(Lead) Mountain Musings - "Partially-Painted/Printed Pledge” [III/IV] February 2026

Last month's output was largely dominated by "Games Workshop" and "Wargames Foundry"

Sadly there can be little doubt then when compared to some of my past January outputs, the last four weeks have proved pretty disappointing productivity wise. Indeed, I didn't manage to pigment even half of what I achieved just a couple of years ago in 2023. Having said that though, a lot of time was lost due to a slow start, and currently my enthusiasm for the hobby is so strong - especially for "Wargames Foundry" and their Napoleonic range, that I fully expect to make up some ground throughout February.

In addition, I've temporarily postponed a couple of new projects I had begun to 'scratch away' at, in favour of firmly focusing upon my Partially-Painted/Printed Pledge (PPPP) and making far more in-roads towards my target tally for that. Last year I managed to finally finish 246 points worth of semi-completed figures, and was planning to better that this time round. However, having just past my personal challenge's half-way stage, I've only got 119 points tabletop ready - so have set aside my plans for Napoleonic cavalry and cannon units (some of which have literally just arrived through my letter box), and swapped them out for a sizeable selection of already-based Austrian Fusiliers, Moscow Militiamen and Frenchmen marching in greatcoats.

"In military operations, hours determine success and campaigns."

To get things off with something of a bang I have finally managed to get a coat of "Vallejo" Matt Varnish on an eighth skirmisher I have had loitering around my painting desk for quite some while. Found inside the “Wargames Foundry" blister FN054 - Light Infantry Chasseurs Advancing, the miniature Frenchman was undercoated using a little "Vallejo" Surface Primer Black and "Citadel" Abaddon Black, before having his uniform/cuffs layered in "Vallejo" Heavy Blue and "Citadel" Drakenhof Nightshade.

The soldier's various leather straps were treated to some White Star by "Two Thin Coats", before being 'weathered' with some watered-down "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade. Furthermore, I 'picked out' all of his extra details, using colours such as as "Vallejo" Heavy Green and "Citadel" Biel-Tan Green for the man's epaulettes and sabre-briquet ribbons, "Vallejo" Sombre Grey and "Citadel" Nuln Oil on his bedroll, and "Two Thin Coats" White, Skulker Yellow, and "Citadel" Reikland Fleshshade for the Frenchman's helmet plume.

January 2026 - "Blood Bowl", Napoleonic Soldiers and Super-Heroes dominate the current chart

Alongside my burgeoning Black Powder collection, I am also planning on working through a number of primed "Crooked Dice Game Design Studio" models I've had lurking in a drawer beside me for many a month. Whether this encourages to return to the company's skirmish ruleset "7TV" I don't know. But there's a good chance many of the figures will make an appearance on my "Silver Bayonet" tabletop as I primarily use Karl Perrotton's miniatures for any encounters my warband might have with wandering monsters, the Undead or musket-carrying bandits.

Lastly, I'm still very much in the mood for producing various items of scenery with my "Bambu Lab" A1 Mini, and am quietly working away in the background on some of the terrific terrain I received as free STL (Standard Triangle Language) files from "Steamforged Games" as part of their Warmachine 3D: Gravediggers release in April 2025. I've also got a bit of a backlog building courtesy of "Saucermen Studios" and their "Beyond The Trenches Of Despair" Kickstarter. So expect to see a fair few Whether ruined walls, trench systems, bunkers, towers and concrete barricades appearing over the coming months.

"Fickle Madame Victory Remained Firmly Out Of Reach For Everybody."

"This battle was a draw."

"Hello Blood Bowl fans, and welcome to another mind-blowing broadcast of Friday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg and along with Elf playing legend-turned-commentator Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be bringing you all the biggest rumours circulating around our favourite amateur incarnation of Fantasy Football.”

“Once again, much of this programme's focus sits with Bluebeard's Bombardiers, who have forked out an impressive 140,000 copper pieces for the dynamic duo of Beggerlug Christmas and Uthaek Mudshaper - Two Dwarf Blocker Linemen who really mean business."

"Mutual exhaustion led to a truce being called, and the leaders of both sides attempted to parley."

"You're spot on there, Jim. This pair of 28mm scale second-hand metal miniatures were undercoated in “Vallejo” Heavy Blue, and subsequently had their trousers, padded shirts and helmets washed with "Citadel" Drakenhof Nightshade. The Dwarves' boots were then 'picked out' "Citadel" Abaddon Black, before their steel toe-caps, and other bits of armour were treated to a combination of "Vallejo" Gunmetal and "Citadel" Nuln Oil.

"Sticking with the club's colour scheme, both Christmas and Mudshaper's gloves and shoulder-pads were later pigmented with "Vallejo" Heavy Red, given a liberal splosh of "Citadel" Carroburg Crimson, and a carefully placed highlight or two of (more) "Vallejo" Heavy Red. Lastly, Beggerlug's famous beard had a little "Two Thin Coats" White Star daubed all over his facial hair, as well as a dash of "Citadel" Nuln Oil."

