The Imperial Shipyards

Imperial Creative Engineering => Dioramas => Topic started by: hangarbay94 on September 22, 2010, 08:54:54 AM

Title: Hangarbay's Dioramas
Post by: hangarbay94 on September 22, 2010, 08:54:54 AM
Hi everyone, I hope you are all keeping well!

It's been a while since I've produced a new diorama, but for anyone who's been watching the Custom vehicle forum, you'll know that I've been customising an assortment of Alliance craft recently. Well that's not all I've been doing, there are a pile of custom figures and droids all waiting to be posted here, but I want to finish off the whole project before showing off the fruits of my labour.

For those of you who have been following the X-Wing Alliance Web-Comic, you'll know that the last chapter saw our hero Ace Azzameen get into some serious bother. In fact it is a dark time for the Alliance too as they've just suffered the defeat at Hoth and the Empire are relentless in their search for their remaining fleet. Well, without giving too much away, let's just say that in a short while the story moves away from the Azzameen Family base and into the heart of the conflict between the Empire and the Alliance, and in doing so I need to create some new dioramas and sets for the story. One of the sets is the Calamari Cruiser Liberty's main Hangar Bay.
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/mc04.jpg)

Many of you may have realised by now, that I take simplest approach to creating my dioramas, I mainly use sheets of Mount Board and decals to create large sets as it's far less expensive than using polystyrene sheets and scratchbuilding. I also need to fold everything away for storage, as having a 5ft diorama spread out in our living room is not going to go down too well with my long suffering Star Wars wife. Most of the time creating the dio is spent on the PC designing the decal sheets, once they have been done the whole thing usually takes a couple of nights to put together.

This diorama is possibly going to be my last large one so it needs to have some extra ooomph, I want to create more wall greeblies and ledges, so there will be some foam-core attachments fixed on using Velcro. I will also make this available for everyone to download, so anyone can create it if they've got a printer. So watch this space everyone, cos the Liberty is on it's way!!!

For those of you who haven't seen what can be created using mountboard, here is a refresher...the images below are the other hangars and sets I've created using the Mount-board. Everything you see below folds totally flat and is still stored behind my kids sofa in their playroom. The Death Star and Yavin 4 are actually the same diorama, the panels simply reverse.
Death Star
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/NowsourchanceGo.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/Shoottheblastdoors2.jpg)
Azzameen base
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Misc%20Star%20Wars%20Customs%20and%20Dioramas/Hangar3.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Misc%20Star%20Wars%20Customs%20and%20Dioramas/Hangar2.jpg)
Yavin4
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Misc%20Star%20Wars%20Customs%20and%20Dioramas/Hangar4.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Misc%20Star%20Wars%20Customs%20and%20Dioramas/Hangar5.jpg)
Coruscant Underworld
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Misc%20Star%20Wars%20Customs%20and%20Dioramas/Hangar6.jpg)
Palpatine's Holochamber (Coruscant)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Misc%20Star%20Wars%20Customs%20and%20Dioramas/Hangar7.jpg)




Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: CloneSniper78 on September 23, 2010, 01:45:23 AM
Jules your dios are awesome. I have to tell you I miss the DarkChild Chronicles. Anyway, keep up the good work my friend.
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: Clonehead on September 23, 2010, 02:41:54 AM
A bigger better diorama? Jules, I know better than to suggest that you couldn't top what you have already shown us because you do it time and time again. I can only sit back and enjoy the ride.
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on September 23, 2010, 03:52:28 AM
Ohhhhh, the anticipation has me drooling! I agree with with Clint, this will be a mind blower as you always out do yourself with each new project.
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: hangarbay94 on September 23, 2010, 12:32:57 PM
Thanks very much guys. Luke, you'll like this one as this tally's along nicely with your Rogue Squadron customs.
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: Phatty on September 23, 2010, 12:54:23 PM
I can't wait to see this one, Jules!
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: DocOutlands on September 23, 2010, 03:21:40 PM
Color me giddy and we ain't even SEEN it yet!
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on September 23, 2010, 06:35:02 PM
Jules I know man! I am wanting to box up my crew with the Big Mother Trucker and send them to you just to see them in this thing along with all your new ships!
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: hangarbay94 on September 24, 2010, 04:55:07 AM
Folks I've finished creating all of the decals for the diorama/playset.

