Sold Off 80%of my Stash The Unkited Gooch how I got rid off most of my kits and will never look back

[@shockwave-zv7fh]

I've suffered from SABLE too (Stash Acquired Beyond Life Expectancy), like you I sold most of it, now down to one kit at a time and much happier with the hobby again. Good luck with the move sir.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

That sounds ideal.. I just hope I can build what I have left… at least I can save money on buying new kits.. no real need now

[@czarneckims]

Another video where Harry absolutely nails it! Thank you so much for saying in public what many modelers think in private. Keep up the awesome vids, Harry!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I just calls em as I sees em…. glad you liked the video

[@Blowinshiddup]

I started feeling the pinch of Father Time lately too. When I figure out how long it takes me to finish some of my projects, and space I have, I need a big workshop and about 25 years of dedicated time. Feck. How the hell did I get old this quick?!?

[@Jeff-cv4qn]

Me too mate

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Those little boxes sneak up on you until they take over the hobby room.

[@Lambonights]

Keep being you Harry, shine on you crazy diamond! 😸

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Wish you were here mate ;)

[@philmitchell8109]

You found a better use for the money. It's a hobby and you have what you want from it now. At the end of the day it's your property to do what you want with, I just enjoy your enthusiasm so I watch your videos.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Good on you matey… thanks for watching

[@billevans7936]

Still laid up in hospital but gives me some time to ck out more videos ...nifty ...works

[@MGB-learning]

Get well soon

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Get better soon mate… but take advantage of all the bed baths from cute nurses while you can ;)

[@martinoude-vrielink7956]

Great topic and video. I recently did the same. Sold majority of my stuff and kept the ones I am sure I want to build. It was really refreshing doing so. Now keep the challenge to keep the stash small 😂

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I am trying not to buy or get gifted any new kits from now on.

[@jeffreysmith6280]

I have a problem with SABLE (Stuff Acquired Beyond Life Expectancy) too. Being a Wargamer/Modeller led to a stash of armies and models. Had a wake up call after having to assist with clearing and advising on how to deal with a late friends collection of over 3000 model kits. Many had been started but most were not. It was heart-breaking having to do this. Some were passed to a local modelling club and some to a charity providing kits for veterans recovering from PTSD. Most were put in storage and are being sold off slowly, but steadily by the family. Helped me to see my own problem and has introduced a ruthless streak in getting rid of parts my collection that were getting in the way of enjoyment of my hobby. .

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

My father left me a portion of this die-cast car collection, over 200 items, but there were many more valuable cars his wife kept. I had no room for them and was moving back to the coast. Only kept one large scale Bugatti Racing car. The Removals guy showed an interest in the collection and offered me $1 each for every car. Strangely my bill for relocation was $200 more than the original quote after we unloaded here. Never the less the collection went to someone who wanted it and would appreciate it.

[@wombat_models]

I'm very happy to be one of those who helped reduce your stash by slinging you a few sheckles for some boxes of plasticy Tamiya F1 goodness!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Which I hope to box up and post today…. took me all weekend to sort out the garage and find some large boxes I can cut down for your kits.

[@wombat_models]

All good ​@@HarryHoudiniModels Can't wait to get in to them when they arrive. Cheers!

[@BobbyG-bp9xr]

Hiya Harry. Really enjoyed hearing your thoughts and history of your stash. I spent 20 mins in a relaxed state for a change! And everything you said makes perfect sense! Sometimes it takes someone to tell you something you don't want to hear, before you make a rational decision that you should have done many years ago! Maybe I've reached that age where you become more aware of your mortality, and as you say, you won't build all of these kits. And the money tied up in them is also dead! Great to hear from your Harry and congratulations on achieving such a reduction, not only on your stash but also, I'm quite sure, on the weight on your shoulders and mental wellbeing. As you say, you feel cleansed! You have inspired me to take a look at my stash and reduce it. Cheers Harry, always a pleasure mate. 😊 Take care and see you on the next one.. oh.... almost forgot! Did you see the new Airfix 2025 range launch last week? That might have already scuppered my plans! 😢😂 See ya later mate! 👍👊

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I did see the new 2025 range.. knock up a new Starship kit, ooops Elon wants money to use it likeness, errrr un, well make that other one NASA won’t mind… but it is broke and won’t launch this decade… naw its fine no one will notice… and while you are at it dust off the old Saturn 5 and Shuttle moulds, yeah I know they are full of flash, warped, and rubbish kits by todays standards…. but then we can say we have 3 new Space Race kits and cash in on the millennials too!

[@BobbyG-bp9xr]

@HarryHoudiniModels 🤣🤣 Yep sounds about right! It's the aircraft for me though and I've been looking for the RAF rescue launch for a while now. Hopefully it won't be flashy! 🙈 Cheers Harry 👊

[@jeffholt9437]

"Dead Money" Unless you're in debt or starving it's pretty academic- what else would you have spent your cash on...?

[@MrScipio72]

Great story mate - my stash isnt quite into the hundreds but I am starting to think that some of them will never get built. It is so true that life changes.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Life and needs always change, so you adapt and move on…

[@TimAnnear_1961]

I'm moving house too and sold about 350 kits on FB marketplace and I was drowned with people wanting to purchase. I've only kept about 15 specific kits and thought hard about the scale and genre I wanted to keep building. It's a welcoming feeling to be able to see the walls of my man cave.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

It is a good feeling to remove the clutter

[@TimAnnear_1961]

@@HarryHoudiniModels hell yeah, only very specific kits now and I can't wait to unpack all my hobby stuff.

