Vaughn Michael's Customs

[VaughnMichael]

Custom Cha Ocho (Mirage Volume 4 & Tales Volume 2)
http://img35.imageshack.us/img35/3636/chaochotogethersmaller.jpg

Custom TMNT Adventures/ Archie Comics Stump Wrestling Donatello
http://img843.imageshack.us/img843/9444/stumpwrestlingdonatello.png (http://img843.imageshack.us/i/stumpwrestlingdonatello.png/)

Custom Mirage Comics Tales of the TMNT Nobody Hero figure
http://img100.imageshack.us/img100/4862/nobodytogether.png (http://img100.imageshack.us/i/nobodytogether.png/)

Custom TMNT Aventures / Archie Comics Warrior Dragon
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/150/l_cac52569d83d42eba6f084383b040bb8.png

Custom TMNT 2K3 Agent Bishop
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/139/l_c57f7455da0446b395f650eca4f82dac.png

Custom TMNT Aventures / Archie Comics Golani
http://c3.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/135/l_30d6547c3a8448a2b1e91b7d02d20cd2.png

Custom TMNT Adventures/ Archie Comics Stump Wrestling Leonardo
http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/115/l_a980c33c1ab8476f9f8a36f54396236d.png
Custom TMNT Adventures/ Archie Comics Stump Wrestling Michelangelo
http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/137/l_59e542093f2b4cd89fc45df33ba85171.png
Custom TMNT Adventures/ Archie Comics Stump Wrestling Raphael
http://c3.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/86/l_0140807fa5c340cebeae35db9eeb57a6.png

[VaughnMichael]

Custom TMNT Adventures/ Archie Comics Stump Wrestling Raphael Version 2
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/144/l_6a3229e739214a1d915c11da2a8cd6bc.png
{Finished tube package design by me}
http://c3.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/83/l_a836d28f77b04d7ea5281492ffb1de22.png
Death {TMNT Adventures & Mighty Mutanimals Comic Villain}
http://c4.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/102/l_02e9ec5ed6604e6eba40b6327552d90f.png
Death w/ Cloak
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/75/l_a29830a391054e4695921e125513bf94.png
Mr. Null {TMNT Adventures & Mighty Mutanimals Comic Villain}
http://c2.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/110/l_95ea0e32821943d590f671fde532b645.png
Complete Carnage {Mirage Comic Villain}
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/54/l_3edbfd6605c9478f93556da7799dda5c.png
Kala Neutrino & Her Pet Grybyx {From the 80's cartoon}
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/10/l_0153f921462a4312aee0f23b9e721494.png
Zak the Neutrino {From the 80's cartoon}
http://c3.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/77/l_9874f6d56fc94ce7a3142a8f5f386d9e.jpg
Titanus {Villian from the 90's Red sky cartoon}
http://c4.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/48/l_10d80b07f6754eeba5215778c8ab9b07.png

[Master Splinter]

Amazing work on these. I cannot wait to see more, and I cannot wait to get my hands on the black w/ purple Raph... 8)

Thanks Vaughn!

-ms

[Topsu]

Nice to see you've come back, and I just love those customs, especielly Archie ones! Can't wait to see Warrior dragon.

But I also have a question, about wrestling Leos belts. Did you just sculpt the middle piece to it or did you use superglue to stick it? Since I need to do almost the same thing with my future Leo custom, I'm curious how'd you do that.
Thanks!

[Candy Kappa]

they are all fantastic

[nofuture4u]

Great customs dude!

[Revan]

I love Kala! (naturally)

and those stump wrestling turtles are great too. Why did you make these? business or pleasure?

[Mutagen Mutant]

So when are you going to start your new toy line, so that I can keep an eye open in the stores?

[Spitfire]

Very nice. Can't wait till Leo can join my Raph and Mikey. The paint on these guys is really something and the packaging is awesome. I feel like I own the rarest TMNT figures MIB haha.

[plastroncafe]

These are beautiful!

[Ninjinister]

God, Vaughn, those are damn ugly! What an amazingly terrible mess you've made! Go get a real job!

[Cipher]

That Complete Carnage rocks so damn hard. The cape looks fantastic, and the texture is perfect.

And while I don't think Titanus is quite up to the quality of the rest of the figures (although still amazing), it's really cool to see a Red Sky villain toy. Maybe take a crack at Dregg?

[Alex]

Wow! Amazing wrestling customs!

[Ulisses31]

You rock man, great painting and sculpting skills.:tgrin:

[BigApple3AM]

Great job on the Grybyx. Did you sculpt it from scratch? I like the painting style you used on the the Neutrinos and him, the black stroke is a nice touch.

[Lordmylar06]

It's really cool to finally see that Leo! I'm thoroughly impressed. Great work!

[ToTheNines]

Freakin awesome! My favorite would be the Grybyx lol.

Are you making a Stump Don? I feel like I've seen one before, maybe Tokka made it.

[VaughnMichael]

