Drop Shadows

[Flyer]

I would like to know what techniques people use for adding drop shadows. After the flames are shot, do you wait until they are dry, tape them off, and freehand the shadows with an air brush?

 

[big stinkie]

I apply flames, shoot a coat of clear over them, then scuff it up with 1000 grit. Then I tape off any area of flame that I don't want shadowed by laying down some 1/8 fineline along the edges and graduate to 2" masking tape. Then I start airbrushing. It's kind of complicated if you have overlapping flames. FWIW, I over-reduce the paint for the shadows so I don't lay down too much at once. It let's me build up the shadow gradually.

With this procedure, if/when I make an error I can wipe off the shadow with reducer and not ruin my flames. Rarely am I satisfied with my shadows the first time (I'm not picky...just not very good yet,) so this method is a must for me.

 

[Flyer]

sounds like a good plan. I'll give it a shot.

Thanks

 

[ezrider]

you can use a tool called a free hand shield. they are avalible at most art supply stores in many shapes and sizes. it will save you a lot of masking time.