Straightliner59

Since I was a kid, I've loved miniatures. I'd stare at the little details in train layout in the hobby shop until my folks dragged me away! When I began modeling, I was fortunate to have a friend who had been building longer than I, and he taught me lots of basics about building; He'd say "Even if you can't see it, paint it." I followed his advice, and began experimenting with new techniques, myself. Even so, I never managed to beat him in the local hobby shop's monthly contest! When I left that small town, not quite a year after graduation, I moved to Denver. For the next three or four years, all bets were off, regarding modeling.There were too many record stores, concerts and a party or two, and a few things I don't need to go into, here!

Around late '81, or '82, I began to get the bug to build, again. Thankfully, Mom kept a couple of boxes of tools and supplies, and maybe a kit or two and some parts. At any rate, I was back in! Shortly, I met Don Fahrni. Not only did he mentor me, we became close friends, and remained so until his death, earlier this year. Don and I fed off one another's energy and passion for building. It led both of us to strive to be our very best, and we had a blast, learning casting, working with brass, and always, always seeing just how small and detailed we could make something. That eventually led me to drill out the cockpit of a 1/700th scale F4U-1 Corsair, and detail it. But, I digress...

I most enjoy scratchbuilding small assemblies--make each part a model unto itself, and, with any luck, finish enough of those little models to make one big model! Wish me luck, with that! I've drawn inspiration, and learned a lot of techniques from model railroaders, military modelers, commercial modelers and figure painters, as well as from the real automotive world. If you're reading this, and active on this forum, it's quite possible that you've inspired and taught me, as well. I view modeling as a perfect marriage of art and technology, and a perfect platform for sharing.Thanks to all of the friends who were there in my formative years, and thanks to all of you for being here, now!