PTS 68 + An Old Friend Visits + Grenadier Wizard

Painting Table Saturday hits 68 with a visit from an old friend inspiring the restoration of a classic Grenadier wizard, from the days of our youth. In fact, Jim was one of the first kids I ever played D&D with in Te Kuiti. He was also one of my first friends in Te Kuiti. Thirty years can fly by. Anyway, Jim now lives in Yorkshire. It's a long way from New Zealand and I certainly appreciated the visit on his whirlwind tour of the country with his family and parents in law. 

My God sons, Thomas and Ethan.

I owe a lot to Jim. My extensive knowledge of Queen songs comes from his love of the band and his infectious laughter was always a blessing when I did something dumb. There were plenty of dumb things to do back then! Jim was also best man at my wedding. I showed him round the new house and The Man Shed (which never fails to impress blokes). Going through a collection of miniatures, I found one he had given me. Alas, I used to joke about his painting skills. I regret that now.

So this week I stripped his old wizard using Dettol. A new technique for me as I usually use paint stripper (but I was all out). The effects were suitable, although I didn't get all of the enamel off the lead, it was enough for me to get going and time was of the essence. The photos speak for themselves. I gave this wizard OSL... Object Source Lighting. May it shine a light wherever Jim decides to display it.

A day in a cap full of Dettol does the trick.

Well almost. The beard is gnarly. I begin with the face and hands.

Bright yellow undercoat to bring out the red.

I'm also almost finished the first batch of 54mm Turks for Mustering the Troops as a contribution to the diorama of Chunuk Bair, part of the official Gallipoli New Zealand WW100 project. I have also employed the assistance of my youngest daughter Rylee (aged 5).

Rylee joins the ranks of Kiwis painting for Peter Jackson.

God bless you and have a great week!