Global Scale Modeller

Fourth in a series of threads exploring modelling subjects, interests, tools and equipment while learning about each other

Is modelling a dying hobby…are we dinosaurs?



1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?
5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?

Twokidsnosleep wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 6:06 am Fourth in a series of threads exploring modelling subjects, interests, tools and equipment while learning about each other

Is modelling a dying hobby…are we dinosaurs?



1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?
5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?

Should just pass these questions on a to a podcast they could build a entire show out of this controversy...

Bandai would disagree that modeling is dying and if it is why are there so many new companies springing up.
We are in the golden age, never have so few had so many choices and owed so much to the the master modelers of yesterday.
I used to be super embarrassed and never discussed it except amongst some close friends of the wife. She would bring the subject up and her friend would politely ask about it. After she did this a few times I got cheeky and started talking about what I was doing to see how long it would take before their eyes glazed over......not long actually.
You get all types in life as in modeling, but I think the ones who spend a lot of time being a "EXPERT'' like to be right and to be recognized as such. One of the podcasts refer to them as gate keepers and they want to be respected and nothing to change and too be the same way they have done things for 50yrs and anything less is sacrilege. Nobody picks on the figure modelers though it's hard to be good with figures.
Personality types ....I don't know I don't know enough really well to make that call. I grew up as a reclusive, introvert that I've had to work at. I can thank my ex wife for the change I experienced and now I make it a thing to talk about whatever to who ever if they want to know or have a serious conversation. No good bottling crap up.

I absolutely love these Question and Answer posts your putting up on here

As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden? Not sure about Golden ages, was their ever a Golden age? I honestly think this is the Golden age. Resin, Aftermarket, 3-D Printers, New companies pushing envelopes of design and technology. When I started modelling their was a very damaged tube of Humbrol Cement Glue that split and stuck on me, plastic, table and anything I touched. Now..........Holy Moly!, the amounts of different Glues is Jaw Dropping Paints and paint technology, Humbrol enamels were my first paints and now............ I just looked on Emodels website and saw the new (Pre-Order Border Models Lancaster Bomber. £500 Its beautiful in design, technology. The work that's gone into research and manufacture is amazing.
3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model? I don't tell "People" about my hobby. Not ashamed or secretive, just cannot be bothered with explaining the Art. It is an Art Is it Cool? Not sure it is, but to us Happy Brotherhood, it really is.
4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ? I don't have any other hobbies so at a loss to explain this. Its Humans. We all have views on subjects. Some are louder in protest and wain into vitriol about their views, but isn't that life
5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers? I do think we are deep thinkers, even dare I say, slightly OCD, I also think, I suppose I'm talking about myself now, enjoying of our own company. Its not a Team hobby, its very individual. On a jokier side......my knees are knackered from scrabbling around on floor with Carpet Monster. My eyes are equally knackered from peering at impossibly small PE that I wish I had not bought.
I love this hobby though and I love the fact that this Forum gets me and gets the Hobby.
Long reign ISM and God bless you all
DW

digger303 wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 10:54 am Bandai would disagree that modeling is dying and if it is why are there so many new companies springing up.
We are in the golden age, never have so few had so many choices and owed so much to the the master modelers of yesterday.
I used to be super embarrassed and never discussed it except amongst some close friends of the wife. She would bring the subject up and her friend would politely ask about it. After she did this a few times I got cheeky and started talking about what I was doing to see how long it would take before their eyes glazed over......not long actually.
You get all types in life as in modeling, but I think the ones who spend a lot of time being a "EXPERT'' like to be right and to be recognized as such. One of the podcasts refer to them as gate keepers and they want to be respected and nothing to change and too be the same way they have done things for 50yrs and anything less is sacrilege. Nobody picks on the figure modelers though it's hard to be good with figures.
Personality types ....I don't know I don't know enough really well to make that call. I grew up as a reclusive, introvert that I've had to work at. I can thank my ex wife for the change I experienced and now I make it a thing to talk about whatever to who ever if they want to know or have a serious conversation. No good bottling crap up.

