Going Rogue! The story of Rogue Hobbies

This is the story of how I decided to go Rogue!
Bringing the 'draw my life' videos back to life with a 'paint my life' video where I tell you all about how I ended up here on youtube!
From my humble beginnings in art school, my first time in a hobby shop to my 7 year career at Games Workshop and how I realised it was time to move on...
This took me three attempts to film and I get a little emotional so please forgive me if things get a bit wobbly :')
Music used for the end credits - Without End
you can listen to all the music used in this video here! • Rogue Radio - Channel ...
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For business enquiries please contact me at [e-mail]
Patreon - / roguehobbies
Merch - roguehobbies.com/
KZbin - / @roguehobbies

[@Miscast]

I can't believe this little Presentaur collab happened by randomly bumping into you in Nottingham. You've heard it a million times but you're my all time favourite painter and you painting my weird miniature garbage is a dream come true. Thanks for sharing your journey, so much adventure ahead!

[@roguehobbies]

sometimes lil coincidences make a big difference :) You're a real inspiration, thanks so much

[@euansmith3699]

Presentaur is a cool mini. 😍

[@angelx9724]

A fantastic paint job on a fantastic mini.

[@tuskarthetauren]

@@euansmith3699 I agree!

[@mopanda81]

like #666

[@tristanlee8495]

“Bionicle I think changed my life and set me up to be the person I am today.” Never have I related to another human being more than in this moment.

[@BW-CZ]

That, all the goof, and "The little goblin human I was always meant to be" were so relatable it caused my brain to temporarily short circuit

[@georgesutherlandhoward4417]

Holy shit I just started this video and my interest has SPIKED

[@mrbushi1062]

The original back on Mata nui was my childhood so good

[@calsonic2272]

kindred Kohli Heads unite..

[@dup3]

Facts

[@michaelcaricoo]

The whole "My dream job was hurting me" just broke my cold bitter heart

[@thegingerspacemarine]

Right!? That absolutely gutted me to hear. Louise is an absolute treasure

[@esaedvik]

It really does break your brain too.

[@S.A.S.H.]

The anxiety of "imposter syndrome" still haunts me at 64 years old and after 35 years in my chosen profession. I surely do empathize.

[@moodyminis9896]

Loved this. "The little goblin human I was meant to be" can we have a inspirational quote shirt with this please? 😂

[@roguehobbies]

Inspirational goblin merch drop soon

[@Sparticus595]

From all the fellow gerblins in the audience, good luck and go you! You got this.

[@Fallen_BDPS]

I hope you’re not joking about the merch!

[@frederikschulze8218]

It's like Stranger Things Vecna but less genocidal supervillan and more nice creative open minded person

[@danf98989]

MEEERRRRRRRRCH

[@LayneisDaBigGay]

As someone who also grew up not falling within what would be considered “girly” it’s incredibly impactful to watch this video. You’re an inspiration for women in the hobby!

[@motherreaper7287]

Seconded!

[@montgomeryharr30]

Knowing you did the illustrations for goofy blood bowl makes so much sense! As a kid I fell in love with old school blood bowl for just how goofy it was and seeing it come back in a modern goofy way after taking it self quite seriously for a few editions was really delightful!

[@NoUseForAName06]

As somebody who went into the videogame industry out of passaion, I definitely resonated with what you are saying. I left the industry getting laid off (which was the best thing that could happen to me) and started taking my mental health more seriously. Today I work a well paid "boring" job in the IT department of a bank and am in a much better place mentally. I enjoy the luxury of being able to engage with my hobby on my own terms now.

[@johnpole3012]

Was not expecting to tear up at this, but the last couple minutes got me. Thanks for sharing, Louise

[@roguehobbies]

It's okay I cried too ❤

[@ElOvnen]

​@@roguehobbies Yeah, that bit at the end was a bit of an emotional sucker punch - but in a good way! As someone who also isn't the best at being kind to myself, it was just a really nice thing to hear. Thank you!

[@danicalifornia6]

This spoke to my 6 year old little girl self that wore a Spiderman costume 24/7 and forever ran around with any long object claiming to be Aragorn😂 Thank you so much for all the content you're putting out and I know I can speak for the entire community when we say we're so proud and excited for what you bring to this wacky little hobby world! We've got your back, always! ❤

[@gamerman782]

Spidergorn?

