After more than 25 years of not applying glue to plastic, I am trying to get my feet wet again. I have been reading this forum the past few weeks, soaking up as much as I can but have a few “rookie” questions since some techniques have changed since '79. I hope to do more than read in the next few weeks but may just continue to ease back in.
Where is there a on-line “For Dummies” starters guide that I can refresh my mind with?
Would the more advanced stuff like shading, blending, etc. be more than I should get into at this point?
Generally, what would you all suggest I do to get my 42 year old eyes and hands back in playing shape?
Get a couple of models, some glue, some paint, and pretend your eight years old and have some fun.[:D] I’m serious, just relax and have fun and don’t try to be a perfectionist for a while. The basic skills of applying glue and paint will come to you. Then start asking the questions on how so so applied their weathering or what PE set to buy, and how to use resin parts.
Scott
I got back into modeling after a 15-year hiatus. It’s amazing how quickly it all comes back to you. Maybe it’s partly because skills you learn while you’re young “set” really well (which is why it’s important to learn a language or take up an instrument when you’re a kid).
As for resources…It’s in need of some repairs and updating, but there’s our Hobby FAQ: http://www.finescale.com/fsm/default.aspx?c=ss&id=23 On a very basic level, we’ve got a little beginner’s intro to modeling booklet in PDF format: http://www.finescale.com/fsm/default.aspx?c=ss&id=33
We’ve got a fair number of old feature stories here on the site; some of them probably cover topics that interest you: http://www.finescale.com/fsm/default.aspx?c=ss&id=4
For the rest, cruise the Forum, and of course, subscibe to FSM. [:)]
You can start right here, Paddywagon. Like Scott said, dive right in and have fun. You have the best modeling website around at your fingertips for when you need help.
BUT - as was mentioned earlier - it’s all about the fun. Never forget that!
Thats right, after some time everything starts coming back.
I was 11 years without geting my feet wet, when i restarted
all came quite fast.
Now i’m trying more complicated stuff, like scatch build small parts for kits.
etc…
Wellcome again.
I started again after 20 years (71 to 91). I loved building models (all kinds) as a kid, but life intervened; then one day I saw this tiger tank (1/35 tamyia) and just “had” to build it. Haven’t stopped yet. May I suggest a pair of 2.75 or 3X magnifying glasses from wal-mart or k=mart and a good light source? Sandpaper (400 & 600 grit), X-acto knife + No. 11 blades, paint, glue, and this forum. These should get you started real well. Most of the rest of the tools you can steal from your wife[:D] or girlfriend[;)]. Nail clippers, emory boards, tweezers, Q-tips stuff like that. Something “sparked” your interest in modeling again, build THAT model, it helps with motivation. Other than that. like the guys said… it’s all about having fun. If you’re having fun it’ll take you wherever you want to go… good luck
G.L.