R.K. Design Works

TF:PRIME Voyager Optimus Prime

2012-01-17T14:38:00.005+08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! Yes...I know it's kinda late, but we're still in January right?

Okay...

Update!

Well, this is practically the first thing I finished. Now don't get me wrong, it's not as simple as it looks. You see this figure, didn't have much screw on it. But it had a bunch of bolted in parts. Yes. And then it came down to masking it then. And that was a 'bitch' to do. Yeah, I'm using a profound word to explain how hateful it was to do it. LOL.

Now here is the image before the repaint. My client requested to repaint only the gray ugly parts, not a full repaint.

Simple right. Wrong. It was hours of masking and figuring out how and where the heck should I mask. One of the most tedious things that I hate doing. But the outcome was pretty good. Here it is...(excuse the backgrounds. I was a bit lazy...heheheh)

And that's all for now peeps! One thing that you'd have to look out is the rubber smokestacks and blade. As you can see, there doesn't seem to be any problem...until you bend it.

Till next time~

1/60 Low Visibility VF-1S (Stealth Striker)

2011-12-30T10:51:00.006+08:00

Update!

As we come to an end for 2011, I'm trying to post up as many works that I've done and haven't posted yet.

So what is it this time? Another Macross fighter. (I reaaaally love the fighters...they are like super smokin' hawt...) Well, actually I have a few valkyrie fighters that I am working on...finishing them requires finesse and I am so happy that my friend W.Hizal has been patient. (Thanks bro!).

Okay, the one I worked on is the Low Visibility version for the VF-1S. The original version didn't really have much 'life' in it and was a bit toyish. So after discussion, my friend seems to be a fan of the Katoki style camo. And that was what I worked with.

Now the undercoat for it was a tad lighter gray then the overall, since I'm doing the camo on it. And I wanted this guy to be more darker since it has been dubbed the Stealth Striker. Once the masking is done, and painted the overall color...I worked on the Strike packs, rather using the original gray plastic...I painted it black. It's stealth...you gotta have black in it right?

What happened was the images that I took got corrupted. But thankfully my friend was pretty good at capturing the pics for the valks...they were even better than mine. So here it is in all it's glory...

1/60 VF-1S Stealth Striker Valkyrie
(photos courtesy of Wan Hizal - owner)

With Strike Packs

Gerwalk Mode

Battroid Mode

(in my overzealous to pass it to Hizal, I forgot to remove some of the masking areas...lol)

Alright, so that's about it friends...I'll see if I can post another of my works before the new year. If not, see you all next year!

HAPPY NEW YEAR FROM RK DESIGN STUDIOS!

PS: Don't forget to give us a 'LIKE' at my...

RK Design Studios Facebook Page

Cheers!

MG GP03S - RKD Styling

2011-12-25T23:14:00.006+08:00

Update!

Alright, looks like I'm back into Gunpla, since my last Gunpla post was way back in March this year...lol.

So who is it to mark me coming back after some time? The GP03. Funny that I've had this kit like 3 times, and all of them I sold before getting a chance to do one for myself. And here, another GP03...but it belongs to my best friend who commissioned me to work on it. He's a pretty busy man, so what are friends for right?

Okay, so I kinda opt for a different approach for this guy. Did some different paint styles to him since I wanted to make it different from the normal out of box design. The inner parts or joints are painted with gunmetal silver of my own mixture. And the white areas are given a slight pre-shade, so it won't have that sparkly white look...and decals, well I had some extra Ka. stickers that was lying around...so why not? Heh.

MG GP03S

Alright...enough for now. Next up will be the MG S-Gundam, but with resin conversions. Muahahahahaha...

Peace out and MERRY CHRISTMAS!

DMK01 Bumblebee

2011-12-13T14:37:00.005+08:00

Update!

Heh...a Transformer. Yep. It's been awhile eh? Well, actually this guys is a model kit actually. The term 'DMK' stands for 'Dual Model Kit'. Why? Beats me. Anyhoo, this kit is actually amazing with all the fantastic details and what not. Articulation is okay in my book. But a word of advice, this is definitely a model kit. It is not a toy. Some of the joints are a bit loose and quite fragile, and the kit being in scale with the other DMK01 Optimus Prime...yeah, he's smaller.

But with a little paint and glue (it's a non-transformable figure, which some 'fans' has a very long and really stupid discussion on...'if it's not transformable how can they be called transformers?') the kit is actually worthwhile and worth getting. The price is a bit steep, but I do enjoy the occasional challenge (I love Armored Core kits...and those are challenges)...

It seems Takara Tomy is venturing into the model kit realm and wants to grab a piece of the pie and also appeal to modellers with their Transformers line. But they do need to work on some of the quality especially the plastic and fittings. Regardless of all the problems, it's a good try and I would love to see more Transformer movie kits being done...since, that's the only thing that looks as close to the original look...heh.

Here's the DMK02 Bumblebee.

With weapon, closed fist and battle mask on.

I have the 'Work In Progress' shots and explanations on my Facebook Fanpage. So do drop by here (and don't forget to give a 'Like' ya!):

'DMK02 BUMBLEBEE WORK IN PROGRESS PHOTOS AND DESCRIPTIONS'

Since working on this guy, I've been fired up to work on my own DMK01 Optimus and hopefully can get it done soon.

Till next time!

1/35 M26 Pershing

2011-12-05T19:00:00.005+08:00

Updated!

Another military kit. One of my last military builds for 2011 I guess. The kit was finished way back in July and just realised that I haven't posted this guy yet here. LOL.

Okay, what is it? It's an M26 Pershing that I really had fun building. Really. Honest. Why? I dunno, just had some laughs doing it. Maybe when I first painted the figures, they looked like Batman's Joker...whoever said painting miniature figures was easy, I'd like to see them do it.

Basically, the technique applied was the same as one of my previous builds. But I applied more on the silver to create the wear and tear rather the application of light brown and some black. It was a simple build (and I think that was the reason I had fun...mueheheheh).

1/35 M26 Pershing

Yep. Another one. And also the last for 2011. Not the last post, just the last military build. Next year is another story. Can we all say...diorama? Lol.

Hasbro Star Wars Snowspeeder (Finished)

2011-11-14T12:16:00.006+08:00

Update!

Alright, I was supposed to do a work in progress posting for this guy...but due to my very busy schedule of late...I'm just closing it up.

The Snowspeeder has already been sent to my client and good friend, Azwanijaya. The look on his face when he received it was priceless. It's those kind of things that make what I do worth it.

Okay, enough of the talk...here's the Snowspeeders...(that's plural my friends...)

Luke's Snowspeeder:

Rebel Alliance Snowspeeder:

The Snowspeeders:

Comparison with a standard out of the box snowspeeder:

Now, don't worry...the many stages in the painting of this fantastic machine is recorded. Yep, each picture of the process was taken and uploaded in RK Design's Facebook page. If you would like to see more on the 'work in progress' go to our page and have look. Here's the link:

Work In Progress Part 2 - Snowspeeder

Don't forget to give a 'Like' to the page ya!

TOYSCAPE 2011

2011-10-24T12:37:00.004+08:00

Hey everybody!

Nothing much to post lately due to unforeseen circumstances and problems, but I would like to share with all of you something.

This is an event where I will be this coming weekend. Organised by a club from the Faculty of Art and Design, Universiti Selangor in Shah Alam. If you all are free to drop by and have a look at an extensive array of toys and model kits (mainly Gundams) do come over!

(click on the poster for a bigger better view)

Here are the details of the event:

Saturday 29th October 2011

11.00 am - Launch (tentatively if Dean is available)
12.00 pm - Animation Show.
12.30 pm - Fun Forum.
1.30 pm - Toy Design Talk (Mr. Steven from Toy Minister) - tentative
2.30 pm - Animation show.
3.00 pm - Performance.
4.30 pm - Animation Show.
5.00 pm - Lucky Draw.
6.00 pm - Close.

Sunday 30th October 2011

10.00 am - Open to Public
10.30 am - Gunpla building demo by pro modellers
11.30 am - Performance
12.00 pm - Videogame Competition
1.30 pm - Toy Design Talk (Mr. Steven from Toy Minister) - tentative
2.30 pm - Fun Forum
3.30 pm - Performance
4.30 pm - Prize Giving and Lucky Draw
5.00 pm - Closing.

Sponsors:
Firecracker Studio Sdn Bhd

Exhibitors:
WeMaC (G.I. Joe Fanclub)
SembangToys
RedToys
Macross Fans Malaysia
Malaysian Star Wars Fanclub
Malaysian Interest Lego Fanclub

Spread the word and hopefully you all can join in the fun and make it an eventful event.

Hot Toys Ironman Mark 3: Prototype

2011-10-07T17:41:00.006+08:00

Update!

Okay here's something that took me a bit to finish. Took a break from my commissioned works to do something a bit different. Yep. And it's been awhile since I actually took a job which is a figure. And not just any figure, a Hot Toys figure.

