• LUCZORAMA SHIPWRECK SCAVENGER HUNT GIVEAWAY. 4 Weeks of Fun • 1 Legendary Prize ((OcCre’s Fram Ship)) • Global Crew Welcome!
    **VIEW THREAD HERE**

Frustrated

Last post didnt go very well "M". Try again. My wife plays clarinet and I found that I can slice her used reeds (Bamboo) into various widths as needed. They are quite durable. I found they are very good with contact cement as they are flexible and you can apply thin coats with ease. Work pretty much with any type of glue. You just have to get past the spit factor of used reeds. You can get new ones on eBay pretty cheap, < $10.00 for 10.
 
Hoss6262 said:
This is a very familiar story for modelers. I think we all strive to learn the things we don't know and improve the skills we do have. That sometimes comes at a price, frustration. I would venture to say EVERY modeler, even the masters, has become frustrated at least once on EVERY model project. I have experienced countless times I've made the same piece/component more than 3 times. With each new version is better, but costs so many "frustration points". I think "how" a modeler works through this frustration largely depends on their personality and experience.

There are a few options.

Option 1: (recommended)
Uwek's suggestion. Share the challenge your currently faced with. There is an incredible amount of knowledge amongst the members of this site. They are very happy to help!

Option 2: (not recommended for fist time builders)
If you feel the need to pause your work, do so. But I would offer a small warning. Starting another model could actually add to frustrations. Keep in mind you will now have 2 sets of wood, small intricate parts, all needing to be kept separate and organized. Also, keep in mind, as stated, "EVERY modeler, even the masters, has become frustrated at least once on EVERY model project.", it is just a matter of time when you run into that little or big challenge on the new model where you have to once again work through it. Hmm which option will you choose? ;)

Option 3: (viable)
Pause your work on the area you're having difficulty with. Instead of starting a new project, focus on another element of your ship that can be done independently. Perhaps guns and carriages. Maybe you can prepare the masts and yards ahead of time and store away. This is what I do. Sometimes while doing these other things I have an epiphany on how I can solve the original problem. Personally, I know starting another model will most likely cause me more frustration. I am currently working on three areas of my current model project simultaneously. Not my default mode, but my "frustration management mode". ROTF

I really enjoy problem solving, always have. At 67, it helps exercise my mind and keep me mentally sharp. Well, I guess "mentally sharp" is a relative term. Let's say sharper than if I didn't model. ROTF There is this old saying; "the harder the squeeze, the sweeter the juice". Which I truly believe and experience often. The more difficult the challenge, the more rewarding the feeling of accomplishment is once I've worked through it. Hence, I attempt to work though things on my own. I do request help when I've become completely stumped. But before that, I attempt to research, google, read anything I can to find the answer I am currently seeking. This certainly slows my progress down. But, I'm not building a model ship for a sales order with a deadline. I do it for myself. :)

I hope this long post helps is some way. Don't let the frustration sour you to the hobby. Post, share your issue. I can guarantee there will be many folks that have experienced the very challenge you're facing and you will most likely receive more than one possible solution that they found worked.

Cheers,
Ken
Click to expand...
Ken, good advice! The operative concept is well stated: “ I'm not building a model ship for a sales order with a deadline. I do it for myself.” Have fun!
 
Jeff T said:
I typically only have one model at a time under construction. That being said, I will often have the next one on the shelf. When I need a break from physically building, I research the next one making notes about things I want to remember. Sometimes when I am in the latter stages of rigging, I will start the next one as there are 2 different skill sets involved in these tasks.

I have been keeping small amounts (around 0.5ml) of thin CA glue in microcentrifuge tubes using a forked metal tool to apply small amounts of the glue. For white glue I use an old screwdriver to remove excess glue that gets pressed out when parts are squeezed together.
Click to expand...
For white glue application, I use these things that look like 5cc syringes, with a long curved tip. When not in use, I plug the hole in the small, curved applicator end with a thumb tack. Easy to refill, and really good for applying glue in very controlled amounts and tight locations. For cleaning up surplus glue, I take scrap ends from primary hull planking (the thicker planks), and laid flat, I cut the end off at a 45 degree angle. That gives me a variety of sides and edges I can use to scrape away any unwanted glue, so long as I do so before it sets. Otherwise, it becomes some skilful surgery with an X-acto knife.
 