Here is the floor plan, I have tried to copy the pattern shown in the original matte painting shown above...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/CruiserFloor.jpg)

The floor will use up 20 A4 sticker sheets, so it's not quite my largest as the Azzameen home base is 25 A4 sheets.

And here are some of the wall panels...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/Back%20Wall%20-%20Lower%20Section/W2WallDecal1.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/Back%20Wall%20-%20Lower%20Section/W2WallDecal6.jpg)

I've taken Niub Niub's idea of decal sheets and upped the game a little by giving the decals a more realistic look.
 
The rear wall will be 3 A4 sheets high x 4 wide and the main long wall will be 3 x 5wide. There will also be a ridge section jutting out 1.5 x 1...sorry if that all sounds gobbledeygook, you'll get it when I put it all together.

There will also be a door and corridor section, just to add a bit more depth to the diorama. Most of the dio will be flat pack except for the ridge section, which will be made from foamcore. It will attach to the main structure by Velcro.

So far I've used about half an ink cartridge set £30 and have purchased a pack of 100 A4 sticker sheets and 5 x mount boards, total spend about £45.00. The whole diorama will be available to download free at www.xwa-webcomic.com for members only. Along with the decal sheets will be easy to follow plans for decal locations, so sign up now, and check out the web-comic and other cool stuff while you are there. .

More updates soon as I should have this baby built on Saturday night.
Tools needed: Roll of Duck tape, sharp craft knife, scissors, hot glue gun, cutting board.



 


Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: CloneCommander Buy on September 24, 2010, 09:31:31 AM
That is awsome Hangerbay. Can not wait to see it finished. I'll have to go to your web site and check it out.
Those are really cool!
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on September 24, 2010, 10:29:16 AM
Oh my! That looks just right Jules! I wonder how much it would cost me to get this printed on vinyl at my local sign shop? That may be overkill but man would it be extra krispy. When he got a new printer 3 yrs ago the first thing he printed was a Vader with lava behind it 2' x 4'. He knew I was a SW fan so he gave it to me. Back on track now, this is sweet Jules and I will be eagerly awaiting your post over the weekend when you get her done.
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: hemble on September 24, 2010, 03:05:33 PM
Jules your photoshop work is the most impressive around mate, the details on them look so 3D realistic keep up teh amazing work.

Ron
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: LostBoy on September 26, 2010, 10:20:28 AM
Is it possible that I can use the wall dacals for a further project?

I like the design.
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: hangarbay94 on September 26, 2010, 12:16:50 PM
Lost boy, I'll be posting the decals along with instructions on how to build the diorama on my web site www.xwa-webcomic.com (http://www.xwa-webcomic.com). If you join you'll get an e-mail notification as soon as it's posted.

Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: LostBoy on September 26, 2010, 12:25:22 PM
I did!

Thank you for the link, there are a lot of great decals!

Great!!!
Title: Re: Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar (X-Wing Alliance) W.I.P
Post by: hangarbay94 on September 26, 2010, 05:32:59 PM
Ok folks, here is the Cruiser Liberty Hangar Dio.

The shots below show it being assembled.
Here it is folded up
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio2.jpg)
First the base gets laid out
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio1.jpg)
Then the walls
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio3.jpg)
and finally the ridge section, which is held on with velcro
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio4.jpg)

Now it's ready for vehicles and figures:
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio5.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio6.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio7.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/dio10.jpg)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: Clonehead on September 26, 2010, 07:39:09 PM
Yep, you have done it again, Jules! Man, you are truly the maker of dreams, buddy. Those shots look like they are screen captures from one of the films.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: Phatty on September 26, 2010, 07:42:01 PM
WOW Jules!  Not only is that massive in size, but in detail as well!  There are so many options to this thing!  So cool, Jules!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: hemble on September 26, 2010, 09:31:03 PM
Bloody sensational work Jules, again you show us what a talented guy you are.

