Are my models defining what kind of modeler I am? Do the techniques I use
determine my model making as better than somebody else’s? It is true that
upgrading model kits with parts made by myself may give a better final result
that if I'd make a model basing on kit parts only. Sometimes a similar effect
can be obtained with aid of aftermarket resin or photoetched parts dedicated
for a particular plastic kit. Use of such elements allow even less skilled - or
more impatient modelers, to provide their miniatures with high level of detail.
Although building a model from scratch, with use of my own materials and tools
requires much more work, it can be however the only way to build an object
which yet hasn't been released as a kit. Many factors decide on how to judge
models built out of box, upgraded with aftermarket kits, or scratch
built. The first one is: what I expect of myself, second is: what I regard my
hobby as, and finally: why I build my models. Let’s think about it. Am I
satisfied with a model build over one evening, or rather I spend hundreds of
hours to gather reference materials, to familiarize with every detail of full
size object, so I can finally build a faithful replica in scale? If so, then it
means model making isn’t only a pastime to me. I regard it as a way to perfection
for my attitudes such as strong will, patience and composure. Furthermore a
combination of the above motives drives me to compare my models with other
modelers or even to compete with them. This competition leads to the
question asked in the beginning. Is my modelmaking better than others'? It
mostly depends with whose models I compare my miniatures.
If I try to compare my replicas with models made by beginning modelers or those who are more interested in building their collection of models instead of building replicas in scale, then I can’t find satisfaction in such comparison. Surely it won’t give me prestige. Contrarily it may only discourage others from model making or even make them find me snobbish. Even if I build champion models, I can regard myself as master modeler only if I win with other master modelers. Moreover creating super-detailed replicas does not authorize me to dictate my approach to model making. The fact that I prefer to build from scratch – which I strongly recommend in this blog – does not mean that my model making is the best. If however my aim is to win a prestigious award in a world class model competition, then I will surely do my best to create an outstanding masterpiece, so when I put it among other master models – it won’t bring me shame.
