Wednesday 27 February 2013

Caption Competition

Competition now closed, thank you!
Winners will be announced at 20:00 on 03/03/13... ooooooooooooooh!

Okay, okay... so no videos today. But d'you want to win... a THING*?

Then all you need to do is drop a comment with a caption for this photo! It can be a conversation between the two girls, a random statement, whatever you like.

Plum is on the left. Elin is on the right. 

Best caption will be chosen by myself and the lovely Fiiiiil this Saturday evening (2nd of March), possibly with the aid of Plink, Melchie and any other Makies who are wandering in the general area. Entries need to be posted on the BLOG by 20:00 GMT so's we can have a good read and decide.

Get creative!

*the THING will likely be something for your doll, either an item of clothing or a fun accessory. Please state in the comments if you're a Makie or a Blythe collector, so's I can choose/make your thing... and of course, leave a bit of time for me to get the thing made and posted!




Tuesday 26 February 2013

Moar vids?! Shirley not!

Oh yes indeedly!

New Blythe video tutorials, hoorah! Today we're rambling about how to swap out eye chips, remove lashes and prepare your Blythe for the first bit of her makeover.

Hope you enjoy...  :)

   

There are a couple more videos; you can find them on the You Tube (or wait for me to post 'em here tomorrow). As always, drop a comment if something isn't clear or you want to know more.

Enjoy!

Monday 25 February 2013

Hoorah!

Well, the evil exam is OVER... Not that I think I did terribly well and I'll be resitting it, but at least I don't have to think about that until the 'official' fail is in.

Spent this evening sorting out number 5's chips. Who knows, maybe there'll be another video tomorrow?

Saturday 23 February 2013

Expectations

Put the books down and amuse you? Would love nothing more than to do that, but scary exam(TM) is on Monday!

See you when it's over.



Friday 22 February 2013

Yay, good post day!

Today in the post there was a...

Pretty dress.
Good Post Day


Stripy jumper.



Good Post Day


Selection of customising things.


Good Post Day


Yay for nice post days!

Sunday 17 February 2013

The MORA experiment



Heat-Resistant Properties of Makie Parts and Joints
Professor Plink*, Dr Melchett, Dr Duckie
Welsh Institute for Makie Sciences, South Wales, UK

*corresponding author, tweet @ProfPlink

Abstract
It has been hypothesised that the exposure of Makie parts to heat could lead to catastrophic shrinkage and subsequent joint malfunction. In this paper, we demonstrate that not only do individual parts have excellent heat-resistant properties when subjected to temperatures up to 100 degrees centigrade for extended periods of time, but also that jointed extremities retain function and structural integrity following such treatment. 

Introduction
There has been extensive speculation during the quest for colourification of Makie skin as to whether the Makie components are adversely affected by the process of dye application, particularly as it relates to temperature. Widespread speculation amongst the community has held that there is a risk of 'shrinkage' of pieces in proportion to one another, thus leading to joint laxity and loss of stability in the Makie. 

Melchie
Dr Melchett demonstrating Makie Flexibility and Stability.
In this paper, we set out to demonstrate once and for all whether application of heat via an aqueous medium led to any evidence of joint or part a) destruction b) shrinkage. We use a variety of Makie parts in this process, including the unique MORA part: Melchie's Old Right Arm. 

We have elected to take a 'destruction testing' route, subjecting the Makie components to temperatures far in excess of those used in the dyeing experiments performed thus far, for a time period beyond those which have been used. Essentially, we wanted to see what these pieces could take. 

About the MORA
Melchie's Old Right Arm was subject to a minor manufacturing flaw, and has a defect in the lip of the shoulder joint. It was kindly replaced by MakieLab approximately two months after Melchett was printed and has been kept out of light, excessive heat and dust since. The MORA provides an advantage over the standard 'Bag Of Bits' used in Makie experimentation as it has both joint components in their fixed state, thus offering change to study articulation, posing and attachment to the standard Makie Model. 

Method
Makie bits (MakieLab UK) were selected from a standard 'Bag of Bits'. Four calves, four forearms, two back plates and the MORA were selected for use in the study. The back plates were excluded from final analysis as they had already taken a trip through a domestic dishwasher. 