Bang on Digger, bang on
DW

Donkeywalloper wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 12:05 pm

digger303 wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 10:54 am Bandai would disagree that modeling is dying and if it is why are there so many new companies springing up.
We are in the golden age, never have so few had so many choices and owed so much to the the master modelers of yesterday.
I used to be super embarrassed and never discussed it except amongst some close friends of the wife. She would bring the subject up and her friend would politely ask about it. After she did this a few times I got cheeky and started talking about what I was doing to see how long it would take before their eyes glazed over......not long actually.
You get all types in life as in modeling, but I think the ones who spend a lot of time being a "EXPERT'' like to be right and to be recognized as such. One of the podcasts refer to them as gate keepers and they want to be respected and nothing to change and too be the same way they have done things for 50yrs and anything less is sacrilege. Nobody picks on the figure modelers though it's hard to be good with figures.
Personality types ....I don't know I don't know enough really well to make that call. I grew up as a reclusive, introvert that I've had to work at. I can thank my ex wife for the change I experienced and now I make it a thing to talk about whatever to who ever if they want to know or have a serious conversation. No good bottling crap up.

Bang on Digger, bang on
DW

I like both of your comments and thank you for participating and hope you are enjoying this
Great to get insight on other's thinking
Digger, the radio podcasters themselves (we know of whom we speak) are super arrogant about their fame, edgy style and in your face discussion style. They want change to make themselves a name IMHO and I have had to leave their FB group last year b/c of it. When you start criticizing and tearing apart other's work in your closed FB site and claim it is open game since the guy posted it to the internet...ya that is jerky. I would like to see a more open, helpful and accepting modelling world and hope that is what we do on the Forum. We all play with plastic toys for crying out loud.

Twokidsnosleep wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 6:06 am Fourth in a series of threads exploring modelling subjects, interests, tools and equipment while learning about each other

1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?
5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?

Hmm, interesting round or ?'s this Friday, Mr. Scott!

A couple of these I have pondered in the past and a couple hadn't really thought about before...

To, sorta, answer the first two ?'s. I do think we may be a dying breed - although there are more options than ever before. My kids (24, and 21 males) both think it's cool that I model and I have done kits for them in the last few years, but not sure they will ever be motivated to pick up the hobby... which kinda makes me sad a bit. My oldest has mild anxiety issues and honestly feel that a form of model-building would actually help him. (and yes, we've talked about it in the past - he does have his own form of stress release and it works well for him). I agree that the golden age is pretty much now, technology is just too good right now - so much choice and selection right now. Love it!!

I'll tell anyone and everyone that I build models, and I think it's cool as hell!! I also play games (board and video games), as well as sim-race and am on a pretty competitive sim-racing team. We race in iRacing and do all the endurance races (ie., Daytona 24, LeMans, etc...), but I definitely tell people I build models. Some think it's dumb or lame, but the vast majority think it's cool and want to see the "builds".

I haven't really experienced the division and animosity in model building - there are assholes in every facet of life though (I race R/C cars, and while most are great - there are some HUGE buttheads that race R/C...)

Not sure about #5... I think maybe detail-oriented and traits like that are typical of modellers... don't know if there is a specific "thing" that would describe a person who models.

Have a great weekend guys!!

Twokidsnosleep wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 6:06 am Fourth in a series of threads exploring modelling subjects, interests, tools and equipment while learning about each other

Is modelling a dying hobby…are we dinosaurs?



1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?
5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?

I liked Diggers response but to add my tuppence worth:

1) Are we a dying breed - I think the answer to that lies in the sheer number of new kits being released yearly. Its a business and no one invests that amount of money is a dying business. Will others pick up the hobby - who knows? The more we as modellers make the hobby known, though, the greater the chance new ones dill be enticed in.

2) The "golden age" is either now - or yet to come... 3D/Resin printers are becoming affordable now. Once to software becomes "modeller proof" it will boom. Quite possibly we will see manufacturers selling print files rather than actual kits in years to come!!

3) I always tell people what I do for my hobbies - why not? As for "cool" - who cares, its MY choice.

4) Division & animosity comes from people being people unfortunately. There is always going to be a small % who think they are right & everyone else is wrong. And yes it crops up in every hobby. I usually take great delight when being told my Landrover FFR is wrong, they NEVER looked like that in service by promptly showing the complainer photos of the vehicles I used in service.....

