-Round ponies or do something more unique (probably the latter).

I tend to let my custom jobs be influenced by what's wrong with the pony.  No hair but good body and symbols?  Alternate re-hair.  No symbols but good body?  Custom influenced by the generation of pony.  Nice hair but badly marred body?  Keep the hair, make a custom that utilizes the original pony's design somehow.  Totally janky?  How about a full body dye and a whole new look.

These guys are almost done, and I'm excited to show them off soon!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on October 13, 2020, 05:00:11 PM
Ooh I'm excited to see what you share, Featherwurm! :heart:

I'm wrestling with a bait of mine; only problem I'm having is, is she bait enough to bait!? :lmao:

It's a Powder, and she's got some chopped-off hair, but it's not completely buzzed. Buzzed would be easier! But she's got a cute little flippy fringe, and a tail that's only been minorly trimmed. She's got pin-pricks sprinkled on her body, but otherwise she's very cute! So now I'm left wondering ... is it too cruel to give her a new mane and tail? Or will I regret chopping off her little flippy do?! She's got such an intense neck-crank action going on, the short hair kind of works, but the collector in me looks at her and says 'bait!' :P

I'm actually tempted to give her a whole new row of hair, and let the flippy do sit on top - kind of like a cheap set of extensions before they've been blended in, LOL! But that might just be hideous!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: mlp4me on October 14, 2020, 06:07:41 PM
Powder is common enough, I'd say make that sacrifice!

Shells are painted. Such a tedious process, 5 layers on each. Mixed all three colors.
Wish me luck, I'm going to attempt to seal them with testors dullicote spray tomorrow.

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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on October 14, 2020, 10:17:34 PM
Omg those shells look fabulous though MLP4me! Best of luck tomorrow! And thank you for the feedback, you make a good point about how common she is! 💖
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pheasant on October 19, 2020, 10:16:25 AM
Lots of great work in this thread!

I haven't done much customizing myself, but a couple of days ago I ran across my childhood Twinkles the Cat and ended up repainting her! Just need to seal her and she's good to go. :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 20, 2020, 04:19:38 PM
So, with Dollyhair out of commission and Retrodolls US seemingly working on restocking or something, I have recently ordered 2 kinds of hair from TheDollPlanet, and 1 kind from Dolltress.  The three are fairly different in texture/feel/appearance.  Would anyone be interested in a thread of photos comparing these types and descriptions of how they are to work with?  If so I could take pics and describe them as best I can, with dollyhair included as well because I know lots of us still have that floating around.

I'm thrilled to finally get a good amount of hair, I had...four? ponies sitting around bald  :lol:  Time for a rehairing extravaganza  :cool:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on October 21, 2020, 04:17:38 AM
So, with Dollyhair out of commission and Retrodolls US seemingly working on restocking or something, I have recently ordered 2 kinds of hair from TheDollPlanet, and 1 kind from Dolltress.  The three are fairly different in texture/feel/appearance.  Would anyone be interested in a thread of photos comparing these types and descriptions of how they are to work with?  If so I could take pics and describe them as best I can, with dollyhair included as well because I know lots of us still have that floating around.

Yes please! :frolic:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: LadyAmalthea on October 21, 2020, 04:19:59 AM
So, with Dollyhair out of commission and Retrodolls US seemingly working on restocking or something, I have recently ordered 2 kinds of hair from TheDollPlanet, and 1 kind from Dolltress.  The three are fairly different in texture/feel/appearance.  Would anyone be interested in a thread of photos comparing these types and descriptions of how they are to work with?  If so I could take pics and describe them as best I can, with dollyhair included as well because I know lots of us still have that floating around.

I'm thrilled to finally get a good amount of hair, I had...four? ponies sitting around bald  :lol:  Time for a rehairing extravaganza  :cool:

I would be interested...I'm looking to place a hair order soon (I too have several bald customs laying around just waiting on hair), and I'm weighing my options. Dolltress looks promising, but a comparison between different ones would be helpful. Most of my customs are restores, and I'm trying to find something as accurate as possible to the original hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 21, 2020, 04:31:28 PM
Okay I'll go for it and try to get it posted this weekend.  The three kinds are all notably different!  Most of the colors I got I was trying to match to Hasbro colors, so where possible I'll compare to original pony hair. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on October 22, 2020, 12:18:53 AM
Oh! I just started working with some of my Dolltress hair, and I can confirm it's identical to work with as the DH nylon! I've still got to try and curl it, but it's been lovely and soft putting into the head so far!

I'm also ordering a few colors I needed from the newly-reopened Custompony.com site, she's offering 10% off with code "oldstock" so she can move her old hair out to make room for new. I was hoping to try RetrodollsUK, since I've heard lovely things about her, but I struggled to find a color I knew would match for my tailless pony. NGL, I was swayed by the easy "here's what ponies this color will match!" list beneath the shade of pink I needed. I'm sure RetrodollsUK has equally great hair (and I'll be ordering from her later!), but I really struggled with their random selections of color. It was hard to compare all of the pinks! That said, I hope CustomPony will update her photos; they definitely look 10 years old, and it's hard to tell what the colors really look like! ^^;
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 22, 2020, 05:01:39 AM
That's interesting, the hair I got from dolltress has a different feel/texture than dollyhair...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: LadyAmalthea on October 22, 2020, 10:45:27 AM
Oh! I just started working with some of my Dolltress hair, and I can confirm it's identical to work with as the DH nylon! I've still got to try and curl it, but it's been lovely and soft putting into the head so far!

I'm also ordering a few colors I needed from the newly-reopened Custompony.com site, she's offering 10% off with code "oldstock" so she can move her old hair out to make room for new. I was hoping to try RetrodollsUK, since I've heard lovely things about her, but I struggled to find a color I knew would match for my tailless pony. NGL, I was swayed by the easy "here's what ponies this color will match!" list beneath the shade of pink I needed. I'm sure RetrodollsUK has equally great hair (and I'll be ordering from her later!), but I really struggled with their random selections of color. It was hard to compare all of the pinks! That said, I hope CustomPony will update her photos; they definitely look 10 years old, and it's hard to tell what the colors really look like! ^^;

Please let us know how you like the CustomPony hair if you can...I just looked at their site and am interested! I also liked the convenient 'match' lists she had.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 26, 2020, 11:04:44 AM
Is there a thread somewhere where I can put up hair color matches?  I know there is one specific to RetroDolls, but what about other brands of hair?  Or would this even be useful to people...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on October 26, 2020, 07:04:43 PM
I have glow nylon from custom doll hair AU on etsy.  More delicate than dolly hair nylon, tangles easier.  I think each strand is thinner which might contribute.  Looks awesome.  I have also gotten several colors from Doll Planet.  That stuff is melt in your fingers soft!!  It does not seem to style as easily as dolly hair, but I over did the mane.  For the pony I was doing, the sort of out of control look fits. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 26, 2020, 09:46:31 PM
I personally love the feel of Doll Planet's Patronus glow in the dark white hair--it is so soft! It was a bit wild and tangly, but that works to give my Egon Spengler pony a bit of a Fabio look! :lol:

Doll Planet on Etsy seems to be very reliable, and the colors of the nylon are nice. It's sad that RestoreDoll and some other sites have gone under, especially because their hair matches were so close to standard MLP hair! :/  I don't usually do Hasbro based customs, though...so...I'm not exactly an authority on these things...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: LadyAmalthea on October 27, 2020, 08:39:36 AM
Is there a thread somewhere where I can put up hair color matches?  I know there is one specific to RetroDolls, but what about other brands of hair?  Or would this even be useful to people...

It would be very useful indeed! If you or anyone else decides to start one, I'll be happy to jump in and contribute with any matches I find.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: vampyrefay on October 29, 2020, 05:04:28 PM
does anyone have a good clay feather tutorial? i'm in the middle of making my oc (my icon) and cant fid real feathers that i like or are sturdy
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on November 03, 2020, 03:28:58 AM
does anyone have a good clay feather tutorial? i'm in the middle of making my oc (my icon) and cant fid real feathers that i like or are sturdy
Hello vampyrefay. Wow, that OC looks cool. Long feathers may be a bit complicated. I'd use a wire as a "backbone" for each feather. Then I'd put a bit of cardboard or thick paper on it to make it wider and give the clay something to rest on.
I use Apoxie Sculpt, so the following is based on that type of clay. No idea how other clays behave.
Then I'd sculpt one side of the feather. Make a feather shape and smooth it out with damp fingers. To give it a smooth surface I don't use water, but body lotion. It keeps the modelling clay flexible but doesn't mush it to mud.
With a toothpick or needle I draw the lines on it and cut the sides with a hobby knife.
Rest the half-feather on a curved thing (pen, winecork) to give it a bendy shape and let cure completely. Then do side 2.

Hope this helps. :)
Can't wait to see the result.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on November 03, 2020, 02:25:30 PM
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:)
Was pretty easy to get her eyes out, I just need to touch up some of the rawer areas before I go ahead with what I was trying to do.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 03, 2020, 02:49:46 PM
I don't know if you intended it but that photo is pretty terrifying :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 10, 2020, 11:44:37 AM
Right now I’m working on a baby pony g1 custom with rainbow hair. I think I’ll do a glittery rainbow flower garden design on her!

Next I’m hoping to make an among us pony and vampire pony!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on November 15, 2020, 06:26:38 PM
I'm finally getting going on some more customs! I'm reworking some old customs of mine that have sadly started to fall apart over the years...and the Jurassic Park pony is being painted...he is a dark green with inset glitter and I don't know if magenta, yellow and light green would complement him at all...trying to go for the stripes on the Ford Explorer look...hmmm....
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 16, 2020, 02:26:29 PM
^ You could create a pallet with the colors you want to use and see if they look okay together.

As for me, I'm feeling the customizers' itch :lol: I'm gonna get my big wing boy out of storage and finish him. I'm not worried about airbrushing anymore. I can tell when my downstairs neighbor isn't home because her dog barks constantly. I'll just airbrush when she's gone.
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on November 16, 2020, 04:36:05 PM
^ You could create a pallet with the colors you want to use and see if they look okay together.

I found a few and it turns out hot pink/magenta is a good contrast to dark green, so the mane will mostly be magenta with highlights of yellow and green blended together! :3

Will try and work on the customs over the weekend...hope everyone's customs/WIPs are coming along nicely!

Post Merge: November 16, 2020, 04:36:52 PM

Right now I’m working on a baby pony g1 custom with rainbow hair. I think I’ll do a glittery rainbow flower garden design on her!

Cool! :3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Zapper on November 17, 2020, 10:22:28 AM
Drilling holes :lol:
No, seriously, have you ever worked on a pony that was so hard you had to resort to a machine to root them? That's what's happening right now.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on November 17, 2020, 10:45:56 AM
Does anyone have a good go-to they use for getting rid of glue inside of the heads? I'm trying to do something to a G3 but it's not panning out since I can't remove all of the glue.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on November 17, 2020, 11:28:14 AM
Going to make bushwollies from apoxi sculpt and when they’ve dried I’m going to sand them, then flock them.

Wounded my left index finger by re rooting ponies.

Got a whole lot of ponies coming from Etsy to re root or custom.

My Lego customs are on hold.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 18, 2020, 09:37:07 AM
Does anyone have a good go-to they use for getting rid of glue inside of the heads? I'm trying to do something to a G3 but it's not panning out since I can't remove all of the glue.

Acetone works well for glue. Soak a cotton ball in it and scrub in one direction.

edit: If the glue is pooled inside the head, you can actually pour the acetone right in, cover the plugs with your hand or paper towels and let the acetone sit for a minute, then scrape the glue out. Don't let it sit for too long though, because it could start eating the plastic. I've done this multiple times for massive glue globs.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on November 18, 2020, 10:53:13 AM
Three bushwoolies done (Pink, Red and Yellow). Run out of apoxie sculpt so now I’m using my air drying clay for the others.

Ordered more hair, so I’ve got the hair I need.

Have to order three ponies from Etsy so that I can knock those off of my want list.
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 18, 2020, 01:32:46 PM
Does anyone have any advice on rerouting the tail without zip ties? I’ve run out of zip ties and have a pony nearly completed. :(

Post Merge: November 18, 2020, 01:33:13 PM

Rerooting, not rerouting lol.
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on November 18, 2020, 02:09:56 PM
Does anyone have any advice on rerouting the tail without zip ties? I’ve run out of zip ties and have a pony nearly completed. :(

Post Merge: November 18, 2020, 01:33:13 PM

Rerooting, not rerouting lol.

You can basically use twist-ties instead of tiny zip ties.  Do you have access to twist-ties?
I've also done one with just dental floss before.

Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 18, 2020, 02:11:40 PM
Does anyone have any advice on rerouting the tail without zip ties? I’ve run out of zip ties and have a pony nearly completed. :(

Post Merge: November 18, 2020, 01:33:13 PM

Rerooting, not rerouting lol.

You can basically use twist-ties instead of tiny zip ties.  Do you have access to twist-ties?
I've also done one with just dental floss before.

I don’t think that I have twist ties, but I was wondering if maybe yarn would work? I’m attempting a perfume puff type of pony, so I’m using yarn anyway !
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on November 18, 2020, 03:59:53 PM
I have done yarn and several knots to hold tails in. 
For hard head rerooting I have put rice in a sock and nuked it.  Put the sock on the head to warm it and it is easier.  Not tried it with repainted though so not sure if that helps. 

Rainbow babies!!!  The world needs more of them.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 18, 2020, 05:20:02 PM
Another question, for the perfume puff pony hair you just brush out yarn hair gently, correct?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: blackbunbun on November 19, 2020, 02:05:32 PM
I've just started customising ponies again after about 10 years.  I'm working on some Borg ponies first. Then I plan on doing some federation ponies.  :biggrin:

Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 19, 2020, 07:25:17 PM
Working on a very magical pony! Any guesses? *hint* a lightning bolt scar and hooded cape.... :nerdy:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: LadyAmalthea on November 19, 2020, 08:46:10 PM
Working on a very magical pony! Any guesses? *hint* a lightning bolt scar and hooded cape.... :nerdy:

I'm excited to see pics when you're done...I'm guessing this pony may need a wand and a white owl as side accessories?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 19, 2020, 08:51:41 PM
Working on a very magical pony! Any guesses? *hint* a lightning bolt scar and hooded cape.... :nerdy:

I'm excited to see pics when you're done...I'm guessing this pony may need a wand and a white owl as side accessories?

Wand yes, as for the white owl, we shall see! :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on November 20, 2020, 02:38:54 AM
Working on a very magical pony! Any guesses? *hint* a lightning bolt scar and hooded cape.... :nerdy:

I'm excited to see pics when you're done...I'm guessing this pony may need a wand and a white owl as side accessories?

Wand yes, as for the white owl, we shall see! :lol:
NEEDS the owl!!! Come on, you can do it xxx
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on November 20, 2020, 11:12:32 PM
I got more WIPs going...my Jurassic Park pony is coming along well, and my Christmas themed big brother pony is, too! I made the Christmas pony a wreath and a harness with presents on it...it took me all day for both but progress has been made!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 21, 2020, 10:50:52 AM
Working on a very magical pony! Any guesses? *hint* a lightning bolt scar and hooded cape.... :nerdy:

I'm excited to see pics when you're done...I'm guessing this pony may need a wand and a white owl as side accessories?

Wand yes, as for the white owl, we shall see! :lol:
NEEDS the owl!!! Come on, you can do it xxx

I know!! But I’d really like to use something like a LPS owl (because of the huge adorable eyes) , but can’t find one anywhere. :cry: I’ll most likely make another with the owl and his bird cage! Just depends on if this one sells or not. Thinking of using some iridescent fabric for the invisible cape lol.

Another hint. The custom is a twinkle eye pony!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on November 21, 2020, 03:09:52 PM
Has anyone ever used many layers of clear sealant to create a 3D effect with the symbol(s)?

I'm thinking of trying something like this: full body repaint...2 coats of sealant...speckles of paint all over body...2 coats of sealant...symbols...2 coats of sealant. 

Have you tried something like this?  Do you think anything bad could happen with this many sealant layers, or this sandwiching of paint between layers of sealant?  Should I use even more coats of sealant between paint layers?

I'm using vallejo acrylic model paints and vallejo polyurethane matt varnish if that helps.  Thanks for any info/tips!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on November 21, 2020, 03:22:21 PM
Not a clue, but interesting idea.  Looking forward to others thoughts.
I suppose the G4 owl would be too small for Hedwig?   Oh bit might work for Ron's Pig? 
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 21, 2020, 04:42:00 PM
Not a clue, but interesting idea.  Looking forward to others thoughts.
I suppose the G4 owl would be too small for Hedwig?   Oh bit might work for Ron's Pig?

Hmm maybe it could work? I may make another in g4 form. This one is G1! He should be complete tomorrow. Can’t wait to share photos!

Post Merge: November 21, 2020, 04:42:54 PM

Has anyone ever used many layers of clear sealant to create a 3D effect with the symbol(s)?

I'm thinking of trying something like this: full body repaint...2 coats of sealant...speckles of paint all over body...2 coats of sealant...symbols...2 coats of sealant. 

Have you tried something like this?  Do you think anything bad could happen with this many sealant layers, or this sandwiching of paint between layers of sealant?  Should I use even more coats of sealant between paint layers?

I'm using vallejo acrylic model paints and vallejo polyurethane matt varnish if that helps.  Thanks for any info/tips!

Sounds interesting!! I thought that the only way to achieve this look would be with the clear glitter resin ponies.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on November 21, 2020, 07:32:52 PM
Isn't there a thick mod podge that sort of looks like resin? I wonder if you could use that to mimic the look, can't speak on the sealant.
Gonna see how well basic fun Gusty takes dye tomorrow.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on November 22, 2020, 05:14:42 AM
Isn't there a thick mod podge that sort of looks like resin? I wonder if you could use that to mimic the look, can't speak on the sealant.
Gonna see how well basic fun Gusty takes dye tomorrow.

Oh yeah, mod podge could very well give the look I'm going for!  Thanks for the idea!  It's thicker than the sealant I use, so it would give more dimension I think.  I wonder how compatible it would be with a layer of the polyurethane over top.  Maybe I'll practice on something else before I do the pony.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on November 22, 2020, 07:03:49 AM
Dimensional magic, that's what it's called...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on November 23, 2020, 07:11:20 AM
I have an idea for a custom Mr. Potato Head.  Has anyone ever tried that before? All Google searches bring up potato heads that look like they used sculpey or another clay to create parts/colors.  I'm thinking of repainting existing parts instead so that the pieces can still be swapped out.

Also, my friend asked me for a custom G4 pony.  She texted me that it needed to be blue with a dinosaur head.  She later caught what she'd asked for and clarified that the cutie mark needed to have a dinosaur head.  I told her that's what I figured she meant but if she really wants it to have a dinosaur head I'm sure I could figure out how to do it.  :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on November 23, 2020, 11:25:05 AM
I have an idea for a custom Mr. Potato Head.  Has anyone ever tried that before? All Google searches bring up potato heads that look like they used sculpey or another clay to create parts/colors.  I'm thinking of repainting existing parts instead so that the pieces can still be swapped out.

Sounds like a wild idea but I'd love to see it!