[@MGB-learning]

Great video

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks matey… I had fun making it.

[@SteveT-0]

I sold 100% of my stash just before christmas and all my tools, airbrushes and compressor too. I quit the hobby because I wasn't happy with my work at all. I will still continue to watch channels like yours and enjoy them though! :)

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Sorry to hear that mate… it doesn’t matter if your builds are masterpieces like so many KZbinrs show here… if you enjoy the build, that’s all that matters. Build a kit, your way, enjoy the process and don’t have expectations of the result.

[@donivanpotter2762]

I always loved scratch building. I'm still working on a 1/15 scale half track that I started more than 10 years ago. Unlike model kits it bolts together like the real vehicle. It's made out of different materials from brass to aluminum wood plastic and rubber. I've tried to make everything on it work like the real vehicle. I was going to redo the transmission in the differentials but I haven't gotten around to it. We all have our likes and things that help us don't help us. For me I always loved researching how things worked. I loved going to the library and studying diagrams. Figuring out how to make something. I don't get out much. I've got an unknown muscle condition that has shifted all my fingers out of place. Other joints are shifting as well. My muscle disease also causes toxins to build up in my body. Doctors say I have enough toxins in me to kill five people. my muscle disease also can harm and destroy organs. My heart swelled in 2023. Luckily I fell dead at the hospital. It's fortunate that they were able to bring me back. I had emergency open heart surgery and then a month on life support unconscious with a 3% chance of surviving. When I woke up I couldn't move or speak. It's an experience not being able to communicate that you need help. That you're in pain or you need something. The doctor said they can remove everything and I might live 3 days. I was able to point to a piece of paper with yes and no on it. It took a while for the nurses and doctors to figure out that I needed something like a piece of paper with yes and no. My sister told me I had to fight to stay alive for her and her kids. The rest of my family's already passed away. I'm 57. I had additional surgeries. I took months to be able to use my arms and be able to talk. To eat real food again. It took more than a year to be able to walk by myself. The only thing that's kept me going is I get to escape into my mind. I've started working on my hobbies again it's not easy but it helps me escape. My upper lip is numb, the right side of my head is also numb. I can't feel my right foot. I got scar tissue all over me including in my heart. My front chest looks like I have a spine like my back. lol. I can't do the things I used to. I will never be able to. I used to work as a professional artist. I used to sculpt, do wood carvings, metal work, and make swords. I did traditional art, 3D art and Digital media. I taught engineering and various classes. Best job in the world. I loved what I was doing. For me model kits give me an escape. I got two books I'd like to write but whether or not I'll get them finished I don't know. I've also been working on a 1/16 scale tiger tank. Again I was trying to make everything work. I was trying to make it out of the correct materials whether it was wood or steel. The kit originally was all plastic and RC. I stopped working on it 8 years ago. Took care of my dad for the last 3 years of his life and didn't have time for other stuff. It's a long response to your comment I apologize. Do what makes you happy. That's all that matters. My life is over and I find some happiness in model making. I'm able to still draw even with all the problems I've got I just can't do it quick enough to compete professionally. If I work whether it's teaching or any other job toxins build up in my body. The doctor said the best they could do is maybe 2 days a week I could work. The rest of the time I'll be in bed recovering. So I just stay at home work on my hobbies and try to be productive as best I can. I'm single and I'll remain single the rest of my life. I take care of myself live by myself. I struggle daily. But I do find happiness and joy in art of any sort. I enjoy seeing others making and doing things that I used to love doing myself. I love seeing people happy. But I don't blame you, this life is precious and you should live it the best way that makes you happy. Best to you and Don't ever let stress kill you like it did me. Dying is easy, coming back is a pain in the butt, believe me. I don't see replies, best to everyone. Enjoy life.

[@mickturner9201]

Well said Harry, couldn't agree more. Most of us have more models than life expectancy.

[@garymarkham2165]

When TOO many kits is NOT, enough ! hahahaha, -I'm kidding 🙃🫠🤪.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

It has become an alarming trend, and completely unnecessary. Buy the old rare kit you know you will build one day, or grab something on special that you would have bought later anyway… but I think there is no need to hoard hundreds of kits

[@cosmarendy8417]

Thanks for sharing Harry. I understand the stash reduction. I look at my stash of 120 kits and I know that I can’t build them all.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I tried making sure I built one before buying one… but my build rate died after the plague… and people just kept giving me kits. So drastic action was required

[@robertgrimsted877]

Glad you are still building ships Harry and your always a bloody good laugh and a legend 😀

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks Robert…

[@basfinnis]

I’m in the process of sticking my kits on eBay. I’ve got so many kits 😮 Keep it cheeky 😉

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Cheekiness has never been a problem

[@Joepacker]

Harry love your channel. I got back into the hobby about 3 years ago. I had a stash of about 12 that I had hung onto for over 40 years just collecting dust. Since I got back into it I went through all of those in my stash in about 2 years plus refurbed several models that I had built over 40 years ago and made them look better than new. I have since increased my new stash to about 30-35 kits. I only buy what I intend to build and ones I really want. I mostly just build Sci-Fi kits now. There were not that many 40 years ago but now there are model kits of space ships I always wished for back in the day but weren't available then. Now there are too many to choose from so I limit myself to what I really want. I only build one at a time. I am not the type of person who starts multiple projects and never finishes any of them, I like to finish what I started first before going on to the next. Good luck on your move.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

You sound very focused and disciplined. I admire that. My life seems to be chaos and reaction, which I don’t like much… but there it is.

