Compendium Films

Expert Model Craft DVD Painting & Finishing Military Figures

by  Rob Henden

Reviewed By  Robert Morales, IPMS# 31535

MSRP: $24.95 ISBN: 978-1905573-69-1 Review copy courtesy of Casemate Publishing (www.casematepublishing.com) Airbrushing figures?! Until I saw this video, I was not sure about that idea. I have heard of certain expert artists using expensive turbine brushes, especially on flesh tones. After viewing this video, I am now willing to give it a shot on my next large scale figure. Figure painters and fans will recognize the works of Rob Henden. He has won many awards for his work at the World-renown Euromilitaire, and has also featured in Military Modeling magazine. He also does some remarkable armor modeling, and upgrades 1/6th scale action figures and equipment to a high standard. The primary example Henden uses is a 1/9th scale Warriors SS Falschirmjager. This is a good example as it allows for painting of monotone items such as the trousers as well as the multi-colored camouflage jump smock. After basic construction and preparation tips, Henden discusses paint choices, brush choices which are necessary for painting details, using old brushes for dry brushing, and his choice of airbrushes. His favorite is the Iwata Eclipse SBS, as it can be used for both broad coverage as well as fine details. Henden's technique shows him airbrushing at a fairly high 25 psi. The video does a great job of illustrating his particular techniques. The video is well produced, with good illumination, and the sound quality is clear. Henden takes care to explain his techniques step-by-step. It's as though you are right next to him at his workbench (without the paint fumes…). When it comes to camouflage application, he demonstrates his techniques which include shading of the base color before applying the other colors. Henden also discusses sources such as camouflage patterns and equipment, to include books and actual articles. His combination of free hand and light masking produces outstanding results. He recommends shading all camouflage colors using a neutral, in this case burnt sienna. When it comes to flesh tones, Henden does rely on his prized Iwata Micron B. He clearly demonstrates this technique, but without that high quality type airbrush, it may be very difficult for most miniaturists. Nevertheless, it is very interesting to see how he does this. The DVD also includes extras such as a profile of Ron Henden, an overview of his work, a list of products used in the video and references and sources. Overall, this is a very informative reference that any miniaturist will enjoy and learn from. Thank you to Compendium Films, Tara Lichterman and Casemate Publishing for my review copy.

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