The Ten Commandments of Building Scale Models

[@sirderekedwardhope6639]

As a 50 something returning modeller I'm grateful for this. I too have subscribed.

[@Triptunee]

thats nice of you! i did aswell

[@jeremynorman1330]

What a star you are. I started modelling when Airfix brought out models in plastic bags with a paper header (think 1950s). I am 71 now and I model for my enjoyment (railways and military vehicles). I learn every time I watch a You Tube video. Thanks for this and all your vids.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thank you Jeremy :)

[@carlosperaro1605]

I'm a long time modeler getting back to the hobby after a long time away, and I should say : that's the best video I have seen ! That's because it's not about building kits, or painting, or reviewing anything. It's about commitment with the hobby, and having fun along the process. Thanks a lot !

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Carlos Peraro thank you very much! Welcome back to the hobby. Yeah, sometimes a few of us lose sight of the fact it is meant to be fun and bring pleasure and a sense of achievement. Thanks mate, Dave

[@thorflf6744]

Patience, patience and patience. As a week-end builder I've done so many faults by not waiting for glue or paint to dry enough. My advice is to work on two or three models at a time and some scratch to experiment on. This keeps me busy all week-end even when something have to dry for 24 hours. Great channel :-)

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Thor, thanks for the suggestion. I always limit myself to one model at a time to remain focussed, but I can see the attraction of having multiples on the go.

[@rossanderson78]

Subscribed to your channel for one reason. I like your attitude. I'm 64 and wanting to get back into model building after nearly forty years. I agree that scratch building is the way to go and your views on Tamiya kits. I've built them all and find Tamiya to be the one out there for modding. The amount of detail you can add boggles the mind. One build I'm proud of I did at about age 22 or thereabouts, a 1/32 scale F-18A Hornet. Not only did I change all the control surfaces but added fiber optics to the interior panels and gauges. Landing lights, navigation lights...the whole nine yards. I had so much fun. Right now I'm waiting on a Tamiya 1/32 scale Spitfire MK. XVIe to arrive via snail mail (US Postal Service). I also have a list of after market parts for it. Expensive a little but well worth it if you want a quality build.

[@GinMiko]

First, let me thank you for this video. I'm sure the great majority in "our" field agrees with you. As for #8, you should have included paint brushes (not everyone uses air brushes). I have some well-used sable brushes that look (and work) just like when I first bought them 60 years ago. As for #10... I've been using surgical blades and sharp dental instrument for almost 70 years and never once cut myself. You need to be in control of the blade, and not the other way round. Anyway... I explored your channel, liked what I saw, and subscribed, not only for content but also for presentation and attitude.

[@mightyjjk1298]

Great video. Truer words were never said. One thing I’d add; “Thou shall not rely on instructions alone. Consult references of the actual subject.” Helps with #10.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Very, very true!

[@ronaldgirard7555]

Awesome tips and advice. Love your sharing your passion for our artform. Thank You!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

@@ronaldgirard7555 cheers Ronald!

[@skenny2010]

Great points Dave I just started back into modeling after 30 or so years being a kid doing this and great advice. Especially if you have a flaw that bugs you lol fix now or forever be critical. Cheers!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Sean Kenny welcome back to the hobby! For me, it is fun first, and then self-improvement second. Both are important, but if it’s not in that order it’s not quite right ;)

[@normansmith8184]

Only just come across this vid. Am an ancient newbie to modeling and this type of advice is brilliant, also you don't have a boring voice. Also have just finished a Stuka which I bought dirt cheap as pre-owned but thought I would have a go at experimenting so added my own "trumpets of Jericho" but it was a god awful Lindberg Line kit all the same and would not have bothered with it but for the fact I purchased some authentic decals for the Battle of Britain and since they cost more than the kit I thought I should persevere. Thanks Dave this was brilliant.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, I once built a Lindberg kit. Only once - never again! ;)

[@tedwilliams491]

All great stuff, as a 'lapsed' modeller (I mainly paint and build for war-games now) all of these are still relevant and worth bearing in mind in what I do too. I started building Tamiya as my first proper kits after I graduated from Airfix, so always glad to see them getting a shout out !

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I cannot deny it - I am a fan of Tamiya. They just work.

[@johnstimitz2629]

Great video. All 10 commandments are spot on! I admit to Advanced Modelling Syndrome where I force myself to add every little bit of detail and then get hung up on not having the "right" decals, or missing that one piece of info that "I know is out there" that only leads me to being frustrated and putting that kit away. Got to remember it's all about relaxing and having fun!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hey John, I know exactly what you mean. And then if you're tempted to let it slide, to not be perfect, you think to yourself "Am I just being lazy?" and you twist yourself in a knot. That's why i told my self #1 was the most important rule, and I put it in first place. Cheers mate, Dave

[@miriamflores3348]

I can't argue with this guy, I agree 100%. But for some strange reason I've had nothing but bad luck with Tamiya kits. For all the issues I've dealt with in their kits, Fujimi has never failed to be quite enjoyable. It underscores this video. It's FUN!!

[@chronicallychill6905]

Brilliant! You had me at IT Crowd. Excellent advice all around.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, you can’t beat the IT Crowd.

