The Little World

The question of what you want is one that bedevils us all at some stage of the modelling game. It can be as simple as thinking what sort of model – boat, train, car, figure, etc you are attracted to. It can become as complex as a major research project into some specific mark of obscure aircraft. One thing is sure – the more options you perceive, the greater the discomfort.

It need not be so – and the point at which you decide your plan is the cheapest time of all. You have not spent money nor ruined your first lot of materials yet.

To figure it out, ask yourself what real-life thing is most interesting to you. And then ask yourself why it is so. It may be the romance of the sea draws you to make a sailing ship – or the stirring stories of the Air Force make you want an airplane. As these are models, you need deny yourself no desire – there is a way to make a model of anything. And anything you model can be made with even the slimmest purse.

You may find that what you want to make is also popular with other people. This is important in some cultures – the herd mentality often wishes to be rewarded by herd approval. Others want to build something unique. I know myself that I frequently stray from the kit colour schemes or markings to make a model of a different aircraft. It is sometimes more colourful than the kit design.

The model you select can be too complex for newbie completion – it is rare that it goes the other way. Do not be put off by this thought – a simplified rendition is often just as pleasing and you gain skill for a more complex build later. You must not be off-put by someone decrying a kit as too simplistic…Good completion of a simple model is skill well rewarded.

So – having decided to build – say – a plastic model kit of a small car, you head for the hobby shop with your birthday money and…

And I’ll meet you there next post.