"Games Workshop" WIPs - The beginnings of the Dumbledune Daisies; a Dwarf Blocker and Blitzer

"Marvellous stuff, Thom. But these welcome additions to Bruldrin Bluebeard the Third's impressive team roster isn't the only news of the hour, is it..? I understand that a third Dwarf team has announced its intention to compete locally, and they're the Dumbledune Daisies. Just before this transmission terminates, can you give our viewers any insights into this latest Blood Bowl Sevens squad..?"

"For now we just know that their manager is head-hunting as many Troll Slayers and Blitzers as the rules permit for an amateur side, and the players will apparently be sporting dark green uniforms with white helmets. Furthermore, there's a lot of gossip that they intend to plaster their faces with yellow paint just prior to kick-off..!!"

"Dwarfs Tend To Use A Running Game..."

"...Grinding their opponents into the ground as they go."

"Salutations Blood Bowl fans, and welcome to this year's first exciting edition of Friday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg and along with my pointy-eared co-commentator Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be bringing you all the latest news featuring our favourite amateur incarnation of Fantasy Football.”

“By far the biggest Blood Bowl Sevens' story is that Bluebeard's Bombardiers have managed to make two more signings for their squad, with Bazzel Merrygut being paid 85,000 copper pieces and Undig Stronghood receiving 70,000 copper bits for his time. Both second edition Dwarves will join team captain Reuben Redboots on the pitch, and are a clear example of the money gold miner-turned-club owner Bruldrin Bluebeard the Third is willing to pay so as to field a competitive side."

"Most Dwarf teams believe that have a lasting right to alter the laws as they choose."

“Indeed they are, Jim. The two 28mm scale second-hand metal miniatures were primed with a double layer of “Vallejo” Heavy Blue, before having their trousers, padded shirts and helmets shaded in "Citadel" Drakenhof Nightshade. The Dwarves' boots were then base-coated using either a combination of "Vallejo" Beasty Brown and "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade, or Abaddon Black and Nuln Oil."

"I understand that the duo's steel toe-caps and other metal adornments, such as Stronghood's spiked shoulder-pads, were 'picked out' using a combination of "Vallejo" Gunmetal and "Citadel" Nuln Oil, Thom..? That should really put a glint in the eyes of their opponents on a sunny day."

"Games Workshop" WIPs - Three more Dwarf players have been primed and had their details 'boxed in'

"Correct, Jim. Furthermore, both Merrygut and Stronghood's gloves and shoulder-pads were treated to plenty of "Vallejo" Heavy Red, a good dousing in "Citadel" Carroburg Crimson, and finally a patient highlight of (more) "Vallejo" Heavy Red. If nothing else Bluebeard's Bombardiers should look pretty colourful on the pitch - whether it be grass-covered turf or the far less physically forgiving Astrogranite." 

"Thanks, Thom. Now just before we leave you I understand that the club have also announced their intention to add even more Dwarf Blocker Linemen to their ranks in the near future. So expect an exciting update when we see you next on Friday Night Football..."

"It All Began More Than A Century Ago..."

"...On a battlefield somewhere in the Old World."

"Hello Blood Bowl fans. We're delighted to be back with this surprise edition of Tuesday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg, and alongside retired Elven Thrower Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be sharing with you all the latest gossip about Blood Bowl Sevens’ most recent signing - Reuben Redboots.”

“The Dwarf Blitzer has finally signed on the dotted line for amateur side, Bluebeard’s Bombardiers, and will be paid an impressive 80,000 copper pieces per season. However, seeing as the team is owned by wealthy gold mine owner Bruldrin Bluebeard the Third, I strongly doubt he'll be the most expensive player recruited by this burgeoning club.

"Games Workshop" WIPs - Some early progress on the Dwarf Blitzer

“Oh absolutely Jim. This 28mm scale second-hand metal miniature was initially (re)primed with a double helping of “Vallejo” Heavy Blue, in order to completely cover the sculpt’s previous yellow and blue colour scheme. The dark-skinned Dwarf's boots, gloves and shoulder-pads were then treated to a combination of "Vallejo" Heavy Red and "Citadel" Carroburg Crimson, before being patiently highlighted with a little more "Vallejo" Heavy Red.

"All of the Blitzer's metal areas - such as his steel toe-caps, his knee-pads, face-guard, helmet spike, knuckle-dusters and numerous rivets -  were all 'picked out' with a dollop of "Citadel" Abaddon Black, a spot of "Vallejo" Gunmetal, and a generous splosh of "Citadel" Nuln Oil. Lastly, the player's belt buckle was given a lick of "Vallejo" Gold and "Citadel" Agrax Earthshade, whilst his "Vallejo" Heavy Blue trousers, shirt and helmet were shaded in "Citadel" Drakenhof Nightshade, and highlighted with (more) "Vallejo" Heavy Blue."