[@kevinchapman4362]

Always do the kits as you want not others ! It's all in each of our heads how we as model builders see our finished kits ! The point is to have enjoyment from it ! I haven't built a kit in some time but have two waiting to finnish ! A 70 cuda and a ju - 88 a - 4 that's begging me to step up to the plate ! Lol seen the kit in my hobby shop when I was much younger. And finally brought it home ! Seen it in the 80 s and finally got it will finish it very soon ! Been in a slump ! Love the older kits and bigger scales of them ! Brings back memories ! Take care good words to live by !

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Kevin, you so need to do the Ju-88, that is a great, brutal looking plane! What scale? Dave

[@sarahmcdowell3011]

With all this time in quarantine, I figured it would be fun to try out scale modeling! I just purchased an M4A3 Sherman kit by tamiya and I’m glad I came across this video before getting started. Great video!

[@vincentbradley2056]

Your point about fun is so true and the first thing I loose track of. Thanks for posting.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks Vincent. It's too easy to forget that sometimes... Cheers, Dave

[@juanboterohenao8603]

What a great video . Thanks for these advisers.

[@kennethc.bishop7090]

Commandment VII : TAMIYA TAMIYA TAMIYA !!! ALL BOW TO OUR lord TAMIYA !!! I am so glad you gave them an acknowledgment. No one, I mean no one, produces model kits as precise as the great Tamiya. Parts fitment are to the highest tolerances and mold flash is almost nonexistent. Seam filler? We don't need no stinkin' seam filler! I had rather build a Tamiya kit that mildly enthused me (Lola T70) than say a Trumpeter/Hasegawa/Revell made (my dream) kit, a 1:12 Ferrari 330 P4.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Kenneth, you're singing my song mate. They are the most forgiving kits out there. Some purists may say they lack really fine detail compared to other manufacturers, but for precise engineering and trouble-free construction they get my vote every single time. Cheers my friend, Dave

[@ahistorynerd1759]

Kenneth C. Bishop yeah you are right i did an airfix not long ago and I hated it it was a d-day battlefront diorama base and the paint never held on the plastic for the soldier since my last model wich is a Tamiya i wont go back to other company i think

[@donaldedwards6896]

I just got back in to modeling by buying a revell pt 109 kit from the 70s, haven't started assembly but I can say that the deck is bowed up, so this should be fun

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Donald, there's a lot of fun to be had in resurrecting an old 1970s kit and bringing it up to modern standards. It's masochistic, but it's fun! ;) Good luck with it, and if you have any questions please ask away. Cheers, Dave

[@hgbarnes1584]

Awesome! How often we revert back to silliness and forget what the hobby is for... TO RELAX!!!!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I know, right? Crazy how some grown adults lose focus on wheat is meant to be a pleasure....

[@ottonichols3433]

Absolutely brilliant haha. The Tamiya commandant was by far my favorite.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks Otto! Yep, I'm a sucker for a Tamioya kit, they are just un-screwupable. Dave

[@mike.thomas]

Cool video, thanks. It’s interesting to me how, 45-50 years away from building (back in the 70s for me), I watch this video and still fondly remember the names Tamiya, Italeri, Revell, and Monogram. And the fact that Tamiya is still arguably at the top is very interesting. I could never afford that brand as a kid, so I built Monogram, Revell, and Italeri kits. Now I could afford whatever kits and equipment I want. Already too many hobbies, and insufficient room to get back into this. Right? Right!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, you are SO right!

[@larrydelaruelle5778]

Great list. I especially like #9. If I haven't nicked myself at least once during a build I wasn't trying hard enough. That's why I keep a box of bandaids on the bench.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, very wise!

[@TheRunesmythe]

Great video, sound advice. Commandment #9 is one I'm intimately familiar with (and should have a series of sub-clauses for other tools like drill bits, clippers, sandpaper etc) and I've had some nasty ones including one where the blade and knife were almost sticking veritcally out of my hand; I thought I *might* need stitches for that one, but I also figured I had some super glue on hand that would work just as well. And Commandment #10 reminds me of something I say all the time (about any sort of art or creative endeavor); you're always going to be the most critical of your own work and no matter how many compliments you receive, you'll always see the flaws in any piece. One I feel should be added: If there are small parts involved, you *are* going to drop one. If you're lucky, you'll be able to find it again at some point. If you're *really* lucky, it'll fall someplace safe, like back into the box or an open container.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Oh, I like your additional commandment Runesmythe! Spot on. Incidentally, how did you get on with superglueing your wound together? Did it work?

[@dutchpilotguy]

Brother, your channel is my new hangout! Very inspiring, insightful, and exciting! Cheers!

[@Triptunee]

RULE #1 Do it with passion! great advise!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks. Yes, if it doesn’t bring you pleasure, why do it at all?

[@DainiusArt]

Nice and honest advices! Thanks

[@geggy5151]

Excellent advice. I try to go by, "my model-my rules", don't always manage it, but I try; and as someone once told me, we are our own worst critic!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I like the phrasing "my model, my rules" - I'm going to use that from now on. Thanks Geggy!