Ron
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: LostBoy on September 27, 2010, 12:06:39 AM
Looks great.

I like the deco. Impressive Work on this size!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: wraithnine on September 27, 2010, 12:15:25 AM
Wow mate once again I'm blown away!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on September 27, 2010, 03:14:06 AM
Thanks so much guys, I'm glad you like what I've been up to. I held off from showing you all of this stuff before I had it all ready, so I was really excited posting it.

Here are some final un-photoshopped images:
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/Hangar4.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/Hangar2.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/Hangar1.jpg)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: hemble on September 27, 2010, 03:31:07 AM
Photoshop or not this is still exceptional work Jules.

Ron
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on September 27, 2010, 03:56:29 AM
OH MY! What a beautiful sight to wake up to! Jules, you are the master! I must print out those deals and make one of these for me and Jax to play in. I really likethe crane or whatever it is with the arm on it beside the X-Wing. It would be cool to see a few more things like that in there to give us more background fodder to look at. Any how this thing looks massive and really breathtaking! I bow to your genius and creativeness! Now let me go look at these beautiful images again! ;D
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: 110clones on September 27, 2010, 10:54:44 AM
veryy cool
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: CaptainLux on September 27, 2010, 11:28:33 AM
woow and woooow man, that looks sweet!, amazing job!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Hangar completed+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 08, 2010, 04:03:27 AM
Continuing from the hangar I now need to create the inner corridors, a pilots mess, the briefing room and other miscellaneous areas of the Cruisers' Liberty and Defiance.

As there are very limited images available showing the interior of a Calamari Cruiser I am having to use artistic licence. I'm going to assume that only the briefing room and other areas of importance are white as the move set suggests, and am going for a more used look for the rest of the interior.

As with all of my dio's most of this is made of card and foam core, using decal sheets to give the impression of detail however, due to it's complexity I think I'm going to have to scratch build the briefing room using polystyrene sheet.

Here is last nights work...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/cal2.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/cal3.jpg)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: wraithnine on December 08, 2010, 04:12:56 AM
lookin superb jules  i cant wait to see this completed !
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on December 08, 2010, 04:59:36 AM
Looking awesome Jules! Your artistic licence is approved! I can't wait to see more of this come together!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: Art deWhill on December 08, 2010, 05:11:30 AM
fantastic, Jules, I like this style a lot :)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: Tamer on December 08, 2010, 08:21:52 AM
Sweet! I can't wait to see this in action!

Jules you are a graphic genious.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: Phatty on December 08, 2010, 08:52:32 AM
I'm digging it big time!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: beige-4 on December 08, 2010, 09:59:40 AM
lovin that corridor!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: DocOutlands on December 08, 2010, 02:32:30 PM
How did I miss this??

HOW DID I MISS THIS???????

If I were prone to such things, an apoplectic (apocalyptic? ;D ) fit would be in order.  Maybe a r1bb1t-rave, even!  No, DEFINITELY a r1bb1t-rave!  AND a fit!

But alas, I am not prone to such, so I shall simply say thank you and loot the XWA site of gorgeous work to be printed out once I am able to feed my laser printer again.  Then I shall built.  And build.  AND BUILD!!!!!

If you are so inclined, more pics of your corridor/briefing-room construction would not go amiss.

Genius.  Sheer, artistic genius.

(ok, how does the A4 size compare to our US sizes?)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 08, 2010, 04:24:26 PM
Thanks Doc, what wonderful feedback!

Your query about A4 caught me by surprise, I assumed that the size was standard globally. Anyhow, usually if you print a JPEG from Windows Picture Viewer you have the option to resize an image to fit the medium, I'd try that route first.

Jules.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: DocOutlands on December 08, 2010, 06:29:56 PM
Yeah, that was going to be my first approach - "best fit to page" or whatever it is.  I know I see you guys on the other side of the pond use A4 in reference to paper a lot.  I'm just assuming it is standard 8.5"x11" "letter" as we call it, but me and my assumptions always get in trouble!

