Build Club: Sessions 2015

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Session 34: It's a seasonal Old Year/ New Year double-header Part a - Saturday 26th December 2015 (14:00-18:00)

A bigger table today

Stradling the year Old and New with a couple of 'Special Build session' as it will have been 7 weeks since the last up to the next!
Time to start New Projects and/or finish off some old ones .......... It really doesn't matter.

Today's protagonists are:
Tony: Who made a start on the Bronco 1/35th Soviet KV-85
James: Made a start on the TAKOM Chieftain Mk!) wot Santa brung!
Daryl: More Friul Track - almost done (we think?)
Nigel: A full photo-etch kit of the Starship Enterprise
Ant: More M5A1 construction
Paul: Continues with the Revell/ICM BergPanther
Kev G: Working on his HEMTT 'Sludge Gumper' what-if
Alan: Started the AFV Club IDF SHOT Centurion 1967 Mk5/1
Chrissie: Knitting and chat with Karen
Karen: Chat and Knitting with Chrissie

On arrival, Nigel was stunned at how many had turned up (considering what day it was) but the atmosphere was buzzing. It was nice to see a couple of Build Club virgins in Tony & Kev G who were able to attend today - they're normally at work on Saturdays. Nice also, to see Ant & Karen back at Club after their recent house move.

Both Tony, with his Soviet S-51 S/P 203mm Howitzer and Kev G with his HEMTT 'Sludge Gumper' (Port-a-loo) suction and cleaning vehicle. A couple of unusual builds which caught our interest. The S-51 does lend itself to being heavily Steam-Punked at some stage and we can't wait to see how Kev's build turns out.

It has been a busy and stressful few days for all of us and today helped to let off a little steam with snacks, humour and tunes

Session 33: Saturday 28th November 2015 (14:00-18:00)

Well, it's all over for another year and back to the workbench we go..... It's the IPMS Cov Winterfest next Sunday and bits need to get finished.

Today, we were 6 at build club with:
Daryl: carrying on with his Tamiya M60A1 'Rise' by working on the MasterClub track
James: working on his Mirror Models Morris Quad - a slooooww build
Kevin: finished the construction of the Dragon M5A1 Half-Track. It is now ready to be painted in its sub-assemblies
Paul: continued with his Revell BergPanther build
Alan: added 2 crew and applied 3 washes to his Tamiya TIRAN 5, next comes the tow hausers, crew MG's, extinguishers and stowage
Chrissie: did her puzzles

A lot happening today with an early 5pm finish due to a 21st birthday party for Nigels son at 7pm. Horrible weather outside.

Also included in todays gallery are some of the ongoing projects from the gang with construction moving ahead at pace. Some of these will be on display at Winterfest on December 6th.

A good night out!

A HUGE night for Nigel, Caroline and family
with a host of events being celebrated 1920's style:

Significant Birthday for Nigel
equally Significant Birthday for Caroline
21st Birthday for Son James
Official Engagement announcement of James to Jess

Needless to say it was a lively event all around with 3 young ladies providing some 1920's dance moves. And, much as the 'adults' may wish otherwise, the many under 7's had way more fun (and energy) than eveyone else combined.

Session 33 pictures

Session 32: Saturday 31st October 2015 (14:00-18:00)

1 week to go to SMW ...... Oooh Er! and another cracking session with just 7 of us this time.

Nigel: as usual brought the largest box with his Revell Space Shuttle and commenced construction of the Flight Deck including some detail painting.
Kev R: after constructing the rear hull interior was able to test the final assembly and make adjustments then, started on detail elements.
Alan: having applied the Varnish earlier was able to fully assemble the T-64BV whilst applying staged weathering for effect. Vallejo Washes and MIG Pigments were used extensively here.
Phil: was fettling away at the hull planking for his U-Boat build which kept him out of mischief for a good amount of time.
Paul: started the Revell/ICM BergPanther (on an 'A' chassis), thanks Andy, by assembling and cleaning up the running gear.
Andy: himself decided to get back to his Valentine and with his usual diligence continued working on some fine detail parts.
Daryl: concentrated on the 'Rise' Armour for his M60A1 build cleaning up and preparing the parts.

There was plenty of chat about the upcoming Nationals in Telford next weekend with wants and lists being discussed. And about a certain event at the end of November..... eh! Nigel

Todays tunes were Bryan Adams, Caro Emerald, 70's sounds and Eddie Stobbart Trucking Songs and Ye Olde Cake Shoppe was fully stocked with snacky things.

Jeremy: In an remote update, from Northern Ireland has finished his factory build of 11 x 1/72 scale Spitfires to mark the Battle of Britain - 10 July to 31 October 1940 - 75th Anniversary.
Jeremy says: I am very feeling proud of myself for BoB 75th Anniversary so unbelievably 11 Spitfires so respect.

Session 32 pictures

Kev Green: has been building the Revell GTK 'Boxer' sgSanKfz Armoured Ambulance over the last couple of days but today's progress is in the painting.

Undercoat on, main body next!

Here is Nigel! modelling the Flexi-file PartSaver Apron from Peter at M*A*N Models

Session 31: Saturday 17th October 2015 (14:00-18:00)

It's 3 weeks to go to Scale ModelWorld and the clock is ticking with some of us moving towards finishing off projects for Competition and Display.

More of the usual madness (James) and mayhem (Nigel) at todays session with continuing builds and no less enthusiasm.

Todays tunes were brought to you by: Jim Reeves, Dolly Parton, Buddy Holly and a host of Country Singers - the scary part is we all knew most of the words - how sad is that? The usual Snacks were supplimented by butterfly cakes from ALDI

Alan: constructed the Commanders MG on his second T-64BV which is almost ready for paint now. Just a few PE parts to go.
Kev R: assembled the front Cab & Bonnet of his M2A1 Half-Track along with the Rear Door section.
Nigel: spent time getting the 2-halves of his Space Shuttle Payload to fit together trying various methods until the trusty elastic band was employed.
Daryl: concentrated on the turret and turret basket of his M60A1 'Rise' cleaning up and assembling the fine parts.
James: spend quite a time cleaning and fettling to get the T-10M Commanders MG to fit together to his satsifaction.
Phil: who has been collecting the mag (and parts) on the U-Boat (U-96) from a well known publisher brought it today and worked on some planking on the under-hull.
Caroline & Christine: read and did puzzles, chatted, plotted and schemed........