[@tomsenior7405]

I am delighted to note that you have cleared out the majority of your stash. As a collector of Model Kits since I was a teenager, I have amassed a rather large "Stash". For insurance purposes I had to catalogue the lot of them recently. Oh dear, it runs into thousands of model kits. It took me months to go through them all. My original plan was to start building them once I retired. Unless I live to my 300th birthday, this is not going to happen. Instead, it looks like I will be spending my retirement working full time selling the bloody things. My advice; "Never own more than a dozen kits at one time".

[@garymarkham2165]

Ah, what a relief, i only have to live till I'm 200 to sort out my stash, lol. Best wishes in sorting the "pile" out 👍 🇰🇷🇦🇺.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Good advice Tom

[@robertfarrar6212]

Excellent reminder! The stash here isn't anywhere as big but it will get culled. Keeping the 1/700 and the few 1/350; a fair amount of the 1/48, 1/35, and automobile kits. The rest I'll donate, sell for a deal on e-bay, or parts box some bits and pieces, then toss.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Sounds like an excellent plan matey

[@PaulDekleva]

In the late eighties when I got back into modelling, my stash was around five kits being a mixture of armour and figures in 1:35. But then along came Verlinden 120mm figures and the stash went to about fifty. Some 1:35 and a lot of 120mm and 1:16. Eventually I made the kits that were the most interesting and got rid of the rest. I too moved around a lot. I gave up the hobby due to financial constraints, then I started watching modelling videos and that’s how I found you (the tracks video). I joined a number of facebook groups in modelling and painting. Now my stash is one bust and one old redo. Went out and bought new paint (a range of manufacturers and types, an airbrush which is my first and other stuff). I’ve been living at the same house for twenty years and may raise my stash by ten and no more. So Harry, been there done that; so I can sympathise with you. Modelling always brought me joy and I like others became obsessed. All the best to you.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks for sharing your story Paul

[@ronaldbyrne3320]

Happy for you Harry, unburdening yourself. I need to take a long hard look at my stash too, and proritise the kits within. 😅

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Sounds like a plan Ronald

[@ronaldbyrne3320]

@ 🤞🏻

[@nickbutler7935]

Your unique video style is why I like them so much. I was quite chuffed when Airfix announced their 2025 releases. The E-Boat, MTB and Rescue Launch are being re-released later this year. I'm putting them straight into my Build pile (AKA the stash). I made a Pact with myself. I won't pass on until I've built my stash🤣. I hope the Junk was not part of the clear out Harry. Cheers from The U.K.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Junk safe… on my list after the 2 current sailing ships are done

[@BobbyG-bp9xr]

Yep. They are going in my stash too!

[@nickbutler7935]

@@HarryHoudiniModels Excellent news. P.s Hope you and Bask enjoy your curry.

[@nickbutler7935]

@@HarryHoudiniModels Excellent. hope you and Bask enjoy your Curry.

[@jeffholt9437]

Just bought the original release of the E Boat on eBay for the same price as the expected re-release. I've wanted it for the stash for years 😊

[@paultanker5606]

G'day to you Harry, Oct. last I sold all my 15sq mt Train Layout had it since 98' and all Locos ,Wagons , Buildings I had plus all my Kits, I had a Stroke earlier and can no longer Paint with any Pleasure, now 75 just kept all the Vehicles that I enjoy looking at! Armadale West Aust.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

In the end all we have are memories anyway… until they too also fade. Thanks for commenting Paul.

[@paultanker5606]

@@HarryHoudiniModels Thanks Mate, yep memories are a good thing to cling too, once more thanks Harry, Cheers!

[@amyschry4129]

Great video Harry. It made me reflect on my own stash and due to advancing age(eyesight & dexterity) & health issues I've come to the decision to reduce my stash. My story of modeling is so similar to yours, childhood modeler then years later as an adult, armor led to aircraft and then ships followed by automotive. Too many kits and too little time left. Congrats on reducing your stash. Tom S.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks for watching Tom… we have to be more realistic of expectations as our bodies slowly fall apart.