Now, most Hot Toys collectors know that the Ironman Mark 3 has some flaws in terms of the abdominal area. The colors seem to slowly fade and leaving it a little pinkish...yep.

So I got in my hands one of the earliest Ironman incarnation from the fabulous 1/6 figure makers, Hot Toys. Seeing a sample project that they did (a limited edition figure) called the secret project, I decided to color this Mark 3 following the scheme.

I opt for a more brighter gray than the Hot Toys version. Here is the fella before:

And here is the after the repaint:

I've uploaded 'work in progress' pictures in the RK Design Studios Facebook page, you can check it out at:

'HT Iroman Mark 3 W.I.P'

When you're there, don't forget to click a 'Like' to be able to see updates and other goodies from RK Design Studios.

Till next time! Cheers!

Hasbro Star Wars Snowspeeder (WIP) Part 01

2011-09-29T16:52:00.007+08:00

WORK IN PROGRESS!

Yep. You all read it right. Starting from now, I'll be putting up some 'Work In Progress' postings to be my tutorials on how to do repaints. Actually this was due to so many people requesting I do some WIP tutorials so that they can learn too. And finally I'm doing it. Yeah. Okay, I was given a project commissioned by a friend of mine awhile back. It's a Star Wars Snowspeeder. One of my favourite ships and I think what better way to start of this series of WIP postings.

Shall we begin now?

Now before anything, make sure you mask the areas that you want not touched by the paints. Masking is one of those tedious tasks that isn't enjoyable, but if done well...will save you a lot of grief later...

Once you're happy with the areas that you wanted to mask, now apply the primer. Make sure that the primer is evenly spread and before painting, always check for dust particles. Wipe the surface of the area clean. After applying primer, spray the base paint. Here I'm using a mixture of my own gray.

Let it dry or cure. At least for a few hours or so, but for better paint application...give it a day! Yes, I'm talking about 24hours! LOL. Leaving it that long you will be sure that the primer and the base coat is fully cured.

After it has cured, comes the pre-shading. Now this technique is more or less on what you feel. Not sure how to explain this, but it's something that you acquire after doing it many times. But what I can tell you, doing pre-shades should be in the nook and crannies. And also you have to take into consideration on how the vehicle moves, how the air or dirt flows on it. Heh, and here you thought that repainting was easy eh?

As you can see, I separated the cannons and engine cover. Apply the same as the main body, inclusive of the pre-shades.

The small guns at the back of the speeder was separated and painted differently. After priming, I applied flat black and later did some drybrushing on it to give it that metal weathered look. What's dry brushing? I'll go to it later in another WIP posting. heh.

That's the end of part 1 for the today's WIP posting. Don't worry, I'll definitely do the next one soon.

Hopefully this could motivate or give you guys some ideas on how to paint your figures or vehicles. Now remember one thing, this is a technique that I'm using and modified it along the way. If you can think of some other simpler way, then just do it. Trial and error is a part of being good at what you do.

Till next WIP! Cheers!

1/48 P47D Thunderbolt 'Bubbletop'

2011-09-26T15:02:00.006+08:00

Update!

Yep. A month plus of no updating. Still alive. I think. A lot of work done, but updating has been an issue with me lately. Yeah. I'm just too darn lazy, until I re-read an email I received from a 'friend and fan'...it opened my eyes. If I want people to follow what I do, updating is something that is important.

So here it is.

Okay, this kit has been down way back in July...heh...

Another fantastic kit from Tamiya (and almost got me into airplane kit building), with the small little details...it was awesome.

Now, my client wanted me to follow it close to the original colors and he gave me some suggestions. I chose one and started working on it. The engine cover area is purely decals. Yes. If I did that, that would have been the last work of mine that you'll see...hahahahaha...

So here is the guy...

1/48 P47D Thunderbolt 'Bubbletop'

Okie dokie. That's all for now. I need to dig out more of the work I've done these past few months.

Cheers!

PLEASE BE AWARE!

2011-07-28T13:25:00.002+08:00

Hey all,

A few days ago I was startled to hear of some quite disturbing news. Upon investigation, I think it is safe for me to inform this matter to my readers and also clients.

RK Designs is NOT ASSOCIATED to any local toy shop in doing customisation/repaints.

If there are shops who take in commissioned works and stating it as on my behalf, please contact me at ryukaze@gmail.com.

Up until now, RK Designs does DIRECT DEALINGS with clients who are interested to do customisation/repaints. I have not associated myself with any toy shops or given any kind of agreement that they (the toy shops) I do commissioned works under their name.

Furthermore, if you come across any customs for sale that is said to have been done by me...please search this blog on it's appearance, and if it is not here...send me an email and attach photos for confirmation by me.

Thank you all for taking the time to read this post and I greatly appreciate the support given to RK Designs in all these years.

Here's to hoping to give you all more custom works and products!

Cheers!

1/35 Tamiya 88mm Gunflak

2011-07-26T12:15:00.005+08:00

Update!

Military Build.

What is it? An 88mm Gunflak kit. What made it memorable? The awesome details and figures! (Yes, I really had to learn how to paint 1/35 figures a.s.a.p!)

It was a pretty tricky kit which you need to combine a wheel setting with the gunflak. Held by a screw it looked quite impressive. Gave it some details, but more or less the figure painting was the most fun I had.

Sorry for the setting. Heh. I'm really quite the lazy bum when it comes to do the settings. Always thought that why bother with the backgrounds when the main star is the work...Right? Lol.

So till next time!

And don't forget to drop a 'Like' on my Facebook page ya!

RK Designs Facebook Page

Your 'Like' is important for getting updates, since RK Designs is going to develop our own line of after market parts and toys...stay tuned!

1/48 Mitsubishi Zero Fighter and Focke Wolfe Fw190

2011-07-22T16:05:00.005+08:00

Update!

Another military build, but this time its...AIRPLANES!!! YAY!...

Okay, after so long of wanting to try my hand at building and painting fighter planes...I got my chance. My usual client has got himself into the world of WWII airplane collecting. And the lucky guy who gets to build for him is...ME!

So, how was it? Pretty interesting since it's different from tanks. You see, on airplanes we have to do lots of clean ups and not to mention the details are really amazing. But unlike tanks, painting planes are a bit different. How different? Have a look...

1/48 Tamiya Mitsubishi Zero Fighter

1/48 Tamiya Focke Wolfe Fw190

Overall it was fun. Yep. The challenge was more on the figure/pilots. I do hope to get more planes to build since I'd like to try out some other techniques that I've learned from model plane magazines (yes...I've begun to buy them now instead of Gundam magazines...lol).

So till my next post!

Cheers!

Trumpeter 1/35 Russia SAM-6 Antiaircraft Tank

2011-07-13T17:07:00.007+08:00

Update!

Here's another military build that I did a few months ago.

This is another Trumpeter kit (which I think challenges the heck outta me) of Russia's SAM-6 Antiaircraft Launcher/Tank.

Pretty much applied the usual styles since my client wanted me to follow the pictures on the box. But I added a little bit more of detailing since I thought that the original colors looked too plain. The missiles with their small details in attaching it to the launch pad was pretty nifty.

The most challenging part was building the tank treads. Yes! It had to be built INDIVIDUALLY!! God knows how trying it was, since I'm used to treads that are already made (and its rubber too!). But it was an experience and like always, I treasure them...

Alright, another military kit notched in my resume...heh...

By the way, don't forget to drop by RK Design Studios page on Facebook and do give me a 'Like' to show support in what I do. It's not much, but a simple 'click' on the 'Like' button always manages to keep me wanting to better myself...

RK Design's Facebook Page! <--- Thanks in advance!!

Oodelaly!

XOvergen Grand Patriot

2011-07-11T16:20:00.007+08:00

Update!

Okay, it's quite rare that I would be asked to repaint a third party Transformer figure. Furthermore this time it's from the company XOvergen.

It was said that this version of Optimus Prime is the version from the Transformers vs G.I.Joe comic series. They can't use the original name due to licensing reasons and it looks pretty good. But being the first try from this company, there were some problems and flaws to the figure. I won't mention much on it, since I'm here to REPAINT! LOL.

Alright, my client wanted me to use my military modelling style on this guy. So, I opt to use a darker shade of green. As you can see...the original has...erm...a very bright look to it.

Ahem...not really good to go into battle with this colors aye?

As usual, I'd do some pre-shading to get the right tone to it. Since this guy has a lot of edges, it would look really awesome. Now, once I've applied the pre-shades, I added some really dark green (mixture of 40% green and 60% black) to do the outer shadings to it...then used some silver for the dry brush on the body.

Now, the torso and upper legs I originally used silver. But then again it was kinda funny since the main bulk had a lot of shadings and weathering...so using a technique I recently learned from a good friend of mine, it now looks way better.

