I’d love to hear what you thought of the video, was it helpful, enjoyable, easy to follow? Please drop a comment below 👇 Remember, for discount Warhammer minis and paints don’t forget to check out this link: bit.ly/2Zmbd3u If you did like this video please Like, Subscribe and Share 🙂
Great tutorial, I'm a beginner,trying to learn what tool does what , I've found that citadel paint are quite expensive for starter, is there any alternatives?
Going well until the flockbox came up, literally never even heard of one, considering they are £50 not really a beginners guide to basing. They look great but how many new painters have one?
Amazing work. I am 74 and gave up military model and diorama construction about 20 years ago when my eyesight and hand steadiness started to go. Wow that static grass applicator is simply terrific! Well done all round.
You are truly spoilt for choice sir I tend to buy from eBay stores (serious-play are very good) Search for “static grass” I use 2mm for short grass like on this base and then 4-6mm for making tufts. www.ebay.co.uk/itm/124324954582?hash=item1cf25841d6:g:Pa4AAOSwYKRho5bm
Huge help. Working on my leagues of votann and had made a rocky base already and wanted to make it stand out more. This was a huge help for my future plans for them thank you!
Absolutely stellar. Like a master, you make it look easy and make it easy to understand. and as some others have said, your audio has really improved, great work.
Nice tutorial, naturally I'd to rely on the old, classic way to apply grass on a base, but neverthless it's an excellent result. It's incredible how often cheap materials helps our hobby.
Thanks for watching. If you do get a chance to try a static applicator (flockbox) you should. It’s like magic. It might just change your hobby life. You can also make your own tufts with it too 👍🏻
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides That makes a lot of sense. Model railway builders work with electronics to begin with, probably someone noticed the effect at some point and wondered whether he could utilize it and voila.
great video! You should do a series covering static applicators. There is so much you can do with them. Also if anyone is reading: dont use the PVA that comes clear, its not as sticky, dries longer, and leaves a glossy shine.
Thanks man Sadly not, there was little interest in it when I made this video. However, it is something which I’m still keen to make. So thanks for taking the time to let me know. I’ll see what I can do 👍
Thank you, please let me know how you get on. Also, really great to know you've noticed I've been trying to improve the sound. With each video I think I learn a little more and hopefully they are getting better for you folks :) Stay tuned for more
Hey, lovely tutorial once again! I see you use a lot of drybrushing on your basing tutorials, could you maybe add a tutorial on how to properly drybrush? :)
Thanks man. Everyone should have a static applicator. As I mentioned in the video, I’m going to do one on what applicators can be used for, including making your own tufts
Brushstroke Painting Guides; fantastic. I’ve been mulling over an urban base with green moss overgrowth for a blood angels army. I won’t start until I know how I want it to look. Going back and forth of a few different options.
Cool, for moss I think your best bet would be a fine saw dust based scatter applied with some PVA glue. Javis Scenics do some nice ones javis.co.uk/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=shop.flypage_norm&product_id=7781&category_id=1372&manufacturer_id=0&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=2
Great tutorial, currently working on a large number of bases in this style. Most of the links in the description are dead. Do you happen to remember what kind of static grass this was?
Woodland Scenics do a handheld applicator called Static King. It uses the same principle but delivers the flock from above rather than pulling it up to the base. The handheld ones are better suited for large terrain boards but they can still be used for bases. I’ve never used a Woodland Scenic one specifically though, so I couldn’t say how well it performs. If possible try and get a power adapter for it, as a stronger charge improves the results
It’s a fair question but not something I’ve ever tried I’m afraid. My guess would be though, that you might have some limited success is getting the fibres to be drawn to the balloon but I imagine it will pretty hit and miss. And it would only really work with shorter (lighter) lengths of grass as they’ll need less static to move them
Amazing just would like to ask how close to the surface of the box you got to hold your base? I will be flocking based models and my concern is that this wont work well enough if model (spearman, standard bearer, bigger creature) will limit my distance. From video perspective this looks like 1 inch away. I would need something that would work from 3 inches. Please, please could you shed some light on this? In any case, one of the best bases i have seen :) Seriously. Its lovely, detailed but not overloaded and over the top.
Thank you. Really glad you found it useful. So, you’ll be pleased to know the range between the surface and the base is more than enough to have a mini inbetween. This thing makes flock go everywhere 🤣 However, if you’re struggling to get close enough because of long spears and the like you can get creative and change the surface of the flock box using foil plates. Do you have an email I can send you pics etc which will make it much easier to explain 👍 Email me at brushstroke.painter@gmail.com
Thank you. So, the advantage is the static applicator makes all the grass fibres stand upright like real grass. Without using the applicator you will end up with a lot of fibres simply laying flat on the base and not look like real growing grass
Thank you. I find the bond is good to plastic bases, I would say give your bases a quick rinse in some soapy water before hand to remove any release agent which might be on them. On bigger bases that have a bit of flex to them, you can mix some PVA glue into the filler to make it less brittle and help stop it cracking. Hope that helps and thanks for watching 🙂
Just found the channel, been following you on FB for a little while. Loving the basing guides, keep them up! I've got a couple of questions though, I've been using resin bases made by Generationshift on FB, but your guides have made me want to make some myself from scratch, so I've just ordered the filler you have linked in the description. My question is as thus, how long does it take for the filler to fully dry/set? I'm also looking at buying the flockbox you've linked in the description, which isn't the one you're using in the video as that one's sold out. So I looked a little further and saw some reviews saying the one you're using is better than the one linked in the description as it has more applications. Basically what I'm asking is; should I just get the one you linked or do you think it might be worth waiting for the one you're using to come back in stock? Thanks!
