April 2016

Kmart sends word on May the 4th Promotion!
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 29 2016
"MAY THE 4TH BE WITH YOU: New Star Wars Exclusive Action Figure at Kmart

Star Wars Day is fast approaching and Kmart is celebrating the fan holiday by introducing its newest Star Wars collectible action figure: Star Wars: The Force Awakens Black Series Rey Figure Exclusive.

The exclusive Rey figure features a Starkiller Base that is similar to Kmart’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens Black Series Kylo Ren Figure Exclusive that was released last year in advance of the Star Wars: The Force Awakens premiere.

While sold separately, both exclusive figures’ Starkiller bases interlock, replicating the epic snowy woods battle scene between Rey and Kylo Ren in the Star Wars: The Force Awakens film.

Far-far-away fans and collectors alike can snatch up the new exclusive Rey figure in-store or online at Kmart.com beginning on May 4, 2016 for $24.99. The exclusive Kylo Ren figure is currently available for $24.99 in-store and online at Kmart.com.

Kmart also has Star Wars merchandise from home décor to apparel, footwear and more so the whole family can join the force."

Folks I am happy to report that both of these are in-stock!

Starchaser gives us a background character...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 29 2016
"Skarim, a Bandalog traveler: the Bandalog are a little known (and rarely encountered) species that inhabit one of the small moons, Magin, that orbit the giant barren world of Zenis-D right at the edge of the Unknown Region. Bandalog are a long-lived and slow-paced species that generally practice a philosophy of intentional simplicity. This has led to most who encounter the Bandalog seeing them as no threat and has allowed the Bandalog to live at peace for eons. In truth, the Bandalog have very advanced technology (like Skarim's vibronic utilitool), but are non-violent. Bandalog are deliberate and thoughtful and most view themselves as philosopher-poets, not leaving their home planet. Skarim was chosen, because he is young (three hundred years old) and more adventurous than most, to travel to Bimmisaari and other university worlds to explore the philosophical ideas of the rest of the galaxy and report back to his home world what he has discovered."

Our Verse sorely needs characters like this. It was nice to see an update!

Jetpack Blues updates us on his 1313 Custom Mando...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 29 2016
"Progress is slow, which isn't a shock with a baby. But he is coming along. My current issue is, I can't find a good way to attach the soft good belt straps together. I may try a soldering iron as glue doesn't seem to work."

It sure does look pretty spot on to me.

JDeck shares more SW Model News...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 29 2016
"I'm happy with the new lineup. The A-wing is awesome, and it'll be out next month. At 133mm the "actual" a-wing is 9.6m= 31.5 feet a large estimate, but 10 yards seems right. The new x-wing doesn't have a listed scale. I did the math based on wookieepedia it is very close to 1/144, actually 1/145.348, close darn enough, less than 1% out of scale, so that's awesome.

I absolutely love the Star destroyer, I very rarely say that about anything. I'm no Star Destroyer expert, but it looks to me like the Star Destroyer Avenger. Its only about 111mm or 4.37", But tons of detail. Scale is about 1/14,414. Like Yoda said "Size matters not...judge me by my size, do you?" They're doing sort of a non specific scale pocket-kit type thing, but very good detail.

They're up for sale if you want them, Star Destroyer $19.00, on Amazon. I always wait until available on Prime, ends up being faster to wait sometimes. Also if you look on Bandai's website the suggested retail is 648 Japanese Yen, which comes out to about $6.01 including 8% tax. So I'd wait a week or two, till the market levels off. New kits are always inflated, people are trying to make a killing off of american buyers since Bandai is banned. In a couple of weeks the prices will drop, and it'll be on Prime, which is great.

Star Destroyer

X-wing

Of course 1/12 Kylo Ren is coming in the next day or so. He looks pretty cool. Again, I'd wait a while, unless you live in Japan."

Pretty nice advice from a guy who knows his models!

Anovos announces last call on the Driver and TIE PIlot!
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 29 2016
"As we approach final production on the Star Wars AT-AT Driver™ costume ensemble and helmet accessory, we will close the pre-order window to ensure adequate stock is available for shipping. Order by April 30th to ensure you won't miss out on this costume from ‎The Empire Strikes Back‬!

As we approach final production on the Star Wars TIE Fighter Pilot™ costume ensemble and helmet accessory, we will close the pre-order window to ensure adequate stock is available for shipping. Order by April 30th to ensure you won't miss out on this costume!"

I highly recommend the Driver Outfit. To me it looks pretty accurate. Its not perfect, but daggone close! ‪

Meet the Freemaker Family | LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 29 2016
"Introducing new heroes and villains to the LEGO Star Wars universe, the animated television series "LEGO Star Wars: The Freemaker Adventures" will premiere MONDAY, JUNE 20 (10:00 a.m. EST) on Disney XD. Set between the events of The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, the action comedy series follows the Freemakers, a family of sibling scavengers who operate a salvage and repair shop in space. The series will also feature familiar characters and locations from the filmed Star Wars saga."

Big Bad Toy Store lists great new Star Wars Items!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 28 2016
STAR WARS BLACK SERIES – DARTH VADER
After Darth Vader and Luke join forces to defeat the Emperor, Vader asks Luke to help him remove the mask that covers his face so he can look upon his son with his own eyes. This highly articulated 6” figure of Darth Vader includes a removable helmet and his light saber. $22.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=HAS23843&mode=retail

NEW KOTOBUKIYA ARRIVALS
This just in from Kotobukiya….The Star Wars Episode VII Captain Phasma ArtFX+ Statue that features her reflective armor, weapons and cape for $59.99; and the Aliens Alien Warrior ArtFX+ Statue that is crouched on a specially designed display base inspired by the flooring on the Sulaco spaceship for $69.99. These 2 amazing items and more can be found here:
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/list.aspx?list=18619

STAR WARS SIXTH SCALE E-WEB REPEATING BLASTER
Sideshow Collectibles is proud to present the E-Web Heavy Repeating Blaster Sixth Scale weapon. Featuring a portable power generator with conduit hose, the Imperial Army's powerful blaster can be positioned up and down or from side to side, to create a custom display, the perfect complement to any Star Wars Imperial Army trooper sixth scale collection. $159.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=sideshow%20sixth%20scale

STAR WARS MOVIE REALIZATION SANDTROOPER
Tamashii Nations has done it again with the next addition to the Japanese feudal-style Meisho Movie Realization line. Third to join this unique series is the artillery packed Teppo Ashigaru Sandtrooper! The Sandtrooper version comes with two gun powder type rifles and a Japanese katana sword ready for battle. The special backpack is designed with meticulous detail and finished with a rusty look. $89.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=movie%20realization

ACID RAIN LAUREL GHOST 7 (LE 800)
The Laurel is an industrial powered suit with a cockpit and hatch that features a linked mechanical structure between hatch and main engine, and is built to accommodate the included Ghost 7 Pilot. This clear Ghost version comes with a shoulder cannon and grenade launcher and is a limited edition of 800 worldwide. $99.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=ORI10020&mode=retail

NEW EAGLEMOSS PUBLICATIONS
Expand your Eaglemoss Publications collections with these new offerings including 2 The Walking Dead Figures, 2 The Hobbit Motion Picture Figure Collection, 5 Marvel Fact Files including a new Special Edition, 4 Marvel Chess Figures, 2 DC Superhero Best of Figures, the second watch in the new DC Watch Collection, a DC Masterpiece Figure, 3 Star Trek Starships, and the first item in the new Star Trek Dedication Plaque line.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/list.aspx?list=20992

You still have time to submit your entry!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 28 2016
As a part of the awesome Takodana Encounter Set I received I also received the above notice about a cool way to possible have your collection photos used by Hasbro in their booth at SDCC this year.

All you have to do is create a scene using your action figures and vehicles from The Force Awakens and using the hashtags:

#StarWars

#HasbroToyPic

you can submit your images directly from now till May 4th! I liked the idea so much I decided to further up the ante by running a The Force Awakens Challenge Contest for folks who decide to do this. Read the full details and get to creating folks!

Thanks once again the Kelsey and the fine folks at Litzky and Hasbro for this awesome custom creating idea!

Ron Hembling updates his latest Falcon Dio...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 28 2016
"Hi All,

Another little update, I ran out of foam board so I'll have this hold until after the weekend when I go and get some more.

I added the landing gear holding areas and did some frame work for when I add the hull.

Ron"

Talk about one cool project. I can't wait to see it when he gets done.

Panther finishes us some custom Sith...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 28 2016
"Last night before heading out I added another layer of to all, thinking that they were finished until I looked at them this morning. I really have to work on their eyes lol! I had a slight accident with the hooded lord, while putting his cape on, it snapped one of this eyebrow tendrils, to be honest I kind of like that way, gives him a battle scar.

I hope you enjoy the pictures of Lord Scourge, Darth Stro (guess who's body was used lol) and my hooded Sith Lord.

I have included a special photo just for Tamer. As requested, a Sith Temple filled with Sith lords, a bounty hunter and 2 HK-50's."

Why thank you! I do enjoy a good Sith set up and he for sure has one!

BDC41866 gives us more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 28 2016
"Heres a Rebel scout and sharpshooter. More to come..."

I like the new Rebel. I think I may even remember the comic pack the head came from for this new custom.

JDeck keeps us aware of new Models...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 28 2016
"I was reading a rumor of bandai making an a-wing, and death star turret. http://modelkitsreview.com/bandai-1-72-a-wing-starfighter/

The a-wing I believe its a combo pack with a Death Star cannon, since a 1/72 A-wing is so small. Not sure though. Bandai is being very secretive lately, so they might have something good cooking.

I just checked the website, they have tons of new kits on the horizon. http://bandai-hobby.net/sw/jp/schedule/
X-wing, star destroyer, clone trooper a-wing and Poe's T-70."

I always enjoy JDeck's new model news.

Gentle Giant rolls out 2016 Premier Guild Membership...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 28 2016
"2016 Premier Guild Membership Benefits:

Membership is valid from April 2016 through March 31st, 2017.

Members will have an option to choose from 4 Premier Guild Exclusives as their FREE gift! This year we will be offering a selection of 4 Star Wars pieces. You will have the option to purchase the other 3 items.

Members will receive 10% off all their orders of non-exclusive/regular release products placed directly through the Gentle Giant Ltd. Website.

Premier Guild Members will receive a one time use $30 coupon code for use on a purchase of in stock merchandise when they purchase the 2016 PG Membership.