Amazing work on these. I cannot wait to see more, and I cannot wait to get my hands on the black w/ purple Raph... 8)
Thanks Vaughn!
-ms
Thanks so much, not a problem I'm sorry it took so long but i'm very glad you like it.
Nice to see you've come back, and I just love those customs, especielly Archie ones! Can't wait to see Warrior dragon.
But I also have a question, about wrestling Leos belts. Did you just sculpt the middle piece to it or did you use superglue to stick it? Since I need to do almost the same thing with my future Leo custom, I'm curious how'd you do that.
Thanks!
Hey thanks I'm glad to be back :)
Trust me I can't wait to do Warrior Dragon he's going to toward over the neca tmnt.
I ended up using crazyglue which works amazingly but I used it for all his pads not just the middle part.
they are all fantastic
Thanks so much, all of the warm welcomes back and postive comments make me want to keep moving forward.
Great customs dude!
Hey thanks fellow Pittsburgh TMNT fan!
I love Kala! (naturally)
and those stump wrestling turtles are great too. Why did you make these? business or pleasure?
Hey Neutrino nice to see you around, I made them for business but it was a pleasure :)
So when are you going to start your new toy line, so that I can keep an eye open in the stores?
Hah I wish I could get ahold of the toyline, you have no idea.
Very nice. Can't wait till Leo can join my Raph and Mikey. The paint on these guys is really something and the packaging is awesome. I feel like I own the rarest TMNT figures MIB haha.
hahah I think you might spit! It's been a blast doing these and I'm also sorry to you that it's been taking me so long to get them done but you've been very patient and understanding so thank you.
These are beautiful!
Thanks so much for a wonderful compliment!
God, Vaughn, those are damn ugly! What an amazingly terrible mess you've made! Go get a real job!
hahah thanks you jerk :P
That Complete Carnage rocks so damn hard. The cape looks fantastic, and the texture is perfect.
And while I don't think Titanus is quite up to the quality of the rest of the figures (although still amazing), it's really cool to see a Red Sky villain toy. Maybe take a crack at Dregg?
Thanks so much I love Complete Carnage the poor character hasn't gotten much love at all, such an under used character that shouldn't be.
Thanks and it's understandable because Titanus was the first of these that I did.
I made a Lord Dregg some years ago but yeah he and Mung are on my short list of characters to tackle.
Wow! Amazing wrestling customs!
Thanks so much, the neca tmnt figures work so well for this because of kevin and peters alternative costume designs being the same as the archie wrestling costumes.
You rock man, great painting and sculpting skills.:tgrin:
You guys are seriously making me pumped to do more figures, it's a nice welcome return to the site. Not what I used to get from people here.
Great job on the Grybyx. Did you sculpt it from scratch? I like the painting style you used on the the Neutrinos and him, the black stroke is a nice touch.
Thanks so much I wanted to make the Grybyx articulated but it got messed up in the cooking process. But yes I sculpted him 100%
Thanks I like it also it gives it that cartoon look to me, i know allot of people dislike it though but hey you can't please everyone.
It's really cool to finally see that Leo! I'm thoroughly impressed. Great work!
Thanks so much, he was rather hard to do and took me quite awhile but in the end I really liked the way he turned out even ifs not 100% correct.
Freakin awesome! My favorite would be the Grybyx lol.
Are you making a Stump Don? I feel like I've seen one before, maybe Tokka made it.
lol cool thanks :)
I am he's my favorite turtle so I'm saving him for last and also yes Tokka made one already which was another factor in my waiting to do him till later.
You may have missed it but up top i have a list of characters that are coming next.

[Cipher]

You may have missed it but up top i have a list of characters that are coming next.I just looked at that.

Gnatrat custom is the most ridiculously awesome thing I've ever heard, doubly so for the fact that it'll be created with the quality of your other ones. Talk about an obscure character.

[VaughnMichael]

I just looked at that.

Gnatrat custom is the most ridiculously awesome thing I've ever heard, doubly so for the fact that it'll be created with the quality of your other ones. Talk about an obscure character.
It's one I've always wanted to do as a big fan of Mark Martin's work and oddly enough Mr. Martin himself requested I make him after seeing my other work. :)

[Wes]

Looking good, Vaughn! But -- questions! Since I don't recall asking them before. :)

What did you use to make the wrapping on Stump Michaelangelo? Aaaand regarding the upcoming figures, what are you planning to use as bases for Renet and the Triceraton? Inquiring minds want to know! I was thinking that upcoming Hasbro ML Valkyrie would make a good Renet, but she's not due out until at least the fall.

[VaughnMichael]

Looking good, Vaughn! But -- questions! Since I don't recall asking them before. :)

What did you use to make the wrapping on Stump Michaelangelo? Aaaand regarding the upcoming figures, what are you planning to use as bases for Renet and the Triceraton? Inquiring minds want to know! I was thinking that upcoming Hasbro ML Valkyrie would make a good Renet, but she's not due out until at least the fall.
Thanks Wes :)
It's thinly cut duct tapeactully lol but it works!

Rent is going to be Dc Universe Classics Power Girl Figure.
I was thinking of using the same idea you have there but recently realized how much Rents costume is a copy of Power Girls.

The Triceraton body base is going to be Dc Universe Build a figure Kilowog.
(which has cost me quite a bit to get, but i'm think it will be very much worth it in the end)

Warrior Dragon is going to be a Marvel Legends Fin Fang Foom build a figure.

And of course Gnatrat will be using a Dc Universe Classics body as a base.

I am also wanting to make Mike Dooney's Gizmo but can't think of a nice base for him yet.

[Koi]

These are really neato, are you actually going to sell these? You have a really cool gift with figures!

[VaughnMichael]

These are really neato, are you actually going to sell these? You have a really cool gift with figures!
Hey thanks so much, some have been sold to people but I'm not against making more of the characters if people want to buy the base figure and pay what I'm asking and think it's worth it.

[909 Turtle Fan]

great work! i especially like the Leo figure, the paint job is outstanding! cant wait to see next customs!:tthumbsu:

[Triglyph]

The wrestler Leo is really cool man

[discordiatookie]

I've admired your work before, and I must say, seeing it all together in one thread (plus others i've never seen!) is really awsome. You rock.

[tOkKa]

-->> The "STUMP" Leo has quickly become my fave.

( Well not to take awau from the others .. - )
Not sure if it's the extra hard work put into the piece or what - - but it easily justifies the extra i am paying for one of the Raph's as these have become more than 'customs'..

but works of art.

[tOkKa]

-->> Tryin' to make a Gizmo for Dooney too- but he's tied up with the Zombies so i can only do so much at a time - -

[Buffy]

Those turtles look amazing, especially Leo.

[raven6859]

These look absolutely amazing. I'm totally looking forward to a huge Triceraton!

[Lionheart3239]

It takes talent and patience to do those customs. Great Stuff!

[Vivi]

It's work like this that makes the customs section one of my favorites. Very nice :tthumbsu:

[VaughnMichael]

great work! i especially like the Leo figure, the paint job is outstanding! cant wait to see next customs!:tthumbsu:
Thanks so much, he was by far the toughest for me to do.
The wrestler Leo is really cool man
Thanks I've yet to even make a set for myself yet lol
I've admired your work before, and I must say, seeing it all together in one thread (plus others i've never seen!) is really awsome. You rock.
Thanks so much, like I said before it's you guys kind words that keep me going. :)
-->> The "STUMP" Leo has quickly become my fave.
( Well not to take awau from the others .. - )
Not sure if it's the extra hard work put into the piece or what - - but it easily justifies the extra i am paying for one of the Raph's as these have become more than 'customs'..
but works of art.