Thanks, glad you’re liking the videos. Drying time for the filler really depends on how thick you spread it really. I tend to make mine and then just leave them overnight. If you find it’s starting to dry and you want to keep working with it you can just add a touch of water and it’ll become workable again. I tried to find a link to the flockbox I used but as you said it seems to be out of stock and the makers didn’t respond to my messages asking when they’ll be back in stock, if at all. The WWS one I linked to, though, is a very good product and will work just as well. The box I have is very old, so I doubt it has any additional features to the WWS version. Hope that helps :)
Thank you so much for the reply, that definitely answers my questions. I'll be getting the WWS one then, especially if they haven't replied to you yet either, I sent them a message on FB as well but knowing that I won't expect an answer anytime soon. Thanks again!
@@MrSmartDonkeyLP just had a reply from Warpainter. They have the flockbox back in stock if youre interested? ebay.to/2QQFEJS I Might be worth being quick before they sell out again
When you get a chance please let me know how you got your grass. I really wanna try that color but cant find a set like that as a first time baser. I got tools and everything I'm just lost on what would look good. For patchy battlefield
Sorry, I completely missed this comment I get my grasses from here: www.ebay.co.uk/sch/serious-play/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from= The one in the video is a blend I made up myself but I think for starting out if you got 2mm Autumn you'd have a good alround grass flock Hope that helps
For short fibres like this the static field over the plate is more than enough to attract them to the base without the need for the extra negative contact point. When working with longer fibres (4mm plus) I usually just hold the clip to the back of the base so that the static field is created around the base from the plate. If the base is particularly thick or the attraction still isn’t strong enough I stick a sewing pin into the base where the glue is and then clip the connector to that to get a really strong static attraction. It’s rare I need to do that though, when using a 12volt static applicator
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Do you hold the base from the cable or do you stick the tip of the cable between the wood handle and the base? Thank you for your reply by the way :) I bought a similar flock box (from the evemodel) and the grass is sticking to my hand more than the base :DD
@@taylanerol7 I tend to just hold the clip against the bottom of the base to be honest. It makes it much quicker to do multiple bases that way, just pick them up and away you go. The flock goes everywhere, that can't be helped and yes if your hand is in the field it'll get some fibres drawn to it too. just brush them back into the pot to use again later :)
These look awesome. Do you plan your base features around where the model will be glued onto the base or can I just make one then glue my mini wherever I want?
Thank you. Yes, it’s always good to plan your bases and minis together. I will have the mini at hand to test positioning as I make the base, just to be sure it’ll fit properly. I also tend to take a quick pic on my phone of the unpainted mini on the unpainted base so I can be sure I position it right again when it comes to attaching them. Lost count of the times I couldn’t remember how they fit otherwise. 🤣 Another tip, if you’re doing bases and minis separate is to number the underside, so you can make sure you get the right mini with the right base at the end 👍🏻
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides thanks for the response. Good advice to take a picture of the positioning before you start. I would definitely be the type of guy to forget completely where it was supposed to go.
@@wardy940 pressing indents of the feet / wheels etc into the base while it’s still wet is another good trick to help with positioning and to give the impression of weight of the mini. Wetting the mini first helps it not to stick to the base and give a better imprint
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides another good idea. Then I can just avoid getting any the base materials onto areas where the feet will stick. Now I just need one of those static grass applicators.
I advise you pin the mini by drilling a small hole in both the base and the mini and then fix it all together with a short piece of metal paperclip ua-cam.com/video/zAXPCRfKoec/v-deo.html This shows the process. You can drill the hole in the base before or after painting but I recommend you do it before adding the flock grass
Thank you It doesnt have a name, it's a blend of my own mixing. I buy different coloured grass flock on eBay and mix them to get blends I like. This is sort of a cross between summer and autumn I guess. Sorry if thats not too helpful. The flock size is 2mm and I get them from here: www.ebay.co.uk/sch/serious-play/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=
Thank you. Applicators are really cool bits of kit and I'd be lost without mine. As I'll show in a new video, they are most useful for making your own tufts, which has saved me a fortune for sure
So, the method I use is to pin the mini to the base. Drill a small hole in the base and the bottom of the mini and use a small metal pin (paperclip works well) to hold them together Superglue the lot in place
I’ve never used mod podge before, so I’m not familiar with its properties. I believe people use it for similar stuff, so it’s certainly worth a try. I think a closer American equivalent would be spackle though, if that helps at all?
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides gunna be honest 1. No clue what spackle is and 2. I'm both pretty new to the Warhammer community and I'm trying to find a way to get like a somewhat grassy/aged temple look for my stormcast since most of the bases are blank
No worries at all. I reckon mod podge will work just fine. Filler and spackle is just a paste which is used in decorating/ construction to fill in small holes in walls and dry wall / plaster board. I just use it cos it’s cheap. Try podge and let me know how you get on 👍🏻
My preferred method is to drill a small hole in the base and in the bottom of the mini (usually in the feet) and then glue a small piece of paperclip into both to form a strong bond and join between the base and the mini. Hope that helps
Watched this a couple of times now and really like it. But that flockbox Seems hard to come by these days. Anyone got any tips for places to buy one or something similar?. found som "rods" that does the same thing but the seem to make quite the mess.