And lol @ the dinosaur head pony! :lmao:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on November 23, 2020, 11:39:26 AM
Basic Fun Gusty took the dye quite well, although it's a bit of a different tone than expected.
Sandstone would be an excellent shade for a gingerbread pony!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on November 23, 2020, 12:46:55 PM
Oh yeah, mod podge could very well give the look I'm going for!  Thanks for the idea!  It's thicker than the sealant I use, so it would give more dimension I think.  I wonder how compatible it would be with a layer of the polyurethane over top.  Maybe I'll practice on something else before I do the pony.
Mod Podge would work if you let the coats really REALLY dry inbetween. Else it might get milky.
I used Triple Thick Gloss before to glaze eyes and cutie marks that needed a bit 3D touch. Maybe that's something, too. :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on November 23, 2020, 03:38:12 PM
Oh yeah, mod podge could very well give the look I'm going for!  Thanks for the idea!  It's thicker than the sealant I use, so it would give more dimension I think.  I wonder how compatible it would be with a layer of the polyurethane over top.  Maybe I'll practice on something else before I do the pony.
Mod Podge would work if you let the coats really REALLY dry inbetween. Else it might get milky.
I used Triple Thick Gloss before to glaze eyes and cutie marks that needed a bit 3D touch. Maybe that's something, too. :)

I've been testing it on my "trial pony" that I keep around to test things on...it seems to be working okay but visible brushstrokes are an issue so far, so I need to keep experimenting.  Yes, drying with all those layers is something I am concerned about re: mod podge.  I'm glad it is cold out so with the furnace running its quite dry in my house... 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: The-Extravagant-Pony on November 23, 2020, 04:01:42 PM
Oh yeah, mod podge could very well give the look I'm going for!  Thanks for the idea!  It's thicker than the sealant I use, so it would give more dimension I think.  I wonder how compatible it would be with a layer of the polyurethane over top.  Maybe I'll practice on something else before I do the pony.
Mod Podge would work if you let the coats really REALLY dry inbetween. Else it might get milky.
I used Triple Thick Gloss before to glaze eyes and cutie marks that needed a bit 3D touch. Maybe that's something, too. :)

I've been testing it on my "trial pony" that I keep around to test things on...it seems to be working okay but visible brushstrokes are an issue so far, so I need to keep experimenting.  Yes, drying with all those layers is something I am concerned about re: mod podge.  I'm glad it is cold out so with the furnace running its quite dry in my house...

I’m glad that I’m not the only one that has a “trial pony” . Lol! :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 24, 2020, 07:35:02 AM
I had a Sunnydaze as my trial pony for a long time. She went through so much!

I've been thinking of doing a simple winter themed custom before I get back to the big wing guy. In fact, just now I had an idea for a symbol...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on November 24, 2020, 07:38:35 PM
I have a couple fakies for trial ponies.  I wonder if a pony would dry faster parked next to a dehumidifier?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on November 28, 2020, 08:04:09 AM
Just finished painting my custom yellow ponies (Milkweed, Tumbleweed, Bouncy, and Baby Tex) plush I completed the painting around the eyes of my custom Stargaze and Locket (Whizzer pose).

After dinner got to prime before painting custom Scribbles (Flutter Pony Rosedust bait), Princess Royal Blue (to match Baby Princess Royal Blue), Medley (Surprise pose), a very regrind Lilly (for Hollywood), Powder (Glory Pose), and ponies that need to be orange.

Need to get more acrylic paint for the ponies that need to be finished.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on November 28, 2020, 07:21:25 PM
I picked up some modeling foam this weekend.  Anyone used it on their customs?  I've watched a couple of YouTube videos from some people that have used it so I have an idea of what to expect but I wondered if anyone on here has any tips for using it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on November 30, 2020, 09:46:04 PM
Snowdrift and JP are painted and sealed, onto the hair this weekend!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on December 01, 2020, 12:41:57 PM
Had to paint my Baby Lucky (Baby Quarterback) because of age spots.

Primed Non Twinkleeyed Mimic, Baby Mimic, Frosting, Baby Frosting, Powder (Alternative Glory Pose).

Sealed Locker (Whizzer Pose) with liquidtex.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on December 10, 2020, 12:19:28 PM
That winter themed custom I posted about on Nov 24th is finally getting started :lol: See this is why I don't sign up to swaps anymore, I just can't get motivated. It's going to have a sculpted white reindeer as a symbol and I'm going to try to paint the Aurora Borealis above it and on the NDS. I still need to look in my giant hair stash and see what I have. I know I have some super old DH like Blizzard and Starlight, which would look nice. Not sure what kinds of greens/blues I have... if I'll even use that. We'll see!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on December 11, 2020, 05:31:35 PM
Ponies that need to be orange would be a great book title. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: StillandSilent on December 12, 2020, 10:12:35 AM
I'm working on a custom playset.  Can I just say how freaking cute the molds for G3 playsets are and what a waste that they colored it all the same?  The celebration castle I'm working on has the sweetest details that no one ever got to notice.  There is spiderweb with a tiny spider on it!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on December 13, 2020, 09:46:39 AM
I'm working on a custom playset.  Can I just say how freaking cute the molds for G3 playsets are and what a waste that they colored it all the same?  The celebration castle I'm working on has the sweetest details that no one ever got to notice.  There is spiderweb with a tiny spider on it!

Sounds great! We don't see custom playsets too often, I'd love to see pics when you're done ^.^

After completing my Holiday swap pony I only have one WIP project left, the druid pony for my friend I mentioned earlier. I haven't made any progress on that one... *sigh* That includes prepping the bait. It's a recycled custom and thus far I've only removed the twinkle eyes and cleaned the head but the body is still partially covered in old paint. I just haven't found the motivation to continue...

There's also the 10-year project which I completed some months ago but haven't been able to share yet, the pony was too tall for my small homemade lightbox. I should take them outside for a proper photoshoot but the days fly by and the hours of daylight are so few. :( Getting out of the house, especially before it's dark, is proving pretty difficult in general...

ETA// One more thing, I got an email from Webs.com that they're shutting down the service. That's where my customs page is (see link in my signature). Any ideas for alternatives? I'm not sure if I even have any visitors to my website, and I post all my customs to Deviantart anyway. Not sure if I need a website at all? Especially now that I don't take commissions or anything. Still thinking about joining Instagram...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on December 13, 2020, 05:41:48 PM
Griffin, give Weebly a look!
I'm trying to do some merge of the lock-and-loop and tool rehair methods but I misplaced my rehair needles. I need to try this and see how it works!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on December 19, 2020, 12:47:13 PM
Still need to rehair my ponies, will do that today and tomorrow! Pics will be posted when they are done! :3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on December 24, 2020, 01:18:32 PM
I finished Snowdrift yesterday--he is a Christmas gift for my family so I can't show pics yet! But his backstory and a teaser photo are up on my pony site! www.enchantingcustoms.weebly.com
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on December 24, 2020, 03:29:35 PM
Can't wait to see!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on December 26, 2020, 02:00:08 PM
I loved seeing past customs again!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on January 28, 2021, 10:13:18 AM
I started doing a fbr on a G1 and I realized how many tiny flaws there were in the plastic surface.  Little pock-marks, scratches, bumps...I didn't notice them until I started painting.  Yikes!  I was able to fix some but not all.  Luckily it's one I'm just doing for myself  :huh:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on January 31, 2021, 09:19:16 PM
I'm nearly done rehairing the Jurassic Park pony...and I've started on another custom--this one will be a space themed pony with a 90s color scheme (bright metallic purple body, neon green/yellow mane/tail, neon green planet symbols). The metallic paint is having a hard time taking...I will wait til next weekend to mess around with it some more, hopefully it was just because the layers are thin/new.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on February 01, 2021, 05:11:00 AM
I'm nearly done rehairing the Jurassic Park pony...and I've started on another custom--this one will be a space themed pony with a 90s color scheme (bright metallic purple body, neon green/yellow mane/tail, neon green planet symbols). The metallic paint is having a hard time taking...I will wait til next weekend to mess around with it some more, hopefully it was just because the layers are thin/new.
Thin is good, you can always add another layer.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on February 02, 2021, 06:46:26 PM
Has anyone used thin metal foil for symbols?  Like that gold and copper leafy stuff?  I cannot recall the name of the product right at the moment. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on February 05, 2021, 10:25:25 AM
Going to get wave two Ken BMR1959 doll to make into Phoebus from Hunchback of Norte Dame to go with my Disney Store Esmeralda head on a Barbie Made to Move body.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on February 05, 2021, 12:44:52 PM
I rehaired a Sugarberry but can't find my glue...so she sits unstyled.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on February 05, 2021, 06:00:25 PM
Has anyone used thin metal foil for symbols?  Like that gold and copper leafy stuff?  I cannot recall the name of the product right at the moment. 

It's just called Leaf :) I have used it but not on ponies. I don't see why you couldn't. It's very VERY flimsy though and tough to work with small pieces, especially if you want something specific.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on February 05, 2021, 08:55:50 PM
Sounds like a metallic paint would be easier.  And less chance of a certain cat munching on a bottle of paint.  The new default answer to "have you seen" whatever is "ask Midna and Zelda".  Silly girls...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on February 05, 2021, 11:56:02 PM
Has anyone used thin metal foil for symbols?  Like that gold and copper leafy stuff?  I cannot recall the name of the product right at the moment. 

It's just called Leaf :) I have used it but not on ponies. I don't see why you couldn't. It's very VERY flimsy though and tough to work with small pieces, especially if you want something specific.

Never thought about it but gold leaf would take my manuscript ponies to a whole new level! Oooh I'm tempted now. But I've never used the stuff before and yes, I understand it's tricky to work with!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Shaiyeh on February 06, 2021, 03:30:43 AM
I've worked with gold leaf, but also not on ponies, only on wood ^^' I can't see why it wouldn't work, but you'd need to figure out what to make it stick to, and then a sealant that won't mess with the finish. (sealant could probably work as an uncercoat tos tick it to as well.
You'll want to work in a calm environment, not breathe too much on it because it WILL fly away. and have a greasy side of your nose and a dry paintbrush. swipe brush over nose, pick up gold, place on sticky thing. at least that's how I've been taught to do it for decorating musical instruments ^^'
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on February 18, 2021, 11:27:13 PM
I've worked with gold leaf, but also not on ponies, only on wood ^^' I can't see why it wouldn't work, but you'd need to figure out what to make it stick to, and then a sealant that won't mess with the finish. (sealant could probably work as an uncercoat tos tick it to as well.
You'll want to work in a calm environment, not breathe too much on it because it WILL fly away. and have a greasy side of your nose and a dry paintbrush. swipe brush over nose, pick up gold, place on sticky thing. at least that's how I've been taught to do it for decorating musical instruments ^^'

... that is so clever!! I never would have thought of that! Thanks for sharing that tip!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on March 04, 2021, 01:32:05 PM
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Sorry G4 Coconut Cream, you gotta wait.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on March 29, 2021, 05:58:49 PM
I think it's been almost 3 years since I finished a custom. I've started a few but something always happens to make me stop.

I'm ready for a new one now. Bait is prepped and my desk is clean to work. She's going to be a pale yellow and white pony with climbing roses. It'll be another mashup of ponies and miniatures :)

I want to start doing customs regularly, get back in the groove, and maybe open for commissions to make some income. Commissions always made me nervous and I only ever did two. But that's not for a while. I'd like to do some swaps again.

Ah, but first I need to actually finish a custom :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on March 29, 2021, 08:24:04 PM
BlackCurtains, your customs look gorgeous, I'm sure you'll get back in the swing of things once you start!

I'm working on a G3 Night Glider and wow, those tiny stars are HARD to paint.  Why do I always pick something like this when I KNOW I'll have trouble given my lack of depth perception  :lol:  Well, I started another pony for a private swap so that's given me a break from stars for awhile!

I also placed an order with Dollyhair for the first time in...years...so we'll see how that goes.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on April 17, 2021, 12:49:28 PM
I started working on something! A little personal challenge, the rainbow game inspired me to try red for the first time. Let's see how it works out :D

And while I was at it, I finally got round to cleaning up the bait for my friend's custom. It's been sitting and waiting for months and months. :blush: 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 18, 2021, 12:39:48 PM
Yay! There really aren't a lot of red ponies, even in customs. I have some baits I dyed like 10 years ago and a couple are red.

My WIP boy with the big wings? I can't find him. I thought I already had and he was in a specific box, but I went to grab him today and... he's not in the box at all. I looked in the other boxes of customs and my prepped bait drawer and have no clue where he could be. I could have sworn he was in that box :huh:

Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Colorscapesart on April 25, 2021, 06:56:48 AM
The Arena is so inspiring! 
I started to work on a pony a while back and I noticed I was having vision issues with the detail work.  I picked up a pair of reading glasses from Walmart and that seems to have made all the difference.

I'm excited to say I am finishing up a Strawberry Cow for my daughter after seeing Heely's Strawberry Cow.  Just fun, no stress.  I also picked up some very groovy rainbow yarn fiber and I want to make a few rainbow powder puff girls.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on April 25, 2021, 11:42:02 AM
The Arena is so inspiring! 
I started to work on a pony a while back and I noticed I was having vision issues with the detail work.  I picked up a pair of reading glasses from Walmart and that seems to have made all the difference.

I'm excited to say I am finishing up a Strawberry Cow for my daughter after seeing Heely's Strawberry Cow.  Just fun, no stress.  I also picked up some very groovy rainbow yarn fiber and I want to make a few rainbow powder puff girls.

Glad the glasses are working out   I'll be keeping an eye out for rainbow powder puff ponies of you makes some!

I just finished a G3 Nightglider and now I'm putting the final touch on a pony for a private swap and getting all excited about what to make next...I had a plan to make more G1-G4 ponies but now I want to make... "Drinky" as a companion for Munchy...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on April 26, 2021, 07:45:24 PM
I've really been making progress now that classes are over! I got my airbrush out and used it for the first time in ages. I'm on a big gradient kick now. I have two WIPs currently and they're going pretty well so far.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 26, 2021, 09:38:31 PM
I'm happy to say my artistic mojo is back! I've got three new ponies prepped and ready. I'm excited to use the new paints I bought but I have a lot of sculpting to do first.

Still can't locate big wing guy! Maybe he flew away...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on May 17, 2021, 09:27:39 PM
My purple G1 space themed custom is coming along nicely...the rehairing is to be done next!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 18, 2021, 10:10:52 AM
Maaaan, my last post here sounds so promising. I got sidetracked with RL stuff. The baits are still prepped and sitting on my desk. Oh, and I found big wing guy. I think I'll probably finish him first before starting the others. When? I dunno. Soon, I hope.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on May 18, 2021, 12:26:17 PM
Maaaan, my last post here sounds so promising. I got sidetracked with RL stuff. The baits are still prepped and sitting on my desk. Oh, and I found big wing guy. I think I'll probably finish him first before starting the others. When? I dunno. Soon, I hope.

You and me both :S I finished and posted the red pony but after that I haven't been able to even think about customs. My friend's pony is still waiting...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on May 22, 2021, 04:08:38 PM
I finally finished a set of three rehairs I've been working toward for months!  Thanks to LadyAmalthea for sending me the last bait.  Now I just need to photograph them.  After that I have one custom to rehair and then I'll kind of be caught up... *eyes the three WIPs living semi-permenantly in my bait drawer*
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on May 23, 2021, 10:44:22 PM
I was nearly done rehairing my space pony Cosmic Candy when my rerooting needle broke! Gah! Waiting on several replacements to come in the mail before I can finish her...*sigh*
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on June 07, 2021, 03:25:59 AM
A pet sim I play, PonyIsland is having a custom contest for the next festival! I didn't enter the last one since my depression was so bad, but I'm going to enter this time. The theme is celestial. I found my big wing custom and the thing is... I was going to do a celestial theme with him anyway :lol: So I'm going to remake his wings, since all work must be new, and just do the idea I had for him. It's perfect, really.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on June 12, 2021, 07:53:38 AM
Got to get more primer just ran out priming a newborn twin pony and only the body of alternative Powder (first version I done will be Sailor Saturn Pony). Got more ponies to paint (some need another coat) and do symbols on some ponies. Thinking of using my black watercolour pencil to do the outline of Sunburst’s symbol.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on June 13, 2021, 09:20:27 AM
Going to start making a Sonic themed custom today!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on June 17, 2021, 01:27:14 AM
My primer is on the way Skeleton Grey and White made by Vallejo.

Got to get more ponies from eBay.uk because come first of July I’m coming out of it.

Got my custom list with me and so far I’ve ticked off some of my customs. Got a lot more to do.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on June 19, 2021, 10:09:16 AM
I lost my small brushes again? Am I going to buy my third pack of them because I can't stay organized? Perhaps. Stay tuned.
Finally resuming work on my Pipp Petals brushable. :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on June 22, 2021, 04:58:36 PM
The Sonic pony is coming along nicely! :) The legs are a bit tricky, but it's fun remaking an old custom of mine. I've also been selling quite a few of my customs on Etsy, and I'm happy for that too!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on June 25, 2021, 01:04:27 PM
I'm glad your customs are selling on Etsy, CS! I've been waffling on making gradiented G4 to sell as blanks for customs as a way to clear out my baits-starting to get too many. Perhaps I'll spring for it at some point...
Pipp just got her flocking and is almost done! I'll have to edit the video as well, no clue how long that will take. At least now that class is over I have Mondays free. I'm excited to start making videos though, it's something that's always seemed rather easy to do-just a bit tedious.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on September 06, 2021, 08:59:33 AM
*Dusts off thread*

I'm trying to think of what to do with the fashion style Izzy I baited but I can't come up with any ideas I want to stick with!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on September 06, 2021, 12:44:57 PM
Had a wee look through my baits & managed to behead all but one of the G3 McD's Ponies needing it (the stubborn one is a Starsong). Also took out their hair. Two are white & two are Wysterias, so could have a McD Sunny Daze & McD Kimono coming at some point. First though, shift a whole bunch of still-to-rehair Ponies out the way...

At least I'm back into it
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on September 06, 2021, 02:02:53 PM
*Dusts off thread*

I'm trying to think of what to do with the fashion style Izzy I baited but I can't come up with any ideas I want to stick with!

You could always go with a generation swap custom!  I like to do those if I'm not feeling particularly inspired to come up with a new design.  Maybe a G2 character?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: vampyrefay on September 09, 2021, 02:58:24 AM
Why is it so hard to find rhinstones that fit a g4? I really want to get this skeleton custom done before october -_-
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on September 26, 2021, 03:32:30 AM
After many years of being away- I've got the iiiiitch to start making customs again! I recently bought a brand new batch of apoxie sculpt, and drew up a concept sketch for the project I wanna start. Just gotta clean off my desk sometime in the next century...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on September 26, 2021, 09:34:42 AM
Welcome back! :D A lot of oldies have been returning.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on September 26, 2021, 11:30:13 AM
I've really missed it around here!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on September 26, 2021, 01:09:27 PM
Welcome back!! :tackleglomp:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on September 26, 2021, 06:07:31 PM
Thanks Griffin!  :frolic:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on September 29, 2021, 09:17:30 PM
Oh welcome back!  I'm pretty sure I remember you from when I first joined here...is it weird to ask you to post some of your customs to see if I remember any of them or just your style? 


I haven't been able to do anything creative for weeks because of my two jobs plus working on job applications/interviews.  I really want to try customizing some of the new small brushables but when will I have the time  :hot: :drunk:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 10, 2021, 12:11:59 PM
Glad you're back, TickledPink/ImmortalPanda!

I abandoned the Sonic pony for now, and I'm making a Shire/LOTR pony instead! She will have a 3D sculpted and flocked symbol on both sides--a Hobbit hole--and pretty yellow butterfly wings. Base pony-Wind Drifter (she will keep her mane/tail and body color, just her symbol and wings will change). She will also have a raised set of leaves on her forehead, like the leaf brooch
(I couldn't find one that small, she is a tiny pony, fitting for a Hobbit pony). She also has a little Hobbit hole from an aquarium as her accessory.

Was considering giving her some dark green highlights in her mane/tail too, or maybe silver tinsel, if the supplier doesn't run out again :p
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on October 10, 2021, 12:27:42 PM
Sounds great, ChocolateStarfire! Can't wait to see your Hobbit pony  ^.^

I haven't touched my WIP in ages.  :huh:  I've only made one custom this year. Trying to get back on track and offered a commission slot as one of the Halloween colouring contest prizes, maybe trying someone else's idea for a change will get me going! ;)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 10, 2021, 03:52:16 PM
Sounds great, ChocolateStarfire! Can't wait to see your Hobbit pony  ^.^

I haven't touched my WIP in ages.  :huh:  I've only made one custom this year. Trying to get back on track and offered a commission slot as one of the Halloween colouring contest prizes, maybe trying someone else's idea for a change will get me going! ;)

Thank you Griffin! Yeah I find that others' ideas inspire me to create vs my own stuff sometimes, I completely understand :3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 12, 2021, 08:54:36 AM
I'm finally doing something :cheer: I need to make a base for this custom and then I'll be sculpting many, many seashells. I also need to find my craft sand... I think I know where it is.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on October 13, 2021, 05:43:22 PM
I dulled the blade of my craft knife right in the middle of a project, and I have no idea where my extra blades are! so annoying!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 13, 2021, 07:23:42 PM
That's a bummer!!!

