Sera’s Blog 2019

You can now follow the latest news from Staples & Vine with Sera’s Blog.
Updates from the workbench with news on the latest aircraft being sculpted.
I hope you enjoy the blog and I appreciate your feedback.
You can email me directly via sera@staplesandvine.com
You can keep up to date with my news by following me in the social media links at the bottom of the page.

December 18th 2019

Hi everyone, sorry for the radio silence over the past few weeks but as you will see a lot as been going on. I am totally up to date with all the orders and now won’t be casting again until January. I also got ill – but got better! However the main news is the announcement of my next releases…

Earlier this year I bought a new precision airbrush specifically for Luftwaffe mottling and this latest release, the Focke Wulf Fw 190D-13 ‘Yellow 10’, is my first aircraft sprayed using this amazing piece of equipment.

This ultra rare D-13 variant of the ‘Dora’ line was captured by allied forces at the end of the war and shipped back to America. It lay dismantled and derelict for many years but now after a painstaking restoration is preserved at the ‘Flying Heritage and Combat Armor Museum’. ‘Yellow 10’ is a limited edition of only 10 worldwide and comes with two new figures exclusive to the model. So if you would like one give me a call, send me an email or order through the site. I don’t think they will be around for long.

January 1st 2020 marks the 75th anniversary of ‘Operation Bodenplate’. This was the last major offensive by the Luftwaffe of the War. I plan to release two new 1/48 models to reflect this anniversary; the Messerschmitt Bf 109K-4 and North American P-51D.

The Bf 109K-4 was one of the last major variants of the 109 series and this particular aircraft, ‘Black 3’, took part in ‘Operation Bodenplate’. It attacked aircraft on the ground at Asch in Belgium – home of the 352nd Fighter Group, only to be shot down by anti-aircraft fire.

Finally a glaring void in the 1/48 range is going to be filled – the P-51D, commonly known as the ‘Mustang’. This particular P-51D was the aircraft of Lt. Col. John Meyer who led the 352nd Fighter Group on January 1st 1945 when the Luftwaffe attack took place. He took off under fire and managed to shoot down an Fw 190 before his undercarriage had fully retracted. For his leadership he was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.

You can read more about these aircraft by clicking on any of the images above or watch my latest Vlog on YouTube by clicking on the image below.

That just leaves me to wish you all a very ‘Merry Christmas’ and a ‘Happy New Year’. Thank you all for your custom and support this year , you can look forward to many exciting new releases in 2020 – I have a lot planned already. All the best, Sera.

November 20th 2019

The customer orders for the P-38 Lightnings are now all completed and dispatched. Lots of good feedback – thank you everyone. They took a lot longer than I had planned but I’m really pleased with the standard I have achieved.

I now have to catch up with other orders before starting on the next releases which are…. Oh! I forgot you don’t know what they are yet! I will be announcing what I am up to in the next email newsletter so make sure you are subscribed to get the news when it drops. – it won’t be long now. To subscribe just fill in your details at the foot of any page of the website. All the best, Sera.

November 3rd 2019

I’ve been working really hard on the P-38s this week. They should all be assembled by Tuesday then it’s onto paint.
In other news I have now reached 100 subscribers on my YouTube channel. This is massive for me as it allows me to apply for a custom url making it easier for people to find my channel. It has been a lot of hard work over the past few months. I feel like an athlete who has just finished a race – absolutely drained, but inspired to do more.

As ever there is a lot going on behind the scenes. I put a lot into the videos and try to make them as informative as possible. They are an extension to the blog showing how I do what I do. ‘Project Maus’ seems to be very popular as viewers follow my journey of discovering new techniques and materials for future projects. Talking of future projects I already have 2020 well planned. Working far in advance means I can focus more on the day to day and be as productive as possible.
Thanks to all my customers who check in here and don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel. All the best, Sera.

October 27th 2019

This week has gone by so quickly. I have been deeply engrossed in P-38s and other production and all has been going well. In the evenings I’ve been working on my latest vlog and dipping a toe into ‘Project Maus’ for ‘light relief’. In actual fact I think almost every moment has been model related one way or another. In short it has been a great week and to finish it off here’s Sera’s Vlog #12 all about getting the P-38 Lightnings into production. I hope you enjoy it – don’t forget to subscribe to my channel! So far I have 87 subscribers and would love to reach 100 by the end of the year.

October 20th 2019

A busy but frustrating week comes to an end. Flypast and Aeroplane magazines want to review the P-38s so I had to re-photograph the Lightnings for them. P-38 production is going well with all orders now cast and ready for assembly. I have also been working on the finishing touches to a new project that is due for release in the next few weeks so make sure you are signed up to the newsletter to avoid missing out! Everything was going so well on Thursday that I decided to reward myself with some pistachios and my favourite tipple, some Jack Daniels. That didn’t go well… I had a bad reaction to the pistachios and spent Friday in bed in a lot of pain and frustration. I eventually managed to get some computer work done finishing off histories and profiles for the next aircraft releases. So at least I got some work done.
There is a lot of responsibility running a business on your own especially when you have to be proficient in so many different skills – at least I get plenty of variety. Sometimes though I do get a bit overwhelmed but as long as I stay organised and take breaks I get there in the end. I am very fortunate to be doing something I enjoy.

October 11th 2019

The P-38 Lightnings are finally in production! I looked back to see when my last all new 1/72 release was and shockingly it was in 2016. Co-incidentally it was also a Lightning. Hopefully the next gap won’t be three years.
Now I realise why so many people love the Lightning. It is a really good looking aircraft, sleek powerful and a heavy hitter. You can get straight to the Lightnings by clicking on the images below.