No problem. The drying time will depend on the exact product used, how thick it's applied and the conditions of the room. Generally speaking though, it is a DIY product and is made to be pretty quick drying and for a base like this it is usually dry within an hour. However, what I usually do is make a batch of them at once at the end of the day and then leave them overnight. That way you'll be sure they're dry and good to go. FYI, even when the filler is fully dry, getting it wet again will make it soft and sculptable again. So, only consider it fully cured once you've primed it
I just tried using a static grass box last night, but had a really hard time getting that really full look you're getting here. The grass definitely stuck to the glue on the base, but it was so sparse, and I wanted a lush grass look like you're getting here. I noticed you're not using the alligator clip (or maybe yours works differently than mine). Is that not necessary for this? It seemed like the grass wanted to fly everywhere EXCEPT my mini base 🤣
OK, can I ask what glue you’re using? Also, what voltage is your flockbox? As for the clip, yeah you should use it, as it helps focus the charge. I usually just hold it behind the base, so the charge is drawn through the base.
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Thanks for responding, man! I'm using Mod Podge PVA glue (the matte kind) and I'm using a 9 volt war world scenics static grass box. I'm not watering the glue down at all, other than a little water from cleaning my brush.
I think there could be a couple of things which are causing the poor results you're experiencing. The first is I think your glue may be too wet. You need to let the PVA to stand for a while first. I need it to be going tacky for optimum results. What I like to do is apply my glue to the base and then to a scrap sprue piece. Then I can leave the base to be drying while i do something else. I can use the glue on my scrap sprue to check how sticky it is. Once I can see the glue is sticky to the touch I go ahead and use the flockbox. You should find the glue is a lot stronger and able to hold a much tighter collection of fibers then. The other possibility is the static field isnt strong enough to attract enough fibers. Anything over 4mm and I think 9V might struggle. I was able to get a mains power adapter for mine which upped it to 12V and that was a lot stronger. Hope that helps
I don't use any particular brand of flock. I tend to just buy various colours on eBay and make my own blends. This has a mix of greens, some brown, bit of yellow and a touch of red.
You’re right I didn’t use the clip on this base and the reason was because I was using 2mm static grass. Because the fibres are very small they don’t need much charge to be attracted and so the field between the plate and your hand is enough. For longer grasses I would simply hold the clip behind the base so that it has a stronger charge to the base. Hope that helps 🙂
Yeah, definitely one of those things which isn’t mentioned enough. Static applicators come in various styles and sizes. I’m planning on doing a comparison video to show the pros and cons of each type as some suit certain purposes better than others
When the filler dries it should shrink slightly and grip stones etc. If it’s persistent problem there’s a couple of things you can try, both using PVA glue. You can add some water thinned PVA to your filler. This will make the mixture less brittle and hold its form better when set. Or, you can coat the dried base with some water down PVA. Once dry it will form a skin and hold everything in place nicely
Real shame that the flock box isn't available anymore. It looks so much easier than the dodgy static applicator i got that sprinkles things on to something from above.
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides I found good videos about applicators, BUT not much on volts, or plugged into main or output for the hand held ones. how volts help how well something works. The one you have in your video is a great product, but thst company doesn't make that box anymore. I have found a couple boxes. GreenStuff World: DC output 12-15 kv, evemodel: DC output 17 kv. Both plug in main. But there are others that use a 9volt battery thst are hand held. Those I cannot find alot of into. Do you think the boxes are better than the hand held ones with screens?
@@itsio7188 generally speaking the higher the voltage the stronger static field formed. Overall, I think the box style is better for bases and tuft making. The handhelds are better if you’re wanting to do large gaming boards / terrain pieces as it’s the only way to cover such large areas. Downside really is the handhelds generate weaker static and I think poorer results. Especially with longer fibres. So it depends what your needs are I can recommend these www.wwscenics.com/product/pro-grass-box-applicator-wws/
@@itsio7188 oh really? Sorry, I could have sworn it had an adapter socket too. But you’re right, it doesn’t seem to state that. I wonder if they’ve changed the product? I’ll see if I can find a better product
Is grass is being attracted to the base because the base is in the electrostatic field created by the flockbox. This works well with smaller length grasses. If you’re wanting to make longer length tufts of say 6mm you need make the attraction stronger. For this, the flockbox comes with an additional lead which you can attach to the underside of your base and that will strengthen the pull of the fibres towards the base
Absolutely! They are a hobby must I think. There are actually a couple of different types. So I’m going to do a video highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each to help people make the right choice. Spoiler alert though, I think the box type is the best allrounder
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides I just got started on my first miniatures yesterday and I've been powering through tutorials for hours. I'll be subscribing to see more videos like this :)
Boomchucks welcome to the hobby 👍🏻 Thank you for the support, really appreciate it. I hope you enjoy my videos. If you have any questions, feel free to ask
Great stuff! Just a little odd that you use expensive paints and good brushes for your bases. I find that cheap house paints and hog’s bristle brushes do a more than adequate job. Prefer to save my costly brushes for detailed work rather than terrain, which eats brushes at a voracious pace.
