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Discussion Why Do So Many Members Never Post? Let’s Talk!

But also as previously mentioned the standard of some of the builders on here at times makes us mere mortals feel like giving up. So I also do tend to read and take in all the useful tips and suggestions in the hope it helps to improve my builds. I've done a few HMS Fly, Cazador Xebec and at present battling the 1:84 panart Amerigo Vespucci with added lights. It's been heavy going and to be honest I'm struggling to get motivated again after suffering my 5th heart attack. I do want to get back again as I am really tempted by the new Victory's from either Occre or the anatomy version from Artesania. But watching and going through some of the threads on here is getting me there. So I have to say a huge thank you to all the members here, especially the mods who keep it ship shape.
 
I started off with a flurry and have stopped, but I'm just about ready to fire up to start my build of the Bounty when it arrives from the Yard. I have done some soul searching and have moved away from a scratch build, as I don't think this old, deteriorating brain is capable of just cruising into one.
I have spent a lot of time on the SOS site looking for one thing, and that was how do you make up the Frames between the main frames on a model.
I guess it is too hard to show - dunno. Have been to other forums to find out, but there is no info available......... etc..
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In my opinion, most newbies in the hobby are doing what I do- new to the hobby and trying to fit the parts of a build together by scouting around.
Maybe Dave from the Lumberyard has done one, or even many others may have done so also. This, I feel, is what is happening, maybe wrong.
Thank you for sharing. Your honesty resonates with many of us more than you know. Choosing a kit over scratch doesn’t lessen the build one bit; it’s still an achievement and a joy. As for adding intermediate frames between the main ones, you're absolutely right: it's a topic that could use more coverage. Maybe it’s not “too hard” to show, just not often documented in detail. Your comment might just be the nudge someone needs to post a step-by-step or even inspire a new tutorial. And yes, you're spot on, most newcomers are quietly piecing things together just like you. You're not alone!
 
Honestly right now, I am trying to get my world right…Sunday marks the first anniversary of the wife’s passing, a lot has happened in the year. For a while I was lost and numb. I packed the house and put it on the market, but the market is just to soft right now to move a $785K, 7500 sqft house. So, I decided to keep it, and the daughter and grandson moved in. The workshop is packed and has become a storeroom. I’ll eventually sort through all of my stuff, and the daughter’s, have some yard sales, and get my shop back. The ships aren’t going anywhere, they’re waiting on me. And I’ll get my world back in order and start building again. Until then, I am watching the rest of the members make progress, and learning….
One step and day at a time mate. We all have your back.
 
I used to write for a national aero modelling magazine, many years ago, I hardly ever flew those that I had built, so stopped writing. I have since taken up model ship building, I read all the posts and take inspiration from what i read, Now just finishing my twelfth model, Awaiting the release of the next. I just get on with the modelling when im not teaching projectile sports the scout groups etc..
 
the way this is going seems people are looking for information and that is well and good. however, we have 20,000 people looking for information and less than 100 providing it. I do not think this small % can cover all the information people may be looking for. As an example i have done build logs and everyone is scratch built models. so, my logs are irrelevant to kit builders which is the majority. A priority list to find out what is important to the mass majority. for example CAD drafting is a low priority because very few actually use it, kit building is a much higher priority than scratch building, very few are into 3D printing. historical back rounds of a subject are really low. reading a biography of master shipwright Willian Bell might be somewhat interesting but totally irrelevant to how do i build this or that kit.
So, maybe kit manufactures should send me kits so i can crank out build log after build log. rather than do a log on how to draft a set of modeling plans.

As Jim said and i agree even if there are 20 build logs of the same kit each builder brings their personal ideas, methods and perspective to the project. but there is a point of repetition
 
I’ve noticed over time that quite a few folks register here, but never post—or maybe only write one or two messages and then go quiet.
I understand that not everyone wants to jump right in, and that’s perfectly okay, but I’m genuinely curious: What keeps new members from posting more? Is it nerves? Not sure where to start? Concern about experience level? Language? Something else?

No pressure at all, but if you’re reading this and haven’t said much (or anything), this is your invitation to chime in. Even a “Hi, I’m here” is enough to get going. We all started somewhere, and we’re glad you’re here.
I tend to be much the same as smonsma - somewhat introverted. Even in live meetings, social situations or online video discussions I'm quiet - just happier that way. I enjoy this forum immensely and feel I'm amongst friends and, if really necessary, I'll ask the occasional question or maybe summon up the courage to post my builds here. But I'm really content and quite happy to "lurk" although I consider that term a wee bit offensive. Some of us are simply happier being quiet but thank you to all you regular posters: I really enjoy reading your contributions on so many subjects. This is a wonderful forum/site.