[@longlivetherebellion7379]

sound advice seems some people have forgotten it for fun and if you wish to build a pink tiger tank it your kit you paid for it go for it

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Damn right Steven! Exactly! I totally agree mate. Cheers, Dave

[@Emtbtoday]

Yeah no

[@IgnacioAOlivar]

Scratchbuilds it's morethan a commandment, it's a entire world in modelling! Specially in dioramas and stuffs related. I'm currently play Gaslands (a tabletop game with custom hotwheels or similar brands in 1/64 scale) and it's a pleasure and fun rebuild this cars to look like mad max vehicles using garbage, literally. For example, in a monsters truck that currently I'm working, to simulate exhaust pipes I'm using the plastic tube from ballpens (these little transparents tubes that contains ink). For dioramas I prefer a cheaper solution: use cardboard, tubes from paper toilet, shoe and cereal boxes with a primer coat of a mix between mod podge and black acrylic paint, insulation foam it's expensive in my country. Great advices Dave!

[@orca126]

I have a little vise grip I use to open stubborn paint bottles, I wrap them i n a rag in case they explode into glass shrapnel! I just cut my finger yesterday! Great video!

[@davidbarker3868]

Great thoughts Dave. I think you kneed to build a "bad" kit now and then to appreciate the good ones out there. Still think there is too much PE around when good plastic mouldings would look just as good after the paint goes on. Keep it simple.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I agree Dave. So many things in life, you have to experience a shitty version before you appreciate a good one - relationships, jobs, and model kits! Cheers, D

[@lancelehman1105]

This was good. Very good. I needed this! Now subscribed.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Welcome aboard Lance!

[@porthard5951]

Great stuff mate..really enjoyed your post. Me and my mate just come back from the model shop...he likes planes and I go a nice tank...

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks D.R.! They're both good ;)

[@andyr5579]

So many cuts. I used to do it more as a kid, when I had to use craft knife blades. These days I only use Swan & Morton surgical blades. (Made just a couple of miles from my house, here in Sheffield, UK.) I change blades frequently too. I still cut myself occasionally, but way less often.

[@BrettG64]

Just discovered your channel... nice! This video is great, and your Ten Commandments are spot on. I especially like V. I often think of this one, especially after watching videos where all of the walls of the presenters man cave is wall to wall product: paint or all colors of the spectrum in every brand; likewise with weathering products. I guess if a person likes to haves tons of stuff, that is cool and all, but I have found I like to keep things simple. But, anyway, great video.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks Brett. Yeah, I too am astounded when I see wall racks full of 1000 different paints. Like you say, if that's what floats your boat that's fine, but it seems a bit ridiculous to me. Cheers mate, Dave

[@TheCimbrianBull]

_IV: "... you will cut yourself..."_ Blood for the Blood God and skulls for the Skull Throne! Khorne cares not from whence the blood flows, only that it flows! P. S. And milk for the Khorne flakes!

[@MrThelittleguy903]

Excellent,excellent, excellent! I've been building for 45 years and this is the best advise for scale modelers I have seen. Forget tips and techniques, you provided everything a modeler really needs to know. Now, drag out that old Typhoon kit and build it. It will be like being dragged through broken glass but it will no longer haunt you.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Luke Loeser you are a motivational speaker, right? Because I want to conquer that Typhoon now! ;)

[@floridamanmick1372]

Number 9; Very True! I was working on the USS Lexington and I gave myself a darn good nick in the thumb

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

We've all been there, SkyWolf!

[@spudmemphis5518]

Thou shalt take paint from the tin/bottle and thin it before brush painting. Thou shalt not paint straight from the tin/bottle. I cannot believe how many people stuff their paint jobs up by not following this simple rule. It is so easy to get a decent finish even just using a paint brush, and not drying your paint out in the process, by simply stirring up your paint, and removing some to a seperate container and thinning it down a little before painting.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Properly thinned paint is most definitely one of those lightbulb "Aha, that makes it so much easier, why have I been making my life so hard?!?!" moments. Nice one Spud.

[@maritimus17]

Sorry for the dumb question, but thin with thinner or water when working with enamel?

[@spikespa5208]

Drop a small agitator into the (slightly) thinned paint bottle. A clean 4-5mm ball bearing or 1/8 inch nut?

[@Marukuzuu]

Dave I enjoy modeling small 1/700 scale ships but question if i want to use spraypaint and i need the structure of a certain ship to be painted along with some small guns do i spray on the sprew or do i assemble first?thnx

[@Marukuzuu]

Ps even though my Bismarck is cheap i still enjoyed it as my first kit even though its not that detailed I GAINED EXPERIENCE thats whats important

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Sean, there is nothing wrong with a cheap kit - I absolutely love trying to take a cheap kit and take it as far as I can. There is real skill in that, rather than just buying the most expensive kit with everything provided.

[@miriamflores3348]

. . . and thanks for the info. I needed to hear it.

[@keithyork7691]

thank you for sharing your thoughts and extensive experience

[@shawnstreeter236]

Excellent! Really enjoy the channel. Thanks for sharing.