Thanks Dave, you have def. helped me come along in these things.
Thanks for all the late night chats!
Those turtles look amazing, especially Leo.
Thanks buffy! I'm trying to get them all done quicker now, might as well since I've got nothing better to do lol
These look absolutely amazing. I'm totally looking forward to a huge Triceraton!
thanks so much, and me also it's going to be so intense making it!
I'm basing it on the outfits we see them wearing in Mirage TMNT Volume 1 issue #06
It takes talent and patience to do those customs. Great Stuff!
thanks lion, thats why it takes me awhile to get them done some times as I just don't have the time or patience to do them.
It's work like this that makes the customs section one of my favorites. Very nice :tthumbsu:
Thanks Vivi, that means allot to me! :)
I hope you all like my newest custom figure! It's random I know but she sort of came to me suddenly.
It's Golani from TMNT Adventures #53 6
http://bp3.blogger.com/_B-vojMjhXQg/SBkuL1PdvwI/AAAAAAAAAQ8/uht-ctLr2-Q/s400/TMNTA54p018.jpg
You can check her out on the first page.

[Topsu]

Like the look of Golani, altho I never was too fond of the character. Maybe if they've used her more...
But did you use wires or anything in the head, since sculpting something like without them...well, it may end up breaking and is also a bit harder job to do.

[Jester]

Awesome work VM. When i saw the thumbnail on MySpace I thought you re-worked the one of Drako's shadow ninjas

[Samhain]

Dude, great work. I might hit you up one of these days for a Neca styled Slash.

[Wes]

Maaan, I haven't even seen a Katma Tui in stores and you're using one for customs. Hatred. :trazz:

But seriously, nifty custom! Can we have some action shots? :D

[Spitfire]

That's epic. I love you pulled off here strangely shaped head. The paint is great too.

[Powder]

Golani eh? Odd choice. She came out beautifully though. Kinda reminds me of the zora people from the Legend Of Zelda games.

[tOkKa]

-->> That Golani is so hawt.. man i wanna big, huge .. monolithic ANIMUS to fight her now !! !!

[Cipher]

Well, that's unmistakably Golani. And that's a good thing. It's not as striking or dynamic as your other figures, but it completely matches the character.

Now you've fleshed out TMNTA enough. Mirage and the '87 toon need some attention.

[Spitfire]

Well, that's unmistakably Golani. And that's a good thing. It's not as striking or dynamic as your other figures, but it completely matches the character.

Now you've fleshed out TMNTA enough. Mirage and the '87 toon need some attention.

Hey the Wrestling turtles are interchangeable. I can't wait to see more either.

[TMNachoT]

Hello!

I´d like to ask u something, Vaughn.

As u have customized a terrific carnage figure, I´d like to ask u about the figures i can use to create my own..ehh... neca toys.

Do the motu 200x and dc universe r good figures to customize? I mean, a female figure from the dc super heroes has the same size as the april´s neca??

Wonder woman and big barda could be good figures to make a renet figure.

About male figures, I think merman from the motu 200x line would be ok to create the sea creatures that appeared in the second volume of tmnt.

Thank u!

[VaughnMichael]

Hello!

I´d like to ask u something, Vaughn.

As u have customized a terrific carnage figure, I´d like to ask u about the figures i can use to create my own..ehh... neca toys.

Do the motu 200x and dc universe r good figures to customize? I mean, a female figure from the dc super heroes has the same size as the april´s neca??

Wonder woman and big barda could be good figures to make a renet figure.

About male figures, I think merman from the motu 200x line would be ok to create the sea creatures that appeared in the second volume of tmnt.

Thank u!
Thanks so much :)
I'd say the new MOTU Classics line that Mattel is putting out along with the Dc Universe Classics are perfect for NECA TMNT customs because of the fact that they are all sculpted by the 4 horsemen.
And the DCUC female figures are just a little bit taller than NECA April, but to me that's not a big issue they aren't really that much bigger.
My opinion of NECA April is that she is just a bit to small.
You're pretty close on choices for Renet, I say go for it.
I'm using a DCUC female for renet myself and will be posting her soon enough.
I wouldn't use merman myself for those characters perhaps a basic DCUC male figure, if you look at them they're rather human like besides their heads, hands, and feet.
Hope this helps and sorry it took me awhile to get back to you I've not been around. :)

[TMNachoT]

Cheers, vaughn! U did a fantastic job with the etrigan figure, so i am looking forward to see that renet figure!

[turtlelife]

I think we all should get a petition going to make Vaughn the head of toy development at Playmates. Every single one of those is utterly awesome, great work. I especially love the Grybyx 'cause I never thought I'd see him, even in custom form. Stupendous! I can't wait to see what you do with Gnatrat.

Have you thought about making any other Archie characters yet (besides Warrior Dragon)? I have a plan to try and make everyone from Chameleon to Toxeem eventually. But if you are going to make any of those I might as well wait and see how it's done properly, lol. Though once I finish up some current customs that have been going on far too long, Sarnath is next on my list, any input on a good base?

Again wonderful work on every one of those, thanks for sharing!

[VaughnMichael]

I think we all should get a petition going to make Vaughn the head of toy development at Playmates. Every single one of those is utterly awesome, great work. I especially love the Grybyx 'cause I never thought I'd see him, even in custom form. Stupendous! I can't wait to see what you do with Gnatrat.

Have you thought about making any other Archie characters yet (besides Warrior Dragon)? I have a plan to try and make everyone from Chameleon to Toxeem eventually. But if you are going to make any of those I might as well wait and see how it's done properly, lol. Though once I finish up some current customs that have been going on far too long, Sarnath is next on my list, any input on a good base?

