I began collecting Mattel's Major Matt Mason figures some 25 years after my last memory of playing with one of the greatest action figures in history. For the bulk of those who read this I don't need to explain that feeling. Like many fledgling collectors I found out how expensive mint figures were, so the first few figures I purchased were far less than mint. I began to nose around the internet a little and found a collector's email list. I first learned of figure restorations on that list and soon after purchased a repair manual and VHS from Tom Wentland.
Anyway to make an already long story short I have now been restoring figures for about 3 years. I have now developed my own method that I feel accomplishes many of the same things as Tom's but it requires far less cutting into the figure. I does require some patience though.
This method requires cutting at only the 3 seams (per side) that enclose the plastic wire "stays". Wire insertion is accomplished by passing a brass tube through the body via the seams cut in the arms and legs. The wire is then inserted down the tube and the tube is pulled out leaving the new wire. The Boots are then reattached and the wires are pulled tight, cut and tucked away. The seams are glued and the figure is "masked" and painted.
Figure is "unmasked" and then details are painted and sealed. Sound easy??? Well it's certainly not brain surgery but it does take a little practice, but nothing that taking your time won't teach you! This method or not much of a variation will work on many other "bendie" figures.
I'm always available to answer any questions that you may have, just send me an email and I'll get back to you ASAP! |