5) Are there typical personality traits? Other than an obsessive attention to detail - not really

1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?

First, we are not a dying breed, just transitioning. If you talk to somebody who was modeling in the 1950's, 1970's or today, each one would say that what they did or do is nothing like it is today. I bring that up because there are a great number of builders still in the Bandai robotics, war gamers, and still very strong with figures. There is no doubt that there are more things out there to stimulate our youth such as video games, but I think our hobby will evolve. As for transitioning in later life, I never did transition. I began modeling when I was around 8 and have never stopped. Because of that I am not sure if I will answer this part of the question correctly, but for the same reasoning I mentioned above, I think we already have some growing groups in those areas. I thing we staid true to what we started with in modeling, but if you look at those areas or even radio control, they have been there all a long and will grow. The industry will cater to the subjects that young modelers or gamers will grow with. Much like the stick and paper modelers of the 40-50 grew into plastics and like we have seen our share of industry change, the future of modeling is already here and ever expanding (3d printers, resin modeling, etc.)

2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?

I think this is limited to ones perspective of the hobby. It would be hard to argue or debate that right now is not the golden age of modeling. When you look at the number of manufacturers, subject matter, after-market industry, 3d printing, custom decal printing, etc., I cannot see a time in the last 50 years when modeling had had more choices, mediums, etc. With that said, who knows what the next 50 years will bring?

3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?

It depends on the individuals. Do all shooters talk to everyone about firearms?; do all wood workers talk to everyone about this latest wood masterpiece?, and for the same reason, I share my modeling with those that show an interest in it. Much like the modeling itself, the topic and discussion of modeling has its own language, passion, and skill set. If you are not interested or intrigued, then normally I do not.

4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modeling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?

Depending on there hobby there definitely some strong opinions or even personalities involved and that can be seen in just about anything in life. I believe that depending on your maturity, upbringing, competitiveness, passion for a hobby, or many other influences, each person will have a thought, comment, or judgment on a subject that may or may not be shared by somebody else. While in some rare instances it can cause "issues", I also think most of the time it is part of what makes our modeling as a hobby the pleasure that it is.

5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?

Its already been said... massive attention to detail; the ability to process through written and pictorial instruction (that is not a given with people); a passion like in may forms of art, there is a passion in modeling; most everyone who builds enjoys the challenges a build brings while at the same time they are in a zen moment when building and think modeling is therapeutic.

Ben

Wow Barry, Neil and Ben

Some fantastic answers and thoughtful insight. I am really impressed guys
No right or wrong answers to any questions just our opinions. Everyone has had some amazing input. wow
DW I hope you are enjoying this as much as I am

Twokidsnosleep wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 5:38 pm

Donkeywalloper wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 12:05 pm

digger303 wrote: Fri Oct 15, 2021 10:54 am Bandai would disagree that modeling is dying and if it is why are there so many new companies springing up.
We are in the golden age, never have so few had so many choices and owed so much to the the master modelers of yesterday.
I used to be super embarrassed and never discussed it except amongst some close friends of the wife. She would bring the subject up and her friend would politely ask about it. After she did this a few times I got cheeky and started talking about what I was doing to see how long it would take before their eyes glazed over......not long actually.
You get all types in life as in modeling, but I think the ones who spend a lot of time being a "EXPERT'' like to be right and to be recognized as such. One of the podcasts refer to them as gate keepers and they want to be respected and nothing to change and too be the same way they have done things for 50yrs and anything less is sacrilege. Nobody picks on the figure modelers though it's hard to be good with figures.
Personality types ....I don't know I don't know enough really well to make that call. I grew up as a reclusive, introvert that I've had to work at. I can thank my ex wife for the change I experienced and now I make it a thing to talk about whatever to who ever if they want to know or have a serious conversation. No good bottling crap up.

Bang on Digger, bang on
DW

I like both of your comments and thank you for participating and hope you are enjoying this
Great to get insight on other's thinking
Digger, the radio podcasters themselves (we know of whom we speak) are super arrogant about their fame, edgy style and in your face discussion style. They want change to make themselves a name IMHO and I have had to leave their FB group last year b/c of it. When you start criticizing and tearing apart other's work in your closed FB site and claim it is open game since the guy posted it to the internet...ya that is jerky. I would like to see a more open, helpful and accepting modelling world and hope that is what we do on the Forum. We all play with plastic toys for crying out loud.