Anyway, keeping it simple to start:
visitors can't see pics , please register or login
 (https://www.hqg1c.com/gallery/Personal-album-of-Ponybookworm/canardine1-pic_1086.htm)
Duck Pony, or Canardine, is a baby unicorn to go with Dutch Rabbit Pony. I dyed a baity yellowed Baby Moondancer green, rooted her with a pale purple, & gave her a duck symbol in colours which turn out to perfectly match Sea Star's float!!!
Getting to work painting a third pumpkin treat bucket, while I dyed the Apoxie Sculpt hoof feathers orange to match the body of the Pony I put them on. Tomorrow I'm dyeing some GITD hair, & giving it a thorough rinse & a good while before it goes in the Pony (because last time I dyed hair green the dye transferred to the Pony & it wasn't nice...)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on October 13, 2021, 08:00:46 PM
Well, I found my blades, and with the first cut, I stabbed my self in the thumb XD
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 13, 2021, 08:04:01 PM
Well, I found my blades, and with the first cut, I stabbed my self in the thumb XD
And that's how we know you're a Customiser!!! Stinky chemicals, scarred hands, & so much stains on stuff, despite trying to protect your surfaces. Oh, the joys!!! Hope you cleaned & wrapped the cut up!!! A good first aid kit is as essential as acetone
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on October 13, 2021, 08:07:08 PM
Haha yep! It's been awhile since I last made a blood sacrifice to the pony gods!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 13, 2021, 08:27:16 PM
Haha yep! It's been awhile since I last made a blood sacrifice to the pony gods!!!
:lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao: :lmao:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 14, 2021, 05:49:40 AM
I find when I'm trying to be careful because of a new blade is exactly when I cut myself the most :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on October 14, 2021, 09:03:44 AM
I’ve got a headless Surprise because I’ve used the head for my custom alternative pose Princess Tiffany. Seeing as it’s going to be Halloween I’m planning on turning the body into the headless horseman.

I’ve re haired another Salty with his TV counterpart hair (even though the pink is darker than his TV counterpart) because my old one well his head keeps falling off and I can’t find him.

Got bait Northstar, Speckles, and Rattles from Etsy coming so Northstar & Speckles are going to be a custom Moondream, and Baby Moondream. As for Rattles I’m going to re hair her.

Yesterday I cut my middle finger with scissors while I was cutting the things from the tail. And my index finger is sore because of re rooting pony heads.

I have my brother remove the pony heads for me because I cut myself with the exacto knife.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on October 14, 2021, 07:12:10 PM
The pony gods required me tribute. I sliced my thumb open XD
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 15, 2021, 04:05:18 AM
Why is it so hard to get certain paints the correct consistency to actually APPLY??? I swear, that's the one thing I HATE about my current glow in the dark paint. When I mix it with the others it goes all goopy. I just want it paintable...

Was a pain to get sorted this time, & needed too, I mean it was for a spider web!!! Trying to do it for yesterday's pumpkin bucket was 90% fail, so had a go with other methods to smooth the web paint out. Too late for the edge but the inner lines are better (still me though so still not perfect lol)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 15, 2021, 07:13:29 AM
GITD paint is heavier than most other acrylics, I find. It's also more prone to separate when mixed with water. I use latex glow paint. I get good results with it, plus the glow is more intense and comes in a variety of colors. The only thing, being latex it leaves a rubbery feel after it dries and if you pick at it, it can peel off. But for customs that just sit on a shelf, that's not a problem.

Can't wait to see your customs, PBW!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 15, 2021, 07:59:02 AM
It's the last of the Halloween Ponies: the G3 Boy. And if the other thread holds off long enough, he can get his debut with all the orange Ponies...

My isues wi the gitd paint are when mixing it with other colours. The peel-off thing isn't a huge worry after a good spray of my spray sealant (so far, so work)

I'm waiting for something to arrive to do the hair, then give it a good clean off so it doesn't affect the body
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on October 15, 2021, 09:05:05 AM
Why are you mixing it with other colours? Would it work if you just applied the GITD paint on top of the colour? These are genuine questions, I've never worked with GITD paint so I honestly don't know! But isn't it kind of colourless and see-through in daylight? Or does it look ugly? :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: AnnaPommes on October 15, 2021, 09:48:17 AM
oh, interesting topics here!!
For glow in the dark paint: i know that some people just buy "glow in the dark" pigments and mix them with glue. would that work out? i did that once a few yars back and it worked!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 16, 2021, 04:38:43 AM
My current GITD paint is one colour: a whitish shade. By mixing it I can make it other colours in the light.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TwistedRiver on October 16, 2021, 05:20:17 AM
I've had GiTD paint that was see through and only showed up in the dark or under black light. And I've had GiTD paint that was pigmented different colors.
What I've learned though is that pigmented paints usually end up having a much weaker glow.

I would love to get customizing again but at the moment I'm not sure I have the time/space needed for yet another crafty project. I haven't even gotten any of the doll painting I've been planning since midsummer or before.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on October 17, 2021, 08:21:36 AM
Just painted my headless Pegasus pony black by miss Bloody Red (what I used to paint Big Mac), Magic Blue (had no idea why I brought that paint) and Sun Yellow) to make black seeing as I can’t get my hands on Vallejo Black till I get a gift card.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on October 21, 2021, 06:20:38 PM
You know it's been a good sculpting session when you can't get the globs of apoxie sculpt off your finger tips! :D  I ended up having to use sandpaper, lol.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TwistedRiver on October 21, 2021, 06:53:08 PM
I've yet to try using apoxie all my sculpting has either been done with air dry clay or sculpy.
How much working time does apoxie give you?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on October 21, 2021, 07:17:46 PM
It really depends, I think my batch of apoxie sculpt was sitting on the shelf for a bit, so I get roughly 2 hrs of easy working time. Super fresh stuff gave about 3 hrs, but it seems to also depend on the weather.

I dont reccomend using air dry clay on customs. It doesn't stick very well, and there is too much shrinkage as it dries. It's also really fragile.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: AnnaPommes on October 21, 2021, 11:11:28 PM
apoxie is nice and gets real sturdy once hardened. Like TickledPink said, it sticks well to customs and has close to no shrinkage - AND you can apply it on models that you can not put in the oven. ^^
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 23, 2021, 08:40:16 AM
I tried to love apoxie sculpt and it has its uses, but personally I prefer polymer clay. Everyone is different though :)

In other news, I'm making progress on the memorial custom and I've decided to make a Halloween pony too. I hope I can finish it on time, but it might be late.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 23, 2021, 08:23:48 PM
Waiting for new glue as the stuff I currently have is, to put it mildly, useless unless you're gluing paper, & I ran out of the good stuff working on a craft project
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on October 24, 2021, 02:29:17 AM
I tried to love apoxie sculpt and it has its uses, but personally I prefer polymer clay. Everyone is different though :)

I didn't really like apoxie sculpt for awhile, there is definitely a learning curve to it. There are some things I definitely prefer using sculpey for though!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 26, 2021, 08:15:16 PM
The thing with Apoxie sculpt is it comes in two parts. You have to get the two parts as near the same size as possible, & mix as thoroughly as possible. After that you can work with it

One good thing I've noticed is, apart from the purple, off-white Apoxie sculpt dyes in Rit Dyemore, along with the Pony!!! I tried a purple dye, but the Apoxie sculpt turned an inky blue. Every other colour so far took to the Apoxie sculpt the way it was meant to. My latest Custom, as a G3 Boy, has hoof tufts made of Apoxie sculpt, & I dyed those orange. They turned out an almost perfect match for the Pony
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 27, 2021, 06:16:53 PM
I tried to love apoxie sculpt and it has its uses, but personally I prefer polymer clay. Everyone is different though :)

In other news, I'm making progress on the memorial custom and I've decided to make a Halloween pony too. I hope I can finish it on time, but it might be late.

I'm real excited to see whatever you come up with for both.  I love seeing your customs, and it has been awhile since you did one, yeah?  And doing a memorial custom is so meaningful.  :lovey: I feel anticipation building.  :)

I finally came back from my camping trip.  I'm still so busy with my second job, but I reeeaaallly want to start a G5 custom...I have so many ideas but so little time.  Getting into the inside of the G5 3" brushable head looks like it will be very hard to do, I fear accidentally stabbing myself.  :shocked: Maybe if I put it in boiling water first?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 27, 2021, 10:24:24 PM
Busy sewing more costumes. Made one for the latest Custom, a Teeny-sized one, & now working on some for Baby Boys, including a shark costume!!!

ETA: shark costume done
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 28, 2021, 07:32:20 AM
I'm real excited to see whatever you come up with for both.  I love seeing your customs, and it has been awhile since you did one, yeah?  And doing a memorial custom is so meaningful.  :lovey: I feel anticipation building.  :)

Aww, thank you! That means a lot. :heart:

Yeah, it's been a while since I actually finished one. I have a few WIP, one going on three years now - and he's almost done! The hard part is over but I'm just slacking on painting him.

The memorial custom is halted right now as I attempt to sculpt water. And the Halloween custom is going to be late :P

Re G5 - Boiling water would help, sure. I haven't sat down to examine mine very closely yet.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kestral_kitsune on October 28, 2021, 10:20:20 AM
i found these for something completely non-pony related but wondered if anyone had ever used them for customizing they're called U-Mark a10 xylene free paint markers  they're meant to be used on plastic and vinyl models  and thought it'd be a neat supply for pony customizers
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 29, 2021, 03:42:41 PM
I'm real excited to see whatever you come up with for both.  I love seeing your customs, and it has been awhile since you did one, yeah?  And doing a memorial custom is so meaningful.  :lovey: I feel anticipation building.  :)

Aww, thank you! That means a lot. :heart:

Yeah, it's been a while since I actually finished one. I have a few WIP, one going on three years now - and he's almost done! The hard part is over but I'm just slacking on painting him.

The memorial custom is halted right now as I attempt to sculpt water. And the Halloween custom is going to be late :P

Re G5 - Boiling water would help, sure. I haven't sat down to examine mine very closely yet.

The boiling water did help!  I was a little sloppy but now that I understand the angle needed I feel more confident.

i found these for something completely non-pony related but wondered if anyone had ever used them for customizing they're called U-Mark a10 xylene free paint markers  they're meant to be used on plastic and vinyl models  and thought it'd be a neat supply for pony customizers

I haven't heard of those but they sound interesting.  I wonder how smooth the color goes on.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TwistedRiver on October 30, 2021, 02:12:43 AM
i found these for something completely non-pony related but wondered if anyone had ever used them for customizing they're called U-Mark a10 xylene free paint markers  they're meant to be used on plastic and vinyl models  and thought it'd be a neat supply for pony customizers
I'm a little wary of markers but those do sound interesting enough that I'm going to have to look them up and see what there made of as well as actual reviews for them.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kestral_kitsune on November 02, 2021, 04:29:58 PM
I'm real excited to see whatever you come up with for both.  I love seeing your customs, and it has been awhile since you did one, yeah?  And doing a memorial custom is so meaningful.  :lovey: I feel anticipation building.  :)

Aww, thank you! That means a lot. :heart:

Yeah, it's been a while since I actually finished one. I have a few WIP, one going on three years now - and he's almost done! The hard part is over but I'm just slacking on painting him.

The memorial custom is halted right now as I attempt to sculpt water. And the Halloween custom is going to be late :P

Re G5 - Boiling water would help, sure. I haven't sat down to examine mine very closely yet.

The boiling water did help!  I was a little sloppy but now that I understand the angle needed I feel more confident.

i found these for something completely non-pony related but wondered if anyone had ever used them for customizing they're called U-Mark a10 xylene free paint markers  they're meant to be used on plastic and vinyl models  and thought it'd be a neat supply for pony customizers

I haven't heard of those but they sound interesting.  I wonder how smooth the color goes on.

i used a primer base on this mask https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/854092099481108530/904022179212062770/20211030_090104.jpg and the markers went on rather smooth for me.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on November 02, 2021, 06:06:36 PM
I'm real excited to see whatever you come up with for both.  I love seeing your customs, and it has been awhile since you did one, yeah?  And doing a memorial custom is so meaningful.  :lovey: I feel anticipation building.  :)

Aww, thank you! That means a lot. :heart:

Yeah, it's been a while since I actually finished one. I have a few WIP, one going on three years now - and he's almost done! The hard part is over but I'm just slacking on painting him.

The memorial custom is halted right now as I attempt to sculpt water. And the Halloween custom is going to be late :P

Re G5 - Boiling water would help, sure. I haven't sat down to examine mine very closely yet.

The boiling water did help!  I was a little sloppy but now that I understand the angle needed I feel more confident.

i found these for something completely non-pony related but wondered if anyone had ever used them for customizing they're called U-Mark a10 xylene free paint markers  they're meant to be used on plastic and vinyl models  and thought it'd be a neat supply for pony customizers

I haven't heard of those but they sound interesting.  I wonder how smooth the color goes on.

i used a primer base on this mask https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/854092099481108530/904022179212062770/20211030_090104.jpg and the markers went on rather smooth for me.

Oh that does look pretty smooth!  (p.s. love the ears!)  Where did you buy the markers?  A store, or online somewhere?

Despite "not having any time" I somehow managed to start a new custom.  It is one I really wanted to do...I'm at the eye-painting stage which is so fiddly.  I must be patient, but I also can't wait to finish and share her here!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on November 03, 2021, 02:08:54 AM
Sorting through my fabric over the last couple of days & found a mustard colour felt which will make an awesome tiger costume paired with the black...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 03, 2021, 06:39:58 AM
I am working on customs again :) Actually doing stuff, not just talking about it :P

I had to halt my memorial custom because I need sand. I used to have craft sand but I'm not sure if I do anymore. I can buy some for Amazon for like 6 bucks, so it's not too bad. I could also just go to the beach... but then I'd have to wash and bake it and buying it is easier :P

Have a bunch of customs lined up, crossing fingers I keep working and get them done. I have one idea I'm really excited about. I've never seen a custom like it before, so maybe I can grab the niche for it and "be known" for something :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kestral_kitsune on November 03, 2021, 05:37:02 PM
I'm real excited to see whatever you come up with for both.  I love seeing your customs, and it has been awhile since you did one, yeah?  And doing a memorial custom is so meaningful.  :lovey: I feel anticipation building.  :)

Aww, thank you! That means a lot. :heart:

Yeah, it's been a while since I actually finished one. I have a few WIP, one going on three years now - and he's almost done! The hard part is over but I'm just slacking on painting him.

The memorial custom is halted right now as I attempt to sculpt water. And the Halloween custom is going to be late :P

Re G5 - Boiling water would help, sure. I haven't sat down to examine mine very closely yet.

The boiling water did help!  I was a little sloppy but now that I understand the angle needed I feel more confident.

i found these for something completely non-pony related but wondered if anyone had ever used them for customizing they're called U-Mark a10 xylene free paint markers  they're meant to be used on plastic and vinyl models  and thought it'd be a neat supply for pony customizers

I haven't heard of those but they sound interesting.  I wonder how smooth the color goes on.

i used a primer base on this mask https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/854092099481108530/904022179212062770/20211030_090104.jpg and the markers went on rather smooth for me.

Oh that does look pretty smooth!  (p.s. love the ears!)  Where did you buy the markers?  A store, or online somewhere?

Despite "not having any time" I somehow managed to start a new custom.  It is one I really wanted to do...I'm at the eye-painting stage which is so fiddly.  I must be patient, but I also can't wait to finish and share her here!
i got them at hobby lobby but you can also find them at  umarkers.com
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 04, 2021, 10:41:39 AM
I needed a sort of unique hair blend and checked my stash. I had some hair picked out to blend but then I looked in my G3 tails bag and lo - I found a perfect blended tail. This custom has a very short hairdo so it worked out great. I didn't have to open the other hair at all :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: puuush on November 08, 2021, 03:59:47 AM
Heeelloooo. I'm back on doing some customs and will also put up a few for sale soon. :cheer:

I had some setbacks with paints being overly sticky and now I had that happening again to a very soft G1 Collector's Pose one. I think I will strip the paint off entirely and try RIT dye instead. Then I just need an idea for a symbol that won't get sticky...

Also I'm nearly finished (after years of neglect) with my :muffin: Pony Hooves Peacock pony... Just some blush needed then she is ready to go. YAY.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 08, 2021, 04:43:53 AM
Yay puushie :tackleglomp: Can't wait to see what you've been working on :D

Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 10, 2021, 06:25:23 AM
Has anyone put apoxie sculpt in the oven to cure it faster? I'm going to try it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on November 10, 2021, 10:13:17 AM
Has anyone put apoxie sculpt in the oven to cure it faster? I'm going to try it.

I wouldn't do that, especially if it's an oven you use for food (not sure if it will release toxic fumes?!)... and I'm not sure if it will help the clay cure any faster.

Not sure if this comes too late, but I believe you don't need to stick to an exact 50/50 ratio when mixing Apoxie. Adding a bit more of the stiffer component will make the clay cure faster. Vice versa and it will be softer - I do this especially when my clay has already seen it's best days, haha. Of course you can't go too far or the clay might not cure properly, or it may end up brittle when cured.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 10, 2021, 10:59:23 AM
Welp, too late XD

After about 20 minutes on 275 (same I bake polymer at) it's fully cured. It got white patches on it, but I'm going to paint it anyway.

So, maybe only in emergencies? (I'm on a tight deadline for a contest)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on November 10, 2021, 11:49:08 AM
Welp, too late XD

After about 20 minutes on 275 (same I bake polymer at) it's fully cured. It got white patches on it, but I'm going to paint it anyway.

So, maybe only in emergencies? (I'm on a tight deadline for a contest)

Haha well we need those who are bold enough to experiment! Good for you :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on November 10, 2021, 01:07:09 PM
I have a lofty idea to make a custom once a month or so! Prepped the bait for this month's, ordered the hair, just gotta work on the painting and start prepping the bait for December once I find it. :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on November 10, 2021, 08:14:48 PM
Cut up some felt today to make more costumes, & not just for Baby Boys. Newborns & Teeny Tinies also get in on the fun. I have three prepped Ponies en route to becoming Customs, one of each size, who tested out the fit of the basic cape pieces.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 11, 2021, 04:49:47 AM
Teeny Tinies in costumes?! *drops dead from cuteness*

@tailrust - Yay! A pony a month is a big goal. Can't wait to see what you make!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on November 11, 2021, 01:05:13 PM
Thanks, BC! I feel like it's not a super unrealistic goal considering they'll be relatively simple.

