Where to Begin (Again)

[Ouch1]

Hi, after a lapse of almost 40yrs, half of them with my right arm and hand weak with almost no sensitivity from an accident, I want to return to car modeling. 

One thing that seems to be on my side that might make it easier for me to get started is that the molding, finish, and on many models the parts fit is much better then when I last got my glue covered fingerprint on a windshield.

My question is, where to start? I was thinking that an inexpensive kit would be the best place to begin, but cheaper kits often lack the fit of costlier ones. I thought that starting with a Tamiya kit would be best. The fit is uniformly fantastic as is almost everything else with these kits. I think this would avoid frustration. I'd choose a curbside.

I'd appreciate any and all opinions. Thanks in advance.

[crazyjim]

I would think a snap kit would much less expensive than any Tamiya kit.  The Tamiya kits are very well detailed in most instances.

[Ouch1]

Thanks for the suggestion. I don't know why I forgot about those. I agree with you. I'll start with a snap kit. I'll try the Tamiya kits later.

[1972coronet]

How is your coordination with your left hand / arm ? 

Are you thinking of painting with a brush ? Aerosol ? 

Many advances have come along in 40 years --- you've chosen a great time to return !

If your motor skills are acceptable-to-your-standards , you can use a silver metallic Sharpie for trim and the such --- much easier and cleaner than the old silver paint and tedium of brush painting . 

I , too , recommend snap-fit kits . Revell has a few lovely subjects in 1/25th scale to choose from : 1957 Chevy , 1963 Corvette , 1970 Chevelle , 1977 Monte Carlo (and maybe others) .

 

[Snake45]

What cars are of interest to you? Give us some idea what you like and we can point you toward some good starter kits. 

[SCRWDRVR]

There are quite a few options for sure, tell us what you like and I'm sure someone can point you in the right direction. I know when I got back into building about a 1 1/2 years ago I learned so much when I found this site and there are some very knowledgeable people here that can answer most any question you have.

[Ouch1]

Thanks for the great advice everyone! You all asked questions that I didn't think to ask myself. That helped allot. Briefly, I love sports cars, GTs, and super/hyper  cars. My special loves are: Jaguar XKE, Shelby Ford GT40 (any year) and Shelby Cobra with 427 engine. My left hand is good for scratching an itch, but that's about all. I figured on using spray cans and instead of a brush I was going to use paint pens.

By the way, it's because of MCM that I want to give modeling another shot. The models, explanation of builds and this forum (which is remarkable for the number of folks who respond to questions), gave me confidence to go for it. I figure that if I need help, there's a whole community of modelers to give me a hand. Thanks again!

[Mike 1017]

You can try some large scale kits.

http://www.hobbylinc.com/plastic-model-cars-trucks-vehicles-up-to-1:19-scale

[slusher]

  On 7/24/2020 at 1:07 PM, Ouch1 said:

Thanks for the great advice everyone! You all asked questions that I didn't think to ask myself. That helped allot. Briefly, I love sports cars, GTs, and super/hyper  cars. My special loves are: Jaguar XKE, Shelby Ford GT40 (any year) and Shelby Cobra with 427 engine. My left hand is good for scratching an itch, but that's about all. I figured on using spray cans and instead of a brush I was going to use paint pens.

By the way, it's because of MCM that I want to give modeling another shot. The models, explanation of builds and this forum (which is remarkable for the number of folks who respond to questions), gave me confidence to go for it. I figure that if I need help, there's a whole community of modelers to give me a hand. Thanks again!

Expand  

William,  I have had MS for 28 years now and my right arm is hardly any use. I can hold parts in my hand on good days. Don’t let anything discourage you. I tape windows in before gluing, I use a small vice for model building. I follow the instruction sheet. Build. Some snap kits to get started...

[jamesG]

I agree with jim, start wit a snap kit first to test the waters then move on to a slightly more advanced kit. 

Keep in mind that there are various devices and tricks out there that would aid in holding parts and holding parts together while you work. If you need help in that area don't hesitate to ask, there are lots of people here more than willing to help. 

[Chariots of Fire]

There are two or three rattle can paints I have used and would recommend.  First is Duplicolor automotive paints.  They are thin and require several coats to get a good color but the results are great AND they dry quickly and hard so polishing is easier to do.

Second and third would be Tamiya paints and even some of the craft paints that can be found in places like Michaels.  Both are much softer and require a longer drying time but they give good results as well.  

The biggest thing is take you time and don't try to rush the paint portion of the build.  Let them dry well before attempting to handle them or there will be fingerprints, especially with the Tamiya or craft paints.

[doorsovdoon]

An air brush with compressor would be ideal as they have a light trigger and don't weigh anything, but can get expensive. Most aerosols will be difficult to use if you have a weak hand, but there are trigger adaptors available now that can clip on the top.

Aerosol brands I highly recommend are- Plastikote, Motip, 'Colour it' by Paint Factory, and Hycote.