The P-38G ‘Miss Virginia’ was flown by Lt Rex Barber who famously shot down and killed Admiral Yamamoto. You can read the full history on the Miss Virginia page.

The P-38J ‘Marge’ was the aircraft of Captain Richard Ira Bong who became America’s highest scoring ace of all time with 40 confirmed kills. His aircraft carries a photograph of his sweetheart Marge on the nose and this has been faithfully recreated.

To find out what my next releases are make sure you are signed up to my newsletter. Just enter your details at the bottom of any page.

September 26th 2019

It’s full steam ahead on P-38 masters this week and progress is good. I try and set myself targets to get things done by a certain date but inevitably when it comes to sculpting things take longer than planned. This morning I spent 2 hours sculpting the metal master for the joystick. It’s amazing just how long it takes to clean up all the parts and fit them together. All of the parts are now cleaned up and fit together so now all I have to do is add the pannel lines, control surfaces and fine detail. Then it’s time for mouldmaking.
You can see from the images below that the main fuselage and wing is now cleaned up and the booms, nacelles and cockpit are starting to make the P-38 come to life.

The more time I spend sculpting the P-38 the more I realise just what a good looking aircraft it is and just how big it is. I really can’t wait to get it moulded and cast which should be next week.
In other news the company I bought my new 3D printer from have just attended a show at Birmingham and featured my M4A3E2 Sherman ‘Cobra King’ on their stand. If you look at the image below you will see the print of the tracks on the screen at the back of the stand.

That’s about it for this week’s blog post now it’s back to the P-38, it won’t sculpt itself.

September 18th 2019

P-38 update – the metal masters are cast and tomorrow I start the clean up and fit stage. This week I have been working on the figures for the P-38. I moulded and cast a 1/72 scale blank figure which I have used as an armature to create the new figures. There are two new figures for each P-38. As you can see below the metal armatures have been posed and they have been ‘dressed’ with Milliput uniforms. I am now making silicone moulds of these masters to produce metal masters of the figures. It’s a bit complicated but it will allow me to refine the figures in metal to make them even more accurate. Bare in mind that these figures are only 25mm / 1 inch tall.

I should be posting more P-38 photos soon as the project is now gaining some momentum. On another subject the latest ‘Project Maus’ video is now up on Youtube here. I now have 82 subscribers on YouTube, 135 on Facebook and almost 2100 on Instagram so my plan for global domination with Winston is accelerating!

September 11th 2019

I am working flat out on the new Lockheed P-38 which is coming together really well. The 3D printed parts have now been cleaned up and are being moulded in cold cure silicone ready to be cast in pewter.

As you will have seen in ‘Sera’s Vlog #11’ on YouTube I have 3D printed a basic human figure in 1/72 scale. This I am moulding and casting in pewter to form an armature which I can then build up from to create new figures. This should speed up sculpting and give me the ability to create more dynamic poses.

I have also moulded the latest parts for ‘Project Maus’ which is coming on well. In total I have made 14 silicone moulds in the past couple of days so lots of mould cutting and casting tomorrow. There should be a new episode coming out in the next 7 days and ‘Sera’s Vlog #12’ coming out when I have the P-38s in production. I will then be announcing the next releases. So make sure you sign up to my newsletter and subscribe to my YouTube channel to get the latest news.

August 24th 2019

At last I have completed all my outstanding orders. Next week I start work on the Lockheed P-38 Lightnings, I can’t wait to get sculpting again. As you will have seen I am already well advanced with this project. All the 3D printing is finished and yesterday I received the bronze undercarriage from the casters. The castings look perfect, the wheel spokes have come out particularly well.
In other news the Messerschmitt Bf 110G-4 and Mosquito NF MK II are now SOLD OUT. You can still refer back to these and all my sold out / withdrawn models in the ‘Struck off charge’ section of the website.

I hope you are all enjoying the fine weather we are having right now. Don’t forget you can see more of what I am up to on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube.

August 18th 2019

All is going well, although I fear I have too much going on! As well as production I have several other projects running and I am researching others. I am also tracking down new suppliers for future projects. It is all very exciting but it does put me in a spin.
I have been reinvesting in the business buying new and better tools in my ‘Quest For Quality’, here are a couple of my latest purchases.

Firstly I have bought a new airbrush specifically for mottling. It’s a ‘Harder and Steenbeck Evolution Silverline two in one’ from www.modelinovations.co.uk It is a dual action airbrush and can spray the finest of lines so now I just have to get practising and learn how to get the best out of it. It is made in Germany and is truly a thing of beauty. The quality is outstanding.

These odd things are called ‘123 blocks’ and are machined from steel. They measure 25 x 50 x 75 mm (1 x 2 x 3 inches) and are useful for setting up objects squarely without moving. These are made in Austria and will help me set things up when I am sculpting. People often find they a re useful for all sorts of things. I’ve been meaning to get some for ages.
I am confident that with the steps I am taking Staples and Vine will go from strength to strength. So many of you have been customers for many years, and you will have seen how the models have evolved and how I have taken on more and more challenging projects. You will gather I am pretty well motivated to produce some of the best collectable models available today. Thanks for coming on my journey. Sera

August 10th 2019

I’ve just uploaded the latest episode of ‘Project Maus’ to my YouTube channel. I am discovering so many new methods and techniques, the project is genuinely useful, and what’s more I get a pretty cool model at the end of it. What’s not to like. Seriously though it really helps to give me confidence in my abilities, and helps me find out my strengths and weaknesses so that I can improve my creative skills. Click on the image below to see the latest episode.