[@danicalifornia6]

@@gamerman782 new cosplay idea: unlocked o.o 😂

[@bawdydog176]

Watched "Infinite Play-do Marines" and subbed. Came here and watched this second. I'd say your future self is doing you proud.

[@ElliotCrary]

The Bionicle-to-Warhammer pipeline is real.

[@duncanmacgregor6384]

Thank you for this video, and for being on the women in wargaming panel at Salute on Saturday. Seeing my niece growing up and the hobbies and obsessions she has chosen to embrace has really reinforced how important representation is, whether that in having a YT creator you can look to or even just having a friend who you can look to and can encourage you. Keep on painting weird little goblins, because you never know who'll look at that and be inspired to do it as well.

[@shannybug666]

Hi Louise! Been painting and participating in Warhammer for nearly 30 years now. In the last year, you taught me so many painting techniques I didn't know, and made them easy. Thank you. And now I spread what I've learned from you to my hobby community!

[@moldiworp9143]

"Unhinged little goblin that I am". As are we all. We's is gobbos. No shame in that. Lovely heartfelt video.

[@DmoTraz]

The little goblin usage in the personal story animations is *chefs kiss*

[@harryatkins]

I totally understand imposter syndrome and I know part of it (for me at least) is struggling to accept praise and compliments and take them seriously. But despite that, I think it's still important to help each other out and give boosts of positivity where it's due. Super happy that you've made these bold steps and looking forward to following your happy rogue adventure!

[@Tykepaints]

God I can identify with your words - been a graphic designer for over 10 years and feel like the creativity is being sucked out of the job by advancements in automation and the commodifying of what was once a craft. So eager to find my own ‘Rogue’ and a new outlet to scratch the creative itch, so hearing you feeling the same doubts and doing it anyway is a huge help, thanks Louise 😊

[@fletchergb7436]

I hadn't really noticed the whole "only hands" thing until someone commented how it's probably for easier international dubbing. Probably didn't notice because it's the same format used everywhere now. Sure, it makes perfect business sense, but it just feels sterile compared to what came before. Sorta like the masses of cookiecutter restoration videos that started showing up after that trend took off.

[@lostsanityreturned]

Yeah, I spent years of my life getting qualified as a web developer... then with the advent of the more complex/accessible frameworks my option was... do work that killed my soul and had none of what I enjoyed, or accept I had wasted (partially) 4 years of education

[@totalwardad]

Nearly 50k subscribers in 2 weeks shows how many people love you and your painting. Can't wait to see more and hope you can have a reunion with Peachy over on The Painting Phase.

[@khromas5392]

YES! That would be amazing!

[@David_Tomlinson]

The Hobby Set Up is lush. Never limit yourself, let the Goblin inside... FREEEE!! 🎨🍄

[@alecimorgan]

I never comment on videos but I just had to after watching this. That was a very generous insight into your journey Louise. I’m sure a lot of us can really understand and empathise with some of your struggles, especially imposter syndrome and the idea of being “less than” in some way. Thank you for your vulnerability, embrace the inner goblin! We are never better than when we are being authentically ourselves 💚.

[@roguehobbies]

💚💚💚

[@Sarah-James]

It's great to hear people speak honestly about their struggles. It certainly helps others to talk about these things too. Thanks so much for that and for sharing your infectious enthusiasm ❤

[@ryanbarry5320]

From a random voice in the universe… make peace with the fact that you are gifted. It is ok to be you. Just watching this quick little paint job… you are light years beyond most people. :)

[@yumanoid5753]

Those orks and grots look awesome in a bright and colourful yet classic way.

[@cehovski3690]

Kudos for being honest with yourself and having the guts to take a step forward in your life. Looking forward to watching you paint wacky things. Have fun!

[@editor2766]

When I put this on, my kitten jumped on my lap and stayed there to watch the whole video. Apparently he, as a little goblin creature, recognises a kindred spirit!