Something I am going to experiment with when I can restock my toner cartridge is giving the panels some actual 3-dimensional texture by printing a label out and attaching it to a sheet of craft-foam, then cutting out details like sub-panels and gluing them in their proper places on the "flats"  to create actual thickness changes.  I've got some other ideas perking about, as well.  You know I can never leave well enough alone!

Are you planning to put together some hallway panels that are lighter in color than the hanger-bay walls?  Of course, since it is a jpeg, I can mess about with the colors myself - but that's like letting a child embellish the Mona Lisa with a fist full of crayons!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: dana.raye.smith on December 08, 2010, 08:49:49 PM
This is another truly amazing piece HB94.
The detail and size itself is intimidating.
I have tried a few small backdrops and was never really pleased with the outcome...I copied existing stuff like the figure backdrop from the Boba Fett Slave1 vehicle set onto pieces of A4 sticker sheets and placed them onto standard posterboard cut and configured in the same fashion as the backdrop itself. Poster board is real flimsy in itself. And i didnt notice that the printer had been set to black only nd made it all a dreary light grey.
I lack the photoshop skills and time to do this on my own right now, but you keep giving me reasons to try again and again.
And for Doc, they have the A4 sticker sheets at office depot or staples and just about everywhere... even WM if you are lucky... ussually in packs of 25 or more.
I am off to check out your XWA site .... and thanks again.
Truly inspiring.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty Update+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 09, 2010, 03:17:21 AM
Thanks so much guys. This X-Wing project is taking over again, I can feel it!!!!

Last night I made a large door, so now the first part of the corridor set is complete. Next I'm going to make a stepped section, so that I can get some interesting shots looking up and down into sections of the ship. All of the parts separate so I can use them to create different locations. All these decal sheets will be available on the X-Wing Alliance web site when I'm done.
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/briefingroom12.jpg)

And here are the pieces complete with Photoshop lighting effects...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/deck12.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/deck122.jpg)

Now it's onto the briefing room itself..this is going to be a really hard project, it'll certainly involve a similar amount of work as with the Endor Platform I made. I found this hat box and thought it would be ideal as the bones for the diorama. More WIP's as I progress.
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/briefingroom1.jpg)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: ScreamingSamuraiStudio on December 09, 2010, 06:41:57 AM
WOW..
   Those are some great corridors you've got. Do you have any video tutorials on how to make the door arches?
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Tamer on December 09, 2010, 10:55:15 AM
Oh yeah, time for a front page update. Jules it is looking great!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: DocOutlands on December 09, 2010, 01:23:28 PM
**THUD**


Jaw, meet Floor - Floor, Jaw.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: hannsfartknocker on December 09, 2010, 02:34:30 PM
sweet diorama man
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: CloneSniper78 on December 09, 2010, 04:36:25 PM
Awesome Jules!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: artilarytrooper321 on December 09, 2010, 05:09:42 PM
that look really cool  swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk swalk
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: CaptainLux on December 09, 2010, 07:11:40 PM
Awesome corridors jules!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: TheCloneCommander on December 09, 2010, 07:30:36 PM
they look very nice indeed, beautiful photography also mate!!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Darth Depressis on December 10, 2010, 07:59:06 AM
awesome sets man, hats off to you. but don't you love that feeling of your
project taking back over...
(http://i370.photobucket.com/albums/oo150/rinmorissette/ravager13.jpg)
i know i do, WIP of the opening shot of Memoirs9....
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 11, 2010, 01:49:44 AM
Niiiice, love your camera angles, and you've got the scale perfrectly!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Clonehead on December 11, 2010, 05:03:44 AM
Very convincing, my friend. I too, feel your excitement. Can't wait to see the briefing room and the mess hall.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: CaptainLux on December 11, 2010, 12:28:46 PM
Woow this is a really cool image man!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: SITHHAPPENS on December 11, 2010, 01:48:09 PM
can't find one thing i like about it because i love it all !!!!!!!!!!! awesome job wish i had room for that
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 11, 2010, 06:29:24 PM
Thanks guys...

