Please continue this series by going through the painting and weathering techniques. I see there are similar videos here, but would be really cool to see this go through all the steps to a "finished" state, and even cover the filming where we can see the final shot as something like this might be used.
Thanks for the mention Adam! :) Working with you on T3 and Space Cowboys are still high points of personal satisfaction because of you and your teammates. Still love watching you work!
One of my favourite videos you've ever done, and that's saying something! Would love to see this adapted into a whole series where Adam designs and builds a whole scale ship from scratch... I know that's a big ask but my lord it would be interesting
*would love to see a collaboration with another content creator who has his own channel called create scifi who specializes in prop making using very inexpensive findings but they turn out amazing* *there is also a Croatian fan-made film is set in the Blade Runner world that uses a lot of found object prop building for the cityscape that is very impressive...originally a kickstarter funded film Slice of Life is very impressive given the limitations the producers faced during production...well worth checking out*
I absolutely love watching Adam do model making. However, it might be helpful to use two colors to improve the contrast when showing us how this is done. I often find myself unable to see the details that Adam is adding, especially at the notching and hole drilling phase.
Would love to see a series of these building models from different universes and showing the design philosophies of each. Even just a painting series would be a great idea
Same here! He's talked about Star Trek a few times in contrast to the Star Wars models, but the demonstrations always seem to be more on the extra-crunchy universe ships! I'd love to see some hands-on demonstrations of the techniques used in making Starfleet ships from the 1980s and 1990s.
I love the use of miniatures in film. In the original Blade Runner, the Tyrell Corp building was so damn good. I have the disc set and the special features section covered the model making and filming of the models and it captivated me from the very first time I saw it. So much detail. It's why I still prefer practical over CGI.
I can tell how much joy Adam still gets out of building this kind of thing. I was having fun watching because he was having fun doing it. And it really drove home the point of how easy this is to get into. I always thought making things like this would take a bunch of money and expert skill. I'm totally going to try this for myself. I think I'll make a space ship for my niece and nephew to hang from their bedroom ceiling. I would love to see a part 2 of this video showing how to do the paint and weathering.
The paint is where it really comes together. When it was white, the panelling and greebles didn't really show, but even just the grey primer made it all stand out, and it looked very much like something you would see in Star Wars.
One technique I learned from an old ('80s) model-making guide I found at tlhe library "way back when" is to use the BACK of a #11 X-Acto blade with the tip broken off (as happens all to often with those blades!) for scoring styrene for the Snap, as well as for inscribing panel lines on a surface. It leaves a nice, crisp, square-sided channel that catches a wash nicely to really make the panelization pop.
Never intended to learn about spaceship paneling, watching this for the sheer Bob Ross effect. Adam Savage is great at communicating this knowledge, and it's lovely to see such passion for the craft.
That was just pure gold, I mean 3d modelling on comps is awesome but it will never have the soul that this kind of physical modelling has. That 3rd stage of adding pre-made parts from model kits is so exciting, when the model truly becomes something 'real'. Thank you Adam for this great vid along with the really interesting snippets about your time as a model builder. I could watch this all day!
I re-watched Close Encounters Of The Third Kind last night for the first time in a long time...after watching this channel for years, I found I had a new perspective and appreciation for that big, beautiful spaceship model.
Man, I could watch Adam build models all day long. Such a treat. Cheers. I love both aesthetics from fluid smooth line of Star Trek to the asymmetry found in Star Wars. Both are unique in their own ways. Great tips for models from a true master. Adam should start a TV series (or RUclips) called; "The Joy of Model Building".
I love how you always teach and mention the technique of finger scribe...I'm a carpenter and use the technique 100 times a day...saves loads of time instead of chalk lines or straight edges..and all u need is a pencil..great advice..love your work and demeanor for the work
I think it’s cool that a master builder is sharing techniques of his trade. I know there was a big push for awhile to move away from practical to digital and a lot of the builders retired and moved on. Now that studios have moved back a bit to a more hybrid approach there will be a need for more kitbashers and builders. You never know, someone that watches this video might become inspired enough to one day make a living doing it as well. But today we have a lot more advantages then we did even 10 years ago. I’ve recently started using 3D prints and using my scratch building to make even cooler stuff.
This was amazing. I really wish I could have learned about this kind of model making skill a long time ago. I'm eager to see more model building techniques.
Love how each level of detail makes it better and better. "Real" things have shape, layers, depth, ect. Also looks like weld bond is so much nicer than super glue. Got some on my fingers last night adding some details to a project.
Allow me to suggest something for the crew and editing: If Adam had used different colors of plastic between the 3 "chapters" It would be MUCH easier to film it and for us to see. Basic layer black plastic, panneling white plastic, greeblies with black plastic bits and grey moddeling kits. It will all be painted later after all! Love the content, could be easily expanded to different aesthetics: "Adam builds a SW/Alien/Trek inspired model"...
Styrene pretty much comes in white. If you want other colors than you have to change plastic type which can cause issues with glue and sanding. Painting between layers adds its own problems in that you're now gluing to a paint layer instead of plastic to plastic. Basically it's not as simple a fix as you think it is.
@@jackdoud he said in the video how styrine comes in different colors, mostly white and black. My suggestion adresses it by saying to intercalate the 2.
@@TheDrMike25 model making polystyrene usually always come in white. Colored ones are "sourced" from containers, bottles etc that are made of ps/polystyrene, or from model kits as the one he has shown.
Very nice episode. I love how Mr. Savage explains these modeling techniques in a natural and non condescending tone and sharing with everyone the joy of model building
As a person that has built many types of scale models over decades, I get a real kick identifying the kit parts that the guys at IL&M used on the Star Wars props. One of my favorite experiences was seeing the model of the Close Encounters space ship at the Smithsonian. There are many things the builders hid in the recesses including a graveyard!