"Games Workshop" WIPs - Three upcoming Dwarf Blockers

"And according to a rare interview with a local newspaper reporter just this past weekend, Reuben Redboots isn't the only dwarf old Bluebeard has his eye on recruiting either, Thom. In fact rumour has it that the prosperous proprietor plans to bring in a trio of hard-hitting Blocker Lineman into the squad too..?"

"That certainly seems to be the case, Jim. This wall of heavily-bearded brutality should prove a tough nut to crack in the Blood Bowl Sevens' league, and give Redboots just the sort of protection the blitzer needs to lead his fellow dwarves to endless victories. For now though, the three unnamed individuals are simply at the early stage of having their basic kit fitted."

"Quite so, Thom. Fingers crossed it won't be too long before these beefy fellows are out on the field. For now though that brings this latest broadcast to a close. But please do join us again when we'll be taking a closer look at some of this rising club's other players..."

“That Smells Good.”

“Halflings have been associated more closely with the culinary arts than the world of professional sport.”

"Felictations sports fans. I'm Jim Maddenberg, and welcome to another Monday Night Football special. This time round we'll be taking a quick look at one of three well-baked balls found within the plastic Greenfield Grasshuggers boxed set, as well as covering the Rusty Buckets second ‘friendly’ game of the season, against the Gravel Gut Sevens. So let’s head straight over to my fellow presenter, Thom Grassyglade…”

"Thanks Jim. This Halfling’s delicious-looking baguette was super-glued onto a 25mm circular base and undercoated using "Vallejo" Heavy Sienna. It was then shaded using some Strong Tone Quickshade by "The Army Painter", and dry-brushed with more "Vallejo" Heavy Sienna. Finally, its lettuce leaves were 'picked out' with “Vallejo” Heavy Grey and “Citadel” Biel-Tan Green. Whilst its tomatoes were treated to a combination of “Vallejo” Heavy Red and “Citadel” Crimson Carroburg.”

The Rusty Buckets kick off against the Gravel Gut Sevens

“Good stuff, Thom. Now ‘lettuce’ turn our attention to the latest game involving the amateur Dwarf club, the Rusty Buckets and their brutal battle against a formidably-sized Ogre team. Boy… Naghag Nightbane’s side really don’t seem to be making this an easy tour, even if the Gravel Gut Sevens were forced to field six Gnoblars throughout the match due to the super-expensive price-tag of the side’s Runt Punter and Blockers.

"Well things certainly seemed to be going the Dwarves' way to begin with, Jim, as their defensive combination of Linemen and Blitzers effectively stopped the incredibly dense Ogres from doing much - apart from succumbing to their own hapless Bone Head trait. Indeed, even a surprising break down one of the flanks by some unruly Gnoblar Linemen following a successful 'Throw Team-mate' play didn't initially appear to be too dangerous."

An Ogre Blocker outmuscles a Dwarf Lineman to make a hole for a Gnoblar

"Unfortunately for Nightbane's brave battlers however, an Ogre Blocker finally put his lack of intelligence to one side so as to put a particularly vulnerable dent in the Rusty Buckets' defensive line, and open up a clear path to the Dwarf End Zone for the one of the subspecies of hill-dwelling Goblins. Needless to say, the tiny, green-skinned Lineman made his way in for the Touchdown, and suddenly the visiting team were a score behind."

The Gravel Gut Sevens score to take an early(ish) lead in the match

"Still, that might not have been too much of a problem, Thom, with the Rusty Buckets bringing on star Runner, Lotgran Whitfoot, just before the kick-off. The diminutive speedster looked to have fully recovered from his previous game's injury, following the stadium's crowd getting their hands on him, and was soon in possession of the ball with the opponent's End Zone in his sights."

"Too right, Jim. The Dwarf side put on an impressive show of grim determination against their much larger opponents, and actually appeared to be holding their own, despite the Gravel Gut Sevens' star-players completely overcoming their Bone-Headedness. Sadly though, all of their bravery ultimately came to naught when Whitfoot strained a leg muscle just inches from making a game equalising score - even though the team had the opportunity to re-roll the failed Rush."

Lotgran Whitfoot pulls up injured just short of the Gravel Gut Sevens' End Zone

"To make matters worse, the short-sized 'speedster' was out for the rest of the match, and momentarily left his club-mates down a player with a group of Gnoblars heading for the ball. Only the Goblin cousins' cowardice prevented the tiny Linemen from taking possession again before the half-time whistle, as they were concerned their agility might let them down and somehow give the spiked pigskin back to their opponents."

The Rusty Buckets batter the Gravel Gut Sevens at the start of the second-half

"Things would certainly take something of a different turn in the second-half, Thom, with the Rusty Buckets offence once again fielding a full seven players, and soon getting the ball to star Blizter, Dozolir Deepgut. In fact, I can't recall a more violent series of clashes between two sides, as the heavily armoured Dwarves literally hurled themselves into the big bellies of the Gravel Gut Sevens, in an effort to breach the Ogres' defensive line."