[@Timbucktoo32]

A painting tutorial in the background while you're telling a personal story was a very nice touch

[@Thameno]

It is now more than 20 years ago that I took a job in a local Games Workshop Store, and since I was also trained in architectural modeling as a draftsman, I was able to build quite good ruins for the game tables there relatively quickly, which were always very well received, the years at Games Workshop were really great and brought me a lot of joy, at some point, however, I really had to earn money, and so I changed jobs and can now look back on a lucrative career, the hobby, however, has never let me go, I am now for more than 30 years in this hobby and will continue to try it in the next few years to paint my minis great. I am sure that follow your Channel to stay get in touch with the Community.

[@slackeratlarge575]

There is nothing like “Promoting” yourself to a Customer. speaking from personal experience, savor the freedom and smell the roses. Your awesome 😎

[@darthmalignous6586]

I just had a pretty bad night at work, nearly having another anxiety attack and your closing comments made me cry...like, in a good way. I currently struggle with allowing myself to fail without freaking out about it. I've always described myself as a perfectionist who isn't good at anything. You may be able to see the potential slurry of negative adjectives this can create. Anyone struggling with confidence or anxiety can take heart in your message.

[@GravesAlec]

Louise, we met at Warhammer Fest some years ago, I was really inspired by your psychedelic gloomspite and somewhat rebellious take on painting schemes and style. I studied the photos I took for some time after, great job. Well done for taking the leap, I am now able to put a name to the face. I wish you all the success your talents are worth. 101k subscribers..amazing!

[@christianhoffmann1965]

The Warhammer Alliance programme is amazing! I ran a Warhammer alliance club at the previous school I taught at for about 4 years. The tiny alliance team (I think it's literally 2 people) couldn't have been more awesome or helpful to work with - plus the amount of resources they provided us with (models/paints/tools/etc) was mad!

[@CmdrPinkiePie]

Be kind to yourself, Louise! I understand what it’s like to have imposter syndrome, but I hope someday you can truly , fully appreciate your talent and the positive impact you have on many of us in the community, free of the shackles of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. ❤

[@merlyn921]

That message to yourself at the end was truly touching. I hope it does ring true for you when watching it back in the years to come.

[@boboayame2065]

If that was 2017 I was the first person interviewed for that illustrator job. It got a bit weird when I showed them a self published comic and they said you couldn't work for anyone else and I was like obviously I'm not going to do 40k digiramas for anyone else but why can't I draw unrelated things for myself? I knew it was done at that point and I already had an interview for a Master's course at Glasgow that week which I took but I often wondered what it would have been like. You were a hundred times better for the job and I'm glad you realised your worth which is a big problem with GW, there's always been a lot of very weird submission to the company which they exploit. At that time a schoolfriend was the manager of the Stirling store and though it had been his whole life it just chewed him up and spat him out.

[@MrTeal888]

Thank you for taking the time to have a picture with me at Warhammer Fest this year.

[@davedogge2280]

This was like a letter to your future self and short story of the past.

[@RobespierreHadItComing]

That little mini reads as the embodiment of the determination to be happy. I hope to see Rogue for a long time to come.

[@markbauby7442]

Between you, Broadsword Gaming, MidWinter Minis, Miniac, and Ninjon I appreciate all of you guys opening up about personal stuff in your videos. I think its really highlighting the other side to this hobby...we really are just a bunch of sensitive nerds who just enjoy painting, enjoy talking about painting, and enjoy seeing other painters success. I think MANY of us can understand the imposter syndrome feeling, its not just good artists who go through it, I was a infantryman in the Army and I had it and hell I still have it today and im just a boring old data analyst now. I enjoyed your video and I am looking forward to more of them!

[@JessWLStuart]

Congratulations on finding yourself and happiness! Go get 'em!

[@pyromaster55]

I am so excited to see where this channel and project goes. I don't know you, but you seem so full of joy and enthusiasm and love for the hobby we love, and such a positive impact on the hobby and those around you. Keep being a fantastic, weird little goblin, we need more of your joy and positivity in the world!

[@escherbacon]

I'm very happy for you - and for the hobby community - that your discovered your love for teaching others how to paint. Nice work on the fantastic mini!

[@ThePeckishFox]

suuuper happy that youre happy and comfortable again. The worst is being restricted and being forced into a mold that is 100% not you is so painful!

[@phoenixheart79]

I completely understand loving where you work, not the Company itself but rather the company - the people. I've recently been made redundant and the hardest part is that, after 25 years, I've left behind a lot of people who I care for. I'm glad you've found what works for you, teaching.

