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Don't really understand what you mean? Naval Culture - Manual skills?
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LUCZORAMA SHIPWRECK SCAVENGER HUNT GIVEAWAY. 4 Weeks of Fun • 1 Legendary Prize ((OcCre’s Fram Ship)) • Global Crew Welcome!
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Actually, a lot of the comments made throughout this topic are very relevant to the original subject: what do you think about a TV program to spread modeling to a wider audience?
One needs to elaborate on why one would say "yes or no". Unless that is all the original poster expected: Yes or No.
First, one needs to assume the original question was about ship modeling.
If one does, the subject of a TV program must be studied, planned and executed. I am not a TV program producer, but I would imagine that any program on any subject goes through a boardroom dicussion process to make sure it is viable to reach as wide an audience as possible. Many of the comment qualify as such and there is definitly an argument to be made in favor or not.
And to answer the question, you may count me in the "no, I do not think it is not a good idea" ranks.
The second part of the subject line (The masters who are here and have free time can give lessons and practices about modeling...)
Not so much the who, but what defines the masters in question for the original poster?
One needs to know that once the term master has been defined, does he or she has the time to dedicate him or herself to be featured in such complicated venture: a TV program.
But then again, in our "social media world" these days, everyone is a so-called expert modeler.
And in my opinion, it is quite something to assume that any well seasoned / talented modeler (master) has that kind of time and energy to dedicate on top of building his / her models, which in itself can take months, years to achieve.
On a personal note and as written by some here, I do not think model ship building needs to grow an audience. Building is a solitary endeavor at every level. Yes, most modelers seek information while at the same time, they often also seeks or needs recognition for his / her work (good or bad). It would seem that it is where a forum come in: be nice to all, no criticism given or be qualified as an elitist. Although the assumption is that most modeler wish to improve on both these subjects: technique and overall look of fidelity for their model.
By definition, whether or not one accepts it, a master builder is part of an ellite group, . A talented builder, a good craftsman does not necessarely needs years of experience although in most cases they do. He relies on his talents, his / her craftsmanship abilities in many disciplines associated to model ship building.
Model ship building is an art. The traditional "masters' work can be qualified as fine-art. As for many modelers, and I do not wish to hurt anyone, the end product could often be entered into the "folk art" category. I believe this to be the case whether one builds from scratch or from a kit. It does not mean that one cannot be proud of the work done, for many (including myself) we are just in a different league, many of us work and aspire to reach that upper level.
Kindest regards.
GOne needs to elaborate on why one would say "yes or no". Unless that is all the original poster expected: Yes or No.
First, one needs to assume the original question was about ship modeling.
If one does, the subject of a TV program must be studied, planned and executed. I am not a TV program producer, but I would imagine that any program on any subject goes through a boardroom dicussion process to make sure it is viable to reach as wide an audience as possible. Many of the comment qualify as such and there is definitly an argument to be made in favor or not.
And to answer the question, you may count me in the "no, I do not think it is not a good idea" ranks.
The second part of the subject line (The masters who are here and have free time can give lessons and practices about modeling...)
Not so much the who, but what defines the masters in question for the original poster?
One needs to know that once the term master has been defined, does he or she has the time to dedicate him or herself to be featured in such complicated venture: a TV program.
But then again, in our "social media world" these days, everyone is a so-called expert modeler.
And in my opinion, it is quite something to assume that any well seasoned / talented modeler (master) has that kind of time and energy to dedicate on top of building his / her models, which in itself can take months, years to achieve.
On a personal note and as written by some here, I do not think model ship building needs to grow an audience. Building is a solitary endeavor at every level. Yes, most modelers seek information while at the same time, they often also seeks or needs recognition for his / her work (good or bad). It would seem that it is where a forum come in: be nice to all, no criticism given or be qualified as an elitist. Although the assumption is that most modeler wish to improve on both these subjects: technique and overall look of fidelity for their model.
By definition, whether or not one accepts it, a master builder is part of an ellite group, . A talented builder, a good craftsman does not necessarely needs years of experience although in most cases they do. He relies on his talents, his / her craftsmanship abilities in many disciplines associated to model ship building.
Model ship building is an art. The traditional "masters' work can be qualified as fine-art. As for many modelers, and I do not wish to hurt anyone, the end product could often be entered into the "folk art" category. I believe this to be the case whether one builds from scratch or from a kit. It does not mean that one cannot be proud of the work done, for many (including myself) we are just in a different league, many of us work and aspire to reach that upper level.
