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Frequently asked Questions!

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What do you use to etch your models? 

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I use a standard exacto blade.  I have tried many things in the past, I have been etching for more than 15 years.  Carbide scrapers can be used, but you won't get the super-fine detail.  A super-sharp, brand new blade makes the best tool 

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How many blades do you use on a horse? 

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That depends!  Some blades in a batch last longer than others.  Even the same brand I will get one good and one bad right next to each other.  Color of the model also is a factor - black models often have more than one layer of paint, and that means more work.  Older models are harder to work with, the paint is well bonded to the plastic. 

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Do you etch.... 

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Glossies - no.  You have to get through the gloss AND the paint and that leaves a real ridge. 

Metallics - Prefer not to - again, multiple layers, you get either a metallic edging, or a ridge

Stones - usually not.  Paint differs, and can be problematic. 

Deco patterns - I prefer to stay with real, but unusual and eye catching patterns. 

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How long does it take? 

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It can take as little as a couple of days (8-12 hours of solid work) for a smaller model in roan, or weeks for something truly extensive. 

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Do you make up patterns? 

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Sometimes.  I've been doing this long enough and have been doing real-horse color genetic research long enough to trust myself on a simple pattern.  But when it comes to unusual, I almost always use reference photos.  If I only have one side photo, I know enough to make an informed guess as to what the other side should look like. 

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Do you take commissions? 

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Sometimes.  It just depends on how much I already have going, and what model the person is wanting.  Obviously some models are easier to etch than others.  Some are just unsuitable (like a light gray or a cream-based OF). 

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Do you show? 

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Once or twice a year at most. Usually I am performing at Renaissance/Similar themed Festivals through the year on weekends, so model shows I can attend have to be between Faires. I have shown in Texas, Louisiana, Oregon, Kentucy, California, and shown at a couple of NANs.  Any cards my horses have go with them, expired or current. 

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Do you use a sealer on the models?  

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With the exception of hooves and eyes, no.  I have 15 year old models that are still showing fine without ever having been sealed, and I have some older models that I DID seal that went sticky.  Therefore I don't seal anymore.  If you want to add sealer, or gloss, and you paid for the model, go for it. 

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Do you ever paint customs? 

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Yes, I do occasionally now.  I used to a lot 30 years ago, but there are many painters out there far better at it than I am.   I have painted in oils, acrylics, and worked in pastels. I find etching is my forte. 

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On your Art Cards, do you take commissions? 

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Yes, I can do commissions on art cards.  

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Do you take time payments? 

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Possibly, we'd need to talk things over. 

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Other questions?  Feel Free to ask! 

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