[@draeci]

Thank you for sharing yourself with us. This is wonderfully edited, and I hope over time the anxiety and pressure lowers for you even more. ❤

[@kaytigraham2413]

That was a really beautiful message and the mini turned out wonderfully ❤

[@micahroe7303]

Louise, I’ve been struggling with ADD and it affecting my hobby and personal life for as long as I can remember. Like I have 17 different building/painting projects in different phases of completion on my desk right now. I’ve always been hard on myself and never one for much self love or care, and the beginning of your open letter made me cry. Thank you I needed to hear that ❤

[@TheMinidow]

We've always loved that signature bright and colourful style of yours, ever since those wip threads way back when

[@daydam]

This video is so wholesome. Thanks for sharing your story, and hope this new adventure brings you tons of happiness! Also, go Bionicle!

[@CadianSergeantSteel]

That was delightful, wholesome, and really appreciate your courage in putting yourself out there. Hope this is an awesome journey for you that brings you lots of joy!

[@GinjaBadger]

Myself and a friend met you a few years ago at the UK Games Expo when GW released Contrast Paints. He is a very big fan of your art style. We had a lovely chat then proceeded to spent hours playing around with Contrast Paints, we even went off and bought our own brushes to use.

[@IanMacLean-Artist]

Wonderfully presented and infinitely relatable. I've been "trying" to hack it as a creative professional for over two decades and I still feel like I don't belong. There are definitely times I start to feel some confidence in my work, but then a new dream client comes along and I feel the old doubts worm their way back in. I did a few freelance contracts for GW last year and the imposter syndrome hit me HARD. I burned out trying to make art that I felt was "on par" with what I thought GW artwork should be, when it clearly was, or they wouldn't have reached out to me. I took some time between contracts to recoup and reignite that creative spark, just doing pieces for myself. Your work and your gleeful love of colour really inspires me, and helped get me back on track. I'm looking forward to seeing what you share here!

[@serarthurdayne9490]

You have such a natural ability as a presenter. It’s a real talent. You’re obviously creative as well. This could be a great channel and you can make it whatever you want. Can’t wait to see what you do with it.

[@GarthIvers]

Really can’t agree with this more. All the content I watched in Warhammer + with Louise always felt so authentic and personable. This whole video feels like that turned up to 11! ❤❤❤

[@timothyferguson4248]

This is such an inspiring video! I didn't expect to cry during the 'message to yourself' segment.

[@manuelprsnl]

Thanks for opening up! I'm another graphic designer who worked in the miniatures sector (I left and went on to design in other fields). I fully empathize with the whole impostor syndrome story and with the "if they hire you it's because they make more money than you off of your work" angle. I hope you do great!

[@KerstinMamma]

You just brought back years worth of memories connected to Bionicles. I had totally forgotten about them.

[@TheRiceHill]

Found parts of this very relatable! It must have taken you a lot of guts to share your experiences with us, I went through a bit of a dream job turned nightmare situation when I got a job at Games Workshop, and unfortunately it didn't work out, but I still love what they create and the community around it. you're a fantastic artist and presenter and I can't wait to see what else comes to this channel and from a fellow Scot, thank you for being one of our hobby heroes!

[@lastsurvivingemothefox9797]

You having your own channel allows a lot more of your personality shine through! Best luck moving forward!

[@blazingknight.]

So great to see you enjoying what you do! All the best wishes, and such a cool paint job on the Presentaur, looks great!❤

[@gunslinger1911a1]

Sometimes the best thing to do is lower your shoulders and push forward. You were my favorite Master Class presenter on Warhammer +. You'll remain such here. You're awesome and I love the fact that you basically paint in the old style. Vibrant, bold colors and in weird wonderful fashions. Rock on crazy Goblin woman.

[@carlstanford7607]

Love the editing and style of the videos. Wonderful story. Thanks for sharing it. We all want to be happy little goblins at heart

[@lanepaintsminis]

I'm so glad to see that you're doing this for yourself, and I hope you continue to do so for as long as you wish to. Your painting style and your adoration of bright colors and joy in a space that is otherwise occupied by the grimmest of dark has really inspired me to ignore the trend and push toward painting things that make me happy too. Thank you for all that you do.