Again wonderful work on every one of those, thanks for sharing!
Well thank you so much! I wish i could get Playmates line at least in order.
My list of characters right now is Renet, Gnatrat, Gizmo, Fluff, Old Toon Rocksteady w/ his belly, Nobody, Cha Ocho, Triceraton, and Warrior Dragon (who is almost done and let me tell you he towers over the turtles.)

There are allot of Archie characters I would love to do like Bellybomb, but it's just a matter of waiting for the right body to come along for me to sculpt over.

[***First of Two Latin Kings***]

Any way you can post Golani right into this thread?

I've been wanting to do GnatRat as well...If I ever found the right figure to use you can bet there would be a "Fanny-Whacker" variant... :tlol:

[VaughnMichael]

Any way you can post Golani right into this thread?

I've been wanting to do GnatRat as well...If I ever found the right figure to use you can bet there would be a "Fanny-Whacker" variant... :tlol:
I'm not sure what you mean by posting her right? she's on the first page w/ the other images.

Gnatrats base is pretty much a no brainer.

[***First of Two Latin Kings***]

I'm not sure what you mean by posting her right? she's on the first page w/ the other images.

Gnatrats base is pretty much a no brainer.

Okay, I found her.

What are you planning to use for GnatRat? Maybe I'm just tired, or it's not coming to me because I'm thinking about it too hard.

[VaughnMichael]

Okay, I found her.

What are you planning to use for GnatRat? Maybe I'm just tired, or it's not coming to me because I'm thinking about it too hard.
Oh ok, I thought for a moment maybe something was wrong with the image.

And You'll see soon enough, it's funny because it didn't even cross his creator Mark Martin's mind lol.

[turtlelife]

Well thank you so much! I wish i could get Playmates line at least in order.
My list of characters right now is Renet, Gnatrat, Gizmo, Fluff, Old Toon Rocksteady w/ his belly, Nobody, Cha Ocho, Triceraton, and Warrior Dragon (who is almost done and let me tell you he towers over the turtles.)

There are allot of Archie characters I would love to do like Bellybomb, but it's just a matter of waiting for the right body to come along for me to sculpt over.

I have some parts I plan to use for Bellybomb, namely his mouth, but I need to figure out a better "fatboy" base to integrate it into. I can't wait to see your Chu Hsi, I plan on using a Foom for him too eventually, but first I need one for my Legends collection. I hope you plan on making a Super Foot Soldier to fight him eventually, maybe an ML Sentinel as a base? Did you make him yellow or red (I hope yellow)?

Did I read correctly that you are planning on using a Killowog CnC for Triceraton? I would've never thought of that but it would be a really impressive base to use. I just put mine next to my Neca Turtles and I see how awesome it could be. I hope he's next on your list, after Gnatrat of course.

Yeah you need to get playmates in order for sure. Maybe you can teach them about making joints too, beyond how to sculpt. If the fans with talent like you, and other customizers on this board, were able to run Playmates TMNT line it would be number 1 in every store. Instead, TMNT is blacklisted from Walmart and Playmates just goes along thinking nothing's wrong with their product, just the franchise. :tgrumble::tmad:

[Topsu]

I have a plan to try and make everyone from Chameleon to Toxeem eventually.
Have you finished anyone and if you have, how about some pictures? I might get ideas for my own ones from those too...

[turtlelife]

Have you finished anyone and if you have, how about some pictures? I might get ideas for my own ones from those too...

Hey Topsu, I PM'd you instead of hijacking Vaughn's Thread about my customs.

[VaughnMichael]

New pics of my latest custom in his unpainted form coming tonight.

[GK Punk]

Is this what you've been working on that you mentioned on Facebook?

[VaughnMichael]

Is this what you've been working on that you mentioned on Facebook?
That'd be correct :)

[Powder]

That'd be correct :)


GOoOoD... heheh.

< has been anxiously awaiting.

[VaughnMichael]

Before:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YSzzRLBav4Q/S-Pym2EeGMI/AAAAAAAAAL0/2ROspPO0qMw/s1600/mlhulk_foom1.jpg
After:
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YSzzRLBav4Q/S-P3kNJcW6I/AAAAAAAAAM0/ZUWJHA82xl4/s1600/100_4474.JPG
You can check out the rest of the images @ my blog:
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2010/05/making-of-warrior.html

[Topsu]

Warrior Dragon looks great so far, can't wait to see finished version! How big does he stand compared to turtles, I'm curious. He's in scale anyway, since he was able to change his size....

[RayH]

That looks pretty impressive, very imposing. I like the how the leg armor came out.

are you using super sculpey for that? Because i have to give you a very strong warning. back when i started doing customs, and i did customs using super sculpey. At the time it seemed fine. but after 3 to 4 years all my super sculpey customs just fell apart. and i did nothing with them excpect display them in a glass shelf. and i know lots of people who have similar problems.

i always warn about super sculpey. Cause like i said it won't really seem like a problem right now, it'll crack apart and i'd hate to see a cool custom fall apart.

[kool75uk1]

:teek:Great work!, you do amazing customs.

[Spitfire]

Looking totally awesome. Can't wait to see it painted.

[VaughnMichael]

Warrior Dragon looks great so far, can't wait to see finished version! How big does he stand compared to turtles, I'm curious. He's in scale anyway, since he was able to change his size....
Thanks so much! He's pretty damn big lol I'll be sure to take pics of him with other figures so everyone can see.
That looks pretty impressive, very imposing. I like the how the leg armor came out.

are you using super sculpey for that? Because i have to give you a very strong warning. back when i started doing customs, and i did customs using super sculpey. At the time it seemed fine. but after 3 to 4 years all my super sculpey customs just fell apart. and i did nothing with them excpect display them in a glass shelf. and i know lots of people who have similar problems.

i always warn about super sculpey. Cause like i said it won't really seem like a problem right now, it'll crack apart and i'd hate to see a cool custom fall apart.

