A bit of Modeller's Philosophy
Learning new techniques. Railway Modelling covers a broad range of skills. Everything from carpentry to micro-engineering and fine art.
Through the progression of a model, say a locomotive, we start with a bunch of raw (or reasonably raw) materials, such as brass, whitemetal, nickel silver, resins and urethanes. To turn these materials into our model, we must use skills that we learn through books, the internet, videos, and demonstrations by fellow modellers. But the most important part is that we learn these skills.
Through my odyssey of manufacturing a limited run locomotive (Burra) I have had to learn to draw etch artwork, detail part mastering (for casting), drivetrain design, i've had to learn how wheels and track interact so I can specify the profile of wheel that best suits the standards in use, I've been learning about the properties of different metals so I know what each part should be made out of...
Once I have the design problems sorted, I have to put them together
learn finishing techniques, I have painted 3 locos and about 20 wagons so far, but I want the finish to be exquisite. I need to know which paints suit my process, what part of my painting process should be adjusted or changed, I need to know how different paints react to different materials...
Then the weathering. I know I could supply the models unweathered, and for those customers who want theirs unweathered thats how they'll get them, but at least for my own use, I want to have very subtle weathering that accentuates the details as required yet doesn't overwhelm the viewer.
I really wanted to have a loco driver figure to suit the loco. I found one person wwilling to carve a master for me, but the price was a bit much, and I am trying to keep the price of this venture down. Whilst I could ligitmately charge practically any price I feel like since its a hand built run of 10 models, I have several friends who want to add the model to their collection and I don't want to price them out. So I have started learning how to carve figures. I have the basic torso and limbs sculpted, but I haven't taken the time to add clothing or texture and details.
Once the models are actually built, I have to work out packaging. I would really like a wooden presentation box, but I can't imagine finding a suitable box on the market, so I will most likely have to relearn my woodworking skills I haven't used for 6 years. At least 10 fairly small boxes shouldn't be too taxing on my skills or tools.
Where am I going with all this?
Through building a model (or ten) I am learning
and relearning skills I never dreamed I would try.
Maybe, I will find one particular skill so enjoyable I could then
make it a hobby in itself, figure sculpting or cabinet making (the
boxes) for example
I love learning new skills, it extends my capabilities, challenges me, and keeps me interested in this hobby. It would be a boring world if we all knew everything!
And for no reason what so ever, here are a few photos
any comments?
Email me: trainbrain @ optusnet . com . au
(remove spaces from address before sending)
Mark Kendrick 10/5/05