My name is Dave and I live in Logan, Utah in the United States. I'm a 60 year old engineer, commercial pilot and business owner that hasn't built a plastic model in over 45 years! Over the years I have built RC model planes and helicopters, along with a few full size aircraft (Van's RV-4, Pitts S-1D, and Kitfox IV). I decided that I wanted to try to build realistic-looking scale models (WWII aircraft for starters) in 1/48 and/or 1/72 scale. I watched a ton of youtube videos and spent a lot of time researching on this and other forums. Everything was new to me and I had a lot to learn. I am ever so grateful to Paul for taking the time to put together his EXCELLENT, 13 part "Aircraft Modeling Techniques Tutorial" video series. I decided that I would build the Airfix Messerschmidt Bf 109 E4 kit as recommended and illustrated by Paul in the videos. I would watch a video and then go to work on that part of the kit. Sometimes, I would have to deviate away from actually working on the kit to test and practice new techniques (mostly airbrushing which I had never done in my life). In any event, I just completed this first build over the weekend and thought I'd share a few pics with you. Overall, I'm happy with the build; I was determined to try out as many techniques on the build as possible and did. I knew I wanted a pretty "dirty" model from the start but I did overdo my oil paint weathering and paint chipping effects. My friends and family think that it's a really great model while I think that it's a reasonable and decent first build. Let me know what you think. Can't wait to start on my next one! I think I'm going to try a 1/72 scale....
Completed 1/48 Bf 109 E4
Top View
Rear Qtr View (I never figured out what that round "stain" is at the top of the rudder; I'm guessing glue?)
Front View (Heavily chipped!)
And finally, the Heavily Weathered Bottom! (Too much, but learned a lot!)
Once again I'd like to thank Paul for his outstanding video tutorial series; I can't tell you how much you helped me and made this possible. I'd also like to thank all of you forum members; I spent a lot of time researching and reading your posts and threads. Thanks for taking the time to share your knowledge. It really helps us newbies!
I guess I've gone on long enough for now. "See" you all soon, keep modeling and have fun!
Utah_Aviator
Logan, Utah