[@panzerleader49]

Harry, I must say I totally identify with your place here. I have wayyyyyy to many kits, mostly wooden sailing ships that by their nature require a vast investment in time to complete. I gotta do what you did and 'lighten the load'. Thanks for the inspiration!!!!!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Do what you need to matey…

[@FinsburyPhil]

I think it's important to get to a point where you know what gives you the most buzz - could be any or all of collecting, assembly, scratch building, painting, weathering, particular genres and of course will probably change over time. For me, the choice of subject has to have a story behind it; and I'm also doing what-ifs, which I find gives you quite a bit of freedom and artistic licence.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Sounds like you have it all sorted

[@sirrathersplendid4825]

Stopped modelling just for the sake of it when I was about 16. No space to display my completed kits! Since then I only buy for wargaming purposes - the kits then have a use besides collecting dust. Still have a stash of over 100 unmade or part-made 1/72 scale AFVs and vehicles, which I hope to paint 🎨 in batches for speed. It’s still too many to be honest. Guess I’d best go back upstairs now and get on with the painting! LoL 😊

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks for commenting matey

[@feti3825]

Well done, Harry!😎

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks matey

[@matthall143]

Thanks for the video wake-up call!! My problem is that I suffer from completer syndrome. I started with the aim to focus on Japanese WW2 aircraft.....I bought every variant of each type. But when I had achieved this I switched to Luft 46 and built up a stash of every available kit, including a lot of expensive resin models. Next it was German submarines (more available than you can imagine), then German armour and WWI vehicles.....how many have I completed to my satisfaction..... about 5!!!......I stopped buying about 4 months ago.......not yet at the point of slimming down but I know that day must come soon

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

At least you have recognised the problem…. now you can plan to sort it out

[@jeffholt9437]

4 months ago? I feel your sense of loss....

[@historex54tamiya]

There is a certain UK channel that could seriously learn from you!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Yes, but would they?

[@travisdavis5182]

I am just getting back into the hobby after about 10 years. I need something to do when I retire. I find myself having to restart from scratch as I sold off an overly large stash I had collected, including all my paints and tools. Whole story to go with that. But I am being more particular with what I buy and my stash now is less than 12. I have made a deal with myself and wife that it won’t grow anymore until I have built those. I like how you made the statement that “hoarding all those kits isn’t fair” ! Stashes can get out of hand too easy!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Yes they can just expand without warning. Keep to your dozen kits and you will be fine.

[@RaymondSuess]

Got a pretty good pile. Currently not working due to health issues. See what happens. Definitely is something to think about

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks for watching matey

[@borderlands6606]

I only have 5 unbuilt kits, currently. Should have them made by the spring, after which it will be buy one, make one.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Sounds very sensible matey.

[@WildBillJr]

Fantastic Harry. Great advice.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Glad you liked it Wild Bill

[@howardelzey2760]

I got into the hobby several years ago. I only keep around 15 kits in my stash at any time. I actually plan out all of my builds and maintain a loose build schedule. I plan out a years worth of builds each January which for me is around 10 projects a year. I never work on more then one at a time. I don't have several unfished or started builds around. I do each one start to finish by itself. I have a dry erase board in my hobby room that tracks each build and what kits, paints, after market stuff, ect. that I need to build each one. I'm buying paint for my July project this week. I build mostly airplane dioramas. The only reason I have any kits in my stash that aren't on my build schedule is because I always keep a few around in case another covid like event happens and everything gets scarce and expensive. I enjoy the hobby a lot and don't feel pressure to build too fast just because I have a lot of stuff in the stash. I have had other hobbies in the past that I spent way too much on and sold out for pennies on the dollar. I'm not doing that again.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

You sound very organised and disciplined. I have tried making a plan for the year ahead, but the need for weekly KZbin content to feed the algorithm and my need for food and rent always threw my best laid plains out the window.

[@AndrewBraden-k2y]

Oh, I know the feeling. I have been trying to sell some kits for ages. No-one seems interested in them despite the prices being below retail.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

There may be two forces against you. 1. buyers simply don’t have as much expendable cash now with everything that is going on in the world. 2. There may be a glut of kits on the market as the Baby Boomers realise they can’t build their half century of accumulated kit boxes. I had to drastically lower my prices to sell anything, most of the time running at up to a 50% loss on my purchase price. But it was do that or let more dust settle on the boxes of kits I may never build.

[@AndrewBraden-k2y]

@@HarryHoudiniModels I think you might be right. A rethink on pricing might be in order.

[@TheQstoltz]

You look much happier now you have a plan going forward. All those boxes looking at you must have been some form of Chinese torture. As I’ve said before, we would watch you heat up a tin of beans so a focused build schedule will be treat to behold. Best wishes and take care. Regards.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Bask is opening the bean tin as I type… that’s next weekend’s video sorted!

[@TheQstoltz]

@ That’s great. Looking forward to it. Best wishes.

[@anthonylichfield3540]

Hello there Harry greetings from the UK to you and bask the cat .I am a similar vintage to you so I only ever have a small stash around a dozen or so I am getting close to my three score and ten lol 😆 not that I intend going anywhere soon but if I had a large stash what a wast that would be my family would probably donate to a charity shop. Anyway mate as always happy modelling to you and everyone 👍🍻🍺😁

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks for sharing Anthony

[@MichaelCampin]

I used to build Heller Ships with tge vac formed sails and the rigging former was ideal using extra thin cement on thin black cotton, but the rigging was very rigid.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Try using white wood glue to set lines or bees wax to smooth them out for natural curves

[@mh53j]

For many of us, when we were younger we had time to build kits, but not the money to buy many. As we got older, we made enough money to buy more kits but the "responsibilities" of being an adult (i use the term loosely in my case) ate into time we could devote to our hobby. Just doesn't seem to be a balance here.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

It is a dilemma matey

[@brucek3217]

I did something similar a few years ago. Sold off a bunch of my kits and now it hovers are 100 or less. Since the 1980s I have also always sold my built kits (except for a few special ones) to fund my model hobby so I don't have a lot of built kits lying around either. I've been building since I was 8 and now I'm 63. I like building kits, but I have no interest in storing them long term. LOL

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I have given away built kits… never had the heart to put them up for sale. Many are in storage but come out once in a while as I rotate what is on display.