Okay, no more talk. Let's see 'em photos!

Overall it was a pretty fun project to do, so I wouldn't mind doing another (hint...).

Now, if there was someone who would want me to do a Shattered Glass version of Fansproject's Protector...eh...wait...oh...they did it already...LOL...

Cheerios!

ROTF Leader Class Optimus Prime

2011-07-09T00:51:00.005+08:00

Update!

Yes. Another Optimus Prime repaint. But this one uses a technique which was taught by a very good friend of mine. It's a pretty nifty technique, and for me...another notch in my repainting skills. I'm still on the learning process and it gives me great pleasure and fun to be able to do what I do.

Anyhoo, this was one of the Primes that I was given to custom repaint for Big Cinema Sdn. Bhd. Last I heard, this guy has been packed and ready to be shipped to India to be one of their prizes for a contest there. Heh.

Okay...so here he is.

Leader Class Optimus Prime

So here's to hoping that the winner in India would really appreciate what I've done and take very good care of this Prime.

But...maybe I'll be seeing him on ebay pretty soon...LOL.

Cheers!

ROTF Nemesis Prime ver. 2

2011-06-27T13:35:00.004+08:00

Update!

There you go. Finally!

Okay, so the movie is coming out in the next few days. So yeah, posting movie-verse Transformers repaints is part of celebrating the last movie by Micheal Bay.

I remember doing one of these a while back, but this one was supposed to be done around the same time. I owed this to my sister in-law (yes...she collects primes) way back, but just recently got myself to finishing it...

So, like before I prefer to have Nemesis stylings to be more 'lined' than 'flaming'. Lol. I've always thought that being the reverse version of Optimus Prime should have it all...different.

Enough talk...here it is.

ROTF Nemesis Prime

Here it is. There will be more postings...hopefully by today (if the internet doesn't screw me up...).

Hakuna Matata~!

RK Designs on Facebook

2011-06-26T23:01:00.004+08:00

Hey all...

Sorry that I haven't posted anything yet for this month, but there will be some updates for the next few days. Promise!

Just wanted to give a heads up to RK Designs followers that we now have a Facebook page. Here it is...

RK DESIGNS ON FB! <-- Click here!

So, hope you all will take the time to visit and give us a 'like' to show your support. And we hope that in the years to come, we can one day produce our own products...

Thank you all again for being with us all these years!

Cheers!

Ryukaze

How it all started...

2011-06-01T13:33:00.006+08:00

Hello all...sorry, but no updates yet...haven't had the time to shoot photos of my current projects...

But I do have a story to share with you all my dear avid followers...heh...

I was talking with my wife last night and she asked me, how did it all started...So I went back to when I was wee little boy, but she stopped me...and asked, "How did RK Designs began dear..."

Oh...

That story...heh...

And I think I haven't shared that little story...so here we are...now get yourself a warm blanket and a nice cup of chocolate drink...and let me tell you a tale of hard painting and tough sandings...

You see, I have been dabbling in Gundams for a very long time...but I actually started kitbashing way back in the 1980's...I was in primary school and my family wasn't that well off. So I had my fair share of toys that I played till it was...erm...unplayable...but I loved my toys no matter what and kept on playing and I modified them. Yep. That was my earliest kitbashing that I can remember...

In the later years, I sort of left what I was doing and started doing other things...scratchbuilding. Yeah, using cardboards and other art materials I was able to make my own Starmax Bomber, Starwolf and a command base. Cool huh? Yeah. I wish I had photos of them cause most of it was destroyed.

Now, fast forward to 2005. I had purchased some knock-off Transformer toys which was an Armada Optimus Prime and Starscream. The reason? I was just curious.

So I thought to myself, what can I do to make this guys better? Not having an airbrush means I'd have to handpaint. And those suckers are quite big and hand brushing wouldn't be smooth. So I went out and bought me a can...wait...make that a few cans of aerosol paints. So being new to this medium, I worked on the Prime. It was quite tedious since I didn't really know what I was doing...

Now they call it...Repainting.

And here's the Armada Optimus that I did in 2005..(it was never finished due to the fact that I started to work on other things...heh)

Ugly huh? With so called panel linings...LOL...

Then I got my airbrush set...and came this...

Masterpiece Starscream to Starscream G1 (TomyTakara) in 2007.

Then...

Masterpiece Starscream to Thundercracker (Hasbro) in 2008

And...

Masterpiece Skywarp to Sunstorm (Hasbro) in 2010...

Must be wondering why I posted images of the Masterpiece Seekers rather than the other works I've done...I guess the MP Starscream was the one repaint that started it all...way back in 2007.

Sigh...now that was a trip down memory lane eh? I guess the upcoming Transformers 3 movie sort of made me go all nostalgic when I started all of this...sometimes, we tend to forget the reason why we do the things we do...not fame, not glamour, not publicity, not acknowledgment and heck not even for money...

but simple honest to God passion.

And I know most customisers has their reasons of doing what they do, but they do it with passion and that is something that should be treasured and not forgotten.

It all started on that one day that I bought the knock-off Optimus Prime and the cans of aerosol paints in 2005.

And the rest is history...

Upcoming Works

2011-05-30T13:26:00.003+08:00

Hey all...

Sorry that I haven't posted anything for the past weeks since last month. In truth, there were a lot actually of things that I've done. But for certain reasons, I couldn't post them yet.

But what I can say is, here is a heads up of what to come...

- 1/6 Military Jeep for 12" figures. Yep. This has been going on for some time, but due to paints and time constraints, I had to work on it slowly. (Hold on ya Tom...it's gonna be soon!!)

- Repaints of some Transformer figures: War for Cybertron Optimus, Megatron and Cliffjumper.

- More military kits.

- More diorama displays for Hasbro.

- And last but not least, a kitbash project that I have been working on for a very long time...remember this guy?

The Brain Master <-- Click on this and thy shall know for whom it is...heh

Yep...he's almost done. Why did it take so long? Not enough parts and time. Did a whole reconstruction of him and now he can...*gasp* TRANSFORM!!

So stay tune folks...RK Designs isn't down and out yet...

It's not how we roll...

Trumpeter 1/35 Hind-E

2011-04-25T16:40:00.007+08:00

Update!

Another military build, but a different kind of craft. This time around it's a 'choppa' or a helicopter. Yep, aside from the usual Transformers heli...I'm doing an actual model of a heli. And it's scaled at 1/35. Imagine that.

Okay, there were a lot color schemes to choose from and I was thinking of doing one with camo. But then, I just acquired the camo skill so better think of something else. This particular model (or any kind of chopper) if not done right there will be a lot of problems. It's not a tank which I can just re-spray it later. So upon discussion with my client, he gave me the green light to do as I please.

So I opt for the gray colored scheme. First, I think that gray is always awesome on air crafts. Two, it will be able to complement the engine parts that will be having it's hatch opened...

Engine components were done with gunmetal and drybrushed with silver and cockpit area is painted matte black also with silver drybrushing. The whole body was done with some simple pre-shades just to bring out the curves of the chopper.

Here it is...

Trumpeter 1/35 Hind-E
(note that this guy is quite big, and I don't really have a big are for photo taking...heh)

The natural light kinda reminds me of the series Airwolf. Heh.

Till next time!

Tamiya 1/35 King Tiger

2011-04-22T16:55:00.008+08:00

Update!

Here's another military model that I was working on a while back, finished it prior to my Hasbro work and has been in my hard drive for quite sometime (the pictures that is...hah).

After doing so many spot on colors, I decided this time to try my hand at camouflage...yep. Going into the unknown. That's me alright. So I went around researching on how to do camo. There were so many techniques, but I had to look for something that I can do as a beginner. And something that's around my style of airbrushing.

The first trial that I did, was plasticine. Using it as masking. The outcome? Bad. Really bad. I won't show it here cause I was embarrassed by it. Seriously it was bad. Imagine just this...octopus tentacles going up a tank. Yup. It was horrendous.

After a lot of revising on my technique, I discovered the one that I liked. So the rest was history...here it is:

Tamiya 1/35 King Tiger (Camo version)

I think it was a good try (my client liked it) so I guess now it's just about improving and refining. All I can say it was fun!

Until next time then!

Thor Movie Display 01 - Official Hasbro Work

2011-04-21T16:23:00.006+08:00

Update!

It's been a month since I've posted something new. And with good cause. Lately I've been pretty busy with a bunch of commissioned works that I've been slowly clearing up.

About a month plus or so, I was called by my good friend Alan from Toypicasso if I would be interested to work with him in doing some official commission works from Hasbro. I was speechless at that time and thinking of my luck, I agreed.

With close supervision by Alan, I was given my first job from Hasbro. I told him I've never done dioramas before so he passed me something I could start off with.

The project was to prepare a display case for a 12" Thor movie figure. You see, this figure didn't have any kind of super poseability. Basic articulation and a light up hammer. Here's the figure...

