So here's a throwback to the classic Iron Man design, drawn by John Romita Jr. Have to admit, even though it's considered a "classic" look, it's still the most memorable version of him. Sure, the modern armor looks great, very high-tech, streamline, state-of-the-art. But of all the suits Shellhead's got, this one is unique because it shows his eyes and not just white outs. It's not completely machine (like Terminator) there's a man inside. This suit apparently was made of some kind of hybrid chain-mail alloy that folded neatly in his briefcase. He's sure come a long way, especially now he's got the Extremis armor, that he controls telepathically. Is that even hygienic? eesh.
Did the sculpt work on the helmet right over Omega Red's head, keeping the teeth showing. Made the rest of the armor, detailed the grooves, sanded it. The armor around the shoulders and gauntlets were made 1st by cutting a short, thin strip of plastic. Bent the strip into the shape of a tire rim, glued it and attached it over the area. Sculpted on top of the strip, using it as guide, to help keep the sculpting in-line and from going lopsided. The chest plate was made by cutting a circular shape from clam shell package. It was painted yellow on the underside, with the clear side of the plastic up and sculpted around. Used a base gold metallic paint with red acrylic overtop. Had to use a few layers of red to give it a solid finish.
Real glad to have been able to keep all of the original figure articulation. He fits right in with the Marvel Legends gang and does a surefire job at punishing some fodder figures. They've been bad, they tried to escape.

Gotta salute those customizers still churning them out. Thought about quitting a few times - just so many other "life" things to contend with. But there's still a lot of exciting customs remaining untapped that need to get done dammit! It's a fun hobby, but sure is time-consuming! It takes stamina (+ $$$) to keep on making them AND to make them eye-candy worthy. So props to those still tenacious and creative at it. If it wasn't for the inspiring work here in the Realm, would've ran out of steam long time ago!
Thanks for looking!

06/22/08