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PMM Twelve Minute Modelsphere: October 2025
A packed Louisville hall with 408 models, a day spent talking shop with listeners and friends, and the kind of low-pressure reconnect that sends you home eager to finish something you’ve been putting off.Momentum keeps building as we look ahead to Cincinnati on October 18—a favorite for its friendly atmosphere, great location, and reliably good weather. We share why shows matter even if you don’t enter, how they recalibrate your eye, and how a simple ritual (hello, German dinner) makes the day feel like a celebration. Then we lay out October’s feature slate: a back-to-back shop talk with Jeff Groves as our third chair for episode 149, and a timely return from Dr. Paul Budzik as he resets his hobby space for retirement—downsizing the stash, tightening workflow, and reframing goals so the bench fits the life you want.The community thread runs throughout. Our dojo on Facebook just crossed 5,475 members, with daily photo spreads, show albums from across the country, and bite-size tips that genuinely move projects forward. We talk about a practical, one‑week blitz build to harness a quieter schedule, why sharing progress publicly creates accountability, and how the right tools—especially canopy masks that actually fit—turn weeknights into satisfying wins. If you’re planning your fall modeling, want cleaner canopies, or need a nudge to post your work, this one’s for you.If you enjoyed this conversation, follow the show, share it with a modeling friend, and drop a quick review so more builders can find us. And if you’re on Facebook, join the dojo—bring a friend, post your bench, and tell us which show you’re heading to next.Model Paint SolutionsYour source for Harder & Steenbeck Airbrushes and David Union Power ToolsSQUADRON Adding to the stash since 1968Model PodcastsPlease check out the other pods in the modelsphere!PMM Merchandise StoreSupport the show with PMM Merchandise!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Give us your Feedback!Rate the Show!Support the Show!PatreonBuy Me a BeerPaypalBump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed BarothAd Reads Generously Provided by Bob "The Voice of Bob" BairMike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.
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A Simpler Bare Metal Finish and Pencil Weathering with Chris Wallace:Episode 148
What does it take to create a convincing bare metal finish without tearing your hair out? How can simple pencils transform your weathering game? And is it even possible to complete a quality model in just 48 hours?In this episode, we're joined by Chris Wallace of Model Airplane Maker fame to tackle some of modeling's most intriguing challenges. Chris shares his surprising success using Vallejo metallics for bare metal finishes—a method that proves both bulletproof against masking and remarkably straightforward to apply. The secret? A proper black base coat, vigorous shaking, and a wider spray pattern that delivers smooth, consistent coverage.We also dive into the subtle art of pencil chipping techniques, where Chris candidly admits his journey from creating "airplane measles" to achieving realistic wear patterns. The key insights? Keep those pencil points razor-sharp and work from good reference photos that show authentic wear patterns. This approach delivers scale-appropriate weathering that can be easily adjusted or completely removed if things go awry—a rare second chance in the modeling world.The conversation shifts to the concept of speed builds, with Dave revealing plans for a five-day Hellcat build challenge with fellow modeler Jim Bates. We debate the merits of compressed building timelines, strategic approaches to quick builds, and how to select appropriate subjects for these time-limited projects. Whether you're a methodical builder or someone looking to increase your completion rate, there's wisdom here for every approach.From upcoming model shows to exciting new kit announcements (including Fine Molds' eagerly anticipated F-104), this episode celebrates both the technical challenges and pure joy of scale modeling. Join us for an hour of insights, techniques, and the camaraderie that makes this hobby so rewarding.What's your most challenging modeling technique? Have you ever attempted a speed build? We'd love to hear your experiences—share them with us and join the conversation!IPMS Race City Show - Saturday, Sept. 27thSQUADRON Adding to the stash since 1968Model Paint SolutionsYour source for Harder & Steenbeck Airbrushes and David Union Power ToolsModel PodcastsPlease check out the other pods in the modelsphere!PMM Merchandise StoreSupport the show with PMM Merchandise!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Give us your Feedback!Rate the Show!Support the Show!PatreonBuy Me a BeerPaypalBump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed BarothAd Reads Generously Provided by Bob "The Voice of Bob" BairMike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.
