Crystals Small Set (3D-Printed)

Crystal clusters for bases

The sharp edges of a crystal can do a base a great service. They break up a monotonous area of stone, give a scene a supernatural touch and at the same time offer a color accent that draws the eye to the figure. That is exactly what this small set is for. It holds clusters grown by three-dimensional printing, so they have sharp points and clean faces of a kind that casting in a mold produces only with difficulty.

They find their use mainly in fantasy and science fiction subjects, where they form veins in the cracks of rocks, focal points of magical energy or the remains of alien rock. Nothing prevents a more everyday use, though, for instance as ice shards in a winter scene.

Working with the material

Before painting, rinse the part and let it dry thoroughly, so as to get rid of the print resin residue. Cyanoacrylate glue applied in a small drop to the base of the cluster holds best; use epoxy where you need longer to adjust the position.

The color effect is easier to achieve than it seems. Take a light base coat over the crystal, apply translucent glazes onto it from the top down, and finally stipple the point gently with an almost white shade. That creates the impression that the material glows from within. Work with glazes rewards the patient, since every further coat deepens the richness of the shade. Complete the surroundings of the cluster with fine grit and sand, so that the transition into the terrain is not abrupt. It will also serve anywhere you need to fill an empty space behind a figure without disturbing the composition.