And from a remote outpost:
Paul: progress on the Queen Mary recovery trailer whilst sat in hotel room. Finished painting the trailer sides.

Session 31 pictures

Session 30: Saturday 3rd October 2015 (14:00-18:00)

Today was totally mad! We should rename these sessions SAGA's and sell them to some TV company for a series - better than any comedy show on TV at the moment.

There were 10 of us and our Nigel features heavily this time giving a lot of humour to us all and the comic moments were priceless.

James: continued with his MENG T-10M and the rear hull panel with fuel tanks
Andy: with more fettling of his Hasegawa Hurricane Mk.1 & Dragon BA-20 Armoured Car - all 4 wheels now touch the ground on the chassis
Daryl: commenced the Tamiya M60A1 'Rise' and got the lower hull pretty much completed today
Paul: started the 1/72 Airfix RAF Recovery Set by preparing the parts for the Bedford Tractor unit of the Queen Mary Trailer
Kev R: did more work on the M2A1 Half track chassis and front cab
Alan: paused with his Chieftain Mk.10 as some chinchilla dust is needed and he picked up his stalled T-64BV working on the Commanders Cupola & Loaders Hatch along with the extra fuel tanks
Phil: was finalising his Iron Man 3 diorama base
And Finally
Nigel: who decided that this Revell Easy Kit of a Star Wars X-Wing Fighter (pre-painted) would be an ideal simple, straight-forward build for today. Oh brother was he wrong!!!

Off to a good start the then suddenly, the wings proved confusing and then getting the fuselage to fit together brought James into the mix. They both spend a good 20 minutes fussing about - much to everyones amusement - getting it right only to then spend another 10 minutes trying to seperate the parts. By this time at least 6 members here present were offering help and advice on what to do/not do next!

The kit was finished just a few minutes before finish time to howls of laughter watching Nigel strain and struggle to get the final bits into place.

Joining us as remote builders from further away or due to work commitments are....... from Northern Ireland:
Jeremy: WIP 11x 1/72 Spitfires for the 75th Battle of Britain Anniversary, painting camo by hand-brushing.
from Malta:
Mark Farrugia: who is working on a Russian STZ-5 tracked truck applied dust on windshields and glass, attached winshields and wipers, attached doors and applying more dust. Chipping in the rear box and some fuel streaks on the fuel tanks, but not visible in these photos
And, a bit more locally:
Lee Rossell: my saturday night virtual build is the Heng Long 1/16 Tiger. 1 it has been painted using P3 Jack Bone which gives it a lighter shade as if it has been sun bleached. I then used Citadel base Leadbelcher to create chipped paint ( which I think I have over done a bit, soon to be rectified) then did some free hand to make it DAK also gave it turret numbers and lastly, I did some rusting using pastels to give it sandy appearance, still wip.

The ladies also seemed to be enjoying their time:
Christine: was knitting a waistcoat in white
Caroline: was upcycling some curtains, making a quilted fabric advent calendar and finally catching up on her Harry Potter

And, whoever washed the copious mugs today - many thanks!

Thanks also go to the numerous Tunnocks Caramel wafers who sacrificed themselves on the snax altar to sustainance and the Tea 'Urn'ed its keep today too!

Session 30 pictures

Kev Ryan's - Elf Girl Archer

Session 29: Saturday 19th September 2015 (14:00-18:00)

It's been a very busy month so far! And we have added 4 more to our little band of Cave Dwellers with Keith - who has contributed during an earlier session. And today with Paul Lee, Lee Rossell & Jeremy WIlson.

There are actually 9 of us here today so the whole this is a little 'cosy' so it's a good job we all get along! Also, with this many I get the chance to christen our new self service beverage device - Hello Urn! (obtained yesterday from my local ALDI - I'd been looking for one of these for ages).

So, here are todays antics ............... complete with pictures>>>>>

Kev R: Completed the chassis and running gear of his Dragon M2A1 Half-Track - surprising how much detail there is.
Ant: continued on with his M5A1 completing some of the rear hull detail, the photo-etch proved 'interesting' - eh Ant?
Nigel: made a start to the 'very large' Revell Space Shuttle and spent time trying to ensure the major parts actually fit together?
Daryl: once again was punishing himself with assembling a set of Friul Track for the M60A1 - can't repeat some of the comments, sorry!
Paul: in building only his 2nd kit, the Airfix Hurricane Mk1 he has made good progress in completing the main fuselage and wing assemblies having previously painted the cockpit and wheel wells. For someone who hasn't done modelling for 30+ years he ain't doing so bad!
James: was tormenting himself over the running gear assembly of the MENG T-10, can't think why?
Phil: carried on masking off his diorama base for detail painting, it keeps him out of mischief.
Alan: main assembly of the T-64BV Turret and Sponson covers concluding the main elements. It's all the fiddly bits from now on!
Christine: had intended doing some knitting but never quite made it.

We have also had Jeremy Wilson join us remotely from Belfast and below you can see his progress shots of some of his 10 Spitfire builds - Yes! 10. Thanks for joining in Jeremy.

Session 29 pictures

Some Tunnocks Snowballs appeared thanks to Pete Bowyer last weekend. Not seen them down these parts Yum! Yum!

Session 28: Saturday 5th September 2015 (14:00-18:00)

The concentration during build club would warm the heart of any teacher!

Music today from Eddie Stobart Trucking Songs, Trucking all over the World and The Ministry of Sound, Anthems, Alternative 80's

Alan: T-64BV version 2, main hull construction
Andy: Hurricane Mk1 & BA-20 Armoured Car chassis construction
Daryl: Assembling the Friul track for an M60A1
Kevin: Completing the base chassis for the Dragon M2A1 Half Track
Anthony: AFV Club M5A1 Stuart main lower hull construction
Phil: Masking off an Iron Man display base for painting
Nigel: Final touches to his Tamiya M4A1 Sherman build

Build Club extra!