Absolutely livid that I’ve been thinking the Brits were talking about a specific material for basing. Took me until now you guys meant literal, actual drywall filler. Fml.
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides I mean some people call it sparkle, some people call it mud, some people call it filler. Regardless. Thanks for the tutorial. Subbed.
No, definitely not. The idea of the video was to show how I achieved the grass. Not a lot of gamers know grass applicators exist, so it’s a chance to introduce it. For sure you can create grass bases using shop bought tufts, if you don’t want to buy an applicator. I would say though, it youre planning on having grass bases and terrain, then an applicator is a good investment. You can save a fortune on tufts because you can make them yourself with the applicator. I’ve flocked display boards and dioramas with mine. One of the best bits of hobby kit I’ve bought.
Brushstroke Painting Guides thanks man. Didnt mean to sound like a dick, i really think this video is great. Ill definitely look into getting one of those applicators.
True, it didn’t add anything to the paint job. I use it mainly to help details show up on camera. The aim of this video is more the introduction and demonstration of a static applicator for the flock, as many people are completely unaware of their existence
Terrible guide, especially for new players, utterly complicated, requires bloody machines, jesus dude I don't wanna land on moon, I just wanna put some grass on my base.
I’m sorry you found the process overly complicated. I made this video to answer people asking how I make my bases, because they couldn’t get theirs looking the same. Unfortunately, if you’re wanting to achieve grass bases where the grass is all standing upright you’ll need to apply it using a static charge. It’s why the product is called “static grass”. I’m not claiming this is the only way to do it, simply how I get the results I do :)
I’d love to hear what you thought of the video, was it helpful, enjoyable, easy to follow?
Please drop a comment below 👇
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Did you ever get to make a video of the different flocking boxes? I’d love to watch it!
Great tutorial, I'm a beginner,trying to learn what tool does what , I've found that citadel paint are quite expensive for starter, is there any alternatives?
Going well until the flockbox came up, literally never even heard of one, considering they are £50 not really a beginners guide to basing. They look great but how many new painters have one?
Amazing work. I am 74 and gave up military model and diorama construction about 20 years ago when my eyesight and hand steadiness started to go. Wow that static grass applicator is simply terrific! Well done all round.
Thank you. 🙂
That flock box is blowing my mind. Fun! Great video too!
Thank you, glad you enjoyed the video.
Everyone needs a flock box in their hobbies lives.
Best thing I’ve ever bought
That was probably one of the coolest tech applications I’ve seen in this hobby
Thanks man
Static applicators are a game changer for sure. Just the ability to make your own tufts means it pays for itself in no time 👍🏻
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides what loose flocking medium do you recommend to use for DIY?
You are truly spoilt for choice sir
I tend to buy from eBay stores (serious-play are very good)
Search for “static grass”
I use 2mm for short grass like on this base and then 4-6mm for making tufts.
www.ebay.co.uk/itm/124324954582?hash=item1cf25841d6:g:Pa4AAOSwYKRho5bm
Huge help. Working on my leagues of votann and had made a rocky base already and wanted to make it stand out more. This was a huge help for my future plans for them thank you!
Absolutely stellar. Like a master, you make it look easy and make it easy to understand.
and as some others have said, your audio has really improved, great work.
Thank you 🙏🏻
Nice tutorial, naturally I'd to rely on the old, classic way to apply grass on a base, but neverthless it's an excellent result. It's incredible how often cheap materials helps our hobby.
Thanks for watching.
If you do get a chance to try a static applicator (flockbox) you should. It’s like magic. It might just change your hobby life.
You can also make your own tufts with it too 👍🏻
This was great! I never heard of a flock box until now but it looks very useful. Thanks for sharing this.
Using an electrostatic charge to apply grass to your base? You sir, are on another level of hobbyists!
Thank you... I can’t take credit for the idea though, model railway builders have been doing it for years.
It works so well though. 👍🏻
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides That makes a lot of sense. Model railway builders work with electronics to begin with, probably someone noticed the effect at some point and wondered whether he could utilize it and voila.
ive never even seen one of those cool machines very slick! looks AMAZING! great job! :)
Thanks for watching
Glad I’ve been able to introduce you to the best hobby tool ever 👍🏻
Very impressive. I’m tired of paying through the nose for static grass patches. Cool stuff.
great video! You should do a series covering static applicators. There is so much you can do with them.
Also if anyone is reading: dont use the PVA that comes clear, its not as sticky, dries longer, and leaves a glossy shine.
wonderful video and beautiful results!
great video - do you have any tips for getting this effect if there is a mini already attached to the base?
It's a true magic box that magics grass!
I would be VERY interested in seeing the video on various applicators/techniques you mentioned you wanted to make separately.
Was this video produced?
Thanks man
Sadly not, there was little interest in it when I made this video.
However, it is something which I’m still keen to make. So thanks for taking the time to let me know. I’ll see what I can do 👍
Man that's awesome. I will try this soon. Btw , your sound has improved greatly. Heep them videos comming :)
Thank you, please let me know how you get on.
Also, really great to know you've noticed I've been trying to improve the sound.
With each video I think I learn a little more and hopefully they are getting better for you folks :)
Stay tuned for more
Hey, lovely tutorial once again! I see you use a lot of drybrushing on your basing tutorials, could you maybe add a tutorial on how to properly drybrush? :)
That's a cool tutorial! I've never seen that device before.
