The following is a post from a Model Railroading group, BUT is generic enough for ALL hobbyists, whether the hobby is quilt-making, woodworking, crocheting, whatever.
[for every model railroad jargon word below, insert a jargon word from your particular hobby.]
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THE SUNDAY EVENING POST (Dave Pye)
THE CASUAL MODELER
Not every modeler has to be an all-out, “REAL” model railroader, if for no other reason than some don’t want to be. There is something to be said for a more casual approach.
Even as a professional model builder, I occasionally built a box-stock kit of some sort. You folks may have noticed I try to write about subjects for beginners. But, lately, I have started to include the “casual” model builder, as well.
I have heard that it is always good — by almost all accounts — to push our envelopes every time build. And, if becoming a more proficient model builder is your goal, then do so, by all means! For many, the build is the thing. But, for others, it’s not.
The building can be the “thing,” but I think it wise to avoid it being the only thing.
Relaxation and having a pastime are great, no two ways about it. After all, this IS a hobby. A case in point is that some find it relaxing to hand-lay track, others find it annoying and tedious at best. It is a skill, however, and skill-building should be a goal, in my opinion. That is an attraction of model railroading to me: the learning of the many facet and skills. And, after 60-plus years, I have yet to master them all. But, I keep trying.
Exploring the different genres of model building can be a fun and rewarding experience. I read magazines that feature various types of plastic models. And, in each of these areas, there are tips and techniques that apply directly to model railroading. Each branch of the overall hobby of building miniatures has merit, whether or not it is readily recognized.
The various skills involved in model building can seem overwhelming, but most of the necessities are covered by manufacturers. It is just fine to take shortcuts and buy some “kerplunk” items; you don’t have to scratchbuild everything.
But, advance your skills where you can. And, if you get stuck in one aspect, buy a ready-to-roll item to keep things, well, rolling. But, for many, a slower approach may be the best. For the veteran builders, take a break now and again.
TAKING TIME:
Take some time to assess your skills, focus on the basics, and I think you’ll find that simple may – from time to time (or all the time) — be an appealing path for you. A beautiful layout can be built of simple, easy items. All it takes is being realistic in your goals; make goals attainable. And, stick to the basics with everything you build.
Take some time, and work on the fundamentals. The basics are what yield a model you can be proud of. There is nothing better than a clean build. Polish those skills and use them. And, keep them current! Make your skill sets a team. A team always does better, it is said.
Take some time to remember that model railroading is fun, and so are the FUNdamentals of it all.
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Denise Vokoun
Lisa Mullins Nelson
Lisa Hannigan
Dennis Wadsworth
And anyone else who has a creative hobby that I’ve forgotten.