I listen to about 6 different podcasts, I suspect I know which one your talking about, but not 100 % sure. I listen to the podcast, but don't frequent any of those facebook pages. So I have no idea what is said on those pages. There is a couple of podcasts I don't listen to much mainly cause I don't like their style and don't find it that enjoyable and I do applaud your aim of a more helpful and accepting modelling world. I enjoy being part of that world.
There is one FB group that critiques work and the group is built around that. There are nice ways to convey that and nasty ways, But it does have the lofty aim to help people raise their modeling standards. Not everyone wants that and that's cool so you wouldn't join that group I guess.

I just wrote a dissertation on this; but, it was lost... So, I'll try to reiterate, a bit more briefly this time.

1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?

I joined ISM in 2016 when I was 26. At that point in time I wanted to find a hobby to take my mind off work. I had built kits as a kid, though, I wanted to get really good at something and not spend my weekends partying at the local bar. I'm an early adopter to get back into the hobby. My peers all have built a kit in their mid 20's (think a Christmas present) and I do see them getting into it once they retire. This is specific to what I call 'traditional' modelling, that being planes, ships, tanks and cars.

Miniature modelling has exploded in the last 5 years. It is astounding. There are a TON of people getting into miniature modelling and I do see them expanding into more 'traditional' modelling eventually.

Are we a dying breed? I would say no, the changing of the guard is 5-15 years off I think. Though the scene might change to being very Gunpla heavy, more Vietnam vice WWII/WWI kits and the more modern stuff the newer generation has seen and has interest in. Think Iraq/Afghanistan/Syria vets modelling more modern US/UK/RUS armor and jets. Though, when the WWII centennial comes around, look out, we will have the best WWII kits ever produced.

2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?

I think we're passed a golden age and into a platinum age. More than ever we have great kits with great engineering, and somewhat affordable costs for what you get. Gunpla has taken off and Bandai's ever expanding range is evident of that.

In the miniature modelling world, it is insane. In 2016 Games Workshop -the Warhammer people- posted a 118.07m GBP profit. In 2021 they posted 353.2m GBP profit. That is incredible. This trend was already on the rise even before COVID-19.
link

With the advent of 3d printing, it gets even better. A bit to RangerNeil's point, we are now seeing Kickstarter's that are only for .stl 3d files for models. I believe that trend will continue as 3d printing becomes cheaper and more user friendly.

I've already seen a few examples of '3d modelling kits' which are a 3d resin printer that comes with .stl files. Basically, you buy the 'kit' and print your own model to start with. I don't think we'll see that in stores for a long time; but, the start of it is already present on the internet.

I'm excited to see where this all goes. Though, companies like Games Workshop have already started doing some legal action to protect their IP from home printers. In the miniature world, home print of proxy units is generally looked down upon, though it is encouraged if you want to add your own flavor to your army. I.e., different bits attached to your units. Their tournament rules are pretty harsh and require you to use only their stuff if you're in one of their tournaments or playing in their stores with few exceptions.

3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?

Yes, if they ask me about what I did on the weekend. I'm from a community with a lot of self deprecating humor, so I usually answer with, "Because I'm a nerd, I painted the prop on a F4U Corsair in VF-17 Jolly Roger markings." This generally elicits a couple of questions and about a 2-5 minute conversation before we move on to other topics. If anyone ever asks to see my work they are generally very impressed.

Is it 'cool'? Eh, my peers come from a very wide background with a lot of interests. It's more of a interesting dive into what we all do, rather than a "you ain't cool because you drive a Prius" type of thing.

4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?

Tryhards who never did anything do that. It's silly. Or, they have been their and done that and based their entire personality on one small achievement in their lives. They could also just be jerks.

I think that some people are drawn to arguments. I am not, that's why I'm here. We have cultivated a good forum community; I really like it. I don't have time for some rivet counter to tell me how my F/A-18F model is wrong. Most of these guys have never seen some of the subject models in their lives.

It does take place in other hobbies. I just try to avoid those groups.