[@CarDreamsinStyrene]

You are awesome man...those are very very important things and they to easy to forget ..great Video....

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks mate. Always a pleasure to hear from you. Cheers, D

[@briangrant774]

the commandments are spot on.when you were going through it i was like yep been there, like fix the problem when you find it. many of time i pick up when i,m finished I've said to myself why didn't i just take the time and correct it save me the time of having to go back and redo it because I'm so bugged by it when i look at it.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I know, right? I'm lazy, I'm always tempted to leave it as it is because I don't want to have to re-do something I've already done. But then every single time I look at the completed model, that little flaw bugs me...

[@ChrisSmith-nm8gb]

Words to live by. When you showed the commandments it kind of reminded my of Monty Python.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

The Meaning of Liff? Nice, I am honoured to be compared to them!!! D

[@TheM.A.]

Thanks for taking the time making this.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Joe, my pleasure mate. I like to do more in my videos than just "here's the latest product" reviews :)

[@2kidsnosleep]

Great video, absolutely spot on. My airbrushes get surgical like cleaning after every use. I am a big Tamiya fan also, but venture to others depending on subject, knowing there will be issues to deal with. Love scratch building and often use internal watch parts for dials and such...you can find them on eBay under “steampunk watch movement parts” cheap,as chips

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

2kidsnosleep that’s a brilliant idea about the watch parts, I’m definitely checking that out on eBay. Thanks mate!

[@TheGozalus]

I'm a thirty-something comeback modeler! Covid-19 brought me back to the hobby :D!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Rant Gant welcome back mate!

[@geoffmapes1684]

Magic! Thanks Dave, all good commandments. I get where you are coming from on cheap kits and the mighty Tamiya, but I love rummaging through the dealers' old boxes of forgotten kits at shows, dusting them off and then adding bits and pieces, converting them and when weathered they look just as good as an expensive kit. For a worrying moment, I thought you were going to add Airfix to your "never again" list. I would also add one - don't let your stash get you down, just enjoy them on the shelves as if they were books. You will get to them one day! Thanks again. I'm subscribing! Geoff

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

hi Geoff, I won't badmouth Airfix, they've had some bad moments but they seem to be back in the game recently. I know what you mean about updating old kits, although I recently updated an old 1960s era Hasegawa kit and it killed my mojo for bringing these old kits to modern standards! Welcome aboard, Dave

[@geoffmapes1684]

Great! Thanks for replying. Just returned to modelling as young son said he was interested. When I was a teenager, I only did 54mm Historex Napoleonics, (after saving pocket money that is) but my sons prefer aircraft now. Having a great time and just bought our first airbrush. Best wishes, Geoff

[@lweewillie]

Thank you Dave.do I think you are an arrogant snob know it all ? HELL NO ! I think you’re one of those thoughtful, helpful gentlemen that would like to help anyone you can in the hobby. Guys like you, Will Pattinson and a few others should be commended for your devotion to modeling. I hope to get good enough to one day be able to lend some expertise to anyone that can use a helping hand. Keep it up Dave and thank for your time and efforts.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks for the kind words Mike. That means a lot to me, it really does. Cheers, Dave

[@roxykattx]

Comments on the 10 Commandments: 1 Yes 2 Yes 3 Yes 4 I have NO IDEA how to scratchbuild other than in a very basic way. 5 Yes 6 I don't mind the cheap kits, but it depends HOW they skimp. 1/32 scale Lindberg car kits can be fun, while their 1/24 (1/25?) scale car kits are pure shite 7 Yes 8 I don't have an airbrush ( I know, I'm a barbarian. But airbrushes are no fun to use, despite the good results) 9 I very seldom cut myself. More likely to cripple myself opening paint bottles 10 I have to go against this one. If I don't accept flaws I never finish anything.

[@ottonichols3433]

Roxy Katt have to agree with crippling my hands with paint bottles more than cuts. So many calluses haha

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hey Roxy, I love your feedback :) I've made a 1/32 Lindberg car before, and it was fun, but I've never tackled a 1/24, so I'll take your word on that. And I get your point on Number 10 - I feel the same, I try to use it as a motivator to not stuff up that same thing on my next kit! Thanks for taking the time to comment. Cheers, Dave

[@randycoolbaugh1408]

#10.... yah, I have to agree. I strive for perfection but never achieve.

[@sac700]

I think airbrushes are fun only if you have money and time to buy a lot of models.

[@spikespa5208]

#6 Think of a cheap kit as a challenge for your skills.

[@kevinegan6876]

thank you dave for the important things thy should look out for

[@vallee1985]

You are so right my friend. I picked up this hobby again after a 16 year break. Bought a Italeri Jeep, cut myself in the finger and threw the thing in the dumpster! Bought a Tamaya StuGIII after that, had no problems with it and was happy with the result. I agree Tamiya kits are "idiot" proof. But those things get freaking pricey here in Canada. In my local Hobby store i saw a Mark IV from Tamiya for 80$ and one from Meng for 85$. Tamiya Kits are nice and i love building them, but they cant keep up with some of the other Companies detail wise. Last point is also so true. I just finished painting the White/Red marks on a Mark A "Whippet" from Meng. Screwed one site up and thought to myself: "Whatever i fix it later!" 20mins later i was back at it and made it so it wont bother me again! Not 100% perfect but i think it gives the Model more "character" :)

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

In my humble opinion, that's generally the best place for Italeri kits, lol. you're right about Tamiya's detail, there are some compromises to ensure ease of build, definitely. Is there anywhere online I can see pics of your whippet?