The detailing is pretty good, and the face mold has a very close likeness to Chris Hemsworth.

Okay, since being my first work...I pulled in another pair of hands to help me out. Who else but my wife. She was quite excited about it since she loves to do crafts and stuff. So we set out on our concept. We agreed on doing Asgardian. Alan said it sounded good since we can't do much with the figure.

After cutting, assembling and painting...this is how it looks like.

This emblem was handmade by my wife. It was pretty good since she used mainly household items and some 3D paint.

How the figure stands along with the display.

These are photos taken at Alan's workshop. (Photos courtesy of Alan from Toypicasso)

It was really awesome to be able to work with Alan on this project. He taught me some techniques on painting and how to do toy figure displays. More to come he says, and I can only nod and be ready to do more!

But the best thing, is that I get to do something together with my beloved wife who has been my cheerleader and support in what I do. For once, we can share in doing something...and be proud of it...

(Photo courtesy of Mr. Abdul Hanan Ismail)

This display can be seen at the entry way to the cinemas in Cathay Cinplex (e@Curve or formerly known as Cineleisure), Damansara.

Till next time!

TFTM Leaderclass Brawl (ver.2)

2011-03-24T16:06:00.006+08:00

Update!

Yup. After quite some time taking a break from repainting Transformer figures, doing this guy somehow was kinda nice. Yeah, it was a good thing that I took a break from doing them, cause I was really burned out. Three years plus of repainting TF's took it's toll on me.

Okay, so the TFTM Leaderclass Brawl belonged to a friend of mine and here was how it actually looked like.

The client wanted it to be painted green with minimal weathering. But me being me, I wanted to put in an extra mile to it. So what happens when I do that? This is what happens...LOL.

TFTM Leaderclass Brawl (ver.2)

There will be more Transformer repaints and kitbashing, that I can assure you. But for now, this is it...

Later people!

MG Zetaplus C1

2011-03-24T15:56:00.005+08:00

Update!

Another Gundam build I did awhile back. Actually this guy was finished way back but I kinda forgot where I stashed the pictures. Yeah, I got hidden compartments on my laptop. Anyhoo, this is how he looks like before being painted. (My wife suggested I do a before and after thing going on here...)

(photo courtesy of dalong.net)

And this is how he looks like after. Just changed the blue color scheme and tried out this new gray scheme I wanted to do. Here he is.

MG Zetaplus C1

The Zetaplus C1 is a transformable mecha. And you must be wondering, where's his alternate mode? Heh...Sorry, I sort of forgot to take photos of it. LOL...

Ciao Bello!

Trumpeter 1/35 Flakvierling Truck

2011-03-23T12:33:00.005+08:00

Update!

A military build. Yup, not that it's been lesser...it's just that I've been dabbling in other things. What is it you ask? Heh...that's a you have to wait and see kinda thingy...

Okay so what do I have here? This time around it's a Trumpeter kit. There were loads of detailing inside it (literally inside) and it was...erm...kinda fun (if you can say a large amount of swearing is fun that is...). All in all a sturdy build but I'd do a Tamiya kit anytime (sorry Trumpeter, my fingers are sore...)...

So here it is, Trumpeter's 1/35 Flakvierling truck...

There's going to be more. Yessirs! Why? Client picked it up so now I can reveal the other works that I've done...

Till next time!

Hasbro Star Wars Republic Gunship

2011-03-08T17:40:00.007+08:00

Update!

Finally! I can post this guy up. Heh...this guy was done up for quite sometime and just recently the owner can pick it up (conflicting of time...) and due to my policy of not posting works that are done till the owner picks it up...yeah...it was awhile...

Okay, now here is the fella before the repaint...

So what was supposed to be done? Actually the owner wanted it weathered. Make it look less toyish but more to a military transport carrier. So I applied the usual weathering style for Star Wars vehicles but I stopped at using my 'space dust' technique. Why? Well for one thing, the gunships didn't do much battle in space. It was more of a ground infantry support/transport cruiser. So I decided not to apply that technique. I kept the weathering a little heavy on the nosecone, wings and undercarriage. The rest was light since it didn't face much wind resistance. It's fun how you utilize real life physics on models/toys (and common sense) to get the right look.

Here's the Republic Gunship. (yeah...I do everything...not just TRANSFORMERS and Gundams...LOL)

There you go, the Republic Gunship. Upcoming a few more Star Wars vehicles in waiting. So stay tuned. Oh before I forget, this gunship belongs to a local collector. Just wanted to put that in...heh...

MG Zeta Gundam 1.0 - Amuro version

2011-02-28T14:09:00.006+08:00

Update.

Yup. I had an opportunity to work on a Master Grade Zeta Gundam version 1.0 (it's one of the earliest MG kits...). My good friend manage to get a good deal out of this and he has asked me to paint it with a very interesting color scheme. But there was something different about this guy...

It had 'blings'.

(photo courtesy of dalong.net)

Uh huh it was one of those special plated versions. And I for one, am a true hater of 'blings'. So getting a chance to un-'bling' this guy was a dream come true...hahahahaha...

So sanded most of the surface and primed it. Then applied the colors.

Here it is in all it's un-'bling' glory...LOL...

There you all go. My friend loved it so much and to be honest, so did I.

It's good to do Gunpla again. Don't you think so? ;)

RK Designs Answers Some Questions Part 01

2011-02-27T01:39:00.000+08:00

Lately I have received some emails and also private messages from those who has been following my work since 2007...actually, 2007 was the start of this blog and the naming of my studio.

I have been doing this for a long time. Really long.

So I'd like to answer some favourite questions that has been asked to me...

1. Dude, what happened to you?!

- Nothing happened to me. Just taking my time in doing my custom works and trying out and learning new techniques to further improve my skills...

2. Why no more Transformers?

- Actually I'm still doing them...just that I'm choosing my projects now so I can expand my skills. Doing Transformer repaints could burn me out in the future (again) so I'd rather play it safe and choose what I want to do...

3. Is it me or you're not as enthusiastic about your works anymore?

- That must be you, I'm still enjoying doing repaints and kitbashing. I just have different priorities now and you have to remember...this is just a hobby.

4. Aren't you jealous of other customisers that gets a whole lot of recognition when actually you've done some really crazier and way before them (example: MP Starscream repaint)?

- Erm...hahaha...none of it bothered me actually, I'm just doing it for the sake of the love of doing it...and actually I intend to retire from doing commissions and focus in doing my own stuffs...I do remember when I did the MP Starscream, there were a lot of criticism over it...but no one actually did try it out...and I do remember people saying I was crazy to do this, but in the end they were the ones that started commissioning me, so go figure...to answer your question, nah...it's okay...hahahahaha

5. Bro, I've been wondering why you haven't gone international with your customs...why?

- Actually I have, but I don't parade it around telling people around me that I've gone international. There are a few customs that I have done for people from as far as America and as close as Singapore. Remember, I do it for the fun of it...not as a business...

6. Why haven't you bashed a Transformer figure and change it into something else?

- Time and money. I have a lot of customs that I'm doing for people so things for myself are usually secondary. And usually my clients has a certain criteria that they want. Can't be too imaginative right? But my kitbashing is usually done on Gundams...cause that's where my heart is...

7. Try to keep your blog updated man, we need to see your works once in awhile...it's like chicken soup to my soul...LOL

- I'll try buddy. But you can't blame me for it, I just got other things that needs my attention more...

Well, hopefully those who read my blog would understand why there are times there are no updates. Just keep an eye or follow my blog, there will be updates.

It'll only stop when I'm dead.

Heh.

Cheers!

NG 1/100 00 Raiser

2011-02-22T21:58:00.006+08:00

Update!

Here we have another Gunpla build that I did a few weeks ago. Actually I've had this guy for quite sometime, but I fell back into the Gunpla mood just recently. I'm proclaiming that this is MY own personal build. LOL. So, this isn't a commission.

The original version was the design color version. I hated it.

I prefer my Gundams to be Gundams.

So I chose a darker aggressive blue to bring out the powerful build of the 00 Gundam. He has a very big build, something akin to a body builder. And I wanted to show that. Got myself waterslide decals from Bandai and I was ready to go.

Primed and base painted it. For the blue I base painted it gray. Further enhancing the blue.

Nuff' said, here it is.

NG 1/100 00 Raiser

That's all or now...see you in a few hours...(gasp...yep...there's more updates!)

Master Grade 00 Qan[T]

2011-02-01T22:15:00.006+08:00

Update!

Here's another build. After working on tanks so much, doing Gunpla is like a holiday for me! LOL.

Well, I was commissioned by a friend of mine to do up his MG OO Qan[T]. At first I had my doubts on the kit, but after playing with it...erm...I mean testing the kit that is, it's a pretty solid model. So what did I plan for the guy? He wanted it to be out of box built. Simple and doesn't differ so much from the original look.

