Just a quick update with my progress -
http://twitpic.com/5nhlbx - thightplates with hammertone spray paint, prior to weathering + detailing. There are imperfections here and there but, eh, detailing will distract from those.
http://twitpic.com/5nkzr5 - the detailing in question will be these simplified spine bones made from cast resin + ribs made from thin cut craft foam. This was my first attempt at mouldmaking and resin casting and it turned out very well! *grin*
Though I shoudl have ventilated the area a bit. I feel like I have the dumb.