Kindest regards.
Last edited:
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sorry it is not relevant to the main topic.Frank
When a thread "drifts" and takes on a life of its own, the continuation of the discussion in a direction perhaps unanticipated by the original poster is generally a good indicator of its value to its participants, regardless of the original poster's intention. That does not in any way categorically imply any disrespect to the original poster. More often, in fact, it indicates that the original poster has contributed to the vitality of a forum regardless of whether that outcome was intentional or not.
There is much merit in noting the confusion that can arise when a thread drifts off topic (which usually occurs with good reason and to good effect) in a direction which bears no relationship to the thread title and thus becomes "hidden" and difficult to later locate by the original thread subject title. I think there's a very simple "hack" to negate this result. All that is required is for the Administrator or the original poster to enter a final post in the thread which announces that a new thread has been opened with a new title that reflects the "drifted" off-topic subject matter with a link to the new thread and then close the original thread if the original subject has "run its course." If not, the original thread can remain open and the new post linking to the new thread containing the off-topic discussion can instruct readers to post further off-topic posts to the new linked thread. The first post of a new topic containing previously posted off-topic discussion can itself direct the reader to the original thread for discussion posted previously with a link to the original thread, or, as may be desired, the earlier off-topic discussion can be "cut and pasted" to the first post of the newly created thread. It's all easier done than described in writing.
Simply "locking" the original thread is not a productive solution because it stifles further discussion of both the original topic and the "drifted" unrelated subject matter.
Best of both worlds? Simply close this thread with a link to a new thread in which we continue exploring the fundamental nature of our hobby or the desirability of actively encouraging growth in it.
Hi Bob,
However, in this case, it’s important to note that the original poster himself acknowledged the drift and expressed concern in post #50 (page 3), saying: "I apologize, but the topic seems to have strayed from the purpose of the title... I don't want to be the cause of such a fuss."
When the original poster voices concern, it’s only respectful that we take steps to honor their intent for the thread. We value vibrant discussions, and drifting into new ideas is part of that. But to keep the forum organized and welcoming for all readers, especially future ones looking for specific topics, we ask that when a discussion naturally branches off, a new thread be started. It’s easy to do and ensures no valuable conversation gets lost or buried. Simply "letting it flow" without structure can confuse and make it harder for everyone to find and enjoy the great content being shared.
Thanks again for your understanding, and if you feel the conversation deserves a new thread, we'd be happy to support that!
If you'd like, we can assist you with creating a new thread.
I love the idea, but I too do not know where to start. Keep the ideas and assistance flowing.
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maybe it is the translation that does not express the meanings but , the difference I know you have to see You if you know it. Frank
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Hello my friends,
First of all, thank you for allowing me to answer your question. The hobby of model building itself is a bit different from all other hobbies. Anyone who started it as a child is always happy about a nice model when it looks really good. We all know that some models aren't that great, but then we can laugh about it together and make it better.
We learn from each other and with each other. It makes no difference at all whether a model is built completely from scratch according to historical plans or from an ordinary kit. What counts is simply the attention to detail and the perseverance to complete the model.
There are no model builders who are above others, and they should be ashamed of themselves. Because anything elitist is simply ridiculous. But that's probably more of a psychological problem. So far I've always come across nice and helpful model builders, but I have to say that model building, whether in plastic, wood or iron etc., is no longer as important as it was when we were children. The desire to build models has declined because society has changed. Computers, 3D etc. have also contributed to the fact that people prefer to look at an animated model instead of letting their imagination run wild and sinking into another world with the model.
Model making will always have and find its fans among enthusiasts of this craft. However, I doubt that it will actually become more popular and commercially successful if it becomes more widely known, as this hobby is very special and involves a lot of work.
Nevertheless, I am always optimistic and would like to see many more people discover this hobby for themselves. It either relaxes you or drives you crazy. But maybe I'm wrong.
If I can support the campaign, I'd be happy to help ...!
Best regards
Günter
First of all, thank you for allowing me to answer your question. The hobby of model building itself is a bit different from all other hobbies. Anyone who started it as a child is always happy about a nice model when it looks really good. We all know that some models aren't that great, but then we can laugh about it together and make it better.
We learn from each other and with each other. It makes no difference at all whether a model is built completely from scratch according to historical plans or from an ordinary kit. What counts is simply the attention to detail and the perseverance to complete the model.