[@markgordon2260]

My dad was into antique flying models, and some Free Flight. A long time member of SAM (Society of Antique Modellers).

[@MichaelCampin]

I built a balsa Tiger Moth ,rubber band powered and it flew if it broke I just rebuilt it with more Balsa wood, happy days.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Those were my first type of models I built with my Father. Wood shavings and white glue, I still love the smell of it to this day

[@colinspeirs]

Hi Harry I am more from the wargaming side of things, but the "deals" and "projects" experience is similar, and, getting on a bit, not wanting to leave my mrs with a big pile of crap to sort out, and tryiing to reclaim some space when alive, I have started to get ride of stuff, some to a charity shop, some being sold, as close to cost as I think as I can get away with, not looking to profit, even for the OOP stuff Your video and the comments are very cheering. We are not alone

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Thanks for watching matey

[@chadgun4135]

Hurry up Harry I'm going down the pub

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

You can probably get WiFi at the pub mate :)

[@chadgun4135]

Not the pub I go to ​@@HarryHoudiniModels

[@chadgun4135]

Not at my pub​@@HarryHoudiniModels

[@chadgun4135]

Bit of a sham 69

[@barryswinbank2108]

I have just retired and I have stacks of tubs full of model kits - looking forward to adding icm 1/48 Hampden. I would like to build this but I think won't happen. However if i sell on to other modellers I know will go to a good home - go to the merry go round on buying and selling on!😅

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Some kits do seem to circulate. Thanks for watching Barry

[@1965GJS13]

My physical stash is less than 40 kits. Much more, I now maintain a "virtual stash" on ScaleMates via their wishlish feature. That way, if I want a kit of a particular subject, I add to to my wishlist, and can easily replace it if a newer/better/whatever version of that subject is produced, and it doesn't cost me a penny, nor does it use-up space in the house. Even so, my physical stash is still bigger than I would like.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Interesting concept. I always had kits in my Scalemates wish list, but only ever a few, and eventually found all of them. You have discipline. I see, I want, I buy… at least I did before the plague when I had money. Being poorer has sobered my judgment and led to this realisation of less is more.

[@davidebert8034]

I’m trying to sell some kits, but people are trying to be cheap and not pay for shipping. I know , it is rather pricey, but buyers just aren’t willing to compromise.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

You can rarely get back the price you paid for a new kit when sold second hand. The ship kits I recently sold all had hundreds of $dollars worth of extras included. However buyers just compare my price to the new kits price and if mine plus post is more than what they can buy and walk out with at the hobby shop, even though mine has all the extras, they just won’t buy. So a $150 ship kit now with wood deck, metal barrels, photo etch etc that cost me all up a total of $300, only sells for under $100. That’s just how human nature is.

[@davidebert8034]

@ I see your logic. To give you an idea of what I go through, I recently inherited various model kits, one of which is Tamiya’s USS Enterprise in the 1:350 scale. I offered it for 150 USD, which is 65 dollars less than Sprue Brothers. One guy sent me a message, “I will offer 65 dollars for the kit.” I replied, ‘no.’ Kind of an insult, I thought. Oh well, it sits on my shelf

[@Damien-q8t]

Picked up a number of the old Airfix magazine from back in the 70s and 80s. .in the January 77 issue there is a build and review of the then New Airfix Tornado and it states the retail price of that model i(in the u.k) back in 1977 was £0.75 pence

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

It’s a relative.. the acreage wage was probably under £10K back then

[@Damien-q8t]

@HarryHoudiniModels yep...it was less than 1 pound.....how things have changed

[@ejharrop1416]

@@HarryHoudiniModelsindeed Harry and it is amusing to hear the focus today on inflation rate as if slowing it down is worthy of celebration. If only the concept of how long you need to work to buy a loaf of bread were the key metric. Life on the treadmill…. Cheers mate.

[@nickbrough8335]

I recall a packet of crisps from around 1972 ish was 2.5 pence when we still had half pennies

[@TomCarroll-e1j]

It happened to myself l thought armour and bought way to many tanks l never built. Now l collect more of a diverse variety like my Airfix WW1 bus, Revell 1/32 Typhoon, and a polarlights Silver Knight. I got bogged down in Armoured kits. Today I'm painting Wild West Figures so l change myself because of model builders boredom or burnout.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Always good to challenge yourself with a new subject.. keeps the dementia at arm's length.

[@doczoff5655]

My stash was killing my hobby because I despaired of building everything. I'd split out well over 50% that I would never build with the intention of selling, but then I got caught up in "Maybe I'll keep this one" and never sold anything. On one cathartic day I just decided 'to hell with this' and drove the whole lot to a charity shop before I chickened out. I have never regretted doing that, I'm enjoying the hobby again, and I am whittling down the remaining stash by actually building them (a novel approach indeed!). The only part of my stash that didn't get culled is my 1/600 Airfix kits, because I DO want to build all of those!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Glad you kept those Airfix kits… the old 1/600 ships are getting harder to find in the original plastic from the just tooled moulds.