"Of course. that doesn't mean for a second that Nightbane's team had everything go their own way, Jim. There were a couple of times when the Rusty Bucket players actually fell to the astro-granite senseless having attempted to block one of the Ogres and found their physical skills wanting. Quite a few Dwarf Linemen probably came away from this match eternally grateful for their Thick Skull trait."

Dozolir Deepgut scores a Touchdown to level the match

"True enough, Thom. Still, the Rusty Buckets did eventually manage to cajole the Gravel Gut Sevens to predominantly move aside just enough to give Dozolir Deepgut a chance to 'Rush' towards their End Zone. And unlike, Whitfoot, the Dwarf was able to make a successful score without succumbing to a Turn Over enforcing injury beforehand. The game was tied, with plenty of time left for a winning touchdown..."

"Indeed, it was, Jim, as the Ogre team once again decided to utilise their Throw Team-mate skill and lob a ball-carrying Gnoblar towards the Dwarves' End Zone. Admittedly, the throw catastrophically failed, but it still left both an opposing player and the pig-bladder well behind the Rusty Buckets' defensive line. So only a torn ligament on the final dice roll of the game prevented a slender-framed Greenskin from giving the Gravel Gut Sevens a win."

Misfortune strikes as a nameless Gnoblar Lineman pulls up close to the Dwarf End Zone

"Well that disappointingly concludes this report covering the Rusty Buckets' 'friendly' against the Gravel Gut Sevens, which despite ending in a score draw was clearly once again a moral victory for the Dwarf club. In the next broadcast, we'll be covering all the action from the touring amateur club's third game, so we'll both see you then..."

“The Dwarfs’ Reputation For Flamboyant Illegality…”

“…[Is what] makes them such a big hit with the fans..”

"Hello Blood Bowl fans, and welcome to an extra-long special edition of Monday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg, and alongside retired Elven Thrower Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be telling you all about Blood Bowl Sevens’ most recent signing - Dozolir Deepgut.”

“The Dwarf Blitzer has agreed to join amateur side, the Rusty Buckets, for a whopping 80,000 copper pieces, and was painted in precisely the same manner as the rest of his diminutive team-mates. This colour scheme predominantly contained the likes of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna and Heavy Brown, some Gunmetal dry-brushing, as well as plenty of “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade and "The Army Painter" Strong Tone Quickshade.”

The Rusty Buckets kick off against the Poked Eye

“Yeah. Yeah. Now you’ve got the boring stuff out of the way Jim, let’s turn our attention over to the Rusty Buckets first ‘friendly’ game of the season, against the Poked Eye. The Dwarves really picked a tough team to face at the start of their tour, especially as the Orcs appeared to do their level best to repeatedly misinterpret or forget certain rules of the game.”

“Well the match certainly started badly for Naghag Nightbane’s side, Thom, despite the weather conditions being perfect for a game. The Rusty Buckets’ kick-off went straight out of bounds, presenting the Orcs with possession right near the line of scrimmage. And boy, when those Greenskins got close to the second edition 28mm Dwarves on the pitch, they absolutely towered over them.”

An Orc Blitzer conveniently 'forgets' to roll for Rushing & successfully reaches the Dwarf End Zone for a score

“Very true, Jim. If it wasn’t for the solid armour value of the Dwarves’ protective clothing, there could easily have been a massacre straight from the referee’s whistle. But as it was, both Deepgut and Nightbane survived their early encounters against the Orc players, with Dozolir even managing to make something of a defensive move when a Greenskin Blitzer powered past him down the wing whilst carrying the ball.”

“Perhaps unsurprisingly though, it was at this stage of the game when the Orc’s sunk as low as you can go by forgetting to roll for their Rushing and subsequently scoring a Touchdown. An utterly despicable manoeuvre by the Greenskins’ coach in what was supposed to be a sociable, non-competitive exhibition match. Boo the Poked Eye!!”

A final look at the Rusty Buckets' Runner before the game's overly-excited crowd 'murdered' him

“Boo indeed, Thom. But things then went from bad to worse for the Rusty Buckets with Lotgran Whitfoot picking up the ball during the restart, and almost immediately being bundled into the baying crowd, courtesy of a shove from one of the Orc players.”

“Needless to say, the Dwarf Runner did not appear again for some considerable time, and when his battered body was recovered, it was clear the fans’ frenzied frustrations had physically taken their toll upon him. Still I hear that Whitfoot should be medically cleared in time for the Rusty Buckets’ second game next week.”

The Second-half starts with a number of Orcs getting beaten up near the line of scrimmage

“Plus, the Rusty Buckets currently have an eight Dwarf-strong roster, so were able to weather the loss somewhat leading into the second-half… And this was when the team’s universal Block skill really came to the fore, as Nightbane lead his club into a no-holds barred, toe-to-toe battle with the Poked Eye players.”

