Question: Why do some people feel model ship building needs a wider audience?

[Jimsky]

Nobody's proposing "gatekeeping." That's the affirmative effort of keeping people away. At the other end of the spectrum, is lowering standards so an endeavor becomes "accessible" to a much larger number of people. It's not the larger number of people that's the problem at all. It's the lowering of standards that has a negative impact. This is precisely why so many golf courses, for example, are "exclusive." Nobody who is a good golfer wants to have to play behind a foursome of drunk "duffers." This is why pro golf is very profitably televised. People want to watch the pros play, not the players who "just play for fun." If everybody played golf "just for fun," few would have any interest in following it on television.

Bob, I see what you’re aiming at with your analogy, though I’d suggest ship modeling doesn’t quite fit into the same framework as professional sports like golf (or others). The idea of "lowering standards" assumes there is a single universal standard in this hobby, but that's not really the case, mon ami!
In truth, ship modeling encompasses a wide range of approaches and goals, media, and materials. Some builders pursue historical accuracy to the finest detail (myself one of those); others are simply in it for the joy of building. Each modeler has their own set of expectations and what I’d call a personal acceptance level, criteria you set for yourself regarding the quality of your work. It helps balance between precision and practicality. That doesn’t equate to a decline in quality, it reflects the diversity of motivations and skill levels that actually enrich the hobby.

Of course, when it comes to competitions, standards must be respected, because each event comes with its own specific rules and classifications. NAVIGA sets the standards for various types of model boat classifications, rules, and competitions. Models are typically classified based on several factors such as size, type of vessel, propulsion, and purpose. Models entered into competitions are judged accordingly, and participants know they need to meet those benchmarks if they want to compete seriously. One of the NAVIGA judges is our member @Frank48 Franchesko; he can confirm.

But outside of that setting, there’s room for everyone! Encouraging broader participation doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, it means recognizing that excellence can take many forms.

 

[Jimsky]

I think celebrating an "elite" in any artform or sport is exactly the engine which draws participants. Some aspire to themselves become one of the top participants someday, while others participate just to imagine themselves being one of the "elite" players, even though they know they aren't. Without a "pecking order," anything just becomes "another ordinary thing." It's not about discouraging beginners, it's about attracting them. What draws millions to play basketball isn't that schoolyard courts are widely available. What fills those courts are the elite players of the NBA! There's nothing wrong with being a lousy basketball player, but it isn't the lousy players that make the game interesting. Any artform, sport, or similar endeavor... even cooking, is driven by its "masters" who make it fun for the rest of us. For an artform or similar endeavor to attract "new blood" over time, it must be aspirational.

I think comparing ship modeling, a hobby pursued largely for personal satisfaction, to professional sports like the NBA, NHL, and golf is a stretch! All of the pro sports are an entertainment industry that thrives on spectacle, contracts, and competition. Ship modeling, on the other hand, is more about craftsmanship, history, patience, and personal expression.
It’s not that people shouldn’t aspire to improve or admire exceptional work. But labeling everything in terms of “elite” risks turning a creative, peaceful pursuit into a competitive hierarchy, which can discourage just as easily as it can inspire. Many builders, some quite talented, aren’t interested in recognition or being “top participants”; they just want to enjoy their build, share it, and connect with others.

Let’s keep it welcoming and aspirational without insisting there's only value in being among the so-called elite. After all, enjoyment and learning are valid goals in themselves.

 

[Jimsky]

Oh Boy..... How is that for being controversial. That last sentence may get me into trouble.

What is really needed is not an effort to widening the audience but the expansion of what so many seem to despise... "the elite" who should have more presence within the model ship building community.

I strongly disagree. Suggesting that what this hobby needs is more of “the elite” is exactly the kind of thinking that narrows the field and alienates the broader community. Model shipbuilding is not an Olympic sport, and trying to treat it like one, where a select few are put on pedestals, does nothing but suck the joy and openness out of it.
People build ships models for many reasons: history, curiosity, relaxation, craftsmanship, or just plain fun. To imply that the hobby must orbit around some elite few is not only arrogant, it’s counterproductive. This mindset doesn’t inspire, it intimidates. It doesn't elevate standards, it enforces conformity to one narrow definition of what "good" looks like.