Thanks man. Everyone should have a static applicator. As I mentioned in the video, I’m going to do one on what applicators can be used for, including making your own tufts
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Hate to be that guy, but got an update to this applicator video?
Very impressed… have they stopped making the flock box, I can’t seem to find one anywhere
Wow this was great. Can’t wait for more.
Thank you.
Stay tuned, loads more to come 👍🏻
Brushstroke Painting Guides; fantastic. I’ve been mulling over an urban base with green moss overgrowth for a blood angels army. I won’t start until I know how I want it to look. Going back and forth of a few different options.
Cool, for moss I think your best bet would be a fine saw dust based scatter applied with some PVA glue. Javis Scenics do some nice ones
javis.co.uk/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=shop.flypage_norm&product_id=7781&category_id=1372&manufacturer_id=0&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=2
Swanky work. Definitely good to see some love for bases being shown
Thanks for watching
I enjoy trying to make bases which set the scene and help tell a story.
Just amazing tbh
Nice tutorial bud, that base looks ace!
Thank you 🙏🏻
Great tutorial, currently working on a large number of bases in this style.
Most of the links in the description are dead. Do you happen to remember what kind of static grass this was?
The flock box looks useful. Is there a flock box in the u.s. you would recommend?
I think Woodland Scenics might do something similar, I’ll have a look
Woodland Scenics do a handheld applicator called Static King.
It uses the same principle but delivers the flock from above rather than pulling it up to the base.
The handheld ones are better suited for large terrain boards but they can still be used for bases. I’ve never used a Woodland Scenic one specifically though, so I couldn’t say how well it performs.
If possible try and get a power adapter for it, as a stronger charge improves the results
Sir, if you don't mind, could you tell me the 2mm static glass product? The color is so pretty, but I can't find it.
Awesome 👏
Thank you
When can we expect the applicator video, these vids are great mate. looking forward to more!
Thank you, please do help me out by letting people know about the channel.
Hoping to start filming on applicator vid this weekend.
So stay tuned
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Hey, still working on it?
This may be a silly question... can you use balloons to create static to help the grass stand up? Or is it too weak?
It’s a fair question but not something I’ve ever tried I’m afraid.
My guess would be though, that you might have some limited success is getting the fibres to be drawn to the balloon but I imagine it will pretty hit and miss. And it would only really work with shorter (lighter) lengths of grass as they’ll need less static to move them
Amazing just would like to ask how close to the surface of the box you got to hold your base? I will be flocking based models and my concern is that this wont work well enough if model (spearman, standard bearer, bigger creature) will limit my distance.
From video perspective this looks like 1 inch away. I would need something that would work from 3 inches.
Please, please could you shed some light on this?
In any case, one of the best bases i have seen :) Seriously. Its lovely, detailed but not overloaded and over the top.
Thank you.
Really glad you found it useful.
So, you’ll be pleased to know the range between the surface and the base is more than enough to have a mini inbetween. This thing makes flock go everywhere 🤣
However, if you’re struggling to get close enough because of long spears and the like you can get creative and change the surface of the flock box using foil plates.
Do you have an email I can send you pics etc which will make it much easier to explain 👍
Email me at brushstroke.painter@gmail.com
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides email sent. You are amazing!!!
Really love the video.
Thank you!
Great video thank you
Really well done!
A question tho, what's the advantage of using the static applicator instead of sprinkling it by hand?
Thank you.
So, the advantage is the static applicator makes all the grass fibres stand upright like real grass. Without using the applicator you will end up with a lot of fibres simply laying flat on the base and not look like real growing grass
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuidesrub a balloon to build up a charge and hold it over the base to make the nylon fibers stand upright. Saved ya $60 😁
Did you ever end up making that flock applicators video? That would be very useful.
Great tutorial for a novice! One question though. The filler material you've used for texture, how well does it adhere to the plastic style bases?
Thank you.
I find the bond is good to plastic bases, I would say give your bases a quick rinse in some soapy water before hand to remove any release agent which might be on them.
On bigger bases that have a bit of flex to them, you can mix some PVA glue into the filler to make it less brittle and help stop it cracking. Hope that helps and thanks for watching 🙂
Oo might try this with a Highland base for my Dark Angels. I picked up the Highland set from GamersGrass
Do it! 🙂
And be sure and let me know how you get on 🤛🏻
Just found the channel, been following you on FB for a little while. Loving the basing guides, keep them up!
I've got a couple of questions though, I've been using resin bases made by Generationshift on FB, but your guides have made me want to make some myself from scratch, so I've just ordered the filler you have linked in the description. My question is as thus, how long does it take for the filler to fully dry/set?
I'm also looking at buying the flockbox you've linked in the description, which isn't the one you're using in the video as that one's sold out. So I looked a little further and saw some reviews saying the one you're using is better than the one linked in the description as it has more applications. Basically what I'm asking is; should I just get the one you linked or do you think it might be worth waiting for the one you're using to come back in stock?
Thanks!
Thanks, glad you’re liking the videos.
Drying time for the filler really depends on how thick you spread it really. I tend to make mine and then just leave them overnight. If you find it’s starting to dry and you want to keep working with it you can just add a touch of water and it’ll become workable again.
