SPA Modeler

I got nothing to add except incredible work. I can’t wait to see this one finished. I wish I could see this in person too.

Thanks Bobby.
Back to the base.
First using rough sandpaper, I sanded the base to remove any sharp peaks caused by painting on the gel.



Next, I mixed the color for the sea. Since the Akagi was in deep water the sea will be a dark blue. I used acrylic tube paint mixed with water to spray. The mix was 1 part green, 3 parts grey and 7 parts blue.





Once that was dry I added some white to my blue mixture to color the water where it churned and caused bubbles.



Satisfied with that I sprayed acrylic varnish thinned with water to protect the coats and give it an initial sheen.



Possibly tonight I'll set the Akagi in the base and start on the cotton.

I’d say to add a tad bit of green for your Akagi base. The Pacific tends to be a bit greener than the Atlantic. But if your past that point already...

Yeah, it's tough to get the right shade.I figure since she's in DEEP water that it would be quite blue but your right, the Atlantic is typically more blue than the Pacific.

Wow! That looks really cool!

Ok, I gotta ask.... what are the dimension of this ocean base?

12x34 A little wider than I like but it fits into one of those Hobby Lobby wall decor frames. I get them when they have a 50% off sale and remove whatever sentiment is in it.

I situated the Akagi into the base and started the cotton for the wake and turbulence. I know, she look she's riding a little high but I found that after all the additions to the base it changes that perception. Also, she's up at the bow and rolling to port slightly.

I used acrylic varnish to attach the cotton, just pulling off the slightest amount. You don't need much and can always add more not less. Also using acrylic gloss medium, I started crafting the bow wave.




I continues wit the cotton on areas where there should be turbulence and wakes. let it dry overnight and took some pictures out in the light.






Liking what I'm seeing, I started the multiple varnish process. I'll brush on 3 to 4 coats to add depth to the water. On my last coat I'll add some more cotton the the stern and other areas here and there. There is really no wrong way to do it. You can overdo the effect but if you ever study a wake on a boat or ship just about anything goes as long as the waves are believable. I feel like I'm rambling.

The first coat of the varnish applied and waiting to dry. This process takes several days but will dry with a high gloss.



And my helper is trying to pick out his new build.

Man I love the way you do the water bases. Just incredible.

Love your helper too!