Model Forum / General / Models / March 2006

It depends on what you want.  I am a modeler not an artist.  I build
for my own enjoyment not professionally or for competition.  If you
compare yourself against the pros and artists you will probably never
be satisfied with your results.  If you look at the completed project
and feel a sense of accomplishment, satisfaction, or just smile, you
are there (:>

It REALLY depends on your personal interest in the hobby and your
commitment to improve.  I've seen some folks turn out first-rate models
on their second or third try.  I've also seen a couple long-time
modelers build kits like they did as a kid (e.g. unfilled seams,
hand-brushed finish with major brush marks).  I've concluded that the
main thing is to figure out where you want your skills to be and work
to get there.  But more importantly, ENJOY THE HOBBY!  If you're not
having fun, then you should probably try a different hobby.  No sense
in wasting the precious time you have on this Earth with something you
don't enjoy doing, especially when you have the choice!

Personally, I've found that being involved with IPMS for the past
couple of years has really motivated me to actually BUILD models and
set goals for where I want to improve my skills.

Martin

Well that add me to that list. I'm not a competitive type of person. I
just like to be have fun doing this. In fact, after having greatly
improved in skill especially in the body finish department, I'd say I'm
pretty proud of myself for this. Although I admit that my skill in fine
detailing leaves a lot to be desired. I use the airbrush whenever I can
but that's just child's play. I try to master my skill in using the
finer brushes on small parts as much as possible. I still experience
paint runs and I still can't get the thinner to paint mixing right yet.

Well I don't plan on joining contests sometime in the future but of
course, it would be good to have my skill improve as I keep going. :)