We have these sessions and it benefits more our local modellers. It is unfortunate that many of you are unable to attend as we have a good time around the table. Besides that, it would get really crowded.

It would be great to have you all here at some point but, why not join in spirit. Do some modelling and post your results to the page with a short comment of what you have done. James started this off when I had to cancel a session for family reasons and the virtual remote build was warmly received.

So, if you think this is a good idea, register on the Build Club session on our Facebook Page as a 'maybe' and I/we shall look forward to seeing your own remote builds. Don't forget to have your own tunes playing, have your drink of choice and a few snacks handy.

In fact, why not invite a few hobby mates round and make it a great session.

Session 28 pictures

Session 27B: Monday 31st August 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Here we are once again and as it is August Bank Holiday Monday it is raining - well, of course it is, what else did you expect.... anyway!

Todays players are:
James: who made a start on the Takom PA-2 'Turtle' Armoured Car, looks good but not overly impressed with some of the parts fit on this kit we have to say.
Andy: was again beavering away on the 'challenging' build of the Dragon/Alan Hobbies Soviet BA-20 Armoured Car. Andy is so precise with his building we're never quite sure if any progress is being made - sorry Andy.
Nigel: continues on with his Tamiya M4A3 Sherman build. Nigel has come a long way in a short time and he is taking care with each part of the construction.
Ant: made a start on the AFV Club M5A1 Stuart 'Late' with the running gear. The interesting elements of the hull construction have been pointed out to him already. Ant also brought along his recently finished Tamiya 1/48th Soviet IS-2 Heavy Tank (pics below).
Phil: continued to fettle away with the Eduard photo-etch - no parts were lost during this process.
Alan: made a start to his 2nd Trumpeter T-64BV Model 1985 by constructing a torsion bar suspension to enable the vehicle to climb onto a tank transporter.

Supporting this whole process were Fox's Chocolatey Shortcake biscuits, Tunnocks Caramel wafers and a shortbread biscuit, the usual beverages and a selection of 50's, 60's and 70's tunes. Sarcasm was the order of the day with much banter!

Session 27B pictures

We were also joined by Chrissie and Karen of the 'One Part Build Club who commenced to some Knitting of garments. Well, in Karen's case some initial unpicking. Both ladies appeared quite happy on the sofa's knitting and chatting and with ocassional mutterings.

Session 27A: Saturday 29th August 2015 (13:00-17:00)
Well, as it's a Bank Holiday weekend and I'm not planning on going anywhere but on Hospital visits I asked if any of the gang wanted to have a couple of inpromptu Build sessions and, sure enough, we now have 2. Today and Monday.

Kevin: arrived first and started the reality part of his virtual build of the Dragon M2A1 US Half-Track starting with the running gear and engine.
Phil H: arrived a bit later and proceeded to fettle and glue some Eduard photo-etch for his P-51 Mustang.
Alan: I had to install the fuel system on a T-55 tank namely, the Tamiya IDF TIRAN 5 I had previously built. Now, I blame both Daryl and James for this as both have done their versions to varying degrees and I wasn't to be outdone. See below the details of the system, Pics 1 & 2 show the 15amp fusewire in place and pictures 3 & 4 with the connectors added made from masking tape. These parts now have a dark grey undercoat to await the IDF Sand top coat later on. This aspect will be finished on Monday.

Session 27A pictures

Session 27: Saturday 22nd August 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Cancelled due to a Family emergency however, James initiated a Virtual Build Club over on our Facebook page and here is how it went:

A VIRTUAL DAY JIM BUT NOT AS WE KNOW IT

Build club today has taken a very different format, due to the family commitments of our Illustrious leader Alan Brown.

The format is more like a conference call. We are very up with it in Leicester Modellers you know.

Generally we start at around 2pm and end between 5-6pm. The only thing lacking in this format is the music and Tunnocks wafers. Ant and I may welcome the lack of music as we do like to head bang to a bit of Led Zep.

First off the rank this week is Kev Ryan. Kevin has made a start or will be starting the Dragon M2. Hot off the press and a late worthy edition is some work from Kev Ryan. He has been a busy boy, with some bases and ground work for his Elf girl.

Next we welcome Keith Forsyth. Keith makes very detailed and amazing models in my opinion and has been fettling the BTR60. I believe the kit is Trumpeter 1/35.

Next is Ant Johnson a fellow Red supporter with his 1/48th IS2. I do like this, as it is very vibrant.

Then Daryl Gamble with his Me162 I think Daryl will be working his magic with this one, by the looks of it.

And lastly my good self. I bought the new Takom Skoda "Turtle" at the Hull show. A weird and wonderful machine. Reminds me of Dr Doolittles push me pull you, I have added the images after, as I took them on my phone.

The time now is 17.36, which is normally the time we start to pack up. We have how ever been known to carry on a lot later.

Thank you to all you chaps that sent images and it is time to close. We all wish Alan well with his family. And I know we will all support him in these times. It goes without saying we are a team and the bond within that team is strong.

Until next time "Keep the Faith".

And from me, Alan: Thanks Guys for all your support, I was also able to do a virtual build today whilst being where I needed to be. It helped to pass the time during what is a stressful period and the offers of help are very much appreciated.

I've een working on my T-64BV weathering scheme - in my head - I know the finish I want will perhaps give a go at it later when I get my break. Plus I'm picturing the tube/wiring for the Tiran 5.

Session 27 pictures

Session 26: Saturday 25th July 2015 (14:00-18:00)
And, here we are once again - well, not quite all of us but we can manage with just us 4 today.

Usual fayre these days at Build Club with snack, chat, music and general banter and Oh Yes! some Modelling, I knew we were here for a reason......... It was very bright sunlight to build by as well - I actually opened the blinds this time ........ He He!