But I still intend to do something different about it. So I chose a stronger and aggressive tone of blue. I combined two types of blue to get it just right. The white was a few coats and I tried to get it as evenly as possible. Decals were straight out of the box and no extras were added.

Alright, here it is then...

Master Grade 00 Qan[T]
No Armaments

Armed!

There's more Gundams in the workshop right now. So keep your peepers peeled!

Tamiya 1/35 M4A3 Sherman

2011-02-01T21:41:00.006+08:00

Update!

Here's another tank that I did a while back. Actually there is a bunch of stuff that I've finished doing, just that I've been a bit lazy to update. Sorry people...it's been hectic a bit and when I do get the time to do some updating...well...

Okay, enough talk...so what's with the Sherman (aside from having such an interesting name for a tank...)? Well, I had some ideas on the color scheme but I agreed with my client in doing a winter color scheme. The cool thing about this particular kit is that it had an abundance of details and accessories.

Here's another notch on my military build!

Tamiya 1/35 M4A3 Sherman

Hokay...that's about it for the Sherman. More to come! So stay tune!

Blast From The Past - MG Freedom Gundam

2011-01-22T20:08:00.006+08:00

The Year: 2006

Again another blast from the past posting. Dug into my archive and here I found another Gunpla build of mine that could have been one of my earliest airbrushed works. And me being a big fan of the Freedom Gundam (the mecha okay, not the pilot!) I wanted to make sure that this fella was done right...(on another note...I hate the Strike Freedom..bah!)

Didn't do any changes to the original paint scheme...the only details I did was added some extra decals. And so here it is...the 2006 version of the Master Grade Freedom...

(Don't bother with the panel lines and rough surface...it was half a decade ago okay...LOL)

So...What happened to this kit? It was sold a while back. Quite cheap. Yes. At that time I wasn't sure how much it was worth, and since it was one of my earlier airbrushed kit...I wasn't that confident with the pricing of my work.

Now it's different. Heh.

And stay tune, my wife got me another MG Freedom Gundam...So let's see how I do after 5 years of airbrushing and modeling...

And that was...2006.

Cheers!

Tamiya 1/35 JSU-152 with Flakvierling

2011-01-21T16:55:00.005+08:00

Update!

Another tank. Yep. But this time along with a flak cannon.

It's the JSU-152 and a 20mm Flakvierling. So what was the inspiration? Actually I suggested to my client the color gray. Originally it was colored green, but I thought gray would be awesome and more solid. He wanted to know if the flak cannon can be mounted to the back of the JSU, and seeing that the tank had quite a space behind...the answer was yes. But I didn't glue it so it will never come off, no...I just propped the guns on it's stand so it can be removed anytime...

So, following the schematics of my client...it's a pretty simple styling. Pre-shades and some wash on the creases. Not to mention connecting parts to the hatch, just to show a little wear and tear. My client didn't want anything heavy...just a nice looking tank with little weathering.

So here it is.

Tamiya 1/35 JSU-152 and 20mm Flakvierling

That's all for now folks! Be sure to tune in for next posting. Here's a hint...

Republic Gunship...and another tank...heh.

Cheers!

HALO Spartan II: Team Black - RK ver.

2011-01-16T13:04:00.008+08:00

Update!

Just a little something to mix it up a bit.

I'm a big fan of the HALO games and when I knew the figures where out, I searched for the best Master Chief figure. A few weeks ago I managed to grab a new Master Chief figure from McFarlane toys, which I think is the best. So what am I gonna do with the other 2 figures of the legendary HALO hero?

Repaint them of course!!

Well, it has been a plan of mine to do the Spartan II teams and the new team that I manage to read about was the Spartan: Team Black. A covert unit of Spartan II commandos. Their Mjolnir prototype armor were painted matte black. Since I had only two Chief figures, I opted to do Black One and Black Three, the leader and the heavy weapons specialist.

But I'm just gonna show one. The leader.

So here's how I worked on this small little project.

Here's the original figures.

I chose the slightly lanky figure to be the leader and the slightly stumpy to be the weapons specialist.

Masked the faceplate. Primed it with Mr. Hobby surface primer and painted it with flat black. Once the paints cured, I did my favourite technique...drybrushing! And the results...

Spartan II: Team Black - Black One

With the other Spartan II's. Master Chief, Spartan 104 Fred and Black One.

I'll post Black Three once I've found a suitable...erm...big gun to put him with. Heh.

Till next time!

Tamiya 1/35 Jagdpanther

2011-01-16T10:50:00.008+08:00

Update!

Yup. It's been a month I haven't posted anything. Actually this kit was done awhile back, but I have a policy that I only post the works that I have returned to my clients. No reason actually, but it's more of a personal preference. I love to see the clients reaction first...then I decide if I should post it or not...LOL!

Alright, so what do we have here? It's another military build. The last work I did was a bit more dusty and my client wanted a more cleaner look. Guess he's more of the not so heavy weathering type, but it was okay. So my reference was my previous build the 'Duster'. Giving it the desert color tone, it was a bit challenging than the 'Duster'. The 'Duster' was green and highlighting it was with some orange actually created a very nice jungle weather look.

Applying almost the same technique, the usage of color was a bit tedious. I mean, if you got the wrong tones what you'd get is a clown-ish looking tank. And I hate clowns. Heh.

Okay, let's stop clowning around and see what I did.

Tamiya 1/35 Jagdpanther

Alriteys, it's all for now. More to come!

Tamiya 1/35 Leichter Panzerspahwagen 4x4

2010-12-03T17:24:00.008+08:00

Update!

Another military build. This time around an armored car. It was a bit more challenging since an a smaller vehicle has a slight different weathering to it. And to add to the build, there was a small bike included. The colors chosen was a simple one and the owner didn't want so much heavy weathering to it. The vehicle was under the Afrika-Korps so I guess, we should take into consideration the weather and also the environment of where it was.

Here it is...

Tamiya 1/35 Leichter Panzerspahwagen (4x4) Afrika-Korps

The really small bike.

Both vehicles:

The bike was really small, roughly the length was about the size of my thumb (about 6cm in length). The details was amazing and God knows how challenging it was to paint it.

As you can see that I haven't put up any figures along the builds. Simple really, I haven't mastered painting human figures yet. They look terrible...so hopefully, my learning curve will slowly end...

Until next time!

Blast From The Past - HGUC 1/144 Advance Hazel

2010-11-26T12:07:00.004+08:00

The year: 2006.

Another build that I found in my forum. Here we have the 1/144 HGUC Advance Hazel. This particular model came from the Advance of Zeta series and had some fantastic mecha designs. The Hazel was one of my favorites as well as the TR-5 Hrairoo. Look it up in the Gundam wiki if you want to know more about this series.

This was my first Advance Hazel, by mention of first it meant it was the first that I bought and built. It was another handpainted gunpla that I did and was one of my best. I think. Heh.

The decals were from the 'Dengeki Hobby' magazine and also from waterslide decals from other gundam kits. Once handpainted, applied a nice coat of clear on it.

So where is the kit now? It's somewhere in the United States. Yep. It was sold to a forum member that I met. He liked it so much and loved my works. I wasn't sure how to do the payments, but he said not to worry. So he sent me cash. Through the post. In an envelope. Hahahaha. Awesome! And it arrived safe and sound.

Hopefully the kit is still with him and somehow I know that it's in good hands.

HGUC 1/144 Advance Hazel

Just wanted to keep you all posted, I was working on a Hazel RAH second form. But didn't manage to finish it. It's still at home. In it's box. Who knows, I might work on it again.

Cheers!

Tamiya 1/35 Tiger 1

2010-11-25T13:24:00.007+08:00

Update!

Hideeho everybody! Here's another military build. Actually the story is the same with the Sturmgeshutz...It was built by someone else, but my buddy got upset over it. Shows that if you take commission works from people, you have to ask what they want and try to give the best to them. Unless of course your client says that it's up to your creativity, but still you have to at least find some kind of level with your client which you can work with. Note that if the work looks good to you, it might not for your client. And since your client is paying you...heh...well I guess you can do the math there...heh.

Alright, here's how the tank actually look like before it got stripped down and went to the RK Designs workshop...

As I mentioned on my last post, the build isn't that bad...but some of the finishing looks rushed and it resembled more of a toy rather than a tank build. Did the same with the Sturmgeshutz and here's the final work done...

Tamiya 1/35 Tiger 1

As you can see I tried giving it some camouflage effect. Something a bit different that what I usually do. I guess I just wanted to learn doing other techniques for tank builds. There's another technique that I'll be doing, and it involves...plasticine. Heh. Wait for it.

Cheerios!

Tamiya 1/35 Sturmgeshutz III

2010-11-23T15:25:00.006+08:00

Update!

Yep. Another posting in the same day. Ain't life good? Well, it is for me that is. So, what do we have here? This is another military build that I manage to finish in this month. There's a story with this fella, and I'd like to share it with you all.

