First thing I do, is to dry fit all pieces for fit, and check for
burrs and things. Then assemble the two main body's
(the base, then the figure itself), but I don't cement the figure
to the base just yet.
Ok, now let dry, and then it's putty time! Make sure to cover all cracks,
and gaps. Best to let dry for at least 12 hours. Then start your sanding,
and contouring. Next it's prime time. I like to use a Krylon spray,
ultra-flat black. Makes for an easy'er paint job, as you will see.
On the base, where his feet go, I used some liquid masking film, so when
I prime the model for paint, I will still have a clean surface to cement the
two pieces together. Also I did not glue the name plaque, I just stuck
it in the holes so it will block the primer, and then I can remove it
for a detailed painting.
The base was pretty easy. I started with some brown paint, a large brush, and
paint thinner, and just started painting. Then adding different colors, such
as yellows, reds, white, and then dry brushing from the darker to the lighter,
till you achieve the effect you desire.
I must have put on about 7 or 8 coat's of different shades
of green, before I finally got it just right! Then dry brushing
with yellow, red, and white, to get the shading on the back
fins to look as if they are glowing.
The eye's, mouth, and teeth, was a simple task, just a bit of a steady
hand.