[Syxx_Killer]

Ok, I am wondering, what stuff would I want to get if I were building models? What kind of tools do you use? I've built models before, but my "techniques" were primitive at best. I always think I would like to build models again. Maybe I could get rid of all the broken, wrecked ones (one word - cat ) and start anew. I also wouldn't want it to break the bank, either.

Also, how do you create "special effects" like rust stains on the hull of your models? Do you use an airbrush or something?

[Hrafnin]

well being a model builder myself i would recomend a good set of x-acto knifes some small drill bits and wire for pining large parts and some modeling putty for closeing gaps and such.

As far as special effects like rust stains or smoke stains on the stacks thats pretty easy. for smoke stains or large patches of rust or the like use whats known as dry brushing-take a paint brush you dont care about and put the paint your going to use then rub most of it off on a paper towel then lightly brush over the area you wan to apply the effect to.

for driping rust say from bolts you could use an ink wash look at a hobby store in the paint section for inks but remember to dilute them before applying or they will be way too dark just like the old cooking addage you can allways add but never take away

feel free to PM me if you have any more questions

[Sailor Steve]

Another cheap but effective way to apply very subtle rust and smoke is to go to an arts-and-crafts store and by painter's chalk. Small chalk sticks come in a huge variety of colors. Many airplane builders will tell you that they make wonderful smoke stains, and they're easy to control. You can even use a paintbrush to apply them if you like.

[popeye]

airbrushes are very useful in model building. learning how to wash and drybrsh is also required skills. there are many good books on the subject. look for something written by shep payne.

[terrapin]

a wax putty set (BEST thing I've ever bought)

a decent airbrush with a good compressor (a silent one... )

X-acto knifes

the complete line of proxxon 12V tools

dental tools

lots of needle files

lots of sanding paper and -foil (up to grain 6000)

Acrylic paint from tamiya, enamels from humbrol, revell, gunze etc..
real rust for rust, pastels for weathering

various thinners + solvents, all kinds of glues


...lots of patience for research...lot's of patience for modeling...

In autumn I'll put up an an article series covering the Revell VIIC 1/72 kit...I'll try to be as detailed as possible, targeting also ppl who don't have much modeling experience

[Duli]

Great Terrapin, I am looking forward to it.

[popeye]

http://www.armorama.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=Sections&file=index&req=viewarticle&artid=654

here is a link to a nice article about how to build a type VIIc. nice looking model.

[Capn Tucker]

[terrapin]

[Sailor Steve]

[popeye]

i really want to build a model! i live in china, and i can buy kits everywhere, but getting the proper glue, paint...all the other stuff...forget it! i used to build alot of armor models, 1:35th scale. one of my best pieces though, was my HMS Victory. only 2 feet long, but i worked on it for over a year. the rigging and sails were all scratch built.

[terrapin]

[Capn Tucker]

[popeye]

nice display cases cost a few bucks, even to make, with oak and stuff. good way to dispay your hard work though. im very interested in making a decent VII kit after reading that article.

[2019]