In addition, Premier Guild Members will receive a $10 gift certificate code for use on any on line purchase (including pre-orders) All Pre-Orders for PG Members will be guaranteed. There will be no more conditional or wait listing for our members. (If pre-ordered during the pre-order time frame)

You may one or more PGM 2016 gifts on an order. Please Note: You will be charged separate shipping and handling charges per shipment (not order).

First hand opportunity to purchase any exclusive that we create. This includes all distributor, international, and convention exclusives. While supplies last.

Opportunity to pre-order and post-order San Diego Comic Con Exclusives before anyone else. While supplies last. Limit one per member unless otherwise noted.

We will also be offering exclusive variants and bonus accessories for some of our 2016 releases created just for our PG members!

Option to purchase our exclusive annual Holiday Release.
Receive inside scoop with sneak peeks of upcoming product as well as interviews from behind the scenes. This will include more information than our normal newsletter and website updates."

I am really liking that Ugnaut Two Pack!

Hasbro Toy Shop lists new 6" Black Series Wave...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
I was pleasantly surprised this morning when I logged in and was able to add to my cart and purchase:

Black Series 6" Ahsoka

Black Series 6" ANH Luke Skywalker

Black Series 6" Kanan

I don't look for these to last long so add em to your cart and check out quick!

UPDATE: It looks like Ahsoka is going in and out of stock sporadically so keep trying!

I-am-Boba-Fett is back with an update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
"Here's

a couple of custom Star Wars figures made by me awhile back but just getting around to posting them here.

First up is a custom VURK ENFORCER figure. I was thinking he works for one of the galaxies many crime lords as hired muscle.
This one of a kind figure features:
- Articulated head, arms, and legs.
- Custom resin cast neck area and head.
- Custom blaster pistol included.
- Custom paint work.

This Vurk figure is FOR SALE here:

Up second is a custom SHOZER RESISTANCE TECHNICIAN figure.

This one of a kind figure features:
- Articulated head, arms, shoulders, elbows, waist, and legs.
- Custom resin cast neck and sculpted details.
- Custom paint work.

This Shozer figure is FOR SALE here"

I like the look of both. You can add one or both to your own custom collection!

Darth Daddy finishes up his Cantina Five...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
"Here are all the group shots including some old and new Cantina customs made by either myself or Elias.

"Cantina Denizens"

They look pretty nice to me!

Panther making some custom figures for his Sith Temple!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
"After taking a little time off, I wanted to show you guys some works in progress with my SWTOR customs. After completing my Sith Temple, I took Tamer's suggestion to fill it with Sith. I invested in some Apoxy sculpt and thought it was time to create some true blood Sith's. They are not complete but you can see where I am going with this and for those who play SWTOR as a Jedi Sentinal, you (hopefully) will recognize one of the characters."

Oh yeah, those are gonna be rockin in his new Sith Temple.

Custom Creator stains his floors!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
"So, I tried my hand at coffee staining (first picture), but it wasn't dark enough, so I went with my normal stain. Then I inserted like 50 pins to simulate nails, cut the points off through the bottom of the styro, and then painted each head. I then doused it with my homemade "ash" and may have went overboard. I mean, it's going to be a blown out building, but I feel I kinda ruined all my stain work...lol. Oh well, we'll see."

As usual he is his toughest critic. I think it looks great.

BDC41866 gives us more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
"Took a vacation last week for my birthday so I havent really done much on the customizing front. But I did find some fodder I had in storage so.....here we have two new Jedi customs. A Devaronian Jedi master and an Anomid Jedi Knight. Enjoy and more to come..."

I can never see enough Jedi and Sith Customs in my opinion. I like this new batch of Jedis.

Ajunta Pall shows us a Spider Mech Darth Maul!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
"Up next is one I'm really excited about. Not sure if I'm finished as I'd like to add more aluminum and copper wiring around the legs and abdomen of the spider mech but so far its turning out pretty cool in my opinion. I like using real metal wires because it allows for me to be able to bend and shape the legs in different positions.

I've also finished a custom Arc Trooper Fives (Very popular) for a client. The first pic of fives I forgot to add his goatee the second one is where I added it before I sent it out.

Updates and much much more to come...

1) Darth Maul (Spider-Mech) Clone Wars

Bronxstalker shares a new Mandalorian...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 27 2016
"I'm backkkkkkkkkkk :)

I haven't posted recently, because many of my recent customs have been non-star wars (marvel mostly).
Anyway, I've recently completed my latest mando (covert ops). He's made using a marauder task force figure (love em).

Enjoy."

Matter of fact he is up for sale on the Bay if you are interested.

Mark Hamill is Coming to Star Wars Celebration Europe...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 26 2016
"Star Wars Celebration presents cast and crew from across the Star Wars saga, plus pop culture personalities, artists and writers, and celebrities who love Star Wars. With new Star Wars movies on the horizon, Celebration will be the first place to meet those behind the future of the galaxy far, far away! Guests will be announced right here and be on the look-out for surprise guests, too, as there's no telling who might make special appearances at Celebration!"

Click here to see the latest on who has already confirmed an appearance at Celebration Europe!

Custom Creator gives us a diorama update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 26 2016
"Working on a plywood simulated first floor, and old school wood beam second. Everything is just tacked for the minute. I need more flooring to finish off first floor."

Daggone this is gonna be so fantastic when he gets it done. His attention to the smallest detail really gets to my OCD Side. Bravo!

Bronxstalker selling a huge custom fodder lot...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 26 2016
"Hey all, it's been awhile since I've been on this site. So busy, and have been customizing a lot of marvel figures, and not so much star wars lately.

I'm trying to unload some of my stuff, since I don't have plans on customizing these (already have a bunch of other clone figures and fodder).

Lots of figures here (and weapons and other fodder)."

Looks like a great price is on this lot so far!

A message from Eric from Hole in the Ground Productions!
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 26 2016
"
Hey diorama fans! I would like to bring a matter to your attention. A few days ago I found that an eBayer seller was selling recasts of some of my diorama parts. This is NOT COOL. Recasting is copying an artist’s work! If you see any suspicious sales going down on ebay or anywhere else, please let me know so I can look into it. I know that this kind of bootlegging is impossible to stop completely but I will do everything I can to put a stop to it when I find it happening. I have already spoken with an eBay rep so hopefully this can be resolved quickly. I know who they are and that they have purchased other items which they may attempt to recast as well. They even had the nerve to try to place an order after having received two emails from me asking them to stop the bootlegging. Just beware of people who may be recasting as they are stealing other artist’s work. Not just me, but other artists as well. I know most of you know this and I wish I didn’t have to say anything, but there’s someone out there whose perfectly ok with profiting off someone else’s work.

In more pleasant news, the starship door and doorway wall will be available soon!"

Copying and taking credit for someone's work is just not cool and we here at the Shipyards will do all we can to help!

Finding out more about Bandai Tamashii Nation Effects...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 25 2016
Well Dan started off the end of last week with a cool review of their Red Burning Articulated Effect and I started doing a little digging.

Well now I have found out that they have a ton of different style effects like the blue lightning you see above. There is also a yellow version of it.

There are also just a ton of different ground, wave, and explosion effects too along with awesome looking display stands for that one of a kind action figure or custom. Click here to go peruse em all. Good luck buying just one!

Ajunta Pall is back with three new customs...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 25 2016
"Been busy lately but here's a few I've been working on lately. Hope you like them.

1)Arc trooper fives WIP (waiting on clone head casts to finish this one). This one is heavily war torn. He is 14poa all ball joints even hips. Updates soon for this one. Working on another one for a client.
2) Gregor WIP (waiting on clone head casts to finish this one and backpack as well)
3) Adi Galia (Clone Wars Style) really like how she turned out.

Much more to come..."

I always like hearing the more to come part. I must say I am liking the Clone action we are seeing in this one.

Ron Hembling is back to work on his Falcon Dio...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"Hi All,

Break time over LOL.

I added the side sections and then measured out the top/bottom section of the manibles. I have to make the inner section of the round sections before I glue them inplace.

Ron"

This is gonna be way over the top when gets done. So cool!

Ron Hembling takes a break to work on a special project...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"Hi All,

Took a small break tonight and did this for my daughter as she loves BB-8 I picked it up from a mate from our local hobby club.

As per the daughter's instructions I wasn't allowed to make and paint/weather it how I wanted to I had to do it her way LOL.

So I repainted it using Vallejo paints and then gave it a wash of matt black and lightly drybrushed it with desert yellow.

The figure comes with a clear base that allows it to roll in one spot so I glued it to the black base that came with it and then added sand by mixing 2 tablespoons of spakfilla and 4 tablespoons of sand and added some desert yellow and mixed it all together and added it to the base.

Once the base was dry I gave it a wash of desert yellow to darken it just a little and the flame was done by painting some cotton wool and then cutting off a small piece and glued it to the arm and sprayed the whole thing with dull coate."

Wow, that looks great! As you can see it was well received. What a great way to get your kids involved in customizing and Star Wars! Dad of the Year Honors for sure!

Black Thorne adds a new Wasteland Diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"I finished a wasteland camp based on the Mad Max game (excellent game, by the way). Check this out."

It turned out fantastic!

JDeck is back with a Rebel Armada Dio...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"I assembled the 1/10000 ships. The MC80 ships are pretty nice. It just took a bit of filling and a good bit of sanding. The other pieces weren't difficult, I just had a bad case of butterfingers today, lost one bitty piece, so I just fabricated a replacement. They just need to be painted. I mocked them up to see what size plaque to use. I think it'll be pretty rad."

Yepper I do too! It is great seeing all those ships together.

Darth Daddy is back with an update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"Ownellco was a male Lutrillian who lived during the Galactic Civil War. In 0 BBY, he was standing near the bar in Chalmun's Spaceport Cantina, chatting with the Qiraash female Leesub Sirln, on the day that Obi-Wan Kenobi and Luke Skywalker chartered Han Solo and the Millennium Falcon for passage to Alderaan.

The head I used was a heavily modified cast that was originally created by I-AM-BOBA-FETT of Riff Valley Designs. The Lutrillian head cast I used for my Ownellco was of the character of Solomahal as he appeared in the Star Wars Holiday Special. The version of the character that I wanted to make was the second Lutrillian that had appeared in the cantina of Star Wars: A New Hope named Ownellco. While not a perfect match for the character I was making, the head was different enough than the head I used for "Atheloe aka The Colonel" earlier this month. I just had to Dremel off the scarf that was part of the cast and sculpt in the bottom of his face.

