8 Helpful Tips To Improve Your Scale Modeling Experience

Scale modeling is a fulfilling hobby for millions of people around the world. There are classic model enthusiasts who work on trains, airplanes, and cars, but there are also many other kinds of scale modelers. Some people build elaborate dioramas from video games and movies, while others build entire armies for wargaming and tabletop RPGs. Regardless of which hobby branch you belong to, here are eight helpful tips to improve your scale modeling experience.

1. Focus on Your Likes and Dislikes

Thanks to the internet, it’s possible to find many other people who are into the same hobbies you are. The thing is, all those people have their own preferences for how to do things, whether it’s priming miniatures or choosing certain manufacturers to buy from. Just because someone has a large YouTube following doesn’t mean they’re right about everything. If you want to do things differently, you should go for it!

Another thing to keep in mind is that you may not enjoy all parts of the hobby. For example, maybe you love weathering model trains but you don’t particularly like building scenery. It’s OK to tailor your experience to the parts that interest you the most. Don’t feel obligated to make model trees from scratch if you don’t enjoy it.

2. Start Small

No, we’re not telling you to only work with small model scales. What we mean is to start with small projects. Scale modeling can be very complicated the more advanced you get, so don’t take on a huge project without practicing on smaller ones first. When you’re new to a hobby, buying kits is a great way to learn how to build and paint things. Many model manufacturers even make learner kits for this very purpose.

3. Follow Kit Instructions

When you buy one of those starter kits, make sure you read all of the instructions before jumping in. Depending on the type of project, there could be steps that permanently alter model pieces. You might accidentally ruin your kit if you do things out of order or misread the instructions.

How can you make sure you follow all the steps? Check out these tips for staying on track:

• Read the instructions before starting the project.
• Note any questions you have or terms you need to look up.
• See if the manufacturer has an assembly tutorial video online.
• Mark off the steps each time you finish one.

What To Do With Kit Instructions

Once you’ve completed a project, you may be tempted to throw away the instructions. We recommend keeping that paperwork so you can reference things like the model information and paint colors. They may even prove helpful if you need to repair your model one day. That said, we understand that not everyone likes keeping paper instructions around. To get rid of excess paper, just scan the instructions and store them on your favorite local or cloud drive.

4. Take Your Time

Scale modeling is one of those hobbies where it becomes really easy to want what other people have. Some people may have the means for an entire room in their house dedicated to their hobby. They might have shelves for displaying hundreds of models, and a professional workspace for building. If that’s not you, don’t worry; those people had to start somewhere, too. Maybe someday you’ll have your own hobby space, but in the meantime, try to focus on enjoying the hobby at your own pace.

When you’re working on projects, it’s important to be patient. Remember that there are no prizes for finishing a model in a certain amount of time. Take the time to do things right so you have a model you can enjoy for years to come.

5. Prioritize Safety

Scale modeling often involves using sharp crafting blades, hazardous glues, and even handheld tools. Make sure you always read the manual for any tools you use and be sure to wear protective equipment. Keep your hair out of your face, wear goggles, and go slowly while working with any kind of blade. Never leave tools plugged in when you’re not present, and make sure you use glues and resins in a well-ventilated area.

6. Be Comfortable

One helpful tip to improve your scale modeling experience is to make sure you’re comfortable. Working on scale models can mean hunching over your table and staring at tiny pieces of plastic for hours and hours. This sort of behavior isn’t good for your body. If you can afford it, get an adjustable worktable so you can work in the right ergonomic position. Also, get a bright desk lamp if your room doesn’t have good lighting—you’ll want the lamp to avoid straining your eyes.

There Is Such a Thing as Too Much Fun

Did you know that ignoring ergonomic advice can actually ruin your fun? If you put too much strain on your body, you might find that working on scale models is painful. Then you won’t be able to enjoy your hobby as much—or at all!

7. Protect Your Models

New hobbyists always seem to make model storage and display an afterthought. The problem is, if you don’t have a place to keep your models safe, you could end up ruining hours of work. Do yourself a favor and promptly invest in storage boxes or covered display shelves that will protect your models from dust and humidity.

8. Make Friends

Whenever you’re able, it’s a good idea to make friends with those who share an interest in your hobby. Join an official organization like the National Model Railroad Association, or meet people online through forums and social media. Having friends will give you an audience to show your work to and ask for tips on how to improve. Plus, you might be able to borrow tools from each other or work on larger projects together.

Your Imagination Is the Only Limit

If you’re ready to jump into the world of model railroading, Midwest Model Railroad has your back. We carry N scale trains, including locomotives and rolling stock. We also have a huge supply of scenery pieces, electrical wiring, track sections, and train layout construction tools. If you need it for building a model railroad, we’ve got it. And if you’re not sure how to get started, just reach out and let us help you find a kit to get you on the right track.