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From Aviation Academies to Museum Hangars: October Model Show Spotlight
October brings two exceptional modeling events to the Midwest that showcase the unique character and community spirit that make scale modeling such a rewarding hobby.First up on October 4th, the West Michigan IPMS presents their Great Lakes Challenge at the West Michigan Aviation Academy. What makes this venue extraordinary is its connection to aviation education – hosted at a STEM-focused public school where students actively participate in both organizing the event and building models themselves. Perhaps most impressive is how the show bridges generations, with Aviation Academy students eagerly assisting throughout the day. These young modelers represent the future of the hobby, learning precision and patience through scale modeling as part of their curriculum. With hourly seminars covering everything from weathering techniques to creating display bases, there's something for modelers of all skill levels to learn.Just two weeks later on October 18th, the Cincinnati Scale Modelers transform the Tri-State Warbird Museum into a modeling showcase where history comes alive. Picture displaying your 1/48 scale P-51 Mustang beneath the wing of an actual restored P-51D – that's the unique experience this venue offers. With fully restored World War II aircraft including a B-25, Focke-Wulf 190, the museum provides an immersive backdrop that celebrates both modeling craftsmanship and aviation history.Both shows feature vendor areas, special awards, raffles with valuable prizes, and food options that keep you fueled throughout the day. Whether you're entering models in competition, looking to add to your stash, or simply enjoying the craftsmanship on display, these Midwest shows demonstrate why this hobby continues to thrive.Mark your calendars for West Michigan on October 4th and Cincinnati on October 18th. Can't wait that long? Join us at the MMCL show in Shepherdsville, Kentucky on September 27th . Come say hello!West Michigan IPMSCincinnati Scale ModelersTri-State Warbirds MuseumModel Paint SolutionsYour source for Harder & Steenbeck Airbrushes and David Union Power ToolsSQUADRON Adding to the stash since 1968Model PodcastsPlease check out the other pods in the modelsphere!PMM Merchandise StoreSupport the show with PMM Merchandise!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Give us your Feedback!Rate the Show!Support the Show!PatreonBuy Me a BeerPaypalBump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed BarothAd Reads Generously Provided by Bob "The Voice of Bob" BairMike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.
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Holy Bubbles Dr. Strangebrush! What's Wrong With My Airbrush?: Episode 147
Ever wondered what's causing those mysterious bubbles in your airbrush paint cup? In this episode, Dr. Strangebrush returns to solve the airbrush mysteries that plague scale modelers everywhere. Drawing from decades of experience, he walks us through common issues with surprising solutions – from the simple fix for bubbling paint cups to the proper technique for applying dry and wet coats.The doctor's paint crisis hotline is open as he addresses listener questions that reflect the frustrations we've all faced. Learn why your clear coat turns out pebbly (hint: it might be your tip size), how to keep paint workable during long sessions, and the proper sequence for spraying multiple colors to minimize cleanup. His practical wisdom transforms technical problems into solvable challenges with straightforward explanations that will immediately improve your results.Beyond the masterclass, we explore the modeling sphere with updates on the de minimis exemption affecting cottage industry suppliers, share listener mail about upcoming model shows, and showcase bench projects including Dave's nearly-complete Bearcat and Mike's KV-85 tank radiators. The episode rounds out with new kit releases and an appreciation for the growing community of modelers supporting each other through knowledge sharing.Whether you're battling airbrush demons or simply looking to refine your techniques, this episode delivers insights that will elevate your modeling experience. Subscribe now and join our community of passionate scale modelers keeping their mojo alive!NordicCon 2025Model Paint SolutionsYour source for Harder & Steenbeck Airbrushes and David Union Power ToolsSQUADRON Adding to the stash since 1968Model PodcastsPlease check out the other pods in the modelsphere!PMM Merchandise StoreSupport the show with PMM Merchandise!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Give us your Feedback!Rate the Show!Support the Show!PatreonBuy Me a BeerPaypalBump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed BarothAd Reads Generously Provided by Bob "The Voice of Bob" BairMike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.
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PMM Twelve Minute Modelsphere: September 2025
The Plastic Model Modo Twelve Minute Modelsphere is brought to you by KitMasx!Summer flew by in a flash, and we're reflecting on our recent trip to the IPMS National Convention in Hampton, Virginia. We're eager to hear your experiences if you attended – especially first-timers! Looking ahead, mark your calendars for September 27th when we'll be at the Military Modelers Club of Louisville show in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. We'll have a table right next to Jeff Groves, so stop by to chat! The spacious Pariquet Springs venue makes this one-day show particularly enjoyable.Our podcast lineup for September includes a special Q&A segment with Dr. Strangebrush in Episode 147 and a shop talk featuring Chris Wallace from the Model Airplane Maker channel in Episode 148. Don't miss our modeling tip of the month – we've discovered that certain Aldi prosciutto packages contain interleaving film that's actually 2.5 thousandths polystyrene sheeting, thinner than anything commercially available for modeling! Meanwhile, our Plastic Model Mojo Dojo community continues to thrive with nearly 5,500 members sharing tips, solving problems, and discussing everything from airbrush troubleshooting to using Star Wars kits as painting and weathering practice. Join our growing modeling family and share your own projects and questions!Model Paint SolutionsYour source for Harder & Steenbeck Airbrushes and David Union Power ToolsSQUADRON Adding to the stash since 1968Model PodcastsPlease check out the other pods in the modelsphere!PMM Merchandise StoreSupport the show with PMM Merchandise!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Give us your Feedback!Rate the Show!Support the Show!PatreonBuy Me a BeerPaypalBump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed BarothAd Reads Generously Provided by Bob "The Voice of Bob" BairMike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.
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