Experimenting with Makiebits
Dr Melchie demonstrating the MORA
A stainless steel saucepan (Homebase, UK) was selected and filled with cold tap water, which was measured at a temperature of 17 degrees centigrade. Makie parts including the MORA were added, a lid placed on and the water brought to the boil, attaining a temperature of 99 degrees centigrade by the Welsh Institute's entirely faulty and inaccurate meat thermometer. 

Experimenting with Makiebits
Hubble Bubble
Once a rolling boil was established, a timer was set for 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes. At each of these time points, one forearm and one calf piece were removed. Back plates were removed at 60 and 120 minutes. The MORA remained in the boiling water for the entire 120 minutes. As pieces were removed, they were labelled with their batch number and total time of immersion (in minutes).

Experimenting with Makiebits
Marking the bits. Backplates were excluded from analysis.
After removal, the pieces were allowed to drain on kitchen towel and completely cool to room temperature before any manipulation or assessment was tested. 

Experimenting with Makiebits
Macrocomparison.
Assessment was carried out subjectively by a trained Makie Observer (Dr Duckie) and objectively using weight and balance testing. 
Experimenting with Makiebits
Back to the lab for closer assessment. 

Results
Macroscopic appearance of the finished pieces can be seen below. There was no variation in size between batch 1 (30 minute time point) and batch 4 parts (120 minute time ponit). There was no variation in size between parts from batch 4 and an un-boiled Makie calf/forearm belonging to Prof Plink. 


Experimenting with Makiebits
Calf bits. Note: there is no colour difference between the batches to the naked eye.
From L to R: 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes.

Experimenting with Makiebits
Forearm bits. Again, no colour difference to the naked eye.
From L to R: 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes.

Pieces from batches 1 and 4 (30 and 120 minute time points) were selected for application of Melchie's Left Hand or Plink's Left Foot, depending on whether they were a calf or forearm piece. Fit and flexibility were compared to the originating Makie. In each case, there was found to be no laxity of the joint nor any increase to a level of unwanted flexibility. There was no significant difference between the 30 minute and 120 minute time point in perceived level of attachment or laxity. Fit remained excellent throughout. 

The MORA was separately assessed for fit, flexibility and strength by Dr Melchett. 

There was found to be tight fit at the shoulder and at the wrist as in the existing Makie arm. Elbow flexibility was preserved, with comparable range of movement to the existing Makie arm. There was no increased laxity of the elbow joint evident. The elbow joint was able to take and hold a variety of flexion and extension positions (including hyperextension), with comparable stability to the existing Makie arm. There was minimal laxity of the forearm on the arm at the elbow, with a 'sideways' movement of the arm comparable to (but not in excess of) the existing Makie arm. Range of movement at the shoulder and wrist was identical to the existing Makie arm, with the proviso that the original flaw in the MORA component meant it fell off at extremes of internal rotation... which is why it was replaced in the first place. 


Experimenting with Makiebits
Shoulder fit, grip hand attaches nicely. 

Experimenting with Makiebits
Assessing movement at the shoulder.
The MORA was also assessed in its ability to support weights. Results demonstrated comparable strength to the existing Makie arm of our test subject at the AAA and AA battery level. 

Experimenting with Makiebits
No sagging here. Keep it up, Dr Melchie! 

Conclusions
Our experiments have demonstrated that at a temperature in excess of that thought to be tolerated by Makie components, for a length of time that some would call 'excessive', we cannot confidently demonstrate any loss of function in or degredation of Makie parts. There is no evidence of shrinkage; parts boiled for up to two hours still integrate perfectly with a non-boiled Makie with good holding of shape, structure and flexibility. This provides excellent evidence that a Makie could come through a domestic dyeing process at a lower heat for a lesser time unscathed. 

Similarly, our experiments with the MORA have provided evidence that there is no immediate damage caused to the 'non-detachable' elbow joint by exposure to temperature and heat for far in excess of those used in the dyeing process. It is probable that our findings can be extended to the other 'non-detachable' joint, the knee, although further experimentation on this precise point would be desirable. 

It must be mentioned, however, that these experiments do not account for potential hastening of loss of function over time. Future experiments involving the MORA component will allow for assessment of this, and will be reported at a later date. 

Although our experiments have obvious limitations, we feel we can confidently predict that there will be limited damage to Makies from subjecting them to dye processes, although such procedures are obviously taken at the Makie Wrangler's risk.

