[Josh Mueller]

I bought an animated bust a year ago (you might have seen it at Spirit) planning to use it on a grave like the others. Initially I pictured using it placed on top of a column grave but as I've done a few of those like that already I thought I'd get adventurous and try a Leota like grave. There were a few points I was concerned with it but I think it came out pretty good,

 

[matrixmom]

Wow looks like the real thing. Outstanding.

 

[Tannasgach]

Amazing! Great job!

 

[SavageEye]

Beautiful!!

 

[bobzilla]

WOWZA!!!
Pretty dang great!

 

[DaveintheGrave]

Fantastic job on that! Looks awesome.

 

[scary dad]

Awesome job!!!!

 

[Neuf350Z]

This looks fantastic! Question...how do you get in there to change the batteries?

 

[Josh Mueller]

I should have shown the back to explain that. The back has a removable door get in there when I need to. I also added a long hole from there to the base to add the wire for the step pad. I wish they had put the speaker pointed towards her mouth rather then on the back because in order for it to be loud I have to leave the door ajar. I did make the cuts all at a steep angle just in case of rain so none will seep in.

 

[Zombiegrl]

Great job! Looks fabulous!

 

[Moxiemoth]

Absolutely stunning prop, I love it so much!

 

[The Halloween Lady]

Wow you really did a stellar job!

 

[cricket515]

So impressive! I love it!

 

[Mr Grimsley]

This is absolutely fabulous! Josh, would you be willing to describe your painting process? It's just stunning!

 

[Josh Mueller]

Sure it basically a base paint for both. Whatever color you use for the stone, I now use a shade or two lighter for the second coat, as it make it look a lot more realistic. For a second coat I use natural sponges and blot it on a paper towel until it's light then use it. then a much darker color for the staining and that I do a dry rub with brushes. The plaque I used a coppery color as the base then sponged on a green patina making it heavier in areas where rain would have ran down more (looking at photos of this very thing helps.) then I added a turquoise paint with a fine tip brush to finish the detail.

 

[Mr Grimsley]

Sure it basically a base paint for both. Whatever color you use for the stone, I now use a shade or two lighter for the second coat, as it make it look a lot more realistic. For a second coat I use natural sponges and blot it on a paper towel until it's light then use it. then a much darker color for the staining and that I do a dry rub with brushes. The plaque I used a coppery color as the base then sponged on a green patina making it heavier in areas where rain would have ran down more (looking at photos of this very thing helps.) then I added a turquoise paint with a fine tip brush to finish the detail.

Much appreciated! Again, fabulous job!

 

[FascinatinatedFright]

That's fantastic! I don't much care for the bust herself (her voice is a bit grating), but what you've done with her is absolutely amazing. Could you please take a video of the whole thing in action?

 

[Zombiegrl]

yes, I second a video....