Pat
 
But also as previously mentioned the standard of some of the builders on here at times makes us mere mortals feel like giving up. So I also do tend to read and take in all the useful tips and suggestions in the hope it helps to improve my builds. I've done a few HMS Fly, Cazador Xebec and at present battling the 1:84 panart Amerigo Vespucci with added lights. It's been heavy going and to be honest I'm struggling to get motivated again after suffering my 5th heart attack. I do want to get back again as I am really tempted by the new Victory's from either Occre or the anatomy version from Artesania. But watching and going through some of the threads on here is getting me there. So I have to say a huge thank you to all the members here, especially the mods who keep it ship shape.
Thank you for opening up. It means a lot. First and foremost, SOS wishes you strength and health as you recover; your perseverance is admirable. And please don’t underestimate your own work! The build log you could start might end up answering many of the very questions you’ve had; it helps others, yes, but also helps you clarify, reflect, and even get encouragement when you need it most. Whether it’s the Fly, Vespucci, or a future Victory, I hope you do share your journey - we’d be honored to follow along.
 
As an example i have done build logs and everyone is scratch built models. so, my logs are irrelevant to kit builders which is the majority.
Actually, I think your scratch build logs are incredibly relevant to all of us, including kit builders. Many of the techniques, tips, and methods you share apply across the board, whether we're assembling from a box or shaping every plank from raw wood. Often, it's your deep dive into construction or problem-solving that inspires and teaches the rest of us. Please don’t underestimate the value you bring!
 
I tend to be much the same as smonsma - somewhat introverted. Even in live meetings, social situations or online video discussions I'm quiet - just happier that way. I enjoy this forum immensely and feel I'm amongst friends and, if really necessary, I'll ask the occasional question or maybe summon up the courage to post my builds here. But I'm really content and quite happy to "lurk" although I consider that term a wee bit offensive. Some of us are simply happier being quiet but thank you to all you regular posters: I really enjoy reading your contributions on so many subjects. This is a wonderful forum/site.

Pat
Hi, Pat.
I completely understand where you’re coming from. Being quieter or more introverted doesn’t mean you’re any less a part of this community. In fact, your presence here, even as a “quiet” member, enriches the forum just by being part of it. And I agree, “lurking” can sound a bit harsh; it’s really more like thoughtful listening and learning. Whenever you feel ready to share, we’ll be here, but meanwhile, your appreciation means a lot to all of us who post. Welcome, friend!
 
Hi, Pat.
I completely understand where you’re coming from. Being quieter or more introverted doesn’t mean you’re any less a part of this community. In fact, your presence here, even as a “quiet” member, enriches the forum just by being part of it. And I agree, “lurking” can sound a bit harsh; it’s really more like thoughtful listening and learning. Whenever you feel ready to share, we’ll be here, but meanwhile, your appreciation means a lot to all of us who post. Welcome, friend!
Thanks so much for your reply Jim!

Pat
 
Here, I signed in just for you.

That's part of the reason I don't post is I usually go on my phone and never signed in here. But the main reason is that I spend my activity on the other forum. I have an account here so I can open pictures and in case I want to post the odd comment.

Nothing to do with nerves, nothing to do with lack of skill, simply because I found myself to be active elsewhere. I suppose I could cross post to here but then that creates more work away from modeling. I could simply drop a link to my logs, but that may be against the rules.
 
controversial topics draw the most comments. Build logs get little feedback other than "nice job"
Well for one, yes, build logs can be kind of repetitive unless we're looking at scratch only. Unless someone has a proper relationship, its unnatural to force comments on build logs aside from nice job, the odd question about how something unique was done or giving advice in the office chance the builder asked.

Aside from that, I think there's a certain etiquette to not flood someone elses build log with comments. A build log is special because it's an individuals personal log. It would be very awkward for some to start random conversations in the middle of (unless it was op).
 
Here, I signed in just for you.

That's part of the reason I don't post is I usually go on my phone and never signed in here. But the main reason is that I spend my activity on the other forum. I have an account here so I can open pictures and in case I want to post the odd comment.

Nothing to do with nerves, nothing to do with lack of skill, simply because I found myself to be active elsewhere. I suppose I could cross post to here but then that creates more work away from modeling. I could simply drop a link to my logs, but that may be against the rules.
Thank you for signing in, though I have to admit, the tone of "just for you" caught me a little off guard. I genuinely appreciate every member who contributes, whether it's a full build log or just the occasional comment. But the idea behind this discussion isn't about pulling people away from other forums or asking for anything extra, it’s about understanding what draws people in or holds them back and how we can make this place more welcoming for everyone.