Losing my airbrush is a great excuse to pick up a dual action. I had a single before. Also was really good in getting me to throw out a lot of boxes still in my room, but where could it have possibly gone?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on November 11, 2021, 02:01:07 PM
Teeny Tinies in costumes?! *drops dead from cuteness*

@tailrust - Yay! A pony a month is a big goal. Can't wait to see what you make!
After the amount of love the shark costume got I had to make more. Baby Girls get plenty of clothes & costumes (lion, clown, dragon, bunny, elephant), but other young G1s don't get that opportunity without a little crafting...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: rybett on November 12, 2021, 08:33:20 PM
I understand washing sand, but why bake it?  The weather is cold, perfect time to paint or finish hair on the several ponies who are waiting.  Soooo, instead I broke my wrist.   But I guess better now than in the middle of a heatwave. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 13, 2021, 04:43:36 AM
Oh no! Sorry about your wrist :(

You bake it to sanitize it and kill any bacteria, eggs or anything else that might be in it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on November 13, 2021, 05:24:51 AM
Took photos of the basic cape pieces, battery low or I'd take that ONE MORE PHOTO I need to take, due to the fact one of the cape sizes is tapered (the teeny one), & the narrower back edge needs measured. Also managed to photograph Batty Boo's bat wings & wingstrap, so that's a plus...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 13, 2021, 07:32:25 AM
I'm finally done with my sculpture. Now I can continue working on customs :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on November 13, 2021, 07:51:55 AM
I'm finally done with my sculpture. Now I can continue working on customs :)
:art: :accomplished: :frolic: :enthralled: :happy:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TickledPink on November 23, 2021, 02:24:38 AM
I have two heavily sculpted customs in the works that I need to get back to. One is a baby demon gargyole, and the other is a unicorn that I had originally intended to make into a gargoyle, but I sculpted it too look so much like an OC of mine I might just change directions...decisions decisions.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on December 01, 2021, 03:41:22 PM
My Hobbit/Shire winger pony is almost done! Just waiting on the wings (ha!) and then will take/post pics! Sneak peek of her 3D cutie mark  (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FFKBppWVcAUz3iJ?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on December 02, 2021, 08:48:21 AM
My Hobbit/Shire winger pony is almost done! Just waiting on the wings (ha!) and then will take/post pics! Sneak peek of her 3D cutie mark  (https://pbs.twimg.com/media/FFKBppWVcAUz3iJ?format=jpg&name=4096x4096)

Ooh that looks wonderful!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on December 04, 2021, 03:55:48 PM
Thank you Griffin! <3 She's going to be posted in the main Customs section soon, and she's up for sale on my Etsy shop!  ^.^
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on December 06, 2021, 04:32:19 PM
Having finished Sugar Moonlight as a regular brushable a couple weeks ago, I now want to make her in the larger size (the size of rainbow-mane Sunny).  Is this how a custom pony army starts?   :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on December 06, 2021, 06:41:33 PM
FINISHED all the costumes!!! Only thing I need now is one accessory for one of the Ponies wearing one (on its way). Once that's here prepare for piccie spam!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on December 06, 2021, 08:36:25 PM
Having finished Sugar Moonlight as a regular brushable a couple weeks ago, I now want to make her in the larger size (the size of rainbow-mane Sunny).  Is this how a custom pony army starts?   :lol:


Yes.  You've officially fallen down the rabbit hole.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on December 22, 2021, 11:32:31 AM
Nudging this up.

What is everybody working on?

I've been taking a break but the itch is coming on again.

There are three things I'm partway through. My dark hoarfrost pony who needs to be airbrushed and haired. A memorial pony for my sister, I need to paint the base still and sculpt some things. Pony needs hair and a symbol. And finally my long project, a golden pheasant:
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He is further along than this pic but not by much. I have so many feathers to sculpt.

I'm thinking I'll start back up next week. I want to finish them all in 2022. The hoarfrost boy has been sitting as a WIP for three years now.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heart Of Midnight on December 22, 2021, 08:21:04 PM
 :wow: Wow! The golden pheasant is sure to be really gorgeous!  :inlove:

 :blush: I have had an eternity project in progress for a couple of years now. Actually, I haven’t even started working on it yet. The plan is already drawn and a pony in poor condition awaiting customization. That should be a gift to my brother. I don't know at all when I'll just get it done.  :shrug:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on December 23, 2021, 06:35:55 AM
When the paint goes weird & the sealer goes weird & you have to start over...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on December 23, 2021, 07:29:42 AM
When the paint goes weird & the sealer goes weird & you have to start over...

Aw, I'm sorry. Is it the climate? I have to be careful especially with sealer and not use it when it's too hot. I'd assume it does poorly in cold conditions as well.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on December 23, 2021, 11:56:29 AM
I've been pulled aside from things. Will have to work on the ponies I had planned some other time.

The sculpting on that custom looks excellent, BC, I can't wait to see it completed!

I usually just check the humidity before using sealant.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on December 23, 2021, 05:59:56 PM
When the paint goes weird & the sealer goes weird & you have to start over...

Aw, I'm sorry. Is it the climate? I have to be careful especially with sealer and not use it when it's too hot. I'd assume it does poorly in cold conditions as well.
I think it's more impatience on my part, not to mention the finicky nature of paint. Sometimes it takes a day to dry, sometimes a week...

I'm just like FINE. So you WON'T be done by Christmas...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on December 24, 2021, 12:28:32 PM
Working on my custom Doctor Who Barbie dolls (seeing as I’m not going to pay ridiculous money for the Thirteenth Doctor) so she has the Barbie Space head on a Made to Move body. I’ve done Peri (Sixth Doctor’s companion), the Fifth Doctor even though his hair is lighter than it should be.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on January 09, 2022, 03:31:50 PM
I prepped my larger G5 bait last night, I was able to get head and neck plug parts out okay, yay!  But when it came to removing the paint markings with acetone, well, they didn't come off cleanly at all.  Fortunately I am planning a full body repaint so it won't matter, but if I had wanted to use the body as it was, well, there is just too much paint smearing.  Maybe I really needed to scrub even more with more acetone, I don't know.  Something to keep in mind...
Well, i'm one step closer to my Sugar Moonlight custom army  :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on January 09, 2022, 05:00:26 PM
Stage 2 of repaint seems to be going well. Giving it time. One more big lot, then it's detail work

Oh & By the way, get to Clipper's Sail for some new glitter blanks & a few more blank Boys!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on January 09, 2022, 06:35:37 PM
I started a new project. Sorry, birthflowers! You will have to wait a bit longer. Removing the glitter from this Zipp's wings is a total pain, but doable.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on January 10, 2022, 08:07:12 AM
Sunpony - Are you using 100% acetone? If no, get you some. If yes, then I don't know lol. Paint smears happen with 100% but you usually only have to work on it for a little bit before it's all gone. Nail polish remover with acetone definitely causes smears.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on January 10, 2022, 08:27:33 AM
I think G5 paint is much more stubborn. I've used the same stuff I use on G4 and such and I'm getting a lot more smears. I will emphasize the helpfullness of 100% acetone for sure, but I've also seemed to suck out some of the color of the plastic by removing the paint. There is no winning unless you're doing a FBR.

Still removing glitter from these wings...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on January 10, 2022, 09:10:26 AM
Ah yeah, I haven't worked with G5 yet (or G4 for that matter >.> ). I've pulled some color from G1s before. I thought I had a "rare" white Windy but when I cleaned her, there was purple color on my cotton ball.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on January 11, 2022, 10:13:10 AM
Got a blister on my finger removing doll hair from a custom of Dodo from Doctor Who. I brought a doll for the head to go on to my petite Barbie looks doll and it doesn’t match the body.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on January 12, 2022, 08:02:46 AM
I think G5 paint is much more stubborn. I've used the same stuff I use on G4 and such and I'm getting a lot more smears. I will emphasize the helpfullness of 100% acetone for sure, but I've also seemed to suck out some of the color of the plastic by removing the paint. There is no winning unless you're doing a FBR.

Still removing glitter from these wings...

I THOUGHT I noticed some color fading from the body, too....so it wasn't just my imagination! 

Removing glitter from wings...are you doing one of the large size Zipps? 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on January 12, 2022, 07:18:00 PM
Removing glitter from wings...are you doing one of the large size Zipps? 
:P I am a sucker for punishing myself.

Just finished the FBR on her, actually. I need to paint the wing feathers now, and then work on the small details. I think it's this point that always makes or breaks the custom for me, so I need to really take it slow and just work with tiny, tiny brushes.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TwistedRiver on January 12, 2022, 10:08:53 PM
I've prepped a cave kid for customizing. I'm excited to work on her more but the weather hasn't been right for using my sealant. Curse you winter!
I want to work on a custom pony but finding the right pony to use as well as having the right inspiration just hasn't happened.
I should look around for a cheap G4 or G5 since I've never customized either of them.
I also still need to figure out what to do about the split in my hybrid Ophelia's head and missing hair.
Does anyone know a place to get reasonably priced doll/pony hair? I'm really out of the loop with that side of things.

ETA:
Heard about Shimmer Locks in another thread so going to give them a try. If I like the hair enough then I will probably get more from them for other projects.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: tailrustedtealeaf on January 13, 2022, 08:06:07 AM
I really like Shimmerlocks! My main places are Shimmerlocks and TheDollPlanet. TDP has more selection but Shimmerlocks is just so, so fast and has a very easy system for getting G1 color matches.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on January 13, 2022, 09:27:38 AM
Yeah, Shimmerlocks is great :D I like TheDollPlanet too. They're my go-tos these days.

I'm in a slump again due to RL stuff. I want to finish what I started but now is a bad time.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: starscout on January 15, 2022, 12:02:56 PM
was looking through my art folder and found this little comic strip(?) I had thrown together while working on a particularly frustrating custom
Spoiler
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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on January 17, 2022, 05:58:19 AM
was looking through my art folder and found this little comic strip(?) I had thrown together while working on a particularly frustrating custom
Spoiler
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Nicely done, both cute and highly relatable  :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on January 17, 2022, 06:14:45 AM
Haha :lol: I love the second panel. Sometimes getting that tail in is literally painful. I don't usually style my customs hair, maybe this is why, haha.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on January 17, 2022, 06:43:21 AM
Run out of black nylon hair for my custom Dodo from Doctor Who doll so now I’ve got to get some more nylon hair for her.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on January 18, 2022, 07:34:11 AM
Waiting for paint to dry...

Waiting...

Waiting...

Waiting...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on January 19, 2022, 07:44:00 AM
Trying to figure out which female Doctor Who characters have black hair…

Thinking….

Thinking…

Thinking…

Ouch! My head hurts!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on February 06, 2022, 06:09:49 AM
Sorry Valentine Pony, you have to wait a bit... Sharky-Pony comes first!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heelys on February 06, 2022, 08:52:32 AM
Trying to figure out which female Doctor Who characters have black hair…

Thinking….

Thinking…

Thinking…

Ouch! My head hurts!

If you're working with the revival series, there's Martha Jones! It's got brown tones too, though, so it's up to you if you want to use the same hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on February 07, 2022, 12:42:48 PM
Sharky-Pony, called Squalina, Done!!! I also bought her a wee sharky friend xxx
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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on February 07, 2022, 02:12:23 PM
 :lovey:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on February 07, 2022, 02:19:27 PM
Trying to figure out which female Doctor Who characters have black hair…

Thinking….

Thinking…

Thinking…

Ouch! My head hurts!

If you're working with the revival series, there's Martha Jones! It's got brown tones too, though, so it's up to you if you want to use the same hair.

I’m working on classic and new who, so far from New Who I’ve done Martha, Spy Master (my mum did his beard), classic Who Fifth Doctor is done, working on Romana 1 got some more hair to come.

From Classic Who I know Susan, and Zoe have black hair (I might be wrong because of Black & White Doctor Who).
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on February 08, 2022, 08:28:27 AM
PBW, you know you can make a new thread for her? :) She'd get more views that way. I love her colors!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on February 13, 2022, 04:24:25 AM
Romana 2 now her hair is a mystery it’s normally blonde but goes light brown in some episodes. I’m getting so confused about it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Toilandtrouble123 on February 14, 2022, 06:04:29 AM
Let's see... I'm looking into prospective dolls to do a custom Danny that matches Megan and Molly.
My custom  Simon Belmon outfit and gear for Megan have stalled because I can't find the LEGO skeleton battle pack that has the mace ball I need to copy to finish the Vampire Killer
If scratchbuilt sets count, I've slacked off on the arcade.. And I'm currently looking at making the Sunstone Pyramid

That's really interesting! I've also been making concept ideas for other characters that were never made - The Moochick, Habbit and Moochick's cottage is a big project I've been making rudimentary plans for in particular.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Kazzellin on February 19, 2022, 07:23:59 PM
Haven't done any customs for a while, actually. Just found out photos of my customs didn't get put on my new computer, so downloaded their images from where I've been posting them. At least I found them! Also found out I've not made a custom since 2014. :O Need to fix that problem, once my workshop is cleaned up (we had mice in the house last summer--found out they'll eat the new G1 releases, and G3 ponies; thankfully, they left the Argie Flutterbye I've put off rehairing alone). Pretty sure this corresponds with when I started going back to college for a new degree, actually. (Before you wonder why I've not made any the last 2-3 years, I'm an essential retail worker. Yay.)

Hoping to get back into making customs--I've a lot of projects involving ponies I want to get done, including slush casting custom bases (just a matter of affording the materials to get started on that one!). :) Not to mention, it would be nice to have customs available to sell at the Fair (assuming it still happens).

I've been muddling through making a mold for a Dream Castle gingerbread house, but I'm being befuddled by the towers, at present. :(

Edit: It's been a hot minute since I've even been on the Arena; how do we post photos, these days?  ^^;
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on February 20, 2022, 12:25:58 AM
I have got to do Mr. Smith (computer) from the Sarah Jane Adventures, and I don’t know how to do him. The Doctor Who dolls have been put on hold for the moment because I need to get more heads for the bodies I’ve got. And I’ve got to order more hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on February 20, 2022, 05:21:00 AM
Edit: It's been a hot minute since I've even been on the Arena; how do we post photos, these days?  ^^;

Hey! Welcome back :) The Arena doesn't host photos anymore so you need to find somewhere that does. I use Imgur, but there's Postimages.org, Imgbb, and a few others that are free. Upload your photos there and copy the img url and paste it into your post :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Kazzellin on February 20, 2022, 06:27:40 PM
Edit: It's been a hot minute since I've even been on the Arena; how do we post photos, these days?  ^^;

Hey! Welcome back :) The Arena doesn't host photos anymore so you need to find somewhere that does. I use Imgur, but there's Postimages.org, Imgbb, and a few others that are free. Upload your photos there and copy the img url and paste it into your post :)
Cool! Can't recall whether I have an imgur account or not. Guess I'll need to find out! Not today though; homework calls. :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on February 20, 2022, 10:01:13 PM
Hi Kazzellin-I remember seeing your posts a while back! :)

I've finally figured out the idea for two newborn baby fakie ponies I've got left--the pastel yellow one will be lemonade, and the pastel pink one will be strawberry--strawberry lemonade! :) They'll be painted, rehaired and posted here and for sale sometime in the next week or two. :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on February 21, 2022, 04:25:59 PM
I've finally figured out the idea for two newborn baby fakie ponies I've got left--the pastel yellow one will be lemonade, and the pastel pink one will be strawberry--strawberry lemonade! :) They'll be painted, rehaired and posted here and for sale sometime in the next week or two. :)

That sounds adorable, what a cute set!  I can't wait to see how they turn out.

Ponybookworm, that sharky pony is gorgeous!  Nicely done  :cool:

I haven't been able to do much custom-wise lately (or anything else, ha ha), as I just moved to a new city and started a new job.  But I'm looking forward to getting back into it.  I started a larger-size Sugar Moonlight, so I have her to work on, and I also have an idea for a fun new semi-collaborative project, if I can figure out how to run it.   :biggrin:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: TimeDance on February 22, 2022, 07:09:09 PM
Sharky-Pony, called Squalina, Done!!! I also bought her a wee sharky friend xxx
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The gradients on this pony are amazing!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on February 23, 2022, 05:09:30 AM
Sharky-Pony, called Squalina, Done!!! I also bought her a wee sharky friend xxx
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The gradients on this pony are amazing!
Cheers!!! I'd been wanting to do a gradient Pony for ages, bu7t never really figured out how it would fit. It fits with Squalina because sharks are countershaded, so she could be too
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on February 23, 2022, 07:23:28 AM
Ordered the hair for Romana 1 now I need to get the doll.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on February 25, 2022, 08:57:33 PM
Hi Kazzellin-I remember seeing your posts a while back! :)

I've finally figured out the idea for two newborn baby fakie ponies I've got left--the pastel yellow one will be lemonade, and the pastel pink one will be strawberry--strawberry lemonade! :) They'll be painted, rehaired and posted here and for sale sometime in the next week or two. :)

Here's some sneak peek pics from my website-they just need to be rehaired and they'll be done!
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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heelys on March 08, 2022, 06:38:04 AM
what cuties!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Kazzellin on March 09, 2022, 06:16:49 AM
Why do I always get ideas for custom ponies when I'm supposed to be working on homework? :( *sighs, and jots the idea down in a notebook for later*
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on March 10, 2022, 12:44:55 PM
what cuties!!


Thank you, Heelys!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on March 10, 2022, 12:55:05 PM
Working on re rooting Leela from Doctor Who got to get more nylon hair. Got a blister on my right middle finger because I keep forgetting to put rubber on the handles of my forceps.
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: Leave a Whisper on April 04, 2022, 02:21:34 PM
Sharky-Pony, called Squalina, Done!!! I also bought her a wee sharky friend xxx
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She's just gorgeous. I love the gradients, her hair and her theme. Did you airbrush? :good:

Post Merge: April 04, 2022, 02:21:49 PM

Hi Kazzellin-I remember seeing your posts a while back! :)

I've finally figured out the idea for two newborn baby fakie ponies I've got left--the pastel yellow one will be lemonade, and the pastel pink one will be strawberry--strawberry lemonade! :) They'll be painted, rehaired and posted here and for sale sometime in the next week or two. :)

Here's some sneak peek pics from my website-they just need to be rehaired and they'll be done!
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Aren't they darling? Looking forward to seeing them done.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on April 04, 2022, 02:44:42 PM
LAW she was dyed in teal then dip-dyed in sapphire. Her teal hair was also dip-dyed. I've wanted to do a gradient Pony for ages, & Squalina was perfect for this with the countershading sharks have.

I've never owned an airbrush, & imagine it would be worse than my spray sealant in use
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: starscout on April 04, 2022, 11:51:42 PM
PBW, she is absolutely stunning!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 05, 2022, 07:23:42 AM
I'm finally getting my mind back on my unfinished customs. There are two, my sister's memorial pony and my golden pheasant. I also have an idea for a new one. I think I'll get started today on finishing my sister's pony.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on April 05, 2022, 09:38:06 AM
Did a list of heights for my Doctor Who custom dolls got to get more dolls, some of them are going to have the hair re rooted or painted on hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on April 05, 2022, 03:03:53 PM
Ty Leave a Whisper! I've been busy with my novel's Indiegogo campaign and I intend on finishing those little ones up soon! :3
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on April 05, 2022, 05:34:22 PM
FINALLY getting back into things since moving.  I finished a FBR last night, now I need to paint symbols and eyes and order hair.  Glad to be back into it  :biggrin:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on April 06, 2022, 08:15:53 AM
I've got a lot on my table right now!  I have one commission that is almost completely done, she's painted and rehaired and has her accessories and just needs her wings inserted and secured.

Then I've got a second commission that has her FBR and just needs a sculpted sweater.  I'm in the midst of rehairing her and it's a learning experience since she's got bangs and I've never rooted bangs before.

Then I've got three customs in progress of my own OC ponies from PonyIsland, one is a reindeer and has her sculpted hooves, antlers and tail done and is ready for her FBR.  One is a fairy pony that has his FBR and is ready for his markings.  And the third is a dinopony that is mid sculpting.

Aaaand I've got another in the planning stage!  I want to take a ratty G1 Sundance and turn her into a sort of a Mother Nature.  I'm thinking of sculpting tree roots around her legs and a tree sprouting out of her back with spreading branches almost like an umbrella over her with plenty of flowers and little birds.

