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Model Makers Toolbox

11. Circle Template: This handy devise is used to make painting wheels and road wheels easier. Paint the entire wheel flat black or dark gray and the find a circle that fits the hub. Mask off the surrounding holes with ordinary masking tape and then spray the hub the color you need.

12. Cups: Use small disposable cups for holding small parts during assembly and afterwards, for holding the water necessary to apply decals to the kit. Another cheap source for cups is the bottoms of small plastic soda containers. Just cut off the bottom 2" and a handy cup is formed.

13. Toothbrushes: Old toothbrushes are good for scrubbing off parts. After sanding or filing, plastic dust accumulates in the cracks and crevices and a toothbrush can clean out these grooves. Also shown are toothpicks that are used to apply small amounts of glue, paint, putty or used to assist in digging out the dust from the cracks.

14. Super Glue: Super glue is used to quickly attach parts or to attach metal or resin parts to a model. An inexpensive applicator is made from an ordinary sewing needle stuck to the end of a piece of sprue. Clip off the end of the eye of the needle and a small "U" is formed that will hold a drop of super glue. Drill a hole into the end of the sprue or heat the sharp end of the needle (hold needle with pliers) and stick it into the end of the sprue. The opposite end of the sprue can be heated and formed into a shape that will keep the tool from rolling off the table.

15. References: Once you've accumulated a large amount of references, filing them into binders helps keep them organized. One of my favorite quick references is the Squadron Signal "In Action" series that covers aircraft, armor, ships and soldiers. I place them in clear vinyl document protectors and into 3" binders, some labeling on the spines and they are efficiently organized.

16. Armorama.com: The site no model maker should go without.
(Editors Note: Rob left this one out. I am sure it was just an oversight! - Jim)
 
Of course there are many more tools you can have in your toolkit, but these basic, moneysaving, and timesaving tools are certainly a must for anyone starting out in the hobby. Good luck with your next project!