“Absolutely, Thom. Before you could say Old World Brutality, the Orc’s Big Un was down at the feet of the Dwarf Captain following a devastating ‘Pow!’. Then, one big boot from Naghag later, and an already semi-conscious prone Black Orc was heading back to the Locker Room, with the Poked Eye being down to just six players on the pitch."

With the Orc' Big Un injured, Throfog Anvildelver heads for a Dwarf Touchdown

"Luckily, the Referee didn’t see anything either, right Thom..? And Dwarf Lineman Throfog Anvildelver was able to squeeze through the resultant gap in the Poked Eye's defensive line to make an incredible run almost half the length of the pitch to the Orcs' End Zone.”

"Too right, Jim. Almost the entire Greenskin roster went down like so many skittles during Anvildelver's sensational scoring sprint, with many an Orc player suffering from either a fall or stun, courtesy of some rock solid Dwarf blocking."

"Well that sadly concludes this report covering the Rusty Buckets' opening game, which despite ending in a score draw was clearly a moral victory for the Dwarf players. Next time round we'll be covering all the action from the touring amateur club's second match, so please tune in for that..."

“Dwarfs Were One Of The First Races To Play Blood Bowl…”

“…And many Dwarf teams can trace their history to the early years of the game.”

"Howdy Blood Bowl fans, and welcome to an absolutely cram-packed broadcast of Wednesday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg, this is Hall of Famer Thom Grassyglade, and together we’ll be telling you all about the terrific news concerning Blood Bowl Sevens.”

“The big headline of the night is that the Rusty Buckets have signed no less than four more second edition Dwarf Linemen for their amateur roster. Durifol Pebblebelly, Herod Axebrow, Khourdroth Barreldigger and Throfog Anvildelver will each pocket no less than 70,000 copper pieces in wages, and have already started practicing with their new team just prior to the club’s recently announced tour of lowly Sarisbury Green.”

"Dwarfs tend to use a running game, grinding their opponents into the ground..."

“Absolutely, Jim. Each of the 28mm scale second-hand metal miniatures were initially (re)primed with a couple of coats of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna, so as to cover the models’ previous yellow and blue colour scheme. The players were then dry-brushed with “Vallejo” Gunmetal, before being treated to a combination of “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade and "The Army Painter" Strong Tone Quickshade.”

“Following on from this, the Dwarves’ shoes, sleeves and belts were layered with “Citadel” Abaddon Black, before their trousers and tunics received a coat of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna and (more) “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade. Lastly, with one notable exception, the Linemen’s gloves were subsequently coated with “Vallejo” Heavy Brown, before being shaded in (even more) “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade.”

"...As they go and working on the principle of high casualty rates opening up the field."

“And, as with all this astonishing quartet’s fellow players, I understand a dash or two of "Mig Productions" Extreme Rust Wash were also used on the figures’ spiked knee-caps, elbow-pads, and shoulder-pads, Thom..? These areas were later given a delicate dry-brush of “Vallejo” Gunmetal to add some additional highlights to the aged metal.”

“Guilty as charged, Jim. But let us not forget that despite the Rusty Buckets now having a roster large enough to populate the smaller-sized Sevens pitch, there is still a strong rumour that the side’s owner still has coin enough for a Blitzer, should such a tough, grizzled dwarf become available. Such a move would doubtless ensure one of this club’s Linemen would regrettably start their outing’s opening match on the bench. However, they’d still only be just one team-mate’s excruciating wound away from participating in the game.”

"And as we both know so well, Thom, Blood Bowl is just the sort of sport to produce a life-changing injury every time the ball is thrown. Sadly though, that brings this particular Blood Bowl Sevens programme to an end. But please do join us next time when we'll hopefully be following the Rusty Buckets on the road and giving their first few games running the pig’s bladder plenty of coverage…"

“The Weakness Of A Dwarf Runner…”

“…Is that they have lower armour compared to most of their team mates.”

"Greetings Blood Bowl fans, and welcome to yet another exciting edition of Friday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg and along with my pointy-eared co-commentator Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be bringing you all the latest facts concerning our favourite amateur incarnation of Fantasy Football known as Sevens.”

“Hot off the press is the confirmation that the Rusty Buckets have signed retired Kicker Lotgran Whitfoot as the burgeoning club’s sole Runner. The second edition Dwarf has been convinced to once again don his steel-capped boots for an impressive 85,000 copper pieces, and has already been seen sprinting around the team’s meagre-sized stadium.”

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - The Dwarf kicker's beard was painted using "Vallejo" Heavy Red & "Citadel" Nuln Oil

“Indeed he has Jim. The 28mm scale second-hand metal miniature was originally (re)primed with a couple of coats of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna, so as to mask the model’s previous yellow and blue colour scheme. The player was then dry-brushed with “Vallejo” Gunmetal, before being treated to a combination of “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade and "The Army Painter" Strong Tone Quickshade.”