The jacket was handcrafted, and the body of the figure was a 100% sculpted. I used the Rancor Keeper body as my base figure, sanded it down and sculpted onto what remained. I stained and modified the jacket from a Black Series Endor Han Solo. First I cut the jacket shorter, and then I created pockets from the scraps left behind. I tried to keep the stitching wherever I could to give it a more finished look."

Looks like another great job by Brian.

Mandalore25 is back!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"Next is a Darth Zannah, I know it's the 4th one I've made, but she's a popular character that sells pretty well, and doesn't take long to make.

If anyone is interested, make me an offer here:

And this is my most recent, quite literally, finished him last night, ARC Trooper Fives. Yes another double, but the last one just didn't do it for me as an artist. The customer who ordered the last one was super happy with it, and that's my primary goal, especially with orders, but I think this one is really something special. This one is complete with blasters, backpack, and two heads, the unhelmeted actually from a Fives figure. A special thanks to Clint (Clonehead) for hooking me up with the backpack, and pauldrons on this one, excellent casts as always for a good price. Also tried taking pictures with my phone this time, I definitely like the close shots my old camera camera just can't do, but these seem a bit grainy perhaps? What do you guys think, better quality overall?

If anybody is interested, he's listed here:"

And that is just him getting warmed up, there is a lot more to see!

Jetpack Blues gets back in the saddle...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"Current WIP. thought it would be an "easy" build. was either wrong or am completely out of practice."

Well he sure doesn't look too out of practice to me. I was so looking forward to 1313 and was majorly bummed when it didn't release after the shake up with lucasarts. It is nice to see Tim keeping it alive.

John Graeber shares a dio on Facebook...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
His Rogue One Bacta Chamber looks fantastic! Don't forget you will see customs on our Facebook Page shared by the fantastic custom artists there too!

And update from Rancho Obi-Wan!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 24 2016
"Inspiration for Every Generation

Last year's build-up to The Force Awakens took us many places. We saw lots of old friends and met many new ones. Today we'd like to tell you all about what’s up this year--our fifth anniversary!

Thanks to your contributions and support, at the end of 2015 we added a large off-site working space to the museum. We have hundreds of boxes to open and sort. We will be sharing the treasures we find on social media, in the museum and in future books and exhibits.

We have also welcomed several part-time staff members. Our new head docent, bookkeeper and office assistant are enabling ROW to grow and find additional ways to inspire.

We have two collection installations that you can currently view:

"Eye of the Collector" at The Perot Museum in Dallas can be seen through Labor Day. Enjoy a sampling of the items found here at ROW as well as many other diverse collections like PEZ, Dallas Cowboys and fossils.

Copperfield's in Petaluma has a small selection of unusual Star Wars books from ROW displayed in one window.
Our free school-tour program has tripled now that we have docents who are expanding our ability to serve the increasing number of young people embracing Star Wars fandom. We have recently inspired groups from local middle and high schools, universities, homeschoolers and continuing education programs.

Already this year, we have donated thousands of dollars in tours to other charities to help them raise money for schools, gardens, libraries, music, community radio, medicine, the homeless and those with disabilities.

Please partner with us to continue these endeavors as we use the collection at Rancho Obi-Wan to serve the public and inspire the world. Announcing our spring 2016 fundraiser:

Inspiration for Every Generation

DONATE NOW AT DONATE.RANCHOOBIWAN.ORG"

It is definitely a great place to support. It is on my bucket list to get out there and view this someday.

Articulated Flame Effects anyone?
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 22 2016
I just can't get over how cool these Bandai Tamashii Nations Tamashii Effect Burning Flame Action Figures are!

Thanks to Dan posting on these I did a little research on good ole Amazon.com and have found that there are three different colored versions of this:

Red

Blue

and a Dark Purple

Couldn't you just see Darth Vader, the Emperor, or your favorite Sith or Jedi Character surrounded by these! Click here to get see em all.

Dan reviews some flame effects...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 22 2016
"I found a single Tamashii Nations "Burning Flame" Effect (Red Ver.) at Barnes & Nobel after work today!

This thing is AWESOME (2 of the flames are even ball jointed for additional posing!) and I want these in every color of the spectrum right now!"

Daggone these look fantastic! Articulated flame effects too! FTW! Amazon.com is showing three different versions of this!

DaBooma creates TFA Han...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 22 2016
"Greetings gents!

I was able to find a Force Awakens Han in the wild, finally! I already had parts set aside to make a better articulated figure, I just needed this one for his head and jacket. :P

Head and jacket are from the 5poa figure. I painted the hair black, then dry brushed it with white and silver. Chest and holster are from a Vintage Collection Han, legs are from Bom Vimdin. Arms are from an Indiana Jones figure. The hands are unknown.. they were laying around.

Here's how he turned out!"

I sure do like the look and seeing him fully articulated brings a smile to my face.

Bill Stellin shows us Snowba Fett!
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 22 2016
All decked out in snow gear, our favorite Bounty Hunter is looking pretty daggone good if you ask me. Once again courtesy of our Facebook Page.

HALCION sends in a Facebook Update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 22 2016
It looks like he is taking on a special project for a friend. I like the look of it.

I haven't checked in on Facebook for a few days and wow has there been some great activity!

Big Bad Toy Store lists great new Star Wars Items!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 21 2016
STAR WARS SIXTH SCALE E-WEB REPEATING BLASTER
Sideshow Collectibles is proud to present the E-Web Heavy Repeating Blaster Sixth Scale weapon. Featuring a portable power generator with conduit hose, the Imperial Army's powerful blaster can be positioned up and down or from side to side, to create a custom display, the perfect complement to any Star Wars Imperial Army trooper sixth scale collection. $159.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=sideshow%20sixth%20scale

STAR WARS MOVIE REALIZATION SANDTROOPER
Tamashii Nations has done it again with the next addition to the Japanese feudal-style Meisho Movie Realization line. Third to join this unique series is the artillery packed Teppo Ashigaru Sandtrooper! The Sandtrooper version comes with two gun powder type rifles and a Japanese katana sword ready for battle. The special backpack is designed with meticulous detail and finished with a rusty look. $89.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=movie%20realization

ACID RAIN LAUREL GHOST 7 (LE 800)
The Laurel is an industrial powered suit with a cockpit and hatch that features a linked mechanical structure between hatch and main engine, and is built to accommodate the included Ghost 7 Pilot. This clear Ghost version comes with a shoulder cannon and grenade launcher and is a limited edition of 800 worldwide. $99.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=ORI10020&mode=retail

NEW EAGLEMOSS PUBLICATIONS
Expand your Eaglemoss Publications collections with these new offerings including 2 The Walking Dead Figures, 2 The Hobbit Motion Picture Figure Collection, 5 Marvel Fact Files including a new Special Edition, 4 Marvel Chess Figures, 2 DC Superhero Best of Figures, the second watch in the new DC Watch Collection, a DC Masterpiece Figure, 3 Star Trek Starships, and the first item in the new Star Trek Dedication Plaque line.
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/list.aspx?list=20992

BDC41866 is back with more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 21 2016
"This was a fun kitbash and the color scheme worked out very well. Here we have a post Order 66 bounty hunter with scavenged clone trooper gear. More to come..."

This combination works very well too. It is always interesting to see what he posts next.

Amazon has the 6" Finn for only $11.32!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 20 2016
It sure has been crazy on amazon.com lately with some pricing seeming like huge rip offs and then others, like this Black Series 6 Inch Jakku Finn, being a steal at only $11 bucks!

Of course we will keep you updated if we see any great deals or in-stock items for recent releases (like the ANH 6" Luke and Ahsoka), but click here to check out the current prices directly on amazon.com!

Larifari is back with a new diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 20 2016
"Analysis droids in the analysis room."

Talk about a real looking Star Wars Set. I am blown away by the realism, both with the custom action figures (Scanning Droids) and his Scanning Room.

Back to the drawing board for Ron Hembling!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 20 2016
"Hi all,

I re-did the length of the Falcon thanks to Jason over at the FB SW Bandai page, It should be around 9.5 feet for 1/12 figures mine first attempt was 5.6 feet and now it's 7.9 feet which I'm happy with .

I decided to keep it at 7.9 as I really don't want to spend to much on materials but use what I have in my parts and bits boxes.

Ron"

He is making it bigger! That sure works for me. Ron is meticulous when it comes to making sure things are done in the right scale. I can't wait to see this go together.

Forceflow shows us his Motorpool!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 20 2016
"Resistance Biker Scout

The Resistance has no qualms with re-purposing First Order equipment. Red on black isn't really their style... nor easy to camouflage. This Elite Speeder has been repainted to better suit their base on D'Qar and other temperate worlds. Biker Scouts provide armed escort and perimeter defense for Resistance bases and convoys, relying on heavy firepower and speed.

Pretty much a straight repaint of the Elite Speeder Bike, the first TFA merchandise purchase I made. The Biker is mostly Hrchek Kal Fas with new legs to better straddle the bike. Head is from Captain America Hydra Soldier. He reminds me of a Ralph McQuarrie concept, with that head and torso. Thanks for looking!"

Wow, it looks great!

BDC41866 is back with more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 20 2016
"Heres a quick and easy one. Head swap, added some armor and a helmet and we have an Old Republic trooper. More to come."

I always like reading that last part too.

OSCAR ISAAC & BB-8 ANNOUNCE THIS WEEK'S STAR WARS: FORCE FOR CHANGE PRIZES
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 19 2016
"Star Wars: Force for Change will match up to $1,000,000 in donations made by fans to four charities between now and May 4th

Today, Oscar Isaac, alongside BB-8, announced details for this week’s campaign sponsored by CrowdRise in support of Star Wars: Force for Change. Since April 5th, Star Wars: Force for Change, an initiative that inspires people to make a positive impact on the world, has been matching the donations of Star Wars fans to four select charities up to $1,000,000!

This week, the first four people to donate or raise at least $500 will have the chance to win a Star Wars prize pack including a BB-8 powered by Sphero, signed by J.J. Abrams and Kathleen Kennedy. Additionally, the top fundraiser this week has the chance to win a tour of Lucasfilm in San Francisco, with a screening of any Star Wars movie of their choice while there.

This month-long campaign will lead up to “Star Wars Day” on May the 4th. The four select charities include the U.S. Fund for UNICEF in support of UNICEF Kid Power, American Red Cross, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Make-A-Wish®.

Over the course of the four-week period, which culminates at 11:59pm (PST) on May 4th, fans will be able to donate through CrowdRise.com/ForceForChange to these four charities and have their donations matched dollar for dollar up to $1,000,000. All participants who enter will also have a chance to win an all-expense paid trip to Ireland, including Skellig Michael along the Wild Atlantic Way, the location of the dramatic final scene from The Force Awakens.