August 5th 2019

Production is going well, with virtually all my outstanding orders now assembled and sprayed. The assembly stage takes the longest as all the castings have to be cleaned up by hand and carefully fitted together as efficiently as possible. It always takes longer when the batch is of mixed subjects as I have to co-ordinate the gluing, cleaning up and filling with models that all have different sequences. Painting can also be complicated as I usually end up with a workbench with 20 jars of paint on the go. It may seem chaotic but it works, trying to sequence what is dry and ready for the next colour is a bit of a challenge, but fun.

In some of my spare time I have been working on ‘Project Maus’ and have just got the turret into primer. Here’s a close up of some of the detail where I have experimented with adding textures to the surface.

I am currently filming episode episode 4 of ‘Project Maus’ where you will be able to see the turret in all it’s glory. I am really pleased with the result so far. It has allowed me to explore and discover so many new techniques which I can use to develop better models for the Staples and Vine ranges.

July 25th 2019

It’s too hot! 30 degrees C here and Winston isn’t happy. The workshop isn’t too bad, at least it doesn’t get too much direct sun. Fortunately, I cast all the outstanding orders last week but it did take almost 2 days to get everything cast. At least it wasn’t as hot then as it is today. This week I have been cracking on with cleaning up and assembly of the castings. Things are going well, it is always a bit of a puzzle trying to find the most efficient sequence to assemble a variety of models but it’s a problem I enjoy.

I took a few hours out on Monday to visit ‘Saunton Sands’ which is nearby. I had a good walk and a great lunch (healthy salad). It is a well used movie location and was used for the closing scene in the film ‘Dunkirk’ with the Spitfire. I tend to take breaks at odd times as I usually find myself working one way or another at weekends or in the evening (like now).

Every Tuesday evening I go to the ‘North Devon Model Society’, my local model club. It has been really useful I’ve met some great guys and very talented modellers. The 120mm Mexican on horseback is scratch-built and incredibly detailed. Another modeller, Bob (‘The AFV Factory’ on Facebook), bought along his 1/35 scale Maus to compare with my 1/24 scale model. Seeing the 1/35th model helped me iron out a few details. ‘Project Maus’ is making good progress, I hope to get the turret into primer soon, film ‘Project Maus #4’ and then crack on with the lower hull, wheels and tracks. I’ve learned a lot at the model club and hope to put some new techniques into practice in the future.

This is some of what I have been up to recently. Things are going well and in a few weeks time I shall be full time on the P-38s. I also have to do the artwork and histories for the two 1/48 aircraft that are coming after the Lightnings – lots to do. Have a great weekend everyone. Sera.

July 16th 2019

It’s great having a 3D printer (two is better) it allows me to make progress sculpting new projects while I am working on production. They have saved me an awful lot of time and made me so much more productive. It is very hard to quantify but I reckon I have a time saving of about 10 – 15% and I am producing a better product. What is best of all is I don’t get filthy, which I used to with Milliput.
I have made my latest Vlog about how I get started on a project, in this case the P-38. I manage to get all the parts 3D printed and start cleaning them up. Just click on the thumbnail below to watch Vlog #11. WARNING – things don’t go well!

I hope you enjoy my video and subscribe to my YouTube channel. I’m slowly getting more subscribers (63 to date). All the best Sera.

July 6th 2019

It may seem that things are going slowly at the moment, but in reality I am a bit like the proverbial swan. On the surface calm serenity, below the water I am working really hard on production. I have recently had a lot of orders and I am methodically working through them. Sherman production is going well. They initial batches are all painted, and will be completed next week, then I am onto outstanding aircraft. The 3D printers have been getting a good workout, and now all the P-38 parts that need to be 3D printed are ready for me to start the sculpting stage.
My 3D work is normally carried out in the evenings and weekends as are my YouTube videos. I have just finished a new ‘intro’ sequence for my videos, I hope you like it.

This is the first time I have embedded a video into a web page. As you know I like to try and learning new skills and techniques, often just taking baby steps, always attempting to move forward more than backwards – I hope. I try and stay as organised as possible with white boards and lots of lists. So far things seem to be working out OK! Which is a relief. There is always a lot going on behind the scenes. I spend a lot of time planning, researching and checking future projects to make sure every new project is as accurate technically and historically as it can be.

June 28th 2019

Hi everyone, a quick rundown on what’s going on. I am full time on Sherman production which is going well. I am assembling them in small batches otherwise I will be in chaos with parts everywhere. It is so important to stay organised that way I can be as efficient as possible with production. They really look good lined up together, this is the first batch. I am currently assembling the next batch then they will all be sprayed and finished together.

A brand new journal has just come out ‘Iron Cross’ which documents the history of the German military forces from 1914 to 1945. It is very well produced and has many fascinating articles. If you see it take a look I am sure you will be impressed.

In the meantime I have also been working on the masters for the P-38 Lightning, or should I say the 3D printers have. Due to size constraints the cockpit and wing have been printed on the Ultimaker while the detailed parts are printed on the new Precision 1.5. I had to get the undercarriage started asap as they are going to be cast in bronze so they will be super strong and nice and slim.

As you can see things are a bit busy but I am making good progress. I plan to finish the Shermans next week and dispatch the week after. That’s the plan… Have a good weekend everyone and I hope you enjoy the fine weather we are having. Sera.

June 22nd 2019

This has been a very busy week! My oldest aircraft orders are dispatched and I am now onto Shermans. They are all cast and I have been working hard cleaning up and assembling them.
I took Friday off and spent the day walking on Dartmoor. I had a great time, the weather was kind and I had a very pleasant picnic in an old quarry.

