hi, i like to collect scale models especially warships, subs, any watercrafts… as i’ve said, i like to collect them but i’ve never build or painted them myself. it is because i lack the talent in painting. i know how to build them, i have assembles scale models a couple of times and it turned out ok. but after that, when it comes to painting, thats when the model becomes really ugly.
so thats why i always hire someone to build and paint my models for me. and i think i’m just in it for the collection.
I agree with captain caveman. build 'em the way you want to, but just know that everyone here has gone through the “calvin and hobbes” stage where they do everything in their power and it stull turns out to be crud. You may not know it, but your painting skills may be fine, just ask the guys/girls (they said that my model was great when i thought it was [censored]). someone told me that the builder has the (dis)advantage of knowing all the faults of a particular model… you just can’t be too harsh on yourself.
Start with something simple, like a model with only one or two major colors (desert camo tanks are great for this… so aresome WWII planes - just paint them olive drab!). then start painting in details when you’re happy with the results (like painting that .50 Cal, or a tail light) it’ll turn out fine soon enough.
Oh, and by the way, I know someone who has someone else build his kits for him too! He buys all these great wooden ships complete with rigging and god-knows-what, but he gets someone else to build 'em (who carves in detail and stuff… great work…)
Welcome to the Forums, and keep building (if not painting). don’t be afraid to ask these guys for help. we’ll be glad to assist. [:D]
-V
When I look back at my first attempts to paint from years back-- I am amazed at how far I have come. You have to practice before you get good at something…don’t shortchange yourself
When I started in this hobby, I went through a stage when I painted anything anyhow I wanted, then went on buying kits whose plastic was the same clour as the real thing. So I did a lot of ships and Navy aircraft. It took me to join a club to realise that things could be done properly and that it was not that difficult after all. The people here are very good a giving tips and advice, so, if you do not mind getting some constructive criticism, you’ll surprise yourself… And, by the way, welcome to THE club.
Do whatcha like, I always say!
If you have seven or eight hundred dollars, check out Tamiya’s prebuilt 1/350 Yamato and Bismark models (well, I reckon it’s free to check 'em out!). I’ve seen 'em, and they’re very nice!
Welcome to the forum, ninen. If painting is something that you want to learn, here’s something that may put it into perspective for you.
When you think about communicating with people, realize that you are performing a difficult, abstract task. Written words are really nothing more than recognizable shapes, spoken words are nothing more than recognizable sounds. Yet we learn to communicate our ideas with these tools. I feel that, if we can learn to do this, nothing is beyond our learning ability. It only takes desire and commitment of time to learn.
If you really want to learn how to paint something with which you are satisfied, put in the time, and the results will follow. If we can learn to communicate our ideas, we can learn whatever we want. Desire + Experience = Results.
Hello ninen, welcome to the forum. I’m a collector myself but I collect old unbuilt kits. You should try to build some kits. I hate to think you are missing out on the thrill of finishing a model of your own! We will be here to help when you decide to give it a whirl! [;)]
Welcome to FSM ninen. As with anything else … practice goes a long way.
Hopefully some of the membership here can inspire you to attempt to revisit the painting side of the hobby. But if not … just enjoy.
Whatever you do with your models, is your business. All we care about is that you like models as we do. So, Welcome to FSM. We hope that you will stick around and enjoy.
Welcome. When you decide to take the next step in building, this is the place to be. You can get help, hints and encouragement form many of our members.
Hi ninen, and welcome. If painting is too much of a chore, then don’t!!! Just enjoy that part of the hobby that gives you the greatest satisfaction. Glad to have you here.
Don’t be too hard on yourself. A little practice and patience goes a long way. You have definately found the best place to get some help if you need it!
I echo all that has been said here. Its the passion for the hobby that counts. All that matters is that you enjoy what youre doing. And yes, Practice! Practice! Practice! I once fouled up an FA-18 right at the finishing touches: The clear coat. But you learn from your mistakes. Enjoy the forums!