Thanks so much it means a lot!
I am and have been for all of my others and you're correct about things breaking or cracking.
I've been able to fix them though with little to no problem at all.
But yeah I'm looking into using apoxie when I can gather some cash up to buy it.
:teek:Great work!, you do amazing customs.
Hey thank you, many more on the way! Now including a 2k3 character.
Looking totally awesome. Can't wait to see it painted.
Me also, paint is going to take about a week or 2 since I have to put so many coats of paint on it but taking my time with this will be well worth it I think. :)

[VaughnMichael]

Updated with a suprise custom Agent Bishop.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/vaughnmichael/Bishop1.jpg
There's an image on page 1 but you can see more and larger images on my blog.
There's also more information about the custom on my blog.
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2010/05/bishops-gambit.html

[Powder]

Sneak peeks FTW! As I've said, it looks great & the new photos do it justice.

[whiskeytango]

Before:
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_YSzzRLBav4Q/S-Pym2EeGMI/AAAAAAAAAL0/2ROspPO0qMw/s1600/mlhulk_foom1.jpg
After:
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_YSzzRLBav4Q/S-P3kNJcW6I/AAAAAAAAAM0/ZUWJHA82xl4/s1600/100_4474.JPG
You can check out the rest of the images @ my blog:
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2010/05/making-of-warrior.html

very very nice so far. What sculpting compound do you use? I've been using Aves Fixit, but am always on the look out for new product.

[VaughnMichael]

Sneak peeks FTW! As I've said, it looks great & the new photos do it justice.
Thanks man! :)
This Bishop custom was out of the blue, I was looking at The Question figure and was like damn that would work good for Bishop lol
very very nice so far. What sculpting compound do you use? I've been using Aves Fixit, but am always on the look out for new product.
Thanks expect the finished product tonight, I'm usuing super sculpy.
I'm looking to use something better though.

[Spitfire]

I like it. I think that came out well and appears it was an easy job. The only suggestion I have is giving him some kind of weapon like he used in the show. I don't recall him ever using handguns, but I could be wrong. Maybe a chain with a claw like in "Bishop's Gambit".

[VaughnMichael]

I like it. I think that came out well and appears it was an easy job. The only suggestion I have is giving him some kind of weapon like he used in the show. I don't recall him ever using handguns, but I could be wrong. Maybe a chain with a claw like in "Bishop's Gambit".
Thanks spit, I just thought he looked good with them.
To me Bishops the kind of guy who could use anything as a weapon lol
But I did think about making the weapons you suggested there.
Maybe some time down the line. :)

[VaughnMichael]

Warrior Dragon is done at last!
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/132/l_208d78cfdf5b43f7825a3123d6613c04.png
You can see the turn around on the first page of this thread and you can see larger photos and information over at my blog. :)
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2010/05/warrior-dragon-part-2.html
Thanks guys, you've all been a huge inspiration to me.

[Powder]

F*ckin' amazing. I knew he'd be big, but not HUGE! This thing is so bonkers. Its easily in the top three list of my favorite customs of yours. I'd love to see it with the wrestling turtles in true archie fashion :twink:

[Candy Kappa]

that is amazing!

[Topsu]

Just awesome, maybe I'll borrow this recipe someday. To be honest, I don't think there are other figures that fit so well for this. How'd you do those black lines in his armor, was it first black and then painted over it?

Bishop looks great too, but I can't help but think of Matrix when I see him...

[TMNachoT]

Cool! As usual, a great work!
May i ask you about Warrior Dragon? Where did he apperead? comics? toon?
Cheers!

[***First of Two Latin Kings***]

He was a main character in the early-mid Archie Adventure series, Playmates made an action figure of him, but for legal reasons they had to call him "Hothead" (The Warrior Dragon) just as Man Ray became Ray Fillet (which kind of annoys me).

[Spitfire]

Like I said on FB amazing. I love that pic of him with the turtles. Maybe one day if we meet up Vaughn and me could do a picture of him with the wrestler turtles but as of right now I have Raph and Mikey. Can't wait for Don and Leo. Vaughn did an awesome package for them that I haven't removed them from. It would be epic to see you make a package for this beast.

[TheCanadiandrome]

Warrior Dragon is done at last!
http://c1.ac-images.myspacecdn.com/images02/132/l_208d78cfdf5b43f7825a3123d6613c04.png
You can see the turn around on the first page of this thread and you can see larger photos and information over at my blog. :)
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2010/05/warrior-dragon-part-2.html
Thanks guys, you've all been a huge inspiration to me.

that's so cool

[TMNachoT]

He was a main character in the early-mid Archie Adventure series, Playmates made an action figure of him, but for legal reasons they had to call him "Hothead" (The Warrior Dragon) just as Man Ray became Ray Fillet (which kind of annoys me).

ah, ok. i know hothead, but he´s red, right?
cheers!

[Candy Kappa]

ah, ok. i know hothead, but he´s red, right?
cheers!

yellow in the comics

[shuriken]

Wow dude that's pretty awesome. Nice job on the Hothead/warrior Dragon.

[Ulisses31]

WOW amazing Dragon...http://grayskullmuseum.saveboard.com/users/1414/94/26/67/smiles/700525.gif

http://grayskullmuseum.saveboard.com/users/1414/94/26/67/smiles/397463.gif

[Jester]

Awesome work, Vaughn. As usual.

[Raph]

Yeah the Warrior Dragon is definitly one of your best! And that Kala with her pet Grybyx!! So awesome!

[VaughnMichael]

Thanks everyone, I'm working on finishing up the Black costume Raph's that I owe some of you as well as finishing my custom Nobody figure.

[KittenBunny]

You my friend are a SUPERSTAR! I cant wait to get my hands on one of your customs, How did you do that packaging design? Its spectacular. PS. My favourites are the wrestling turtles, esp. Leo. One question though, in the archie artwork design images I have of the Mike wrestling figure, his costume is actually much more a deeper red colour than the light orange you have done there... what is the real color its suppose to be? is the picture I have wrong?

[AquaParade]

Vaughn, these customs are spectacular. My favorite is definitely Carnage, but I adore the packing you put together for the wrestling turtles. Awesome.

Looking forward to seeing more!