Andy: continues to work on his Hasegawa Hurricane Mk1 along with the Dragon/Alan BA-20 Armoured Car which by today's standards is a little 'off the mark' shall we say but it does build up to a reasonable kit.
Daryl: Has started a new project today with the 1/32nd Revell Heinkel He-162 'VolksJager' which has less parts than the Dragon 1/48th version. There is some additional work needed to bring this kit up to Daryl's exacting standards.
Kev R: Continued on with his JGSDF Type 87 APC with final parts addition and the gluing of the upper & lower Hull parts - it's ready for paint now so, we may be seeing something new from Kev soon.
Alan: Finalised the T-64BV by attaching the tracks, track guards and other fittings as well as applying a wash to the MasterClub track on my TIRAN 5 build.

It's the IPMS Birmingham, Model Expo tomorrow so an early night tonight.

Caroline & Christine (apologies ladies for the poor picture quality - nervous camera shake)

Session 25: Saturday 27th June 2015 (14:00-18:00)
It has now been 4 weeks since our last confession! and Boy! Oh! Boy! do we have a good one for you. Namely the Leicester Modellers Ladies one-part Build Club which formally started today and comprising Caroline and Christine with hopes for expansion.

The rest of the Gang arrived fairly promptly due to their eagerness to get started. Conversation began as the Guys were coming through the door and didn't really stop the whole time. Once again it was a crackingly good session and all too soon it was finished - those 4 hours really do go quickly. Sadly Daryl was missing in action as he was swanning around getting sunburnt and annoying Phil whilst attending Tankfest at Bovington Tank Museum.

Andy: continued with his Hasegawa Hurricane Mk1
Kev R: was doing the really fiddly bits on his Japanese Type 96 WAPC
Nigel: progressed with his Tamiya M4A3 and started adding the ABER etch set to update the model
Ant: started the Tamiya 1/48th Josef Stalin 2 and made very good progress
Phil: carried on with his resin Accurate Armour Ferret Mk2
James: started the Tamiya T-55A which he is intending to complete as Syrian Army
Alan: applied the Konekt armour and fittings to his T-64BV turret
And ourLadies
Caroline: was knitting a Babies Cardigan in Lilac
Chrissie: was knitting a xxx in a Pale Pink

Session 25 pictures

This is the Leicester Modellers Ladies one-part Build Club main ingredient!

We had to call a point of order at one stage as the 2 Ladies were actually making more noise than the 7 Guys around the table so, heaven help us at the next event!!!

Clockwise L-R: Nigel, Ant, James, Daryl, Kevin, Andy

Session 24: Saturday 30th May 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Well, what can I say? Last time it was just Daryl and myself and this time???? Well, everyone got to know each other quite well with 9 members at todays Build Club - YES 9!

After we had maneuvered things around and with me taking my build tray away we got started. Unfortunately though, as last man through the door, poor Phil was consigned to a camping table away from the main table which was not ideal.

Phil concentrating heavily

Alan: Built his KrAZ wheels and started the T-64 Indy Tracks for his Trailer load of Trumpeters T-64BV
Nigel: Did some remedial work on his Revell Glider then started the Tamiya 1/35th scale M4A3 Sherman
Ant: Brought his almost finished Airfix 1/48th scale Warrior APC and began work on his Birthday present of an Emhar Mark IV 'Male' in 1/35th scale
Andy: Continued on with his Hasegawa 1/48th scale Hurricane Mk1
Kevin: also continued with his Trumpeter 1/35th scale Japanese Type 96 WAPC with the remaining fine detail parts
Daryl: began work on the Launch Tower for his1/48th scale Bachem Ba-349 'Natter'
James: applied a lot of the detailed parts to his Trumpeter 1/35th scale BRDM-2 APC
Phil: made a start to the Accurate Armour 1/35th scale Ferret Armoured Car Mk.2 - all in resin
Christine: Our Gatekeeper! kept a watching brief over the whole proceedings whilst completing her Quizword puzzles.

Session 24 pictures

It's great that so many of us are 'actually building' models and in good company. And today we had plenty of snacks as well as a wide assortment of tunes from the 1950's, 60's & 70's to rock out to!

Session 23: Saturday 16th May 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Well, we were really thin on the ground today as it was just Daryl and me this time but, we made full use of the time with:

Daryl: working on his new build of the Bachem Ba-349 'Natter' in 1/48th scale and the Launch Tower. The finish of the aircraft is to be wood-grain
Alan: worked on the Tractor Cab & Bonnet unit of the KrAZ-6446 taking time to do the window mask and bonnet construction.

All the rest of the gang had prior commitments.

Session 23 pictures

Session 22: Saturday 2nd May 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Another Saturday, another Build Club session and this time we are a bit fewer due to vehicle issues and a family weekend away but, we soldier on and today:

Alan: Starts his Facebook KrAZ Group Build subject and started with the Trailer bed.
Andy: Started the 1/48th Hasegawa Hurricane Mk.1 with some fettling to the wings and fuselage prior to assembly.
James: Started his BRDM-2 (early) as part of the Facebook MAFVA page, Russian Armour build competition.

We also had a visit from a new member, Ant Johnson, who has joined us this month. Ant popped along for a meet & greet prior to next Saturdays Club Night and brought a few of his own builds to view.

Kev R: arrived later on with a surprise. Remember his build of the Airfix Nimrod AEW? well, it's just about finished and here are a few pictures of its current state.

Session 22 pictures

Session 21: Saturday 18th April 2015 (14:00-18:00)
We kicked off with some more 70's tunes on the radio and set the tone for the afternoon with Tea Cakes and Breakaway bars rounding it off nicely.

Kevin: continued with JGSDF APC, lots of working with chain in this one.
Daryl: started his Arado Ar-231 V1floatplane, a multi-media kit with some early type molding for a relatively new kit.
Nigel: worked on his Glider followed shortly by the Airfix DH Comet racer (he does like a challenge), the fit is challenging and is really vintage Airfix - they really should re-do or delete this mold!
Andy: made a start on the Hasegawa Hurricane he had from the 1990's - there is a serious excess of injector pin marks on visible surfaces which need a lot of attention.
Alan: started the Renault FT-17 from Meng. I fell lucky with this one, very little/fine mold lines and exceptionally good fit of parts. With only the Drivers position and the Turret detail, this should go together quite well.

