Getting an Education in Modeling...

[dauntless]

I have been spending some quality time going through some master modeler pieces- like Shep Paine and Bob Letterman online, as well as taking visual notes. I recently picked up a large set of The Weather Magazine(s) from a flea market and have also been reading through these as I have become an admirer of Mig's since meeting him at AMPS around 6 years ago or so. Pairing these with the work of all the excellent modelers here and in other forums I frequent, I have been trying to redefine my philosophy and how I go about what I do in the Sheep's Pen. Maybe it's all the time doing research as a field biologist and now going on 20 years teaching- but I really enjoy delving in and learning as much as I can.

What I have found more than anything is that I really have some ADD (not official) when it comes to modeling. I don't have any specific genre I associate myself with anymore- although I do try to stick with 1/48 aircraft- but also enjoy 1/35 armor (WWII to start, but modern more so than ever now), autos, and figures when one suits my fancy. I also tend to get tunnel vision when I am in a build- always focusing on what's next and the finish line...but have been realizing that when I consider one "finished", I look back and think about what I missed or could've done better.

With Mig's magazines, there are things I don't ever even think on when I build- like zenithial lighting, or how filters can be used effectively. Reading these techniques now, I really want to start playing around and modifying my approach. My fear is I will get stuck or bogged down and lose interest- hence the ADD reference. I live in a pretty awesome place- but one that is a pretty vast wasteland when it comes to things like model shows and clubs. The nearest one is in Albany and a good distance away- so I am pretty much solo- so entering a show is not even on my radar...plus the desire to do so is not really there. Other than sharing with all of you, and/or the occasional model I build for someone else, I am really the only one who sees my work. Nevertheless, the drive to improve is still there- I just need to slow it down and intensify my focus I guess.

I've picked up a few of Mig's AMMO line to try out, and plan on reading and researching more- but was just bouncing my thoughts off on you all. I plan on putting this into my blog as well but I was just wondering if anyone else shares my scatteredness...

On a side note-- these Oilbrusher products of AMMO's sort of bewilder me...I mean it kind of seems like buying the 50/50 antifreeze....sure it's ready to go- but aren't you just paying more for a thinned down product? I suppose it works for those who don't know much about oils- but I just don't know...

[BUCKY]

I think you have a healthy approach to the hobby. I've been at it since 1963, and I learn something new and/or different nearly every day! Research is always a plus, no matter what type of model you build. I, too have books and magazines on hand. I've never thrown away any reference material, It's one reason my hobby room is so cramped! LOL I scan all sorts of forums for ideas and suggestions, too.

To me, entering contests is not all that important, but I do enjoy going to them to see what's up with fellow modelers. I think a nuilder should strive to satisfy himself first, and if anybody else is happy with your work, then that's a bonus! HAHA

As far as products go, I'm constantly in an experimental stage with my stuff. Trial and error is a big part of the method to my madness!!HAHAHAHAHA

Allow me to recommend the following:


I have met Virgil, and I've seen his work in person. It's remarkable!

The main thing is to have fun with these scale beasts, and like a friend of mine always said, "Never stop thinking!"

[JCON]

I find myself doing the same thing, something will light my fire and I'm off to research as much as I can and then down the rabbit trail I go... that's how I got into helicopters and now ships and Soviet Aerosans are calling... oh wait... so are autos and an occasional wingy!!! Like you we really don't have shows around for entering unless we want to cross the state to Seattle or Portland down south... not really my desire!!! I do love my once a month get together to build with the guys though!!! Looking forward to where you go with this new direction my friend!!! All the best, Joe

[BUCKY]

The show scene for me around here is either Birmingham, or Atlanta, or places even farther out. Birmingham is about a three hour drive!

[dauntless]

Ouch! There is one in Plattsburgh later this month I am thinking of going to but not entering

So in the spirit of learning and my newly inspired desire to improve, I am asking advice on this build. As much as I thought I had the cabin area all aligned on my Rhino, when I went to add the top, I ran into this along the bottom edge--

And this gap where there isn't supposed to be one....



I am up for suggestions....was thinking of trimming the front plate so it fits the gap.... :idonno

[BUCKY]

There are different approaches to this problem. If the parts are flexible enough, clamping may close the gap. If not, and the gap is not very large, then ya might use some putty, or filler. If the gap is too large for that, then sheet or strip styrene may be the answer. I would explore all those possibilities before I started trimming parts. If you go too far with trimming, you'll end up filling up a gap, anyway! The main thing here is not to rush it. Give it some thought before trying something out. Hope this helps!

[JCON]

I agree with Bucky!!!