[VaughnMichael]

You my friend are a SUPERSTAR! I cant wait to get my hands on one of your customs, How did you do that packaging design? Its spectacular. PS. My favourites are the wrestling turtles, esp. Leo. One question though, in the archie artwork design images I have of the Mike wrestling figure, his costume is actually much more a deeper red colour than the light orange you have done there... what is the real color its suppose to be? is the picture I have wrong?
Well thank you KittenBunny,
I'll e-mail you back about the customs, But the Dr. Quease is something I'm making for myself at the moment.
I don't mind making another though.
I designed it in photoshop and then printed it out after a few sizing tests.
Cool I'm glad you like the wrestling tmnt's, they're for forum member spitfire.
Mikey in the comic pages inside is a much lighter color, I never go by the covers because more often than not they had odd designs or colors that didn't match up with the comic.
Vaughn, these customs are spectacular. My favorite is definitely Carnage, but I adore the packing you put together for the wrestling turtles. Awesome.
Looking forward to seeing more!
Thanks so much! I think he's my favorite so far also, Warrior Dragon being my second.
Next up is Nobody & Stump Wrestling Donatello.:)

[Leonardo19]

I dont know how i missed them but amazing job on the Bishop and Dragon customs. very inspiring. i need to get back into my customs.

[KittenBunny]

Well thank you KittenBunny,
I'll e-mail you back about the customs, But the Dr. Quease is something I'm making for myself at the moment.
I don't mind making another though.
I designed it in photoshop and then printed it out after a few sizing tests.
Cool I'm glad you like the wrestling tmnt's, they're for forum member spitfire.
Mikey in the comic pages inside is a much lighter color, I never go by the covers because more often than not they had odd designs or colors that didn't match up with the comic.

Thanks so much! I think he's my favorite so far also, Warrior Dragon being my second.
Next up is Nobody & Stump Wrestling Donatello.:)

Hahah I'm happy that your making it for yourself as I want to be one of the few who has one when its made, so just the artist and I have one ;) I want the Dr Queese to look as exact as possible to the figure in the catalouge down to every last detail, and as mine is another your making, please make it as good as your own, if not better ;)

Kb x PS. I have another specific figure I want to talk about also.

[VaughnMichael]

Hahah I'm happy that your making it for yourself as I want to be one of the few who has one when its made, so just the artist and I have one ;) I want the Dr Queese to look as exact as possible to the figure in the catalouge down to every last detail, and as mine is another your making, please make it as good as your own, if not better ;)

Kb x PS. I have another specific figure I want to talk about also.
Ok, I sent you a lengthy reply to your e-mail.

[VaughnMichael]

Nobody is up on the first page and as well as my blog!
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2010/11/nobodys-fool.html

[Spitfire]

Great work, cape looks cool. I like the highlights. Look forward to the next one!

[Powder]

Very dope!

[Topsu]

Really good work! I just wonder why his legs look shorter in pictures than they really are (compared to basefigure), maybe it's the colors...

[BoggleKng]

VM, when do you start taking comissions? ;-)

[***First of Two Latin Kings***]

Hahah I'm happy that your making it for yourself as I want to be one of the few who has one when its made, so just the artist and I have one ;)

What would stop another artist from making one? :tlol:

[VaughnMichael]

Great work, cape looks cool. I like the highlights. Look forward to the next one!
Thanks Spit! The next one is for you so I'd hope so lol
Very dope!
Thanks man!
Really good work! I just wonder why his legs look shorter in pictures than they really are (compared to basefigure), maybe it's the colors...
Thank you, I honestly have no idea. I didn't swap legs out or anything.
One of my next customs is going to be the first time I try my hand at swapping body parts besides hands.
VM, when do you start taking comissions? ;-)
I'm finishing up the last of the Black Costum Wrestling Raphael's that I owe people and am currently taking on new commissions.
I will let everyone know though that I'm getting booked up with new work quite quickly at the moment.
So if you'd like me to make a custom for you get to me soon and let me know what you would like and I'll quote you a price.
What would stop another artist from making one? :tlol:
Not knowing how? Not being an artist? Not being good at what they do?
Those things come to mind. :P

[VaughnMichael]

Up next: Stump Wrestling Donatello, Old Toon Splinter, Cha Ocho, & a Big Ass Triceraton!

[raphfan84]

Those looks really good Vaughn, I like the all black Raphael.

[TheCanadiandrome]

Up next: Stump Wrestling Donatello, Old Toon Splinter, Cha Ocho, & a Big Ass Triceraton!

sweetness dude :tcool:

[VaughnMichael]

Stump Wrestling Donatello is done!
You can check it out on the first page or check it out here:
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2010/12/stump-wrestling-donatello.html

[Loco]

Stump Wrestling Donatello is done!

Ha yeah that's funny cuz we we're talking about this yesterday with hellturtle , we was like " where is the don wrestling from Vaughn " and it comes today :)
don's nice , great paint on the bandana ;) and eh.. nice eyebrows :tconfuse: what's next ?

[Jester]

Sweet work Vaughn. Any plans to do Cryin' Houn'?

[VaughnMichael]

Ha yeah that's funny cuz we we're talking about this yesterday with hellturtle , we was like " where is the don wrestling from Vaughn " and it comes today :)
don's nice , great paint on the bandana ;) and eh.. nice eyebrows :tconfuse: what's next ?
Things have been crazy, friend moved away yesterday, fixing up my home, christmas, chanukah, depression...etc.
Thanks so much though and if you look Mikey has the brows as well and I did that nearly a year ago. ;)
I'm considerng taking a whats coming next photo of works in progress..if enough people want to see it I'll do it.
Sweet work Vaughn. Any plans to do Cryin' Houn'?
Oh yeah, he's on the list..I've had his base figure for some time now. :)

[Lordmylar06]

I wanna see what's next. Maybe another huge friggin character. The Hothead you did was quite nice. Maybe one of the Mutanimals?