I think, IMHO, we should be celebrating dedication, growth, and community, not pretending this is some exclusive club that newcomers should feel lucky to enter. That’s not aspiration, that’s exclusion in disguise. Ouch!!!

 

[Zzyzx01]

^^^^^^^.... I agree with Jim.

 

[Frank48]

Bob, I see what you’re aiming at with your analogy, though I’d suggest ship modeling doesn’t quite fit into the same framework as professional sports like golf (or others). The idea of "lowering standards" assumes there is a single universal standard in this hobby, but that's not really the case, mon ami!
In truth, ship modeling encompasses a wide range of approaches and goals, media, and materials. Some builders pursue historical accuracy to the finest detail (myself one of those); others are simply in it for the joy of building. Each modeler has their own set of expectations and what I’d call a personal acceptance level, criteria you set for yourself regarding the quality of your work. It helps balance between precision and practicality. That doesn’t equate to a decline in quality, it reflects the diversity of motivations and skill levels that actually enrich the hobby.

Of course, when it comes to competitions, standards must be respected, because each event comes with its own specific rules and classifications. NAVIGA sets the standards for various types of model boat classifications, rules, and competitions. Models are typically classified based on several factors such as size, type of vessel, propulsion, and purpose. Models entered into competitions are judged accordingly, and participants know they need to meet those benchmarks if they want to compete seriously. One of the NAVIGA judges is our member @Frank48 Franchesko; he can confirm.

But outside of that setting, there’s room for everyone! Encouraging broader participation doesn’t mean sacrificing quality, it means recognizing that excellence can take many forms.

Hi Jim , NAVIGA's International regulation is very demanding, sorry if I say few things (......), the rule point 1 presentation of the design of the existing or existed ship, real compliance of the scale model , any modification must be documented.For Kits is a whole other judging system.Frank

 

[Jimsky]

Hi Jim , NAVIGA's International regulation is very demanding, sorry if I say few things (......), the rule point 1 presentation of the design of the existing or existed ship, real compliance of the scale model , any modification must be documented.For Kits is a whole other judging system.Frank

Thank you, Franchesko. Yes, I am well aware of those crazy rules. The point is, if you want to participate, you must follow the rules.

 

[shipbuilder]

Audience
1 - a gathering of spectators or listeners at a (usually public) performance.
2 - the part of the general public interested in a source of information or entertainment.
There are other definitions but these 2 are surely the most relevent...

Because of where I stood before posting the question....
The funny thing is that "widening the audience" naturally takes place when what many consider the "elite" is more present by showing their work: that work becomes motivation for the aspiring viewer. In some cases, it is a bonus when these people (whatever one may want to call them) document their work by some explanations. If the individual aspiring viewer is motivated for his or her self-development, being technical or otherwise, this information becomes trully valuable.

I will not address the commercial side of wishing to "widen the audience" as I think most modelers partake in building models for their own private and personal enjoyments. Although yes, the availability of more plans, more kits, more tools, etc... may be nice for the modeler, but on a commercial point of view, the best way to widen the audience is to advertise their goods within the existing "audience" (community) and hope to suck-in more modelers (existing and new to the hobby modelers) with their offerings.

So the two are different and may be the subject of separate discussions.

Here is a link to model ship history. I know..... it is Wikipedia.... it may not be totally accurate and probably does not cover everything, but I do think that, contrary to the belief has been in decline, the community has grown and continues to grow exponentially. Again, the membership here or other forum is likely to be just the tip of the iceberg.
And I would encourage all to read (unfortunately for some here, the english version seems to be the most detailed)

Ship model - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

What is really needed is not an effort to widening the audience but the expansion of what so many seem to despise... "the elite" who should have more presence within the model ship building community.

Oh Boy..... How is that for being controversial. That last sentence may get me into trouble.

Anyways,
Kindest regards to all.