Dorman said:
BlimeyBob:
I wondered about the same thing as you. Many years ago, I thought I was less than diligent for having 2, 3, or even 4 models in the works simultanously. This insightful lady told me it is absolutely fine to have several ships, dollhouses, carvings and so on going at the same time because humans need a change-up in order to maintain the love we have for our hobby. She reasoned it was far better to have a few projects going than to waste a ridiculous amount of time trying to get a recharge when I could be productive doing SOMETHING!
Go ahead and start a new project! It is far better to start afresh on a new project than to develop an aversion for the hobby you previously loved so well.
Click to expand...
Dorman, I know we have many folks with multiple hobbies but your only the second I have seen list building doll houses as a hobby. I also have built several for my kids, and grandkids. A fun but frustrating hobby for sure.
 
as a modeller for quite a few years .Frustration comes to all of us. I found that put the ship at that stage on the shelf ,don't look at it for at least a couple of weeks. Then when you do get down, it is remarkable how well behaved it is and thing go on smoothly.
 
Kurt Konrath said:
I have 2-3 going at a time, some hull phase, some rigging, some in just pondering what to do next.

As for glue issues, use small brush, toothpicks or small applicator bottle, I found a set of small bottle with thin metal needle like tips at Hobby Lobby, but other craft stores may have them. I also use Micro Brush to dab small bits of glue on joints. Then keep moist towels handy to wipe excess off before it dries.
Click to expand...
I swear by (not at) the small bottles from Hobby Lobby IMG_3175.jpeg
 
I have seven benches in my basement workshop left over from my antique restoration career. Sometimes I had a couple of guys working for/with me.
That job demanded focus, determination and a will to get things completed. After all my job description was "Finisher" There was always a customer waiting on the other end, and NOT with limitless patience. In order to make ends meet there HAD to be more than one project going on at the same time.
There was no walking away for any length of time, but I did learn the value of the admonition "Sleep on it...")
Well that occupation eventually went the way of all flesh and my focus and occupation shifted to ship models, both restoration, which helped pay the bills and was a great source of learning because you never had to start from the very beginning, but you did have to sort out a myriad of different, sometimes vexing problems, and my own projects. I had two very physically large and demanding ship model restoration projects going on simultaneously for about eight years, plus my own projects. And at the same time, volunteering as a model shipwright at the USNA museum model workshop.
Now I'm done with restoration. I want to create what I want to create.

But nature, as with a vacuum, abhors an unused flat surface. So, yes I do often have several projects going on at the same time ,or at least overlapping. Most recently it was J class America's Cup contenders, building the challenger and defender at the same time, but they were very much alike in design and configuration ,so there was a unifying theme.

Lately, however, I find just being on this forum satisfies my modelling itch and my latest model, Shamrock V languishes on my work table waiting for me to completely redo its sails. At least 40 hours of work in the bin. But, hey, the first batch just weren't very good. It can wait. Nobody's waiting for me to deliver it. So it can sit. I WILL finish it.....If I live long enough. If not,...who cares?

Be kind to yourself, Pete :cool:
 
Last edited:
seadeep said:
Until this past winter, I had always worked on one model and ground through it till it was finished. Then on to the next. That mindset has now changed, and I'm thankful for considering dual concurrent builds.

Back story: I started a Corel 1:98 scale HMS Victory close to 30 years ago. Got about a third into the first layer of planking and parked it. And so it sat for three decades. This past winter I decided to put on my big boy pants and get on with it. No more excuses. So as I was working on the first layer of hull planking, and since I was only laying two planks per side per night, I decided to tackle one of the kits I' had stashed away in the closet. That other kit was much smaller and should have been an easy build and something I could putter around on to get more modelling hours in. That other kit is the Artesania Latina Chinese Junk "Red Dragon". It was a purchase from decades ago as well, and in line with your current frustration you're facing with your model, this one too has had more than a few "challenges". I notice they're done a second version of the kit, so hopefully the parts have improved with the second one. The things I'm alluding to are things like poorly fitting parts (lanterns that you're supposed to fit a brass ring through to hang, but don't have any holes pre-drilled to do so), and in general not the greatest materials or instructions.

Now as I progress on the second layer of planking on the Victory, the goal post is in sight on the Red Dragon, and I envision she'll be completed before end of August.

