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Hello there from NE Florida!

J

jiopio

Joined
Jul 15, 2026
Messages
24
Points
48

Hello from Florida! New to the community and fairly new to the hobby!
I'm not sure if its frowned upon or not, but I'm starting with GAWEGM kits from amazon. I figured they're cheap enough that if I make a mistake its not a huge problem. I've done one (Halcyon) and it's not horrible. Working on a Harvey now which so far is looking a lot better but still already made some mistakes I didn't think about until I realized it ha.
Overall this is a fun hobby and figured I'd join an online community (you wonderful folks!) to follow and maybe be a part of!

I am on the hunt for a better quality model to get, and I have my eye on quite a few, just not sure what direction I want to go with it just yet. However opinions are appreciated if ya'll have any good recommendations!
 
jiopio said:
I am on the hunt for a better quality model to get, and I have my eye on quite a few, j
Click to expand...
First, WELCOME ABOARD!!!
As you are beginner, READ READ READ the many posts here on beginner models. Based on seeing finished models, the David Antscherl designed three boat series from Floridian company Model Expo is a terrific way to go. Your choice, your budget, but as you move along there is a vast difference in the quality of models. Research as much as you can before committing to an investment in money and time as there are a lot of ship model manufacturers from which to choose but only a few produce high quality kits.
Again, welcome aboard.
 
AllanKP69 said:
First, WELCOME ABOARD!!!
As you are beginner, READ READ READ the many posts here on beginner models. Based on seeing finished models, the David Antscherl designed three boat series from Floridian company Model Expo is a terrific way to go. Your choice, your budget, but as you move along there is a vast difference in the quality of models. Research as much as you can before committing to an investment in money and time as there are a lot of ship model manufacturers from which to choose but only a few produce high quality kits.
Again, welcome aboard.
Click to expand...
Thanks and of course! Time I have plenty of to do this with (I prefer this over gaming now to disconnect quite a bit). Its more money investment. I figured as with most hobby stuff, the better quality ones are better to learn on but I like that these cheapy ones let me work out some of the technicues a bit!

I'll definitely take a look at Model Expo and see what they have! Thanks again~
 
jiopio said:
cheapy ones let me work out some of the technicues a bit!
Click to expand...
Maybe, maybe not :) Based on many build logs here and elsewhere it appears the cheap poorly designed kits create a lot frustration and bad habits. Regardless, if you are as anxious to learn as most of us are, consider starting a build log and don't hesitate to ask questions.
Good luck!
Allan
 
AllanKP69 said:
Maybe, maybe not :) Based on many build logs here and elsewhere it appears the cheap poorly designed kits create a lot frustration and bad habits. Regardless, if you are as anxious to learn as most of us are, consider starting a build log and don't hesitate to ask questions.
Good luck!
Allan
Click to expand...
May have worded badly but yes i agree, cheapies come with their own layer of difficulty which im aware of and what not :p.

I do think it shelped me understand the basics of planking, gluing, im experimenting with rigging now actually, and the general flow.

I have two better quality ones on the way to me that are still sub 100$ so that when im done with this one i wanna move into a much better quality model lol.

But also hey! I wouldnt be here without em :p
Ill definitely be asking questions as i go!~ thanks
 
Welcome from Central Florida.

Never try to learn with a cheap ship model of an unknown developer.

Start with a "not expensive model " like the Swift from Artesania Latina o a similar one from Model Expo.

With a model like the Swift you will learn all the basic techniques to start you on this hobby. It is of excellent quality and cheap.... in case you screw it. :-)

Here you go: (and there are many on eBay) ~ $40-$50


Best
Daniel
 
Welcome aboard from Connecticut.

I agree with Allen and Doc Tom that the Model expo series is a great way to start. I did the same thing and was happy that I did. If you buy the first kit (the Dory) complete it and send a picture to them of you with the completed kit they will gove you full credit for the cost deducted from your next build. The instructions are very clear and explain a lot. In addition there are many build logs here on SOS you can see of building these kits to get even more advice!

Rob
 
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