Session 21 pictures

Session 20: Saturday 4th April 2015 (14:00-18:00)

A really good session this week with 70's sounds on Capital Gold with a sing-a-long led by Chrissie the place was rockin' dude!

Add to that we had a selection from Tunnocks Tea Cakes & Caramel Wafers, Lemon Drizzle Cake, Rocky Road bites, Chocolate Brownies, Clotted Cream Toffee and of course Tea & Coffee were on the go!

The table was full and we added a few models for good measure with a selection of kits continued and started, see the captions to the right. We had to move the snacks though, there are some sacrifices necessary for Build Club.

Nigel: Continued with his Glider
Kevin: with his JGSDF Armoured Personnel Carrier
Daryl: with his Tamiya Dornier Do-335 'Pfiel'
Alan & James: Both started a New project, the Tamiya M792 Gamma Goat 'Ambulance' and as each build in different ways the end results for the session were very different.
Chrissie: was working on a colour by numbers art piece with felt pen and leading the sing-a-long.

Afterwards James & Chrissie stayed and we watched Thunderbirds are Go! (2015) - Everyone will have their own views on the new rendering and I won't bore you with ours here. Needless to say, this was one of the best sessions yet.

Next weekend is Club Night on Saturday and the Cosford Show on Sunday - Busy, Busy!

Session 20 pictures

Session 19: Saturday 21st March 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Just 3 of us today due to holidays & parties but, the show must go on.

Nigel: more Glider work and final fit of his Angel Interceptor to it's base ready for next Sunday's East Midlands Model Show.
Andy: Angel Interceptor cockpit detail and final construction prior to paint.
Alan: Made a start of the HobbyBoss (82459) GMC Bofors 40mm

UPDATE - 26th March 2015: Nigel has just brought his USS Skipjack (SSN-585) and the Screaming Face to join the Interceptor and Andy has brought the finished Interceptor ready for Sundays Show. I just have to get my builds together now.

Look what Daryl brought for us to see

Session 18: Saturday 7th March 2015 (14:00-18:00)
A bit more chatter today as we'd only done a Show trip last Sunday to Peterborough and thoughts were still clear.

Nigel: was working on the Revel Glider and his Angel Interceptor
Andy: his Angel Interceptor and finally being able to fully assemble the fuselage
Kev R: The JGSDF Type 96 WAPC received more attention but his time here today was limited
James: was working on the Trumpeter JS-4 kit making steady progress
Alan: assembling a new piece of workshop kit (see below) and his Trumpeter JS-7
Daryl: continued on with his Tamiya Dornier Do-335 'Pfiel' and brought his 'wooden wonder' along for us all to see - nice job too!
Christine: worked attentively on her puzzle book.

Intermission: The paint rack below is from Sphere Products of Ipswich and was a custom design to Alan's specification. It arrived this morning well ahead of schedule. Jon Page (from Sphere) supplied exactly what was asked for from good quality perspex and MDF, all laser cut. A custom paint rack for Vallejo Paints & Washes. Set up for 10 washes & 60 paints. There are 2 options for using the rack as seen in the pictures below. "I have all my Panzer Aces paints in one place now" says Alan.

Session 17: Saturday 21st February 2015 (14:00-18:00)
The table didn't look that much different from last time ...... I know, but it was. People had changed places and Yes, the picture IS from today's session.

Nigel: was doing some repairs to his Skipjack Sub due to a minor mishap
Andy: was working on both his Valentine Tank and the Angel Interceptor
Kev R: continued with his JGSDF Type 96 WAPC whilst Luke played his game machine
James: Tried to start a Dragon T-72 (an early kit) and worked on the ERA to get it right
Daryl: brought his Heinkel He-162 with an astonishing paint job - wood effect (a future 'special session' TBC) and started his Tamiya 1/48 Dornier Do-335 'Pfiel'
Alan: clamped up the T-35 fitting the side armour plates and broke open the JS-7 kit by Trumpeter for a 'quick-build'
Christine: did her puzzle book and kept Luke company

We also discussed going mob-handed to the Peterborough Show next Sunday (1st March) as it's at a new venue and we don't have a display. We shall just be punters for a change of pace.

Session 16: Saturday 7th February 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Everything is now back to normal except we had a new player today in Daryl.

Nigel & Alan: Nigel wanted to learn about how to apply decals to his Shipjack Submarine so I was able to talk him through the process (with keen input from the others on the Do's and Don't's involved) whilst using my Soviet T-35 heavy Tank as an example.

Kev was working on the Wheels & Axles of a JGSDF Type 96 WAPC (Japanese variant of the Stryker).
Andy was working on the Build Club project of the Angel Interceptor, choosing to detail the cockpit.
Daryl was working on the Dragon 1/72 Heinkel He-162 'VolksJager' starting with the main engine. During which there were a few 'fit issues' with the instructions however, he was able to resolve the next day with some creative re-working.

Session 15: Saturday 24th January 2015 (14:00-18:00)
Photographing your models Session, so bring your camera as well.

James held court with Alan, Kev R, Nigel and John Ham to go over the basics of photographing our models using different lighting, backing screens and the use of Manual commands over the usual Automatic.

Whilst the session was, at times, confusing (some of the terms used) we did actually gain something from it. So, thanks to James for his help today.

We may well do a site visit to help hone our photography skills later in the year.

In the meantime, Andy was beavering away on his MiniArt Valentine Tank whilst trying to keep Christine away from the Chocolate Biscuits.

Session 15 pictures

Session 14: Saturday 27th December 2014 (14:00-18:00)
Today's Build Club went very well with a full compliment of builders once again, the main focus this time was figure painting:

Kevin and Alan: starting painting their 'Elf Girl' Figures. Kevin went with a quite colourful scheme all in Acrylics whilst Alan had a decidedly darker approach and also painted the Hair & Flesh areas using Windsor & Newton Oil Paints, the remainder being in Acrylics. More on these as we move along.....