Keep the discussion going round and around...

G.

Who decides who is "elite" and who is not?

 

[Jimsky]

Who decides who is "elite" and who is not?

Good question, perhaps Bob can weigh in, as he's a strong advocate for turning our hobby into an elite pursuit.

 

[Dave Stevens (Lumberyard)]

Who decides who is "elite" and who is not?
good point and now we drift in another direction we decide and i would suggest the elite was established a few 100 years ago with the artisans who built the admiralty models now in museums. That is the gold standard.
to start a list let's look for all the builders who won in international competitions. It would be those builders who stand out as accomplished artisans

 

[Dave Stevens (Lumberyard)]

I heartily agree. Beating a dead horse!

it is more like beating at a Pinata for the last 25 years hoping some new insight will fall out.

 

[Jimsky]

good point and now we drift in another direction we decide and i would suggest the elite was established a few 100 years ago with the artisans who built the admiralty models now in museums. That is the gold standard.
to start a list let's look for all the builders who won in international competitions. It would be those builders who stand out as accomplished artisans

That’s an interesting perspective, Dave. But I’ll respectfully disagree, particularly with the repeated use of the word “standard,” and now we have yet another standard - "Gold Standard." The idea that admiralty models in museums represent some universal “gold standard” doesn’t quite apply to the modern hobby. Those historic pieces were made under vastly different circumstances, often by professional artisans working with institutional support and for specific purposes. They can be admired, certainly, but they don’t define the only way to build ship models.
More importantly, in a hobby context, especially when a model isn’t being entered in competition, who decides what constitutes the “gold standard”? Everyone sets their own expectations, follows their own interests, and finds satisfaction at different levels. That personal standard is what really counts, not Gold or Elite.

Does this model of the galleon housed in the British Museum represent a Gold Standard?



Competitions do need rules and judging criteria, so “standards” make sense there. But outside of that, trying to impose a singular elite benchmark only discourages others and narrows the spirit of the hobby.

Honestly, I give up trying to convince some folks of this. It feels pointless, they’re too deeply invested in one rigid view of the craft. And that's fine, but it’s just not the only way to enjoy ship modeling.

 

[shipbuilder]

Good question, perhaps Bob can weigh in, as he's a strong advocate for turning our hobby into an elite pursuit.

I am definitely not "Elite" I have just chosen a neglected field that not many ship model builders interested in!

 

[Roger Pellett]

Advancing participation: A while ago Model Expo ran an ad in Smithsonian Magazine. It was tasteful and avoided the more annoying aspects of the commercialized end if the model ship building hobby; pirates, yo ho heave ho, etc.

More importantly Model Expo obviously spent their money introducing model to the demographic who might actually buy model kits; mature well educated people with disposable income.

If we need to increase participation, and I still see no reason why we should or need to than it’s companies like Model Expo who are best equipped to do it.

Gold Standard: I generally enjoy Dave Stevens’s posts, but in this I think that he’s describing the Elephant by only touching one leg! The dockyard type model might be the gold standard for the Seventeenth Century Warship genre but does that mean that a highly detailed, historically accurate steamship model will always be second class?

Modeling Stuff: Thanks to the internet, quality tools and materials have never been more available. Sadly, tools aimed at ship modelers often don’t measure up to those sold to other trades; jewelers, watchmakers, etc. Do we need to increase participation in order for someone to invent an improved Loom a Line?

Roger

 

[shipbuilder]

Who decides who is "elite" and who is not?
good point and now we drift in another direction we decide and i would suggest the elite was established a few 100 years ago with the artisans who built the admiralty models now in museums. That is the gold standard.
to start a list let's look for all the builders who won in international competitions. It would be those builders who stand out as accomplished artisans

I gave up entering competitions years ago, because I never won - just the odd "highly commended!" I haven't exhibited anything for years when my local ship society put on displays. I was just happy to "go my own way."

 

[Bob Cleek]

I think, IMHO, we should be celebrating dedication, growth, and community, not pretending this is some exclusive club that newcomers should feel lucky to enter. That’s not aspiration, that’s exclusion in disguise. Ouch!!!

