I'm looking for an Okinawa base for a current build anyone know where I can get one?

Well a sandy type of base to sit my tank on once it's done is what I meant to say not as in an actual base.

Hi Jay,

I don't know of any manufacturer that makes one. What about making your own? Should be fairly easy. And cheaper.

Steve

Jay, scratchbuild one as suggested. There are lots and lots of tips on this site.

Well I'm new to all this diorama and have never made one before can anyone let me know what materials I use and how to make one using the basics please?

Hi, Jay. I finished a base for a Tarawa Sherman a few months ago. I used plaster mixed with some fine sand and cheap craft paint. All of these can be purchased at Lowes or a similar store for not much money. I applied the mixture to a cheap wooden base from AC Moore. After it sets up, I paint it and add some pigments. I stain the wooden base after I'm finished using water-based stain that you can get at Walmart for a few dollars. It can be brushed on easily and doesn't smell. You can vary the color by adding multiple coats and can even add a coat or two of Future to give it a slight shine.

Here is a picture of how it turned out:

Thanks a lot micheal I'll see what I can do when that time arrives.

something i have used in the past as a base is a wooden picture frame. depending on the style of the frame, you can get a nice elegant type of look to it. ive used a picture frame for a couple reasons. number 1- you dont have to make the base. basically pre-made and cheap if its purchased at a dollar store. number 2- after you take out the glass and back, you just replace the backing of it with balsa or just remove the "kickstand" if there is one. when using a picture frame, the inner portion is recessed. so, you can build up or down into the recess. obviously, your limited if you recess down. but works good for the most part.

other option is, art stores have pre-made wood that is used for painting artsy stuff, plaques, or whatever its original intention was for. these can also be purchased at walmart, home depot, lowes as well, if i remember correctly. those types of items give a look such as the tarawa base shown above. downside is, you cant recess down without doing some woodworking