Showing posts with label Marvel. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Marvel. Show all posts

Wednesday, 25 January 2012

How To Customize Marvel Comics Action Figures

Since the start of Marvel Comics, there have been hundreds of comic book characters created. Action figures for most of the characters have been produced at one time or another. One of the problems for collectors, and for people who order Marvel Universe action figures for others, is that the models sometimes do not accurately match the costume, gesture, or overall style of the character as it was originally seen. In these cases, it might be possible to customize the figurines to get a more accurate rendering of the desired character.

Changing the color of the comic book character can be a fairly easy process. If possible the individual parts, like the arms and legs, should be taken apart. A white matte primer can then be applied to the parts, either by using a spray primer with a spray box, or by dipping the parts into a small dish filled with liquid primer. Depending on the initial finish, some sanding might be helpful first. Once the primer has dried, a second and sometimes even third coating might be necessary. Using a different color, such as black or red, as the final coat can give more depth to certain color schemes.

The surface can be painted in a few different ways. Enamel paints are inexpensive and easy to use, but leave a glossy sheen on the surface and sometimes a sticky texture. Matte model paints work the best, but usually require a final coating with some type of fixative to prevent flaking or wearing off over time. By using techniques such as dry brushing or washes, the color and detail of the model can be greatly enhanced with a relatively small amount of work.

If the figurine is missing some three dimensional component, an item that is usually held in the hand, or if the facial expression is not quite right, then it is possible to actually add material to change the molded shape. This is commonly done with different types of epoxies and resins. The basic procedure is to sand down the area where a new part will be attached and then form the resin into the desired shape, sometimes using sculpting tools or knives. The finished piece can then be attached to the frame and allowed to cure.

Should all else fail, it is possible to order Marvel Universe action figures that have been customized by a third party. This can be somewhat expensive, however, and the results will vary depending on the skill of the company performing the customizations. Ultimately, however, the results will be a Marvel Comics action figure that matches what was originally seen.

Kimberly Garcia recommends The Comic Crew is an online store offering the best superhero comics, action figures, and collectibles; we offer high res images of all high value comics and almost all toys, because we know its important to collectors


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