I've managed to do some work on the Briefing Room...

I've shaped the main area, constructed the floor and one of the bench sections. My version differes slightly from the original as the box is not large anough to fit it all in, so there will be some Hasbroesque rescaling going on...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/WIP1.jpg)

To allow for lots of camera angles I'll be creating a rear wall that will come away, that way I can take images of the commander on his podium facing the pilots, then with the wall removed I can get good shots of the pilots facing their commanding officer...The rear door leading into the room also acts as a good position for the camera looking towards the podium.
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/WIP2.jpg)

I'll also be making an upper deck. The deck section will have a balcony and the ship's bridge where the Captain can look down on the Briefing Room, just like in the film set.
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/WIP3.jpg)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on December 11, 2010, 06:40:16 PM
Very interesting! I like your hat box trick! It is shaping up nicely and I can't wait to see this one come together!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: wraithnine on December 11, 2010, 06:45:40 PM
jules i really like the way this is going  mate ...does your creativity have any limits ....i seriously doubt it my friend
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: CaptainLux on December 11, 2010, 07:19:37 PM
Jules this is looking really cool, i really want to see when its finished!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 11, 2010, 07:31:25 PM
Thanks guys...I've just procured a part that will make an excellent central holo projector table....
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/B1lsJwEWkKGrHqIOKnEE5hRShkBMf08i8yuQ_12.jpg)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Phatty on December 11, 2010, 07:46:03 PM
Yes, that will definitely make for a fantastic center piece for the room.  Your lines are incredibly clean from where I can see, and I can't wait to see this take further shape!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Jedi Minstrel on December 12, 2010, 07:52:19 AM
I was at Target yesterday, saw a hat box, and thought about your latest project.  I wish I had more room in the house for dios.  It's bad enough just with figures.  Can't wait to see your finished product, though.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: DocOutlands on December 12, 2010, 02:41:32 PM
Thanks guys...I've just procured a part that will make an excellent central holo projector table....
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/B1lsJwEWkKGrHqIOKnEE5hRShkBMf08i8yuQ_12.jpg)

Ok, it's the top to an anti-infantry tower from Hoth...  Is it cast from the old Kenner toy or is it a custom-made master?  Is it fig-scale or something smaller?  Where'd you find it? Are there other neat goodies?  etc etc

I'm jealous.  ;D

That briefing-room is off to a great start - good-looking design and well-considered layout.  Have you tried camera-shots to make sure you don't have gaps?  Oh, wait - you are the photoshop wizard, so gaps are a non-issue...  ;D
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 13, 2010, 02:39:53 AM
Thanks Doc,

I don't think the part of from a turret, but as I bought it off a Spanish guy I'm not sure what the translation meant...It is to scale however and it will be a great centre console.

Here is the latest update:
I've got the main section sorted, all I need to do is put a second skin on the walls just to smooth out all of the glue lines. I'm most likely to fix decal panels onto the walls rather than paint them, that way they'll be more consistent with the other sets I've created. Plus decal panels will give me the ability to add details that would otherwise be impossible to create.

I've now run out of materials, so I'm off to the hobby shop later today. I've got to build the upper deck and the commanders podium.

With regard to camera angles, I've found that close up shots with blurred backgrounds look the most stunning and lifelike when converted to the web-comic format, so for the most part the set will be blurred in the background. There will also be wide shots showing the pilots and I'll use the upper deck for the Captain and his crew...Also, as you say, photoshop can work wonders.

Here's the latest images...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Calamari%20Cruiser%20Hanger/IMG_5703-1.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/IMG_5705.jpg)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: TheCloneCommander on December 13, 2010, 03:52:06 AM
thats is looking pretty darn sweet mate!!

i was looking at your last shot with the pilot sitting down and i thought to my self..." oh cool he fits, perfect height" then "uh oh there is no room for the guy's legs who'll be sitting behind him.... wait Jules will just have the guy at the back stand up... der 
then i was thinking that you should have all the pilots/personal stand up around the 3 levels of the set, that way it would look even more crowded in the briefing room, for photographing.

brilliant work Jules looks like the kids will have a ball with this when your done with it  ;D
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: beige-4 on December 13, 2010, 06:17:25 AM
this is awesome ! hangarbay 94 , you are the god of dioramas
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on December 13, 2010, 06:21:51 AM
Man that is looking good! I know it is a WIP shot but this is really shaping up nicely. The piece for the center console looks perfect!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: DocOutlands on December 13, 2010, 07:51:38 AM
Thanks Doc,

I don't think the part of from a turret, but as I bought it off a Spanish guy I'm not sure what the translation meant...It is to scale however and it will be a great centre console.