So now with my batteries recharged I am ready to get back to the Shermans on Monday. Have a good weekend everyone. Sera

June 14th 2019

Hi everyone! It has been a crazy week – so much going on. I have had a great response to my D-Day advertising, and have been working hard to catch up on my oldest orders. Next week I shall start on Sherman production. I have plenty of fresh metal in stock and the Sherman bases have arrived.
I caught a serious bug last week which laid me low for a few days and made me very frustrated, but I’m fine now. I have been pushing things a bit hard recently and plan to take some RnR to recharge my batteries. So, I am going to take next Friday off to go walking over Dartmoor!
I have also joined my local model club ‘The North Devon Model Society’ (link here) and went to my first club night this Tuesday. I was made very welcome and met some very talented modellers with a wide variety of interests. I went more for the social aspect of the club and thoroughly enjoyed myself. If you are interested in model-making I thoroughly recommend joining a club you will meet some fascinating people.
Right, back to work those aircraft won’t base themselves. Have a good weekend everyone. Sera

June 3rd 2019

My latest volg is now live on YouTube where you can see just how I take the 3D printed parts and refine them to make the masters. I also try out a new mouldmaking technique. I hope you enjoy my video. Sera

May 27th 2019

If you have signed up to my newsletter you will know by now what the next tank release will be. For those of you out of the loop here it is; the Panzer IV Ausf. F2. This particular Panzer IV is from the Eastern front in the summer of 1942 when as part of the 14th Panzer Division it took part in the assault on Stalingrad.
You can see from the profile drawing it is quite different to my previous tanks and will give me a few more design and production problems to resolve. All of these images have been generated from the 3D computer model I have created for The Panzer IV Ausf. F2. Clicking on any of the images below will take you to the Panzer IV Ausf. F2 page where you can read the history and see more images.

I have the two tanks following on from the Panzer IV Ausf. F2 also well planned and advanced on the 3D modelling. My plan is to release a German tank, followed by an allied tank, followed by a German tank, and so on. I hope to release a new tank every eight months or so. Well that’s the plan. If there are any tanks you think I should be especially looking at please send me an email. It’s a bit like being a kid in a sweet shop – so many great subjects to choose from. The problem is not so much choosing a type of tank but selecting a specific tank with a history, and good evidence as to how it appeared in service.
In terms of a release schedule I will be working on the P-38s after I have dispatched all the Sherman ‘Cobra King’ orders, then I will be releasing two new 1/48 aircraft, and then onto the Panzer IV Ausf. F2. To keep up to date with the schedule I have expanded the ‘NEW RELEASES’ page on the website which will give you a ‘quick check’.

As the 75th Anniversary of D-Day approaches you may also like to take a look at the latest issue of ‘Britain at War’. It is a D-Day special and is packed full of relevant articles. I usually find with magazines that they are thin, overpriced and full of pictures with very little text. This is certainly not the case with ‘Britain at War’. There is a lot to read and the adverts are pretty good too. Especially the one on page 41!

May 23rd 2019

The M4A3E2 Sherman ‘Cobra King’ is now in full production and I am so pleased with it. The level of detail from the new 3D printer is fantastic. It was a bit of a learning curve working with a new material but I now have a pretty good handle on its strengths and weaknesses. ‘Cobra King’ is in its winter camouflage as it took part in the relief of Bastogne on December 26th 1944. It carries the period correct air identification panel on the rear. I have carefully matched the decals to the photo even the wonky star on the turret. The three figures are also based on a photo and are the commanding officers from the action.

I am particularly pleased how the camouflage and base came out. Olive drab is tricky to get to look right, but I have used dry brushing and washes to achieve an accurate in service look. The base is crammed with texture and detail and a step on from the Tiger. It really gives atmosphere to the subject. If you have subscribed to my newsletter you will by now know what the next tank is. If not just sign up at the bottom of the page, or you could just wait until I announce it on here. Now it’s full speed ahead on production and then onto the P-38 Lightning.

May 15th 2019

I have just finished the masters for the Sherman M4A3E2 ‘Cobra King’ and thought it worthy of a few photos. I am very pleased with the result. It has come out very well. Working with a new material like the 3D printed resin was a bit of a learning curve, but I think the results speak for themselves. The lifting eyes are filled in, and the barrel isn’t drilled out as the masters are prepped for the vulcanising. These areas will be opened up on the production castings.

The grade of resin the parts are 3D printed in is fairly brittle when it comes to the smaller items so I decided to convert them into metal masters as I didn’t want to take any chances when it comes to mould making. I now have three moulds to make and I am going to try a new technique with the upper hull which I hope will minimise any distortion from the vulcanising process. Hopefully by the end of Friday I should have the moulds finished and the sample cast – wish me luck!

May 11th 2019

June the 6th this year marks the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and as such I thought I would put together a video telling the story of D-Day through some of my aircraft. It features the Beaufighter TF MK X, Spitfire Mk IXC, Typhoon Mk IB and Messerschmitt Bf 109G-6/U2. To watch the video just click on the image below which will take you to my YouTube channel.

I also have an article about Staples and Vine in the latest edition of ‘Diecast Collector’ so I am working hard to spread the word about what I do and how I do it. This magazine featured ‘Diverse Images’ way back in 1996. I now have a good relationship with the editor who has written a very flattering article – thanks Rick.

Work is also progressing well on the Sherman. I expect to be mouldmaking next week and there will be a mailshot as soon as the sample is finished. So make sure you are signed up to my newsletter. Have a great weekend – Sera.