[@rogerbowen5753]

I will probably need to assess my stash before too long. What did I buy because I could, and what did I buy because I actually wanted it!? I hope I find the answer before the removal van shows up!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I’m sure you can sort it Roger… just keep what you will build, sell what is easy to get again if you ever want it, and remove all the kits you know you’ll never find time to build.

[@rogerbowen5753]

@@HarryHoudiniModels True, I just need to be brave and sort it I guess!

[@tonyrobinson362]

Ive got the Esci BMW 75 1.9th scale with sidecar and mc gun, I will never make it but i cannot let it go i know?

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

There are some kits I will never sell for the same reasons… but there were plenty that could be easily replaced if I ever wanted them again, though I doubt I will given what limited time I have to build models these days

[@tonyde6423]

Nice one harry

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Good on you Tony

[@ifanai]

Hi Harry, I got a huge wake up call when I went to my late bothers home to help sort out things, unfortunately my brother was a huge pack rat with 200-300 unmade kits, and 50 more half started kits and then there was a huge amount of broken computer keyed models. Unfortunately most hit the Dump as he was in a very isolated part of Queensland. That made me have huge second thoughts so have reduce my stash now to 30 kits and resin figures and that to is far too many

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Did you know about Sprue Funders or Model Nerds? They will buy an entire kit stash if you simply want to get rid of it. Of course you won’t get as much as if you sell each one individually, but they do buy in bulk. Having said that, depending on how remote you are that might present a delivery / collection issue. Still worth asking them if you need to sell a lot of kits again.

[@darronhedges5873]

My stash intimidates me,what could I replace my WnWs AEG-ZM He219,Ho229 kits with if I build them?An artesian 1/50 Clara may ketch with hull formers missing would do a better job though,I could ignore it.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

The thing is, once you have built that model, it is done, you really don’t need to experience that build again… move on to something else

[@musoseven8218]

Another great video - I enjoy the recaps and philosophical stuff👍👍😊😊. Won't be long until I start selling off kits etc. I really want to finish my large scale Spitfire and Mustang, started those in my teens, left areas of them until I got older and better at model making. I am better now, but the bl@@dy faculties are failing. Now they're both buried in the loft somewhere🙄🙄💔 Like you, I'm a builder, not a collector, I tried that, and that way therein madness lies. No value judgements made, each to their own. Your story about ships and photo etch (PE) etc, biting off more than you can chew? I've three boats left to build. One of which is the 1:72 Flower Class Corvette (ex Matchbox), I hope to make it RC. I was plotting and planning on LOTS of additional PE (it came with some as does the MTB), so much of it in fact, I think I would have sunk the bl@@dy thing, it would have weighed a ton! Also some PE parts that are so tiny they can't be seen and require a degree in origami? No thanks, been there, done that (still some to do on the trains, but I don't fit all the PE nowadays I'm more selective, hopefully have more sense now). So I was slowly doing research on Corvettes trying to know, which boat to model, what to model, what to make stronger, AND what to leave off, what PE sets I wanted? The PE manufacturer has retired a few weeks back, decision made then! Unless I can buy key items from a dwindling number of specialist shops. The kit came with some wooden decking, and the IMP decks are pretty awful, some details are raised instead of recessed and as an older kit, some 'parts fit' isn't great and the four part hull is a challenge with the plating present etc (I had to make a judgement re alignment due to old tooling - and to make good requires sanding back and me adding back some plating, it looked darn close, but it ain't close enough. Some put individual rivets on the plates, overscale I might add, and unless you're really close to a ship of that construction in real life? The rivets can't be seen🙄). So I've switched to the MTB, the hull is pre-formed, there are PE kits for it (I won't bother) it comes with some PE, some wood etc, and for an RC model? I'm pretty much building it straight from the box! Hopefully that will be a joy, may be not for the pedants and rivet counters down at the pond (but who cares about them!). If a lottery win heads my way, it'll be a ready to sale 1:48. Corvette. I've all the fun, phaff and frustration of building model railway rolling stock, that has to work properly, if I want a challenge. Bitten off more than I can chew? Yep, didn't think I'd get to my sixties this quick, plus spent time on the occasional commission, article and helping others/giving back. I think that letting go, taking the pressure off can be very freeing, even if forced to at times. Brave of you, but freeing too. 👍✌️🙏💜

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

It was suggested when I was younger that I become a psychologist due to my philosophical outlook. But the job meant dealing with lots of problem people… not my cup of tea. I am a builder/creator/inventor and am happy to while away my hours alone in my workshop, only emerging out of my cave to talk to a camera or cat when needed.

[@musoseven8218]

@HarryHoudiniModels Amen to that Harry Similar here, psychologist, architect (too late after studying in another direction and fed up with 7 years of professional study etc). I'm happiest, making, writing, creating💜💜👍👍✌️✌️😊😊

[@Bob-b7x6v]

I'm thinking of willing mine to fellow builders or the IPMS near me.