You see, this kit was passed to me by the same guy who has been commissioning me the other tanks. Actually, I offered to fix it for him. 'Fix' I mean by repainting it. Previously it was done by another modeler. But my friend wasn't at all happy with the end product. And to add salt to his injury, his friends came over and saw it...and came the painful critics. Not to mention it was his favorite tank to begin with, I could see the sadness in his voice when he speaks of this tank. I guess I can imagine what it would feel when your favorite kit not being treated as how it's suppose to be.

So, I told him that I'd like to 'fix' it for him. As a friend, I think it's the best I can do. You must be asking how it looked like before I fixed it. Here it is:

Actually, it was an okay build. It wasn't a mess. But the treatment given didn't seem appropriate. I'm not a pro in military builds but looking at it...well, it must be painful to my friend to see it that way.

First thing I did was, strip off the previous paint job. Then take out all the extra accessories that was on so I can work on the tank's surface. Once it's been properly cleaned, priming was necessary. That done, I worked on it as usual once I've identified the color scheme. And the rest...well have a look:

Tamiya 1/35 Sturmgeshutz III

Well, there you go folks. Another tank. But no worries, I'll be posting other builds in between the military kits. Just want to mix it up a bit. So it won't be so...how shall we say...boring. Heh.

Cheers!

Blast From The Past - MG Zeta Gundam Ver. 1.0

2010-11-23T14:55:00.004+08:00

It was the year 2006...

Yep, I was browsing through my forum for some old postings that I did (apparently I lost most of the pics of my Gunpla builds) and realise that in 2006 I was quite active in Gunpla building. So I got down to downloading those old pics of builds that I *gasp* handbrushed!! Yeah, before I got myself 'Elizabeth' (the nickname of my wonderful airbrush machine) I used to do handbrushing. And I loved it. Mixing it up with clear spray, I did fairly well amongst those kits that were airbrushed.

As an opening to the 'BLAST FROM THE PAST' postings (something that I'll be doing once in awhile that is...), I present to you the Master Grade Zeta Gundam ver. 1.0.

Story:
This MG kit was one of the earliest Master Grade kits made by Bandai. As some would know, the MG series are detailed 1/100 Gundam model kits that utilises their latest modeling technology. I got hold of this kit way back in mid 1990's. Didn't get myself to painting it until 2006. Where I felt a bit more confident with myself. Nothing fancy, but just some added panel linings. Why it's known as the version 1.0 is due to Bandai releasing the MG Zeta 2.0 (with better and sturdier wing binders and etc.). So here is my take on this guy...handbrushed or handpainted and topped with a clear coat.

The year was 2006...and here is my build...

MG Zeta Gundam ver. 1.0

So where is this kit now? It has gone to a better place. It was later scrapped for parts and the rest is history. The only thing left is the body...and the head. Heh.

My wife later bought me the MG Zeta 2.0, so I guess I should start working on that right? And then we compare...

RK Designs Projects (WIP) Part 1

2010-11-03T17:07:00.006+08:00

Hideeho fellow readers!

Yep...as the title says and I think a promised was made in my last posting on me sharing some of my works in progress. Actually this was suggested by a few friends since RK Designs can be quite desolate for a few weeks...LOL...

So any new projects that are mine (that means the client is yours truly...) I'd share them here. When the works are completed, I'll just add a link to this particular posting so readers won't have to browse huge amounts of postings. Heh.

Okay, so at the moment I'm working on a few personal projects that has been slowly (painfully slow) progressing..so what are they you might be asking?

1) 1/100 Akatsuki (Master Grade conversion)

Been working on this guy for a few months...it took long since I had to acquire certain parts especially the main core part which was derived from the MG Strike Gundam. A lot of cutting, sawing, puttying and sanding. At the moment it's still in construction stage and roughly about 30% done.

2) 1/100 Gundam Heavy Arms Custom (Master Grade conversion)

This guy was inspired by Vicious Project's own Heavy Arms. Using the main internal frame of the MG Wing Gundam Ka., I took my extra 1/100 H-Arms and started designing my own version. The VP version looks really sleek and awesome, but I'm going to a more heavy built look to complement its name. At the moment, it's at 20% done. Yeah...that much...heh

3) 6" Ironman Hulk Neutralizer Unit (Marvel Legend kitbash project)

Hoookay...this guy has been in my studio for...I dunno...4-5 months? Hahahahaha...It started off with me having an extra figure of an Ironman Movie 1 figure and a Marvel Legend House of M Ironman. I loved the sculpt for the ML Ironman and loved the helmet design of the new Ironman movie. So I beheaded the movie Ironman figure and reworked the neck area so I can snap it on the ML Ironman body. And...ta-daaa...a very nicely proportioned detailed figure. I named this guy the Ironman H.N.U (Hulk Neutralizer Unit). At the moment it's 70% done and I haven't decided on a color scheme yet.

Well, those are the highlights of my on going personal works...there's more though, but I think I'll finish this guys first before unveiling more...

On another note, my Marder III tank build was featured on my friends blog who are I would say an awesome modeler and has been an inspiration to me. He's also one of the admin in my forum that I founded 6 years ago (Zero-G) and has help me so many times in maintaining the peace there. So to be featured on his blog, was an honor. I would like to ask you all to go and check out his blog since it has a lot of useful information on modeling. Here's the link:

DC23 Mecharts

And here's my article:

Marder III by Ryukaze

So that's all for now...be seeing you all soon!

Tamiya 1/35 Marder III (Sd.Kfz.139)

2010-11-02T17:05:00.008+08:00

Update!

Another tank y'all!

Here we have the Marder III (Sd.Kfz.139). Need a backstory? Here it is:

The Marder III is the name for a series of World War II German tank destroyers built on the chassis of the Panzer 38(t). The German word "Marder" means "Marten" in English. They were in production from 1942 to 1944 and served on all fronts until the end of the war. - wikipedia

This is considered another attempt at military modeling and God knows how I'm loving doing it. The details put in the kits are awesome. And truth to tell...it makes me want to apply what I've learned on some of my Gundam kits!

Okay, so what have I done here? The kit came in light brown sort of creamy colored (reminded me one of Baskin Robbins coffee flavored ice cream...heh). But my good ol' buddy (owner of these awesome tanks) said that he wanted it to be in winter color scheme. Oooookay...winter. Got it. So once I've assembled the tank, the quest for the winter look began. Researched on styles and also how the pros do it. I had to take into account on how rust happens and where it usually is. You can't simply have a white tank running around right?

Once all the reference has been checked out. I started work. The base coat I used was gray, and applied black on the areas where I wanted to have the pre-shading effect. Then I applied white, but I made sure that the white wasn't as heavy then all the shading wouldn't be seen. Then I started work on the nook and crannies with the wash technique. I diluted some dark brown mixed with dark gray to get that rusty effect. After all that, I gave it some more shading and finally dry brushed some parts to give it that wear and tear texture.

And here it is...

The Marder III (Sd.Kfz.139) - Winter scheme

Phew. There it is. Doing the Marder was a pretty challenging build and I know there's a lot more that I can learn. So next up will be three more tank kits! Plus...a motorcycle! (gasp!)...

I'd like to share on some upcoming projects in my next posting that I'm currently doing which are my own and are 'works in progress'. So be on the lookout for my updates ya!

Until then...IKIMAS!!!

Tamiya 1/35 M42 'Duster'

2010-11-01T17:40:00.008+08:00

Update!

Well, actually managed to finish two more tanks last month, just didn't have the time and patience to post it. But it's never too late right? I mean it is my blog...LOL...

Anyhoo, here we have a Tamiya 1/35 scale M42 Duster. Who? Here's a little back story:

The M42 40 mm Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Gun, or "Duster" as it is known, is an armored light air-defense gun built for the U.S. Army from 1952 until December 1959. - wikipedia

There you go. I doubt that if I put up the whole back story, you'd go and click on another blog right? Heh.

Okay, so here is my third try on military modeling and now I'm more equipped with what my client/friend wants. Basically he wants some weathering but not so heavy and definitely not too clean. So by reading a little about the tank and going through loads of photos on it, I could slowly see what was needed. The tank came in a really dark flat green. So I opt for the more lighter tone. Given the idea that this tank has been in the Vietnam war, I chose to give it a slight moldy weathering. Due to the humidity of the war zone, there would be washed up mud and a little if not rust. I mean they are tanks.

So the first coat was done with a lighter tone of green. Then applying some pre-shading technique I top coated it with a slight darker green. Once that's done, I did some drybrushing with a kind of yellow+orange colors. Then did some simple wash on the panel lines and some areas to give it that rusty metal look. And lastly applied a nice coat of clear flat on top.

Here's the M42 'Duster'

Next up will be another tank. So hold on.