May 6th 2019

You may be aware that I am pretty active on ‘social media’ with Staples and Vine. As such I follow other groups and individuals I am interested in. One such group on Facebook is a team restoring a Nashorn tank destroyer in the Netherlands. Link HERE. They have been working hard for 4 years on the project and making great progress. Sadly in April the workshop they were working in burnt down with the Nashorn and many vital tools and relics inside.

The Nashorn has been recovered and the team are working hard to raise funds to complete the restoration

After hearing about the disaster and seeing that they wanted to sell T-shirts and mugs to try and raise funds for the project I contacted them and offered my services. After a couple of weeks the design was finalised and they are now selling T-shirts and mugs. Appropriately the Nashorn has been christened ‘Phoenix’ (spelled Phonix in German).

This design is only available from the Nashorn restoration team – I hope you like it. They also have a donation page to help the project. They have been working hard since the fire to get the Nashorn to the Millitracks show in a couple of weeks and what they have achieved so far is amazing.
Meanwhile I have been beavering away on the Sherman. The base is off at the casters, the figures are sculpted, and the cold cure silicone moulds have been made. So I think it should be in production in a couple of weeks. As you can see I have been pretty busy, there is always a lot going on as you will see from my Instagram feed.

April 30th 2019

I have just uploaded VLOG #9 onto Youtube ( click on the image below to see it ). It is mainly a review of my new 3D printer, the Photocentric Liquid Crystal Precision 1.5. It also shows the quality and detail of the parts I have 3D printed for the new Sherman. I still have a lot to do on the Sherman to get it ready for mouldmaking but I am now well on the way.

Work is going well on the Sherman base as well. It will depict ‘Cobra King’ in Bastogne on December 26th 1944. Three figures will be optional. They will be the generals who took part in the Seige of Bastogne and will be holding the famous Bastogne sign. This is based on an historical photo. Right that’s enough computer work time to get back to the workbench!

April 18th 2019

I am now totally up to date with orders and working full time on the Sherman – hooray! I’ve had to learn some new 3D modelling techniques but fortunately my original designs were pretty good, so there was far less to change than I expected. The new printer is now here and running flat out day and night! The print quality is awesome! It is everything I could have hoped for. Rather than listen to me waffle on, have a look at these pictures of my first two prints.

The improvement from my previous printer is dramatic – no layer lines to speak of, and the detail is razor sharp. I am blown away! I still have to fit the parts and tweak them with Milliput to make them cast well but this new printer is gamechanger. Hopefully it will speed up my sculpting and allow me to really go to town on the detail. I’ll be making a Vlog about the printer and Sherman soon so you can really see just how good it is. Happy Easter – Sera.

April 1st 2019

The second batch of Martin Baker MB5s have now been dispatched and I am now onto the third. The advertising and media blitz has certainly paid off – lots of orders.
In the meantime I have been ‘putting a toe’ into the new 3D printer. So far I have just been getting used to the slicer software that prepares the 3D model for the printer. Up till now I have been designing the parts in my 3D modelling software using a method called ‘Parametric Modelling’. In parametric modelling you use basic shapes, modify them and then join them together to make complex shapes. It works but it is not friendly to 3D printers. The image below shows you some basic shapes and the suspension bogie block for the Sherman.

This part is made up from 5 separate parts ( not the 5  parts above ). It’s ok but when this process is used on the entire tank the slicer software starts to complain and is unable to slice the part correctly. I have been getting away with using this method for quite a while but now have to change how I design parts for the new printer.
I have started learning ‘Polygonal Modelling’ (nothing to do with dead parrots). It is more complicated as the principal involves starting with a basic object such as a cube ( this is known as a primitive ) and then subdividing it and modifying its points, edges and faces to create the desired object. It’s how the pro’s do it.

This is the same part as above but was created from a basic cube. It is amazing what can be created using this method. I am currently flapping around in the shallow end with armbands on but learning fast.  The more I do the quicker I become and the more flexibility I have when it comes to the 3D printing. I am reprinting all the parts for the Sherman and they all need this TLC to some degree.  Hopefully the slicer software will appreciate my hard work. I am really looking forward to my first print on the new machine.

March 23rd 2019

Change has arrived! If you have seen VLOG #8 you will know exactly what I am talking about. If not let me fill you in with the short version. Most of the parts I 3D print are small and highly detailed, something my Ultimaker 2 3D printer struggles with for various reasons. It is a good printer I am just expecting too much out of it. So I have been exploring other 3D printer options and have received these samples printed on a resin printer.

These rings are standing on steel blocks which are 20mmm square which should give you and idea of the level of detail this 3D printer is capable of. See how minimal the skeletal support material is and how easy it is to break out compared to my Ultimaker 3D prints. But it doesn’t stop there. The blue resin the rings are printed in is capable of withstanding the vulcanising process I use to make my production moulds. This will make it quicker for me to get models into production and to a higher quality.
So I unlocked my purse and gave the credit card a good workout.

A couple of days ago this box turned up and today I have just started to unpack and set up the my NEW 3D printer. It is a Photocentric Precision 1.5 and here is their website www.photocetricgroup.com. I bought mine from their UK agent 3DGBIRE www.3dgbire.com.
I am taking it slowly and carefully setting this new tech up. I have un-boxed it today, and tomorrow I shall start installing software and powering it up. It is pretty daunting but I am sure it will all work out well, these are well tried and tested printers and the product support is excellent. Don’t forget to check back in to find out how I am getting on. All the best, and I hope you are having a good weekend, Sera.

