MODEL BUILDING HISTORY:
I started building model cars over 50 years ago. My first model car was a
Packard Caribbean from Ace which included a rough cut block of wood with a
side plan on it that was the body. The side plan was used to carve it to
shape. The wheels, seats, and bumpers were injection molded plastic. I
started building in earnest when the AMT/SMP annuals came out in 1958-1959.
I belonged to a model car building club in high school. At an early age I
started experimenting with using automotive lacquers on models. My model
building slowed down when I was an undergraduate and graduate student but
then took off again after that. I had a brief stint while a student where I
modeled small scale (1/72nd) WWI airplanes.
I returned to cars exclusively about 25 years ago. I make my own decals using an ALPS printer
and either Corel Draw or Adobe Photoshop. I also cast my own resin parts. I
do not build for contests but for personal satisfaction. I joined IPMS in
1997. I have a collection of unbuilt kits that is extensive. A number of
years ago I estimated that it would take more than 300 years to build all
my kits if I built 10 models a year. I stopped counting kits after that
revelation! I usually build 3-6 model cars per year. My professional life
has me traveling all over the world and I make a point of finding hobby
stores where ever I travel.