Ok, I'm intrigued!  Is he an established vendor?  What else does he carry?
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: Tamer on December 13, 2010, 08:26:38 AM
Wow, looking good there Jules. I like your briefing set up immensely!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: FialaFernbrugg on December 13, 2010, 09:26:30 AM
thanks a million for the Calamari Cruiser decals Jules
I used a lot of your "hangarbay" decals for my Revell dios and I'm sure I can use the Liberty Hangar decals on some future projects.
The Briefing Room looks fabulous. I can't wait to see the end result.


Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - Hangar, Corridors and Briefing Room+++
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 14, 2010, 04:36:09 AM
It's not quite finished and it is a bit rough round the edges, but it's just a set, not a proper diorama so it's good enough for photography...I still need to make the commander's podium, the centre console, the upper deck railings, some chairs and a ceiling greebly...

Here are some test images along with two shots showing the set from above...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/FINAL2.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/FINAL3.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/FINAL1.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/FINAL4.jpg)

(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/WIP5.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/WIP4.jpg)



Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: Art deWhill on December 14, 2010, 04:45:46 AM
the set is looking great already and more than appropriate for the photoshooting. All errors - if there are any - can be fixed digitaly, just like the film industry is used to ;)
fantastic work, my friend!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: wraithnine on December 14, 2010, 05:10:02 AM
jules that looks damn wicked!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on December 14, 2010, 05:58:53 AM
Jules has pulled the ol' hat trick again! haha This is one awesome looking set! The smaller size looks great and also will work just fine. I love the removable wall for photographing the set. It is really top shelf work and the figures look awesome in the environment. I LOVE the pic with the astromech tooling around outside the door! SOooooooo well done!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: Darth Revenge on December 14, 2010, 08:03:36 AM
Great !  8)
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: CaptainLux on December 14, 2010, 04:21:11 PM
I love this one jules, looks so amazing!!!

Nice job man!
 ;D
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: ScreamingSamuraiStudio on December 14, 2010, 05:31:05 PM
Another amazing set piece for you.
   I'm amazed at the amount of depth that you get with your sets. My jaw just about hit the dog on the forehead when I saw the first pic and got a look into the room behind. I don't know how you do it, but it looks great.
  I love how you're pretty much just skinning the hat box with the wall details. Never would have thought of doing that way.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: CloneSniper78 on December 15, 2010, 12:27:31 AM
Dang HB, you always amaze me... :o
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 15, 2010, 06:23:50 AM
As always, all of your comments are most welcome...it is both supportive and inspirational.

Thank you, everyone!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: Tamer on December 15, 2010, 06:50:10 AM
Flying meatballs Jules, that briefing room is wonderful. Daggone you make me envious that you can just whip up stuff like this. Great work.

Wow, the next chapter is going to be spectacular.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: Psyclone on December 15, 2010, 11:13:46 AM
Briefing room turned out really well.  I actually like the scaled down size to it.  Very cool using the hat box as a foundation.  Awesome, as usual.
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: SITHHAPPENS on December 15, 2010, 01:56:38 PM
that is amazing simply amazing love the idea of a hat box hats of to you !!!!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: beige-4 on December 16, 2010, 01:32:47 PM
Flying meatballs Jules, that briefing room is wonderful. Daggone you make me envious that you can just whip up stuff like this. Great work.