[Jester]

Oh yeah, he's on the list..I've had his base figure for some time now. :)
*tries to think of some big 4 armed figure....*

[TheCanadiandrome]

Stump Wrestling Donatello is done!


that is cool

[Eiko]

Wow that Don looks really cool. :)

[Hellturtle]

i realy love your wrestling tmnt customs dude the are the best i never seen on the net , i'm honest ;);)

[VaughnMichael]

Updated w/ Cha Ocho custom on the first page.
You can see and read more about the figure HERE:
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2011/03/cha-ocho.html

[oldmanwinters]

Updated w/ Cha Ocho custom on the first page.
You can see and read more about the figure HERE:
http://vaughnmichael.blogspot.com/2011/03/cha-ocho.html

Wow, you did a really solid job! I never thought anybody would make a Cha Ocho figure! A competent Foot Soldier... who knew?:D

[Jester]

Your customs never cease to amaze me.

[VaughnMichael]

Thanks so much guys :)

[psychoandy]

Pretty solid work, man.

[Topsu]

That Cha Ocho is just great, I thought you couldn't possibly do any better figures, and here you go and top yourself. Just brilliant.

[TMNachoT]

Fantástico!!!

[Spitfire]

That's bad ass. You should take some pics of him with Leo.

[VaughnMichael]

thanks so much everyone! Another Mirage character will be next and he's a mutant. ;)

[Master Splinter]

thanks so much everyone! Another Mirage character will be next and he's a mutant. ;)

Oh yea, I know who it is too, I can't wait to see this one.

-ms

[Jester]

Leatherhead?

[VaughnMichael]

Leatherhead?
Not yet.
&
Here is a work in progress.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/vaughnmichael/BloodsuckerCustom.jpg

[Jester]

Not yet.
&
Here is a work in progress.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/vaughnmichael/BloodsuckerCustom.jpg
Ahhhh...Bloodsucker!

[VaughnMichael]

Ahhhh...Bloodsucker!
:) things have been going a bit slower than I'd have liked them to because of the trip and my new job.
But he's almost done in my eyes.

[Jester]

:) things have been going a bit slower than I'd have liked them to because of the trip and my new job.
But he's almost done in my eyes.
Is Venom's texture going to prove problematic?

[VaughnMichael]

Is Venom's texture going to prove problematic?
I'm not happy that I had to use a Marvel Legends figure as I hate the over articulation and odd standing legs.
But there are no DC Universe figures like this.
The texture is perfect for Bloodsucker, well after sending it down anyway. :)

[Jester]

I'm not happy that I had to use a Marvel Legends figure as I hate the over articulation and odd standing legs.
But there are no DC Universe figures like this.
The texture is perfect for Bloodsucker, well after sending it down anyway. :)
Bizzaro? Parasite? I'd have to go through my DC figures to look...

[TheCanadiandrome]

lookin good, can't wait to see it finished

[VaughnMichael]

Bizzaro? Parasite? I'd have to go through my DC figures to look...
See I thought of Parasite as well and I have him here and will probably do a feet & hand swap on Venom.
But the thing is Bloodsucker towers over the turtles and the dcuc figures are about the same size, so I needed a big guy.

[Jester]

See I thought of Parasite as well and I have him here and will probably do a feet & hand swap on Venom.
But the thing is Bloodsucker towers over the turtles and the dcuc figures are about the same size, so I needed a big guy.
Understood.

I wish I had all the pieces of Despero...was it...he was a BAF when they released Wonder Woman, but I never found all the figures.

[Wes]

I'm not happy that I had to use a Marvel Legends figure as I hate the over articulation
NO SUCH THING ;)

Loving Bloodsucker -- can't wait to see him finished! That was one of the few Mirage stories I actually enjoyed as a kid. :)

[***First of Two Latin Kings***]

That was one of the few Mirage stories I actually enjoyed as a kid. :)

Are you serious???

We can no longer be friends.:tlol:

[AquaParade]

Hell yea, Vaugn! I'm very excited to see what is probably the first Bloodsucker figure ever:D

[Powder]

Beastly! This will be rad for sure.

[TurtlePower1001]

love these customs! favorite by far must be warrior dragon

[VaughnMichael]

Thanks everyone he's almost done and work on another one has started.
The next one is an Archie Adventures character.

[Jester]

Well that narrows it down...
:D
Wild speculation time! Dreadmon!?

[VaughnMichael]

Well that narrows it down...
:D
Wild speculation time! Dreadmon!?
Nope, it's a bad guy.

[Jester]

Hmmm...
Armaggon is too obvious...

[VaughnMichael]

Hmmm...
Armaggon is too obvious...
That and I've not come across a base figure that's right for him yet.

[Jester]

Hmm...mutant...mutant...
Gecko? One of the Uncanny Trio? Scum Bug?

[VaughnMichael]

Hmm...mutant...mutant...
Gecko? One of the Uncanny Trio? Scum Bug?
Never said it was a mutant. ;)

[Jester]

Never said it was a mutant. ;)
You're right....I used the wrong clue. Mutant was the Mirage character clue. Bad Guy is Archie Clue...hmmm.

[VaughnMichael]

You're right....I used the wrong clue. Mutant was the Mirage character clue. Bad Guy is Archie Clue...hmmm.
But he's also not human.

[Jester]

What do the vultures call him?

[VaughnMichael]

What do the vultures call him?
I probably best friend lol
He's rather large and is going to go with 2 of the customs I've done already.
If that hint doesn't give him away I don't know what will lol
Btw this is fun :)

[Jester]

Good God y'all?

[VaughnMichael]

Good God y'all?
I think I'll keep ya guessing and post it as soon as I'm done.
He's always been one of my favorite designs and have wanted a toy of him and the other 3 that go with him since I was a kid.

[Topsu]

He's always been one of my favorite designs and have wanted a toy of him and the other 3 that go with him since I was a kid.
One of the four horsemen, I'd say War because you mentioned his size.

[Jester]

Yeah, we were wrong. It's Pestilence. I thought War too, given the "size." My "Good God, y'all" was a guess at War...HUH!!, but I was wrong....:P

[Topsu]

My "Good God, y'all" was a guess at War...HUH!!, but I was wrong....:P
Huh? How was that guess at War, could you enlighten me?

[VaughnMichael]

One of the four horsemen, I'd say War because you mentioned his size.
It's Pestilence.
Famine will be after him and I while I want to make War he's someone I'm going to hold off on for awhile as he's going to be a pain in the ass to sculpt.

