Popular Articles

You've built a rocket and flown it several times and you are starting to notice some wear and tear on both your rocket and launch equipment. How do you keep your rocket gear looking good while performing at a high level and staying safe?

Gundam Model Basics

Welcome to the fun world of Gunpla. Gunpla is short for "Gundam Plastic Models" (In Japan, it's just a fad if it doesn't have some weird word to describe it's fanbase). Gundam models are perfect kits...

Filling Model Kit Seams

Let's face it. No one, and I mean no one, enjoys filling seams. It is easily the worst part of building model kits. But, it's gotta be done. Nothing ruins a model faster than a poorly filled seam. Today, I will share some pointers with you...

Model Rocket Range Boxes

You've built your model rocket and have it all ready for its maiden flight. You've watched the weather report and have a good day for launch. In order to launch a rocket, you need to gather your range box. A range box is a fancy term for...

Aftermarket Model Kit Parts

Previously, I have talked about ways to save money by using alternatives to aftermarket parts for your model kit builds. Today I will discuss the various types of aftermarket sets out there and point out their strengths and...

Building A Model Rocket

Today, I will show you how to build a model rocket. I will be using Estes Mini Max for this demonstration. This is a basic rocket that will provide a good first step and teach you all the skills necessary to complete your very own rocket.

Model Rocket Recovery

You've just spent the weekend building your new model rocket and it's time to fly. The last thing you want to do is have all that time and hard work come crashing into the ground. So, let's talk about rocket recovery.

F-100 Model Kit Review

The Trumpeter 1:32nd F-100D is the first production styrene model kit of this aircraft in the bigger scale. The kit does come with a hefty price tag, selling for $150.00, though it can be found in the $120 range from...

Model Kit Weathering Guide

Weathering can be as subtle as the discoloration from a super-heated exhaust pipe on a motorcycle or as prominent as faded paint on a plane. A good weathering job will make your model kit stand out and jump off the shelf.

Assembling Model Kits

So you have purchased your first model kit and are now ready to assemble it. Just remember, model building is a learned skill and takes many hours of practice. If you make a mistake on your first effort, do not criticize yourself, but go on to the next one. With practice, model building can be fun and a great stress-reliever.

Assembling the Model Kit

Look around your home for tools that will be useful in your new hobby. If you have to purchase a few, they are very inexpensive. Some basic tools you will need are sandpaper, liquid cement, paint brushes, hobby knife, masking tape, clamps, and modeling paints. Put these tools in a special place and organize them so you can reach them easily when needed.

Ask around your neighborhood or work place to find out if there are any experienced modelers. If so, they can probably give you a lot of tips and save you from many headaches.

Once you start your new project, choose an area where you can leave your model kit set up until it is complete. A garage or basement would be the best place to work. You should work in a place with very good lighting, and you will also need a wide work table. Place newspaper or a drop cloth under your model to protect the table from any spilled glue or paint.

You should read the model instructions very carefully before you begin. Take out all parts and check them against the manufacturer's list. There is nothing worse than reading the last instruction only to discover the part is missing. Once you know all the parts are accounted for, you can now begin your new hobby. Proceed with patience!