[@garymarkham2165]

Sadly all our IPMS members here have the same kits and quantities, try selling anything they just laugh, lol.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

yeah maybe not as much a good idea as you thought.. read Gary’s response

[@SEMJW]

I can imagine kit manufacturers will go ape, like the; 'American Tourister- The Gorilla Commercial 1971' if they see this video. Perfect timing on the subject, Harry. My stash has grown to thirty from twenty within a year. Twenty are active projects. Mostly 1/32, 1/24 aircraft. All long term builds, six months+ each. Five of the current are all Tamiya 1/32 F-4J kits, four being converted into long nose E and EJs and I am becoming concerned that I am thinking of buying another kit if it goes on sale.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Your stash is still small by comparison… just build what you have and do not buy more than what you finish… a good yardstick is build 2 buy 1. Your stash will slowly reduce but you can still acquire new kits

[@SEMJW]

@@HarryHoudiniModels I agree with you Harry, but it is relative in more ways than one. I will get the classic, 'Not Another Model Kit!' spoken in a disappointing tone followed by, 'You Are Running Out Of Room' and or "How Many Do You Need" plus "Why Would You Have Two Or More Of Those"not to mention, "How Much Did It Cost!!!!" in some cases, " I See You Sneaking That Big Box Into The House" with the ever present, Knee jerk response of, "That's Not Staying In My Living Room!"

[@markgordon2260]

I wish I had seen your single wing WNW Junkers when you sold it... I have 7 WNW kits, and that is the limit.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

As long you will build them bet as many as you need

[@robbroy]

Legend 👌🏽😍

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

…in my own lunchbox LOL

[@fizzyridertoo]

The problem I have with my stash is that I find the process of building it almost as much fun as making the models. I do need to reduce it though and I have a cunning plan. I'm moving to the UK soon and they have a charity for ex-servicemen who build models. I've earmarked about 100 kits for them, so that should make a significant dent. I'll also sell off those kits that I have plenty of examples of. For instance, I have too many Spitfires, 109s and 190s for my own good. My real interest is in Cold War jets, so maybe I'll get rid of everything else. I just sold 40 kits on consignment with a local hobby shop. Mostly Revell, because I'm not a fan of their stuff and these came from a stash I bought on Facebook for $350. I thought it was just a dozen kits and it turned out to be over 80!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Sounds like a feasible plan

[@kiethpederson7558]

Same here im 48 and realized im never going to or have time to build em

[@orbitalair2103]

yeah, 60 here and I have about 70 kits in my stash. But I go to shows and see 30 yo kits that havent been in print for decades. And now AirFix does 3 space rocket kits coming this summer, all in 144 scale.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Two very old space ship kits now with worn out moulds.. and one new tool one. Bet they wanted the Space X Starship but Elon would have asked for royalties… so we got the booby prize NASA Rocket that may never do the task. Honestly Airfix.. it’s a blatant money grab piggy backing on the current space race.

[@kiethpederson7558]

@@HarryHoudiniModels I too had like 12 wing nut wings kits and it was pretty hard to part with those but you move on

[@mart764]

Sound advice, Harry. There's a fatal combination of being adult, and therefore having the cash we did not have as kids, and AMS (Advanced Modeller Syndrome) abetted by all those after-market parts to mean we accumulate kits but complete very few! And then there is the Chinese factor. I am a 1/600 and 1/700 warship modeler and have been too easily seduced by the explosion of choice of models by the likes of Trumpeter and Flyhawk, never mind the way the Japanese produce new versions instead of reboxing old ones (I am looking at you, Revell and Airfix). Then there's the undoubted pleasure of buying a new kit. So my stash is impossibly large for the pace at which I build - I would have to return to the productivity of my 10-year old self: a battleship in a couple of days, sorted! So, good advice, but looking at my stash, which is to go - and will I just then go and buy the latest seductive release?

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

We just can’t help ourselves can we? Thanks for sharing your thoughts matey.

[@keithmartland6463]

If i built one kit in a month, it would take me 36 years to get though my stash, so i think i also need to get shut, and i wonder why i have no money, i think us modellers need to have a support group going, you known like AA, we get together once a month, sit in a circle, and go from one to the other, Hello my names Bob. I'm a modeller, and i haven't bought a kit this month, then on to the next person and so on, of course all the model firms would closed down as no one would buying any more, but hey were cured!

[@garymarkham2165]

We do have support groups here in South Korea, we call them Hobby model clubs. Our club do day tours to my house to look at the walls (shelves) of death ! Lol 😅🤣😂.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

My name is Houdini, I am a model kit stash addict. It has been 6 weeks since I last bought a kit.

[@Tanubtanu]

Welp, I missed a bunch of wingnut wings on the background. The price definitely ramp up since it's bankrupt. I've seen some Wingnut wings of market place being sold for 200+ AUD each I wonder if those are your stashes

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

None of my current kits sold for over $200 AUD, in fact most were well below.

[@CrazyKitBuilder]

I often thought about selling my large stash but i found out im kind of stuck with it

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

It is only a chain around your foot which you can easily step away from… You are never stuck with things, you choose to keep them. Make better choices

[@markgordon2260]

Me again... I have always been aircraft. But, my then 6 yo Grandson gave me a Tamiya 1/48 Hummer for a birthday present. I now have built close to 30 of the Tamiya 1/48 military kits, which Nicky (now 9) uses for dioramas. They do not stay in the stash.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Good to hear.. if you are building and enjoying your kits, that is a good thing.