What I would recommend, as others here have, is to toss your issue out to the forum and seek suggestions. I've done it, and the folks here are a great resource. If you're stuck trying to figure something out, just try to look at it from a fresh perspective... when you're not frustrated. When you're relaxed, grab a coffee and slowly peruse your plans and instructions and you may find you'll be able to figure out the solution. Also consider searching for photos of the completed kit, as those images may also provide insight into how to address or fit something. Additionally, sometimes it doesn't hurt to deviate from the plans or instructions, so long as the end result works for you. Specific to the Red Dragon, the instructions and materials call for the use of a lot of fine steel wire to connect blocks to other fittings. IMHO, that's crap (pardon my language), so I've switched up to using rigging line.

Lastly, if you want to make life easier in some regards, consider buying a small lithium battery powered rechargeable drill. I found a nice one on Amazon that holds a charge for a decent amount of time and has a good variety of drill speeds. I also sourced a good collection of small drill bits pre-mounted in collets and colour coded to size. Also from Amazon as a reasonable price. If you want more info, just PM me and I'll give you links to the ones I purchased. I still have a small hand held manual jeweller's drill that I use in situations where I need more control over what I'm doing.

I hope the suggestions provided by myself and others helps, and we're always here for you if you need us.
Click to expand...
 
For those that might be interested, I found these dental irrigation syringes on Amazon, which are pretty much identical to the ones I purchased at a local hobby shop. The only difference being the ones on amazon are less expensive, and come individually wrapped. When filled with glue (I use a product called Weldbond), and in between uses, I slide a thumbtack into the end of the nozzle to close it off and prevent the glue from drying out and clogging it. To fill (and refill) with glue, I simply pull the plunger completely out, remove any excess glue from around the black rubber seal, squirt more glue in and then stand it upright with the tip facing up. That allows the air bubble to move from the plunger up to the tip where you can clear out the air and begin gluing again. I typically get around 10 to 15 fills out of each one before the rubber gasket starts to grip a bit inside the syringe barrel. Inexpensive and very useful glue applicator tool.


And this is the Weldbond glue product. Relatively quick adhesion, washes off with water, goes on white but dries hard and clear. Probably best to see if your local hardware store carries it as the Amazon price is a bit higher.

 
BlimeyBob said:
Was wondering if anyone works on more than one model, I like modeling but am getting really frustrated with the one Im on. Also in the topic, how do you keep the glue neat and clean on small parts. Thanks for letting me vent.
Click to expand...

I have two going at the same time....but each in a different location. Roughly two weeks each month in each location.
 
TKAM said:
I have two going at the same time....but each in a different location. Roughly two weeks each month in each location.
Click to expand...
I do the same, working in Colorado for most of the year and also in Puerto Vallarta. Two locations, two ships, two sets (ouch) of tools & supplies.

I understand the frustration and so far having the 2 different ships to work on has worked for me.

I recently picked up another ship (giving me 2 in the states to work on) but am holding off on doing anything with the new one, other than an inventory of parts. My thought process right now is to only work on the two, at least until I get to the rigging or get to a point where I don’t feel comfortable moving it around.

At that point, I’ll start the 2nd stateside ship and it will become the ship I bring to my local club’s workshop day (first Saturday of each month).
 
Diverdan said:
I always have one on the shelf that pisses me off. If you ask my wife she'd say more like 6 lol.
Click to expand...
If its any help, I put a blob of glue on a bit plastic card waste and use a very fine jewellers flathead screwdriver. You can then get the tiniest amount of glue where you want it and clean the driver blade with a scalpel blade when you've done.
 
Maybe the model you are working on is not right for you?
I know i have been there before. I just didn't like the model.
 
Jack Sparrow said:
Maybe the model you are working on is not right for you?
I know i have been there before. I just didn't like the model.
Click to expand...
Could be. I hit a bad patch when building Panart's Armed Pinnace, not so much frustration but annoyance at how bad the kit quality was. I finished it and am pleased with the result, but will never touch another Panart model.
 
BlimeyBob said:
Was wondering if anyone works on more than one model, I like modeling but am getting really frustrated with the one Im on. Also in the topic, how do you keep the glue neat and clean on small parts. Thanks for letting me vent.
Click to expand...
Hallo @BlimeyBob
I hope, that there is no frustration any more, and you are working on your projects?
we wish you all the BEST and a HAPPY BIRTHDAY
Birthday-Cake
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top