March 16th 2019

VLOG #8 is now up on YouTube ( click on the image to see the video ) where I bring things up to date with my progress 3D printing the parts for the 1:48 scale Sherman tank. Specifically the M4A3E2 Sherman ‘COBRA KING’. This famous Sherman assault tank took part in the ‘Battle of the Bulge’ and was the first tank into Bastogne, relieving the besieged American forces. The story behind this tank is fascinating and I urge you to have a read of the history behind this tank here.
3D printing is a process I have embraced but it has its limitations. Here I look at the results of 3D printing the Sherman and ways of creating a better quality model. Change is coming….

March 11th 2019

I am now up to date with the first batch of Martin Baker production as well as orders taken earlier this year. It has taken me a while to get back into serious production and there have been a few delays. I must apologise to anyone who was waiting for their order. I have been working hard to get everything finished and dispatched today. It is often difficult to hit deadlines as all my models are handmade by myself and I am determined to maintain a high quality product and things often take longer than planned. I value my customers tremendously and as I was once told – ‘the customer is king!’, something I have tried work to.
Staples and Vine is not a mass manufacturing company, there is only me, and I do have to wear lots of hats. I am now going to put on my casting hat and produce last weeks orders. Then my video hat, then my sculpting hat. Got to go – UPS are here to collect the parcels!

March 6th 2019

The next aircraft release will be the Lockheed P-38 ‘Lightning’ in 1:72 scale. The 1:72 range has been a little neglected recently (as has 1:144) and this is something I intend to put right. There are an awful lot of gaps in the ranges to fill and I have an ever growing wish list.
The P-38 marks my first foray into aircraft of the Pacific theatre. I have chosen to release two different marks of the P-38 simultaneously and have selected two highly significant aircraft. Both models will have bronze undercarriage. This will allow me to recreate the slender detail of the undercarriage accurately, and maintain the strength needed for shipping worldwide. The P-38 will have a wingspan of 8.66″ ( 220mm ) and will be mounted on the No 6 size base (9.33″ or 237mm square). Each P-38 will be a limited edition of 25 only and will feature two new figures. Here’s a brief history and profile for each P-38. You can also find out more and see renders of the 3D model by clicking on the images, which will take you to the relevant website page.

P-38G-13 ‘Miss Virginia’
This early model features the blended radiators and Olive Drab / Neutral Grey scheme.
‘Miss Virginia’ piloted by Lt Rex Barber was the aircraft that famously shot down Admiral Yamamoto in April 1943.

P-38J-15-LO ‘Marge’
With the deeper chin radiators this variant of the P-38 was flown by Captain Richard Ira Bong
who became the highest scoring American ace of all time, with 40 kills to his name.

As part of my long term plan for Staples and Vine, I will, at the end of March, be withdrawing the following models from the current range and moving them to the stuck off charge section of the site. Mustang Mk III, Spitfire PR MK X, Spitfire PR MK XI, Seafire Mk LIII, Seafire Mk XV, He 162A-2, and Bf 109G-6/AS. This is part of my continuous plan to tidy up older subjects and make room for new models such as the P-38.

Soon I will be up to date with orders for the Martin Baker MB5 and start sculpting work on the Sherman.  This is probably the most famous of all Shermans and has an amazing history. Incredibly it survives today and has been restored. I have now written the Sherman history which you can read here.

March 3rd 2019

Sorry it’s been a little while since the last post but I have been working hard getting everyone’s aircraft and tanks produced. Production is going well and I should be up to date by the end of this week. A lot has been going on behind the scenes and I shall be announcing the next aircraft release shortly so make sure you are signed up to the newsletter. (See the bottom of any page)
I have also launched my advertising / media campaign and thought you might like to see my advert in the latest Flypast. The style marks a fresh start in a similar format to before but freshened up a bit. Sorry, that’s a bit arty. We have always had a good relationship with Flypast over the past 20+ years and see it as the ‘go-to’ magazine for historic aviation. Here’s the magazine – this issue also has an excellent airshow guide for 2019.

I have also reached out to a few other magazines to broaden my exposure. ‘Diecast Collector’ is one such magazine and is packed with features on the latest and classic collectable vehicles. I had a great chat with the team at the magazine and the editor has kindly featured the MB5 in the news section – thanks Rick.

As I mentioned before there is a massive amount going on behind the scenes. I am disciplined enough to be working on production from 9-5 during the week and then at weekends and evenings I am setting up other projects, marketing, website, instagram, facebook, and Youtube. As I mentioned in my last blog post change is always afoot and I am determined to move ever forward. I have something very cool in the pipeline and I am dying to tell you but it will have to wait. In the meantime expect to get an email soon with news on the next new aircraft. Sera

February 12th 2019

I will always take a break on the 12th of February, and today I visited RHS Rosemoor. It was a special place for Tim and I and it gave me time to think. I have had to deal with a lot of change over the past 12 months, and it has made me stronger, more focused and more determined. Both in life and business. I am proud of what I have achieved and today’s break has given me the chance to reflect. I have lots of ideas for the future of Staples and vine. Complimenting and building on the existing ranges. Today’s quiet time allowed me to see those ideas more clearly.

We shouldn’t be afraid of change. It is an opportunity to re-asses and move forward stronger than before. From every new model I make I learn something new. What can and can’t be done what works and what doesn’t, and if it doesn’t work I find a way to make it work. The future for Staples and Vine is good – I’m not afraid of change.

February 6th 2019

I have just uploaded VLOG #7 where you can see just what goes into getting the 1/48 scale Martin Baker MB5 into production. It’s a long video but I hope you find it interesting. So put the kettle on and settle down with your favourite biscuit and enjoy.

Now I have to get back to production and cast some aircraft. I have to pay for Winston’s cat food some how!

February 1st 2019

The 1/48 scale Martin Baker MB5 is now in production and I am thrilled with how well it has come out. It is one of my all time favourites, and is a bit like a Mustang on steroids. Just click on the image below and it will take you to the relevant page.