 

[Gilles Korent]

The "more the merrier"

I gave up entering competitions years ago, because I never won - just the odd "highly commended!" I haven't exhibited anything for years when my local ship society put on displays. I was just happy to "go my own way."

And you need to commended for that.... Going your own way...
G.

 

[JerryTodd]

If you're a group, like a club, I get the need to recruit more members; or the club will die. I ran a Civil War reenacting group for near 40 years, and basically everything we did was with an eye to recruiting. We got uncountable "inquiries" from people that didn't really have an honest interest in what we were doing.


What folks seem to be talking about here, at least at the start, isn't getting people into "our club," but interested in the hobby, in general. First off, it's not all one hobby. There's enough sub-sets of model ship building to make your head spin, and if you're entrenched in your particular aspect of it, such as "admiralty style" models, it's most likely you'll be recruiting for your interest. What if that scares off the potential recruit that may have found nirvana building plastic kits, which you had no interest in?

We here are here because we had a real interest in something. I wanted to work on sailing vessels since I was in single digits, and reading, drawing, and modeling were the only access a street kid like me had. When I finally did work on these vessels, I never lost interest in reading, drawing, and modeling them. No one recruited me into a hobby, I went looking for it.

If you go looking for people to recruit, you'll mostly get people who'll can't or won't make anything, they just like looking, and almost all of them won't know what they're looking at. You know them, they're always gushing at AI pictures, stacks of Legos, and anything with pirate flags. They don't know which end of the screw-driver goes in which end of the nail, and are you personally going to baby-sit them for half-a-day until their attention runs out?

There are people out there who have a deep interest and a yearn to learn, but aren't aware of the hobby because the Internet only shows the garbage when you search. If you want those people, the key is visibility. As I said, my Civil War group did everything with an eye to recruiting, but we only wanted people with a real interest in what we did, and we "marketed" ourselves to that end;

We are NOT a "family oriented" organization, we are a 19th century MILITARY oriented organization. If your being a reenactor requires your family and baggage to be dragged along, please scan our links page for one of the many "family oriented" organizations you'll find there.

By making our group visible and accessible, people came to us, and by being up-front with them, we got quality members that made keeping the standards of the unit easy. I'm sure we sent a lot of bodies to groups that were only interested in getting bodies, but a few of those folks came back after experiencing a group that really didn't care.
There's a few forums like Ships of Scale, Model Ship World, and I'm sure some that are "foreign language" sites to me, that offer viewing, participating, learning, comradery, and more; and in my opinion are the best resource for anyone with interests in maritime modeling than any thing else on the Internet. Facebook and YouTube aren't destinations, they are sign-posts to lead interested people here, and eye-candy for those that just want to look.

When I started building Constellation I built a web-site to document it because I was getting emails from people doing similar projects, or an interest in doing it but felt it cost more than they could manage to try. I parallel much of that site on on forums like this because I want folks that wish they could to see they can, ie "If I can do this, anybody can."

In short, I think making ourselves visible and accessible to those already looking for us will do more to "grow the hobby" than dragging people with only a passing interest into buying an expensive kit that'll never get built and only serve to sour their opinion of it.

 

[Dave Stevens (Lumberyard)]

there is a huge amount of people into kit building. Many do not participate in on line forums or web sites. They may google for information but that's it. This is the ghost majority we here on a forum never hear from them. Even looking at the forum we see a steady number of guests and many members never make a single post. We have no idea what the majority are doing.

the kit hobby in general is alive and well and growing
In short, I think making ourselves visible and accessible to those already looking for us will do more to "grow the hobby" than dragging people with only a passing interest into buying an expensive kit that'll never get built and only serve to sour their opinion of it.

to draw attention to the model ship part of the hobby it is being done by the Nautical Research Guild they run a web site, publish a journal and hobby magazine, they offer projects, a forum, they have a network of clubs,

we are part of a billion dollar industry

The model ships kits market is valued at approximately USD 2.48 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 3.31 billion by 20332. Ship model kits are made of plastic and wood and require assembly and painting. The global model kits market is projected to grow steadily. Ship model kits are primarily imported into the United States from China, England, and the European Union5.