Show your Force and visit CrowdRise.com/ForceForChange now for more details."

Stronox is back with an TFA Luke!
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 19 2016
"My Force Awakens Luke in 3.75 in scaleM...Even made this with a wire in the seam of the cloak for posing...Hope you guys like him!"

I know I sure like the look of him. Matter of fact if you like him extremely well you can put in a bid to own him!

Ron Hembling continues his new 6" Falcon Dio...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 19 2016
"Hi All,

I did some adjustments to the template and did the cockpit floor template and were it should sit on the hull. I thought the cockpit might not be wide enough but I did a quick test using paper and made a tube out of it and it looked like it was a perfect size.

Ron"

This is gonna be so rad when he gets it done. I am trying to be patient as I know Ron really gets progress done quickly.

Custom Creator updates us on his current diorama project...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 19 2016
"Starting work in on floor two. Yes, the side windows are lower, much like an addition was added on at some point. Lots of cleaning up to do on the sills. Will be doing floor joists and wooden flooring upstairs."

The detail he puts into his dioramas is flat out astounding!

Halnarthax87 checks back in...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 19 2016
"Well, it's been a while, but I do have a fair amount of customs I've been working on in that time. Here are just a few rebels to start off, more to come. One barabel and his human lady pal, a former imperial. Oh, and I finally figured out how to take decent quality photos."

Wow his photos and customs are awesome!

BDC41866 is back with more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 19 2016
"I didnt realize just how much female figure fodder I had. Good thing too because Ive been wanting to do an Old Republic Jedi Shadow. I used my Dremel to hollow out small pinholes on the two ends of a Darth Maul lightsaber hilt, and then added two removable green blades. More to come..."

I always like seeing the more to come part. He is always good for an update. I really like his eye when it comes to putting customs together.

Darth Daddy starts up a podcast!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
"Just started a new show with Peak-OB1 talking the television series and the custom figures it has inspired."

With those two around The Clone Wars will always be remembered.

Ron Hembling starts a new Star Wars Project...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
"Hi All,

Well onto another project and I have been wanting to do this for a very long time and decided to start it. I will be doing this over the next two months in between other projects and hopefully have it complete before a show that will be happening in July.

I will be doing a partial Falcon like the one in the link which Attakus did, I want to do the interior but depending on time I might have to delay it till after the show.
http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0744/5517/products/ATTAKUS_11_large.jpg?v=1439496622

The template is just shy under 2 meters long which I think is a good length. The length is from the edge of the wardrobe which is where the upper and lower engine shields will go to the tip of the template.

Ron"

Wow, this is gonna be huge!

Ron Hembling finishes his Fallout4 Diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
"Hi All,

Here are my usual pics and enjoy.

Ron"

I look at Ron's work and just shake my head. So cool!

Jodo shares Era of Darkness Chapter 9...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
He is back with a brand new chapter, if you are like me you hate waiting to see what happens next so here is your link to go find out!

BDC41866 gives us more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
"Here is a group shot of the ladies. An all female mercenary clan, the "Rancor's Lullaby" are made up of females from diverse races and backgrounds who have taken it upon themselves to help the disenfranchised, the oppressed and in particular, beings sold into slavery. Their leader, a Twilek Jedi seeker, Hepzibah Leilani Leluu, is a former slave herself, who was freed from A band of Hutt slavers by several of the other members. Now they fight together to help others less fortunate."

I like the look of these!

Eddie Johns shares some news about Zuvio...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
Eddie always keeps me in the loop in regard to perplexing things as it pertains to Star Wars. I always appreciate his tags, he never does it haphazardly and the information is always good! Check out our Facebook Page!

Some OT Custom Cardbacks from Foxtrot Delta...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
"Here's some more Custom Cardbacks, this time from the original trilogy"

From his TFA Cardbacks, G.I. JOE, etc. I have really loved the diversity I am seeing from FD!

Star Wars Celebration Europe Announces Warwick Davis!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 17 2016
"Star Wars Celebration presents cast and crew from across the Star Wars saga, plus pop culture personalities, artists and writers, and celebrities who love Star Wars. With new Star Wars movies on the horizon, Celebration will be the first place to meet those behind the future of the galaxy far, far away! Guests will be announced right here and be on the look-out for surprise guests, too, as there's no telling who might make special appearances at Celebration!"

He sure did a great job at past Celebrations I know!

Also, don't forget about the cool poster our friends at Jeditemplearchives have posted. Talk about something awesome to add to your collection or wall!

Look who got featured!
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 16 2016
The 501st Armored Cavalry Detachment featured the roll out box of yours truly this morning! How cool is that! Talk about putting a smile on the ole Tamer's face.

Sideshow offers life sized Boba Fett1
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 15 2016
"Sideshow is proud to present the galaxy's most feared bounty hunter with the Star Wars Boba Fett Life-Size Figure.

Created in collaboration with the talented prop replica specialists at Tom Spina Designs, this magnificent six-and-a-half foot tall replica is so realistic, you’ll swear he jumped right off the Slave I! Standing confidently on a light up themed base, Boba Fett is decked out from head to toe in an authentic replica of his Mandalorian armor, featuring an articulated helmet with adjustable rangefinder, intricately detailed fabric costume and utility belt, a light-up chest panel, and braided Wookiee scalp accessories. Armed with a blaster at the ready, and another holstered at his hip, the resourceful mercenary is equipped with his signature jetpack and keeps various tools of the trade stashed in his pockets. The Boba Fett Life-Size Figure is the ultimate collectible for fans of the Fett, a truly unique centerpiece in any home theater, mancave or Star Wars display."

Talk about having the ultimate version of this particular character!

Yakface sends in a new update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 15 2016
"So I just started messing around and sculpted a 1:18th scale melted Vader helmet, actually came out really cool. Check it I am casting these right now for another project but they would rock in a diorama. Let me know if anyone is interested in one, I'm asking $10 unpainted."

It looks pretty good to me!

Ajunta Pall is back with a three pack...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 15 2016
"Hi all, next up is the good (rebel) the bad (imperial officer) and the ugly (rodian)
1) Saw Gerrera (Onderon Rebel) from the clone wars.
2)Admiral Sha Dun (from the legacy comics) Krayts one sith order
3) Younger Greedo (clone wars)

I'm still working on Steela Gerrera (Saw's sister and leader of the Onderon rebelion) but I've got a lot of fires lit. I'll get around to it eventually and post updates. I personally really like how Greedo turned out. I've never owned a version of the character I truly adored but this one did it for me. Although I've yet to own the vintage collection version and its been on my list for quite a while. Admiral Sha Dun was kind of a second though I like how he turned out and have a few clients requesting them now. Thanks for looking. Much much more to come!"

Thank You for sharing!

Mr. Jedi 1977 gives us his second huge customs update for 2016...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 15 2016
"Hey every one second batch of 2016 customs . Or should I say now its a quest to make one of the most complete collection of figures produced and customs . So kicking it off is a second version and I think a much more accurate version of the super mouse droid all hand built with foam for the outer layer . Next it the RA Unit from the Jawa Sandcrawler using the B.A.D droids arms and legs from the last legacy collection and weathered as accuratly as possible as well as the Gonk droid just weathered. A fully Articulated Aunt Beru Which I resculpted her collar using a Toryn Farr body. A Fully Articulated Squid Head (Tessek) And finally Owen and Beru together Fully Articulated Back soon."

Talk about having a heck of a time picking a favorite to use for the front page. I like em all!

Custom Creator goes huge on us this time...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 15 2016
"From small stairway to GIANT blown out building...lol

We going BIG! This was a wall I started last year and my window measurement was off. So I decided to rip it apart, and inspiration struck.

Two floors of blown out madness!! This is going to be fun!"

It looks like this is gonna be a great project!

JDeck calls it finished...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 15 2016
"I'll go ahead and call it finished. Sometimes less is more. When I was a kid my dentist had a U.S Naval fleet model under glass, I thought that was the coolest thing ever. It had a carrier with planes, frigates, gunships, the works. You see similar things in naval museums. Its not exactly museum quality, but I was going for that look. At 7" x5" the display is fairly small, and it looks good anywhere without taking up a bunch of space. The base, I thought turned out great. The resin ships are very nicely detailed, which makes painting easy. I really like the 3D printed 1/2256 x-wings and Y-wings from J_roncho, on Shapeways. They really complete the display."

Click in for the full description. It sure does look descript to me.

Ron Hembling adds to his Fallout4 Diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 15 2016
"Hi All,

Re-started the Fallout T-45 Power Armour tonight.

I have started adding extra armour to the figure and I added small nuts to the Laser Gattling Gun which I got from a old 1/20 M.ak figure I did a while back.

The billboard is made from plasti card and the pylon is plumbers piping and the sign I printed of the net and glued it to the plasti card and then sanded and roughed it up.

Ron"

Wow, think this is the first time I have seen a billboard incorporated as part of a diorama. What a great idea!

Big Bad Toy Store lists great new Star Wars Items!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 14 2016
STAR WARS SHADOW BOXES
The elegant 14x14x2 inch framed 3-D displays make the characters and iconic images from your favorite Star Wars characters pop out of the frame and can stand on a shelf or hang on a wall with the attached d-ring hangers. With 6 designs to choose from, you are sure to find a favorite—or you can collect them all for the ultimate Star Wars wall display! $39.99 each
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=shadow%20box%20star%20wars

STAR WARS EPVII TIE FIGHTER PILOT PREMIER HELMET
ANOVOS® is proud to offer the Star Wars™: The Force Awakens First Order TIE Fighter Pilot Helmet Premier Line Accessory. The Premier Line is for the insatiable collector, who needs every detail meticulously studied and excruciatingly reproduced for the ultimate wearable costume. The helmet is created from 3D scans and reference from the original prop with a fiberglass shell and fully lined interior that features adjustable pads. The bubble lenses are tinted and the respirator fittings are made of metal. $649.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=ANV10127&mode=retail

2016 STAR WARS BLACK SERIES WAVE 1
Re-create the biggest battles and missions in the Star Wars epic with figures from The Black Series! These highly articulated figures feature the exacting details and accessories expected by collectors. Expand your Black Series collection with EPII Jango Fett along with Captain Phasma, First Order Flametrooper, Finn FN-2187, and Han Solo from EPVII in the Case of 6 for $119.99; or grab the Set of Jango, Finn, Flametrooper, and Han for $89.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=star%20wars%20black

S.H. Figuarts announces Jango Fett!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 14 2016
Tamashi.jp has announced September 2016 we will see them release yet another wonderful addition to their 6" releases. I must say if you have not yet seen these versions in the 6" scale scroll down and prepare to be amazed!