[@gavindavis3640]

Your energy mixed with your honesty is so inspiring and makes this community even *more* wholesome. I can't wait to see a decade's worth of your videos. 10/10 subscribed. Best of luck! I think you already have such a community here that cares about you.

[@SimeonCogswell]

This video was beautiful, it's so hard to do what's best for ourselves sometimes. So good luck! I'm excited to follow along with you on this journey

[@cordial001]

So glad you branched out on your own. The hobby is richer for it. Thank you :)

[@genghisgahan9623]

I found myself unconsciously smiling so many times while watching this video. A lovely tale of creativity, modesty and very relatable. I sincerely hope this is a huge success for you- I cant wait to see more of your work!!

[@danf98989]

After moving, I had no friends. I eventually started warhammer. Boom, got all my close friends I have now. This hobby pretty much saved my life tbh. What you said was very validating!

[@Kilroyan]

thank you for sharing your story. I love your painting style, it is so fresh and unique! wishing you nothing but the best, and can't wait for your future endeavours :)

[@FathersFigures]

Louise, your passion for painting and teaching is so evident and you do so with so much personality while still remaining humble. I hope that this new venture is everything you’ve hoped for because you truly deserve it. I’ve spent many afternoons with my son (4) watching your content on WH+, and we are so excited to see where this journey takes you! Stay true to yourself and it will all work out!

[@erikdavis3584]

"Unhinged goblin human" is exactly what we need more of! Your energy is adorable and endearing and I'm glad to be a follower.

[@Berserkerworks]

Thank you for telling us your story! I'm really excited you are here on YT now and can share the things you want to share. Also getting to watch you paint one of Trent's bootlegs is a real joy :D

[@conorlowe5514]

Amazing video, it's really enjoyable to just sit and watch you paint and chat. Hope everything with Rogue Hobbies goes well for you and the message to yourself was amazing!

[@parapotato]

I love you story about finding Warhammer. You've got such a cool and wholesome vibe. I'm so looking forward to where this channel is going.

[@neilburns3121]

Remember seeing those Orkz in /wip/ back as they were being painted, you've done so much since then! Glad to see you're still in the hobby, lovely work on Presentaur

[@Normandy42]

Been following you for years and so happy you’ve gone out on your own! You are so talented and deserve to share that gift with the world without any limitations!

[@samueltronea3888]

Thank you for being an inspiration to us all! Hearing your stories adds something special to your videos!

[@dobbear]

It's crazy how GW limit their staff to go out there and interact with the community, either by showing their passion behind a hobby they enjoy.

[@fredrik241]

YEah I don't understand this one. Whats the thinking behind a decision like that? Have they had staff being 'too honest'?

[@danielk3832]

You have the charisma, authenticity and energy to make a huge impact on this adventure. Imposter syndrome is a thing for all of us painters who want to improve it seems, but most of us that are dedicated to it are better then we think. I am very glad to be here at the start and look forward to watching you and the community grow together.

[@frankc9164]

Super glad you’re here. I’ve loved your work for a long time and hearing your story just makes me admire you even more! As an anxiety ridden individual myself, thank you !

[@JMlebeau]

As an ex GW manager back during the rough 2010-2015 time, I kind of understand from a different perspective what you mean about the love for everything the community and people, and hobby stands for, but stuck, limited and also (adding my main feeling), like there is a huge pull to behave a certain way and feeling like you didn't have a voice (unless it completely agreed with everything all of the time). I look back on everything I did with rose tinted glasses on purpose though, as I now use a lot of skills I gained in numerous other ways. Creating this channel, and doing this shows that you are doing the same (much quicker than I did too.... So kudos). It takes a very specific kind of person to live and breathe, for decades, a role in GW. Especially HQ. I love that certain people can do it, and it obviously works. But I'm extremely glad for you , that you did what you did and this wonderful creation shows you did the right thing. All the best.

[@BigMekDanskull]

As someone who sufferes from confidence issues & anxiety when it comes to new experiences & new people I can relate to some of what you spoke about here. I used to have to force myself into GW stores when they were busy & not just walk past & pretend I was going into Boots all along 😅 I'm super happy you made the leap, it sounds like you knew it's what you needed to do, but that doesn't lessen how difficult a descision can feel before you make it. With regards to my own issues, I feel like expressing myself in the hobby, and sharing that on my own little channel helped somewhat, but my current job really restricts my free time so I don't get to do it as much as I'd like. It's fantastic to see someone like yourself take the leap into full time content creation, until I grow the confidence to do something like that myself, I'm more than happy to live the dream vicariously through you & others like you!