5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?

In my locality, older, vet, really likes car models.

In the world? I don't know. Every place is different.

I've just restarted the hobby this year, but I did start when I was about 5.

I think this is the golden age - as others have said, we have so much choice, so many after-market detail bits, the internet is full of reference photos, forums and videos of models, and how to build tururials. For those who build, this is it. Are other people getting into the hobby - or has video games and social media - ugh, I just deleted my facebook account - taken over? That I dont know. I also do sim racing, and have many other interests. Kids and teenagers and are easily distracted by a screen and what other people think of their latest post, so I think the younger kids, those without a phone, might get into it if guided right, but a teenager, well, depends . . . i see a lot of different ages in the LHS, and enjoy it when I see a young kid getting excited over his parent helping them choose a model. Reminds me of what I was like. And the guys working at the shop, they are 20 year olds and are really into it. I learn so much about products from them.

If I talk to anyone I dont feel ashamed to mention building, its me, so if they are or are not interested I will direct the conversation accordingly - people are easy to steer, just ask them what they are interested it and sit back, you wont have to say a word for hours. I like this hobby, and will talk about it here, with others who appreciate it. And judging by the number of view some builds get, there are a LOT of people interested int it.

I would like others to see my models in real life, and talk about it then, perhaps direct some of the youngsters - my son is 9 - his friends etc, into the art / hobby. I actually got back into it by seeing some of my brothers models he has recently made. We both modelled a lot as kids, nowt again as 50 year olds.

Regards to division and animosity - never encountered it in modelling - but people are people, so I guess it must exist, dont get me started.

We are not dinosaurs, but experienced craftspeople, doing what we love and de-stressing in our own way, in an era where we are catered for like never before. If we were going extinct, so would the companies that make the products we use, and they are not. There are more than ever.

Thanks for allowing us to talk about ourselves a bit.

So now I will have a go. Such thoughtful comments from all of you guys, I am really impressed

1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
Others stated how change is coming with examples like gamers and Gundam. Us old car, tank and plane builders might be dying out, but there will always be nostalgia builders. The idea of younger modellers forming as they age and cross over into modelling from gaming and even making subjects from video games, movie characters etc…likely the 3D printing and selling of the printing files or maybe even another new technology. Such a wide array of potential topics and subjects

2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
Doesn’t every generation wax poetic about the passing of golden ages? I love the idea of Platinum age of modelling. Internet, photo etch, 3D prints, slide styrene moulding, airbrushing, specialty tools ….on and on. This is an amazing time for the hobby and the gateway to it is literally at our finger tips

3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
I am pretty quiet about my hobbies and don’t reveal much to patients about it unless they ask or are into it already. Modelling is seen as very nerdy IMHO..but who cares. I would rather spend my time and money making something myself that I can be proud of rather than drinking or eating or snorting it up my nose.

4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?
Ya you guys nailed this as human nature. I have left numerous sites in the past for cliques, squabbles and rude or ignorant comments, including a professional site for work. Forum here is geared to encourage and help period. You wanna know, we will help you out if we can. No famous name makers, no egomaniacs, no attacking posts.

5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?
So again many identified OCD already. I would add a tendency to introverted. I know I escaped into modelling as a teen and do it again to de stress from work. Imaginative, attention to detail, fine motor skilled…these also can be said

Post away your thoughts if you haven’t already and welcome more comments
This has been a good set of answers from everyone

1. As modelers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?

I think modeling was just another thing kids did when I was young since we didn't have video games etc. Now that kit prices are expensive, compared to back then, it's become an adult hobby I think. Who knows where modeling will go? What happens if it does disappear? I personally think it will eventually shift to 3D printing your own models out.

2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?

Was modeling ever any bigger than it is today? There are definitely more resources available to modelers, in every way, than ever before. That's probably due to the hobby shifting into the adult population that has more money available.

3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?

I don't wear it on my shoulder, but I don't hide it either. I don't think it's any more or less cool than any other hobby.

4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?

Some people are just butt heads. I don't have to be around them.

5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modelers?

I really don't think you could grab a modeler out of a crowd and say this person will definitely exhibit these traits (other than maybe being glue sniffers ).

1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?