The next release will be the long awaited M4A3E2 Sherman ‘Cobra King’ from the siege of Bastogne during the ‘Battle of the Bulge’. This is already 3D printed as you will have seen in earlier blog posts so it is well advanced. I will be announcing the next aircraft release soon so make sure you are subscribed to my newsletter to get the all the news as it breaks.

January 31st 2019

The bronze undercarriage for the MB 5 landed this morning and I though I would take a break to make a posting while the epoxy cures. I have also weighed in the MB 5 as it stands. It is almost a kilo (977 g / 2 lb 2.4 ozs). That makes it the heaviest aircraft yet – even heavier than the Typhoon.

I think the epoxy should be set by now, so back to the workbench.

January 29th 2019

I have just printed the decals for the MB5 on the laser printer and they have come out really well. I have at my disposal several different processes for decal printing. It all gets a bit complex choosing which to use for which decal. We used to get everything screen printed but it proved restrictive in terms of colours, had a high turn around time, and was very expensive. I now have much more flexibility creating everything in house. It is always exciting working with new equipment, but often a real headache trying to develop and learn new techniques to get the best result possible. Over the past 20 years a lot has changed and I have come along way, but I never get tired of creating the most detailed models I can. This is an enlargement of the decals for the instruments panels and propeller markings on the MB5.

The MB5 has three instrument panels, the main panel is only 5/8 inch (16 mm) wide so the cockpit is going to look amazing when it is finished tomorrow. Make sure you are on the mailing list to see the finished MB5 as soon as it is ready.

January 28th 2019

The moulds are now finished. Fortunately there is no sign of any defects on the moulds following the damage to the masters which is a massive relief. After the damage to the masters I have started researching alternative 3D printing technology but more on that another time. I have cast the sample and started assembly which has gone pretty well.  Now I just have to wait for the bronze undercarriage to be delivered on Wednesday. So far the sample is looking amazing. It looks very much like one of the racing planes from Reno! It is a big aircraft and the sample has plenty of weight.
Whilst researching the project I realised that this May marks the 75th anniversary of the first flight of the Martin Baker MB5, so the release of this limited edition couldn’t be better timed.

Tomorrow I shall finish off the artwork for the decals and print the first few samples off. I have gone to town on the cockpit which has several instrument panels. I have also originated the DH logos for the propeller blades which will make a nice touch of detail. I am really looking forward to seeing the end result of the MB5 project which will be the most stunning desk piece I have made in a long time.

January 26th 2019

The masters for the Martin Baker MB5 are now finished and ready for mould-making. I have three moulds to make. Two 9 inch for parts and one 12 inch one for the wings and fuselage. I made the 12 inch mould yesterday and it looks pretty good although the masters took some punishment. I was very nervous about mould-making as it has been so long since I last made one. I have tried something new with the layout of the main mould but I think it will work out fine. Today (Saturday) I’ll cook one of the 9 inch moulds and do the last one tomorrow. Then I will be casting the sample on Monday.

It is all coming together nicely. I’ve spoken to the bronze casters and the undercarriage should be with me on Wednesday. So by the end of the week I should have the sample finished and photographed.
May 2019 marks the 75th anniversary of the first flight of the Martin Baker MB5, so this release is well timed.
Make sure you are subscribed to the email newsletter to see the latest photos before everyone else, and find out what I have planned next. I will be releasing ‘Sera’s Vlog #7’ on Youtube the following week where you can see more of the process behind getting the MB5 into production.

January 18th 2019

I have a sort of love hate relationship with prototype aircraft. Let me explain, They are often of unique types which never saw production, and therefore make fascinating models but they are subject to constant evolution and change. This constant development makes it very hard to pick a specific stage in the life of the aircraft to choose to make the model. The Martin Baker MB5 poses such a problem. This is not helped by source photos being undated, so unpicking a timeline to select a specific stage to model the subject is challenging.
I thought you might like to see what I have deduced, and at what stage I have chosen to model the MB5.

PHASE 1 ‘ROLL-OUT’
Initially the MB5 had the smaller MB3 tail and rudder. It was also fitted with Rotol propellers. This is how it flew on it’s maiden flight when stability issues were highlighted. At this stage it may, or may not have had the inboard undercarriage doors. Often these were omitted on initial aircraft test flights, as they could prevent the undercarriage deploying, which could result in the loss of the aircraft. This is when Bryan Greensted of Rotol tested the aircraft on the 23rd of May 1944. At NO stage was the MB5 fitted with the 4 x 20 mm cannon.

PHASE 2 ‘RE-DESIGN’
The stability issues were resolved with a much larger vertical tail and rudder. The Rotol propellers and spinner were replaced with de Havilland propellers and spinner. The spinner was initially unpainted (aluminium). Inboard undercarriage doors were fitted.

PHASE 3 ‘DISPLAY FLYING’
The spinner was now painted black, and the inboard undercarriage doors were eliminated. The wheel wells were re-profiled and now circular. The main undercarriage legs, and inner side of the undercarriage doors were painted black. Later, de Havilland logos were added to the propeller blades.

As I am sure you can imagine, it has been a bit confusing working out the timeline, but I think I have it pretty well nailed down. If anyone has any other information please let me know. I intend to produce the MB5 in its final phase when it gave a remarkable air display at Farnborough in the hands of Sqn Ldr Jan Zurakowski. This is when the aircraft reached it’s pinnacle before it’s sad demise.