Ron Hembling finishes his Rogue One Stormtrooper Diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 14 2016
"Hi All,

The dio is complete. I used pastel chalks to add some weathering to the walls and figure.

Ron"

That is one fantastic looking Trooper and Dio if you ask me. It sure didn't take him long to put this one together!

Panther gives us the final Sith Temple Update!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 14 2016
"My final update of my Sith Temple!

The roof is built, sanded and applied. I decided to leave it with an open back making the battery pack accessible and giving it an apex roof answered my question on whether to fix the roof in place or make it removable.

Until I have finished my SWTOR custom figures, here few shots with my current SWTOR figures.

I hope you enjoy the pictures.

Richard."

Talk about on fantastic set piece for his Sith Figures. Folks would go gaga if Hasbro ever announced anything like this. Great project Richard!

BDC41866 gives us more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 14 2016
"One more for the night. Im thinking of posting a group shot of these femme fatales, giving them a backstory as a mercenary unit. Here is an Old Republic Jedi Sage. More to come."

I am liking his female focus lately. I even recognize the base figure on this one. I miss comic packs.

The Spectre creates some Generic Spacers...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 14 2016
"Generic crew of spacers for my diorama made from six "Doctor Who" 3.75" 12th Doctor in space suit figures. The heads are random extra heads from my heads box, chosen for thier size in relation to the 12th Doctor heads' height so that the helmets still fit properly."

These look like they will fit well with any Star Wars or Sci-Fi Verse.

JDeck creates a ship base...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 14 2016
"I made the display base for my "Haven Rendezvous Point." display. This type of display is great for star wars mircro machines, X-wing Miniatures, models and more.

I started with a cheap pine 7" x5" plaque with "fancy" cut. The pine is not by any means stain grade and you'll have to sand it to get a good enough surface. I decided where I wanted my ships to go, and I drilled small holes in the plaque. I used fairly thin brass rods for the ships, and even smaller yet rods for the fighters. I placed glue in the holes followed by the rods. Let it dry for a couple hours. I then painted it with several coats of flat black. After that was dried, I dilluted some flat white paint and used a toothbrush to create the star effect. Just dip the toothbrush into the diluted paint and flick it using your thumb. You could give the base a few flat matte clear coats to protect the paint and give it some depth. That's about it. Easy peasy.

The last picture shows basically how it'll look finished. I need to add detail to some of the ships, but it gives you an idea. If you look closely, you can see the x-wings and Y-wings. Very tiny, but in scale."

I think it sets off his new ships nicely. What a great way to display em all together!

BDC41866 gives us more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 13 2016
"Here is a concept Twilek Jedi Seeker, based on this photo from the new Force and Destiny RPG sourcebooks Savage Spirits. More to come..."

Matter of fact there is even a new one after this post so be sure to scroll down when you look at his update. He sure comes up with some awesome parts combinations.

Darth Daddy is back with an update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 13 2016
"This is a 100% sculpted action figure made with ProCreate. I used the Vintage Bespin Luke Skywalker as a base, sanded it down and sculpted on top of it. The hands are from the Vintage Ponda Baba action figure. The head was from a POTF2 4-LOM that I completely sculpted over. I actually grabbed a pair of scissors and used my own hair to create this action figure. I guess that means this creation of mine can be used as a voodoo doll.

"TZIZVVT"

Looks fantastic to me. I mean flawless!

Ron Hembling gets closer on his Rogue One Storm Trooper...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 13 2016
"Hi All,

Last update for the night.

I gave the figure two coats of Matt Black to see what and where I need to sand and I am very happy with the way it looks.

Ron"

Click on one of the images above to get into the full gallery on his Facebook Page!

Panther is almost there with his Sith Temple...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 13 2016
"Almost there!

I etched in brick work to the front and into the proscenium arch, enhancing its details. I have also built the exterior walls, etching in brick work and fitting them to the base, glued the LED's into place.

Just need to create the roof and apply paint touch ups and then I think I might be there! Definitely on track to being finished by the weekend!

I hope you enjoy!

Richard"

That brick really brings it home. I also loved seeing the behind the scenes light work.

Star Wars: Force For Change - Your Chance to Win an Autographed Rogue One Stormtrooper Helmet...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 12 2016
"Rogue One: A Star Wars Story star Felicity Jones reveals the prize for this week's top Star Wars: Force For Change fundraiser: a wearable Rogue One stormtrooper helmet autographed by the cast! In addition, Star Wars: Force for Change will match the donations of Star Wars fans to four select charities up to $1 million until May the 4th.

Show your Force and donate at http://CrowdRise.com/ForceForChange"

Now that is one awesome looking helmet!

Even more work on Ron Hembling's Rogue One Shadow Trooper...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 12 2016
"Hi All,

The figure is now 80% complete, I just need to paint and weather him and then add few pouches and then make the base.

These show the black stocking I used to cover the joints up so if you want him to be articulated you can and not see the joints.

Ron"

The way he is working, this will be totally done by tomorrow. Amazing!

Panther shows even more of an update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 12 2016
"Last night I cracked on and this is how it went. I had been wandering round my local Poundland for craft knifes and glue when I found a string of 10 LED lights designed for a parasol at £1, this I thought would be perfect for my corridor to no-where. Last night I drilled 10 LED holes, 2 over the main the door, 4 for the corridor walls and 2 either side of the back door and 2 over the door. I cut little pieces of foam core, angled them and stuck them underneath each LED, forcing them to shine the light upwards instead of outwards. I think it turned out rather well, especially when I make the roof and the exterior walls.

For the outside of the temple I have started to build up the front, designing a proscenium arch over the main entrance. I am thinking of scratching in symbols and few wavy lines for effect on the pros arch, maybe scratching some brick work around the main door for effect. I was looking at it and thinking the main door need something because it looks very flat and in need of a little detail."

The lights are wonderful and seeing this population a bit just shows how great it is!

Yakface is back after a 3 year hiatus!
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 12 2016
"Wow I'm back after 3 years almost to the day! Its been a busy few weeks on the workbench, I picked up an old project and injected new skills and ideas into it! I'm proud to share my progress with the soon to be my first action figure kit of the original Sysnootles. I started this as a personal project and now it has become something other people can enjoy in their collections. Enough talk go check it out!"

More of Ajunta Pall's great female customs update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 12 2016
He uploaded over a dozen gal customs the other day and I featured his EU Rey, but there are a ton of other great ones to peruse too.

I also really liked his Rogue One Jyn Erso whose fame is now secured after last week's Rogue One Trailer. Still, there is a ton of epic super articulated female custom goodness in his update if you haven't seen it yet.

Ron Hembling makes progress on his Rogue One Shadow Trooper...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 12 2016
"Hi All,

I have completed the helmet and the body. I used plasti card and some 1/35 parts and putty to make the helmet and painted the putty areas green to see where I need to do a little sanding.

The chest and back have been modified using plasti card and the items on the outside forearms are 1/35 bino and sticj grenades, notice them while I was slowly looking for the troopers and see if I could see any other details.

The gun I also noticed was different as well and I used a Bandai E-11 blaster and cut the muzzle off and replaced it with plasti card tube and removed the scope and added some small plasti card and the front handle is from another spare Bandai E-11 I had in the parts box.

Ron"

It looks spot on from the trailer in my opinion.

Panther gives us a Sith Temple Update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
"Here is another further update of my temple. As you can see, I've painted the base using acrylic paints and glued the bottom parts together, including the stairs into the temple. Now I've worked out what the interior is going to be, I've started to cut the pieces out for the exterior, now you have a bit of an idea of how this might finally look.

I hope you like it."

Well I sure like it. It will be great to see it finished and populated with red and black tattooed figures.

Ron Hembling is back with a new helmet...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
"Hi All,

I did another helmet and it's 85% complete and I was wondering which one looks better for a Rogue One Death Shadow Trooper.

Ron"

Well don't make me choose, I think they both look great.

Black Thorne shows us a Fantasy Diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
"A few weeks back I tried something different from my usual stuff. Here is my first "sword and sorcery" diorama"

I like the look of it. It lends itself well to LOTR thats for sure!

BDC41866 gives us more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
"Awhile back I started working on some Jedi characters from the Fantasy Flight Star Wars RPG Force and Destiny. This is one of the female Jedi that I finished up. Still thinking about adding dreadlocks to her head, or going with an Aurra Sing head with some Quinlan Vos dreads glued on. Thoughts?"

Let him know what you think!

JDeck is back with a Medial Frigate...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
"I also started on this 1/2256 Nebulon B Medical Frigate. I assembled it, and started painting. Again, I painted it black then white. Now, I'm in the process of giving it black, and white washes, as well as some color variations. I was going to wait until I got the wood base I'll be using, but its taking its time getting here.

Ohh yeah, I decided not to put lights in it. Too dang small. K.I.S.S. Keep It Simple Stupid, is what I always say."

Looks great to me and kiss is always a good principle. I wish I would listen to it more often.

Its all female customs from Ajunta Pall...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
"Hey everyone, up next is a recap of three female characters I did earlier this year that I'm really proud of. One I think will be more appreciated now that the Rogue One trailer has been released ;) Enjoy! Much much more to come..

1) Jyn Erso (felicity Jones character from Rogue One)
2) Ahsoka Tano (fully articulated)
3) Cassie Cryar
4) Celeste Morne
5) Sian Jeisel
6) Asajj Ventress (dark disciple)
7) Komari Vosa (apprentice to dooku)
8 ) ketsu (female bounty hunter from sw rebels)
9) 7th sister (sw rebels)
10) Sugi (cw bounty hunter)
11) Visas Marr
12) Jedi Rey (fan fiction)"

Needless to say I give this the ole Tamer Seal of Approval. They look fantastic. I am particularly enamored of his Fan Fiction Rey.

A long time ago (last week I think) In a galaxy far, far way(@PinewoodStudios ) THIS happened! Happy Birthday Daisy! 📷: @chelseahamill

A photo posted by Mark Hamill (@hamillhimself) on Apr 10, 2016 at 12:07pm PDT

Mark Hamill gives us an Episode VIII Teaser...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
Makes perfect sense to me. Luke will be in the role of Yoda training up one Rey to devastate the First Order Baddies.