“Next up, the Dwarf had his shoes, sleeves and belt layered with “Citadel” Abaddon Black, before his trousers and tunic received a coat of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna and (more) “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade. The so-called speedster’s gloves were subsequently coated with “Vallejo” Heavy Brown, before being shaded in (even more) “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade.”

"Games Workshop" WIPs - Three Dwarf Lineman at various stages of completion

“And, as with all Whifoot’s fellow players, I believe the odd spot of "Mig Productions" Extreme Rust Wash was also used on the figure’s spiked knee-caps, elbow-pads, and shoulder-pads, Thom..? These areas were later given a delicate dry-brush of “Vallejo” Gunmetal to add some additional highlights to the aged metal.”

“Totally true, Jim. Of course, the former Kicker turned Runner isn’t going to be the only new Dwarf joining the Rusty Buckets, as we know of at least one more Lineman due to join the team during the next few days. Indeed, rumour has it that at least three more players are expected to sign their lives away for a chance to play on the Astrogranite within the next week.”

"Terrific stuff, Thom, and doubtless this broadcast will give Blood Bowl fans plenty of coverage of these new additions just as soon as the ink has dried on their contracts. Disappointingly however, that brings this particular Blood Bowl Sevens special to an end. But please do join us again when we'll be taking a closer look at some of this club's other players..."

“Troll Slayers Aren’t Likely To Be Dodging Around…”

“…So you can concentrate on building them to hurt the other team.”

"Salutations fellow salivating Blood Bowl fans, and welcome to an action packed broadcast of Thursday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg and along with Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be bringing you the very latest news concerning the smaller-sized, much faster version of Blood Bowl called Sevens.”

"Straight off the bat there’s news that amateur club, the Rusty Buckets, have somehow scooped up retired Blitzer Naghag Nightbane. The second edition Dwarf has been lured back out from his latest quest to meet a glorious death for a jaw-dropping 95,000 copper pieces, and has already made the local newspaper’s front page donned in the team’s well-worn kit.”

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - The Dwarf was primed, dry-brushed and shaded before having his details picked out

“That’s correct Jim, this 28mm scale second-hand metal miniature was initially (re)primed with a layer or two of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna, so as to completely cover the sculpt’s previous yellow and blue colour scheme. The player was then dry-brushed with “Vallejo” Gunmetal, before being treated to a combination of “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade and "The Army Painter" Strong Tone Quickshade.”

“Following that, the grizzled veteran had his steel toe-capped boots, and belt ‘picked out’ with “Citadel” Abaddon Black, before his trousers and tunic received a coat of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna and (more) “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade. The Dwarf’s gloves were initially coated with “Vallejo” Heavy Brown, before being shaded in (even more) “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade.”

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - A Dwarf Blitzer and a pair of portly Blockers

“I believe some additional touches of "Mig Productions" Extreme Rust Wash were also used on the model’s spiked knee-caps, elbow-pads, shoulder-pads and knuckle-dusters, Thom..? Plus his beard and hair were treated to a mixture of “Vallejo” Heavy Orange and “Citadel” Reikland Fleshshade..?”

“Spot on, Jim. Interestingly, the Rusty Buckets are now not the only Dwarf team currently trying to recruit former professional Blood Bowl players either, following gold mine owner Bruldrin Bluebeard’s announcement to establish a new Sevens side known as the Bombardiers.

"Thanks Thom. I, for one, am looking forward to these two new clubs battling it out in some sort of future Dwarf Bowl. Sadly, that brings this particular Blood Bowl Sevens special to an end. But please do join us again next time when we'll once again be taking a closer look at some of this sport's other players..."

“As Linemen Go…”

“…Dwarfs have some of the most expensive ones in the game.”

"Felicitations Blood Bowl fans, and welcome to a special edition of Tuesday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg and along with Elven Hall of Famer Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be bringing you the very latest news concerning our favourite Fantasy Football game.”

"First up is the successful signing of Bodum Blackbeard by the amateur Sevens club, the Rusty Buckets. The second edition Dwarf Blocker Lineman has been bought out of retirement for an astonishing 70,000 copper pieces, and has already been pictured showing off his team’s colours for the local press.”

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - The Dwarf was primed, dry-brushed and shaded before having his details picked out

“Well Jim, this 28mm scale second-hand metal miniature was (re)primed with a coat of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna, so as to obscure the sculpt’s previous paint-job. The entire figure was then dry-brushed with “Vallejo” Gunmetal, before being treated to a mixture of “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade and "The Army Painter" Strong Tone Quickshade.”

“Next the Lineman had his boots, belt and beard ‘picked out’ with “Citadel” Abaddon Black. Whilst his trousers and tunic received a layer of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna and (more) “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade. The Dwarf’s gloves were initially coated with “Vallejo” Heavy Brown, before they too were shaded in “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade.”

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - A Human Catcher, Blitzer and Thrower

“I understand some additional touches of "Mig Productions" Extreme Rust Wash were also used on the player’s spiked knee-caps, elbow-pads, shoulder-pads and helmet, Thom..? These areas were later given a delicate dry-brush of “Vallejo” Gunmetal to add some additional highlights to the aged metal.”

