While scale modelling has been around for centuries the plastic kits we see today derived from military use in the Second World War. The RAF developed 1:72 scale planes out of recycled rubber tyres while the US Navy created 1:432 scale metal models. After the war commercial models were produced by many companies in a variety of scales. It was Airfix who settled on a fixed scale product line, and they chose the old RAF scale of 1:72.

What makes scale modelling an excellent passtime is the attention to detail. From a physical perspective it isn't that difficult to put a model together. Generally speaking there's no point in the process that requires special skill or dexterity. Instead, it is the sheer number of steps in the process that baffles many a would-be model-maker. A Plasterkraft kit might have a dozen steps in the assembly process. A scale model might have a hundred.

Scale models encourage persistence, patience, and concentration. The main skill is the capacity to follow a set of detailed instructions over a long period.

Kits

We have opted for larger scale models. The resulting models are bigger (and way more impressive!). More importantly, the individual components are larger which makes them easier to handle. These models have more detail which in turn makes them more rewarding to paint. While the kits are bigger and better they take longer to make and are more expensive. If a student is with us for one session the model won't be completed and there is a $15 surcharge. If the students is with us for a day then the model won't be completed and there is a $10 surcharge. Incomplete models may be taken home - just keep in mind that you will need to have tools, glue, and paint to complete the project.

Scale Models: Kraftworks' Big Projects!