I do enjoy the detective work, finding out what a particular aircraft looked like at a specific stage in it’s life. Sometimes it can seem impossible, and I have to put the project on the back burner, but mostly I can pin it down. I have been doing a lot of research recently and have now chosen the next 4 aircraft to release for 2019. I have all the information I need. Now I just have to sculpt them…

Have a great weekend everyone. Sera.

January 14th 2019

Hi everyone and welcome to a new week! I have had a busy few weeks working on the website and can now announce that all of the models from the current range are available through the online shopping cart. This means you can order your model with or without figures at any time day or night, from anywhere in the world, without having to make time during the working day to call me. That’s not to say that I don’t enjoy speaking to my customers, you will always welcome be to pick up the phone. Orders placed online are processed immediately and as with all the handmade models they take approximately 6 weeks to produce. This has always been the case and is primarily due to the sculpting cycle. Sometime orders can take longer but I always aim for 6 weeks as a maximum.

Shipping has always been a nightmare to incorporate into the website and rates have now been adjusted slightly. I have tried to keep shipping costs as low as possible but still use reliable, trusted couriers at all times. Some good news on the shipping front though …

T-SHIRTS AND MUGS ARE SHIPPED AT NO EXTRA COST
WHEN BOUGHT WITH A MODEL

 

So if you buy a Spitfire, and then add a mug and a couple of T-shirts, the only shipping you pay is that of the model.
I can also announce that I am now fully set up to take PayPal. Which for many is a much more convenient way to buy your favourite model.

Well that gets the week off to a good start. Now, I have to cast the metal masters for the MB5. I’ll post an update on that later in the week.

January 11th 2019

Well the first full week back has been a busy one. The MB5 undercarriage is now at the bronze casters, and I have been cracking on with the rest of the masters that need to be cast in pewter. The figures take the longest, about a day each, but with the help of my two new recruits the task is a little easier. As you can see from the pictures below I start with a rough Milliput shape and then work through the cycle of adding milliput, carving away, adding more, and repeating, until I get to the finished result. There will be more refinement when I convert them into pewter.

The silicone moulds are now poured and on Monday I shall open them up, cut the feeds and cast the masters. This is always a landmark stage as there is no more ‘converting’ to work on. I am now onto the finished masters stage.

The silicone is pretty expensive and the propellers took the lions share due to my design. But, I have now thought of a slight redesign which will mean the production moulds won’t be as deep as I originally planned – which is a good thing when it comes to casting. At this design stage things are often a bit loose as working to high tolerances on the larger parts going through silicone mould casting is often counterproductive.

I have been working hard on a major website update as well but more about that next week! Many of you have asked what models I have planned for the rest of the year. Well, I have a dedicated white board up in the office listing subjects in the various scales and ranges. There are a lot of gaps in the ranges that need filling, as well as new areas that I need to explore. In short I have a lot to think about, and it’s complicated but whatever happens, 2019 is going to be a good year. All the best and have a great weekend, more soon. Sera.

January 7th 2019

Hello everyone, it’s good to be back. I am trying to start with a ‘New Year’s Resolution’, to average a blog post every week! I do have a lot going on so there is plenty to share with you. Over the festive break I managed to get a couple of videos out which seem to have gone down well. I have also been working on the computer a lot, but more on that another time.
As you see I now have a couple of new members of staff. They don’t say much but do earn their keep.

They are multipose figures which I can set up as a reference to hopefully sculpt better figures for the aircraft and tanks. I bought one (left) and was so impressed I bought another (right). They are both made by Bandai but the second one has issues. His right arm and head keeps falling off. I have kind of got attached to them, and have been trying to think of names for them. I was thinking of classic double acts, so something like ‘Tom and Jerry’. If you have any ideas please let me know. I want to make a decision by the end of the month so I can stop calling them ‘left and right’.
Now, I had better get back to the MB5, reserve orders are coming in – I think it’s going to be popular.

January 1st 2019

Let me start by wishing everybody a ‘Happy New Year’. I am determined that 2019 is going to be a good year for ‘Staples and Vine’. I have a long list of aircraft and tanks to get into production. Of course not all will see fruition but I am sure you will like what you see.
I am going to continue to work on my Youtube channel. I currently have 33 subscribers, hopefully by the end of the 2019 I will have a few more. I can tell a far bigger story on Youtube than I can with the blog, but don’t worry I won’t stop the blog it gives everyone a quick reference to see what I have been up to. I know of many customers who check in every day – thank you, your support is much appreciated.
Over the festive break I released another couple of videos. Firstly ‘VLOG #6 MARTIN BAKER MB5 PART 1’ where I update the progress on this new 1:48 scale release.  I go into making the silicone moulds for the undercarriage so that they can be cast in bronze and set up the masters on undercarriage for the first time.

As you can see the MB5 is looking like real ‘Hot-Rod’. It is such a good looking aircraft,  just imagine how good it would have looked had it entered service with the RAF. Not only in camouflage but how about an all silver scheme – wow! To see more on my progress just click on the thumbnail and it will take you to the video on Youtube.
I also made progress on my personal project ‘PROJECT MAUS’ and uploaded video number 3 as well. This project is going well and is allowing me to explore new techniques and materials, find new suppliers, and build something without any constraints to the highest standard I can achieve.

That’s not to say mistakes haven’t been made – they have, but these have been largely down to inaccurate drawings. At least I am on a good path now. I hope you enjoy my ‘Project Maus’ diversions, I genuinely find the project useful as it allows me to discover solutions to design issues that I can implement in the Staples and Vine range. But don’t worry’Project Maus’ won’t get in the way of me sculpting and producing exciting new aircraft.

Well that’s about all for the first blog post of 2019. I hope you all had a good festive break and here’s to 2019 – let’s make it a good one. Sera