“Quite right, Jim. Of course, the Rusty Buckets are still currently busy working on signing another seven Dwarfs to the team, and that’s not forget that the Human side, the Marauders, are also out there currently recruiting. Indeed, word has it that the plastic players are busy working on hiring a Catcher, Blitzer and Thrower as we speak.”

"Thanks Thom. That just about wraps up this Blood Bowl Sevens special. But please do join us again next time when we'll be taking a closer look at some of this sport's other players..."

“Blood Bowl Sevens Teams Are Drafted..."

A Dwarf Blitzer (09), Linesman (05) and bareheaded Blitzer (14)

"Greetings eager sports fans, and welcome to the latest edition of Sunday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg and along with my comrade-in-arms Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be bringing you all news concerning the latest developments for Blood Bowl Sevens.”

"The big news today is that the amateur game appears to have attracted the attention of an aspiring Dwarf team called the Rusty Buckets. Thom, those are some seriously old long-beards at no mistake. Do they really go as far back as the game’s classic second edition..?”

A Dwarf Kicker (01), Blitzer (10) and portly Blocker (15)

“That’s right, Jim. Remember the days of the World’s Edge Wanderers, Zhufbar Marktag, Durums Destroyers and the Dwarf Anvils..? Well, all eight of the players on this latest team’s roster stem from those heady days of single cast metal sculpts, courtesy of a much-appreciated gift from Iain White of “caveadsum1471” fame.”

“Why the club will even be re-employing an old Kicker model from the Dwarf Giants to use as a Runner for the modern-day rules. Sadly, there’s no sign of a glamorous Cheerleader or two, though Jim. But, to be honest, I doubt the Rusty Buckets would currently have the copper pieces to hire any.”

A Dwarf Blitzer (09), Linesman (07) and Linesman (05)

“So what’s the plan for these old, second-hand players then, Thom? Is their colourful yellow and blue attire going to survive the transition to the amateur leagues, or can we expect a completely new kit for these grizzled thirty-year plus veterans..?”

“Well time certainly isn’t going to be these guys’ friend, Jim, as they’re all due to be re-primed and given some particularly rusty-looking sportswear which better suits their club name. In addition, a further eight Dwarf players are impatiently ‘waiting in the wings’ to form either a second Old World Sevens side, or help bolster the Rusty Buckets’ roster to becoming a full-blown professional Blood Bowl team in the near future.”

"Thanks Thom. That just about concludes this particular Blood Bowl Sevens show. But please do join us again next time when we'll be taking a closer look at this club’s change in attire…”

“Welcome To Blood Bowl Sevens…”

“…The fast and furious game of fantasy football.”

"Hello sports fans, and welcome to a brand new edition of Monday Night Football. I'm Jim Maddenberg and along with my fellow co-commentator Thom Grassyglade, I’ll be bringing you all the latest news concerning the game’s most recent development known as Blood Bowl Sevens.”

"To begin with the amateur game seems to have already attracted the attention of a mysterious Human team, known simply as The Marauders. Thom, is this club associated with the much-missed Middenheim Marauders, or perhaps connected to the modern-day two-time Worlds Edge Super League Winners known as the Maulers..?”

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - The Human Lineman was layered, shaded and dry-brushed

“It wouldn’t appear so, Jim. Rather this team of out-of-production 28mm plastic Humans seems to have simply had their kit’s colour scheme inspired by a similarly aged metal boxed set from the early Nineties which was labelled The Marauders. For now all we do know is that the Sevens side’s first of five Linemen is ready for the pitch.”

“Costing 50,000 copper pieces this player was primed in a mixture of “Vallejo” Black Surface Primer and Gloss Black. He was then given a double coat of “Vallejo” Gunmetal, before being shaded with “Citadel” Nuln Oil and dry-brushed using (more) “Vallejo” Gunmetal.”

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - The Human Lineman's "Vallejo" Gold areas were layered with Heavy Sienna first

“I understand the Lineman’s boots, straps and gloves were treated to a combination of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna and “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade, Thom..? Followed by his hip cloth being pigmented with “Vallejo” White, Sun Yellow and a splash of “Citadel” Reikland Fleshshade.”

“That’s correct Jim. Finally, the Human player’s shoulder pads, belt buckle and helmet crest were given a coat of “Vallejo” Heavy Sienna and subsequently Gold, as well as plenty of “Citadel” Agrax Earthshade. As a last touch, his trousers and belt were tidied up using a little “Citadel” Abaddon Black, and his armour darkened right down with another application of Nuln Oil.”

"Thanks Thom. That just about concludes this Blood Bowl Sevens show. But please do join us again next time when we'll be taking a closer look at some of this team's other players..."

"Eyes On The Pies!"

"Wipe those greasy little fingers on your trousers..." 