If you're active elsewhere, that's completely fine; each of us finds the community that suits us best. But I’d kindly suggest that cross-posting or even sharing a link to your log (if within forum guidelines) isn’t necessarily “more work.” It might actually help others here, especially newcomers looking for inspiration or guidance. Participation isn’t about volume - it’s about connection. If you ever do decide to share more here, I’m sure many would appreciate it, including me. :)
 
I am a member of several forums (fora?) dealing with a wide range of topics and find two things always popping up: too much chatter and people only showing the most intricate and beautiful creations. The first quietens down serious participants, as the overwhelming 'noise' is - to be brutally honest - boring. I pick my threads off interest carefully and ignore the rest. The second is universal, as most people are too shy to show mistakes and failures. I think the struggle is where I learn. I do like the superb models I see and use them as a far away horizon, but I have a deep interest in what people had to do to get there. And I will happily share my cuts and bruises to see if someone can assist to get to that next step.

By the way, SOS is really not doing so bad. So let's try to change things not too much.
 
I am a member of several forums (fora?) dealing with a wide range of topics and find two things always popping up: too much chatter and people only showing the most intricate and beautiful creations. The first quietens down serious participants, as the overwhelming 'noise' is - to be brutally honest - boring. I pick my threads off interest carefully and ignore the rest. The second is universal, as most people are too shy to show mistakes and failures. I think the struggle is where I learn. I do like the superb models I see and use them as a far away horizon, but I have a deep interest in what people had to do to get there. And I will happily share my cuts and bruises to see if someone can assist to get to that next step.

By the way, SOS is really not doing so bad. So let's try to change things not too much.
Your post really made me stop and think, Marco. Thank you for sharing that honest perspective. I agree with you: the real gold is often found in the struggle, not just the polished end result. That’s where learning lives, and I wish more people felt comfortable showing the messy middle.

You mentioned that SoS is “not doing so bad,” and I’d love to ask: is there a particular aspect or thread, or maybe even the tone of this forum compared to others, that makes you feel that way? I think your insights could help shape how we continue encouraging more open, useful, and welcoming discussions here, without adding to the “noise.” Thanks again for chiming in!
 
I read and learn from what I read on the forums and love it. My interests are Chesapeake Bay work boats I do very little rigging and my models are built very much like the real wooden work boats were some time ago we do still build a few that way. I live on the Chesapeake Bay in Mathews County Va. we have a rich Maritime history here been building ships and boats since the 1600'S. The men here were boat builders, mariners and fisherman. I belong to 2 model boat clubs nearby, so I am lucky to have all of this history and knowledge at my fingertips. So maybe I should share some of my work and be more active. So here is a tease this is the Maid King a work boat in transition using a rudder and tiller built in the mid 1920's here in Mathews County and used in the pound net fishing. She is rigged as a pile driver to set pound poles for the nets. She met her end on the burn pile in the late 1980's as she was no longer serviceable.

20250403_161031.jpg

20250403_161049.jpg
 
I have to admit, the tone of "just for you" caught me a little off guard.
Apologies,it was not meant to be negative!

And fair, as mentioned, if it's not against guidelines (which I'll check out a bit later) I'll happily post a link to my logs. Come to think of it,I suppose I could even just drop them in my signature.
 
I tend to be much the same as smonsma - somewhat introverted. Even in live meetings, social situations or online video discussions I'm quiet - just happier that way. I enjoy this forum immensely and feel I'm amongst friends and, if really necessary, I'll ask the occasional question or maybe summon up the courage to post my builds here. But I'm really content and quite happy to "lurk" although I consider that term a wee bit offensive. Some of us are simply happier being quiet but thank you to all you regular posters: I really enjoy reading your contributions on so many subjects. This is a wonderful forum/site.

Pat
I will have to say "ditto" for myself WiltshireLandLubbe !
I come to this site for information, but not for social interaction. That's just a fact and who I am. The obligation of answering questions and getting into continuing discussions is a turnoff for me. I avoid sites like Facebook for this very reason. However, I have posted occasionally when I felt I had something useful to contribute. I am VERY thankful and grateful to all those who do post to this site! It is the only one I have used for the 8+ years I have been building models. I look forward to this weekly email, even though I have had to discontinue my model building due to my eye sight.
Many thanks to all the Administrators and all those behind the scenes. Please keep up the splendid work!
 
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