Wow, the next chapter is going to be spectacular.

flying meatballs indeed !
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: artilarytrooper321 on December 16, 2010, 03:45:38 PM
really awesom
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: jenki87 on December 16, 2010, 08:06:11 PM
lucas shuld hire you for a stop-motion animation series xD
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: RebelAce on December 17, 2010, 08:15:31 AM
This is brilliant!  It's amazing how something so simple can be so effective.  I would have never thought of something like this until today.  Way to think outside the "hat" box...  My jokes aren't really that good, unlike your briefing room!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: Jedi Minstrel on December 17, 2010, 09:53:13 PM
AMAZING!
Title: Re: +++Calamari Cruiser Liberty - BRIEFING ROOM UPDATE --
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 18, 2010, 06:50:34 AM
Guys, thanks for the overwhelming response to my diorama, it's great logging on and seeing lots of new comments, they are all very much appreciated...
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 21, 2010, 07:03:41 PM
Well I'm just about there in terms of preparing for the first chapter of Season 2. These containers are the set fillers you'll see populating various locations around the Cruiser Liberty...
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Imperial%20Shipyards%20Stuff/SF1.jpg)
(http://i683.photobucket.com/albums/vv191/hangarbay94/Imperial%20Shipyards%20Stuff/SF0.jpg)
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: wraithnine on December 21, 2010, 07:20:37 PM
hot damn!     buckle up boys!!    she's a'coming! ;D
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: Clonehead on December 21, 2010, 07:35:43 PM
My mouth is a watering with these latest images, Jules!

I love those containers.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: CaptainLux on December 21, 2010, 08:20:50 PM
looks so great!
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on December 21, 2010, 09:02:38 PM
HEY!!  I know those containers!!  Those are from Hirst Arts molds - and I have those molds and have made quite a few of them.

Oh and RIGHT ON!!  Those are fabulous shots!
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: Luke Sprywalker on December 21, 2010, 09:08:30 PM
I am sirring here with a Joker size grin on my face, aparently I actualy said oh god yes out loud because the wife looks over and says are you watching porn? I said no and was able to share your images with her. She says you guys are amazing making all these things. So back to me, I am thrilled seeing what you have been working on. I was looking at the images several times trying to figure out where you got those boxes. Then I noticed the angle of the box beside the round red pieces and the boxes are flat. So now I think you have printed out more decals and mouted them on wooden cubes. But several pieces look like the pieces are 3-d, what ever you have done they look great! Next, you know I need to know how you made the red drums. Pretty please? Then in the far backgroud, do I see a green yogurt shipping container? The yellow piece with the computer screens and things look very interesting. I love everything you have created to fill the hangar. The pics look great and man am I stoked to see the rest when you are ready.



Ah, Doc posted just before me I see the answer to the containers. ;)
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on December 21, 2010, 09:10:26 PM
Spry, give me a few days and start watching your mail box.  You'll get some of those containers - boxes & barrels both.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: Art deWhill on December 21, 2010, 10:55:40 PM
whooo-hoooo..... ready to read :)
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: beige-4 on December 22, 2010, 06:58:17 AM
nice containers !
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: Tamer on December 22, 2010, 07:02:29 AM
Cool deal Jules. I do like the containers too.

Nice of you to send L.E. a few Doc!

Wohooo! Alliance is getting nearer and nearer!
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on December 22, 2010, 07:16:40 AM
I would list those in my parts thread, but a couple of guys I know already offer them and do a much better job than I currently do, and they do it cheaply - Itar's Workshop and Nalomi's Workshop.  Both are *great* guys to work with and have given me help in my own casting quest.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: Tamer on December 22, 2010, 07:22:01 AM
Itar's Workshop and Nalomi's Workshop. 

Any chance you could start a thread in the reference section where you list hyperlinks and trusted sources you have worked with? I guess the online store section would work good, but I bet the customs guys here could come up with a heck of a list and then you guys could just use it when you need to go somewhere to look.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on December 22, 2010, 07:59:00 AM
I can sure do that.  I'll start a thread over in R&R, as that seems the more appropriate place - online stores feels more like the place for dedicated SW sources/deals.

