2025 Secret Santa

[twopounder]

I can't believe we're already approaching the end of the year. Soon it will be Halloween here in the states and the leaves are falling off the trees (even if just because of the storms down here in Florida).

 

We've had a long running tradition here in the Dark Angel forums, of firing off the Secret Santa as the year closes.

 

What is the Secret Santa? Volunteers are put into a list that is shaken (never stirred) and randomly assigned another volunteer to paint a single infantry/cavalry model for. Its great to see what members cook up for their gifts each year. It can also be a great painting challenge to match the chapter colors of the participants (many people have custom successor chapters).

 

I wanted to see how many people are interested this year and get an early start on the process so people have as much time to ship as possible.

 

The rules are pretty straightforward:

 

• You'll be given a forum name and shipping details for one other volunteer.
• Secretly build and paint a single infantry/cavalry model that matches the army of your recipient
• Complete and ship the model by December 1st (or as close as possible). The target is to get the package on their doorstep before December 25th.
• PM me the tracking number (I'll forward this to the recipient so they can make sure to get the package when it arrives)
• Remember to take lots of pictures before sending. Feel free to post the pictures after the recipient has had a chance to open their box.

 

If you're interested, PM me these details:

 

• Valid shipping information
• Marine chapters you play/collect
• Whether you're willing to ship internationally (I've had to pay $70 USD to ship before, so just be aware that it can be very expensive).
• Would you be willing to do 2 recipients in an emergency or if needed?

 

Deadline for signup is Friday, October 31st so I can send out the PMs for Santas

 

Quick FAQ

Q: Do I have to run out and buy models?

A: NOPE! In fact, the purpose is to use bits and spare parts you already have to kit bash a single infantry/cavalry model. Think of it as a way to find a home for that extra primaris without a squad. 

Q: Who can participate?

A: We generally keep it to Dark Angels and their successors, but I'm open to any marine chapter with the understanding that legion/chapter specific modeling may not be possible. Unfortunately, its too hard to match up people with non-marine armies. All in these forums will have marine models though.

Q: Do I have to ship internationally?

A: Only if you volunteer to. International shipping can be expensive, so you'll only get paired with someone you're comfortable shipping to.

Q: Is there specific a points/money value?

A: Nope - its up to you to build what you'd like, but keep in mind that we can't promise you'll get something of the same value in return. 

Q: How well does the model need to be painted?

A: Just do your best. Everyone is at a different skill level and participation is the most important part of the event.

Q: Can we do something other than infantry or cavalry?

A: The spirit of the event is to use spare bits and be creative. Infantry models tend to be the most plentiful (though bike hoarders like me have had a bunch of spare bike frames in the past). Its unlikely someone will have a spare leviathan dreadnought , and we don't want to spiral too far out of control with someone shipping $100+ Forge World models. Infantry/Cavalry keeps it simple and everyone on the same playing field. That said, feel free to embellish the base if you'd like: heads, desiccated bodies, tyranid skulls - have fun with the build.

Q: What if I can't complete the gift?

A: Emergencies do happen, but we would ask you do your best. If you're unable to complete, then let me know ASAP so we can get another Santa lined up with time to complete a second model.