Sorry if this topic is a bit off but am looking for a bit of Xmas shopping advice? As s modelling enthusiast, what would you LOVE as a gift? Especially if you'be just gotten started with the craft?


I really am a bit clueless so I am very thankful for any advice!

well, I'd say an airbrush is the way to go.

My missus is buying me a Hold 'n Fold (photo etch bending tool), but only because I'm using more and more photo etch in my projects lately.

For a starter? Presumably you've (or the recipient of the gifts?) got the basics, like paint brushes, knives, cutters, sanders, cutting board? If not, these are always great "stocking fillers". If you want to spend a bit more, and stay with tools, yes, an airbrush is nice - but don't forget you'll need some form of propellant

I always say you can't go too wrong with a kit - particularly if you're just your average modeller like me. My family don't know too much about modelling, although my missus is cottoning onto brands and my preferances, so I normally just leave them with a vague but not too vague directive of "any model kit provided it's 1/35 and WWII - preferably German".

Is this for yourself or a friend/loved-one?

I agree with Matan. Even though it might be someone just starting out, the sooner they get used to the airbrush, the better their projects will become.

Thanks so much for your replies! I'm buying for the bf and he's been pretty active in acquiring the necessities...so he does have most of the basics...airbrush, lots of paints, lots of models of different sizes... Ebay!

I'm looking for something really cool that would make the experience better. He has some interest in building dioramas and also has been doing a lot of reading on photoetching at home. This hold n' fold thing sounds very interesting and seems to have good reviews. I'll look into it!

Would love more ideas!
thanks so much!

yep, but giving some one a can of AB propellant or compressor is not very "chrsitmasy" is it?

Anyway, a hold n' fold is a great gift too. which scale does he like? if it's 1:35 i'd say the 5" speed will do the trick

Sounds like you've been paying attention to his hobby! How about a nice digital camera so he can share his work here? Just a thought....

For Christmas, build one with him..... Or just get the kit he has longed for.


Herky

I agree with Jeremy, I would LOVE it if somebody in the family would want to build a kit with me. Maybe get two of the same kit and build it together.

Really? I always thought modelling was kind of a solitary thing? Or maybe that's just him..hehe..I'm a bit of a clutz

What type of hold n fold would be good for 1/72 scale? I think he also has some 1/35 scale as well..so something that is versatile would be good!

thanks so much! i hope you all get what you want under the tree too!

I've been thinking for about 20 minutes, trying to come up with something I use all the time, that makes my life easier, but is not totally obvious or basic or super expensive.

Paint Caddy - Having paint bottles flying around everywhere makes for lots of clutter and frustration. A paint caddy keeps all those paints organized and easily accessible. Some examples:

http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=VAT10080
http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=VAT10040

A magnification lamp on a swing arm - Eyes get tired when working on and painting the small stuff. A magnification lamp illuminates work and magnifies it, allowing for better control and less eye stain without looking like a complete geek.

Optivisor - This serves the same function as the magnification lamp but offers more flexibility and magnification at the price of looking like a complete idiot while using it. A good hobby shop will carry these.

Dremel - He may already have one, but if not, it is such a great tool to have. Further, there are a bazillion attachments for it, so it becomes a gift generator. If he already has a Dremel, the drill press jig is a great upgrade.

Storage - It may seem silly, but just having a bunch of small drawers to stick stuff in makes the life of a modeler way easier. I am talking about the kind of thing you find in the hardware section to store screws, nuts, bolts, etc. The stackable kind with about 30 drawers work great.

Testor's Decal System - It costs about $10US and opens the door to a whole new area of modeling. Custom decals are way cool. Any decent hobby shop should sell it.

Good luck!

-Doug

my brother gets me a gift certificate to the local hobby shop . it works for me for those impulse purchases that i dont want to wait for the time it takes for shipping from an online store .

Aww! Thanks Doug! I was just watching what 20 minutes is like in modelling time..it is about two wheels! This hobby is really time intensive..you guys are all amazing! Those are great ideas with stocking stuffer potential! Oh and I dig gift certificates too!

I think I know what I'm going to do now, but I'm sure there are many other clueless gals out there just like me who will benefit! Thanks so much for taking time to reply

Happy Holidays!
LiLi

Another idea, referance. Books/D.V.D.'s How to books are good too.