There's hope for the hobby. As long as people are connected to the world around them. If they love history, or motor sport, for example, Its only a small jump to wanting to have something in your hands that solidifies that love. Add that to parental influence where we see the hobby being passed from generation to generation and we will continue to see the hobby in whatever iteration technology and access brings to it.

2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?

The internet has exploded the hobby for me so I think we are in a golden age right now. New manufacturers, new hardware, the wealth of aftermarket stuff, online retailers with massive inventories. Forums like this which massively increase my enjoyment of the hobby. What has passed is the golden age of the non-franchised model shop. Very few are left and that really is the tragic passing of an age.

3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?

My friends know I build kits, hell, I post them on Facebook so I know they know. I dont lead with it when introducing myself but I'm not shy about it. Anyone who thinks the hobby sucks is not really the kind of person I want to hang around with anyway, so no loss.

4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?

I think this can be over-stated. There's A-holes in every strata of society, small minded, insecure and petty people. Maybe modelling attracts the petty because it can be a detail orientated hobby and there are those who refuse to compromise on detail. Add that to a an unwillingness to accept anyone else's process as being better than yours and you're just one key stroke away from letting the keyboard beast out of his Mum's basement.

5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?

Being happy in one's own company. Patience. An interest in world events and history, particularly those modelers who build historical subjects - its all about context for me.

Also, romantics and hero worshippers AND conversely, analyticals and detail lovers. It just shows the hobby attracts all sorts of people.

Some superb commentary there @Stokesy44
Nicely done David and Happy Birthday again

Twokidsnosleep wrote: Sun Oct 17, 2021 4:21 pm Some superb commentary there
Nicely done David and Happy Birthday again

Thanks Scott. A nice day was had, culminating in a few cold ones at my niece's long delayed wedding reception.

Late to the party but here are my thoughts...
1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
It's great to see that there is still quite a range of ages involved even just on the forum, although the general feeling I get is that the majority of us are 50+ and returning to a hobby we had back in the 60/70s - and a lot of kits are now priced at that market. As Stokesy said I think there will always be a new generation to pick up the baton as long as their interests in history, technology, engineering can be stoked. From a personal perspective I have no children or younger friends to pass my interest onto so I may need to leave my stash to medical science.
2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
I think each passing age is seen as a golden age when compared to what went before. The quality of the kits (mostly) improved with each passing decade and the availability of paints & accessories expanded likewise as the demand was recognised for high quality add-ons that weren't just bodged together from leftover household items. I think the reference to a platinum age with the advent of 3d printing is spot on though.
3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
It depends who I'm talking to - most of my friends know what I do in my spare time, and why I do it. I spend most of my day locked to a computer so needed something creative to do when I was away from that. Is it "cool" - who cares. Never mock another man's (or woman's) hobby as it may be all that's keeping him sane
4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?
Sadly as others have already touched on this is just human nature. While the majority of us are just happy to do what we want and accept that other people have different outlooks there are, and always have been, those who "know" they are right and will argue the point to death. I think the difference these days is that the internet & especially social media has given these evangelists a voice & platform that they've not had previously and as such we're more exposed to their ranting. And no this isn't just isolated to modelling, it's prevalent in just about every aspect of life (hobby or otherwise).


Edit: I also think that many of those people who do have the knack of being able to offer constructive criticism without being a jerk about it have unfortunately been tarred with the same brush as the self-declared experts and as a result we may have lost valuable experience/advice from the community in general - which is actually shame. You know who I mean right? The kindly uncle/grandpa type character who could show you a different way of doing something without making you feel like an idiot?
5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?
Aside from the fact that the vast majority still appear to be male? Just in our small cross-section we have everything from Canadian dentists to Australian farmers so the hobby obviously attracts people from all walks of life, but we're all happy with our own company at least for a few hours each week and all like to be creative.

1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
I do feel like us "older" modelers are a dying breed. However, With today's technology the new generation of modelers has more and more access to other modelers. When I was growing up there might have been 1 or 2 other kids that I knew that did models. Kids nowadays has entire communities to draw inspiration from.

2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
I believe this is the golden age. Many choices. Quality paints and other supplies. I can remember having one choice, Testors enamel and nail clippers and a file.