[@vallee1985]

My whippet is not done yet. Still have to apply the decals and have to do the weathering. But i do post pictures of my finished Models online. If you really interested, here is my last Model i finished: www.armorama.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=SquawkBox&file=index&req=viewtopic&topic_id=260235&page=1 Is the A7V from Meng.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

That's cool mate! I love the streaking, I would never have guessed that was your first attempt. Living in Australia I've been lucky enough to personally see Mephistopheles, the only surviving original A7V in the world - it's menacing. Is that Meng kit the one with the full interior?

[@vallee1985]

I would love to see Mephisto in person :) I m fairly new to the hobby, started around 8 months ago.. I did build some kits when i was a Kid but i was like 12-13 Years old. And i slowly pick up new techniques. On the A7V i tried streaking for the very first time. On my whippet i will try Filters. This way i slowly work my way up :) Yea its the Meng kit with interior. But the interior is so so. Fit is terrible and after i was about to throw the whole thing in the dumpster, i decided to just do the outside.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Glad you stuck with it :)

[@modelcitizen6759]

You can‘t cut yourself that often using a scalpel Dave, my God man you‘re a professional graphic designer! LOL. Loved the vlog, even the wife had a look see - I know, she‘ll be building kits next. Loved the look of the Tiffy kit, go on let‘s see what you cam do. Personally I love raised rivets, don‘t tell anyone that though. Dave (UK version).

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Dave, I do it Every. Single. Kit. The modelling gods require their blood sacrifice from me. The Typhoon is an amazing plane, I love the look of it, but I just don't know if I can face that kit so soon after the Mustang. I've done a little research online, and the fir around the cockpit door is particularly bad even on other really well-made builds by other modellers... And yes, I also rather like raised rivets, it's a shameful secret! Cheers, Dave

[@modelcitizen6759]

You must be truly blessed Dave! Looking forward to the next vlog - hmm, what is he going to do next? By the way just about to go salt my propellers, I‘ll show the result. Fingers crossed and uncut!

[@pebblesthecat3625]

Thank you for confirming that it's not only me who splatters blood all over my models, instructions, desk and tools ! My latest accident saw me slicing through my right index finger so deeply, I have now permanently lost the feeling in the top of that finger, and the scar has even altered my fingerprints. How did I do such a stupid thing ? By following safety advice and cutting away from myself, instead of towards me ! It took three weeks to knit together and was oozing puss and blood for the first 10 days, despite being thoroughly cleaned and sanitised (don't want to get sepsis now do we !) Serves me right for a momentary lapse in concentration.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Pebbles The Cat - oh wow, that is spectacular! Losing feeling and altered fingerprints = hardcore modelling my friend!

[@occamsrayzor]

Very sound advice, Dave. Dare I say it, these commandments are better than those other ones :-)

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I can't claim that mine are more important - the whole "do not kill" thing is kinda significant! ;) Heh heh...

[@abbysaabye832]

You have nailed it, crack on.!!!

[@garyallsebrook3493]

Great video and advice Dave! Tamiya is amazing! I'm restoring a real Willys 1942 MB and a friend who also does military vehicles (who also happens to be on active duty in the Army AND a modeler), shared with me a story about a large delegation of Tamiya engineers that went to his base (in the US) to gather details on the actual armor units for models they were planning to manufacture. They are quite meticulous about their accuracy. I agree with you about Italiere, Monagram and Revell, they don't don't stack up to Tamiya. The cheaper kits are great to get kids into the hobby. I did enjoy the Monagram 1:48 B-29, however, I believe that my B-24, B-25 and B-26 are also Monagram. What do you think of Trumpeter?

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Gary, I've heard that Tamiya engineers always measure from an original wherever possible - what a great job... Re: Trumpeter - I know that their kits are extraordinarily detailed, so much more than Tamiya. I've got a Trumpeter Marder tank in my stash to build, and it is crazy detailed, slightly intimidating but beautiful!

[@c.s.charles2102]

What do you think of Testor models?

[@BigYabai]

I'm just about to try my hand at #4. There was an old alternate history videogame in which mecha robots are all based on WWII tanks, so I'd love to try scratch building the bodies for those with a little help from tank kits for details.

[@michaelhudson8753]

Starting again at 70 with a 1:48 Supermarine Walrus Seaplane, Thanks for the commandments, they are so right

Nice to see your still going strong!

[@michaelhudson8753]

@ hardest part is doing the rigging

[@jjohnson1476]

Loved the video! Great advice. You seriously have a Edd China vibe going on.