Nigel: Started, and Finished a Christmas 'stocking filler' in Airfix's Quick-Build Spitfire moulded in multi-toned plastic in a Lego format and which went together very quickly

Andy and Nigel: started their Angel Interceptors and found out what you get from Airfix for £3 wasn't as 'straight-forward' as they first envisaged. At times we could have filmed a 'How to' episode on confusion!! Classic stuff...... The Airfix instructions didn't match the parts placement!

James: painted, lost, and painted a Hornet Head Russian Tanker using Andrea Miniatures Flesh tones and he (they) came out very well, not bad for a first effort on a realistic face.

Nigel's son (also James): had an Airsoft AK-47 Magazine which he wanted to be made Rusty. Alan showed him how on one side and James completed the other, after which the whole thing was given several coats of Matt Varnish to seal in the effect.

Summary: I think the guys enjoyed this little diversion from the norm and it took most of them out of their comfort zone, including me! Kevin seemed to be the only one.. at ease!

Session 14 pictures

Session 12A: Saturday 29th November 2014 (14:00-18:00)
Here we are once again and a bit more up to date with the information - 90 minutes to go and everything is almost ready for the gangs arrival.

James: brought his fantasy figure (newly painted) which he picked up at Scale Model World, it hasn't come out too bad for a 1st effort. Meanwhile, he continued on the the construction of the engine & transmission of the T26E4 Late Pershing.

Kevin: continued with his Airfix Vostock/Soyuz launcher, and completed all 4 payload versions. I see that the craft is almost ready for some paint.

Alan: was adding tow hooks, lights, engine frame and door handles to his HobbyBoss GMC Tanker Truck. The plan for the model was put forwards and thought to be a good idea (wait and see!!)

Chrissie: relaxed watching the 1943 B&W Classic British Wartime Film 'The Gentle Sex' with Joan Gates, Joan Gillie, Jean Kent, Lillie Palmer, Rosamund John & narrated by Leslie Howard. And no, it isn't rude!

It has been suggested by Kevin that on Build Club 14 (27th December) we should do a Figure Painting session for something a little different.

Today's refreshments were brought to us via Tunnocks Caramel Wafers (our favourites incidentally), ASDA Shortbread Biscuits and the usual beverages.

Session 12A pictures

Session 12: Saturday 15th November 2014 (14:00-18:00)
The guys were all here once again continuing on with their respective projects. There was also an inspection of some of the purchases from last weekends IPMS UK Scale ModelWorld at Telford.

Kevin: brought his latest fantasy figure, Harpoon Girl, along for look-see. The E-75 continued in construction. And Kevin started an Airfix Vostock/Soyuz Rocket.
Andy: was still on his Miniart Valentine Tank, this time detailing the turret was his focus.
Nigel: Oh dear? what did Nigel have.......
James: produced more on his Pershing build
Alan: started another Angel Interceptor and made several modifications to the basic kit.

I had also taken delivery from Airfix of 9 Angel Interceptors for a Build Club Group Build and at £2.99 each, a real bargain for a small project. We have agreed to have them finished to be on display (hopefully) for the East Midlands Show on 22nd March 2015.

Also suggested by James was, that the end of January Build Club could be a special session is on 'How to photograph your model'

Session 11: Saturday 1st November 2014 (14:00-18:00)
Well, what a session, and with a full house this time. It was, to say the least, cosy! with all 6 of us around my table it was like Club Night with Glue.

Jim: continued with the Pershing, building the engine this time out.

Nick: was once again doing his 1/48th Valentine track - he should be nearly done with the modifications by now.

Andy: continued working on the 1/35th Valentine MkIV by way of the running gear

Nigel: added the glazings to his Skipjack Sub conning tower, and then went on to assemble the Revell NASA Command Module kit (1/48th I think) and started the Revell Glider.

Kevin: worked on his Trumpeter E-75 and the running gear, side skirts and etch detail

Alan: assembled the bodies of the last 2 tank riders for the Churchill and checked for poses, glued the fuselage of the Airfix Angel Interceptor and assembled the rear Idler mounts for the Dragon 1/35th Kugelblitz.

Chrissie: completed 6 puzzles and some knitting.

Another feature of today was the amount of chatter and conversation, it didn't seem to stop the whole 4 hours. And yet, a lot of model progress was made. Sometimes, you never quite know how things will turn out???

Session 11 pictures

Today's (incentives) snacks: Tunnocks Caramel Wafers & Tea Cakes, Mince Pies, Mr Kipling Bakewell Slices, Cadbury's Fingers along with the usual Tea and Coffee.

Today's ration pack included...

Session 10: Saturday 18th October 2014 (14:00-18:00)
And, here we are once again at Cave Dweller HQ with today's report and after a hearty Fish & Chips from Grimsby Fisheries (Jim & Chris came over early) we got started.

Jim: began with a new project, the HobbyBoss T26E4 'Late' Super Pershing. He was very impressed the straight forward build and for what actually came in the box and by the end of the session most of the lower hull was completed. Chrissie did her puzzle book and relaxed.

Andy: Started the Miniart Infantry Tank MkIII, Valentine Mk IV (Russia type) and commenced with a bit of research using the Squadron Walkaround book. He then proceeded to construct the Gun Mantle and test fit the turret.

Nigel: Was giving the Sub some R&R time so, had obtained, a Woodcraft Construction Kit of a Spitfire using pattern stamped 3ply. He managed to assemble the entire kit within the 4 hours and came out with what looked like a Spitfire.

Alan: As his recent Churchill Tank build needed some British Tank Riders, he had dug out the Miniart set 35118. The moulding is very good with some clean up required however, the figures do fit together very well.

Session 10 pictures

Before today's Build Club Jim had kindly come over early and assisted me with some advice on digital photography. Apparently my new camera (Fuji S1) is a good one (with lost of scary features to the uninitiated like me) - I'm usually fine with 'Auto' but, I'll give it a go.

