Also, I'd like to give you guys this link from 3D total.
It's a story about how joan of arc was modelled. You can skip the character modeling if you'd like, but do dig into how the artist modelled the accessories and clothing.  Even though it was modelled in Max, the concept of how it's done is still very useful!!!
http://67.15.36.49/ffa/tutorials/max/joanofarc/joanmenu.asp

Hi, my namez: "NO, Bad Kitteh, NO!"  Whaz yurs?
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