MODEL KITS MARKET REPORT OVERVIEW
The model kits market size was valued at approximately USD 2.48 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 3.31 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 3.5% from 2025 to 2033.

The model kits market offers a great variety in scales and types that would help hobbyists and enthusiasts assemble and detail precise replicas of vehicles, aircraft, ships, military equipment, and figures. This market is fueled by a combination of nostalgia, educational value, and intricate craft associated with model assembly. In its products, it offers an extensive array of finely detailed models with diverse subjects that can satisfy the changing hobbyist need.

The market of model kits has been on the rise due to renewed interest in hobby activities and increased disposable income. Secondly, e-commerce bridged the gap between producers and consumers across geographical boundaries. Moreover, advanced technologies, including 3D printing software and digital design, enable companies to produce very accurate models and more intricate ones easily. The final product is part of the process that is also used as a display piece, which collectors and hobbyists are fond of, ensuring stable demand in this niche market segment but with passionate consumers.

LATEST TRENDS
"Technological innovations and eco-consciousness drive evolution in model kits market"

Some of the emerging trends that are forming in model kits include technology innovations and changes in consumer behavior. One such notable trend is that 3D printing and digital design technologies are increasingly being used to create more elaborate details and custom models. Another trend is the rising interest in limited editions and collector items that appeal to enthusiasts in search of special, unique, and rare pieces. Moreover, environmentally conscious consumers are rapidly demanding green materials and sustainable packaging. Online platforms and social media are also becoming key to community building and sharing, including virtual workshops, tutorials, and competitions. These trends reflect the changing nature of the market toward innovation, sustainability, and greater consumer engagement.

Based on type the global market can be categorized into aircrafts model, cars model, tanks model, ships model, trains model, characters model and other model.

Aircraft Models: Scale models replicating commercial, military, and historical aircraft. These are popular not only with aviation enthusiasts but even history buffs.
Cars Models: These include classic, modern, and racing car models that have a greater appeal among car enthusiasts or car collectors.
Tanks Models: Military tanks across several eras, thus attracting model builders and military history enthusiasts.
Ship Models: From historical sailing vessels to modern naval ships, these find favor among maritime history buffs and other hobbyists.
Train Models: This includes model trains and railways that are rather appealing to railway enthusiasts.
Character Models: Figures from movies, comics, anime, and historic figures, with an appeal to fans of particular franchises or periods in history.
Other Models: These include other miscellaneous categories like space exploration models and fantasy theme kits, catering to special niche interests.
By Application
Based on application the global market can be categorized into online store and offline store.

Online Store: E-commerce platforms that offer tremendous customization with model kits and the facility of home delivery.
Offline Store: The customers can visit these retail outlets physically where they can see the model kits and avail products instantly with proper guidance.

DRIVING FACTORS
"Technological advancements boost market growth"

The adoption of 3D printing and digital design technologies has changed the model kits market growth, now able to realize models with very fine details and complexity, which was earlier impossible or at best very difficult to create. These technologies can be used in making parts that are highly accurate, ensuring finished models produced are life-like and representative of their real-life counterpart. Customization has also been a big trend, with hobbyists now able to modify or produce parts uniquely with 3D printers. This level of detail and customization has also attracted an entirely new generation of enthusiasts who admire the innovation and creativity associated with model building.

"Increased hobby engagement promotes market growth"


MODEL KITS MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS
"Asia-Pacific region dominate global market due to presence of significant manufacturers and large consumer base "

The market is primarily segregated into Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East & Africa.