There are no model builders who are above others, and they should be ashamed of themselves. Because anything elitist is simply ridiculous. But that's probably more of a psychological problem. So far I've always come across nice and helpful model builders, but I have to say that model building, whether in plastic, wood or iron etc., is no longer as important as it was when we were children. The desire to build models has declined because society has changed. Computers, 3D etc. have also contributed to the fact that people prefer to look at an animated model instead of letting their imagination run wild and sinking into another world with the model.
Model making will always have and find its fans among enthusiasts of this craft. However, I doubt that it will actually become more popular and commercially successful if it becomes more widely known, as this hobby is very special and involves a lot of work.
Nevertheless, I am always optimistic and would like to see many more people discover this hobby for themselves. It either relaxes you or drives you crazy. But maybe I'm wrong.
If I can support the campaign, I'd be happy to help ...!
Best regards
Günter
Last edited:
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Ditto
Ok, so this is my perspective on this topic, having started this journey four months ago being a retired 30 Mustang Navy Officer that promised myself I would build a wooden ship, the USS Constitution after I retired. Like most folks, I’ve been building plastic models since I was eight years old. I was unaware that the Model Shipways USS Constitution (MS2040) was once of the more difficult wooden ship models to assemble. This is my fault because I had not done enough research and made some assumptions along the way not knowing I would be given a set of plans, some laser-cut parts and a box filled with nothing really but wood. Yes, I was shocked because I had no idea where this was going. At this point, and continuously updating my build log, I’ve come to the realization that I never for once regret my decision and I’m always up for the challenge for being comfortable being uncomfortable.
How do you get more people interested in this amazingly satisfying endeavor? I think we have decent marketing, but they tend to be spotty online or seen in a brand hobby shop. Word of mouth is interesting, but while it sounds really cool to some people, what would it really take to peak their interests and at least try something easier, like building something smaller and simple to challenge yourself into seeking out bigger. If I had this as part of a school curriculum that was an elective next to art or music and required to build a simpler and smaller scale model, and you can couple this with some historical instruction to understand what you are looking at and doing, then I believe we could be onto something here. During a class like this, being able to convey the possibilities out there to expand from where you started has the potential to stimulate excitement as well as knowledge of cost, tools, skill sets, etc.
If I had a class like this, I probably would have taken that route and made it part of my model assembling hobby. What got my attention was going to Boston onto the Conny and then seeing a model ship builder/assembler building an amazing ship that I assumed was the Conny and being a new Ensign at the time, I didn’t know any better…it just sounded good at the time. I was completely amazed by this and that fact that someone was doing something like this and looked so peaceful and patient doing it. I also understood that the patience piece and attention to detail played a major piece in completing something like this. It was from that moment on that I had promised myself that I would do this after I retired, plus the price tag at the time was $1200 and that was like 30+ years ago. How do you find someone’s center of gravity focused on taking up a hobby like this? The key is exposure. I’ve never seen a commercial on television advertising taking this as a hobby and what might be perceived as a gratifying experience for some. We see this with toys all the time, but we do not promote anything like this, or hobbies in general…If I saw a commercial and it showed every day for a long period of time, and being an avid non-wood model assembler, than I probably would have started this much sooner, especially in high school where I was already working a part-time job.
Finally, I never considered labeling anyone who do this as a hobby. I see experience levels because even a scratch builder has to start somewhere. I feel that Conny is a hybrid because there are premade parts, but at the same time lots of parts you have to create yourself…the best of both worlds and I don’t mind that because I’ll be even better when I get to my next ship build. There is a lot of amazing talent at all levels, some which are so perfect in most ways and blows my mind, and I say most ways because I being comparing my kit to their build on certain accuracies caused by their version of kit bashing, but at the end of the day, the results are the same. You’ve all built the same thing, but using a different technique. I do not want to be the best, but assemble something I think if amazing and great, which is also subjective to other builders because beauty is in the eye of the beholder. First you have to love what you do, and that passion should translate to folks around you when they ask, so what kinds of hobbies do you have. I find wooden ship building piques the interest pretty easily because it’s not something you hear every day. I do not think it is an exclusive club, but an exclusive experience of like-minded individuals to share techniques, experiences, and comradery. Ok, I’m done standing on my soap box…
How do you get more people interested in this amazingly satisfying endeavor? I think we have decent marketing, but they tend to be spotty online or seen in a brand hobby shop. Word of mouth is interesting, but while it sounds really cool to some people, what would it really take to peak their interests and at least try something easier, like building something smaller and simple to challenge yourself into seeking out bigger. If I had this as part of a school curriculum that was an elective next to art or music and required to build a simpler and smaller scale model, and you can couple this with some historical instruction to understand what you are looking at and doing, then I believe we could be onto something here. During a class like this, being able to convey the possibilities out there to expand from where you started has the potential to stimulate excitement as well as knowledge of cost, tools, skill sets, etc.
