Popular Articles
Model Rocket Maintenance
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.
Finding The Model Kit That Is Right For You
Model kits can be purchased in hobby shops, toy stores, big box stores, and even supermarkets. If you are a serious collector, you can often find rare and valuable static models at auctions, though this can sometimes be an expensive endeavor. Another great place to find models is at yard sales. Quite often the avid collector can find long-forgotten relics this way.
Sometimes you can come across a great bargain as well. It all comes down to doing your research into what models are valuable and what the going price for them is. Another place to find model cars, trucks, planes, radio controlled models, and more is at pawn shops. Quite often modellers and hobbyists will try to pawn or sell parts of their collections to pawn shops and you can sometimes get lucky and find some models for a good deal. Beware, however, that you might overpay at these locations so again, it's very important to know what makes a particular model valuable or not.
Model kits come in various skill levels, and the level is usually displayed on the box. With each level, the steps for assembling and detailing the models becomes more complicated. If you are a beginner (adult or child), you will start with level number one. These kits usually do not need glue or paint, and they also help teach children how to follow instructions. This is very important: "Always read the instructions."
If you are a beginner, choose the simple kits for your first two or three projects. Once you have a kit, find a quiet place to build the model. Get your tools prepared and you are ready to begin your new hobby. Always finish the kit. If you make mistakes, you can correct them on the next one. Just have fun with your model building.
There are many groups on the web interested in the hobby you have chosen. Maybe they can answer some questions you have or share some important information that may help you in the future with your hobby.