Build Club Rations!

Session 9: Saturday 4th October 2014 (14:00-18:00)
With Jim helping out Phil down at the Abingdon Show today our merry little band of Cave Dwellers had a bit more room to manoeuvre.

Kev: Continued with fitting the aerial mounts to his Stryker (the final part before painting) and later on started his next project, an E-100 by Trumpeter, which went together extremely quickly as quite a bit had been done by the end of the session.

Andy: continued with his Tamiya Focke-Wulf Fw-190 with yet more PE and also beginning to assemble the radial engine.

Nick: has a long term project in building several 1/48th Valentine Tanks and variants. The kit track isn't up to the job so he has obtained several sets of the 1/35 Techmod T40/T70 indy tracks. Unfortunately, whilst the track pattern is correct, the track teeth need to be adjusted bu 0.5mm to fit the Valentine road wheels - a long and laboured task. Nick completed 48 links in the 4 hour session (about half of one side of track).

Nigel: was finally able to get some glue onto his submarine hull after all the sanding, scraping, shaping and tweaking needed to get this old kit something like. After gluing and applying the conning tower parts (separately) some filler was added and now needs to go off so it too can be sanded smooth.

Alan: had a gift from Nick, of the Airfix/Gerry Anderson Angel Interceptor from the Captain Scarlet series So I thought I'd build that today. The mould says 1980 which seams a bit new considering when the TV series was on but Hey! it went together after a few minor alterations and the use of a sanding stick.

Session 9 pictures

Today worked out very well, and the rations were duly consumed, well we must keep our strength up!!! Also, Nigel had brought some holiday pictures of his visit to Bovvy last week which I'll post up shortly.

Good conversation, advise and helpful tips are what this is all about. It's surprising how quickly the 4 hours go by but, when your with your mates that's what happens.

Session 8: Saturday 20th September 2014 (14:00-18:00)
Keen and eager both arrived in good time (Kev R and Jim, along with Chrissie).

Kev: continued on with his AFV Club Stryker applying more fine detail parts as well as fitting the rear access ramp, door area which took a while due to the number of parts.

James: Had brought his recent purchase, a Meng Panzerhaubitsze 2000 which, after much sniffing and licking of plastic and test fitting the hull and turret parts so we could see just how big this kit is. He proceeded to start the build with the lower hull section by fitting the roadwheel dampers and tiny parts.

Alan: Had begun with his AFV Club M5 Stuart's he had lurking around for a while and was trying to fit some PE engine grills which were fighting his every move. As frustration started to set in, he decided to try another route and dug out his newly aquired Academy Magach 6b 'Gal Batash'

Chrissie: Relaxed, did some knitting, puzzle books and joined in the conversation

Essential supplies for the Club today were: Tunnock's Caramel Wafers & Tea Cakes, Shortbread Biscuits and Mini Donuts (today's favourite!)

Session 7: Saturday 6th September 2014 (14:00-18:00)
Things went a bit differently this time out as:

Nigel: got a shock (the look on his face was priceless!). I had told Kev Ryan about Nigel's Skipjack Sub and the size of it so we hatched a plot for this session. Kev has always wanted to build the US Strategic Bombers (B-26, B-52 etc) but they'd only come in 1/72nd scale, which is big enough, but Kev had acquired the Revell Rockwell B-1B 'Lancer' in 1/48th. This kit box is 3 times the size of the Skipjack and with it sitting on the table well, Nigel didn't know what to do next. We then advised him that.......

Kev: was taking a break from the Nimrod and is today working on his 1/35 Stryker, or more specifically, the 0.50cal and remote system for the Stryker. There were lots of fiddly bits with this and it's really a complete kit on its own.

Alan: the Churchill MkIV was already finished, as the weeks holiday had helped with a quick build. The kit has also been weathered and a crew being prepared. With that, I did some rust weathering on the Soviet AT-1 Self-propelled Gun (Exhaust) and enhanced the tracks, Soviet/Ukraine T-24 (Exhaust and a slightly bodged deck area - looks good but it is wrong). There were other bits of fiddling around, aerial installations, going out for cakes, making the tea etc.

James: Mr Maher had visited all the way from Birmingham (he got through border control this time) along with the Boss! Christine. Now James is new to the build club - his last attempt was a disaster (Traffic Incident and Traffic Jams etc) but this time he was ready, he had brought along Dragon's Sherman Vc (the middle release) and managed to complete the bogie wheels, rocker arms and bogie units.

Session 6: Saturday 23rd August 2014 (14:00-18:00)
Crikey, it's been a whole month since our last confession Father! I was just me, Andy & Nigel this time -Skool Hols & Holidays etc......

Andy: is (back for more punishment!) sorry, continuing with his Focke Wulf (still can't remember which version?) but this time it's the Eduard PE set which has his attention especially around the cockpit detail. He definitely needed his concentration with some of the minute parts and inevitably there was a part which 'snapped' - it happens to us all at some stage.

Nigel: has started a new project. A 1/72nd Skipjack Submarine by Revell (An old Moebius kit?) but one that been around for quite a while. He spent most of the session fettling and fitting the 4 huge sections of the pressure hull - this thing is nearly 3 feet long - this task is REALLY boring, but will pay him dividends later.

Alan: has also started a new project, AFV Club's (AF 35154) Churchill Mk IV with Mk V L/50 6pdr Gun. Along with a couple of fit issues with the 2 sponsons, the progress was quite quick in fact, much faster than he had first thought having heard the 'fit issue' stories from others.

L>R: Kev, Andy and Nigel

Session 5: Saturday 26th July 2014 (14:00-18:00)

With Club Night being on the last scheduled date session 5 commences with catching up on our respective builds and the addition of ...... Well let's wait and see on Saturday. Well, It's Saturday! and there are now 4 of us here with 2 new faces (Andy & Nigel), Kev and myself. Nick wasn't feeling well

Alan: Working on the periscopes and photo-etch on the M4 Sherman 'Normandy' to move the project along. I was due to continue work on my Shooting Star but with Nick absent I felt it was prudent to postpone the 'corrections' until next time. The PE actually folded very well and just fell into place - Lucky Me!

