A COMMUNITY OF
BUILDERS
By Chad Budreau, AMA Executive Director | chadb@modelaircraft.org
AS I WALKED AROUND the AMA National Fun Fly this year, I was tempted to buy a few kits and plans. I hesitated, not because of the price of balsa these days, but because I already have a pile of uncompleted projects waiting for me in my workshop. I suspect that I am not alone. Many of us have incomplete builds, overdue repairs, or kits patiently sitting in boxes, waiting to be assembled.
I hope this build-themed issue motivates all of us to get these lingering projects completed or inspires you to try your hand at building.
Last year, AMA celebrated October as build month. We are continuing that tradition again this year. Starting with this issue of Model Aviation, throughout October, you’ll receive free build content, webinars, tutorials, freebies, and discounts. You can find much of this information at www.modelaircraft.org/ibuildama.
Of course, we’ll be showcasing traditional build topics, including covering, tools, glues, and sanding, yet building is not exclusive to balsa and CA adhesives. Throughout October, you’ll receive tips on repairs, kit-bashing, painting, weathering techniques (that can even be applied to foam and RTF aircraft), and soldering tips. Be sure to take advantage of free plans in this issue and online. Additionally, AMA will offer a 20% discount on all paid plans throughout October at www.modelaircraft.org/plans.
I hope you become inspired to build this month but a word of caution: Do not get discouraged. Making mistakes is one of the best ways to learn. I’ll confess that my biggest intimidation with model aviation building is covering. Beyond simply ugly seams, I’ve had models twist and warp when covering. In fact, I’ve had an uncovered model sitting in my workshop for the past year, mocking me as I gain the courage to cover it.
DISCOVER MORE CONTENT!
Watch Chad’s weekly View From HQ videos at www.modelaircraft.org/viewfromhq.
The only way I’ll improve my skills is through experience, trial and error, and, perhaps most importantly, leaning on others for advice. I am a novice builder, so I should be the last person to offer any building suggestions, but I will share one tip: Lean on your fellow modelers. You will receive a lot of great build content and materials this month, but be sure to tap into AMA’s biggest asset—the brain trust from our community.
I’ve learned great tips from my coworkers and members, including the value of making copies of your plans, having plenty of waxed paper and pins handy, and the importance of a good surface. Take advantage of AMA’s brain trust, whether at your local club or online, to grow your skills in this hobby.
AMA adopted the word community in its tagline last year because our community of modelers and 2,400 clubs are invaluable in growing the hobby. As you consume building content this month, leverage AMA’s community, and in turn, be sure to pay it forward and share your knowledge and insights within it.
One way to pay it forward is by introducing youth to the joys of building and tinkering. It could be as simple as replacing a propeller to collaborating on an AMA Quick Build Project that is available at www.amaflightschool.org/quickprojects. Always be looking for opportunities to inspire young modelers to get into the hobby or expand their skillsets.
During this build month, whether you start a new project or finish an old one, be sure to lean on our great community and give back by inspiring others.
Be safe.