[@gerryvandyk5551]

Dave, with your list of "won't build 'em" kits, I think you should give a bit of a nod to the date of the mold. Yeah, to be sure many of the Monogram and Revell kits from the '60s and '70s are pretty dreadful, they're recently tooled kits are a huge improvement. I'm back into modelling after 30-odd years, and chose to build a 1/32nd Spit. I agonized over spending the money on the Tamiya, or 'settling' for the Revell. I went with the Revell IXc kit because I wanted to have a rapid build oob, and not the months-long affair the Tamiya kit would demand. In essence, I observed Commandment IV. ;^) I scraped, filed and sanded some modest mold seams, filled a couple of join lines, but overall I'm really quite happy with the kit. Now since I started building the Spit, I've stumped up for the 1/32 Tamiya Mossie. All I can say is WOW! ;^)

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

HI Gerry, I built the Revell Spit way, way back in the day, and it was a fun build. Yes, agree with you that age of moulds had to be considered, but some brands just couldn't get it right back then in the 60s or 70s even compared to their competitors ;)

[@13Bravo77]

Great work Dave thanks for all the tips ! One thing your very soft spoken man , maybe you could increase volume on recordings? Like you simplified methods !

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks for the feedback Butch. I've been working on improving my audio in more recent videos, bumping up the volume. Thanks mate, Dave

[@ranavalona24]

Enjoyable, as are all your videos.Can't say I'm fully in agreement with everything you say, but generally, wise words. For the life of me, though, I can't see from the photos what's so dreadful about that Typhoon kit. It may be an indication of my age, and the sort of stuff I grew up building, (and maybe my low standards), but it looks fine to me. The rivet detail looks similar to what I'd put on it if It didn't have any, (is it too heavy?) and trailing edges may need thinning, but if it's accurate in scale and outline and I wanted a typhoon I'd be having a go. I certainly agree with you about the proliferation of tools. As a returnee after half a lifetime on other forms of model building, I'm amazed at the gadgets that are available that I apparently can't do without. And the price of kits! Jeez. I really dunno how guys build up a STASH! I'm currently coveting a Trumpeter Mig 19, but forty quid? For an inaccurate kit that's no better than your detested Monogram/Revell? Blimey. Maybe I should build 1/72nd but I do love 1/48th - as do my eyes, nowadays.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Malcolm, thanks for your considered comments. My main concern with the Typhoon is the fit of the parts. That car door looks like it will bang open in a breeze! I don't mind raised rivets at all, my 1/32 Stuka has them and I quite like the effect. But yes, all the expensive gadgets and materials are just out of control! For my money, 1/32 is where it's at - heaps of scope to add detail without going too insane like on 1/48. Cheers mate, Dave

[@richardlott579]

Love your 10 Commandments but I have to save that for me I would change #7 to honor thy Lindberg and Heller for they build some amazing sail ship models, or most likely the only ones. Out of the 125 ship kits that I have more than half are Lindberg and Heller.

[@kenhanson1819]

Great video, Dave. I've subscribed to your channel. Agree with all your commandments, but the Tamiya one. Yes, they are a great model company. I built several of their armor kits back in my teenage years. You may find this strange, but I have many of their aircraft kits in my stash, but not built a one yet! Having returned to the hobby 4 years ago, I've found myself building the Monogram and Revell aircraft kits of my youth (plus Italeri & Airfix). Yes, they do not fall together, but I'm learning a lot and improving my building skills as I go. You can't really knock them for variety of subject matter. I don't think we'll be seeing Tamiya come out with a B-58, B-17 or B-29 in 1/48 scale anytime soon, not to mention the F-101, F-102, F-106 or F-111. Tamiya always plays it safe and sticks to the popular aircraft that will sell, after all.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Ken, you've hit the nail on the head. I completely agree about Tamiya's aircraft range in big scales, they do play it safe. Although in 1/48 scale I've seen some more esoteric planes offered. I also have a thing for building the kits I most wanted when I was a kid, and up until the Mustang I really enjoyed bringing them up to speed. But it kinda killed me inside when I saw how a 1/32 Tamiya Mustang straight from the box had more detail than I would after all my scratchbuilding and updetailing. I'm not saying I will never again, but I need a break from ancient kits for a while :) Cheers mate, Dave

[@kenhanson1819]

I have to agree with you as well about the 1/32 Tamiya kits, especially the ones released in the last 10 years. Incredible detail. I've got the Zeros, (both the A6M2b & A6M5), F4U-1A Corsair and the recent Mosquito and the detail just blows me away! Now I just need to reach that level where I feel I can do justice to them.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Ah, that Mozzie really tempts me. But I'm starting to run out of display space, and she is a big bird! I reckon give it a crack Ken, start with one of the Zeros. Then when you get around to building the other one, you can be pleasantly surprised and see how far you will have developed over time :)

[@alejandrosanchezvaldez803]

Nice video, thank you for sharing...

[@roxykattx]

Great video. We need more model kit philosophy. Manufacturers I don't like are Amodel and Glencoe. Ambivalent about Italeri. I like Tamiya and Hasegawa. The new toolings of Airfix are very good, but the old toolings are clumpy. RPM drives me nuts.

