Found a cool mag: Scale Auto

[crazydave]

Yeah, this mag for static model builders, but we could learn a lot from it. Check it out at: http://scaleautomag.com/

From detailing tips like a better way to clean your brushes, or just paying attention to the color and brands of paint they use for realistic finishes.

Lots of custom body styles to get inspiration from, an Acura S2000 coupe, a Superbee Neon, even an El Camaro.

Most importantly, I think, is that they critique their own work, and the work of others.

With this explanation offered:
"An excellent way to improve your styling and model building is to be critical of your own work. We all make mistakes, and we all can do better. Fawning aproval is not only dull, but lulls us into a sense of complacency that is inconsistant with becoming better builders"

I couldn't agree more. I already criticize my own work, (and you guys thought I was just being modest ), but I thought it would be beneficial, if everyone offered at least one thing that they feel they could have done better when posting their work, and return the rest of us should not be afraid of hurting anybody's feelings, and offer up more constructive criticisms.

[Bird]

I have had an issue of that laying around the house for a few years, and I still pick it up for inspiration... The stuff some of those guys do is unbelievable... There are a lot of resources and detailing ideas in there that can be applied to bits... Thats where I got turned on to Detail Master chrome foil... 219 has used my sheet of foil on the grille of his pimp wheeled Wild CharG, and the brake discs of the first wheel conversion he posted... You will definately be seeing it on some of the stuff I'm working on, if I ever get anything finished lol.

I want one of those panel etching tools that those guys use. Badly.

I agree that we should all criticize our own stuff and not be afraid to criticize anyone elses... It can only push the limits even further... My own criticism is the reason I have not posted an original paint job yet... If I don't like it, how can I expect you guys to?

[Finks]

Bah Bird, post your rides. Nothing to fear, just take crisp pic (hehe) and we will be on the level with you. Critisim is very important for progression, honestly I have kind of held back, but take Js VW for example. That ride is hella tight, but it honestly was lacking due to no crome outline on the headlights. It was honest critisim that he took to heart and applied accordingly. Another great example is Sinned, his Merc was a nice ride, but comming from him it was kind of basic. So after DTs honest comment Sinned added some lights to a SLAMMED Zip which we all know aint easy. If all we post about peoples ride is "that's Dope" "holy shit dude" blah blah blah, the modders desire to do better is limited (although not gone bacause I know we are all hard on our own work) Bottom line, critisim is a good thing. Thanks for the post CD.

[canabits]

I couldn't agree more. Far too often people take criticism of their work negatively instead of using it to better their next effort. Great modelling comes with practice and experience. I couldn't count how many times I've stripped a great paint job because I messed it up trying something new.

As for Scale Auto, it's a great mag! I've got the last 10 years of it and most of it's sister mag Car Modeller. Both are a fantastic source of information and inspiration.

edit*

I should mention that Car Modeller went from a monthly to an annual publication and the last one I have is from 2002. Looking quickly at the site that is the last one they have listed so it may no longer be in publication.

[filelicker]

I started out in 1/24 and 1/25 scale models , me and the kids still enter contests and build. I have been a subscriber to scale auto since they started in 1979.Since I was reading it at an early age I feel it helped me to become a more creative and detail oriented adult , and have more respect for other peoples creations.Since I became involved with the hobby many great magazines have gone away , car model , rod&custom models , model cars .If they ever stop printing SAE it will be a very sad day for the modeling world.