BlackCurtains, I'd love to see more progress on your Golden Pheasant pony.  It was coming along so well!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: lowpolyzoe on April 06, 2022, 02:20:58 PM
I've started painting a G4 Fashion Style Twilight Sparkle black to turn it into a super-alicorn/nightmare Twilight, I just have to design her eyes and cutie mark :o I also got a large light-up Celestia that's a bit scuffed but also I don't like that she's transparent but I love her shape so I'm painting her into Daybreaker :) It should be a fun project

Also, also, I ordered some hair from My Little Customs for the first time to try and make an adult Flurry Heart from a styling-size Twilight. It's half a test to see how long it takes to ship to New Zealand from the UK which I'm not particularly hopeful it'll arrive quickly, but there's just nowhere to buy hanks of hair here :work:

It may be distracting me from my cosplay projects but I have to do sewing and armour for that which is hard to self-motivate to do lol.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Leave a Whisper on April 07, 2022, 01:54:38 PM
LAW she was dyed in teal then dip-dyed in sapphire. Her teal hair was also dip-dyed. I've wanted to do a gradient Pony for ages, & Squalina was perfect for this with the countershading sharks have.

I've never owned an airbrush, & imagine it would be worse than my spray sealant in use

Well you did a wonderful job.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on April 08, 2022, 09:45:54 PM
Cheers xxx
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on April 14, 2022, 03:11:02 AM
Just painted a articulated Chelsea body brown because I haven’t got a brown body for my AA Chelsea boy head, plus I’ve got other bodies to paint brown because the Chelsea girl dolls have that horrible painted on torso so I’ve got to paint another body brown.

Articulated Bodies that need to be brown:

Barbie Go Team Roberts Stacie x3
Barbie Go Team Roberts Skipper

Got the body tied to a planter outside the back to dry it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: lowpolyzoe on April 18, 2022, 06:08:34 PM
Hey, does anyone have any tutorials (written or video) on how to get started rehairing a small G4? I've never been able to get their heads off without breaking the neck ring, and I believe to get to the washer I'll have to remote the stump-thing that the head turns on. Does anyone have any resources onhand that could help? Thank you
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on April 18, 2022, 07:37:13 PM
Hey, does anyone have any tutorials (written or video) on how to get started rehairing a small G4? I've never been able to get their heads off without breaking the neck ring, and I believe to get to the washer I'll have to remote the stump-thing that the head turns on. Does anyone have any resources onhand that could help? Thank you

Hmm...I'm pretty sure I saw or read a nice tutorial somewhere when I first customized a G4 but that was about ten years ago and I don't know how to find it now.  But I can tell you how I do it currently!  I assume you mean the standard size brushable G4.  First, a warning - this method is somewhat dangerous as it involves boiling water and somewhat-risky use of a razor-sharp blade!

So, basically I use a saucepan of boiling water, tongs, a towel, and an X-acto knife with a fresh, pointy blade.  While you wait for the water to boil you can cut off the mane as close to the head as you can, and the tail unless you want to have it intact.  Once the water is boiling, just put the pony right in there, and you can turn off the heat at this time if you are just prepping the one pony. Let her simmer for a minute or so.  You can poke her with the tongs and she should feel soft.  Pull her out with the tongs and put her on the towel - be very careful as she may be full of hot water.  Use your hands wrapped in the towel to pop her head off.  Now here is the part where you can very easily injure yourself.  Stand the pony on her legs so the neck plug is straight up.  You are going to use the X-acto knife blade to CAREFULLY cut between the white plug and the colored pony neck.  Ideally your hand that is holding the pony is AWAY from the neck.  I wear leather gloves and just try to be very careful about what direction I am cutting.  Not only is this risky to you, but because the plug is a harder material than the pony neck, it is kind of easy to slip and cut through the neck.  I will alternate between doing this and putting the pony back in the water to reheat/re-soften, until I have cut all the way around the plug.  I wonder if adding acetone to the equation would help loosen the plug glue...I think I might have tried that once...hmm.  Anyway once the plug is loose you can remove it and get to the tail!

By the way, to remove the hair from inside the head I will pop it back in the hot water to resoften, then remove it and scrape the hair in there with some forceps/scissor blade/whatever.  Alternate scraping and heating as needed.  Some are easy, some are incredibly hard.  Again make sure you hold the head in the towel so you don't burn your hands on the hot plastic.

Anyway, it is quite the process, those plugs are really well glued sometimes, as is the hair.  >_<  I usually try to do a batch of several at a time so I have a rhythm going and a constant flow of pony parts between the towel area and the pot of water.

If you hate it and want a prepped G4 send me a PM, I always have several prepped ones sitting around.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 18, 2022, 09:37:30 PM
Thanks, Sunpony! I've never prepped a G4 either. That's good advice. I thought someone had done a tutorial but I can't find it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on April 19, 2022, 05:42:47 AM
Yep, I’ve only done a few G4s but I do it the same way as Sunpony. They’re a pain to get the heads off!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on April 19, 2022, 08:59:02 AM
Yeah, G4s are hard but cute when they're done.  I have a baby G4 custom that someone requested from me and I've been putting it off because removing the heads is such a pain.  But I also have a set of G4 boys that I wanted to make so I really should just suck it up and prep them all at once.  Then I can have the fun of creating them.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on April 19, 2022, 11:15:44 AM
Yep, I’ve only done a few G4s but I do it the same way as Sunpony. They’re a pain to get the heads off!

Me too. It's totally doable, just a bit tedious and somewhat risky!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Kazzellin on April 19, 2022, 02:32:27 PM
Hey, does anyone have any tutorials (written or video) on how to get started rehairing a small G4? I've never been able to get their heads off without breaking the neck ring, and I believe to get to the washer I'll have to remote the stump-thing that the head turns on. Does anyone have any resources onhand that could help? Thank you

Hmm...I'm pretty sure I saw or read a nice tutorial somewhere when I first customized a G4 but that was about ten years ago and I don't know how to find it now.  But I can tell you how I do it currently!  I assume you mean the standard size brushable G4.  First, a warning - this method is somewhat dangerous as it involves boiling water and somewhat-risky use of a razor-sharp blade!

So, basically I use a saucepan of boiling water, tongs, a towel, and an X-acto knife with a fresh, pointy blade.  While you wait for the water to boil you can cut off the mane as close to the head as you can, and the tail unless you want to have it intact.  Once the water is boiling, just put the pony right in there, and you can turn off the heat at this time if you are just prepping the one pony. Let her simmer for a minute or so.  You can poke her with the tongs and she should feel soft.  Pull her out with the tongs and put her on the towel - be very careful as she may be full of hot water.  Use your hands wrapped in the towel to pop her head off.  Now here is the part where you can very easily injure yourself.  Stand the pony on her legs so the neck plug is straight up.  You are going to use the X-acto knife blade to CAREFULLY cut between the white plug and the colored pony neck.  Ideally your hand that is holding the pony is AWAY from the neck.  I wear leather gloves and just try to be very careful about what direction I am cutting.  Not only is this risky to you, but because the plug is a harder material than the pony neck, it is kind of easy to slip and cut through the neck.  I will alternate between doing this and putting the pony back in the water to reheat/re-soften, until I have cut all the way around the plug.  I wonder if adding acetone to the equation would help loosen the plug glue...I think I might have tried that once...hmm.  Anyway once the plug is loose you can remove it and get to the tail!

By the way, to remove the hair from inside the head I will pop it back in the hot water to resoften, then remove it and scrape the hair in there with some forceps/scissor blade/whatever.  Alternate scraping and heating as needed.  Some are easy, some are incredibly hard.  Again make sure you hold the head in the towel so you don't burn your hands on the hot plastic.

Anyway, it is quite the process, those plugs are really well glued sometimes, as is the hair.  >_<  I usually try to do a batch of several at a time so I have a rhythm going and a constant flow of pony parts between the towel area and the pot of water.

If you hate it and want a prepped G4 send me a PM, I always have several prepped ones sitting around.
Also, for the love of everything, cut with the knife going *away* from your body and off-hand. Then if it slips, you're just cutting air, not another part of your body (like your other arm, chest, leg, etc.) :)

Good luck and have fun! :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on April 22, 2022, 04:05:34 PM
I finished a custom I've been working on for literally years a few days ago.  But I haven't taken pictures yet.  I think the pictures won't do her justice so I'm hesitating.  Do you ever feel that way about a custom?  I don't really have any photography skills so  :huh:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 22, 2022, 04:13:06 PM
The thing that affects photos the most is light. Try a natural light, take her outside if you have to.

I know what you mean though. I've had several customs where the photos didn't turn out great, or dulled the sparkle and details or whatever. I think that even if the photos aren't good enough, you should still post your custom :)
Title: thanks!
Post by: mossybranch_g4 on April 23, 2022, 02:18:17 PM
wowowow all of you are so nice thank you !!!!!!! :cry: :cry: :cry: :inlove: :inlove: :inlove:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Colorscapesart on April 29, 2022, 08:03:17 AM
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 (https://flic.kr/p/2nhsTS2) (https://flic.kr/p/2nhsTS2)Kimberly Johns (https://www.flickr.com/photos/187822797@N03/)

Do these seem reasonable?  I love to create but I do not love sitting on my creations.  It seems to fuel me to see them adopted.  I'm a little nervous to be taking a few commissions maybe but I think it will be ok.  I just do not want to let anyone down.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 29, 2022, 08:19:14 AM
I think those are totally reasonable and I think people will be more than willing to pay those prices. And you can always raise them when you've gotten into a groove.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on April 30, 2022, 03:16:36 AM
I agree with BC! I actually think you could even go a bit higher on the first four categories, but it's difficult to say what people are willing to pay these days...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Kazzellin on April 30, 2022, 11:42:04 AM
Does anyone have a source for carousel horse poles? I had one, years ago, for a carousel swap I participated in, but that was two computers ago, so I no longer have the bookmark. I managed to find ONE seller on ebay (who only had two available), and bought one there, but I was hoping to make a few for the Fair. I might have to make a mold of the pole I bought, and cast the visible pieces in resin. :awake: Thoughts?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 30, 2022, 02:40:04 PM
I looked around for you and all I could find were these

https://www.greenmtnceramics.com/ecommerce/supplies/carousel-pole-kit.html

https://cherrytreetoys.com/wood-parts/dowels/

eBay, might be the same seller you found (https://www.ebay.com/itm/313873524401?chn=ps&norover=1&mkevt=1&mkrid=711-117182-37290-0&mkcid=2&itemid=313873524401&targetid=1262749492022&device=c&mktype=&googleloc=9054499&poi=&campaignid=15428034462&mkgroupid=133947154481&rlsatarget=pla-1262749492022&abcId=9300763&merchantid=6296724&gclid=Cj0KCQjwvLOTBhCJARIsACVldV0g-mgeOVxtHe4NC_r-AbGfAOpvoTSwv1mxwsflVqY0B6Sj5adXaGIaAsnLEALw_wcB)

I think making a mold is a good idea. If you go the dowel route you can carve them yourself, if you're up to that.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 02, 2022, 06:18:59 PM
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 (https://flic.kr/p/2nhsTS2) (https://flic.kr/p/2nhsTS2)Kimberly Johns (https://www.flickr.com/photos/187822797@N03/)

Do these seem reasonable?  I love to create but I do not love sitting on my creations.  It seems to fuel me to see them adopted.  I'm a little nervous to be taking a few commissions maybe but I think it will be ok.  I just do not want to let anyone down.

OOOOHHHH I just have to say that Repose Last Unicorn IS GORGEOUS!!!!!!! :shocked:

also I'm new to this thread How does one come up with prices for there customs to sell... to make profit and to be reasonable as well.... The prices you set Colorscapesart are perfect for you cause YOUR REALLY Talented!!!!!! Even Id pay that much for a custom made by you.... But for me (I have yet a lot of learning to do) But I can do simple Customs like
A full paint job and decal symbol work that works out great in the end. I don't usually paint my symbols but I use a computer to get them done.
I've been commissioned a few times I never knew what to sell the commission for so I done it for Free. So the one I'm doing the Mack Commission is free for my cousin, but for future ponies and commissions what should I charge? or how do I determine the amount...

Edit I'd say a $25 on the first category to be honest for your work. I don't know about mine...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 02, 2022, 08:11:48 PM
Have you ever just been looking through your baits, picked up a pony and got suddenly inspired to do it right away? 

That happened to me tonight. I was looking through my G4 baits and found a Lyra that I had prepped years ago when I bought her for $2 I think in one of those plastic bags. Right away I knew I wanted to do something shamrock-y with her.

I haven’t done any painting or even finalized her design yet but her rehair is already done and the glue is drying!  That never happens for me. I always think of an idea first then find a bait to fit the idea.

Colorscapesart:  I forgot to mention earlier, I find your paint only price is too low but the others sound about right to me I think. Though I think you could go higher on your repose too…it looks like a lot of work!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on May 03, 2022, 02:13:55 AM
Colorscapesart, I agree with folks saying it's too low! I think you'll definitely get sales, but I think you could ask higher - if you felt comfortable. It might be one of those things where if it's too low you'll be inundated with requests and get burnt out, but if you ask too high you'll be waiting longer between commissions. You could always offer like - in order to pick up customers, first ten commissioners get the special pricing, or something? Then once you feel comfortable turning down the cheap work, up your prices. I could also see you offering different pricing for each gen - say, for a tiny G4, I could see something relatively simple like a mandala pattern being $15, if you can whip that out in an hour or less. But for a G1, that's like 3x the body space! $15 for 3x the work doesn't work! I'd also check out other customizers, and see what they're charging for your skill level! I do think the resculpting/complex custom prices seem pretty good; I don't see a lot of customizers charging more than $150 per pony. (But again, you do you!)

I've hit a pretty big personal art goal, I managed to repaint a pony and NOT wipe and repaint her eyes ten times! I always manage to find something I dislike about the eyes, and this time I just ... didn't! I think it was a combo of being very careful about how I did the eyes, and having higher quality paint/brushes (so less dumb errors like the paint getting watery), and I had a few near-misses where I was able to clean up boo-boos without having to pile on the paint or wipe it off entirely. And I lowkey gave myself permission to make the eyes 'sisters, not twins' since I realized this mold already has mismatching eyes in the base sculpt! Very pleased!! :heart: Plus she turned out looking great, so I'm happy all around!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 03, 2022, 05:34:44 AM
Congrats Snap! Eyes are so hard.

Starflash - Never do artwork for free unless it's something you WANT to do. If you feel you need to charge for your customs, then do so. I've never been good at gauging prices myself. The few times I took commissions I charged way too low, but I didn't know that at the time. I wasn't confident in myself and was just happy someone wanted some of my work but I ended up shorting myself.

At basic level, you want payment for your time and supplies. I find pricing for supplies difficult because I usually buy in bulk, like bulk clay. How can you charge someone for using a little bit of something you already have? You know? Time, the very best thing is to literally time yourself when you work and pay yourself what you think you're worth. This is where confidence comes in because you shouldn't feel bad about what you charge. If you're not getting any interest, then reevaluate. You can always change prices.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 03, 2022, 07:21:37 AM
Congrats Snap! Eyes are so hard.

Starflash - Never do artwork for free unless it's something you WANT to do. If you feel you need to charge for your customs, then do so. I've never been good at gauging prices myself. The few times I took commissions I charged way too low, but I didn't know that at the time. I wasn't confident in myself and was just happy someone wanted some of my work but I ended up shorting myself.

At basic level, you want payment for your time and supplies. I find pricing for supplies difficult because I usually buy in bulk, like bulk clay. How can you charge someone for using a little bit of something you already have? You know? Time, the very best thing is to literally time yourself when you work and pay yourself what you think you're worth. This is where confidence comes in because you shouldn't feel bad about what you charge. If you're not getting any interest, then reevaluate. You can always change prices.

Thank you BlackCurtains for the info! Very much appreciated  :biggrin:

I need to invest in a airbrush and I was now curious if one uses an airbrush where do you airbrush? What does your setup look like? Like is it in the garage or do you have an art room...
I don't have an art room I have a kitchen table & the garage is sometimes very cold depending on the weather...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 03, 2022, 07:49:45 AM
I actually airbrush in a cardboard box that I put on my desk when I need it. I keep it in a closet most of the time so it doesn't get dusty. I can use the same box, hmm, maybe 6 times before I need a new box. I've always airbrushed inside because going outside was difficult. It is better to do it outside if you can, or in the garage in your case. Always wear a mask though, you don't want to breathe in the fumes.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 03, 2022, 08:10:06 AM
Awe I never thought of the fumes of the paint from airbrushing... does air brushing use different paint like different acrylic
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 03, 2022, 08:48:01 AM
The paint has to be a certain consistency, thin. You can buy already thinned airbrush paints. I use Createx. Or you can use regular acrylic and water it down. I have watered down some colors in the past and you've got to be careful because if it's too thick or too thin it'll spit and splatter. Honestly, the Createx might cost more but I find it easier to use. I'm sure there are other brands of airbrush acrylic.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 03, 2022, 09:51:12 AM
I just popped in to hobby lobby for a bit to look at what they sold for airbrushing the guy didn't want to sell me a good quality one until I was more Familiar with airbrushing... I see his point he was going to sell me a $20 set & canister the aircan thing for $8 & then all new paint I was overwhelmed so I'm glad I just took the free pamphlet on airbrushing and then I'll look up some tutorials on the net that I found.

But I didn't see the name of the paint he was trying to sell me... where do you find Createx paint?
Thank you soo much for all the info you have and are willing to give me BlackCurtains  :biggrin:

Edit: I just took some time & watched some tutorials on airbrushing. I learned about air compressors & different model airbrushes. Thinning paint and adjusting the pi cleaning the airbrush. & everything...

What kind of airbrush do you use single or double action?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 03, 2022, 12:22:39 PM
I have a double action Paasche. It's about 9 years old now, but still works perfectly. I also use a compressor I bought from a website that just sold compressors. Mine is a small one for make-up but it has the power to do ponies.

I get my paint and most of my other art supplies from Blick Art Materials (https://www.dickblick.com/)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 03, 2022, 04:26:03 PM
I'm really glad I went with my gut and decided not to get one today. I think I like the double action as well. Thank you BlackCurtains  :biggrin:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 04, 2022, 06:54:43 AM
You're welcome :)


I'm about to do something I've never done before (that I can remember) and that's working on more than one project at a time. I actually have 4 customs I want to do. Two are WIPs and two are new ideas, the baits are prepped but that's it. I think if I rotate them, like when one is drying, work on another, not only will I be done faster but it might prevent burnout. Sometimes I get crazy complicated ideas and as I work on them I start to hate them :lol: I'm hoping that keeping it fresh will help.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Colorscapesart on May 04, 2022, 07:43:38 AM
BC- congrats on stretching yourself!  I go between the excitement of wanting to start all the things! and the tension of too much to do. Seems to be eternal. 
I also have a double action Paasche (from Hobby Lobby about 10 years ago).  They seem to be selling iwata these days.  I'm only sad because it was nice to snag parts as needed when they carried Paasche.
Airbrushing is an art and technique all it's own and from what little I know it seems to be a long game.  I get better and worse and I always learn.

Thank you guys for your input on the pricing <3 I have a test repaint only up for $15 so if it's snapped up immediately I may creep that to $20.  When it's original hair it saves me a good bit of time and supplies and I don't mind passing that on.  Every repaint only that I do is to practice more than anything.  Right now I'm practicing with my Archer and Olive acrylograph pens.  I love how vibrant and easy there are but some colors require more layers and they can get kinda chunky looking after 4 or 5 layers.  They are fun but not a replacement for a paintbrush as far as blending and fine details go. 



Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 06, 2022, 10:33:09 AM
Would you guys think I was crazy if I admitted that I have 12 customs in various stages right now?  :devious:

It's an all time high for me that's for sure.  I was getting my airbrushing station set up in a different place and decided that if I was going to do some airbrushing I'd like to get a whole bunch of baits prepped at once.

Oh actually I just remembered one more...make that 13!  :lmao:  If anyone's interested I can make a list with what stage of completion they are in.  :D

BlackCurtains:  the first time I saw what Colorscapesart was doing with the acrylograph pens I had to order some.  My first set is waiting for me at the post office right now...I can't wait to try them out!

Colorscapesart:  can't wait to see the rest of the butterfly girls!  :inlove:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on May 06, 2022, 10:44:49 AM
Would you guys think I was crazy if I admitted that I have 12 customs in various stages right now?  :devious:

It's an all time high for me that's for sure.  I was getting my airbrushing station set up in a different place and decided that if I was going to do some airbrushing I'd like to get a whole bunch of baits prepped at once.

