Hi - The last time I built a model was probably around 60 years ago. I see that it has evolved from a kid’s pass time to an OCD problem. Sounds like fun!
I spend 25 hours a week up close and personal with an SR-71A, an F-117, a Normandy Invasion C-47, oh, and the Spruce Goose. Not to mention a Norden Bomb Sight here and there (and a Sperry S-1), and thousands of other artifacts. Those are among the highlights at the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum in Oregon where I volunteer. If that wasn’t enough temptation, I also find myself surrounded by ‘model’ guys. The strain is becoming too much.
Why the trepidation? Because I know how I get with hobbies that have depth, and I realize I’m now sending greetings to a bunch of enablers. I am very much afraid of what is to come…
Welcome to the forums. Never let trepidation prevent you from getting in over your head. Enjoy the ride.
Welcome! It’s a great time in our hobby. 3d printing is changing the game.
BTW I used to work with one of the Evergreen board members before he took on that role - Patrick Cox. Smart guy.
keavdog ~ Given the last time I did this was in the 60s I’m just a bit out of touch. I’m familiar with 3D printing, but not as it applies to modeliing. Can you point me at a site that could educate me on that subject? In the mean time I’ll consult AI.
BTW, Patrick is currently chairmen of our board.
I don’t do 3d printing (yet)… But the companies out there make beautifully detailed 3d prints and more and more stuff is available.
Here’s an example - I ordered this top fuel dragster engine a bit ago.

And this awesome chain gun for my Apache when I get to it

Welcome! No need for trepidation. You will find a group of amazing people willing to enable, er, I mean help you develop your skills.
Been to the museum as a young teenager, I also remember when the hangers in tillamook… well one of them anyways burned down. There is a water park next to the museum now right? I was involved in paving the parking lot like 15 years ago, maybe longer. Anyways would be fun to visit again.
Welcome to the forum, and wow, what a great place to work! I have been there in 2004 and maybe around 10 years later. The museum keeps growing, and has a stunning collection of aircraft and other artifacts.
If you are a docent, you might remember the guy lying on the floor, taking photos of the tiny Bede BD-5’s wheel wells. That was me.
Welcome to the forum, OA! Yeah, don’t let anything keep you from building. After all, it is a hobby.
There’s something an editor of a modeling magazine used to say, and I agree with it:
Build WHAT you like, the WAY you like it!
I look forward to seeing your builds!
Best regards,
Brad
Here’s what the campus looks like now (this is actually a few months ago). Let me know if you come visit again!
I should stop by again. I have friends living in Beaverton, and I never tried out the 747 emergency exit water slide. ![]()
Welcome to the forums. Please put aside your trepidation and dive in head first. Model building has never been better with all of the highly detailed kits that are out or coming out, and the technological advances such as 3d printing and photo etch have really changed the game as to how you personalize your builds. I’m a little jealous of your experiences with the museum. Sounds like a dream job to me! I was able to tour the Spruce Goose when it was in Long Beach. What a fabulous aircraft! Good luck with your future builds and don’t forget to post the pictures!
Hi my name is Tom, and I’m a modeling addict. It’s been 12 hours since my last modeling session.
Seriously, Welcome to the FSM forum and to the hobby. I say that with your position at the museum(maybe I should volunteer at our EAA Museum)you should dive in head first! There are a lot of other “vices” that you could be drawn to that are far worse for you & your wallet.

