Ok, so the other day I reflected that to try and improve my productivity, I would try and do at least 15 minutes of modelling a day. Given that promise, and that I really need to start using this blog more regularly, here is a quick update.

Before I get started, however, here is a gratuitous photo of my new desk. I say new it is actually an old one that my wife has had in storage. We finally got around to collecting it and as you can see, it is a good size and I am in the progress of working out how to make the best of it as it serves two masters. First, it is my work desk for writing and researching, and second, it is my modelling desk.



As for modelling, I started work on Tamiya’s A-1J Skyraider that I picked up last year. This kit was released in 2000 and stands up well to the test of time. There are finely recessed panel lines, and the kit could easily be built from the box. Yes, there are some pin marks but none of these is serious and can be dealt with easily. Nonetheless, I have decided to do some detailing on the kit. I have bought Eduard’s colour etch set for the cockpit and a couple of Quickboost sets for the aircraft. Specifically, I have some resin gun barrels and the prominent boot cockpit sliding enclosure system. I am probably also going to pick up a couple of sets of the Eduard Brassin Mk82 bombs, which include the prominent extender fuses that were used on these aircraft.



I have started work on the cockpit pieces so that I can prime and paint them and then start adding the etch parts to that area.


In terms of markings, I am going with one of the kit supplied options. In this case, it is an aircraft called ‘Sock it to Em,’ which served with the 602nd Special Operations Squadron flying out of Thailand, c. 1969.



The other piece that I have been working on is the Vlad figure by Mike Blank. I managed to get this all primed and have started some of the undercoating work. So far, the face has been undercoated ready for painting in oils, I have also begun on the kaftan. I hope to paint the face tonight.


Well, so far, so good. I seem to be keeping to my promise of doing a bit each day and I am happy with the progress made so far. More updates soon!

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Very nice, neat work area Ross, & I like your ethic of doing 15 minutes per day. When we all lead busy lives, that's an important thought to reflect on.

Nice work area and start,like Chris I like the ethics of 15 mins a day,by the time I get home,get cleaned up,eat I'm about ready for bed!!