If you all have noticed, I've started writing again. Why? Well, it's due to my wife (she proclaims she's my number one fan...heh). She insisted that I write so my postings will have a more human touch to it. More personal. If I were to put images only, might as well post the images on Photobucket or Flickr right? Well...I guess she's got a point there. She even did a sweet and simple posting of me in her own blog, and I'd like to share it with you all.

Here's the link:
Why I Think My Husband's Hobby Of Building Model Kits Is Sexy

And I hope that it will inspire those who have a problem with people thinking that our hobby makes us immature. Remember, never be afraid of being who you are, and never be who you're not. And I think that's being mature.

Till next time!

Tamiya 1/35 Panzer IV Aus.J

2010-10-11T11:13:00.009+08:00

Update!

Yup...another tank. Sorry for the delay in the 'promised' next day update, there were just so many things happening that I totally forgot about it.

Yes, here's another tank that I managed to finished for my friend a few weeks back. It was actually done exactly after finishing the T55A. Heh.

Still being one of my first military kits, I gave it the same treatment as I did the T55A. Meaning that I didn't do much heavy weathering. Did some pre-shading and drybrushing to get a little wear and tear look but overall a clean build.

Here it is.

Panzer IV Aus.J (scale 1/35)

Yep...I need more experience in doing these...and the best thing is, I'm loving each and every built...Hopefully one day I can apply the techniques I learned from military kits into Gunpla...

Tamiya 1/35 T-55A Russian Medium Tank

2010-09-27T13:21:00.001+08:00

Update!

Well, again here I am posting another one of my works. If some noticed that my blog seems to have slowed down in the postings of new works. Please note that I am still doing a bunch of stuffs. Yes, I'm taking a hiatus from Transformers repainting (and there are still coming despite that! But I'm choosing my works and clients now...). Lately I've been dabbling in military builds. Yep.

Along the years of doing Gunpla modeling, I've always wanted to try out this kind of builds. It's a different way of modeling where you have to take into account real world physics to actually build them.

And that's where the fun was!

Here today I post my first military build. Before this I have been doing some experimental stuff on other kits, but here I have actually done one...heh...

Before anything, please note that my client wasn't sure of what I can do so he asked me to do light weathering and nothing heavy. And I was glad that he gave me the trust to work on it. Despite being my first military kit, I wanted to make sure that he was happy.

Enough talk, here it is...

T-55A Russian Medium Tank (scale 1/35)

There it is...next posting for tomorrow would be the Panzer!

ROTF Supreme Devastator

2010-08-30T02:09:00.009+08:00

Update!

One more of my last few Transformer projects. This was an interesting and tedious work that I had to do. The owner wanted me to add details and the usual weathered look. The original looked quite...erm...distasteful. Too colorful if you know what I mean.

So, did a full body repaint and pumped in a bunch of weathering details like pre-shading and dry brushing. After it was finished, boy...my hands ached.

Here are the individual vehicles (they can't transform to bot mode though):

And here's the combined form...(minus the metal testicles...lol)

A lot of pics eh? heh...

Master Grade RX-78-GP03 Stamen

2010-08-30T01:49:00.006+08:00

Update!

Yup another Gunpla project comissioned by someone. This is one of my favourite kits in the MG line and despite being an old kit, it's detailing and structure is fantastic. So when someone asked if I could paint and fix up his kit, I quickly jumped to it!

Fairly a simply clean up and detailing works were done. The detailing on it were more or less the decals. I tried not to give it too much decals since it might ruin the whole RX series.

Here it is.

Working on some more Gunpla projects, so stay tuned ya...

WFC Black Convoy

2010-08-30T01:13:00.005+08:00

Update!

Looks like another late entry here. Got my reasons.

So, what's WFC? Well, it stands for War For Cybertron. The new Transformers game that's out now.

Seeing is that I'm taking a break from Transformers repainting, there will be a few popping out cause they're some of my last few works that I'm finishing up.

Here we have the Hasbro WFC Optimus Prime repainted to Henkei Black Convoy color scheme.

More to come!

Cobra H.I.S.S (high speed sentry) - G.I.Joe

2010-08-09T19:49:00.009+08:00

Update!

Hey now this is a project that I was really excited on working (it ain't Transformers yo!). This particular H.I.S.S is from the new series of G.I.Joe vehicles that came out coinciding with the movie. It had 'real' moving treads!!! It's really a far cry from the original H.I.S.S from the cartoons and comics. With it's rotating canons at the back and it's spring action elevation system, it's a fantastic toy...but...paint job (or plastic mold)...

...sucks...

If your going to pick up one of these guys, don't be fooled by the box art. This is how it actually looks like...

Yup...thought so.

So a FRIEND of mine ASKED me to custom his H.I.S.S (kinda tongue twisting eh?). He wanted a the original black colored version. And me being me, I added some of my own touch to it. So long story short...

Cobra H.I.S.S (2010 Rise of Cobra)

Elevated Mode:

Close Ups:

I totally loved working on this guy. And I can't wait to finish up my own H.I.S.S (the cartoon/comic version) so we can do a comparison. So until then...

TFA Ramjet

2010-08-09T19:20:00.004+08:00

Update!

Another Transformers Animated figure. This fella is Ramjet. The original mold didn't have a 'conehead', so I decided to give him one.

Transformers Animated Ramjet

Heh...As you can see from the text above I'm not writing as much. Why? Well, I kinda noticed that nobody actually reads what I typed. So why bother right? How do I know? People keep on asking me the same thing...

Anonymous: 'Hey bro, was wondering if you would like to sell your custom (fill in whichever kitbash I did here)...I really like your work and wouldn't mind paying as much for that custom (oookay, the last bit I sort of made up...heh)'

Me: (wtf? Didn't he read what I wrote?...With all the passion in my heart I typed out 'my client' or 'my friends' or 'my customers'...oh well...guess he didn't read it...)

Yup...thats why.

TFA Acidstorm

2010-08-09T18:15:00.002+08:00

Update!

This one was done a few weeks back, didn't remember where I stashed the pics till a few days ago...so here it is.

Transformers Animated Acidstorm

More to come...oh by the way I am seriously taking a break from Transformers repainting and kitbashing...just wanted to be clear on that, Gunpla and other things I'm still doing...the upcoming Transformer works that I'll be posting are works that I've taken before my decision to take a break on Transformers...

Peace Y'all...

Master Grade 1/100 Duel Gundam Conversion

2010-07-26T16:44:00.007+08:00

Update!

Well, looks like my last posting caused quite a stir within some of my regular clients. LOL.

I must insist again that I'm not RETIRING. Just taking a break from doing Transformer repaintings. I have my reasons, but the most is I'm burned out. Period.

And now, here's something that I've been working on for...emmm...a year plus. Yep. That long. So being able to finish this, was a great conquest for me! And it's my first MASTER GRADE conversion.

So what's the story?
Pretty simple. The Duel Gundam (Gundam SEED series) was one of my favourite mechs. But it saddens me that Bandai never actually produced an MG kit for this guy. They came out with the usual normal grade 1/100. So, having an extra MG Strike body and a Duel 1/100 I decided to make one.

Here's the original kit. (image courtesy of dalong.net)

The process was a long one. It went through many stages. And since it was my first time doing it, all I can say is...you better make sure you think it through! I had a basic design that I wanted to do, but worked around it later to suit the concept behind this kit.

What did I want?
A Duel Gundam that actually looks like his namesake. The world Duel itself means that it is a close combat unit. The simplicity of it's main design shows that it was meant for close proximity battles. And I also wanted to show that he has been in many battles without showing any battle damage. So the idea was to have a robot that has a rough look and yet looks streamlined for combat. I included the back part of his 'Assault Shroud' armour to the hips to give him a more sturdier look. What do we get?

A very 'macho', 'rugged' looking robot...

I present my first MG'fied Duel Gundam (it has some flaws, so hope you can forgive me for that)

Armed!

I'll be planning to work on his 'Assault Shroud' armour soon. But in the meantime, I do have more Gunpla works that I'm doing. So stay tuned!

Heh...it's good to do Gunpla again...

RK Designs on break

2010-07-16T12:08:00.003+08:00

Hello all,

As from the title I guess you should know what is the news of this posting. As of today, RK Designs will be taking a break from accepting any comission works. I'll be taking only those which I have promised to do and that should be about it.

I guess it was going to come soon. Not that I'm quitting...no, it's just taking a break from painting and building other people's robots. How long? I don't really know. It all depends on me clearing up my afterburns. Yes, after more than 4 years of doing this...from repainting to gunpla building...I've burned out. I can't feel the same feeling I had a long time ago when I first started doing this.

Why? Well, for starters a lot of it is because of my career or my day job. I need to focus on a few things that matter in my career and I think I need lot of my free time for it.

Another is for once, I would like to finish up my customs, kitbashing and Gundam model kits. I've got a ton of kits I haven't built and not to mention my personal projects that I haven't gotten to do yet. So yeah...it's time to do things for myself now.

