The Le: What advice do you have for other modders out there, just starting out?

Toychop: Don’t sweat other customizers. I mean, look at guys like Goldeeh or Myke Dela Paz. Holy crap…I have no idea how those guys do what they do. They’re either from the future (and passing off not-yet-released HeroClix figures as their own work), OR they graduated from Hogwarts. It’s the only explanation for mods that slick. If I graded my customs against theirs, I’d come up short every time. So instead I admire what they do—aspire to reach that level—and slowly up my game with each new project.

I dig around online, check out gaming blogs that offer tutorials, experiment with new techniques and try not to lose sight that this is a hobby. The second it starts to feel like a competition is when I put down the x-acto.  

For potential modders looking for that first step, I’d say grab a scrap figure and play around with paint apps. Learn the hard way on a “test figure” how primers work, what colors will need a second coat, blah, blah, blah. Then choose a figure and start small: give a character a new paint job. Change Quicksilver’s blue Avengers costume into his green Brotherhood suit, or give all your Henchmen different color shirts.

When you feel comfortable with paints, try your hand on some minor frankensteining; swap a Logan head onto a S.H.I.E.L.D. agent for a shake-n-bake Wolverine custom. Manage to pull that off without losing a finger…? Great, now try attaching an upper torso onto a different lower torso, or give a figure a new set of arms, etc. You’ll be surprised how quickly your work will improve.  

My last bit of advice: Neosporin. Stock up.

To see more of Toychop's work, stop by the Toychop Blog!



"Toychop" is a freelancer and avid modder. You can contact him (and find more of his mods) at his Toychop Blog Website.