The post you are reporting:
I think that my interest in all things military stemmed from my love of making model kits, starting when I was very young.
As all youngsters do I started with an Airfix Spitfire and the early results were not promising resulting in something that no more than roughly represented a Spitfire. It was unpainted and there were join lines and finger marks obvious on the model. Of course in those days it would take all of ten minutes to knock a kit like that together!
It was not too long before I wanted something better, a painted model looking a bit more like the real thing. So I bought some paints and I cringe now at the thought of that glossy green and brown finish...
Naturally it was not long before I discovered the Airfix Magazine and started to realise some of the mistakes I was making. Soon I found myself cutting pieces carefully from the sprues, trimming the pieces, filling gaps, sanding and painting in more accurate matt colours.
Gradually results improved but somehow my efforts still did not look right.
One day I picked up a book by Francoise Verlinden and discovered the Verlinden Method. After some practise I gradually mastered the use of washes, dry brushing and the use of pastels to add oil stains, exhaust stains, chipped paintwork, dirt and mud.
With a little more money to spare I invested in the more expensive kits, larger scale planes in 1:48 and 1:32 scales, not to mention the massive 1:24 kits. I also because a fan of the magnificently detailed Tamiya 1:35 scale tanks. Armed with the Verlinden Method I was able to produce some brilliant results. I also started on 'super detailing' these kits and doing conversions from what was in the box. Models simply came alive with detail and action.
Life though takes over - other priorities reduce the time to do all this. Marriage, work, politics, children, not much time was left and the hobby tailed off.
It is years since I last got involved. Apart from a dabble when my boys were young to get them interested, that is.
A few weeks ago, encouraged by Paula, I decided to take it up again...
I have an ideal well lit and ventilated space in my bedroom close to a power socket just perfect for the hobby. No dust problem either though it is a bedroom, I have only a bedside mat, no carpet and I only use it to sleep - I don't even keep my clothes in the room...
So a workbench was the first purchase. On checking my old tools largely need replacing and 20 year old paints are no longer any good.
Well being in my 50's I need to do this properly. I researched on the web looking at new finishing products, new tools and new methods. I started ordering.... A 'third hand with magnifier', prepared washes, masking materials, paints, brushes, files, twist drills, etc. etc.... not to mention an airbrush and compressor...
Before I knew it I had spent over £450 and not a single model bought...
Right now I am awaiting a delivery of over £115 worth of tools and then I can start.
I have a few old models to work on that I have had years. These are not up to modern standards but are useful to practise with the new tools and get my skills back up to scratch...
Then my first project - right now I am slavering over the new Tamiya 1:32 scales Spitfire MkVIII - cost £117 but from review worth every penny, this is the ultimate Spit model.... Then I noticed there is a nice looking and massive 1:32 JU88 to follow costing only £35 it will need about £40 spent in the 'aftermarket' to get all the details right.... A bargain even so...
Has anyone else returned to an old hobby after years?