Easiest Way to Get Started with Model Horse Customization
“You will never quite know if you like what you created until you paint your final stroke.”
If you’re interested in starting to customize your model horses but are not quite sure how to go about it, In this post I will cover the essential starting steps!
Choose your method. The simplest way to customize model horses is to start with acrylics and pastels. There are other mediums out there such as oils, full pencil customs, masking and airbrushing, and other methods that are amazing for more experienced artists or confident beginners. Those create specific effects that require knowledge in composition and experience in those mediums and in creating realistic hairing. So for your first customs the most affordable and accessible is to do basic shading with pastels, then details with acrylics.
Acquire your starting model horse (body), sealant, prepping materials and acrylics, pastels/other.
Find a suitable table or desk around your house where you can sit down and work on your models.
Spraying. You will most likely need to seal your model (unless you don’t mind ruining what you just worked on). Spray sealant is the best for model horses as it does not leave streaks behind. Make sure to spray in a well ventilated area and wear a mask as well as proper protection.
Drying. The simplest way to dry your model is by setting it on a flat surface and then covering it with a box of your choice. The point is to make sure dust does not settle on your horse while it’s still wet. Great ways to upgrade are glass cases or shelves/cabinets with a clear door so you can watch over your horses.
Remember that no first try is perfect. Although I improved quickly, I failed the drying and sealing step with most of my first customs! So just don’t give up, and try again! No practice is wasted.
Make sure to check out the custom model horses I have for sale: https://naturefoxes.com/shop
YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@naturefoxes_IrinaS
