Skaven Rogal Dorn WIP Feedback Appreciated A Conversion Project
Introduction
Hey guys! So, I've been working on this crazy project – a Skaven-themed Rogal Dorn tank for my Warhammer 40k army. It's still a work in progress (WIP), but I'm super excited about how it's turning out, and I'd love to get your feedback. I've always been a huge fan of the Skaven, their chaotic and scheming nature really resonates with me, and the Rogal Dorn is such an iconic Imperial Guard tank that I thought it would be awesome to combine the two. This project has been a real journey, from the initial concept to the current stage, and I've learned so much along the way. I've poured hours into converting and painting this thing, and I'm really trying to capture the essence of the Skaven while still making it look like a functional (well, as functional as Skaven technology gets!) war machine. I'm aiming for a look that's both menacing and ramshackle, with lots of details that hint at the Skaven's ingenuity and their tendency to cobble things together. One of the biggest challenges has been figuring out how to incorporate the Skaven aesthetic without making it look too cluttered or messy. The Skaven are all about overwhelming numbers and makeshift technology, but I also want the model to be visually appealing and easy to understand. It's a delicate balance between chaos and coherence, and I'm constantly tweaking things to get it just right. I'm also experimenting with different painting techniques to achieve a grimy, weathered look that really sells the idea that this tank has been through countless battles and seen better days. I'm using a combination of washes, drybrushing, and weathering powders to add depth and texture to the model, and I'm really happy with the results so far. But enough about the process, let's dive into the details of the build!
The Vision: A Skaven Twist on a Classic
My main goal with this Skaven Rogal Dorn project was to create something truly unique and eye-catching. I wanted to capture the essence of the Skaven – their cunning, their resourcefulness, and their propensity for all things chaotic – while still maintaining the imposing presence of the Rogal Dorn tank. The Rogal Dorn is, after all, a symbol of Imperial might, so twisting it into something Skaven-esque was a challenge I was eager to take on. I started by thinking about the Skaven's overall aesthetic. They're all about scavenged materials, jury-rigged technology, and overwhelming numbers. I wanted to incorporate these elements into the model without making it look too cluttered or incoherent. It's a fine line between chaos and visual appeal, and I've been constantly adjusting the design to find the right balance. One of the key decisions I made early on was to focus on adding Skaven-specific details rather than completely overhauling the tank's structure. I wanted it to be recognizable as a Rogal Dorn, but with enough Skaven flair to make it stand out. This meant adding things like Skaven iconography, extra armor plates made from scrap metal, and maybe even a few little Skaven crew members scurrying around on the deck. I also wanted to incorporate some elements of Skaven technology, like warpstone-powered weapons or maybe even a crude form of warp-lightning generator. This would not only add to the visual appeal of the model but also tie it into the Skaven's lore and background. The painting scheme was also a crucial consideration. I wanted something that would reflect the Skaven's grimy, subterranean lifestyle, so I'm leaning towards a palette of dark greens, browns, and grays, with touches of rust and corrosion to add to the weathered look. I'm also planning to use a lot of washes and drybrushing to create depth and texture, and maybe even some weathering powders to simulate dirt and grime. Overall, my vision for this project is a Skaven Rogal Dorn that's both intimidating and hilarious, a testament to the Skaven's ingenuity and their complete disregard for safety standards. It's a challenging project, but I'm having a blast bringing it to life, and I can't wait to see the finished result. I'm open to any suggestions or recommendations. Let's see what we can cook up together!
Key Conversions and Kitbashes
The heart of this project lies in the conversions and kitbashes I've done to transform the Rogal Dorn into a Skaven war machine. This is where the real fun begins, guys! I've spent hours rummaging through my bits box, scavenging for the perfect pieces to add that Skaven touch. One of the first things I did was to add extra armor plates made from plasticard and scrap pieces. These plates are deliberately uneven and haphazardly attached, giving the tank that classic Skaven look of cobbled-together technology. I've also used rivets and bolts to further emphasize the makeshift nature of the repairs. To really sell the Skaven theme, I've incorporated a lot of Skaven iconography. I've added Skaven glyphs and symbols to the armor plates, and I'm planning to add some Skaven banners and pennants as well. I've also used Skaven models and bits to create small details, like Skaven crew members peeking out from hatches or scurrying across the deck. These little touches really bring the model to life and add to the overall sense of chaos and activity. I've also made some more significant modifications to the tank's weaponry. I've replaced some of the original guns with Skaven-style weapons, like warpstone cannons and ratling guns. These weapons are not only visually distinctive but also tie the tank into the Skaven's technological arsenal. One of the most challenging conversions was the addition of a warp-lightning generator on the top of the tank. This was a complex build that involved a lot of cutting, gluing, and filing, but I'm really happy with how it turned out. The generator adds a dramatic focal point to the model and reinforces the Skaven's mastery of warp energy. I also experimented with different weathering techniques to make the conversions blend seamlessly with the existing model. I've used a combination of sanding, filing, and texturing to create a rough, worn look, and I've also applied washes and drybrushing to add depth and realism. Overall, the conversions and kitbashes have been a labor of love, and I'm really proud of the results. They've transformed the Rogal Dorn into something truly unique and Skaven-esque, and I can't wait to see it painted and ready for battle. What do you guys think of the changes so far?
