Andriy Oblamsky is a Technical Artist at Pingle Studio, who creates amazing collections of 3D figurines in his free time. dev.ua asked Andriy how this hobby came into his life and whether such leisure time helps him relax from work.
Andriy Oblamsky is a Technical Artist at Pingle Studio, who creates amazing collections of 3D figurines in his free time. dev.ua asked Andriy how this hobby came into his life and whether such leisure time helps him relax from work.
I think I first came across modeling back in school. But I started to fully engage in this business closer to the age of 30.
I remember one of my first models was a set of an army from feudal Japan. That was the first time I learned that you have to dilute paint, and that it’s a whole science. My soldiers looked like they were painted with a fence brush — but it was interesting, and I didn’t stop.
I was inspired to work on small models by the idea that it could be an interesting experience to try to create something not only in digital format.
It’s great to have a hobby that you want to spend your free time on outside of work. I thought I could use my 3D artist skills in this business, because a lot of the processes are actually similar. Especially when it comes to working with shapes and texturing.
Ultimately, I’ve always liked the genre itself. With globalization and the increasing knowledge base, new opportunities have emerged to implement my ideas in this direction.
Without delving into the diversity of areas of work with materials and crafting, we can distinguish two main types of plastic models with which to start working.
The first is the mold, which is a monopolist in the model market. It is a cheap method that allows for mass production of parts.
The second is 3D printing. Photopolymer printing is best suited for artistic products. It has become especially popular in the last 5–10 years, as 3D printers have become much cheaper and are now convenient in size, they can even fit in a small room or workshop.
Both types require certain skills, but they also have their advantages. To implement all your ideas, it is probably worth familiarizing yourself with both.
The process itself is probably the most interesting part of creating miniatures. It can be perfectly complemented by listening to an audiobook or music. Personally, I prefer working with ready-made kits, because, in fact, you already have everything you need. You don’t have to worry that some parts won’t fit together, and only sometimes you have to apply your skills in preparing and gluing parts.
It is advisable to update your toolkit, as this not only allows you to do the work faster, but also adds comfort.
It’s interesting to try new techniques. And yes, it happens that a model sits unfinished for half a year — I don’t force myself to finish it «just to tick a box.»
There were times when I «burned out» and put my hobby on hold. In fact, I think it’s completely normal, because when a hobby becomes a challenge, it turns into work. If you already have one professional job that you devote all your time to, it’s very difficult to work on a hobby with the same dedication. You need to take breaks, but sometimes you have to spend extra time to refresh your skills after a long break.
The entire process of creating a miniature should be carried out according to a set plan.
First, the parts should be cleaned of any casting or printing residue and aligned before gluing. Then comes priming, painting, and finishing with detailing.
I like to buy materials, tools, and supplies. Every project is a work plan. It’s fun to work from one stage to the next and try new techniques.
To start, it’s better to choose a small number of models to avoid unnecessary fatigue or discomfort.
There are several different painting techniques. All of them are appropriate and suitable for different styles of execution. The most common are: HandPaint, Filtering, Contrast, Weathering, Chipping. You can find a lot of information on all of these techniques on the Internet. Each author performs them in his own way, so there is definitely an option that suits you.
When I don’t want to add anything anymore and I’m afraid of making it worse than it was, then I consider the work completed. However, sometimes unfinished models sit on my second table for half a year. We need to work on the balance in this matter.
I would recommend starting small to see if it’s a good fit for you. My first kit, with paint and building blocks, cost me less than $50.
However, over time, experience, and with it — appetites, can grow, and you should be prepared for the fact that the free space on the table will start to run out. The market offers many different options on the topic of modeling. The average cost of a set varies from 50 to 250 dollars. Much of this can be purchased on third-party import platforms or in specialized stores.
A certain part of the budget should be allocated to tools.
Start small. Initially, you need to purchase a standard set: pliers, glue and brushes. Over time, the tasks will become more complex, and this will require considering additional tools to purchase.
What I would also recommend paying attention to is a quality airbrush and storage system, various organizers. Don’t forget about cleaning and protection products.
I use Pinterest and PureRef to find references. I’m used to working with this pair since I was working with 3D modeling. If you have access to an STL (3D printable file), it’s a good idea to throw it into a texturing program. Personally, I like 3D-Coat. It has a HiPoly draft painting function, plus settings for exporting for printing.
The main mistake is the desire for a quick result. Speed will appear when experience comes. However, if you consider this a hobby, there is no point in rushing at all. I advise you to spend as much time as possible and immerse yourself in the process.
This is really interesting. There is now a wide variety of crafting trends and models of varying complexity.
It’s a meditative process. When you work with something with your own hands, it really allows you to switch from your everyday routine and create something beautiful at the same time.
This can be a way of expressing yourself artistically. Although not as individual as creating sculptures or paintings, each work will still contain a piece of its author.
Thus, modeling combines a creative process, a variety of options to choose from, and the opportunity to apply skills in a practical way. This hobby allows you to focus on creating physical objects that can be both a way of relaxation and artistic expression.
I have a dream. I really like large models — ¼ or even 1/3 scale. Especially characters from movies, books or games. It would be cool to create something like that. However, the larger the models in size — the less free space remains at home. It would probably be good after 50 years to open your own store and sell stuff, while simultaneously conducting master classes.