[@jeffholt9437]

A human moderator would have just flagged up the lack of fish fingers on your channel.....captain!

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Bask’s ears just popped up…. did someone say fish?

[@jeffholt9437]

​@@HarryHoudiniModels😊

[@Bob-b7x6v]

TUG. Noice.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Everyone deserves a good one now and then

[@1337flite]

So my mere 51 kits is totally fine and I can keep buying? Nothing is as fine in life a a great enabler!!!!!! Just kidding - I never really considered the I might not live to make them all, but I too am not far off retirement and not all that healthy, so that is seriously something to think about. Thanks for getting the old brain box turning over.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Numbers are relative.. for some a dozen kits is too big a stash. For others they tell themselves they are collectors, so are not so concerned about building their kits. For me 500 was too much, less than a 100, even under 50, would be much better given my age and ability to complete models.

[@tonygary7611]

👍

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

thanks

[@fenman1954]

Slim Pickins was a good supporting actor in Westerns.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

The name is a joke based on an old saying from the miners… not much gold - slim pickings

[@robertgrimsted877]

Hi Harry so true I’m 61 got loads of warships kit many 1/700 a lot of resin ones never gonna build them all in my lifetime I’m a great guitar player that’s my passion but still Harry all are interesting hobbies just imagine you were married you would not have a a chance to do any ha ha I have been married three times but since I’m single got a lot more money and time

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I’ve had my fair share or wives, the first forbidding me to make scale models as that was a toy for children! SWMBO… got rid of her! But even the good ones take up a lot of your time, although I did manage to restore an old classic car in the shed. That is the trick. Get away from the reach of the trouble and strife. Every man needs a shed.

[@MichaelCampin]

Wasnt Slim Pickins an actor???

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

It was an expression first.. he stole it as a funny name..

[@soppdrake]

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Keep it that low

[@soppdrake]

​@@HarryHoudiniModels trying my best, but the gits keep churning out kits! 😮

[@anthonyjones5444]

If the stooges at You Tube consider your content lewd and smutty, I suggest that you title one of your next videos: Scale Modelling & Ubiquitous Tugs.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Not many people can pull off “ubiquitous”… well done!

[@Bob-b7x6v]

The Shelves of Shame shall not go to waste...

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I thought that term was for kits started, but never completed? Hence the shame or being un done.

[@Bob-b7x6v]

If I didn't need to work constantly, the herd would be thinner...

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Same problem here matey… since the plague my productivity went from 20 builds completed in a year down to 1 or 2… no time… working twice as hard for half the income

[@SingaporeanPatriot]

What could Harry be doing today?

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

making a video….

[@seananthonyegan3395]

It's easy to pick up a bargain kit or that's what you tell yourself we have all been guilty of this,

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Bargains are hard to resist, same as first releases when you fear the price will rise or the limited run kit become scarce. The thing is to seriously ask yourself: will I build this in the next 5 years? That thought can sober your decision.

[@philb2085]

Which one of those kits will be the first one you buy AGAIN? 😂

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

None of them… I still have more kits than my able body will ever get the chance to complete. No need to buy anything new.

[@jeffholt9437]

Indeed!

[@christopher959]

Here’s me thinking you had no kites.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I have no kites to fly…. but I do have 20% of my stash kits left.

[@robertgrimsted877]

Your right harry about having to many kits even if you met the perfect woman that actually allowed you to build them you ether love them to much or not enough ether way it’s a bloody pain in the ass ha haha my wife’s used to say to me you think more of that guitar than me so from then on I used to take it to bed with me ha ha ha never got rid of my guitars ha ha ha

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

If I expect allowance then that is unacceptable… understanding and acceptance that this is my hobby is more mature and adult. If you want a woman that “allows” you things, then you are still a little boy.

[@canofanger]

Does anyone have tips on how or where to sell your models?

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

Although you can sell on eBay, they take a lot in fees and there are many traps. Ive had a number of people not update their current address or email in eBay, buy a kit off me, which was sent to the address listed in their account, then report me when the kit didn’t arrive. In one case it not only locked out my eBay account but also shut down my business Paypal until we could figure out the person had moved, but not updated their delivery address. These days I post kits on Facebook, KZbin, and Scalemates. You deal directly with the buyer and for the most part the sales are smoother, have less fees, and everyone is happy.

[@canofanger]

@@HarryHoudiniModels Thank you for the advice.

[@MrPDoff]

With out the so called rude bits taken out of the show the shows, Still Has interesting Topics. S.H.I. T. For short

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

I did do a series of videos called Special Harrys Info Topic… but people said it stinks

[@MrPDoff]

@HarryHoudiniModels I heard it was crap.

[@LemurKrazee]

Seems you can be verbally offensive as possible but show the naughty historical markings, your channel will be deleted without warning. Happened to me last week.

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

So I have heard… many of my builds have swat stickers… so far no nannybot action… but give AI time and it will find fault with everyone.

[@basfinnis]

I've just put the first two of my huge stash on ebay 😒

[@HarryHoudiniModels]

well that is a start :)