Experimenting with Makiebits
Shrinkage? What shrinkage!

TL;DR: I boiled bits for 2 hours. The arm still worked fine and fitted perfectly onto Melchie. There was no shrinkage evident and the joints at shoulder, elbow and wrist remained tight and able to hold a pose against resistance). I don't know if the boiling will lead to longer term problems; have to have a look at that in 6 months time, but I'm leaving the boiled arm on Melchie for a bit to see what happens. 

I don't think there's going to be a problem with home-dyeing Makies, especially as you'll be using lower temps and shorter times. 



Friday 15 February 2013

I'm a film star!

Some people on the Makie forum said a video of the customisation process would be useful... so here y'go!

This is just disassembly, we'll go through chip swapping, sanding and carving and anything else people would find useful... drop a comment if you want to see it.

Wednesday 13 February 2013

Number 5

Someone told me that the Blythes have a habit of multiplying when you're not looking. I didn't believe them.
Number 5
FBL face mould?
Eyes are purple, light bluey green, pink and... erm... brownish.
This is Number 5. She's been sold as a 'factory' girl, but she's probably from a fakie batch. Her hair isn't too bad quality, the body is alright and I'm looking forwards to getting my screwdriver on her... I've got plans for her already!

Tuesday 12 February 2013

Furniture with benefits

In tidying up the tip which I laughingly call a study, I came across a box which had previously held Green and Black miniature chocolate bars... unfortunately the contents are long-gone, but Plink had a very good idea for a bit of recycling!

Bookshelf!
Yes, the 'table' is a Hotel Chocolat tin.
I'm not a chocoholic, I just appear to be difficult to buy Christmas presents for!

Aaah, the perfect excuse to buy some more!

Sunday 3 February 2013

Elin Modification Step 4

Aaand we're nearly there.
Customising
Yes, you're getting your body back. 
After letting the face-up set, it was time for hair. I must admit, it was the hair that started this whole process off. I'd happened upon a totally gorgeous re-root from the talented Piparrot on the Blythe Kingdom forums and just had to have it.
Customising
This is where we were headed from the start!
I'm not really what you'd call a sugary sweet princess... but after drooling over the divine Juliet, there was most absolutely a hole in my life the shape of a mohair girl.
Customising
Er... not really your style, dearie. 
Unfortunately, attaching a re-root is not the most dignified process in the world.
Customising
S&M, Blythe Style
But it was absolutely and completely worth it!
Movember
Before... 

Elin
...and after!
(And OH, the glittery lids!)
Elin

I'm beyond amazed with what I've managed to achieve, especially as the work on her this week was punctuated by the Boyfriend being rather unwell and frantic revision for my big exam at the end of the month. I will say that working on a real Blythe (even an SBL!) is much easier than a factory. The component quality is much higher, the eye chips are easier to remove and the mechanism seems a bit more sturdy.
Elin

I had a bit of a wander around evilBay yesterday... and my next project might just've fallen into my shopping cart. Watch this space, big plans for this one!

Saturday 2 February 2013

Elin Modification Step 3

Hooray, the bits are done!

I did a sneaky gaze lift whilst you weren't looking. I've left her un-boggled, because I prefer a bit of eyelid rather than the STARING GAZE of a boggled Blythe.

We can now choose some pretty ribbons and beads for our pull strings
Customising
Green to open, pink to close.
and click everything back together!
Customising
This is the first and last time I've purchased fake eyelashes!

I'm very pleased with her so far... and just wait until you see the hair I've got lined up for her!

Customising
Yes yes. You'll get your body back soon... 

Friday 1 February 2013

Elin Modification Step 2

Once our happy heroine was in bits, it was time to start the sanding...

Customising
Just sanded off the existing make-up here, nothing else done. 
And the carving...

Customising
SHOCKING philtrum of doom. Required mega sanding. 
And then more sanding. And more carving. And more sanding... repeat ad nauseam for about 24 hours!

Once we were sanded and carved, we started applying the faceup...
Customising
I use real make-up for the lips and blush; find the colours are better.
Eye-makeup is blended black and grey chalk pastel, with layers of MSC UV Cut.

...and sticking in some new chips!

So far, so good.
Here you can see the finished carving and the chips.
I love painting chips!!
Next time, we'll be reassembling, woo!