[@Carwyn.Morris]

Mine would be 1) Wash thy plastic and once more before paint. greasy fingers do the devils work. 2) Thou shall not purchase AMT (All Model Trash) kits any more 3) Cleanse thyne bench of crap and return tools to their proper storage. 4) make template and maquette before making cuts in plastic. 5) Measure and re measure before clasping a blade 6) Thou must not touch model to see if it's dry. paint a sample piece at the same time and test that. 7) Apply the tape of "St Tamiya the tacky" and risk no other on final paint. 8) keep a small box for placing used/snapped blades in and when full tape shut before disposing. 9) Thou shall stop trying to revive eight year old crusted, dried paint instead spend some shekels on some new......Once in a while 10) when scratch building Thou shall not spend out on expensive primer that you are going to end up sanding away. Only the good stuff before the colour.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Carwyn, these are the best! I love every single one. Okay, can I edit my original topic to The TWENTY Commandments of Building Scale Models? ;) (I'm so guilty of not following your #3. Forgive me for I have sinned...)

[@michaelmolkenthin6042]

Hello Dave! Very impressive. Some of these commandments work for many other things too. Btw - Tamiya reboxes Italeri-Kits in some regions. May be you've built one without knowing it. ;-) Happy modeling and greetings from Germany.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Michael, I've noticed that too - there's usually a sneaky little Italeri logo on the Tamiya box somewhere to be wary of! All the best from Australia, Dave

[@shaneadair1472]

Excellent set of commandments, love the vid

[@kkkkk711]

Good stuff and totally agree!

[@Scaleymodels]

Brilliant Dave. Got it spot on. Lessons to be learnt on every build. But Shhhh don't mention the " R " word lol great video 👍

[@brickunleasher7631]

My first models wings came out badly cause I was outside and my neighbors didn't know I was hear and I heard them talking smack about my doge and I was wondering if 72nd scale tanks exist

[@BobBoB-ez1pi]

All the ten are so true. Even to me a figure builder/ painter.

[@hensleyshobbies-doug7761]

I only have one thing to say bro, Right on!! Amen!

[@papaben5427]

Is that Wilhelm II's helmet on your bookshelf ?

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks for noticing Papaben! As well as building models, I also collect pickelhaube helmets, the spiked helmets worn by Imperial Germany prior to 1916. I don't own any which were worn by Wilhelm II himself though, I'm not that rich! Cheers, Dave

[@robislookin]

love your channel...so far lol, but I would like to have a bit more on the volume, I am hard of hearing. we can turn it down if it's too loud but, we can only turn it up so far.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Robert Young thanks for the feedback. I’m naturally softly spoken, so it’s something I’m working on. Cheers, Dave

[@jklondon1397]

Sound advice Dave - but you seem to have missed the most important commandment - "Have not a wife, mother, pet or telephone within 100 miles of you if you wish to indulge your hobby for more than five minutes at any one time." - ain't that the truth?

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

JK, you left "Child" off the list! ;) Dave

[@jklondon1397]

Quite right - but no one's perfect.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Are you in London? I've only been once, in 2009. I imagine the hobby scene there is pretty comprehensive? Dave

[@jklondon1397]

Hi Dave, - yes I am in London (west area between the city and Heathrow). From my own experience it seems that the hobby scene is far better served in other areas of the south-east and generally anywhere other than the London area these days. Most hobby and craft shops tended to be small family-run affairs serving a small but loyal customer base, who over time have been priced out and replaced by high street chain stores or property developers. It seems only big business can survive in this very small but absurdly expensive area of the country. Such craft or DIY materials available in shops tend to be in bar coded blister packs on a rack, and sold by people who have no conception of what they might be for. I guess most modelers are using the internet these days, where its possible to find very well-stocked suppliers who still take a genuine interest in their products and the clients they serve. Best wishes.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Similar story here in Melbourne, the smaller operators are slowly going out of business leaving only a few bigger players. What can you do, eh? The internet is a blessing and a curse at the same time.

[@henrysanchez4810]

Great rules to model by...

[@daveyuk2212]

All very true, always try to improve even if it's a small improvement it's still an inprovement

[@ivanescualexandru1196]

Awesome advice and philosophy! I totally agree with everything. As for #11, for the fun of it: Thou shalt make a mess when using pigments. Love thy "dust" :)

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Nice one Ivanescu. Pigment dust is amazingly messy and amazingly fun in equal measure :) Cheers, Dave

[@ivanescualexandru1196]

Wow! This is the first time I get a reply from a channel owner. And what's even more amazing is that it's from someone I admirea lot!!! Made.My.Day. :D ps: sorry for sounding like a youtube noob/ giddy schoolboy :)))

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, nothing to apologise about Ivanescu :) Thanks very much for your kind words, your cool comment made my day too mate. Dave

[@Gamechannel10321]

you can trust trumpeter for their amazing work of labour spent in their mold making and the details of the kit. but their decals are pretty thin so you should be careful not to tear it.

[@TheTonyosiris]

I can relate to everything here, this video sir, has made me a new sub. Nice!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

parker t thank you, and welcome aboard! Cheers, Dave

[@larrybrown1824]

Nice. Enjoyed it.