Kev: Continued on with his Nimrod (photo updates shortly) by ensuring the main joints are perfectly smooth

Andy: Is New to Build Club, and Leicester Modellers and he had brought the Tamiya Focke Wulf FW190-A something, in 1/48th scale to start his build.

Nigel: Also new to Build Club and Leicester Modellers had brought his ongoing project of the Airfix MGB in 1/32nd scale - now this is an 'OLD' kit and whilst Nigel is fairly new to the hobby, he was doing a pretty good job of this aging kit. I was able to assist him with his painting after a small hiccup previously.

It was actually a really good session with chocolate cake and Tea/Coffee even though it was blisteringly hot too. With the new members, there was chat about what we were about as a Club in general and a build club in particular. Transferring knowledge and techniques just flowed naturally, as it should. Looking forward to the next one.

Session 4: Saturday 28th June 2014 (14:00-18:00)
With the MAFVA Nationals a distant memory we commence the next session with ?????........ wait & see, that's next week!
As it's now 'next week' we've been busy with some other bits during this session. A bit of a mish-mash this time out due to a few issues.

Alan: Not much Aircrafty stuff from me today, as I had a track breakage after the Coventry Show last weekend on both my Soviet AT-1 and KV-85 and they needed a little TLC. I have also encountered some 'issues' after the paint job which need to be remedied with filler and gentle sanding so the RF-80A is 'on-hold' at present, see 'follow the build'. I then moved on to my Dragon M4 Sherman 75mm 'Normandy' build (details of which can be followed here) completing several fiddly elements and took most of the session time.

Kev: Has done really well with his build and glued the Nimrod's fuselage together, added the wings and built the main undercarriage - he's really chuffed with the progress and regards this as "his best build yet" to date.

Nick: Was again due to join us but had driven for several hours earlier and was justifiably shattered.

And, a new addition to the Cave Dweller Crew is
Jim Maher: who whilst travelling here, once he finally escaped Birmingham, encountered a massive tailback, due to an 'Incident', on the M6 southbound near Junction 2, which left him somewhat delayed - better luck next time Jim.

Session 3: Saturday 31st May 2014 (14:00 to 18:00)
Well, It's just Me and Kev this time as Nick has just moved house and so he's sorting, unpacking and stressing!

It was detail painting, fiddling and fussing about today at the aircraft factory.

Kev: Has managed to spray the payload/ bomb bay of his Nimrod. Now, the instructions indicate that Humbrol 166 Light Aircraft Grey BS381C:627 (Satin finish) is the order of the day.

As Kev and I now favour Acrylics we had a search last time and with Nick's help the Vallejo equivalent is 110 Deck Tan (FS26496) BUT! if you're going to be doing a few of these, and Kev IS!, then go to your local Halfords and get a can of Racking Grey (in the Blue enamel can) which behave like an acrylic - Don't ask!! Additionally, Kev applied the nose weight of 20gm and also added all the fuselage glazing. The tail fins and elevators were also added and checked for pitch and balanced to each side if the aircraft.

Alan: I continued to build the cockpit tub and applied the decals to the instrument panels. Now, you should soak the decals in water then apply to the panel using Micro Set. Once in place, apply Micro Sol to soften the decal sufficiently to allow you to form it over the raised parts - care should be taken here as the decal is VERY soft. I used the tip of a cotton bud to help apply some pressure.

I was also able to apply some detail to the pilot seat and have still to add the PE straps.

Summary: Both Kev and I are very pleased with progress thus far but it will now be 4 weeks to the next Build Club due to the Official Club Night and the MAFVA Nationals at Duxford so, a busy weekend.

Session 2: Saturday 17th May 2014 (14:00 to 18:00)
Brought to you by Kev, Nick and Alan in their continuing battle with our - Aircraft
The Black paint was sprayed last night and was dry enough to work with for today.

Kev: Has, although it doesn't look very much, painted the interior cabin and fuselage with Vallejo Model Air Black and continued assembling Ailerons, Rudders, Pods and Engine Nacelles. Kev has now taken the cockpit area home for painting of detail elements.

Nick: Has pretty much done the same as Kev, but with his Devastator, and has now run out of sub-assemblies unless he does some painting. Nick has also taken parts of his kit home to complete the necessary interior paintwork.

Alan: Has managed to paint the cockpit (although detail still needs to be added), the Wheel bays and insides of Fuselage and bay doors. He has also glued the tail section and prepared the aircraft for the nose weight - tricycle undercarriage issues - when he can find one.

Progress is moving at pace and we are all surprised with the speed at which we are going - this is NOT a race. This is down to helping each other with those niggly, tricky bits and with advise and encouragement.

As well as shouts of 'More Tea Vicar!' every few minutes, Thanks Guys!!!

Kev (right) and Nick (left)

Session 1: Saturday 3rd May 2014 (14:00 to 18:00)
I was joined today by Kev and Nick to each start a New Kit - Aircraft

Kev: 1/72 scale - Airfix (A10250) BAe Nimrod
Nick: 1/48 scale - Great Wall Hobby (L4812) Devastator Floatplane Douglas TBD-1A
Alan: 1/48 scale - HobbyBoss (81724) RF-80A 'Shooting Star'

We've all managed to do quite a bit surprisingly, even though it's been quite a while since we had built Aircraft (over 30 years for me!), and Nick even got to apply glue in the first 4 hours which for him is a First! he's usually fettling for days!!!

Kev really seemed to motor on with his Nimrod build but just like myself, most of his build was in preparation for painting the interior - a peculiarity of Aircraft modelling compared to our usual menu of Armour.

UPDATE: We have had to hold an interim session on Friday 16th May to spray the cockpits of the Shooting Star & Nimrod (payload bay as well) as Nick has a violent reaction to Acrylic based paint (and believe me when I say, it's not pretty!)

Saturday Build ClubSessions 2015