[@Jon-ey4el]

It's nice seeing people out of GW and being themselves. Legendary artist Adrian Smith even has a youtube channel. Maybe you could paint the new Tyranids in his famous Behemoth scheme as a collab.

[@bobbycondojoyson]

hell yeah louise, awesome to see you smashing it in your new endeavours with such variety, quality and personal content. your message to (near) future self was so touching and something others can get a lot out of too ;)

[@HarinD66]

I always enjoy your painting and the vibrancy you bring to Orks. I am so excited to see what this channel helps you accomplish! Keep being awesome!

[@GTScaleModelling]

Haha! I remember that skeleton outfit! Really stoked to see you branching out on your own, under your own rules. You’ll smash this and I look forward to seeing how this journey goes for you. And I am glad that I had some part in it way back at the start! Doors always open for a cuppa and a catch up when your next at home. For everyone else who wonders, I’m the Gavin she refers too 😂

[@mo_dakka]

10:30 ✊zog yeah. Even "privileged" or "cool" jobs deserve fair compensation and a good work environment. When we startin' da revolushun?

[@Dante15]

This is rapidly going to become one of my favorite channels! I always enjoyed your instagram posts and was really excited when I saw you were going Rogue - your creativity is unbelievable and it really shows in your style of painting. Wish you the best on this new endeavor!

[@amoryburgess]

Thanks for your contribution to Foregeworld! That’s the place to thrive!

[@Krefey]

Love seeing a fellow neurodivergent doing something exciting that makes them happy :) Looking forward to your future content!

[@shorelessskies]

18:30 I'm not crying you're crying shut up

[@roguehobbies]

You're right I am crying 🥲

[@NeonPinkApokalypse-nw6gv]

embrace the inner goblin! enjoy exploring all the funky miniatures and madness there is out there!

[@Tardigradico]

It's really inspiring seeing you so determined in pursuing what you really fills your heart. It makes me to want to sit down and paint as soon as possible ❤

[@MiniGamerDusty]

Great figure and best wishes for the future! I can't wait to see what you do next!

[@HipposHobbyHours]

And now I am sitting here with my cold drink all warmed up, what an amazing story, at some parts, it felt like you were talking about my life, the childhood, the uni stuff, and then your message to yourself came, this is the most wholesome sweetest hobby content and I am 100% here for it! The very best of luck with Rogue Hobbies, I already look forward to the next video!

[@Fallen_BDPS]

Such a great video! I had no idea you’ve accomplished so much! Very inspiring, glad to be along for the journey.

[@joshiechoi]

You’ve been knocking it out of the park with every video, Louise! Been loving each one. Thank you for opening up with this video. I hope creating this new channel has been therapeutic for you more than anything else!

[@Eruidraith]

I didn’t know you’d left until like, a day ago, and was very surprised! I’m happy to hear you’ll be doing your own thing and I’ll keep adding your vids to me painting ambiance rotation and relaxing vibes playlists. Godspeed!

[@heinzschmitt9661]

Watching you paint is like therapy.

[@fdssdfful]

I adore the energy you bring to your painting tutorials and your channel has quickly become on of my favourites for painting tutorails. Thank you for sharing your journey to here and the very relatable feelings especially the love of bionicle

[@Greensleeve11]

I don't really know what you went through at GW. I'm only tangentially part of the hobby, didn't know of you until today. Had to look up the "only hands" thing (idiotic decision from GW). But what you talk about regarding what sounds like burnout to me is really relatable. I'm currently at a job that's slowly grinding me to dust. But because I love the people I'm there with, because I love some parts of the job, because I have part of my self-worth tied up in the quality of my work, I haven't quit. That feeling of being led around my the nose into walls you saw coming miles away by corporate leadership who doesn't care about you, and still staying because you've got such lovely people all around you... It's a relatable experience. I hope you're doing better, and I hope this channel will let you do what you love and interact with people you love.