The image came from Mark via Instagram at work at Pinewood Studios. I have a funny feeling the First Order is not gonna go down easy.

More customs shared on our Facebook Page...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
Bill Stellin has shown of some great work including this Desert Boba Fett. Its all just a jump away on our Facebook Page.

Last Call at Anovos for AT-AT Driver and TIE Pilot...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 11 2016
"As we approach final production on the Star Wars AT-AT Driver™ costume ensemble and helmet accessory, we will close the pre-order window to ensure adequate stock is available for shipping. Order by April 30th to ensure you won't miss out on this costume from ‎The Empire Strikes Back‬! ‪

As we approach final production on the Star Wars TIE Fighter Pilot™ costume ensemble and helmet accessory, we will close the pre-order window to ensure adequate stock is available for shipping. Order by April 30th to ensure you won't miss out on this costume!"

Talk about some great ensembles. You are almost out of time if you want em!

Ron Hembling shows us his second project...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 10 2016
"Hi All,

This is the second project which is a Shadow Trooper from Rogue One, I have to thank Brandon Flores as he did one and it got me of my butt to do mine.

The figure is a Bandai Sandtrooper and I have converted the helmet/chest and back armourand thou it's not 100% accurate I like the way it has turned out.

I used plasti-card and some 1/72 parts to make the helmet and plasti-card to make the chest and back armour, I still have some sanding and filling to do before I put the rest of him together.

Ron"

Oh yeah, I wondered if he was gonna create one of those, now I know!

Ron Hembling starts new projects!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 10 2016
"Hi All,

Started two new projects.

This one will a Fallout dio, I have been playing Fallout 4 and had this T-45 Power Armour figure from FUNKO which I decided to covert, I still have work to do on him by adding extra armour and greeblies.

I have changed over the hands as they were to small and gave him Bandai's Vader hands, I removed the tanks and changed them around and added new pipes from some old computer cords.

I added some BS 6" Biker Scout shoulder armour to the tricep area and re-adjusted the pipes on the helmet as they were even.

The Lazer Gat was built using plasti card 1/72 pieces, a old model knife blade tube and some pieces of tube and wire from the bits box.

Ron"

He sure doesn't let the dust settle before he starts something new! I like it already!

I-am-Boba-Fett is back with an update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 10 2016
"Here's a custom CHADRA-FAN SMUGGLER figure.
This ONE OF A KIND custom figure features:

- Custom paint work
- Custom poseable action figure
- Custom resin cast head, forearms/hands, and belt pouches
- Custom sculpted: lower pants legs, rolled up sleeves on both forearms, ears, neck fur, nose, lower mouth, and small beard details
- Custom Blaster Pistol included
- Custom painted solid resin cast Cargo Container included
- This custom figure is in scale with all 3.75 inch to 4 inch tall figures.

This custom CHADRA-FAN SMUGGLER figure is FOR SALE here"

Looks pretty good to me!

Foxtrot Delta is back with some new TFA Vintage Style Cardbacks...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 10 2016
"Here's some more updates."

While there isn't a huge description, with work like this no description is needed. The design and artwork sure looks top notch to me.

Don't forget this ISYer also offers custom cardback services of any genre for those who so desire too!

Star-Fall Webcomic Update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 10 2016
"-Page 2 of Chapter 1 is up on the Star-Fall website!

-Star-Fall is coming to a booth near you at NYCC this year!"

Imperialshipyards.net is proud to support endeavors of this nature. The dedications these type of fans show to our chosen hobby is golden if you want my opinion.

A custom shared on our Facebook Page...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 10 2016
We like to see em everywhere, feel free to use our Social Channels including our Facebook Page and we will feature them!

the latest is this rad looking Imperial Trooper from Bill Stellin.

Rogue One packaging revealed!
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 9 2016
Oh yeah, they got me with the Walkers and that new Imperial Trooper. I am so stoked for Rogue One now. Its seems like so much more than the Force Awakens and I was super hyped for that one too.

Read the full story at the official site. Thanks to our intrepid reporter Dan Kosa for the word.

I create a Travel Tote to get to Troops...
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 9 2016
I hinted at this creation a few weeks ago in my costume thread, but I finally got enough of this done to post. The Tamer now has a tote on wheels ready to literally role and represent!

More great images of Ron Hembling's 6" Hoth Han and Taun Taun Dio...
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 9 2016
I was posting a few things to our Facebook Page and saw this. I wanted to get it posted before my internet time left me today. Way to go Ron!

Don't forget his in depth step by step instruction portion of this project can be found in our forums.

Star Wars Fans upset?
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 9 2016
Shocking news there right? Sometimes I think we SW Fans are our own worst enemy. Especially so when I read things like this. I am reminded of the post about Phasma in Armor. Folks, we here at Imperial Shipyards wholeheartedly support and encourage the fine folks at Lucasfilm and Disney for supporting female leads. It makes me proud to show my daughter that my beloved movie series not only supports this, but screams it from the roof tops. Ok, rant over, but had to get that off my chest.

Ron Hembling finishes his Hoth Diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 9 2016
"Hi All,

The dio is now complete.

The base is built up using high density foam and the snow on the base is spakfilla mixed with some PVA glue and a small amount of water and then it was spread over the base. The snow on the figures was down again using the spakfilla mix but this time I dapped it over the figures to give that fallen snow look.

Ron"

Needless to say this gets Tamer's two thumbs way up seal of approval. I would go bonkers if Hasbro would ever do up one of their offerings like this. Way to go Ron!

Darth Daddy is back with an update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 9 2016
"Rycar Ryjerd was the father of Rayc Ryjerd. He was born on Corellia. Oftentimes, he found employment in the Mos Eisley Cantina on Tatooine, training people to be pilots or to help smugglers make a run. At one point, he was a partner of Nabrun Leids, but they later went their own ways, while maintaining a friendly competition. Ryjerd was an expert gun-runner, and flew weapons for Jabba between Nar Shaddaa and Tatooine. He had a droll sense of humor, and was considered by others to be an idiot. His personal bodyguard was Shud Haloo. His ship was named the Tower.

Rycar was present in Mos Eisley Cantina when Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi chartered a flight off Tatooine on the Millennium Falcon with Han Solo and Chewbacca.

The body for the figure was an Endor Han Solo. The head is 100% sculpted with Procreate onto an Ugnaught head that was severely modified into something completely new."

He looks great!

Rogue Group Snowspeeder Pilot Luke exclusively available in the US through Sideshow!
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 9 2016
"“Echo station Five-Seven. We're on our way!”

Sideshow is proud to present the Luke Skywalker Rogue Group Snowspeeder Pilot Sixth Scale Figure from Star Wars: Episode V The Empire Strikes Back.

An intergalactic battle is raging, and the Imperial troops have pursued the Rebel forces across the far reaches of the galaxy to the remote ice world of Hoth. Featuring a newly crafted portrait of Mark Hamill as the Rebel hero, Luke Skywalker is geared up and ready for action in his flight suit, cold-weather jacket, and helmet with comlink. Ready to lead Rogue Squadron in an assault on the Imperial forces making their way towards Echo Base, he is fully equipped with lit and unlit lightsabers, his trusty blaster, signal flares, and a plan to take down the mighty Imperial AT-AT walkers. He is the Rebels' greatest hope for victory – may the Force be with him!"

Looks pretty good to me!

Blizzard Force shows us a new one!
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 8 2016
"Just finished a new card for another figure...I'm trying to complete all Star Wars figures as my first intermediate goal, the last two to do are Hammerhead and Luke Stormtrooper (POTF) - of which I just completed the latter..."

Needless to say the vintage nostalgia has me going gaga over these. Daggone, but I would love to see Hasbro do this exact same thing. See an awesome custom figure packaged this way really sets the whole thing off in my opinion.

It didn't take Brandon Flores long...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 8 2016
He is already well into a great project involving one of the new Imperial Troopers we saw from the Rogue One Trailer! Check out our Facebook Page for more updates!

Ron Hembling shows us his custom Hoth Han...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 8 2016
"Hi All,

Started on Solo tonight and so far I glued the joints in place and I used plasticine to fill in the joints. The reason I used plasticine is the tissue once attached will keep it secure and the watered down PVA hardens the top layer but keeps the inner plasticine soft so it can move so that it won't crack or come away from the plastic.

The goggles have had the lens section cut out and I replaced it with a thin piece of clear plastic and once glued in place I then trimmed the excess away.

Ron"

Ron is killing me with this project it is so good. Truly one epic project if you ask me.

So what did you think?
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 8 2016
Needless to say after seeing those Walkers in action you know I am all in! I must have watched that new trailer a dozen times yesterday (see below if you haven't watched it yet).

The forums are a hopping with Rogue One talk, be sure to add your view, thoughts, and opinions too!

Star Wars Rogue One Trailer rules!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
"Get your first look at ROGUE ONE: A STAR WARS STORY in theaters this December.

Visit Star Wars at http://www.starwars.com"

See the walkers! See the walkers! Talk about all the OT Fans crying out in a single voice. I felt the tremor in the Force. Fantastic!

Big Bad Toy Store lists great new Star Wars Items!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
STAR WARS SHADOW BOXES
The elegant 14x14x2 inch framed 3-D displays make the characters and iconic images from your favorite Star Wars characters pop out of the frame and can stand on a shelf or hang on a wall with the attached d-ring hangers. With 6 designs to choose from, you are sure to find a favorite—or you can collect them all for the ultimate Star Wars wall display! $39.99 each
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=shadow%20box%20star%20wars

STAR WARS EPVII TIE FIGHTER PILOT PREMIER HELMET
ANOVOS® is proud to offer the Star Wars™: The Force Awakens First Order TIE Fighter Pilot Helmet Premier Line Accessory. The Premier Line is for the insatiable collector, who needs every detail meticulously studied and excruciatingly reproduced for the ultimate wearable costume. The helmet is created from 3D scans and reference from the original prop with a fiberglass shell and fully lined interior that features adjustable pads. The bubble lenses are tinted and the respirator fittings are made of metal. $649.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/product.aspx?product=ANV10127&mode=retail

2016 STAR WARS BLACK SERIES WAVE 1
Re-create the biggest battles and missions in the Star Wars epic with figures from The Black Series! These highly articulated figures feature the exacting details and accessories expected by collectors. Expand your Black Series collection with EPII Jango Fett along with Captain Phasma, First Order Flametrooper, Finn FN-2187, and Han Solo from EPVII in the Case of 6 for $119.99; or grab the Set of Jango, Finn, Flametrooper, and Han for $89.99
http://www.bigbadtoystore.com/bbts/search.aspx?search=star%20wars%20black

Glorbes creates a to scale Ghost!
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
"The Ghost!

