Modeling US Armor of WW2

I've written several books and hundreds of articles on armor modeling, and I decided to take a different approach in this book. Instead of describing some specific modeling projects, I've stepped back and tried to provide a broad overview of my modeling techniques. I've done this so that I can spend more time on each of these modeling specialties. When writing about my latest model, I've often found that I fall back into robotic mode when trying to summarize my painting or weathering technique for the 400th time. So this format provides me with a bit more space than usual to describe my techniques. I want to emphasize the phrase "my techniques." This book does not cover every possible painting or construction method as there simply isn't the space to do so. It is about the methods that I use. I do not claim that they are the best techniques, but they are techniques that I have found effective for my own style of building. This book is intended to be a bit of a smorgasbord. My modeling style encompasses not only a tank model, but associated figures, stowage, scenic display and photography. I don't expect readers to be interested in all the subjects, and I don't expect readers to be interested in all the various techniques.

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How to Paint and Weather Scale Models

Simulating wear and tear on combat machines helps make convincing models. Chipped paint can be simulated by dry-brushing with metallic paints, marking with graphite and silver pencils, applying metallic powders, and chipping with sharp tools, but these methods can be time-consuming. Our fast, easy technique requires nothing more exotic than ordinary table salt. It all began when one of us, Michael, was making pretzels for his kids one evening. Reaching for the kosher salt, inspiration struck. Why not simulate paint flaking by masking a model with salt before applying the top coat? This led to several trial runs, all with convincing results. The salt technique has several advantages. Application is quick, and salt adheres almost as well to lightly moistened plastic as it does to egg-washed pretzels. The salt grains slightly disrupt the flow of paint sprayed at an angle, thus contributing variations in paint intensity and depth. (Modelers have used liquid masking substances and rubber cement to create a similar effect, but they lie relatively flat.) Salt can be applied evenly to replicate gentle wear or in an uneven pattern to simulate more aggressive natural chipping. When wiped from the surface and captured by a cloth, it also serves as a sandpaper-like abrasive to create additional wear and streaking on the paint.

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Model Builder International No.1

MBI is your newest source of information in the model-building world. Our goal is to not only bring you a high-quality print publication, but to be the very first scale modeling magazine to offer a paper-free option for those who prefer electronic media. We intend to do this by changing how our magazine is developed. MBI is a magazine created, written, and edited by modelers • Modelers who are enthusiastic about the hobby! There's a learning curve involved, and MBI might look like just another model magazine at the start. But the staff has a plan and goal, and we want MBI to be the magazine that all others emulate. The success of this magazine hinges entirely on the passion and commitment of everyone involved, from the author to the reader. You can be a part of that passion -just drop us aline. The issue you are reading today is just an insight into what MBI is about. From this point forward we will be bringing you a magazine like no other. MBI's future issues will be theme based from D-Day to the Pursian Gulf and everything inbetween. Not only will you see fantastic builds but, those builds will be accompanied by the history of that specific model or the battles in which it fought. In essence you will be getting two magazines in one.

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Model Aviation World 04/2010

When we first saw the announcement that Tamiya would be releasing a large scale Spitfire we eagerly awaited the modelling treat ahead. As more and more information about the kit began to emerge, there was little doubt that Tamiya had gone to extraordinary lengths to produce an excellent kit of an excellent aircraft. Based on the philosophy that 'it's good to share' Spencer and I split this project between us. I have built 90% of the model as subassemblies, painting internal parts where appropriate. Spencer then takes over for the final part of the work, putting my subassemblies together and applying the final paintwork and decals. I acted as the chief scribe whilst Spencer completed the model. Having spent some time looking through the instructions, you will see that several of the stages can be tackled in any order you wish. Much of the build is modular with the sub-assemblies brought together at the appropriate time. However, I will take you through the build, step-by-step as it appears in the instructions book.

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