If I had a class like this, I probably would have taken that route and made it part of my model assembling hobby. What got my attention was going to Boston onto the Conny and then seeing a model ship builder/assembler building an amazing ship that I assumed was the Conny and being a new Ensign at the time, I didn’t know any better…it just sounded good at the time. I was completely amazed by this and that fact that someone was doing something like this and looked so peaceful and patient doing it. I also understood that the patience piece and attention to detail played a major piece in completing something like this. It was from that moment on that I had promised myself that I would do this after I retired, plus the price tag at the time was $1200 and that was like 30+ years ago. How do you find someone’s center of gravity focused on taking up a hobby like this? The key is exposure. I’ve never seen a commercial on television advertising taking this as a hobby and what might be perceived as a gratifying experience for some. We see this with toys all the time, but we do not promote anything like this, or hobbies in general…If I saw a commercial and it showed every day for a long period of time, and being an avid non-wood model assembler, than I probably would have started this much sooner, especially in high school where I was already working a part-time job.
Finally, I never considered labeling anyone who do this as a hobby. I see experience levels because even a scratch builder has to start somewhere. I feel that Conny is a hybrid because there are premade parts, but at the same time lots of parts you have to create yourself…the best of both worlds and I don’t mind that because I’ll be even better when I get to my next ship build. There is a lot of amazing talent at all levels, some which are so perfect in most ways and blows my mind, and I say most ways because I being comparing my kit to their build on certain accuracies caused by their version of kit bashing, but at the end of the day, the results are the same. You’ve all built the same thing, but using a different technique. I do not want to be the best, but assemble something I think if amazing and great, which is also subjective to other builders because beauty is in the eye of the beholder. First you have to love what you do, and that passion should translate to folks around you when they ask, so what kinds of hobbies do you have. I find wooden ship building piques the interest pretty easily because it’s not something you hear every day. I do not think it is an exclusive club, but an exclusive experience of like-minded individuals to share techniques, experiences, and comradery. Ok, I’m done standing on my soap box…
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Thank you for your service
Thanks for your insight. I had seen a couple threads on this topic and one was an older one and this thread seemed fairly recent, so I thought this was the right thread to respond to with this subject. I read some of the replies. Perhaps I should have read much more so I had a better picture of where the discussion was going. The first thread was definitely the way you described it where it was veering off target. Thanks again, for the guidance. I don't think I would create another thread because it's already been used at least in two threads and this would probably beat a dead horse.
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Don't worry about it. I have listed in the wrong area several times by mistake and this site is very forgiving.
I believe you brought up several suggestions that would work. It's just a matter of finding and interesting someone in a position to implement them.
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Our local school system has a very active adult community education program with classes about everything from doing your own taxes to belly dancing.
I believe that those interested in teaching a subject make a proposal to the powers that be who advertise the class and provide the classroom. The rest is up to the teacher.
Roger
I believe that those interested in teaching a subject make a proposal to the powers that be who advertise the class and provide the classroom. The rest is up to the teacher.
Roger
I think more shops, including Walmart, Target, local hobby shops should sell beginner's kits, such as the Model Expo kits...Hobby Lobby.
That would be a good thing. Around here the hobby shops don't carry ship kits or accessories. If I need blocks or deadeyes etc, I order them online!
im a fan of craft shows, you tubes, tv craft programs on pbs and constantly advocate hobbies of any sort. but regardless of exposure, you cant make people interested in anything if they dont have the desire to let go of reality for a few hours a day... let alone take on a project that requires years, learning skills, aquiring tools and a love for a subject. thats why this is a retirement hobby just like most that need some level of dedication.
i have more hobbies than most, but ive always had hobbies in my life. i grew up before tv, internet, cell phones and artificial entertainment. it was a way of life for kids to make things, to be creative, play an instrument use our brains. my roller skates became skate boards or box cars. i repaired bikes, learned automotive repair in the streets. we built plastic models, whittled, built radios, oil painted, sculpted, made costumes and played in the streets till the cows came home.