Alright Hasbro, fine…if my kid and I want the Ghost, then by gum I’ll just have to make it myself!

Made from styrene sheet for the main construction, and an oversized plastic Easter egg for the forward canopies, this took a good long while to bring together. I was hoping to have it done for Easter (my son got the Phantom from the Easter Bunny), but I didn’t quite hit that timetable.

The basic body is 22” by 22”, roughly 2” wider/longer than the vintage Falcon. My son can pick it up at least.

The dorsal and forward turrets are articulated, which took a bit of figuring.

The project began by using Hasbro’s Phantom and working my way out within the basic dimensions I had in mind.

Again, like the Twilight, I imagined how this would work as a vintage toy, with clear inspiration from the old Falcon with the removable cockpit and hold sections.

It ain’t too sophisticated, but I think it’s recognizable as the Ghost, and it should provides some decent play time.

Thanks for looking!"

Folks this is so gorgeous it made me shed a tear! I don't care what angle (and he shows us many of those) the view is breath taking. I would be bragging my backside off in school with a ship like this. Father of the Year Material for sure! Wow!

Ron Hembling tricks out this 6" Scale Taun Taun...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
"Hi All,

The gear as been attached to the saddle and the pouch on the right side is a 1/6 German ammo pouch cut to size and painted, the Binos and Transmitter have had the straps added by using thin cut leather.

The stirrups were cut taken off and the plastic straps were taken off and replaced with real leather and O-rings. I still need to do some weathering to the gear but won't do that till Solo has been done and attached.

Ron"

Talk about improving things with fine detail work. This looks better than a Sideshow Statue to me now and that is saying something!

Custom Creator is closer to finishing his Stairway...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
"Added some "older" graffiti on the walls today (didn't take pic of other stuff), and started working on rusting the fence bottoms."

It looks fantastic to me and looks like it could be used in any genre that needs an urban scene.

JDeck previews TFA Movie Guide...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
"I went to Dollar General this morning to pick up a few things and found this Star Wars The Force Awakens: The Official Visual Story Guide. Its pretty awesome, it breaks down every scene, so when you watch the movie and read the magazine, its like having a commentary. Its filled with all kinds of info, some I knew, some nobody knows. Did you know Captain Phasma's armor was made of salvaged chromium from Palpatine's Naboo starcruiser? Pretty rad! It has some cool artwork and some simple blueprints. So pick it up and give it a read while watching The Force Awakens on blu ray."

I know I like dollar general prices so I will have to pick this up. Thanks for the heads up JDeck!

Rogue One Teaser on Good Morning America...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
I am sure by the time I get back on the interwebs this afternoon this ought to be all over, but thought you would enjoy the highlight, compliments of Commander Kurgan!

Panther is back with Sith Temple Dio Progress...
-- Posted by Tamer on Thursday, April 7 2016
"I have been away for a couple of weeks and wanting to get back on track with this. Since I have restricted the size of my temple to "wife" manageable proportions ;D and two months ago I defeated The Emperor on The Old Republic DH. I thought the best way to fill the space, would be to put in a corridor to no where.

As you will tell from the pictures, I have taped it together until I have all bits built and ready to be glued."

It is looking great to me. It was nice to see him back with an update!

Hasbro announces The Force Awakens Scene Creation!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 6 2016
As a part of the awesome Takodana Encounter Set I received I also received the above notice about a cool way to possible have your collection photos used by Hasbro in their booth at SDCC this year.

All you have to do is create a scene using your action figures and vehicles from The Force Awakens and using the hashtags:

#StarWars

#HasbroToyPic

you can submit your images directly from now till May 4th! I liked the idea so much I decided to further up the ante by running a The Force Awakens Challenge Contest for folks who decide to do this. Read the full details and get to creating folks!

Thanks once again the Kelsey and the fine folks at Litzky and Hasbro for this awesome custom creating idea!

Hasbro shows us their Takodana Encounter Pack...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 6 2016
Thanks to the fine folks at Litzky PR I had a most excellent package at my doorstep last evening. I got into it this morning and found it had a great set of the Takodana Encounter and a neat way for you to get into the Hasbro Booth at SDCC (details to follow this morning)! Get into our Facebook Page to see the full gallery.

Forceflow is back with a Mandalorian...
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 6 2016
"Mandalorian Legionnaire

This guy was a combination of "Huh, that's a neat helmet!" and "I wonder what the Mandos are up to c. The Force Awakens?" I imagined Mandalore as marginalized and left to lick its wounds after the fall of the Empire. Former Deathwatch members rose to power and established a fascist government. They don't like outsiders, but do like guns, armor, and aggressive expansion. The First Order looks to exploit this to undermine the Republic.

Who knows what they'll cook up in the official canon... he can always be a merc or bounty hunter.

Body is all G.I. Joe ROC and later, with Cobra BAT head and soft goods cape. I had a lot of fun with the limited color palette, especially inverting the helmet/visor color scheme. I also liked the challenge of matching his height to other Star Wars figs, since the Joes tend to have really long legs."

Wow, that soft goods cape really shows off the custom and looks highly movable too! Great custom figure!

BDC41866 gives us more!
-- Posted by Tamer on Wednesday, April 6 2016
"Well like most of you Ive been enjoying The Force Awakens in the coziness of my own home....Love those deleted scenes. Finished up a new bounty hunter while watching the movie. Ill also be working on a version of Moxin Tark, a bounty hunter from the West End RPG. More to come..."

I look forward to seeing his Moxin Tark too. We always need more Bounty Hunters in our SW Verse!

Get The Force Awakens from Amazon!
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 5 2016
Whatever format you like, blu-ray, theatrical version, digital with bonus features, amazon.com has you covered. Click here to go select the version you want.

I ordered it myself this morning (I know, I know).

MARK HAMILL AND KATHLEEN KENNEDY ANNOUNCE NEW STAR WARS: FORCE FOR CHANGE CHARITABLE CAMPAIGN...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 5 2016
"Star Wars: Force for Change will match up to $1,000,000 in donations made by fans to four charities between April 5th and May 4th.

Today, Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy and Star Wars veteran Mark Hamill announced a new campaign sponsored by CrowdRise in support of Star Wars: Force for Change, an initiative that inspires people to make a positive impact on the world. Starting April 5th, Star Wars: Force for Change will match the donations of Star Wars fans to four select charities up to $1,000,000!

To date, Star Wars: Force for Change has raised over $10,000,000 with the help of the amazing Star Wars community. This month-long campaign will lead up to “Star Wars Day” on May the 4th. The four select charities include the U.S. Fund for UNICEF in support of UNICEF Kid Power, American Red Cross, Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Make-A-Wish®.

“Star Wars fans are some of the most generous, thoughtful, and sympathetic people I have ever met,” says Lucasfilm President Kathleen Kennedy. “I am so proud of the charitable work they have done over the years and hope this month-long donation-matching campaign will go some way to express our sincere thanks for their tireless efforts.”

Over the course of the four-week period, which culminates at 11:59pm (PST) on May 4th, fans will be able to donate through CrowdRise.com/ForceForChange to these four charities and have their donations matched dollar for dollar up to $1,000,000.During the first week, the first 20 fans to raise or donate at least $500 will win a Blu-ray of The Force Awakens signed by the cast[i], with more incentives to come. All participants who enter will also have a chance to win an all-expense paid trip to Ireland, including Skellig Michael along the Wild Atlantic Way, the location of the dramatic final scene from The Force Awakens[ii].

Show your Force and visit CrowdRise.com/ForceForChange now for more details.

Starchaser creates a Noghri!
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 5 2016
"AjuntaPall just finished a Rebels style Thrawn. In an interesting coincidence, I just finished a Noghri project I've been planning for a long time (its been a hope of mine ever since I saw that Hasbro would not be producing the mock up figure that was part of a comic pack several years ago).

This is Kharnubackh, a Noghri warrior spared being part of the Death Commandos by the simple fact that he was part of a small clan captured by slavers and relocated to Dathomir after the Clone Wars for slave labor. Their fierce nature didn't lend itself to slavery and in an uprising they slew their masters and established a colony on a remote continent. Kharnubackh's clan was eventually discovered by New Republic surveyors and he entered society as a warrior like many of his distant cousins from Honoghr."

Now that is what I call a cool coincidence. I was so hoping to see this as the new movie. Oh well, no use to start whining this early in the day.

DaBooma is back with a TFA Update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 5 2016
"Hey guys!

In honor of The Force Awakens' physical home release on Tuesday, here's a Kylo (B)en custom I finished using a Marauder Task Force figure, and a 5 POA Armor Up Kylo Ren fig. The hood and belt (I think) is from a Revenge of the Sith Vintage Collection Palpatine (the one with the "fur" shaw), and the soft goods were taken from a VC Darth Vader.. I think. The retracted light saber hilt was made from a random light saber I had and a part of a blaster I cut and glued on. Alt head is a Prince of Persia figure

Enjoy!"

Talk about one fantastic looking version of Ren, all artied up and ready to take on the Rebs!

Dan "The Spectre" Kosa reviews Schleich Playset...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 5 2016
"Here are some shots of the Schleich "Wild Life" Cave Playset I picked up today.

This diorama is a really nice size. It comes in 4 major pieces (2 base halves, main rock and the cave cap) and assembles in minutes. I applied some Krazy Glue at a few points to make the parts fit snug and secure and to minimize the few tiny gaps when assembled (mostly where the cave cap connects to the main rock piece).

The plants are removable (the darker green one is also modular and breaks into 4 smaller plants) and there are several mounting points so you can customize their layout any way you would like.

The set comes with a lioness figurine and an antelope bone accessory. They are both expertly sculpted and painted. Their scale is almost perfect 1/18 scale so they can be used for display with just about any and all 3.75" and 4" action figure lines (I used a 30th Anniversary "G.I.Joe" Zombie-Viper as a model for this photoshoot).

I highly recommend this diorama playset for the current $19.99 price on www.walmart.com. it is an EXCELLENT piece at this price."

Thanks for the review Dan, it is indeed nice to see some set options for our action figures!

Ron Hembling shows new work on his Hoth Diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 5 2016
"Hi All,

More work done.

I destroyed the saddle and reins and straps and redid them by cutting leather strips and for the rings I used metal O-rings and 1/6th metal buckles.

