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

[Jimsky]

I have a theory about this Jim, maybe all of the new people seen all of the work done on the boats.....then started to build their own, wacking a few fingers with a small hammer, or cut their fingers with the xacto knife or even worse, glued their fingers to the boat with ca glue (yeah I'm guilty of all of the above lol) and just can't type.

Haha, that well could be the case! I have to admit, your theory is pretty solid. Whacked knuckles, glued fingers, and mysterious X-Acto scars seem to be part of the shipwright’s initiation ritual. If that’s what’s stopping folks from typing, we might need to start a support group: MWBHA, “Modelers with Bandaged Hands Anonymous.”

Still, all joking aside, I hope they know they’re not alone. We’ve all been there, and those little accidents usually mean you're doing the real thing. So maybe once the glue dries and the Band-Aids come off, they’ll feel ready to say hello.

 

[Jimsky]

For myself, I often don’t have something that contributes to the conversation, so don’t post in it. Starting a build log is intimidating too, though I know theres a lot of leeway in how many pictures/steps to show. Also I’m very introverted and don’t crave attention/likes.

Thank you for sharing, it’s an honest and important perspective.
You're absolutely not alone in feeling that way. Many folks hesitate to post because they think they have to say something "important" or "expert-level" to contribute, but really, even a simple comment like “Looks great!” or “I’m learning a lot from this thread” is more than enough to join the conversation.

As for starting a build log, I get it. It can feel intimidating, especially when you see some of the incredibly detailed ones here. But the beauty of this community is that there's no set rule for how much you have to share. Even one or two pictures, or a brief update like “planking is slow but steady,” can spark connection and encouragement.

And introverted or not, your presence still adds value. You don’t need to seek attention to be appreciated. Just being part of the crew, even quietly, is enough. When and if you do feel like posting, know that you're among friendly shipmates who’ve all been where you are.

You're welcome here, exactly as you are.

 

[Jimsky]

Lurkers are prevalent on every website Jim. It's just the nature of the beast. You are only going to get engagement from about 10% of the people who use the site. And that ten percent includes the top 1 percenters who account for half the content and the rest of 99% who account for the rest. There are a lot of reasons for this. Some people are checking out the hobby to see if it's right for them and then decide it's not. Some aren't engaged in the hobby and never will do a model, but they like seeing the models from time to time. Some don't want to talk about the hobby, they just want to enjoy it quietly. Some don't feel their posts would get any attention anyway. And some are just looking for a technique here and there and don't really frequent the website.

You're absolutely right; this is something that happens across all kinds of online communities, not just ours. That "10% rule" seems to hold true just about everywhere. Some folks are curious, some just like to browse, and others quietly come and go depending on what they need in the moment.
Still, I think it’s worth opening the door a little wider, just in case someone’s on the fence and needs a gentle nudge to join in. Some people might not realize their questions, progress, or even their quiet interest do matter to the rest of us.

Even if most visitors never post, if a thread like this helps just a few feel more comfortable enough to say hello or start a log, or even just leave a comment, then I’d say it’s time well spent. After all, this hobby thrives on sharing, and sometimes it just takes one kind word to bring a new voice to the table.

Thanks again for putting it into perspective. It’s all part of the rhythm of this little digital shipyard we’ve got here.

 

[Jimsky]

Are there any statistics on what fraction of the membership follow up their initial introduction with visits to the site without actually posting anything? As Dave Srevens suggests, they may be making good use of the site for information and guidance. Postings are a record of information flowing into the site but there is no record of how much flows out.

While snapshots may provide a glimpse into user activity, it's important to note that online presence fluctuates throughout the day and doesn't fully represent overall engagement. Many members may not be online simultaneously but still participate actively through posts, build logs, and other contributions.

In summary, while a significant portion of registered users may not be actively posting at any given time, the forum maintains a dedicated core of active participants (close to a 100) who contribute to its vibrant community.

 

[Jimsky]

Interesting discussion Jimsky.
Speaking for myself, I come to SoS to see other builds and mostly am seeking ideas on different building techniques and ways of achieving the inspiring models that so many make.
Amongst the fraternity here there are some exceptional builds and what I want to know is how these magnificent results were achieved. Many if not all post photos, which are informative and beautiful, but often the techniques used to achieve these results are not obvious without luring discussion.
Some members do post how to pictorial threads and these are especially enjoyable to read and learn from, but they are few and far between.
After that is said and done, the friendship and comfort from mingling with like minded individuals the world over and talking about things of detail, that many other people would find boring, is a core attribute of the forum.
I don’t really know any of the folk here on SoS, but strangely I consider all of you as friends.
Maybe I’m weird.

Not weird at all, quite the opposite, my friend. What you’ve just described is exactly what makes this place feel like a little harbor of kindred spirits. I completely agree, seeing the finished models is inspiring, but understanding the “how” behind them is what truly feeds our curiosity and growth. It’s that moment when someone explains their process, shares a jig they made, or gives a tip on how they bent a tricky plank; that’s the real gold.
And you’re right, the detailed how-to or pictorial threads are worth their weight in brass fittings! I often find myself going back to those again and again. Maybe this is something we can all encourage gently, reminding our fellow builders that even the small steps or “imperfect” techniques might be just what someone else is hoping to learn.
As for the friendship here, I feel exactly the same way. We may be oceans apart and have never met in person, but the shared passion for ships and the respect we show each other really builds something meaningful.