I tried to find a link to the flockbox I used but as you said it seems to be out of stock and the makers didn’t respond to my messages asking when they’ll be back in stock, if at all.
The WWS one I linked to, though, is a very good product and will work just as well.
The box I have is very old, so I doubt it has any additional features to the WWS version.
Hope that helps :)
Thank you so much for the reply, that definitely answers my questions.
I'll be getting the WWS one then, especially if they haven't replied to you yet either, I sent them a message on FB as well but knowing that I won't expect an answer anytime soon.
Thanks again!
No problem. Let me know how you get on 👍🏻
@@MrSmartDonkeyLP just had a reply from Warpainter. They have the flockbox back in stock if youre interested? ebay.to/2QQFEJS I
Might be worth being quick before they sell out again
When you get a chance please let me know how you got your grass. I really wanna try that color but cant find a set like that as a first time baser. I got tools and everything I'm just lost on what would look good. For patchy battlefield
Sorry, I completely missed this comment
I get my grasses from here:
www.ebay.co.uk/sch/serious-play/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=
The one in the video is a blend I made up myself but I think for starting out if you got 2mm Autumn you'd have a good alround grass flock
Hope that helps
Following this right now
Nice one. Let me know how it goes 👍🏻
Where did you connect the positive and the negative cables? Shouldn't you attach the negative cable to the thing that you want to apply grass?
For short fibres like this the static field over the plate is more than enough to attract them to the base without the need for the extra negative contact point.
When working with longer fibres (4mm plus) I usually just hold the clip to the back of the base so that the static field is created around the base from the plate.
If the base is particularly thick or the attraction still isn’t strong enough I stick a sewing pin into the base where the glue is and then clip the connector to that to get a really strong static attraction.
It’s rare I need to do that though, when using a 12volt static applicator
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Do you hold the base from the cable or do you stick the tip of the cable between the wood handle and the base? Thank you for your reply by the way :) I bought a similar flock box (from the evemodel) and the grass is sticking to my hand more than the base :DD
@@taylanerol7 I tend to just hold the clip against the bottom of the base to be honest.
It makes it much quicker to do multiple bases that way, just pick them up and away you go.
The flock goes everywhere, that can't be helped and yes if your hand is in the field it'll get some fibres drawn to it too. just brush them back into the pot to use again later :)
These look awesome. Do you plan your base features around where the model will be glued onto the base or can I just make one then glue my mini wherever I want?
Thank you.
Yes, it’s always good to plan your bases and minis together.
I will have the mini at hand to test positioning as I make the base, just to be sure it’ll fit properly.
I also tend to take a quick pic on my phone of the unpainted mini on the unpainted base so I can be sure I position it right again when it comes to attaching them.
Lost count of the times I couldn’t remember how they fit otherwise. 🤣
Another tip, if you’re doing bases and minis separate is to number the underside, so you can make sure you get the right mini with the right base at the end 👍🏻
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides thanks for the response. Good advice to take a picture of the positioning before you start. I would definitely be the type of guy to forget completely where it was supposed to go.
@@wardy940 pressing indents of the feet / wheels etc into the base while it’s still wet is another good trick to help with positioning and to give the impression of weight of the mini.
Wetting the mini first helps it not to stick to the base and give a better imprint
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides another good idea. Then I can just avoid getting any the base materials onto areas where the feet will stick. Now I just need one of those static grass applicators.
@@wardy940 exactly 👍🏻
Woodward u make it look so easy
Thank you
Brilliant many thanks
Thank you 🙏🏻
How do you attach the mini to the base after you've already decorated it?
I advise you pin the mini by drilling a small hole in both the base and the mini and then fix it all together with a short piece of metal paperclip
ua-cam.com/video/zAXPCRfKoec/v-deo.html
This shows the process. You can drill the hole in the base before or after painting but I recommend you do it before adding the flock grass
Holy (beep)! I didn’t even know that was a Thing! I hafta have one!
Hello, what is the static grass you used called? I want the same color. Nice tutorial.
Thank you
It doesnt have a name, it's a blend of my own mixing.
I buy different coloured grass flock on eBay and mix them to get blends I like.
This is sort of a cross between summer and autumn I guess.
Sorry if thats not too helpful. The flock size is 2mm and I get them from here:
www.ebay.co.uk/sch/serious-play/m.html?_nkw=&_armrs=1&_ipg=&_from=
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Thanks! They have a lot of nice products. I bought some.
Diy grass tut, all you need is a wizard box!
Very cool. I see the various applicators but have never invested, maybe I should.....
Thank you. Applicators are really cool bits of kit and I'd be lost without mine. As I'll show in a new video, they are most useful for making your own tufts, which has saved me a fortune for sure
do you just glue the mini on to it or do you need to pin it?
I strongly recommend you always pin.
Supergluing will be risky I think
Interesting idea to use wall filler for the base. How long it takes to dry?
Depends on how thick you spread it but usually between 20-30 minutes
thanks
Helped me thanks!
That’s awesome, thanks for watching 👍🏻
The link to the static grass does not work. Can you tell us what brand of static grass you used?
hello my friend. How do you glue miniatures over the grass??? loctite?
So, the method I use is to pin the mini to the base.
Drill a small hole in the base and the bottom of the mini and use a small metal pin (paperclip works well) to hold them together
Superglue the lot in place
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides thank you veryyy much!!! 🙏🙏🙏
Would mod podge work instead of using the filler at the beginning?