Actually, I was just looking at the pieces I got from Itar most recently.  I really need to paint them up and post them for viewing - at the very least, primer them up.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: damonsfast on December 22, 2010, 10:45:35 AM
WOW great setup, i wish i had the space, i cant wait to see more

ps where can i get some containers?
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: CloneSniper78 on December 22, 2010, 10:48:27 AM
Those containers are sweet. You know I love all your work.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: hangarbay94 on December 22, 2010, 01:49:14 PM
Jesus Guys!!! calm down, calm down.... post a few containers and you all go crazy!!! when I release a chapter of X-Wing Alliance I get less feedback!

Ok, now I've calmed down, thanks everyone for the feedback, but I'm a little surprised that no-one seemed to notice what was in the background of the 1st image...

Anyhow I bought the containers here: http://www.antenocitisworkshop.com/ (http://www.antenocitisworkshop.com/) I buy all my scratch building materials there...I'm glad my little update caused such a stir, thanks for the feedback guys, you are a special bunch...mad, but special!
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on December 22, 2010, 02:44:34 PM
What, the green ARC-170?  Can't drool on it until it is in focus.  The neat crane-droid?  Yeah, we want the recipie.  The X-Wing looks awesome, but you've spoiled us - we EXPECT jaw-dropping, drool-enticing ships from you!!!  ;D

Thanks for that link - they've got some NOICE-looking stuff there!
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: beige-4 on December 23, 2010, 06:56:38 AM
ahhh now i see that arc !! nice ship
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: hemble on January 19, 2011, 03:20:18 AM
Jules always love what you come up with mate and the containers look excellent can't wait to see what you come up with next.

Ron
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: darthdaddy on February 19, 2011, 07:35:51 PM
Hangarbay94 has been added to "CUSTOMS I WISH I OWNED"

http://customsforthekid.blogspot.com/2011/02/hangarbay94-added-to-customs-i-wish-i.html (http://customsforthekid.blogspot.com/2011/02/hangarbay94-added-to-customs-i-wish-i.html)
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: finn on May 12, 2011, 01:17:17 PM
Hangerbay if you are looking for chairs that look like they belong in the Star Wars Universe I ran across something that I feel will work out pretty well.
In my local TRU they had the Star Trek toys from the newest movie on clearance and I grabbed one to test out the bridge chairs that came with the figures and the playset.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DarthSinister on May 12, 2011, 01:31:41 PM
I have a project on hold at the moment using the very same chairs that finn is showing. They are for a friend over at RebelScum. This will be one of the first things I finish when I start up again.

The idea was to cast the chair for multiple copies, but I can't just stop there. What I'm doing is making them look more Star Warsish and raising them up a little higher.  I'll let you know when I get back to them.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: finn on May 12, 2011, 07:01:08 PM
Yea I was thinking about trying to cast them as well. I was also thinking about getting the Star Ick bridge playset so I can get the command chair and see if it is any good for Thrawn.

How hard could casting a chair be really? lol
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on May 14, 2011, 04:20:22 PM
Quote from: finn
How hard could casting a chair be really? lol

You'd be surprised...
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: finn on May 14, 2011, 05:10:15 PM
Oh I am sure it is pretty damn hard or at least annoying to get it to turn out looking right. I was being, or at least trying to be, funny.
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on May 14, 2011, 05:34:55 PM
Sorry - I've been casting for the last two days and have had a headache all day today.  And part of it is from trying to get a "simple" piece molded so that it casts well!!  No luck yet...  grrrrrrrr
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: finn on May 14, 2011, 07:37:23 PM
is there a good resource I can look at online that will show the basic steps to casting?
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: DocOutlands on May 14, 2011, 08:27:00 PM
go to http://www.alumilite.com and look for their references section

Also, youtube has lots of vids - do a search on "resin casting" and you'll likely be overwhelmed.  One of them *might* be mine...

Eh, go to the Youtube Channels forum here on the 'Yards and look up my thread.  I think I put a link to my vid in there...
Title: Re: Hangarbay's X-Wing Alliance Dioramas and Sets
Post by: Tamer on May 15, 2011, 07:51:32 AM
sweet video DD. On the front page.