How do I make bases for models?

I want to know how to make bases for models from scratch, especially for models that are suspended in the air (for insects, birds, etc in flight)

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

I tried making a base of rocks from styrofoam and a support rod from dowel wood, but it tipped over when I put the model on it. Then I tried using epoxy putty but the same thing happened

Anyone know of any tutorials, or who can offer advice?

It sounds like you tried good methods Maybe these bases were too light weight? For Heavier models you usually will need heavy or bigger base.
If you need translucent elements you can try casting them from product called Crystal Clear.

Ana wrote:

It sounds like you tried good methods Maybe these bases were too light weight? For Heavier models you usually will need heavy or bigger base.
If you need translucent elements you can try casting them from product called Crystal Clear.

Thanks a bunch I discoved a product called "Liquid Gravity" which might be useful for weighting bases.

[You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

I would very much like to learn also

Many of my poor , standing critters have to carry the pteranodons and such

Sometimes I use a little glass, but it does look like...a glass with a model on

Here is a great tutorial.
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

ReinbowSchleich wrote:

Here is a great tutorial.
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

Thanks a bunch :)

Arrrh ! I can`t see it 

Today i discover for my bases "Flexplast" a soft and shapeable white Material easy to paint  

widukind wrote:

Today i discover for my bases "Flexplast" a soft and shapeable white Material easy to paint  

Now i need a little bit talent but i only need easy bases    

I've spent ages looking for clear plastic rods for mounting models, but they seem to be very hard to find. Games Workshop has some nice clear plastic rod and base systems for flying models, though:
[You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]

If you prefer building your own I suggest Apoxie Sculpt for the base itself. It's pretty heavy, even when dry. My beloved Tamiya Velociraptors have nice bases, but they're made from lightweight plastic which means that once you add any weight to the model, the whole thing tips over. A glob of apoxie under the base is great for adding weight and stability.

I, too, recommend epoxy for building bases; it is easy to texture and reasonably heavy in itself. Furthermore, it can be easily made heavier yet by concealing a coated piece of lead (one gets these from fabric & sewing stores - they're meant for discreetly weighting curtains for a better drape) or just plain pebbles in the putty before it sets.

As for the acrylic rods, I have a plastic factory outlet store in my town who sell clear acrylic rods (and tubes - cheaper and stronger than solid rod in larger circumferences) by the meter. I popped there to enquire about their pricing recently, and got this:

A meter of clear acrylic rod with a circumference of 0,5cm: 6,77€
With a circumference of 0,8cm: 10,66€
With a circumference of 1,2cm: 19,26€.

It isn't dirt cheap, but it is a great deal cheaper than the ready-cut rods sold at hobby stores etc. If anyone wants to order from them through me, I'd be more than happy to oblige - just shoot me a PM. They have everything from 3mm up, I think. From 1cm upwards it may be a better idea to go for clear, rigid acrylic tubing instead of solid rod, though, as it is a great deal cheaper. They do also sell flat plexiglass in different colours (also transparent) and depths, if one wants to make a clear base out of that.