I’ve never used mod podge before, so I’m not familiar with its properties. I believe people use it for similar stuff, so it’s certainly worth a try.
I think a closer American equivalent would be spackle though, if that helps at all?
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides gunna be honest 1. No clue what spackle is and 2. I'm both pretty new to the Warhammer community and I'm trying to find a way to get like a somewhat grassy/aged temple look for my stormcast since most of the bases are blank
No worries at all.
I reckon mod podge will work just fine.
Filler and spackle is just a paste which is used in decorating/ construction to fill in small holes in walls and dry wall / plaster board.
I just use it cos it’s cheap.
Try podge and let me know how you get on 👍🏻
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides ok will do
Once you've completed the base, what's the best way to attach the mini to it?
My preferred method is to drill a small hole in the base and in the bottom of the mini (usually in the feet) and then glue a small piece of paperclip into both to form a strong bond and join between the base and the mini.
Hope that helps
Watched this a couple of times now and really like it. But that flockbox
Seems hard to come by these days. Anyone got any tips for places to buy one or something similar?. found som "rods" that does the same thing but the seem to make quite the mess.
Have you tried WWS?
www.wwscenics.com/product/pro-grass-box-flock-applicator-%C2%96-card-making/
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides will check it out. Thank you :)
@@mekonen7684 no problem
Let me know how you get on
how long do you find the filler takes to dry? Sorry I know it's an ancient video
No problem.
The drying time will depend on the exact product used, how thick it's applied and the conditions of the room.
Generally speaking though, it is a DIY product and is made to be pretty quick drying and for a base like this it is usually dry within an hour.
However, what I usually do is make a batch of them at once at the end of the day and then leave them overnight.
That way you'll be sure they're dry and good to go.
FYI, even when the filler is fully dry, getting it wet again will make it soft and sculptable again. So, only consider it fully cured once you've primed it
I just tried using a static grass box last night, but had a really hard time getting that really full look you're getting here. The grass definitely stuck to the glue on the base, but it was so sparse, and I wanted a lush grass look like you're getting here. I noticed you're not using the alligator clip (or maybe yours works differently than mine). Is that not necessary for this? It seemed like the grass wanted to fly everywhere EXCEPT my mini base 🤣
OK, can I ask what glue you’re using?
Also, what voltage is your flockbox?
As for the clip, yeah you should use it, as it helps focus the charge. I usually just hold it behind the base, so the charge is drawn through the base.
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Thanks for responding, man! I'm using Mod Podge PVA glue (the matte kind) and I'm using a 9 volt war world scenics static grass box. I'm not watering the glue down at all, other than a little water from cleaning my brush.
I think there could be a couple of things which are causing the poor results you're experiencing.
The first is I think your glue may be too wet. You need to let the PVA to stand for a while first. I need it to be going tacky for optimum results. What I like to do is apply my glue to the base and then to a scrap sprue piece. Then I can leave the base to be drying while i do something else. I can use the glue on my scrap sprue to check how sticky it is. Once I can see the glue is sticky to the touch I go ahead and use the flockbox. You should find the glue is a lot stronger and able to hold a much tighter collection of fibers then.
The other possibility is the static field isnt strong enough to attract enough fibers. Anything over 4mm and I think 9V might struggle. I was able to get a mains power adapter for mine which upped it to 12V and that was a lot stronger.
Hope that helps
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides thanks man! I’ll try these changes!
Let me know how you get on 👍🏻
one question, what machine to applicate the grass is??
It’s a flock box. There’s a link to one in the description of the video 👍🏻
Which static grass in particular was it that you used in the video?
I don't use any particular brand of flock. I tend to just buy various colours on eBay and make my own blends. This has a mix of greens, some brown, bit of yellow and a touch of red.
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides thanks for the advice!
You don't seem to use the green clipper on your base. Isn't this required? These applicators are exciting!
You’re right I didn’t use the clip on this base and the reason was because I was using 2mm static grass. Because the fibres are very small they don’t need much charge to be attracted and so the field between the plate and your hand is enough.
For longer grasses I would simply hold the clip behind the base so that it has a stronger charge to the base. Hope that helps 🙂
I had never heard of this tool. If you said to me the words flock box I'd have thought literally just a tub of flock.
Yeah, definitely one of those things which isn’t mentioned enough. Static applicators come in various styles and sizes. I’m planning on doing a comparison video to show the pros and cons of each type as some suit certain purposes better than others
My stones come loose when the filler dries (they are pressing into the filler somewhat too), how do yours not?
When the filler dries it should shrink slightly and grip stones etc.
If it’s persistent problem there’s a couple of things you can try, both using PVA glue.
You can add some water thinned PVA to your filler. This will make the mixture less brittle and hold its form better when set.
Or, you can coat the dried base with some water down PVA. Once dry it will form a skin and hold everything in place nicely
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Thank you, I am doing testing with watered down PVA currently 👌
@@cscouldbe8883 no problem, let me know how you get on 🙂
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Watered down PVA is the remedy, about 50/50 mix. 👌 Thank you
@@cscouldbe8883 brilliant, really glad it worked out for you 👍🏻
I make bases for my action figures that can’t stand up and this looked great
Which size and colour of the flock you used in the video?
hi, it was 2mm flock and the colour was a custom blend I made from mixing different flocks together from eBay
Real shame that the flock box isn't available anymore. It looks so much easier than the dodgy static applicator i got that sprinkles things on to something from above.