The saddle is the one from the figure and I cut it out and covered it leather, I buggered up the top of the saddle by not gluing it down but once the figure is on top you wont notice it. T

The under cover was done by cutting out the design on paper and then using cotton wool to give it a fur/wool feel to it.

The rolls I used 1/6th fur lining from a WW2 German winter jacket and 1/6th buckles and the tent I used some old material and some sewer stick. The small pouch is from a 1/6th German MP40 pouch and the transmitters straps were covered with leather.

Ron"

Talk about one fantastic looking harness for the old beast. It is so much better than the stock version as you will soon see for yourself.

Brandon Flores is back with an ALIENS update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Tuesday, April 5 2016
Talk about one fantastic diorama. It was nice to see him send us in an update!

Our friends at Jeditemplerarchives.com announce Palitoy Tribute Poster!
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 4 2016
"Greetings Star Wars fans from Jedi Temple Archives! I'm
excited to send to you first a look at our upcoming Celebration Europe exclusive, a follow-up to our hugely popular Kenner poster: A Tribute toStar Wars Pailitoy Action Figures. This poster is meant to compliment our
Kenner poster, this time celebrating the European figure releases. Fromthe 12-back Palitoy card backs to the Tri-logo releases, a Full 216 different card backs are represented on this 18"x24" full color posters, modeled after our Kenner poster (so you know exactly the type of posteryou will be getting).


Hopefully you will be able to join us at Celebration Europe in London in July where we will be handing out a limited number of these posters for free over the weekend, but if not then once again you can secure this poster with a pre-order at our store. Here is the poster's product page:

http://store.jeditemplearchives.com/product/a-tribute-to-star-wars-palitoy-action-figures-celebration-europe-exclusive

Thanks again for supporting our Kenner poster. Without that support we would not have been able to produce this Palitoy poster."

Chuck and Paul and the gang do a great job over there and the artwork is just fantastic! I bet you can't just order one! Talk about hugging at our Star Wars Vintage Nostalgic heart-strings!

Dan "The Spectre" Kosa shares Vitruvian H.A.C.K.S. Gallery...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 4 2016
He got up close and personal with the new offerings from Boss Fight Studio. Needless to say, in person these looked even better than the pics on their site. Don't forget you can order these right now!

New images of Sideshow's Premium Format R2-D2 and C3PO...
-- Posted by Tamer on Monday, April 4 2016
"See the new photo galleries for the R2-D2 and C-3PO Premium Format™ Figures!"

Talk about looking fantastic folks!

Ron Hembling works on a Taun Taun!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 3 2016
"Hi All,

I am 90% done with the Tauntaun, I gave it a wash of Vallejo Medium Grey and then dry brushed with Vallejo Light Grey and then a 50/50 mix of Vallejo Light Grey and White. The face was repainted using Vallejo paints as were the claws/paws and nails.

Ron"

It sure looks fantastic at me. Like a smaller Sideshow statue or something along those lines.

Blizzard Forces shows us new TFA Vintage Cardbacks!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 3 2016
"Here are the next five designs for my TFA line, #26 to #30.

I've updated the reverse side as well, it now shows all 30 figures:

I hope you guys don't mind my current amount of output, but I've had a holiday week and am really motivated at the moment... How did that Queen song go again? "Don't stop me now..."

We definitely don't have a problem here at ISY seing TFA Vintage Cardback designs, I could look at em all day!

Rezakai is back with a new fan fiction chapter!
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 3 2016
"Captain Kai pulled himself up from his knees. The surviving bridge crew took their stations after they felt the Kumo was being pulled by the planet's gravity and started to go into free fall.

As he regained his footing Kai shouted towards the crew pits "HELM! Control?!" The blonde haired technician held onto the console as best he could through the shaking and replied up towards the captain from the starboard crew pit "Gone sir! All we have is emergency thrusters!" The Kumo started to shake as it's massive form sheared through the upper atmosphere of the planet. The survivors of the Kumo's bridge started to hold on to consoles and control planels as the star destroyer started a slow flat spin in its descent towards the planet."

That is just the first little bit to wet your appetite for more. Talk about a fun read. I am telling you fans come up with the greatest stories in regards to our favorite movie.

JDeck reviews a Marvel Star Wars Comic Leia Series...
-- Posted by Tamer on Sunday, April 3 2016
"I've gotten way behind on these Marvel Star Wars comics. I've read the Princess Leia comic collection. I gotta say I wasn't thrilled. The Comic is definitely geared towards a female audience, all of the main characters are females. Which isnt terribe , just not relatable to me. Some parts were interresting, like her flashbacks as a child on Alderaan, and some other little tid bits. Like I always wondered why Leia comforts Luke after losing Obi wan who up until recently was just his crazy next door neighbor. When Leia lost her entire freggin planet, including her family and friends. Early in the series the story addresses that situation. The story takes place right after the ceremony on Yavin IV. She gets this idea to drop everything she's doing to find any Alderaanian citizens on other planets to try to preserve Alderaan's heritage. It reminded me slightly of Mr. Spock from Star Trek when his planet was destroyed in Abrams' version. Honestly I lost interest halfway through. But for female Leia fans it would be great."

I am gonna have to get my daughter this comic series (sounds like a birthday present) and see what type of perspective we get from a female perspective. I am glad to hear they are thinking of our female fans when they are making Star Wars Products as sometimes it seems hard to find some (like action figures Hasbro)! Click here to go find the Marvel Princess Leia Comic and check it our yourself!

Ajunta Pall is back with Grand Admiral Thrawn!
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 2 2016
"Here's a custom Grand Admiral Thrawn I did rebels style. Hope the rumors are true and we get to see him in the show and possibly Rogue One."

I so agree, I can't wait to see him in REBELS! And any other place they decide to place him too. Long live the EU, er I mean Legendary Canon!

Rogue One Trailer leaked?
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 2 2016
There is a lot of speculation on its authenticity, but JDeck is keeping our Rogue One Area very active this week. There is even news that we are gonna see the venerable old T-47s again!

I hope this trailer is legit, seeing those Walkers in action once again really is hitting my nostalgia button this morning.

Darth Daddy is back with an Update...
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 2 2016
"For the month of April, Customs for the Kid will be posting a new Cantina custom every week for the next five weeks. The first in the lineup is Atheloe. Now Atheloe goes my a number of names, The Colonel, Solomahal, and the Hare Mouse. The head was a cast produced by I-AM-BOBA-FETT from Riff Valley Designs and was purchased through Facebook. I laid synthetic hair onto the headcast where his moustache was located to give the figure a special touch. I stole some hair off of one of Elias' old stuffed animals to make it happen."

Talk about one great looking figure, that synthetic hair looks perfect! And a new custom every week for the next five weeks sounds fantastic too!

Blizzard Force creates vintage cardbacks for Biggs!
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 2 2016
"I did a card of him about two weeks ago after a request. ;) Comes in two flavors..."

Yepper, still really, really enjoying seeing these custom creations. Ah, the vintage card glory years I so wish they would come back. Thanks to Blizzard Force they are!

Ron Hembling starts a new diorama...
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 2 2016
"Hi All,

Straight onto my next project and this time it will be Han on Tauntaun dio. So far I have glued and filled in the tauntaun's joints and will let dry for 8 hrs.

Ron"

He really does achieve great realism by filling in those joints.

Entertainment Earth celebrates 20 years!
-- Posted by Tamer on Saturday, April 2 2016
"Thank you for 20 remarkable years. To celebrate this milestone and show our appreciation, all in-stock orders will receive a free gift in April!

Since our website first launched in 1996, our company has distinguished itself as the authoritative source for action figures, toys, gifts, and collectibles, offering tens of thousands of unique items. Entertainment Earth now serves as the "go-to" source for fans, movie lovers, and the serious collector.

With 20 years under our belt, we strive to further advance our groundbreaking Mint Condition Guarantee™, Risk Free Shopping, Hassle Free 90-Day Returns, and Low Price Guarantee with the sagacity of an impactful business in an ever-evolving industry.

Thank you for making Entertainment Earth the fantastic company it is today and for what it will become in the years to come!

Jason Labowitz & Aaron Labowitz
Co-Founders of Entertainment Earth®"

Congratulations EE, here's to 20 more years! Click here to see their awesome selection of Star Wars Items!

The Force Awakens releases today!
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 1 2016
"Get the Digital HD 4 Days Early

Customers who purchase Star Wars: The Force Awakens in digital HD will be able to view the movie on Friday, April 1st, 4 days before the digital SD version. The Bonus Features version also includes a deleted scene "Tunnel Standoff" available exclusively on digital."

You can be watching this right now!

Blizzard Force shares new custom vintage cardbacks...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 1 2016
"I've been working on my third wave of TFA cards lately....10 more figures to bring the card count up to 30. :) Here are the first five of the bunch..."

Talk about looking fantastic on vintage style cardbacks. I still am having a hard time grasping why Hasbro won't do this for TFA and now Rogue One.

Blizzard Force is celebrating!
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 1 2016
"I wanted to inform you guys I've started a small contest on my Facebook page today, would be happy about anyone who'd like to participate. :) Here are the details:

Blizzard Force Customs - GIVEAWAY CONTEST

Having just reached 400 likes for my Facebook page, I wanted to say „thank you“ for all your continued support, likes and comments! To celebrate the 400 likes I’m having a small contest for everyone. :D

The winner will get his/her choice of one (1) of the following shipped worldwide (in an Ultimate Guard case) and free of charge:

- The Force Awakens - Kylo Ren (Hasbro 3,75“ figure on custom vintage-style cardback)
- The Force Awakens - Captain Phasma (Hasbro 3,75“ figure on custom vintage-style cardback)
- The Force Awakens - General Hux (Hasbro 3,75“ figure on custom vintage-style cardback)

All three choices are depicted together on the contest pic below. Contest rules are as follows:

To be eligible for a win you need to:

1. Like my Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/blizzardforcecustoms/ (if you haven’t done so already)

2. Comment under this post: Which Star Wars character is (or would be) your favorite on a vintage-style card (regardless if produced or unproduced)?

WINNER will be drawn on Sunday, April 3rd, 9pm CEST and contacted regarding his/her choice afterwards. Good luck…or rather: May the Force be with you… :D

The post you can comment in is also on the Facebook page...cheers!"

An update from our Facebook Page...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 1 2016
Kartoonister the Silencer II has finished up his Imperial Navy Trooper.

Larifari shows us a new speeder...
-- Posted by Tamer on Friday, April 1 2016
"New speeder with custom driver."

His speeder designs and builds are rapidly becoming the stuff of legend.