[Ninjinister]

Huh? How was that guess at War, could you enlighten me?

_d8C4AIFgUg

[Jester]

Huh? How was that guess at War, could you enlighten me?
Sorry man, I didn't take into account you were Finnish. Ninji posted a video of the song. :P

[oldmanwinters]

I know this is somewhat off-topic, but where did Murphy get the idea for "Pestilence" as one of the four "Horsemen of the Apocalypse?"

The biblical reference (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+6%3A1-2&version=NKJV) is to a rider on a white horse who should probably be named "Conquest."

I guess "War, Famine, and Pestilence" just sounded better?:-?

[VaughnMichael]

I know this is somewhat off-topic, but where did Murphy get the idea for "Pestilence" as one of the four "Horsemen of the Apocalypse?"

The biblical reference (http://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Revelation+6%3A1-2&version=NKJV) is to a rider on a white horse who should probably be named "Conquest."

I guess "War, Famine, and Pestilence" just sounded better?:-?
I think people have been calling the 4h that for a long time, I've always known it as Pestilence.

[Jester]

Pestilence was also one of Apocalypse's 4 horsemen. I always thought the "white horse" rider was Christ himself.
EDIT: And I am wrong...though Christ does ride a white horse....that ain't him. I read my wife's Revelation notes (we both took the course...and we are both still going, "Wha?") and the Doc has them listed way off of the traditional "War, Pestilence, Famine, and Death." Heck the subs on most translations of Revelation have Death and Pestilence used interchangeably.
To quote the ever accurate wikipedia: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Horsemen_of_the_Apocalypse#Pestilence.2C_War. 2C_Famine_and_Death)
Pestilence, War, Famine and Death

This interpretation replaces Conquest with Pestilence. This interpretation is generally espoused by those unfamiliar with the actual Bible texts which describe the Four Horsemen. Though it is apocryphal, this interpretation remains most commonly used as the basis for popular culture's uses of the Four Horsemen concept.

The origins of the name "Pestilence" as a distinct Horseman are unclear, though certain Bible versions, such as the Jerusalem Bible do refer to Death—rather than Conquest—as "Plague" (a synonym for Pestilence).

[Candy Kappa]

Pestilence steals Conquest place often in pop culture references. (Kalki is the best "horseman" anyway :P )

Besides they don't even have horses in TMNT

[Jester]

Too true. And Death is barely one of the 4 in Archie's telling too. He's a puppet master type figure.

[oldmanwinters]

To quote the ever accurate wikipedia: (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Horsemen_of_the_Apocalypse#Pestilence.2C_War. 2C_Famine_and_Death)
Pestilence, War, Famine and Death


Ah, ok, I'm not aware of the history of interpretations on that point.

I was always curios about that point.

Hopefully this won't turn into a discussion worthy of the "Volcanic Asteroid." :-P

[Jester]

Nah, we didn't bash peoples beliefs...considering they are our beliefs...:P

[VaughnMichael]

Anyway...
Here's an updated pic of Bloodsucker.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/vaughnmichael/0421010236.jpg
I've been working on him bit by bit as my new job takes up most of my time.
But as you can see he's got differnt hands and feet now.
I was ready to glue on his little deelybob sucker things but sadly what I had wanted to use is too thick to attach under his mouth.
Now I'm a bit stumped as to what to use.
Suggestions are more than welcome!

[Jester]

Anyway...
Here's an updated pic of Bloodsucker.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/vaughnmichael/0421010236.jpg
I've been working on him bit by bit as my new job takes up most of my time.
But as you can see he's got differnt hands and feet now.
I was ready to glue on his little deelybob sucker things but sadly what I had wanted to use is too thick to attach under his mouth.
Now I'm a bit stumped as to what to use.
Suggestions are more than welcome!
Nice use of Parasite's hands and feet. In my head I'm thinking of those little metal "washers" with teeth pointing in or out...like these. (http://www.mwindustries.com/washers.html)

[VaughnMichael]

Nice use of Parasite's hands and feet. In my head I'm thinking of those little metal "washers" with teeth pointing in or out...like these. (http://www.mwindustries.com/washers.html)
My old idea was to use a Koosh ball type thing I found at Michaels art store but the plastic it's connected to is way too thick. :\
And for referance sake here is what they look like on him.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/vaughnmichael/Bloodsuckermouth.jpg

[Jester]

My old idea was to use a Koosh ball type thing I found at Michaels art store but the plastic it's connected to is way too thick. :
And for referance sake here is what they look like on him.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v177/vaughnmichael/Bloodsuckermouth.jpg
Ahh...gotcha. I was thinking the actual sucker...as you can no doubt tell.

As for the tendrils...I got nothing.

[discordiatookie]

Wow, Bloodsucker is looking awesome so far! And Cha Ocho is superb also. The only thing I can think of for they tendrils is blu-tac or plasticine or something - not very great for long term though.

[VaughnMichael]

Wow, Bloodsucker is looking awesome so far! And Cha Ocho is superb also. The only thing I can think of for they tendrils is blu-tac or plasticine or something - not very great for long term though.
Hey thanks so much and yeah this is gonna be tough.

[TheCanadiandrome]

wow man, lookin good. can't wait to see finished product

[VaughnMichael]

wow man, lookin good. can't wait to see finished product
Thanks!
Btw I think I may have solved the problem of Bloodsuckers tendrils.

[rufus]

Some pretty sweet looking customs.

[Jester]

I think I may have solved the problem of Bloodsuckers tendrils.
Good. Can't wait to see it. Gonna make him a ranger uniform?

[Spitfire]

Thanks!
Btw I think I may have solved the problem of Bloodsuckers tendrils.

If your idea didn't work I have a solution.

http://bogleech.com/junk/tcthulhu.jpg

He has tentacles coming out his head that should work. They go from skinny to thick but you don't need much and the tips are quite slim.

A cheaper option find a pack of rubber sea creatures that has a octopus in it
http://www.tapirback.com/tapirgal/gifts/friends/aquatic/octopus-quality-plastic-449.jpg