Small Scale Military Headquarters

Okay, I'm in the middle of a big new project that will be outside, and need a lot of "civilians". My concern is I'm sure figures and the Arizona sun are not very compatible together, and I can't keep everyone in the shade. So, I'm thinking of making a few molds of some figures, then casting them in a material that may take the elements better than the standard figure plastic. Don't want to go metal (such as white metal or lead), but can someone recommend something better than say concrete or plaster? Would resin be able to withstand the sun and heat? I'm not too concerned about keeping all the figure detail, but want something nicer that just figure-shaped blobs.

MM, I would think casting resin for models or fiber glass resin is the way to go. Just check the material data sheet that comes with the product. A few years ago I worked as a mold maker for an artist and all of the sculptures were cast in fiber glass resin. Many of the sculptures were outdoor pieces. The only problem you may have is the paint you use if you have concerns about the elements.

I second the resin choice MM. Texas sun is not as hot as Arizona, but it has to be close. I have personally cast some telephone poles and tank traps out of resin and sun does not bother them. Paint is the issue. The sun will definately hammer the paint. By the way. 4 more weeks to D-day. You know what I mean.


Mark

Thanks for the info. I'll have to try those out. I'm sure the paint will end up being the weak link.

do any one know of a good casting matrial for a 1:18 scale wwII u boat.

i was thinking of buying larg foam and shapeing it out and fiber glass it and removing the foam. but if you know of a better idea please let me know and if you know of a place that supplie large foam pease also let me know.

thank..

HEY BDO
a 1/18 U-boat would be almost 14 feet for a type VII and 15 1/2 ft. for a type IX you would be better with a wood frame overlaid with fiberglass
if your still thinking of one send me a PM and i'll show you how to get some plans from one of my clubs
i have a 1/40th type XXI that is almost 6 1/2ft. long
in 1/72 a type VII is 3 ft long i have 3 of them they take a lot of room

MM,
Casting material,clay, and resin is half off at Hobby Lobby right now.

Mark