Friday, December 28, 2012


FREE PAPER MODELS

 

Not too many years ago I re-discovered Paper and Card Modelling. This form of modelling was in decline for many years, but in recent years has revived and evolved due to computer graphic programs.

Building models from paper and cardstock is cost effective relative to other materials, it is easy to work with, versatile, and needs little specialized equipment. Card is a strong and much underrated, wonder material when used in conjunction with today's glues and tools. With these it can be swaged, dished, moulded, burnished, bent and reinforced in ways that are impossible with plastics and metals. It can also be easily and cheaply repaired – most models require no painting. A quick rub with an ordinary marker or pencil soon masks any white edges.

Model making needs to be enjoyable and at the same time be satisfying. In the early days of railroad modelling card was a staple part of the hobby. In recent times the established trend has been for greater and greater accuracy with the consequence that kits have become ever more complicated, ever more expensive, and a therefore a deterrent to many modellers. Card offers the opportunity for changing that. Give it a shot, take up paper and card model making, you won't regret it. Besides you can customize models using popular programs such as Photoshop, Illustrator etc. Free programs like Paint.net and GIMP are also suitable.

The variety and subject matter available range from architectural miniatures, airplanes, ships and vehicles to sci-fi models. They certainly are a cost effective alternative to plastic kits as many model railroad and wargamers can attest.

I am a long time collector of HO/OO vehicles and other diecast models, so building dioramas to showcase them is lots of fun. I am constanly adding to or streamlining my models on EBAY. My next priority is to develop die-cut models using a digital laser cutting machine.

I started this blog to offer some insight into the world of paper modelling and to share sources of free and low cost models.

Here are some nice little model boats to start things off! ENJOY!



 





No comments:

Post a Comment