But again no worries, those who I have promised to take your jobs...I'll still do them. But I will be only taking small sized projects which are easier and is not as time consuming and it all depends on me as well. So no promises.

And I'm clearing up most of the pending jobs that I have.

Whatever it is, please do not be alarmed. RK Designs might be taking a break, but only from comission works. There will be updates once in awhile...so I'm still here ya. So keep your eyes peeled and keep on being with us to see what we've done.

Masterpiece Sunstorm

2010-07-07T12:17:00.006+08:00

Update!

Hey all, been kinda busy lately...but no worries, got a lot to share with you all...

First up here is a repaint of a Decepticon Seeker named Sunstorm. Heck...after all this time I still remember that my first MP that I repainted was Starscream...waaaay back in 2007...and actually it was that particular fella that jump started the whole RK Designs ball rolling.

So here I am again with a Masterpiece Transformer, and one of the Seekers. Actually it's not that I don't like repainting these series, but dear God...the amount of 'scratch-points' (parts that slide with each other or snap in) are insane!!! But as most of you should know, I love a good challenge!

So after looking for the best color scheme (and the owner provided what he wanted, Dreamwave) it was easy after that. The original mold was of Skywarp and everybody knows that SOB is black. Well, nothing like a little primer and then some base white couldn't do right?

A lot of patience and some touching up was required and not to mention I had to take a break for my own getaway holidays with my dear wife, I managed to finish it.

Masterpiece Sunstorm

Fighter mode:

Heh...funny how I'm listening to the movie TOP GUN's soundtrack right now. LOL...

Btw, here's the link to my previous masterpiece Seekers:

Masterpiece Starscream
Masterpiece Thundercracker

Alternator Red Alert

2010-06-14T15:09:00.005+08:00

Update!

Here's another project that I've dreamed of working for myself for quite sometime. Ever wondered where I got the Prowl head for my BT kitbash? And guess where the Smokescreen head went...LOL! This was another knock off figure I managed to get, and luckily this one wasn't as bad as the k.o. Smokescreen. Actually it was pretty good.

Alternator Red Alert.
I did some mods to the head, sawed off the front chin guard, then the horns. Smoothed it down and attached two small intakes to the side heads to emulate Red Alerts antennas. Printed out some decals and presto, a Generation One tribute to ol' Red Alert (Takara did come out with a Binaltech Alert fig, but I kinda hated it...)

Pretty nice eh? I'm planning to make another Red Alert using another mold...but I'm not sure.

Binaltech Prowl (RK Version)

2010-06-14T14:32:00.005+08:00

Update!

Another from our studios. This project has been on my table for the last one year. Yes. That long. But you all must forgive me, these are knock off Transformers. Here's the story.

Binaltech Prowl.
Originally it was a knock off Smokescreen. Managed to get hold of it about more than a year ago. I was planning to kitbash this guy to Prowl. Since I have always believed that Prowl has to have his front hood like his generation one rendition. Imagine that...it took me a year...LOL...

Apologies for the non image of his vehicle mode. Why? Since it's a knock off, the vehicle mode doesn't lock properly and it looks kinda...bad. But this is just a try and wanting to get it out of my system...Will be working on a new one soon (when I get myself a proper Alternator body...can you spell ORIGINAL?)

Stay tune for the next update!

TFA Starscream (Generation One) and TFTM Proto Prime (ver2.0)

2010-06-14T13:47:00.003+08:00

Update!

Been busy guys. Sorry.

Anyhoo, just wanted to explain that some of my updates usually depend on my customers as well. What I'd do is after my client has taken their commissioned works then only I post updates on my blog.

Why?

Simple. I want to see the expression on my clients first. I know, it sounds ri-donkey-lous but thats the way it is. If I posted it first then there's no 'WOW' factor for them. Correct?

Well, I've got here are two works that I did for a friend.

First is Transformers Animted Starscream. Overall a good figure but we needed to give him the Generation One treatment. So here it is.

TFA Starscream Generation One Colors

Next up is TFTM Protoform Optimus Prime ver 2.0.
(Did one of this awhile back, this has some improvements)

Cheers!

Kotobukiya Dyenguar with AUBenseiter

2010-05-25T13:15:00.007+08:00

Update!

Well actually this isn't an update of my latest work, its one work that I totally forgot that I did. LOL.

While I'm working on a few projects right now (trying to finish them before I go for my holidays) I stumbled upon this particular work that I did in early 2008. It was commissioned to me by a friend and heck knows how I totally forgot about it. How I stumbled onto it? I googled myself (yeah, think what you want people...).

So here it is, Kotobukiya's Dyenguar with AUBenseiter from the Super Robot War series. I purposely did a matte finish on AUBenseiter (the horse) to complement Dyenguar (rider).

Enough said...here it is...a blast from the past...the year is 2008...

Dyenguar

AUBenseiter

Dyenguar and AUBenseiter

Now wasn't that a blast? Pictures are credited to my good pal Arya. His shots are amazing!

6 Inch Ironman 2 Mark VI repaint

2010-05-12T13:40:00.006+08:00

Update!

I've got piles of work that needs to be finished before I go for my holidays. Talk about a busy month. Thankfully I've got really understanding customers, so..thanks a bunch guys..

Recently I managed to get my hands on some 6 inch Ironman 2 figures. When the toys came out in the 3 inch series I was totally not interested. Didn't even plan to get any...until I found out they came out in 6 inches...

So with my lovely wife getting me a War Machine, I had to have the Mark 6. The details and mold itself was fantastic. But as usual, I didn't really like the colors. I know the Mark 6 is an upgrade, but the color scheme seemed incomplete (to me that is).

I preferred the Mark III scheme, so after playing with the figure for awhile...I got him into the studio to be repainted. Following the Mark III scheme and used a different kind of red. First I started with the priming, making sure I got all of the areas then later applied a silver as the base coat. Then applied gloss red to bring up the beautiful shine and later applied metallic red, then did some heavy masking and applied the gold. Added some panel linings and touched up some gold areas via hand brushing. Once done, I applied two layers of gloss coat for the finishing...

And yes. I was happy after that. When put next to War Machine, they are matched. Heh...

Ironman 2 Mark VI - repainted to Mark III color scheme

Ironman 2 Mark VI and War Machine

Peace out!

Alternator Magnus

2010-04-01T18:03:00.004+08:00

Update!

Here we have an Alternator...which I think is one of the most kick-ass robot series in the Transformers line. Why? The detailing and transformation is wicked. Not to mention the real car modes. Sadly this line has stopped and I wished it didn't since they have so many other bots which they didn't roll out. But Takara has continued with the Alternity line, but it isn't as good coz they're smaller in size.

Anyhoo, what I've done here is using an Alternator Optimus Prime (Ginrai for the Takara Binaltech line) and repainted it to Magnus. As you can see I'm calling him Magnus cause I believe that with the armour, then he'll be known as Ultra Magnus. Without it, he's just Magnus. Don't you think?

Okay, here's the Magnus.

That's all folks!

TFTM Protoform Optimus Prime (G1 Tribute)

2010-03-15T13:27:00.006+08:00

Update!

I've had this figure for some time and thought that I'd give it a different look. So I gave it a traditional G1 feel to it.

TFTM Protoform Optimus Prime

Meteor Mode:

Thats all for now folks!

TFU Ironhide (G1 Tribute)

2010-03-15T13:20:00.005+08:00

Update!

Here's another TFU figure that I have been working on since last year. Same treatment I gave to Ratchet. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that I fixed the head issue that came with this figure. Did a little cutting and modding and wallah...its done!

TFU Ironhide

Next Up is TFTM Protoform Prime!!

TFU Ratchet (G1 Tribute)

2010-03-15T13:11:00.006+08:00

Update!

This project has been going on with me for the longest time. Started it since last year and up till last week I managed to finish it. Why? For a lot of reasons is all I can say. Repainted this lovely piece of Transformer re-imaging into his original G1 colors. Heh...and for once, it was for me.

Autobot Ratchet

'Dammit Prime, I'm a doctor not a Dinobot!'

Next up is Ironhide!

ROTF Nemesis Prime

2010-03-01T16:45:00.004+08:00

Update!

Yup..another one for the day...and yes...it's here...

NEMESIS PRIME...the Revenge of the Fallen version!!!

Actually I'm working on two of them but manage to finish this one first. The second has green flames (my sister in-law insisted on that...heh). So worked on this and got it done awhile back and here it is.

ROTF Nemesis Prime RK Designs vers.

There you go folks...more to come as always...

ROTF Autobot Twins Skids and Mudflap

2010-03-01T15:57:00.003+08:00

Update!

Well, another good friend of mine asked if I can work something out for this fella. Not sure how many of you guys have seen it but I can sure as heck tell that its really ridiculous.

But a job is a job and I intended to make this guys look at least display worthy.

Before:

After:

Heh...yup...got him look better.