So no, you're not weird, you’re one of us. And I’m glad you’re here.

 

[Jimsky]

I don't post often. My main motivation is to let folks who do post build logs here know how much I appreciate their work. There are some builds I really enjoy following and I think it is important to let folks know that. I have a build log going elsewhere, but I build so slowly that I think one build log is enough, better not to disappoint folks at two or more sites. My next build, I'll start my log here, since I find myself increasingly visiting this site first.

Thank you for sharing this - it really means a lot.
Even if you don’t post often, the fact that you take the time to show appreciation for others’ work is huge. Build logs takes effort, and knowing someone is enjoying and learning from them is the kind of fuel that keeps many of us going.
Totally understand building slowly, too many of us are in that boat (pun intended ). There’s absolutely no pressure to update often or keep up a fast pace. Just sharing a small part of your journey when you’re ready is more than enough. Personally, I have a few build logs opened for a long time, but due to various reasons cannot continue for now...
And if you decide to start your next log here, we’ll be looking forward to it! No matter how slow the progress, you’ve already got shipmates here who’d be happy to follow along.

Glad you’re finding this place a good fit, it wouldn’t be the same without voices like yours.

 

[Jimsky]

SOS has been a game changer as it allows me to correspond daily with other builders.

That says it perfectly - a game changer indeed!

There’s something really special about being able to chat daily with others who understand the joy (and sometimes the struggle!) of this hobby. Whether it's sharing progress, asking for advice, or just trading a bit of shipyard banter, it makes all the difference.

Glad to have you here, this crew wouldn’t be the same without you!

 

[Jack Sparrow]

I would say that some people just want to read the posts and not post themselves. Maybe they are just looking for advice on something?
I do that sometimes, but I feel guilty not contributing anything when I know the answer to a question.

Language barrier too maybe?

 

[MThomas]

 

[Mwentling]

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….

 

[Zarthabal]

Thank you for sharing, it’s an honest and important perspective.
You're absolutely not alone in feeling that way. Many folks hesitate to post because they think they have to say something "important" or "expert-level" to contribute, but really, even a simple comment like “Looks great!” or “I’m learning a lot from this thread” is more than enough to join the conversation.

As for starting a build log, I get it. It can feel intimidating, especially when you see some of the incredibly detailed ones here. But the beauty of this community is that there's no set rule for how much you have to share. Even one or two pictures, or a brief update like “planking is slow but steady,” can spark connection and encouragement.

And introverted or not, your presence still adds value. You don’t need to seek attention to be appreciated. Just being part of the crew, even quietly, is enough. When and if you do feel like posting, know that you're among friendly shipmates who’ve all been where you are.

You're welcome here, exactly as you are.

Thanks for the encouragement Jimsky.
I am in the same proverbial boat - I often feel I don’t have much to contribute, especially being a beginner, and am intimidated as well.
That said, I am a loyal, appreciative lurker, and read the forums almost daily.
I will take your advice and post more often to signal my presence. The virtual “pulling up a chair” expression always cracks me up - I’ll stop sitting in the shadows and get in the front row.
Regarding build logs, I am wondering what people think: is there value in doing build logs of models that have already been extensively built and logged many times in the past?

 

[DaveT]

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 read this site daily and gain a lot of useful information from it. I find that viewing other peoples versions of ships that I am building often helps me, but I don't post my building efforts because they are no better or worse than anyone else's. I am currently building Caldercraft's Diana, I am at the rigging stage in the 17th month of the build, as I am long into retirement I am able to get several hours of work in on most days. It keeps my mind active and I love it.

 

[ConsNZ]

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.

Hi Jim,
Personally I would love to post but in most cases the standard of workmanship is so outstanding that it leaves me dumbstruck and unable to comment, lacking in words mainly since I have no idea regarding nautical technical terms or have the ability or knowledge (of craftmanship/carpentry) to make an intelligent comment or have input. Yes, I lurk and learn and ‘Like’ to show appreciation for the exceptional work displayed. To me everything I see is exquisite, superb, precise and a show piece of outstanding quality. SOS offers so many posts for viewing that I find it impossible to follow all. In say that, there are a handful of members I try to religiously follow due to their work having the most relevance to what I endeavor to accomplish or rather, more correctly, mangle and destroy on my little student desktop, workshop.

I have learnt much from SOS posts and no doubt, hopefully learn more as time progresses not only by ship model building and assembly but also of related workings such as the use of hobby machinery, various tools and methods whilst not forgetting the enjoyment of the subtle humour that occasionally infiltrates threads.

Yes, I would enjoy commenting or commenting more but I feel there is a great lack of my understanding to what I see other than my mind saying “Wow! member, that is so fantastic and brilliantly done, Oh how I wish I could do that, or be so neat and tidy”.

Very interesting topic BTW. – Cheers.

 

[AllanKP69]

I don't post often.