Painting Progress and Techniques
Let's talk about the painting process, guys! This is where the model really starts to come to life. I've been experimenting with different techniques to achieve a grimy, weathered look that perfectly captures the Skaven aesthetic. The first step was to prime the model with a dark gray spray primer. This provides a good base for the subsequent layers of paint and helps to create a sense of depth and shadow. I then applied a basecoat of dark green to the main armor plates. I chose a dark green to reflect the Skaven's subterranean environment and their tendency to lurk in the shadows. Next, I started to add some variation to the basecoat by applying layers of lighter greens and browns. This helps to break up the monotony of the green and adds some visual interest to the model. I also used a technique called drybrushing to highlight the edges and raised areas of the armor plates. This involves using a stiff brush with a small amount of paint to lightly brush the surface of the model, creating a subtle highlighting effect. One of the most important techniques I've used in this project is washing. Washing involves applying a thin, watery paint to the model, which then flows into the recesses and crevices, creating shadows and adding depth. I've used a combination of black, brown, and green washes to create a grimy, weathered look. I've also used weathering powders to simulate dirt, rust, and corrosion. These powders are applied to the model with a brush and then fixed in place with a sealant. They add a realistic texture to the model and help to tell the story of its battles and adventures. To add some visual interest, I've also painted some of the smaller details in different colors. I've painted the metal parts with a metallic silver paint, and I've used red and yellow to highlight some of the Skaven iconography. I'm still experimenting with different painting techniques and color schemes, and I'm always open to suggestions. The goal is to create a model that's both visually striking and true to the Skaven's character and I would love to hear what you guys think. Any tips or tricks you think I should use?
Areas for Improvement and Specific Feedback
Okay, guys, this is the crucial part – where I need your honest feedback! I'm really looking to improve this Skaven Rogal Dorn, and your insights are invaluable. I have a few specific areas in mind where I think I could use some help, but I'm also open to any other suggestions you might have. One area I'm particularly concerned about is the overall balance of the model. I want it to look chaotic and Skaven-like, but I also don't want it to be too cluttered or visually overwhelming. Are there any areas that seem too busy or unbalanced? Are there any details that you think I should remove or simplify? Another area I'm looking for feedback on is the color scheme. I'm happy with the grimy, weathered look I've achieved so far, but I'm wondering if there are any other colors I should incorporate to add some visual interest. Should I add more pops of color, or should I stick with the muted tones? I'm also curious about the placement of the Skaven iconography. I've added Skaven glyphs and symbols to various parts of the model, but I'm wondering if they're in the right places. Are there any areas where I should add more iconography, or any areas where I should remove it? In addition to these specific areas, I'm also open to general feedback on the model. Do you have any overall impressions or thoughts? Is there anything that you particularly like or dislike? Any suggestions for how I can take this project to the next level? I know that constructive criticism can be tough to hear, but I'm genuinely eager to improve my skills and create the best possible model. So, please don't hold back – I want to hear your honest opinions, guys! Let me know what you think, and let's work together to make this Skaven Rogal Dorn truly awesome. What would you do to make this model better?
Conclusion: Looking Ahead
So, that's where I'm at with my Skaven Rogal Dorn (WIP), guys! It's been an awesome journey so far, and I'm super excited to see how it turns out. I really appreciate you taking the time to check out my project and give me your feedback. Your insights are incredibly valuable, and they'll definitely help me to make this model even better. I'm already buzzing with ideas for the next steps. I'm planning to spend some more time refining the painting, adding more weathering effects, and maybe even incorporating some additional details based on your suggestions. I'm also thinking about creating a custom base for the model, something that will really showcase its Skaven-esque nature. Maybe a ruined cityscape or a subterranean tunnel system? I'm not sure yet, but I'm excited to explore the possibilities. This project has been a great learning experience for me. I've learned a lot about converting and kitbashing models, and I've also experimented with new painting techniques and weathering effects. It's been challenging at times, but it's also been incredibly rewarding. The best part of this hobby is the community, and I'm so grateful for the support and encouragement I've received from fellow hobbyists. Sharing my work and getting feedback is what makes this hobby so much fun, and I'm always eager to connect with other people who share my passion. So, thank you again for your feedback, guys! I really appreciate it. I'll be sure to keep you updated on my progress, and I can't wait to show you the finished model. Stay tuned for more Skaven shenanigans! And remember, yes-yes, spread the word!
