How to Buy Metal Model Kits and Accessories

Assembling a model collection - especially one where you've built the display yourself - is an entertaining and absorbing hobby, one that can be carried through childhood into adulthood.

Things You'll Need

• Airbrush Head Sets
• Airbrush Jars And Covers
• Airbrush Moisture Traps
• Airbrush Propel Regulators
• Face Mask For Painting
• Flat Hobby Paintbrushes
• Hobby Clamps
• Acrylic Paints
• Curio Cabinets
• Custom Cabinetry
• Desk Lamps
• Display Shelves And Stands
• Lockable Display Cabinets
• Magnifying Lamps
• Worktables
• Airbrush Cleaners
• Dremel Rotary Tools
• Airbrush Compressors
• Airbrush Kits
• Airbrush Paints
• Bent-nose Pliers
• Electric Screwdrivers
• Groove Joint Pliers
• Jewelers Screwdriver Sets
• Magnetic Screwdrivers
• Nut Drivers
• Pliers For Jewelry Making
• Razor Plane Sets
• Razor Saw Sets

Instructions

Assembling the Model

1. Begin accumulating a wide selection of tools.

2. Look around your residence for common household tools that are also useful in the modeling hobby.

3. Find a mentor. Experienced modelers have many tricks and tips that they can teach you.

4. Choose a place where you might leave the model partially completed if necessary.

5. Make sure the place is lit well.

6. Use a wide, level worktable.

7. Check parts against the manufacturer's parts list.

8. Read instructions carefully and completely before beginning.

9. Lay out parts in the proper order in small containers.

10. Proceed patiently exactly in accordance with the instructions.

Buying the Model

1. Think about your interests - airplanes, automobiles, ships, etc.

2. Consider specializing, perhaps building classic car replicas or World War II airplanes.

3. Set a budget.

4. Check your area for a modeler's club.

5. Visit local model retailers.

6. Subscribe to modeler's publications.

7. Use the Internet. E-tailers such as eHobbies.com provide helpful articles and a wide variety of stock.

8. Keep abreast of what's new - join e-mail lists and participate in discussions on Web message boards and chat rooms.

Displaying the Model

1. Think about how you want to display the model.

2. Start first with a shelf or cabinet until you decide whether you want something more elaborate.

3. Choose an enclosed cabinet if possible, something to keep the models free of dust and away from prying fingers.

4. Consider displaying the models in a theme-appropriate background, perhaps a series of classic cars gathered around a model of a Depression-era service station.

5. Move on to a diorama or more elaborate displays as you increase the number of models built.

Tips & Warnings

• Paint only in a well-ventilated area and wear a breathing mask.