If, like you, I lived on the Jersey shore, I would be very happy to just be out striper fishing or hanging at the beach. Miss being down the shore at times........
Allan

 

[GaryA]

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..
..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................
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.

 

[Jimsky]

Regarding build logs, I am wondering what people think: is there value in doing build logs of models that have already been extensively built and logged many times in the past?

That's a great question, Zarthabad, and one I’ve thought about myself.

I truly believe there's always value in a build log, even if the kit has been built a hundred times before. Why? Because you haven’t built it yet. Your approach, your observations, your challenges, and your solutions are unique, and that makes your log worthwhile. We learn from each other!
Every builder sees and experiences the process differently. What might seem routine to a veteran could be a revelation to someone just starting. And sometimes, it’s not about a groundbreaking technique, it’s about sharing the journey, building community, and encouraging others along the way.
Another big advantage, if you ever hit a snag or make a mistake, posting a log makes it much easier for others to spot it and offer helpful advice before it becomes a bigger problem. Also, you never know who might stumble upon your log at just the right time. That one photo or comment you share could be the spark that keeps someone else going.

So yes, log away, even if it’s a well-worn path. It’s still your voyage, and we’d be lucky to come aboard.

 

[Stevinne]

Thanks for the encouragement Jimsky.
I am in the same proverbial boat - I often feel I don’t have much to contribute, especially being a beginner, and am intimidated as well.
That said, I am a loyal, appreciative lurker, and read the forums almost daily.
I will take your advice and post more often to signal my presence. The virtual “pulling up a chair” expression always cracks me up - I’ll stop sitting in the shadows and get in the front row.
Regarding build logs, I am wondering what people think: is there value in doing build logs of models that have already been extensively built and logged many times in the past?

I for one find great value in multiple logs, since each builder brings something to the build - even if it is just a different paint scheme, it provides food for thought and frequently the builder adds a touch or shows a technique I hadn't thought of before.

 

[Jimsky]

I read this site daily and gain a lot of useful information from it. I find that viewing other peoples versions of ships that I am building often helps me, but I don't post my building efforts because they are no better or worse than anyone else's. I am currently building Caldercraft's Diana, I am at the rigging stage in the 17th month of the build, as I am long into retirement I am able to get several hours of work in on most days. It keeps my mind active and I love it.

Sounds like you're exactly the kind of builder whose experience would be valuable to others. Whether your work is "better or worse" doesn’t matter; it's yours, and that alone makes it worth sharing. The purpose of a build log is not to showcase your skills, it's to share the journey. We don't have competitions, we're here to help!
Diana is a beautiful ship, and I’d bet many would love to see how you’re handling the rigging stage. Glad to hear the hobby brings you joy and keeps the mind sharp, same here!

 

[Jimsky]

Hi Jim,
Personally I would love to post but in most cases the standard of workmanship is so outstanding that it leaves me dumbstruck and unable to comment, lacking in words mainly since I have no idea regarding nautical technical terms or have the ability or knowledge (of craftmanship/carpentry) to make an intelligent comment or have input. Yes, I lurk and learn and ‘Like’ to show appreciation for the exceptional work displayed. To me everything I see is exquisite, superb, precise and a show piece of outstanding quality. SOS offers so many posts for viewing that I find it impossible to follow all. In say that, there are a handful of members I try to religiously follow due to their work having the most relevance to what I endeavor to accomplish or rather, more correctly, mangle and destroy on my little student desktop, workshop.

I have learnt much from SOS posts and no doubt, hopefully learn more as time progresses not only by ship model building and assembly but also of related workings such as the use of hobby machinery, various tools and methods whilst not forgetting the enjoyment of the subtle humour that occasionally infiltrates threads.

Yes, I would enjoy commenting or commenting more but I feel there is a great lack of my understanding to what I see other than my mind saying “Wow! member, that is so fantastic and brilliantly done, Oh how I wish I could do that, or be so neat and tidy”.

Very interesting topic BTW. – Cheers.

Thank you for such an honest and heartfelt reply! Just saying “wow, that’s fantastic” is more than enough - we all started somewhere, and many of us still feel the same way when we see others’ work. You don’t need technical terms or fancy tools to be part of the conversation, your enthusiasm already adds value. And trust me, you’re not alone in the “mangle and destroy” phase - we’ve all been there!

Here are some online resources to learn the nautical terminology. These resources should provide a solid foundation in nautical terminology, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment of ship modeling and sailing discussions.

Glossary of Nautical Terms and Abbreviations

See here for a comprehensive glossary of nautical terms, abbreviations and expressions.

www.nomadsailing.co.uk

50 Nautical, Sailing & Boat Terms for Beginners - Boatsetter

Boating has its own vocabulary and if you’re going to be spending time on the water, you should understand a few basic boat terms. Knowing these will make

www.boatsetter.com

Oregon State Marine Board : Nautical Term Glossary : Boater Info : State of Oregon

www.oregon.gov

https://www.deepbluesea.training/nautical-terms.html

 

[Shimsham]

Re woodpecker, yep guilty of all of that and more. Spending hours scouring for the dreaded carpet monster who always seems to get the most important piece of the puzzle you're trying to create.