3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
I tell people every chance I get. I can easily show them my collection with pictures from my phone. Any doubters are blown away when they realize its not just "model cars" anymore.

4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies ?
People just have to be different and jealousy is a big part of the animosity. ALL of my hobbies have the same division. Youeither aren't professional enough or you take it too serious and have a problem.

5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?
I really cant answer this. I am an introvert so I keep to myself mostly. But I know all modelers aren't introverts.

Good stuff everyone, keep the responses coming
Really so interesting to read everyones take on these topics

Are you ready for tomorrow's question???
It will be a Doosey

Oh man!

I knew you were buttering us up for something!

BigWall wrote: Fri Oct 22, 2021 3:55 am Oh man!

I knew you were buttering us up for something!

Twokidsnosleep wrote: Thu Oct 21, 2021 6:25 pm Good stuff everyone, keep the responses coming
Really so interesting to read everyones take on these topics

Are you ready for tomorrow's question???
It will be a Doosey

What ya doing researching a book....

1. As modellers, are we a dying breed. Will other generations pick up modelling like we did later in life ?
I don't think so, it's a bit like fishing we do it, we stop due to life pressures, we start again, the lucky one's never stop. Modelling also provides achievement and promotes creativity, something computer games don't. I recently got back into trains (Neil ) and introduced Scalextrics to my boys (men) again. We used to play it for hours when they were kids, they moved away from it and got into computer F1 and football games. Now they can't wait to get back on the Scalextrics track, it's real not virtual, they're hooked.

2. Has the golden age of modelling passed? If passed, when was it? If not, why is now golden?
I don't think so, just look at the kits being introduced, what's changed is choice, Airfix and Revell can no longer push out crap kits, although they still try

3. Do you tell people of your hobby or keep it quiet? Is it ‘cool’ to model?
It's not a talking point as such, but it's the same for fishing ,which is I believe still the biggest hobby/sport in the UK by a country mile. Same with stream trains, what kid or bloke/woman doesn't like them? We nearly all stand in amazement when we see one

4. Why is there so much division and animosity in modelling …do you see that in your other hobbies?
Sadly it's part of human nature, some just feel they know best and try and impose their will on others, mostly those with too much time on their hands or empty lives. Yes it happens with all hobbies/clubs, I've been driven away by them in motorcycle and diving clubs over the years. Can't be bothered with the confrontation, hassel, ill feeling, life's too short

5. Are there certain personality traits that typify modellers?
Only the types who cause all the issues It would also be nice to see more ladies in the hobby, they're there but I think get put off by the types mentioned in question 4

We all hear the doom mongers pontificating about the hobby dying out when a certain generation passes on.
It won't die out but it will morph.

It's not a pocket money hobby any more, what with the price of a kit and all the after market stuff that is available and almost deemed necessary. Besides the mainstream plastic kit manufacturers we have seen the rise of some really specialist manufacturers.

One only has to look at the MFH kits being sold by Hiroboy to the Auto Modelling market to see what way it is going and by catering for a niche market who spend big bucks for their limited run multi medium kits.

There have also been spectacular manufacturer disasters along the way.
Wing Nut Wings is an example as they were trying to cater for a very niche market with larger scale WW1 aircraft kits that were injection moulded with all the inherent development, tooling and marketing costs. Modellers waxed lyrical over their kits, and they were appearing to do well when we saw their kits selling like hotcakes at SMW Telford and probably the US Nats. The truth is it was too much of a small niche market to be sustained as there was a ceiling to what they could realistically charge for the kits.

Zokei Mura seem to have got it right as a smaller manufacturer and their kits have more market appeal as subjects.
The hobby will keep going and mainstream manufacturers still invest in kits that appeal.

Good answers both of you

I like the comment comparing modelling to video games. There is far more achievement, creativity and accomplishment with modelling. I don’t waste my time on the games anymore

WNW was a very successful niche producer. It fell apart not due to lack of interest, other than from the owner, but due to mis management and poor business practices.They were making money, it just wasn’t being funnelled the right directions by the right people and owners having vested interest watching what was going on. I have no sympathies for sir Peter Jackson and his money losses. He is a disinterested slob who screwed over many hard designers and workers