today most just lump out and watch you tubes, text friends, and are saturated by artificial intelligence, and im not refering to computer ai. i see kids refering to dumb online games as a hobby... i see people in parks walking around with phones glued to their face looking for invisable pokie men. they look like zombies walking in a stupor. their idea of a hobbiy is totaly non productive.
so how can you change that?... the peer pressure alone makes it almost impossible to get people interested. "it looks to hard" or too complicated and will mean i cant play dungion thrown of thorns with my million friends on face book while emulating some crap music that will fry a normal person's brain.
i have more hobbies than most, but ive always had hobbies in my life. i grew up before tv, internet, cell phones and artificial entertainment. it was a way of life for kids to make things, to be creative, play an instrument use our brains. my roller skates became skate boards or box cars. i repaired bikes, learned automotive repair in the streets. we built plastic models, whittled, built radios, oil painted, sculpted, made costumes and played in the streets till the cows came home.
today most just lump out and watch you tubes, text friends, and are saturated by artificial intelligence, and im not refering to computer ai. i see kids refering to dumb online games as a hobby... i see people in parks walking around with phones glued to their face looking for invisable pokie men. they look like zombies walking in a stupor. their idea of a hobbiy is totaly non productive.
so how can you change that?... the peer pressure alone makes it almost impossible to get people interested. "it looks to hard" or too complicated and will mean i cant play dungion thrown of thorns with my million friends on face book while emulating some crap music that will fry a normal person's brain.
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my dad was a big stamp and coin collector. When he passed away the collections went to me. When i went to sell them to my surprise they weren't worth much over face value. No one really wanted them.
i believe it is just a matter of natural evolution, what was important to my parents or to me are just not important or have any value to generation Z.
Sure back when i was growing up hobbies and model kits were a big thing because that's all that was available. We have expanded in so many ways and as the saying goes "out with the old and in with the new" and that is just the way it is.
i came across an article on baby boomer hobbies that are fading away and look what number 2 is
Stamp Collecting
Some hardcore enthusiasts remain, but stamp collecting, or philately, has largely become a niche hobby. It was once a mainstream pastime, with people eagerly hunting for rare and valuable postage stamps. Schools even had stamp clubs, and collectors spent hours curating their collections.
However, as physical mail has declined in favor of emails and digital communication, fewer people are interested in collecting stamps.
Model Ship Building
This used to be a common hobby, especially among those fascinated by naval history. Enthusiasts spent hours carefully assembling detailed replicas of famous vessels, from old pirate ships to military battleships. Today, with fewer hobby shops carrying model kits and attention shifting to video games and digital modeling, its popularity is on the wane.
Home Movie Projection
Before streaming services and DVDs, families used home movie projectors to watch films on reels. It was a special event to set up the projector, load a film, dim the lights and gather around to watch black-and-white movies or home-recorded footage. The rise of digital technology made physical film reels obsolete and home movies today are stored on phones or in the cloud.
Rock Tumbling
This was once a fascinating hobby that allowed people to turn rough stones into polished, gleaming gems. Kids and adults alike enjoyed the process of placing rocks into a tumbler, letting them smooth out over time, and then displaying the results.
However, with fewer people interested in geology as a pastime and more entertainment options available, it has become a rare hobby.
Calligraphy
Elegant handwriting and decorative lettering used to be a prized skill, with calligraphy enthusiasts practicing for hours to perfect their strokes. In the past, calligraphy was widely used for invitations, certificates, and artistic projects, but computers and digital fonts have taken over.
Coin Collecting
Similar to stamp collecting, this was once a mainstream hobby where people sought rare and historical coins. Many collectors enjoyed hunting for unique pieces, learning about history, and trading with others. However, as digital payments have largely replaced physical money, interest in coin collecting has declined.
Some serious collectors still remain, but the general public is far less engaged in this once-popular activity.
Building Model Trains
Model train sets were once a prized hobby for enthusiasts who built elaborate miniature railroads. People spent countless hours designing layouts, crafting scenery, and fine-tuning their trains. There are still dedicated hobbyists, but the widespread appeal has faded, making it a nostalgic memory rather than a common pastime as old-style hobbies continue to shift toward digital entertainment.
i believe it is just a matter of natural evolution, what was important to my parents or to me are just not important or have any value to generation Z.