Oh actually I just remembered one more...make that 13!  :lmao:  If anyone's interested I can make a list with what stage of completion they are in.  :D

I'd love to see a list! And totally not crazy, whatever works for you! Sometimes it's easier to work on several customs at once, makes the process more streamlined just like BC said.

I'm now working on a way overdue contest prize custom for Goanna, and while getting the supplies out I'm trying to continue working on the custom for my friend, that one has been sitting around for months now if not closer to a year... :blush: I have several more ideas I'd like to play around with but we'll see, I don't want to get carried away and burn myself out again.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 06, 2022, 11:07:46 AM

I'd love to see a list! And totally not crazy, whatever works for you! Sometimes it's easier to work on several customs at once, makes the process more streamlined just like BC said.


Ok, here they are in order from oldest to newest:

Frisk - OC fairy pony of mine from PonyIsland - FBR done, needs detail painting, rehairing and cellophane wings
Joy - OC reindeer pony of mine from PonyIsland - apoxie sculpting done of hooves, tail and antlers, needs sanding, FBR, detail painting & rehairing
Angel - OC dino pony of mine from PonyIsland - working on full body mods, frill, ears and toes are done and tail is mid process
Those three are personal G3 customs and I just tend to work on them when the mood strikes me in between others.  :D

G1 Nachlicht - FBR done, dark blue highlights done, needs detail painting & rehairing
Harley Quinn (G3) - in process sculpting clothing from Cosclay, so far just her shorts are done
20's Flapper girl (G3) - FBR in flesh tone done, working on designing her dress using fringed trim
Diamond (G3) - white FBR with iridescent silver highlights done, needs detail painting and rehairing
Black Diamond (G3) - Black FBR with iridescent silver highlights done, needs detail painting and rehairing
Fjord Horse (G1) - Dun FBR done, needs shading on legs and muzzle, then detail painting and rehairing
Unnamed G1 - FBR with color change paint in red/orange/gold - not sure where I'm going with that one!  lol
Unnamed G1 - FBR with color change paint in purple/green/teal - also not sure there
Unnamed G3 - FBR with rose gold paint that I'm not totally happy with so not sure there either
Shamrock (G4) - no FBR, rehaired, needs detail painting

Whew!  That should keep me busy for a while!  :rofl:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on May 06, 2022, 01:13:41 PM
Thanks for sharing your list - I can't wait to see those ponies completed! (Omg a Fjord horse :heart:)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 06, 2022, 02:55:23 PM
That's quite a list. Mine is short but has new things I've never done before.

WIP 1 G3 - The Golden Pheasant. Honestly, the hardest sculpting part is done (the tail). The wings, fancy side-butt feathers, neck feathers and chest and body feathers are next to sculpt. I think I can get away with doing like half 3D half 2D on the chest and body.
WIP 2 G1 - Black Hoarfrost Pegasus. This is a Big Brother I started ...4 years? ago. Inspired by the PonyIsland advent from that year. Again, the hard part is done, his wings. All he needs is airbrushed, detailed and rehaired.
FRILLY PINK DRESS G1- Yes. I'm going to attempt the sculpting with papier-mâché.
Koi G3 - Assuming I get the hand of the papier-mâché, I'll do similar on this one which will have a 3D koi fish on it.

@kaelynn - How is the Cosclay? I've never used it. I second the Fjord horse love and I'm interested in the color shift ones.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 07, 2022, 01:53:40 PM
BlackCurtains:  the Cosclay is very similar to Super Sculpey in feel and workability.  I haven't done much to test it's flexibility after baking yet but I'm hoping that flexibility will be enough to prevent any breakage or cracking in the finished pony.

I love your list!  So many interesting things!  I can't wait to see your finished ponies!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 11, 2022, 08:42:35 PM
BlackCurtains & Kaelynn
Your lists are amazing!
I was working on 3 ponies at once last Month now its 2 ponies :blush:
4Speed I finished
I've been commissioned to do Mack#52 on the Bears team
& I restarted my Harley Quinn last month.
Harley Quinn started out as my practice pony but merged into Harley last year but poor quality so last month I made a pic on the computer what she is supposed to look like & stripped her of her paint. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 12, 2022, 08:53:39 AM
Well I ended up adding another two customs to my list because I dug up a couple of WIPs from several years ago.  :rofl:

G1 Big Brother "Big Mac" - orange FBR done, working on eyes and apple symbol
G1 Posey bait chocolate Rocky Mountain Horse - brown FBR done, working on eyes
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 12, 2022, 10:02:00 AM
Well I ended up adding another two customs to my list because I dug up a couple of WIPs from several years ago.  :rofl:

G1 Big Brother "Big Mac" - orange FBR done, working on eyes and apple symbol
G1 Posey bait chocolate Rocky Mountain Horse - brown FBR done, working on eyes

OOHHH These two will be awsome I Love Rocky Mountain horses and a big brother Big Mac sounds amazing!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 14, 2022, 07:00:17 AM
Well I ended up adding another two customs to my list because I dug up a couple of WIPs from several years ago.  :rofl:

G1 Big Brother "Big Mac" - orange FBR done, working on eyes and apple symbol
G1 Posey bait chocolate Rocky Mountain Horse - brown FBR done, working on eyes

OOHHH These two will be awsome I Love Rocky Mountain horses and a big brother Big Mac sounds amazing!

Thanks!  I hope they turn out well!

I need some suggestions or advice on three of the customs I'm working on....

I've got these two FBRs done, I took a pic in the sun and out to show the sparklyness but the pics still don't quite do them justice.  I'm just not quite sure where to go next with them!  I have no ideas for hair, eyes, nothing...I'm wondering if I should try selling them as is to other customizers?

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And I'm wondering how the repaint is looking on my Fjord Horse?  I think it looks good and is ready for eyes, but I need some fresh eyes to look at it and tell me what they think.  My husband says it looks amazing but he thinks everything I make is amazing so his opinion is biased.   :lol:

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Does it look like a Fjord Horse?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 14, 2022, 08:30:47 AM
Ooh, those shimmery bodies are gorgeous! I don't know where you do your hair shopping but The Doll Planet (https://www.etsy.com/shop/thedollplanethair) has metallic colors that would look fab with them. This might sound weird, but when I first saw them I thought of jewel beetles. For the first one, you could do an Egyptian theme maybe? The second, a space theme?

The horse looks great! I think it looks like a Fjord.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 14, 2022, 11:47:03 AM
Ooh, those shimmery bodies are gorgeous! I don't know where you do your hair shopping but The Doll Planet (https://www.etsy.com/shop/thedollplanethair) has metallic colors that would look fab with them. This might sound weird, but when I first saw them I thought of jewel beetles. For the first one, you could do an Egyptian theme maybe? The second, a space theme?

The horse looks great! I think it looks like a Fjord.

Ooh I love the Egyptian theme!  As soon as I read that I knew what I would do…thank you!   :biggrin:

I’ll have to ponder a space theme for the unicorn. Nothing jumps right out at me yet.  :wonder:

So far I’ve just been using up the hair that I had purchased from Dollyhair but I just got an order from The Doll Planet with the hair for the Fjord horse and I was impressed with how quickly it came.  I’ll check out their metallic colors, they sound really interesting!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 17, 2022, 04:22:27 PM
Oh yess Egyptian theme for the Pegasus definitely! For the unicorn maybe some planets & stars.
As for the Fjord horse I don't know what kind of horse that is but it looks Great!

Does anyone know how dismantle a G2? My mom brought home a hole bag of G2s for me from church rummage sale & they need help...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on May 17, 2022, 04:45:56 PM
Does anyone know how dismantle a G2? My mom brought home a hole bag of G2s for me from church rummage sale & they need help...

If they are the "normal" kind, I believe the heads just pop off.  The catch is that they are made of very stiff material compared to other generations so it is hard to get them off...I recommend boiling the pony to soften it.  But be careful of the hot water, use a big towel to handle the pony.  I made two G2 customs and I don't even remember how I got the heads off...but I'm guessing it was with boiling water.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 18, 2022, 12:44:16 PM
Does anyone know how dismantle a G2? My mom brought home a hole bag of G2s for me from church rummage sale & they need help...

If they are the "normal" kind, I believe the heads just pop off.  The catch is that they are made of very stiff material compared to other generations so it is hard to get them off...I recommend boiling the pony to soften it.  But be careful of the hot water, use a big towel to handle the pony.  I made two G2 customs and I don't even remember how I got the heads off...but I'm guessing it was with boiling water.
Thank you I'll have to give that a shot when I have time. I also have a mechanical one that's in need of help too but I don't know if I'm going to tear it apart or leave it alone... maybe a good cleaning would help the mold smell And let them dry fully. They were placed in a plastic bag wet so they have a moldy smell too them now... I don't know how to get that out.

Edit I think I got the smell of mold off the G2s I don't think I have to do anything else with them as far as restoring them. Thanks...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Colorscapesart on May 20, 2022, 06:50:40 AM
Oh yess Egyptian theme for the Pegasus definitely! For the unicorn maybe some planets & stars.
As for the Fjord horse I don't know what kind of horse that is but it looks Great!

Does anyone know how dismantle a G2? My mom brought home a hole bag of G2s for me from church rummage sale & they need help...

I second Sunpony.  The tricky part is if they are a "gimmicky" G2 with weird motion legs or tails.  Do you have any pics?

Kaelynn those baits are to die for!!  What paint did you use if I may ask?  That Fjord is incredible too.  I love how you captured so much subtle coloring in the coat. :swoon:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on May 21, 2022, 06:51:46 AM
Kaelynn those baits are to die for!!  What paint did you use if I may ask?  That Fjord is incredible too.  I love how you captured so much subtle coloring in the coat. :swoon:

Thank you so much!   :blush:  The paint is a brand called Spazstix which is actually a transparent glaze like coating that needs to go over another color.  I did a coat of black on both ponies first to try to get the most sparkle and color.  I don't remember who it was, but I actually heard about the Spazstix from another customizer years ago (2013 I think?) and purchased it then.  I tried it once at that time and wasn't very successful with it and managed to ruin a (fortunately cheap) airbrush with it by trying to run straight water through the airbrush afterwards to clean it.  The leftover glaze ended up seizing up in the brush like glue!  I've learned better now and I run a homemade thinning solution through several times before running a cleaner through after using it.  It still leaves the airbrush a bit sticky so I have a dedicated (cheap!) airbrush for it.

It's funny, I had almost convinced myself that the customizer who was using it years ago was you, but I guess not!   :lol:

For those wondering what a Fjord horse is, here's one of my reference pics:
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I did some more work on him, including his eyes and I'm much happier now.  He just needs his hair!
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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on May 23, 2022, 04:00:17 PM
Colorscapesart - Yes I do have pics. I should of said that some of them need help not all the G2s need help.
I have for sales list going up soon so I'll just show that giving you all first dibs k.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/rxnLHpaFJ78sgq3Q7

Kaelynn - the Fjord Custom is exactly what a Fjord horse looks like! Great Job!! Beautiful!

Pic#6 has baits
Clever Clover - missing an eye & discoloration
Berry something next to Clever Clover- missing aneye & full-body discoloration
The one next to the red X Sun something both eyes are missing along with 2 hair plug. Mechanical still works.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on May 27, 2022, 11:21:15 PM
I've finally made some progress with the forest druid themed pony for my friend! I've been working on this pony on and off (mostly off, lol!) for a couple of years now, I think... :yikes: The last WIP pics I found were from April 2021. Granted, this pony required a lot of prep work. Someone had already customised the pony once, the old paintwork was partially stripped when I received the bait. A lot of acetone and elbow grease was required to remove the rest of the paint, though! I also had to sculpt new eyes since this was a Gingerbread and my friend asked for normal eyes.

Here's the progress from the last couple of days:
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Actually I'm lying, I've already painted two out of the four animals. :biggrin: But they'll remain a secret until the pony is finished! ;)

I've always done sculpting first but I'm trying something different now, horns and antlers sometimes take damage in the rehair process so I'm planning to finish the paintwork and rehairing first and sculpt the antlers later. I hope it works out!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: bright rabbit 1 on May 28, 2022, 04:50:55 AM
Still working on my Doctor Who custom dolls near enough completed the First Doctor Era. Trying to figure out if I should use a Draco Malfoy doll for the First Doctor and add lines to the face. Wish they did Lucius Malfoy doll so that I could use him.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 28, 2022, 05:49:38 AM
Griffin, he looks beautiful. I was staring at the antlers for a while because at first they looked like glass. Then you said you hadn't sculpted them yet and I realized that's aluminum foil :lol:

I've put my ponies on hold for the moment. I want to make a wing sculpting tutorial, so I'm going to do that instead. I'll probably end up making two or maybe three customs just because I'll have the wings.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on May 28, 2022, 10:02:56 AM
Griffin, he looks beautiful. I was staring at the antlers for a while because at first they looked like glass. Then you said you hadn't sculpted them yet and I realized that's aluminum foil :lol:


Thanks! Oh wow, glass antlers would be so cool! And fragile :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on May 29, 2022, 11:30:23 AM
Griffin, he looks beautiful. I was staring at the antlers for a while because at first they looked like glass. Then you said you hadn't sculpted them yet and I realized that's aluminum foil :lol:


Thanks! Oh wow, glass antlers would be so cool! And fragile :lol:

You could use clear resin.  Then they'd look like glass without being glass.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on June 17, 2022, 03:29:43 PM
When using sealer what kind do you use. Asking about both gloss & matte.
Thank you everyone
*Starflashbaby*
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on June 17, 2022, 03:33:56 PM
When using sealer what kind do you use. Asking about both gloss & matte.
Thank you everyone
*Starflashbaby*

I use Vallejo brand polyurethane matte (which I learned the hard way you have to roll it around to homogenize it before every use! But it is great once you know that!).  For eyes I use a Games Workshop gloss. These are both applied with paintbrushes.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on June 18, 2022, 01:13:45 AM
When using sealer what kind do you use. Asking about both gloss & matte.
Thank you everyone
*Starflashbaby*

I use Vallejo brand polyurethane matte (which I learned the hard way you have to roll it around to homogenize it before every use! But it is great once you know that!).  For eyes I use a Games Workshop gloss. These are both applied with paintbrushes.

Polyurethane (matte) for me too, I use Folk Art brand but I've noticed it's hard to find these days... I should keep my eyes open for Vallejo!

My gloss varnish is also Folk Art, for some weird reason it's for both indoor and outdoor use. I've never noticed any problems with it.

And yes, it's important to mix the varnish properly before use! The bottle tells me to shake it gently or roll on the tabletop, but I also learned it the hard way that this only works when it's a fresh bottle. Now I always give it a good stir, otherwise it will come out glossy. :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on June 18, 2022, 04:44:50 AM
I use Testor's Dulcote. It's a spray. It doesn't go tacky in the heat, so it's perfect for me.

For eyes and shiny bits I like Triple Thick.

I also use Sculpey glaze, matte and gloss, more for my miniatures than ponies.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on June 18, 2022, 12:50:11 PM
SunPony Is it difficult to use the Vallejo Polyurethane?
BlackCurtains I never thought of using Testors Dulcote but the last time I used a spray it was sticky...  :huh:
Griffin - I saw the Folkart one but then I saw this on Amazon thought I should share it with everyone  :biggrin:

This is the Matte Acrylic Matte Varnish
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027ACI0G/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_2?smid=AAEDTWA517U80&th=1

And this is the Gloss Varnish
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0027A3HNI/ref=ox_sc_saved_image_2?smid=AAEDTWA517U80&th=1

I like using Acrylic Paints so I thought this might work and thought you might like it too. I never tried it yet but when I get the money I'll buy it... even though its sooo tempting to buy now that its on sale right now.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on June 20, 2022, 09:32:23 AM
SunPony Is it difficult to use the Vallejo Polyurethane?
No, you just make sure your pony is thoroughly dry, mix the sealant (see Griffin's comments above), then paint the sealant on with a paintbrush.  You do need to make sure your brush is very clean and isn't getting any tiny fibers into the sealant, that is probably the only potentially hard part.  Then after it is completely dry you do a second coat.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: RedLynx on June 26, 2022, 09:34:56 AM
Life got crazy for a while and I dropped off the face of the forums.  Well, we have finally settled in and I've unpacked some boxes and found my ponies and my customizing supplies.  Looks like I just need some fresh paints and a new rehairing tool.  I'm super eager to work on a new custom and have pulled out a Boysenberry Pie bait.  I'm thinking about making a summer custom to do with pineapples.  While I really miss custom swaps, I've never made a custom for myself before, so this could be fun!  :art: :pineapple:

Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on June 26, 2022, 01:56:04 PM
Welcome back to the world of ponies & customizing RedLynx! What are you turning Boysenberry Pie into?
www.shimmerlocks.com
Is the place I use to get har now & I believe you can buy a re rooting tool there as well.

For my last post I brought an 8oz thing of acrylic gloss from Amazon.. I didn't have to mix it or anything once the paint was dry I just painted this on top and the paint became glossy.

Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: RedLynx on June 26, 2022, 05:08:49 PM
Thanks, Starflashbaby!  That's a great site.  I'm not 100% set on my design yet, I just know I want the basic theme to be pineapples.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on June 28, 2022, 02:10:56 PM
Welcome back, RedLynx :)

This custom I'm working on... I mean, I don't even know if I can call it a custom at this point. It's a sculpture with pony parts. I'm having a hard time painting it because I only have one angled brush and it's a short handle. I can't reach some places very well, or see them when I can't pick it up when it's wet. It's taking FOR EV ERRRRR

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I do think it's going to be worth it though.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on June 29, 2022, 12:20:31 PM
Welcome back, RedLynx!  I've just recently come back myself and I feel the pain of having to replace almost all of my paints, though my rehairing tool was still good.   :thumb:

Finally finished two of the commissions I've been working on for the past few weeks.  I've got one more on the workbench that is seriously going to test my detail painting skill.  The symbol is an open book with a white rose in the middle and she wants it on both sides so I have to do it twice!   :shocked:

Wish me luck!! :yikes:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 04, 2022, 01:12:56 PM
RedLynx oohhh Pineapples is a Great theme!

BC body parts sounds mysterious! I like it!

Kaelynn you can do it! :cheer:

I have a question what is HQG1C ponies mean in the customizing world?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 04, 2022, 03:09:35 PM
HQG1C are ponies that are fan made. They are just like regular G1s, only they have their own designs.

They sell blanks of some poses, like a Big Brother. Some are glittery and blank. There were also some black ones, but I think they're sold out. The blanks are getting harder to find. I hope they make more.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Kazzellin on July 05, 2022, 09:01:51 PM
That's odd; they had a few completely blank ponies with them at the fair. Now I wish I'd bought them, but I decided to pass. ^^; Ah, well.

RedLynx, good to see you! I've only been back for a few months, at this point. Have yet to even look over my custom supplies, so I'm hoping my paints haven't dried up. :(
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 06, 2022, 06:13:09 AM
You can add water to acrylics if they've dried up :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 06, 2022, 12:04:11 PM
HQG1C are ponies that are fan made. They are just like regular G1s, only they have their own designs.

They sell blanks of some poses, like a Big Brother. Some are glittery and blank. There were also some black ones, but I think they're sold out. The blanks are getting harder to find. I hope they make more.

oh wow!!! so that's why there are so many customs of big brother ponies! they where HQG1C's That I was seeing... they where not actually big brothers from the G1 line? do people use a 3D Printer to make these fan made Ponies or how are they made I was wondering how they got so many glittery bodys?

Thank you BC 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 06, 2022, 01:02:59 PM
Yes, most of the Big Brothers you see are HQG1C these days.

They are actually made in a factory in China, I believe. Some people got together from the community to fund the project. The main guy is named Clipper in the community. There actually used to be a HQG1C forum here, but it didn't get a lot of activity so it was take down.