[@EasyTiger700]

Nice one m8: I can relate to and agree with most of the above. Ps, I just bought the same typhoon. 😂

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

hi Neil, let me know how you get on with the Typhoon. I did a little searching online to see completed builds of that version, and there aren't many around these days it seems. Good luck, Dave

[@EasyTiger700]

will do , struggling with a lack of space at the mo,so it may be a while before i start.

[@joesimon5642]

Oh great, I was hoping someone would do a vid like this. You got my sub

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks Joe. Glad you like it. I've got lots of other stuff too, hope it entertains! Cheers, Dave

[@telescopereplicator]

Great video, Dave ! Here is my response to the ten commandments : 1. Absolutely agree. The only one that really counts. 2. Agreed. 3. Very true. 4. The more you build, the more (small) parts you will lose, over time. Building an old kit, or losing a part, will necessitate you to scratch build. 5. Some new tools really are great, but I also make my own tools. AND glue !! 6. I mostly collect old kits. The older the better. There are only ten or twenty parts in the box, instead of two and a half thousand minuscule parts that will take you years to assemble............... Making compromises is a daily occurance, for me. And I have built that crappy old Typhoon. Turned out to be a very nice model. Okay....nothing fits. Huge gaps everywhere. But that's what filler is for....right ??!! |-) 7. Nope...... I DO NOT agree. The first Tamiya kits were bad. The competition at the time (other Japanese brands) were actually better than Tamiya !! Max, Peerless, Otaki, Nichimo, Arii, Doyusha, Fujimi, Imai, Aoshima, Marusan, just to name a few, could easily compete with Tamiya, or were just plain better. Back then. And I still prefer some of the old kits over a new Tamiya. And DO NOT forget that reboxing was a daily accurance. Even in those days. Molds were often exchanged !!! Today, Tamiya uses Italeri molds to make their latest models !! Did you know that ? And some Tamiya kits, old or new, really are difficult to assemble. Sometimes parts fit badly. Tamiya is not perfect. And today, Revell boxes have another manufacturer in the box, 99% of the time. And some of them are very good. REALLY good....!! So why shy away from Revell ? First, make sure what's inside the box. You might be pleasently surprised. 8. Yep. Keep 'm clean............ Just make sure you buy a chromed one. Chrome is FAR easier to clean than nikkel. And nikkel turns flat and grey VERY quickly. It makes the airbrush look 100 years old............ 9. Make sure you use a surgical scalpel. You can cut yourself far easier and deeper with such a super sharp knife. More blood = more fun. 10. ........... damn............... I've NEVER built a flawless model..........................

[@reubendapiton573]

Any tips on how to make broken glass for a diorama I am making?

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Reuben, What sort of broken glass? Is it shattered panes in a broken window? Or rubble? Or a vehicle window? Cheers, Dave

[@ArmourEmpire]

Well made points. Good vid

[@ronzufelt1428]

Totally agree. It is a hobby so have fun. I build for myself. Not fun get another hobby.

[@gramps9838]

Bravo sir! I hope you dont mind my sharing your advise and help topics to my Facebook modeling group . Thank you Sir!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Not at all - please share away :) Cheers, Dave

[@ryzenenjoyer2824]

Great video, but I dont know a lot about tamiya kits, I have a heli by tamiya in a box but I (at least now) prefer Cheap ( if I Mess up it only costs ~8€ for me to get a new one.) Revell kits (BF 109 g10 1/72 Hawker hurricane mk2c...) . I think one my first kits was The revell p51 D Mustang. it was like 5 or 6 years ago and I still have it. I rebought The kit for fun and...well... Its not as detailed as I expected but Its Ok. Back then i did a plane in a day or 2, no paint inside only outside, Windows foggy and other stuff. Now i get one of those 1/72 planes done in 3-10 days and I paint The cockpit, exterior and all that stuff, I use revell contacta clear So The Windows dont fog up, in my opinion my skills have improved a lot. it took me a while to figure every step I was doing ”wrong” but it was still fun which is The Main point. I did a lot of planes and cars back then, I still do them but school is kinda on The way :/ Anyway, Great video!

[@danielbrowniel]

hey man, if you ever thought of acting I bet you could be a great sit in for the late Philip Seymour Hoffman

[@danward8720]

All of those are important. But, but, BUT, cleaning thy airbrush is THE most important (or the most equal among equals)! Even a relatively inexpensive airbrush is a significant investment. And, to keep it at optimal performance, clean it after each use. PERIOD! Your reward for doing so is a fabulous finish on your model....

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

So true, Dan, so true! If I'm ever tempted to get lazy and put it away with a half-arsed clean, it always bites me the next time! Good addition to the Commandments mate :)

[@constellationshots3893]

I think when it comes to cheap kits, I think you'll be fine if it isn't revell or italary, I agree with you, Tamiya is the best, I like hasegawa, airifix(one of the best cheap kits, good plastic and fit), and more.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I've always found Hasegawa to be good kits. Not the most amazing detail, but solid engineering and reliable builds. Airfix can be a little hit and miss, but I can't say I have tried any of their more modern offerings.