Ian Tress

I often tell people I buy simple model kits and make them difficult. Two reasons for this are, I am either trying to create a variation of the model, thus requiring some modifications, or I am trying to learn how to scratch build my own additional parts. So consequently my models take longer to complete.

 

I am also excellent at starting kits off. I just need to try and be as excellent at getting them finished. I mainly build model cars in 1/43, 1/32 and 1/24 scales, but would also like to try figures and dioramas.

 

I started model making as a youngster initially modifying Dinky and Corgi cars and later moving on to 1/32 scale Airfix cars such as the Mini Cooper and Ford Escort. I also sometimes made my own parts out of thin fibreglass tissue and resin.  Next I started making white metal or resin kits from K&R Replicas, SMTS, Starter and Provence Moulage.

 

I took a break from modelling when our twin daughters arrived but have recently returned to the hobby and now build mainly in 1/24 scale.

 

I am always on the lookout for interesting cars to model, as real cars provide excellent reference material. The downside is I usually give the model away to the owner of the real car, so I don’t have many models to display or take to shows.  Maybe I should just make two of everything.

 

I was initially reluctant to join a model club but have found it absolutely beneficial for sharing ideas and for inspiration with new builds.  I am also a member of the IPMS and as a result have met numerous new people with excellent modelling skills and creativity which I can try to emulate and incorporate into my model builds as I learn and improve.