Sure back when i was growing up hobbies and model kits were a big thing because that's all that was available. We have expanded in so many ways and as the saying goes "out with the old and in with the new" and that is just the way it is.
i came across an article on baby boomer hobbies that are fading away and look what number 2 is
Stamp Collecting
Some hardcore enthusiasts remain, but stamp collecting, or philately, has largely become a niche hobby. It was once a mainstream pastime, with people eagerly hunting for rare and valuable postage stamps. Schools even had stamp clubs, and collectors spent hours curating their collections.
However, as physical mail has declined in favor of emails and digital communication, fewer people are interested in collecting stamps.
Model Ship Building
This used to be a common hobby, especially among those fascinated by naval history. Enthusiasts spent hours carefully assembling detailed replicas of famous vessels, from old pirate ships to military battleships. Today, with fewer hobby shops carrying model kits and attention shifting to video games and digital modeling, its popularity is on the wane.
Home Movie Projection
Before streaming services and DVDs, families used home movie projectors to watch films on reels. It was a special event to set up the projector, load a film, dim the lights and gather around to watch black-and-white movies or home-recorded footage. The rise of digital technology made physical film reels obsolete and home movies today are stored on phones or in the cloud.
Rock Tumbling
This was once a fascinating hobby that allowed people to turn rough stones into polished, gleaming gems. Kids and adults alike enjoyed the process of placing rocks into a tumbler, letting them smooth out over time, and then displaying the results.
However, with fewer people interested in geology as a pastime and more entertainment options available, it has become a rare hobby.
Calligraphy
Elegant handwriting and decorative lettering used to be a prized skill, with calligraphy enthusiasts practicing for hours to perfect their strokes. In the past, calligraphy was widely used for invitations, certificates, and artistic projects, but computers and digital fonts have taken over.
Coin Collecting
Similar to stamp collecting, this was once a mainstream hobby where people sought rare and historical coins. Many collectors enjoyed hunting for unique pieces, learning about history, and trading with others. However, as digital payments have largely replaced physical money, interest in coin collecting has declined.
Some serious collectors still remain, but the general public is far less engaged in this once-popular activity.
Building Model Trains
Model train sets were once a prized hobby for enthusiasts who built elaborate miniature railroads. People spent countless hours designing layouts, crafting scenery, and fine-tuning their trains. There are still dedicated hobbyists, but the widespread appeal has faded, making it a nostalgic memory rather than a common pastime as old-style hobbies continue to shift toward digital entertainment.
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Paul and Dave,
Well said! This certainly reflects my life experiences both as a child and as an adult. I still have my stamp collection started as a gift from a friend of my parents. It was more than just gluing stamps on a page with those little hinges. It opened the world for me as there were stories behind many stamps. I was a particularly fascinated by a series of stamps with the colorful flags of overrun countries.
My father traveled internationally managing the construction of overseas tire plants for one of the Akron, Ohio based rubber companies. When he came home we assembled to see the pictures that he had taken (slides not movies). I did the same on overseas business trips. By then nobody wanted to watch the slides. It was “What did you bring me?”
Another life change affecting ship modeling is the emergence of organized childhood activities that did not exist when I was growing up. There are umpteen sports teams as well as other things. The good news is that these are healthy vs TV and Internet.
Bottom line; There are more kits (plastic and wood) available to buy than can be built in several lifetimes and resources that did not exist in the past are available for scratch builders because of the internet. Despite the perception that ours is a dying art it’s really a golden age.
Convincing Target and Walmart to stock kits? It’s a job for the kit manufacturers.
Roger
Well said! This certainly reflects my life experiences both as a child and as an adult. I still have my stamp collection started as a gift from a friend of my parents. It was more than just gluing stamps on a page with those little hinges. It opened the world for me as there were stories behind many stamps. I was a particularly fascinated by a series of stamps with the colorful flags of overrun countries.
My father traveled internationally managing the construction of overseas tire plants for one of the Akron, Ohio based rubber companies. When he came home we assembled to see the pictures that he had taken (slides not movies). I did the same on overseas business trips. By then nobody wanted to watch the slides. It was “What did you bring me?”
Another life change affecting ship modeling is the emergence of organized childhood activities that did not exist when I was growing up. There are umpteen sports teams as well as other things. The good news is that these are healthy vs TV and Internet.
Bottom line; There are more kits (plastic and wood) available to buy than can be built in several lifetimes and resources that did not exist in the past are available for scratch builders because of the internet. Despite the perception that ours is a dying art it’s really a golden age.
Convincing Target and Walmart to stock kits? It’s a job for the kit manufacturers.
Roger