Had a look and here’s an alternative brand
www.wwscenics.com/product/pro-grass-box-applicator-wws/
Noob question here: isn't it enough with just the black primer?
Perfectly good question.
Yes! A single black primer is 100% enough. I just added the pale grey so details stand out better on camera 👍🏻
Did you ever make other videos on ststic grass applicators?
Ive been researching for a while now and no real honest view
No sorry, there didnt seem to be a lot of interest at the time
Happy to answer any questions you have though if it will help?
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides I found good videos about applicators, BUT not much on volts, or plugged into main or output for the hand held ones. how volts help how well something works. The one you have in your video is a great product, but thst company doesn't make that box anymore. I have found a couple boxes. GreenStuff World: DC output 12-15 kv, evemodel: DC output 17 kv. Both plug in main. But there are others that use a 9volt battery thst are hand held. Those I cannot find alot of into.
Do you think the boxes are better than the hand held ones with screens?
@@itsio7188 generally speaking the higher the voltage the stronger static field formed.
Overall, I think the box style is better for bases and tuft making.
The handhelds are better if you’re wanting to do large gaming boards / terrain pieces as it’s the only way to cover such large areas.
Downside really is the handhelds generate weaker static and I think poorer results. Especially with longer fibres.
So it depends what your needs are
I can recommend these
www.wwscenics.com/product/pro-grass-box-applicator-wws/
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides it takes a 9v battery. I wonder if it has a transformer or something. Do you know the outage? It does not seem to say
@@itsio7188 oh really? Sorry, I could have sworn it had an adapter socket too.
But you’re right, it doesn’t seem to state that. I wonder if they’ve changed the product?
I’ll see if I can find a better product
Have you never had the spackle crack or come loose on your bases?
If you find spackle a bit too dry and brittle when set. Then you can mix some watered down PVA glue into it and that’ll fix the problem
What about the base is the grass being attracted to
Is grass is being attracted to the base because the base is in the electrostatic field created by the flockbox.
This works well with smaller length grasses.
If you’re wanting to make longer length tufts of say 6mm you need make the attraction stronger.
For this, the flockbox comes with an additional lead which you can attach to the underside of your base and that will strengthen the pull of the fibres towards the base
I got to get me one of those
Absolutely! They are a hobby must I think. There are actually a couple of different types. So I’m going to do a video highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of each to help people make the right choice. Spoiler alert though, I think the box type is the best allrounder
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides I just got started on my first miniatures yesterday and I've been powering through tutorials for hours. I'll be subscribing to see more videos like this :)
Boomchucks welcome to the hobby 👍🏻
Thank you for the support, really appreciate it. I hope you enjoy my videos. If you have any questions, feel free to ask
Great stuff! Just a little odd that you use expensive paints and good brushes for your bases. I find that cheap house paints and hog’s bristle brushes do a more than adequate job. Prefer to save my costly brushes for detailed work rather than terrain, which eats brushes at a voracious pace.
Dude you're crazy for painting every rock. Just add brown paint to your spackle, get grey rocks and seal them with watered down mod podge
Ok aside from the sheer coolness of a static table. Why use one?
Purely down to the end result being SO much better when you use a static applicator
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides Will check it out. Thanks again.
Absolutely livid that I’ve been thinking the Brits were talking about a specific material for basing. Took me until now you guys meant literal, actual drywall filler. Fml.
Yeah man
Spackle you guys call it right?
@@BrushstrokePaintingGuides I mean some people call it sparkle, some people call it mud, some people call it filler.
Regardless. Thanks for the tutorial. Subbed.
Thanks man
Yeah, we call it filler in UK.
I used the term spackle too, cos I know it confuses a lot of people Worldwide
I built the wrong flocking utensil 😅
flock boxes are the best hobby purchase you can make
I mean i love the base but i dont have a static grass aplicator so i guess fuck me right
No, definitely not. The idea of the video was to show how I achieved the grass. Not a lot of gamers know grass applicators exist, so it’s a chance to introduce it. For sure you can create grass bases using shop bought tufts, if you don’t want to buy an applicator. I would say though, it youre planning on having grass bases and terrain, then an applicator is a good investment. You can save a fortune on tufts because you can make them yourself with the applicator. I’ve flocked display boards and dioramas with mine. One of the best bits of hobby kit I’ve bought.
Brushstroke Painting Guides thanks man. Didnt mean to sound like a dick, i really think this video is great. Ill definitely look into getting one of those applicators.
That Zenathal was a waste of paint.
True, it didn’t add anything to the paint job. I use it mainly to help details show up on camera. The aim of this video is more the introduction and demonstration of a static applicator for the flock, as many people are completely unaware of their existence
Terrible guide, especially for new players, utterly complicated, requires bloody machines, jesus dude I don't wanna land on moon, I just wanna put some grass on my base.
I’m sorry you found the process overly complicated.
I made this video to answer people asking how I make my bases, because they couldn’t get theirs looking the same.
Unfortunately, if you’re wanting to achieve grass bases where the grass is all standing upright you’ll need to apply it using a static charge. It’s why the product is called “static grass”.
I’m not claiming this is the only way to do it, simply how I get the results I do :)