"Greetings sports fans. I'm Jim Maddenberg, and welcome to another Mid-Week Football special. This time round we'll be taking a look at the latest club to put their name in the hat for the upcoming season, the Greenfield Grasshuggers, as well as catching up on all the news from the Doom Lords locker room too. But first my fellow presenter, Thom Grassyglade, has a tasty treat for you... Eh? Is that a pastry of some kind, Thom..!?!"

"Right you are Jim. This pastie was freshly baked by Bartweed Crumbleberry's missus just an hour ago, and is almost certain to end the Halfing's opening match inside one of their portly player's bellies rather than in their opponent's score zone. Indeed, it smells so good I'm not sure Head Coach Drago Foodcraver is going to be able to keep his hands off of his own team's game-ball before the starting whistle has even blown."

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - A Catcher, a Hopeful and a Halfling Hefty

"One of three plastic well-baked balls found within The Greenfield Grasshuggers boxed set, the tatty oggy was super-glued onto a 25mm circular base and primed using "Vallejo" Heavy Brown. It was then shaded using a little Strong Tone Quickshade by "The Army Painter" and dry-brushed with more "Vallejo" Heavy Brown."

"Fascinating stuff, Thom, and with such match benefits it's easy to see just how club owner Ricard Whalloper II has already announced the imminent signing of his side's first three players... Lumpin Hoop, Ernald Spiritburner and Jingo Merrychap. What more can you tell us about these Halfling Hopefuls, Thom?"

The Doom Lords WIPs - A Chosen Blocker and Beastman Runner

"Well its early days for the Landlord of the Tumble Down Dick's Coaching Inn yet, Jim, with all three participants still needing a considerable amount of work before they'll be match ready. For now however, there's the promise of a well-stocked food hamper for any halfling who survives a game, plus the rumour of a Treeman having been sighted at the Greenfield training ground..."

"Thanks Thom, that certainly sounds like some marvellous nosh will be on the table whenever the six-time Thimble Cup Winners take to the pitch. But before we wrap up there's just enough time to confirm that Harry the Idolator has stated that he still intends to bring at least one more Beastman Runner and a third Chosen Blocker to the Doom Lords within the next few days. Hopefully we'll be able to cover this story in further detail in our next broadcast."

(Lead) Mountain Musings - "Blood Bowl" June 2019

"Blood Bowl" WIPs - These Greenfield Grasshuggers have been assembled and primed

This month's themed attempt to desperately diminish my mountain of unpainted metal, plastic and resin models will see hopefully me progressing a number of "Games Workshop" plastic figures from their fantasy football game "Blood Bowl" range. Currently I'm working on a number of partially-painted Chaos Chosen players for the Doom Lords, but in addition to finishing some of these Beastmen off, I am also determined to pigment a number of figures from the newly-released Greenfield Grasshuggers Halfling Team.

Indeed, my aim is to actually try and complete a half-dozen miniatures from the two opposing clubs, so as to start a small-scale league which will ultimately feature representatives from the Champions Of Death, Reikland Reavers, Nurgle's Rotters and Gouged Eye. To begin with though, I have merely assembled and primed a pint-sized Hopeful, a Catcher and a Hefty from "one of the most esteemed teams in the game", with the aspiration that an additional three more Hopefuls will join my painting queue once the initial trio are completed. 

"Bandai" WIP - The 'Z-GOK' has been assembled and had its feet primed with "Vallejo" Turquoise

An element of this hobby which has never really captured my imagination before has to the science fiction media franchise known as Gundam, and its almost fanatical obsession with giant robots. As a result, no-one was arguably more surprised than myself when I walked out of the latest "MCM London Comic Con" carrying a 1/144th scale "HG Universal Century" model kit of the MSM-07 'Z-GOK' amphibious mobile suit.

This Principality of Zeon mass produced robot by "Bandai" will potentially be one of a 'handful' of miniatures I would like to build and paint over the next few months, in the hope that I can eventually field a couple of small forces to battle across a 15mm scale tabletop. Astonishingly, considering the sheer number of components which the figure comes in, I have already assembled the brute and super-glued its feet on a plastic 120mm oval stand produced by "Games Workshop".

"Toon Realms" WIPs - Grunt the Boar, the Frog Prince and Grimm the Wolf have been under-coated

However, my problems have actually only really now started, as the 'Z-GOK' is clearly multi-pose toy with numerous points of articulation. So I am clearly going to have to permanently fix its joints together whilst I apply a brush to its numerous sub-assemblies; two things I have very little experience of at this present moment in time. Plus, it'll be interesting to see how its pre-coloured plastic will take to "Vallejo" and "Citadel" paints... 

Lastly, I have managed to prime a few more "Toon Realms" models by "Lucid Eye Publications" with the emphasis being on some of the range's large(ish) animal-based characters. Grunt the Boar, the Frog Prince and Grimm the Wolf are absolutely packed full of detail, with the formidably-sized Canis lupus potentially being the first of a Warg pack scouring Middle Earth.