If you, like so many avid miniature builder enthusiasts, are continuously hearing the words flocking or static grass flying around then you will know that it is an essential component for making your miniature worlds come to life. But too often these terms are loosely used interchangeably, and while they are similar they are not the same and are used for different aesthetics.
When it comes to creating a scene whether it be a miniature war world base that you intend to fill with landscape and terrain, characters, or other vegetative dimensions, you always need to create a quality foundation, and this is where flocking comes into play. If you are looking to take your hobby to the next level and elevate your scenery and miniature worlds then grass flock is the solution you have been waiting for. We take a look at the differences and why it is so easily mistaken for other products, how best to use it, which option for application is the best, and ultimately the top choice to get you started.
What is grass flock?
First things first, to understand what you are using. Grass flock for modeling is a material of sorts comprised of many small fiber particles that are deposited onto and adhered to a surface through a process known as flocking. In the world of miniatures this is more than often green in colors and various hues and used to cover surfaces of terrain and landscapes to increase the overall quality and aesthetic of an item, and its value, but also offer friction for slip or grip to surfaces as they become more realistic looking.
When it comes to dioramas this grassy effect is highly sought-after and brings your design and the characters to life. While its main objective is decorative, it certainly does not lack textural efficacy.
So, how do you apply the grass flock?
Choosing an applicator tool can be overwhelming if you don’t consider all the factors in play which, with this curated list of tips to keep in mind when shopping for a grass applicator tool, you can be sure you are making a well-informed decision and purchase.
· Scale of the project – The size of the applicator can quickly be determined by the size of the project and the area you intend to cover in flock. Smaller projects are easy to work on using a hand held grass applicator, whereas larger scale models more than likely will require a more robust tool that holds more grass or perhaps consider a grass flock applicator box in the future.
· How much are you willing to spend – The last thing you want is a tool that doesn’t last the length of your project or is lack luster in quality ruining your design altogether. Be sure you are choosing a higher-quality tool, you may have to pay more, but the results will be well worth it.
· Power Source – You have the options of both battery-powered or mains-powered, each with their pros and cons which you’ll need to weigh up against your project.
· Length of the grass fibers – Depending on the area to be covered you need a variety of grass lengths but also a larger or smaller mesh for even grass dispersion.
Which tool is the best for the job?
The right tool for the job will make your life a whole lot easier and your project will have a higher quality finish. It is recommended to purchase from reliable and reputable suppliers and while the initial investment may seem more than you were considering, can you put a price on quality? We have tried and tested many versions available on the market, but none have surpassed the article we manufacture: Static Grass Applicator, and for good reason.
At Green Stuff World we pride ourselves in offering and using the best products on the market so you can create your dream miniature world with the most realistic appeal and highest quality finish.
What is a static grass applicator tool?
This tool does what it says, it applies static grass to surfaces of dioramas or model-building. By creating a static electric charge, which in turn causes the grass fibers to stand upright as they would in real life, it, therefore, mimics the natural aesthetic you hope to achieve for your grassy areas and surfaces.
Static grass applicator tools are user-friendly making them great for all skill levels, and with practice and time it will become like second nature and you won’t want to create a project without one. Long gone are the days when the grass had to be glued down flat (no thank you).
Can I use different mesh sizes with my Static Grass Applicator tool head?
Yes, in many cases, you can use different mesh sizes with your Static Grass Applicator tool head. The mesh size you choose will depend on the leght of static grass fibers you are using and the effect you want to achieve in your scenery or model. Different mesh sizes allow for varying degrees of coverage and texture. GSW Static Grass Applicators come with interchangeable tool heads or attachments, allowing you to easily switch between different mesh sizes to suit your needs.
At the end of the day using the best applicator for the task will give your project the realism you want to achieve whether you are a beginner or a professional, and with the highest quality finish. Win-win.
