writes:I was out gaming a while back, and someone complimented the host's 1:285th scale modern vehicles. He replied something like, "Thanks, but I didn't paint those. I had them painted by Fernando Enterprises in Sri Lanka."
Now, Why Didn't I Think of That?
I've been sending models to Fernando Enterprises for years, and I never thought once of sending any 1:285th (6mm) models! Well, maybe that's because I like painting them. But I have a small mountain of them, and I'll never get around to painting all of them…
So I decided to send a 'sampler' to see if I liked how they turned out. The models I sent were WWII American, and you might be thinking, "Well, couldn't anyone paint olive drab on vehicles?" Well, yes, but I'm a little picky. I like to see some highlights and shadows. I want more than a spray can of olive drab. And I don't like sloppy.
I am also hoping that the painting style will mix well with the models I have already painted.
I sent three types of models, a few dozen models total, off to Sri Lanka to see if I would like the way they turned out. (Models supplied by C-in-C.)
The Painted Models
These are the painted models back from Sri Lanka, which I've assembled and based (using Litko 3mm-thick wooden bases and FlexSteel.)
When the models arrived, the components were packaged individually in tiny ziplog bags. This works surprisingly well to protect delicate parts and paintjobs.
M4M52 Sherman 105
This model has two pieces: hull and turret.
Ambulance
This model has two pieces: vehicle and top (including the top of the cab). The top snaps into place.
¾-Ton Truck
The model has two pieces: truck and cover.
Conclusions
The painting style is different from mine, but I like it. I like their attention to detail. I'll be sending more to Sri Lanka…