Here are some links I know of to find the ponies they make and the blanks.

https://www.clipperssail.com/

https://www.etsy.com/shop/AHorseOfEveryColor

Here is the Facebook page and the forum.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/hqg1c

www.hqg1c.com
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 08, 2022, 02:24:07 PM
That's so awesome I might have to buy a few of these blanks!!! Thanks again BC
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 12, 2022, 10:23:01 AM
I'm almost done with this custom :drunk: Just a few more layers of fur then a trim and pictures and I can send him in to the judges. I can't post him anywhere until after the winners are announced and the festival hasn't started yet. The deadline was the 22nd so I'm assuming it starts next week.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on July 14, 2022, 06:46:22 AM
BC: can't wait to see him!

I've considered the HQG1C ponies before but I just can't justify the cost.  I understand the process and why they are so expensive but it puts them out of my reach unfortunately.  It's too bad because I'd love more Big Brother poses to work with, not to mention how pretty the sparkly ones are!

As far as my customs go, I finally managed to finish the symbol painting on the commission I've been working on.  It's been a challenge and a half but it's finally to the point that I'm happy enough with it to stop working on it at least!   :lol:  I hope to finish the rest of him today, do his hair and get him posted tomorrow.   :satisfied:

I haven't worked on any other ponies because I felt guilty working on something else when I knew that commission needed to be done so now I feel like I have the freedom to start working on some personal projects again.  My G1 Nightlight replica is almost done and I did a rehair of a G1 birthflower pony that's almost done as well so I'm planning to get those finished up in the next couple of days.

What's everyone else working on?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 14, 2022, 07:25:07 AM
Are you entering the custom contest, kaelynn? :)

I'm probably going to do something simple after this. I have a G3 unicorn I want to make wings for and then make all sparkly. All white. I have this mirror glitter I picked up from somewhere and boy is it shiny and sparkly! I also have an extreme glitter paint. Not sure which to use. For hair... hmm, I might order some tinsel. I've got several Swarovski crystals to put on him too.

I also have the winged Big Brother from three years or so ago to finish. He just needs to be airbrushed and rehaired.

My main focus though is going to be needle felting for a while. And getting back into making miniatures. I want to open an Etsy shop before my birthday in October. So I need things to list :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on July 15, 2022, 06:30:42 AM
BC, I am!  Unfortunately, I haven't had time to do more than prep my bait and order the necessary bits and pieces so far.  My husband leaves for work on Sunday though so I'll have all next week to work on it as much as possible without him feeling left out so hopefully I'll be able to get it done in time.   :thumb:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 15, 2022, 07:41:40 AM
Can't wait to see what you make! :D

Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Kazzellin on July 15, 2022, 03:40:42 PM
My main focus though is going to be needle felting for a while. And getting back into making miniatures. I want to open an Etsy shop before my birthday in October. So I need things to list :P
Ohh! Needle felting! :D That always looks fun, but I've enough hobbies so I shouldn't add to them. ^^; You sure you want to do Etsy, though? With the new rules and fees they've added, a lot of people with tangible good to ship out are looking into their own websites or other options. The CEO has been quoted as stating that Etsy is supposed to be a direct competitor of Amazon ( :what: ), so a lot of what's being sold isn't necessarily hand-made items anymore, but items bought via AE and Wish and resold, just like on Amazon. :huh:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 16, 2022, 07:34:35 AM
Yes, I've read articles and videos made by handmade sellers who say it's worth it. Besides, if I want to be serious I need to get myself out there. If I can start on Etsy and get sales then I can look into my own site, which would come with hosting fees anyway.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 17, 2022, 12:10:09 PM
Does anyone know where to find G2 jewel eyes or what size jewel they are to buy at hobby lobby??? I'm working on a G2 Harley Quinn and I'd like to change the eye colors... right now they are a dark red I was thinking more 2 toned and what do you think if I make her Pink and blue Eyed?  ^.^
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 17, 2022, 01:04:05 PM
SS12 is the size you need. I don't shop at Hobby Lobby... I get my crystals here - Artbeads (https://artbeads.com/prestige-crystal-2088-flatback-ss12/)

I don't know what her regular eyes colors are but pink and blue sounds cool ^^;
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 17, 2022, 03:16:35 PM
Thank you BlackCurtains for the info. I think I'll make a thread about Harley Quinn there we can talk about her separately.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 23, 2022, 02:48:45 PM
I worked on my Koi custom today. I tried different things for the fins but nothing was working out. I have one more idea, but it's late now so I'll do it tomorrow. I need to order tinsel from Shimmerlocks and picked a couple of the metallic colors out too. I'm trying to save some money, so I might slim down my choices later. But really I want everything on Shimmerlocks :P :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 25, 2022, 06:46:24 PM
BC there are a lot at shimmerlocks that I like too! I hope your custom comes out as you invisioned it. 
I have a quick question...
I've been wondering about prices lately again ..
This is what I wrote do you agree or too pricey for me...

Basic Re-root is $30.
Basic Restoration/Custom: Includes Re-root & Painting & Symbol/Eyes work: $50
Light Sculpting Includes: Horns & Accessories $60
Heavy Sculpting Includes: Wings, Clothing +: $80
Note: A Restoration That deals with repairs like Holes or Missing parts is Extra $10

So my 4 Speed would of been $60
The 2 customs I made so far were worth $50
Harley Quinn that I'm working on is back to $60

Somehow I think it should be like this..
re-root is $20
Basic Restoration/Custom Starts at $40 that is $20 re-root & $20 full body paint Eye/symbol work
Light Sculpting is $50
Heavy Sculpting  is $60-$80 depending on the difficulty???
Restorations that has holes or missing body parts is Extra $10
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 26, 2022, 05:48:29 AM
I think the cheaper prices are more realistic. I don't think many people would pay $30 for just a rehair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: DracoKat on July 26, 2022, 06:15:35 AM
Sorry if its been asked before... but can you guys recommend a decently priced airbrush tool for someone experimenting/starting out?
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 26, 2022, 10:24:18 AM
I started with a Paache double action. They are a little expensive, but very worth it. I've had mine for around 10 years and it's still like new. My compressor is small, it was meant for make-up application. I think it was around $45. I bought it from an airbrush dealer, but the website seems to be gone (and I don't remember the name of it).
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 27, 2022, 06:34:58 PM
How much is a reroot? $15 or $20 if it's more than 2 colors... hair is $3.99 most of the time it's 1 to 2 colors but sometimes it's 3-5 colors so in that case it would 3.99×5=19.95 out of $20 if I don't have the colors someone commissions.. depending on the situation...
I wish I could show pics I'm at my granny's so I have no way of doing that here. I need a desk top for that. So instead go to @Starflashbabyponies on Instagram and view my 2nd highlights above my posts. It will show what I written about my custom & Restoration Rates...
Could you all Critique it and get back to me Here. Or there let me know what I need to change. Thanks.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 28, 2022, 06:02:00 AM
I think your commission info looks fine on IG. It's hard for other people to price things for you, because only you know how much work goes into something. The general rule is you should charge for supplies and your time. Gauging supply charges can be hard, because you can't charge someone for a whole bottle of paint if you are painting something, but you should charge something. And time yourself as you work and give yourself an hourly wage. But you also have to remain realistic because people won't buy if you price things too high. There needs to be a balance. When you're first starting out, you're prices should be lower and as you practice and build an audience, you can start raising prices.

Personally, if I was doing rehairs, I would probably charge $14 + shipping. And that's another thing to consider - shipping costs. You can fold that into your total, or charge separately. It might seem like a loss at first, but that's where the term "starving artist" comes from :P Sometimes you have to charge less to get your work and name out there.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on July 28, 2022, 02:55:01 PM
Pricing this kind of thing is so tough, because it is basically impossible to get paid a reasonable amount. 

Let's say a rehair takes 2 hours (finding/ordering supplies, possibly opening the pony head and cleaning out the old hair, then rehairing with a reroot tool, gluing, doing the tail). Then let's say your wage is $15/hr. That is already $30 and we haven't even factored in supplies yet (hair, glue, zipties or whatever, maybe a broken needle).

So even though $30 is more than reasonable based on that, it may be true that people won't pay it?  Well, I wouldn't simply because I am capable of doing my own rehairs, but to someone who can't/don't want to maybe they would!  You could also consider charging less for simple one hair color rehairs, vs more for stripes, tinsel, etc. Or charging more or less based on whether they provide their own hair.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on July 28, 2022, 03:42:28 PM
To be honest, since I don't do commissions, I probably price my stuff too low by most standards.  I usually create stuff because I felt like doing it.  So I really don't pay attention to how much time it took me to do but I do factor in complexity of design because (logically) the more complex, the more time it probably took me.  When I'm done I look at it and think, "How much would someone like me be willing to pay for that?" and go from there.  I'm not really creating things to pay bills so my pricing can be a little more flexible.  However, I do factor in how much the supplies cost so I at least make back what I spent on things.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 30, 2022, 03:31:50 PM
Does anyone know how many hanks a styling size G3 takes?

I've never made one, only stripped a couple. I suppose I can figure it out from the hair I saved from them... but if anyone knows, I'd appreciate it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Starflashbaby on July 31, 2022, 02:09:37 PM
Thank you BC, Pokeyonekenobie & SunPony for all the help, I really appreciate it!  :biggrin: I'm sorry I was delayed in answering back I was well grandpa sitting but really taking care of my grandpa since Tuesday. He is alright just helping out the family were it needs help.
Anyways
I'll look at my pricing again and see if it's realistic for me as a newbie. Yeah I'll add in the shipping costs too cause they keep going up great idea.

As for the styling size g3 ponies I'm not sure how many it would take... sorry I couldn't be of any help.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on August 05, 2022, 02:44:34 PM
BC, I did do one Styling size but I used 6 different colors so unfortunately I have no idea how much hair it took total :rofl:

Sorry I couldn't be more help!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: pandabear_chan on August 12, 2022, 04:55:21 AM
Does anyone know how many hanks a styling size G3 takes?

I've never made one, only stripped a couple. I suppose I can figure it out from the hair I saved from them... but if anyone knows, I'd appreciate it.

It depends on the length of hair to be used. But for my MlP x Popples G3s I used 3 hanks of white which was then dyed in several colours.

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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 12, 2022, 05:45:50 AM
Thank you! Only three hanks? I thought it'd be a lot more. That pony is adorable.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on August 13, 2022, 04:35:43 AM
Popples Pony is adorable!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 13, 2022, 09:43:23 AM
Well, I bought two hanks of each color I need just to be sure. I'm making a Raincurl :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on August 16, 2022, 09:18:31 PM
Well, I bought two hanks of each color I need just to be sure. I'm making a Raincurl :)

Ooh! Can't wait to see! :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on August 17, 2022, 12:33:05 PM
Does anyone else feel like this often?
Motivation to work on customs for myself: -1
Motivation to work on customs for a swap partner: 9000!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 17, 2022, 01:06:49 PM
Yes, always. Especially since these three I've been working on just aren't turning out how I want.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on August 18, 2022, 11:17:47 AM
Yes!  Except that I have so many ideas that my brain is twirling in circles!   :lol:

I really need to settle on an idea.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on August 19, 2022, 08:01:34 AM
See Slice Of Life, that's all I need to say
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on August 20, 2022, 10:08:06 PM
Does anyone else feel like this often?
Motivation to work on customs for myself: -1
Motivation to work on customs for a swap partner: 9000!!!

Oh gosh, it's so funny you say that, because I've realized it's almost the reverse for me! I had a custom commission that I was doing as a gift for a friend.... and it's a good thing it was a gift, and not paid, because I started it at the BEGINNING of the pandemic lockdowns (summer 2020) and just finished it LAST MONTH! :faint: That's like two years!! It's the longest any custom pony has ever taken for me! :blush:

I know a lot of it is chalked up to the stress of living through a historic event, but I was able to start and even finish other customs just for myself in that time! :blush: And I realized what the other aspect was this: I'm okay with making a mess of my own customs, or not finishing them 100% (like not sealing them) because it doesn't matter if they're perfect. They're just for myself! But if it's going to my friend, it HAS to be perfect, because they deserve perfection. And nothing stymies an artist like trying to achieve perfection! :yikes:

I struggled a lot with a lot of 'firsts' for this custom (reglittering symbols and adding tinsel, both pretty basic things I've never done!), which undoubtedly slowed me down, some of my slowness was definitely because I didn't want to disappoint my giftee. And she's an angel, of course she'd never be judgmental! But I was stuck in my own head, and I was being judgmental of myself!

That said, I do usually get a lot more motivation when I know someone else is waiting to see my result (swap, gift, contest), than if I am just doing it for fun. But this time, I sort of doubled down on the 'motivation' and it just burnt me out! I would like to never repeat that again! :lmao:

... now I'm trying to finish a whole bunch of ponies on a deadline, let's light a candle and send good vibes on that... :lmao:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 21, 2022, 12:09:38 PM
I know it's tempting to slack on your own customs, but I always try to do my best. You don't want to make habits out of being sloppy.

The longest I waited for a custom pony was a year but it was worth it :)

I am actually having a hard time getting motivated after I got my idea down. Mainly I'm just feeling lazy. I need to condition some clay which means getting my pasta maker out and doing all that and blah.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Primaltimediamond on August 28, 2022, 04:27:56 AM
I've made a Pokemon character custom pony, Piers from Sword and shield! For my next project, I've gone way more ambitious!
I'm planning to make custom ponies out of Emperor Belos and Hunter from The owl house. Not only that I wanna pick up sewing so I can make several outfits they are seen wearing throughout the show and the like. I also plan on surprising a friend of mine with a custom mlp of her oc, she's not big into mlp but I think she'll like it regardless!

Piers was my first custom and I'll admit I really got the taste now!

If anyone wants to buy blank ponies (or mostly blank) I'd recommend Ahorseofeverycolor on Etsy, they sell blank pony bases and even several accessories you can customize! That blank seashell base of theirs def makes me wanna make a custom sea pony haha
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on August 28, 2022, 11:45:56 AM
You should post pics of your custom :)

Yes, there are a few different sites to get blanks, or rehaired blanks from. The others are https://www.clipperssail.com/shop and there is one in the UK.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Primaltimediamond on September 16, 2022, 02:41:09 PM
any reason why there are no custom G2 ponies? I've mostly seen G1 and G3 customs but i don't think i've seen g2 customs
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on September 16, 2022, 03:42:18 PM
any reason why there are no custom G2 ponies? I've mostly seen G1 and G3 customs but i don't think i've seen g2 customs

Probably because they're not as widely available. I grew up with G1 ponies and didn't know G2s existed until after G3 was over.  They were more popular/available in Europe than the US.  The US is such a large area that ponies released here are released in large numbers, which makes them more readily available for customizers to find in bait condition.  When shipping prices weren't so crazy, it was easy for those living outside of the US to get US released ponies.  European ponies were still harder to get in the US due to low production numbers and G2s are part of the collection that is harder to get ahold of because of that.  I also think that most customizers didn't really get started until the G3s came out.  There were some G1s that were customized but the popularity of customizing didn't take off until G3, probably because there were so many bases to pick from and there were very few that were considered rare or hard to find.  Since they were in current production there was a lot less guilt about it than using G1s that were no longer in production.

I have seen some G2 customs, but mostly from European customizers. 
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on September 17, 2022, 05:46:05 AM
Someone just posted a G2 custom Harley Quinn :)

You do see them every once in a while. I have a whole box of baity G2s myself, I just prefer to work with G1 or G3.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on September 22, 2022, 10:52:00 PM
I also suspect it has to do with relative popularity! There aren't that many pony customizers compared to collectors, and that ratio goes way down in tandem with the G2 collectors. A lot of people simply don't collect or like them, so accordingly there's fewer customizers! Plus, I'm sure it's a struggle to sell art pieces in general; selling G2 customs must be exponentially more difficult. Why put the time and effort into something that may not sell?

I went to a pony meetup several years ago, and in the prize pile for the raffle (or maybe bingo?) was a beautiful G2 custom, a Merry Go Round styled G2. I picked her, and exclaimed how grateful I was to get her, when I was one of the last people to win a prize! And most of the collectors there didn't even realize she was a custom. I'm sure that wasn't a wholly representative slice of the pony populace, but it illustrates my point! (And no, I won't keep you waiting for a photo, LOL!)

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This is her! She's gorgeous, and so well made! But no maker's mark, so I have no clue who made her! The host who donated her said she got her in an eBay lot! :(
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Primaltimediamond on September 24, 2022, 02:06:26 AM
I forgot G2 did better in Europe hah, but that is a goregous custom! I saw two very baity G2's like manes entirely gone, missing strass stones, cutie marks rubbed off, tail almost cut entirely, poor girls! I was thinking to pick them up and customize them, well down the line as I already have several projects planned so that will be a while

I def would be both if I had room! collect and customize :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 31, 2022, 01:53:04 AM
What is everyone working on? :)

I've got four customs lined up. One is a gift so I can't talk about it. One is a 3 year old WIP I want to finally finish. The other two are going to be a general spring pony and an Easter pony. I'll be making wool felted and polymer clay minis to go along with them.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: starscout on October 31, 2022, 04:34:58 AM
What is everyone working on? :)
I'm working three G4s and one G3, three of which involve sculpting... one of which involves A LOT of sculpting. :drunk: I've also got a baity G1 Bowtie that I think I might attempt to flock.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on October 31, 2022, 03:27:30 PM
What is everyone working on? :)

I've got four customs lined up. One is a gift so I can't talk about it. One is a 3 year old WIP I want to finally finish. The other two are going to be a general spring pony and an Easter pony. I'll be making wool felted and polymer clay minis to go along with them.

I need to style the hair on my second, larger Sugar Moonlight custom!  I think I need some kind of gel or glue to keep the hair in position, I don't know much about styling other than boil perm curls :/

Other than that I want to prep a bait to make Thunder ("green guard" from G5) and send it and another pony to you (BC) for airbrushing!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 01, 2022, 07:30:09 AM
Great! I need to bust out the airbrush for what I'm working on too.

Depending on what you're trying to do with the hair you can use hairspray or even craft glue to keep it in place. I have one custom whose hair is all twisted up like a tornado and Mod Podge was used. It's still the same like 10 years later :lol:



A question: How would you guys feel about a wing tutorial? I'll be doing feathered wings on one of these customs and could take pics and write one up. They'll be made using polymer clay.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: SunPony on November 01, 2022, 09:36:20 AM
Thanks for the hair tips, BC!

And I would be interested in the wing tutorial.  I don't have any immediate wing-related plans, but I'm a lifelong learner, lol
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 11, 2022, 06:15:57 AM
Thanks for the input! I think I'll put one together when I start on these guys.



Another question! Do you sign your ponies with your real name or your online/art name? I have always done BC or in the beginning it was BCC for BlackCurtains Customs, but I dropped the second C at some point.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on November 11, 2022, 09:47:50 PM
I also suspect it has to do with relative popularity! There aren't that many pony customizers compared to collectors, and that ratio goes way down in tandem with the G2 collectors. A lot of people simply don't collect or like them, so accordingly there's fewer customizers! Plus, I'm sure it's a struggle to sell art pieces in general; selling G2 customs must be exponentially more difficult. Why put the time and effort into something that may not sell?

I went to a pony meetup several years ago, and in the prize pile for the raffle (or maybe bingo?) was a beautiful G2 custom, a Merry Go Round styled G2. I picked her, and exclaimed how grateful I was to get her, when I was one of the last people to win a prize! And most of the collectors there didn't even realize she was a custom. I'm sure that wasn't a wholly representative slice of the pony populace, but it illustrates my point! (And no, I won't keep you waiting for a photo, LOL!)

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This is her! She's gorgeous, and so well made! But no maker's mark, so I have no clue who made her! The host who donated her said she got her in an eBay lot! :(

That's a beautiful custom, it looks factory?!

Another question! Do you sign your ponies with your real name or your online/art name? I have always done BC or in the beginning it was BCC for BlackCurtains Customs, but I dropped the second C at some point.