In 2019, the model kits market share is dominated by the Asia-Pacific region. This is largely attributed to major manufacturers' present within the region and the huge consumer base. This region includes the leaders like Japan, South Korea, and China, which represent the prominent companies producing high-end quality and innovative model kits. In particular, Japan continues to have a rich culture of model building, backed by a strong domestic market and exports to other countries. This region, therefore, becomes a potential hub due to advanced manufacturing capabilities backed by access to the latest technologies and an established supply chain network. Increasing popularity of hobbies and leisure activities amongst the population in emerging economies within the Asia-Pacific region adds to the market growth, thereby strengthening its leading position.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS
"Technological Innovation and Consumer Engagement Propel Market Dominance in the industry"

The key players in model kits lead the market through a combination of innovation, diversification, and strategic engagement. Companies invest in state-of-the-art technologies such as 3D printing and digital design to come up with highly detailed models that could be tailored according to the fastidious tastes of hobbyists. They are also diversifying the product lines into models of aircraft, ships, historical vehicles, military equipment, modern vehicles, and even beloved characters in order to engage different consumer interests. The emphasis on sustainability-oriented activities using environmentally friendly materials and waste reduction also lures more green-minded consumers. Further, these companies' ability to leverage e-commerce platforms and social media venues to reach potential customers worldwide is another growth driver, offering virtual tutorials and building a sense of community. Strategic licensing agreements with popular franchises and a robustly developed global distribution network further enhance their reach and brand loyalty.

List of Market Players Profiled
Tamiya Models (Japan)
Hasegawa Models (Japan)
Academy Models (South Korea)
Italeri S.p.A (Italy)
Revell (United States)
Heller SA (France)
Airfix Models (United Kingdom)
Round 2 (United States)
Moebius (United States)
Aoshima (Japan)
Trumpeter (China)
Bronco Models (China)
Fujimi Mokei (Japan)
Dragon Models (Hong Kong)
MiniArt Models (Ukraine)
Minicraft Models (United States)
Forces of Valor (Hong Kong)
Bachmann Trains (United States)
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
May 2023: Tamiya Models, a Japanese plastic model kit manufacturer and market leader, released a very detailed 1/24 scale model of the Ford GT Mk II. This new edition comes with precision-engineered parts, which very nearly emulate the design of this racing icon and allow for detailed decals and painting guides to help enhance the building experience. This release emphasizes Tamiya's continued commitment to producing model kits of the highest quality and craftsmanship for hobbyists everywhere.

REPORT COVERAGE
It is through model kits market reports that one gets the overview of the industry with market size, share, and growth forecasts. The market segmentation has been carried out based on type as aircraft, cars, tanks, ships, trains, characters, and other models, and based on application, it becomes online stores and offline stores. It further drills down to the main driving and restraining factors, regional insights, and the impact of technological advancements and COVID-19 on dynamics. Furthermore, it profiles top market players along with recent industrial developments.

 

[Dave Stevens (Lumberyard)]

the gold standard

you missed my point or i did not make myself clear

it was not about the ship models i was referring to the artisans who built them, they could have built any model of anything it was about the craftsmanship, skill level attention to the smallest detail. The model was just the end product of their high level of skills that is the gold standard NOT the model itself.

 

[Jack Sparrow]

Really?
I appreciate your point, but I must respectfully disagree. It’s not about simply pointing out mistakes in kits — it's about how the attitude is often presented. When some scratch builders repeatedly emphasize the "shortcuts" and "lack of research" in kits, or even compare kits with " paint by numbers," it can unintentionally come across as dismissive toward kit builders, even if that’s not the intention. There’s a fine line between offering constructive advice and giving the impression that kit building is somehow a lesser form of the craft. Whether someone builds from scratch or a kit, we should recognize the skill, dedication, and passion involved in both paths, each with their challenges and rewards. Check out this post:

an idea to reach more audiences

What do you think about the idea of making a TV program to spread modeling to a wider audience... The masters who are here and have free time can give lessons and practices about modeling... It can also be a source of income for this forum that we are members of... What are your thoughts?

shipsofscale.com

agreed. Not everyone is interested in scratch building. For me and where I am located, scratch building is too expensive. Having said that, I am trying to do some kit bashing which to me is a good alternative to "paint by numbers" and scratch building. BTW I don't find building a kit paint by numbers. You need a certain degree of skill because "things" don't always line up like shown in the instructions.