I sign mine under a hoof with my RL initials, DLP. I have since I started customizing! :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on January 03, 2023, 04:46:53 PM
Just got back home after six weeks away and I'm itching to get back to the ponies!  :frolic:

So what is everyone working on right now?

I looked through my list of planned and in progress customs and I'm trying to figure out where to pick back up!  :rofl:

Of course I got ideas for a few more customs while I was away and one idea that's really sticking in my head is a Mandalorian/Grogu custom set using a baity Big Brother for Mando and a Breezie for Grogu.  It will be a challenge and a half that's for sure but it's exciting to think about.  :D

BC, I'd love to see a wing tutorial!  I've never done feathered wings using clay on a custom though I've thought about it many times.

Also, am I the only one who regularly forgets to sign my customs?   :argh:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Snapdragon on January 03, 2023, 11:36:45 PM
I also suspect it has to do with relative popularity! There aren't that many pony customizers compared to collectors, and that ratio goes way down in tandem with the G2 collectors. A lot of people simply don't collect or like them, so accordingly there's fewer customizers! Plus, I'm sure it's a struggle to sell art pieces in general; selling G2 customs must be exponentially more difficult. Why put the time and effort into something that may not sell?

I went to a pony meetup several years ago, and in the prize pile for the raffle (or maybe bingo?) was a beautiful G2 custom, a Merry Go Round styled G2. I picked her, and exclaimed how grateful I was to get her, when I was one of the last people to win a prize! And most of the collectors there didn't even realize she was a custom. I'm sure that wasn't a wholly representative slice of the pony populace, but it illustrates my point! (And no, I won't keep you waiting for a photo, LOL!)

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This is her! She's gorgeous, and so well made! But no maker's mark, so I have no clue who made her! The host who donated her said she got her in an eBay lot! :(

That's a beautiful custom, it looks factory?!

Another question! Do you sign your ponies with your real name or your online/art name? I have always done BC or in the beginning it was BCC for BlackCurtains Customs, but I dropped the second C at some point.

I sign mine under a hoof with my RL initials, DLP. I have since I started customizing! :)

(Oops I never replied?! Time sure flies! :blush: )

She really does, it's amazing! She's so gorgeous, and it's hard to believe she ended up passed over by as many folks as she did at the meetup! But I'm glad for it, because I think she's just about perfect. :heart: I saw another custom on eBay with a very similar style of carousel sculpting, and I wish I'd bid higher for her - at the time I felt I was being gracious and not starting a bidding war, but now I just think about how cool it would be to own a pair! :yikes:

And to answer BC, for me it depends! For customs I keep I put my real name/date, but for gifts/trades I'll put Snapdragon, and usually my initials and date. I want folks to know who made it, and they might not immediately bring my real name back to my SN! But if my ancestors were to stumble across my customs in a dusty attic, they'd wonder who Snapdragon was! :P
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on January 04, 2023, 05:53:02 AM
I'm still working on 3 of the ponies I mentioned earlier; a now 4 year WIP, and two Spring/Easter ponies. One of them is done, I need to airbrush the second but it's been too humid. I'm also working on an additional two, an armored pony and a cordyceps pony.

I need to order more Apoxie Sculpt. Mine is old and funky from the heat.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on January 04, 2023, 06:51:42 AM
I've been on a hiatus for some time now. The forest druid custom for my friend is still sitting on my desk but that's the only WIP I have. I will try to find some time and motivation to start again! It would be great to do a custom swap sometime this year.

Quote from: BlackCurtains
Another question! Do you sign your ponies with your real name or your online/art name? I have always done BC or in the beginning it was BCC for BlackCurtains Customs, but I dropped the second C at some point.

I use my real initials + year, the same signature that I use to sign all my artwork. I know it's not very helpful if my customs pass hands at some point, but...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on March 27, 2023, 01:18:16 PM
I've been on a hiatus for some time now. The forest druid custom for my friend is still sitting on my desk but that's the only WIP I have. I will try to find some time and motivation to start again! It would be great to do a custom swap sometime this year.

Working on the DTIYS challenge pony yesterday was the push I needed and I was finally able to finish the paintwork on this one as well! :frolic: I'd already signed the hoof with 2022 so had to add the current year. XD In truth the pony has been a WIP since 2020 or 2021.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: starscout on April 13, 2023, 11:46:37 AM
Had my first accident with a custom last night. Was trying to cut the neck peg out when my hand slipped and I gashed my hand instead. :sleepy:  If anyone has any advice on how to safely get out neck pegs, it would be much appreciated.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 13, 2023, 12:02:46 PM
What gen? I don't know about gen 4 or 5, they have their own weird thing going on.

Gen 1, 2 and 3 have similar neck plugs. It's a good idea to boil them. Just toss 'em in some boiling water, wait about 30 seconds, use tongs or something to pick them up, wrap a towel around the body and try to rip the head off. The heat will loosen the glue. I also use an exacto knife along the neck seam if it still won't come off. I do a little section then put the pony back in the boil, then do another section, etc. Eventually, usually, they come off.

I think TRTL did a thread on prepping G5. I'll see if I can find it.

Well, I couldn't find that exact thread Found it! https://mlparena.com/index.php?topic=401911.msg1859134#msg1859134

This one might help a little too https://mlparena.com/index.php?topic=401879.msg1858745#msg1858745
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: starscout on April 14, 2023, 02:29:28 AM
The one I was prepping was one of the G4 retro-styled ponies. I've never had much trouble with customizing G1 and G3, but the later G4 toys have consistently been a pain to work with. I recently had a similar issue with a Celestia I was customizing, and with her, I gave up on digging her neck peg out and just opted to glue her tail in.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on April 14, 2023, 07:02:18 AM
Ah, maybe try looking up some videos on YouTube? I didn't find a lot about prepping G4 on the forum.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on April 14, 2023, 11:05:43 AM
G4s can be a pain to prep! I usually just cut with an x-acto knife - very carefully! - around the neck. But it takes a lot of patience and you need to go very slowly. No matter how careful I am, I usually manage to slice into the neck at some point... I always hope it won't be too noticeable. I wonder if there's an easier way to do it without breaking the peg. I like my customs to have turning heads if possible. :)

Oh, an it really needs to be an x-acto or surgical kind of blade, not a box cutter blade as that would be too wide.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: starscout on April 16, 2023, 03:47:18 PM
I appreciate it, BC. And thanks, Griffin. I was actually using a box cutter on the pony when I sliced my hand. Looks like I'll just have to pick up an x-acto knife once I can work on customs again.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on April 16, 2023, 04:16:45 PM
Well folks, the style challenge showed me that certain Phony Baby Ponies pass as Ponies so I have several on the go. Another hairing day coming soon!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on May 01, 2023, 11:44:25 AM
I grabbed some fakies I've been eyeing on my shelf for a while for customising. They're (were!) super ugly and I want to see if I can make them prettier. I need some stress-free projects to counterbalance work stress! I've picked the colours but haven't decided on themes yet. This time I didn't bother drawing up any plans. I just want to play around :P

My friend's pony is at this annoying stage of being almost complete. I'm dying to show the custom off but can't bring myself to do the final sculpting session or two. This is a very common thing with any projects I work on... I hit a slump towards the end. I think I need a deadline to motivate me to finish  :lol:

Aaand it's time to start planning the Birthday swap custom!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on May 01, 2023, 12:13:09 PM
My Customising is slowing down in favour of crochet. I have another thing to show off!!! And it turned out good enough I'm making more like it. On the last one then I have to trim them. Also the ones I've still to do need: paint (I don't want yet another pinky-purple one & that's the most common colour, so paint is essential), horns (yep, I want two to be unicorns so here goes me with Apoxie again), & fading (I dyed a couple: one yellow & one orange & both turned out a little dark so if I can fade them down then sorted, but that takes its sweet time, especially here where sun is not a big thing).
And for the other projects well, they're on hold too...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 01, 2023, 12:46:19 PM
I hope I'm not in over my head ^^; I have an overdue commission, a commission as a prize, the birthday custom swap and I was commissioned today for two detailed sculpted ponies. I guess I will be doing a lot of working on customs in the coming months!
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on May 06, 2023, 10:06:29 AM
Had a go at sculpting something rather special. Will need to dry overnight & phone will need charged, but I'm pretty proud so far!!! The sculpt in question is sitting on some improv props for now...

Post Merge: May 06, 2023, 10:16:02 PM

Guess who...
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Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Pokeyonekenobie on May 07, 2023, 09:35:20 AM
Has anyone tried using leather/shoe paints on a pony or another plastic/vinyl project?  I was looking at Kicks brand because it is a flexible paint, which I want for my G1 baits because that plastic is less rigid than the G3/G4 baits.

Plaid FX brand (found with the Cosplay materials) works really well on plastic/vinyl (it's what I used for the Style Challenge) but Hobby Lobby carries limited colors and Michaels has stopped carrying it at all (which I found out after driving an hour to the nearest one) so I need to find something a little more readily available.  Amazon is outrageously priced for the FX colors I want (I am not paying $8 a bottle) but Hobby Lobby carries Kicks (also made by Plaid), which makes it accessible for me.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 07, 2023, 09:57:52 AM
It's acrylic paint so I don't see why it shouldn't. It says it's good to use on vinyl. I'd go for it. I personally wouldn't shop at Hobby Lobby, but that's me. Plaid also sells them online here - https://plaidonline.com/products/brand/kicksstudio
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heart Of Midnight on May 07, 2023, 05:26:20 PM
Had a go at sculpting something rather special. Will need to dry overnight & phone will need charged, but I'm pretty proud so far!!! The sculpt in question is sitting on some improv props for now...

Post Merge: May 06, 2023, 10:16:02 PM

Guess who...
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Wow! A really cool dragon sculpture! I guess he's Spike?  :happy:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on May 08, 2023, 01:11:09 AM
G3 Spike, to be exact. I based it off of art from MLP annuals & books. He's getting painted, but I need purple for him
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 08, 2023, 04:42:10 AM
Oh! :whoa: I totally missed that post! He looks amazing!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on May 30, 2023, 12:22:56 PM
Ugh, guys I'm dying :drunk: I have three commissions to do and two gifts. One commission and one gift are almost done. One needs approval from the buyer and if it's okay, just has hair and eyes left. One needs hair to be dip dyed, rooted and eyes. I think I'll reroot first and then dye it, it's just the ends.

The rest? Haven't gotten started on. Two of them are from the same person (who wants four more after these), and they are complicated sculpting. I gave them a deadline of July and it'll be June soon!

My motivation is tanked. I'm so stressed out and tired constantly. I haven't been able to sleep.

I think I need to make something for myself, or do something fun. Maybe that will spark my interest but I need to not feel guilty about it.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on June 01, 2023, 11:30:43 AM
BC, ouch!  Don't overextend yourself!  I bet doing something for yourself would really help kickstart your creativity again.  I know for me I was kind of dragging my heels on the projects that I "needed" to do and then once I decided to make a set of Star Wars ponies for me I was interested in doing the other ones again too.

Good luck!   :bigups:

On my worktable at the moment I have:
Alternate rehair March birthflower - just needs eyes glazed and hair styled
My "do this in your own style" custom pony - hair rooted, symbol and eyes half-painted  :yikes:
Baits for my bday swap pony, a contest pony, Harley Quinn, the Mandalorian, Grogu, Grand Admiral Thrawn and Ahsoka Tano
Three customs in progress of OCs from an online pony game - one about 20% sculpted, one with sculpting done at the sanding stage, and one that didn't have sculpting that has painted details in progress

 :sweat:

And I'm sure I'm forgetting something...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on June 20, 2023, 09:11:21 PM
Indy's Legacy is almost done! I'm so happy to have actually made pony clothes, rather than sculpting them, but I do not recommend sewing leather, it is so difficult! D: I still have to finish his mane and touch up his symbols/jacket, but he is almost complete and I am very happy with this Big Brother pony!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on June 22, 2023, 12:49:06 AM
Mine is part Customs, part art & craft. Plastic Ponies have to wait a bit because I have to complete this one who, aside from stuffing, is all yarn, & aside from embroidery, is all crochet. I wrote the pattern myself & this Pony will stand up!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heart Of Midnight on July 29, 2023, 06:50:05 PM
:think: I would now have approximately two years to make a pony for my mother as a 70th birthday present. Maybe I should start planning it already. She has a wish for a blue pony. She loves violets and cats. Perhaps the symbols could relate to them. I think I'll choose a unicorn.. If I ever happen to find one in poor condition here in my country.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 30, 2023, 03:28:13 AM
That sounds like a lovely project :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heart Of Midnight on July 30, 2023, 03:36:42 PM
^ Thank you! ^.^ I wish I could get this done in time. I have also had another project for several years now, but it has stalled at the planning stage. :blush: I already have a bait for it, but I just haven't been able to start doing it.

I've been thinking that this mother's gift pony could be in Mimic pose or Powder Pose.. Or Glory Pose. I guess they are the most proud looking of all? :wonder: My mother is a Leo in her horoscope, so such a lofty position on the pony could be good. (I've already made her a zodiac pony for her 60th birthday and used Bubblefish Pose on it.) :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on July 30, 2023, 06:49:27 PM
I love the powder pose. Glory is good too. I hope you find one.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Heart Of Midnight on July 31, 2023, 01:07:31 PM
I love the powder pose. Glory is good too. I hope you find one.

I have to go more diligently to the flea markets myself and tell my mother to visit them more often as well. :lol:
Today she found me a G3 Starbeam which is not in very good shape, but it doesn't fit this custom and I don't think I have it in my collection, so it goes in my collection.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on August 19, 2023, 01:45:56 PM
I need to start planning my Halloween swap custom. Looking forward to the swap again, Halloween swaps have always been some of my favourite ones! I guess I like to embrace my dark side every now and then :P

Another pony is also in the making. There will be a custom contest at a Finnish pony con in about a month's time. I've just submitted my sign-up form and I think I've settled on a design. I'm excited!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 15, 2023, 11:04:19 AM
I'm currently rehairing a Halloween Themed Bubbles! :) She will be orange gradient with blue sparkly eyes, purple eyeshadow, a cauldron with multicolored bubbles for her cutie mark. Her mane/tail is a blend of purple, green and orange. :)

Bumblebee is coming along nicely too--my Instagram-bambiraptor_feinbergi-has the latest WIP pics! It's taking me a while to get his body painted, but I want to stay true to the Transformer look as much as possible. His scooter needs some finishing touches too! :)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on October 15, 2023, 07:33:25 PM
Sounds fun!!!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 16, 2023, 06:48:00 AM
Ooh, that Bubbles sounds gorgeous. Just my type of pony :D

I am still working on my Halloween swap pony. Plus I have two commissions to finish and two gifts to make. I'll be honest, I'm getting sick of working on ponies :( I want to make miniatures or do some needle felting, but if I try to do those I feel guilty about not working on ponies :(
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 25, 2023, 06:09:20 PM
Thanks, ponybookworm!

And BC, it's okay to work on other things hobby wise if you're not in the mood to make ponies. I'm sure folks that commissioned you and those you're gifting will understand. <3 I draw and write when I'm not up for painting/rehairing ponies, fwiw.

Here's a pic of what my witchy pony looks like so far (her mane needs more hair!)
https://www.instagram.com/p/CyxWC_fObJR/?img_index=3 (https://www.instagram.com/p/CyxWC_fObJR/?img_index=3)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on October 26, 2023, 04:45:45 AM
Ooh, awesome! She looks great! And is that the Bubbles on the right? Is she flocked? She looks amazing!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on October 26, 2023, 10:16:42 AM
The Bubbles redo for Halloween is on the right! Thank you! No, she isn't flocked--she has a gradient and glitter! :)

I'm hoping to have the energy/time to finish her for Halloween!

The white pony is the Happy Ghost pony from Lachlana Vintage on Instagram! https://www.instagram.com/p/Ckv_B9Pv-O7/?img_index=1 (https://www.instagram.com/p/Ckv_B9Pv-O7/?img_index=1)
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: cowboyopossum on October 28, 2023, 10:44:23 PM
decided to prep a bait windy for a starlight glimmer g1 custom! sadly the glue was really on the head good, so i tore the neck plug while cutting it out. its okay though, superglue fixed that issue. i felt bad baiting a windy, but she was missing her tail and her eyes were smudged. plus i already have her NM in my collection so i thought it would be good to use as a base. hopefully i can get some new paint soon, i really hate mixing colors. super excited to start working on her!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on October 29, 2023, 10:45:07 AM
They look great, ChocolateStarfire! I'm looking forward to finished pics :)

Cowboyopossum, sounds neat! Keep us posted!

My Halloween swap custom was shipped earlier this week and my desk is clear once more. I don't have any great plans for the rest of the year, custom-wise. I'm probably going to take it easy and gather some inspiration for next year. I do have two WIP fakies lying around, if I have the energy I could finish those. And I have one doll custom that's also WIP since forever, she needs hair and some clothes. Rehairing is not my favourite part, can you tell. :lol:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Artemesia's Garden on November 24, 2023, 10:29:07 PM
Hello all, just wondering what the current feeling is about using G1s with stickiness or age spots for custom projects? I have a few that are fairly bad and I'm not sure whether to advertise them or lay them to rest. I won't have time to work with them now. Sometimes if cleaned and dried etc. I have noticed that ponies like this can remain stable for some time but I couldn't guarantee it. If they are going to start leaking or getting worse again I'm not sure it would be worth the time and effort for a customiser.
Title: Re: Customizers\' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on November 24, 2023, 11:45:32 PM
Hmm, it depends on *how* sticky or gnarly the base pony is. If it's basically it's own ecosystem, I would say no. Otherwise, I think it'd be fair game. :) That's my .02.

Post Merge: November 24, 2023, 11:47:09 PM

They look great, ChocolateStarfire! I'm looking forward to finished pics :)

Thanks! :D
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on November 25, 2023, 06:11:37 AM
I'd say no to both. Stickiness will ruin the paint and age spots do come through paint after a while.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Moonbreeze on November 28, 2023, 08:47:58 AM
I'm slowly getting stuff to make a new set of customs!
Going to make these prototypes into regular G2-sized customs.

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I just got the fur fabric in! Now I only need to figure out the hair colours (especially that orange).
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on December 05, 2023, 05:10:26 AM
What a fun project! Good luck, can't wait to see them :)

Does anyone have any good armature tutorials? Armature has always been my least favorite thing about sculpting. I'm trying to not be so negative about it because it's a crucial step, but I don't enjoy it at all. I have a lot of trouble wrapping wire to make a coherent thing.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on December 06, 2023, 10:56:54 AM
Crocheting something special (it features new work)...
 :frolic: :frolic: :frolic: :art: :art: :art: :happy: :happy: :happy: :lovey: :lovey: :lovey: :hope: :hope: :hope:
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Ponybookworm on February 05, 2024, 02:01:15 AM
And I'm finally doing Custom Ponies again!!! They've been waiting for ages & I had some part-finished & some prepped ready to start & one just needing a mane. Well a certain "had to do" project arrived, so she got new hair, & so did new mane Pony, while I started the paintwork on another...
I put this off for too long...
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: ChocolateStarfire on February 05, 2024, 10:41:56 AM
:frolic: Congrats ponybookworm! :) I've been making/planning lots of customs this year too!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: BlackCurtains on February 05, 2024, 04:35:19 PM
Exciting news, PBW!

I'm glad you have more planned, ChocolateStarfire!

As for me, I've made this month my deadline to get two customs done. One is a commission and one is from the Halloween swap.
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: Griffin on February 06, 2024, 02:47:57 AM
Nice job, everyone! I haven't touched customs since the Halloween swap. In fact I've done very little crafting in January, I've been more into cooking and physical exercise (I'm trying to improve my flexibility :D ). I hope the style challenge will help me get into customising again!
Title: Re: Customizers' chit-chat thread
Post by: kaelynn on February 06, 2024, 01:22:42 PM
I’ve been getting the customizing itch again too. December and January was kind of taken over by Christmas gifts and then D&D terrain but the ponies are calling…especially the mountain of WIPs!   :lol:
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