This looks like a fun group activity. Everyone sits around a big table with all of the supplies and then does a reveal after "the primer pass". Thanks Adam!
I was thinking it would be fun for everyone to work on step one for x minutes, and then everyone passes the build to the right around the table. Everyone then works on step two of the build for x minutes, etc, etc. Would be really fun to see where each design went at the end.
When I saw Star Wars in theater in 1977, and subsequently Empire and Jedi, this exact thing is what I wanted to do for my career, I wanted to make space ships for Lucas Film... I never got to do that but man is it fun to watch a master maker at work doing what I dreamed of as a child.
one of my favorite choices made in the prequel production design is how many of the things in Episode 1 are super clean and fit together very neatly, but fewer and fewer things are like that as the trilogy progresses
I did chuckle when I saw what you use for your weld bond. I use them too! I did cringe though when I watched you cut your pieces. Me, I always have the straight edge over the piece I want. So if the knife slips when you cut, it doesn’t cut the piece I want. Love your videos. I enjoy the enthusiasm you put into everything you do. Boy am I envious of your workshop.
This is what you ought to be doing more of in my opinion. It is way more interesting than the videos you make based on the really expensive stuff you get given to review etc... This is exponentially more entertaining, whilst also remaining accessible to all your viewers. More videos like this please!!
This is genuinely one of my favourite videos the channel has ever put out. I love any and all Tested content, but this gritty real world technique stuff really hits the mark. Great work!
My dad worked in construction for a long time during my childhood. Specifically he was a framer. I was always amazed how accurate he was at drawing straight lines free hand and knowing measurements by eye. Or knowing exactly how much material was needed. As an adult I respect how hard workings tradesmen are. They are unsung heros in our nation. I have many friends who went to college (and finished) only to end up doing a trade. Right now I'm a sushi chef and love it, one day I plan on having my own restaurant of some sort. My family actually owns restaurants nowadays but I want to do a different cuisine.
One method tip: before gluing your parts together, try fitting them together using Blue Tack which is that putty that comes in strips like flat clay and ppl tend to use them to hang pictures. It works excellent for piecing together custom models by eye; once you have the look you want, then go back and glue everything in place.
GREAT IDEA!!! I use white glue in the same process then when I satisfied with the look I remove the parts-clean the surface and permanently cement the parts back. It's like sketching in 3D.
I was searching all over the place a few months ago for a video like this. I couldn't find anything except how to make rocky terrain for railroads & war gaming. I wanted something for sci-fi space stations, shipyards or factories but couldn't find a damned thing. Now tonight, RUclips randomly recommends this. Now I can kick it into hyperdrive & finally get some shit done. This video is friggin awesome & exactly what I needed.
thanks ! I love this small "course" on "hard surface modelling". It will help me with my 3D designs... I knew the concepts but, looking at an passionate expert, like you, is so inspiring. wow
Feel like this is a class worth a LOT of money. Think about the decades of knowledge distilled into this. Not just knowledge... _highly paid for_ knowledge. Priceless.
Adam, I totally appreciate your contributions to Myth busters and the many film projects you have worked on over the years. Thank you for continuing to make videos on how to make various projects. It would be great to see the next steps in this process.
Nothing new really. I'm doing this since 1990, since I transitioned fully from model making to 3D. My specialty at Amblin, Foundation etc. was everything hard-edge and mechanical.
Adam, I have an oculus, and I think (next to just sitting in the "living rooms") your Tested VR is the one thing I like the most! I feel as though I have actually met you! The "up close" you get in VR just can't be matched! Also LOVE all the corrugated cardboard sets!
Brilliant video. I got into model building a few years ago when Bandai's Star Wars kits pulled me in. I learned almost all skills I've accumulated from online articles and RUclips videos, and this is one of the most interesting vids I've ever watched. Well done, and thank you.
Adam is the Bob Ross of model making. I would love a series of this kind of video, with slightly different subjects. "Today we're going to build a happy space ship wing" "Today we're going to build a space station corridor wall"
These videos have been a priceless resource of information since I decided to start scratch building again this winter. It's the little things that make a huge difference on a model.
So useful and helpful. I swear, I've learned just as much watching carefully selected YT videos like this over the past several years as I did in 4 years of art college back at the turn of the century.
Im a 3D artist but I LOVE physical modelmaking a lot more than doing everything in CG. Good old times where everything was physically build in movies (okay there are some exceptions but most of the assets are build in CG... so I have a job :D). :) Thanks so much for posting and please continue this series with painting/weathering etc.!!
I love that you reference Bob Ross for that just let your eye tell you where you need more details. "Let's just have a happy little cooling fin live right here, shall we?"
I was about 10 years old when Empire Strikes Back came out. By that time, I had seen enough articles in Bantha Tracks and other magazines to grasp model making and wanted to get into the career field so badly. Of course, I had no idea how to do it, so I built spaceships and buildings using index cards with tape and glue. I loved it, but could never figure out the real secrets, so always felt a little disappointed. I'm in my 50s and just sat here mesmerized, wishing I had Adam as a teacher. His enthusiasm and encouraging instruction makes me feel 10 again. Oh, to be young enough to be able to dream of this career again...
This was really incredible and interesting. I'd love to see you continue with this series, maybe taking this through the stages of a complete model. Replicating this part for the other side, building a body, final painting, etc.
Master level educational video delivered in a manner perfect for true amateurs. It’s not just your skill level that is impressive, it’s your ability to teach us with such enthusiasm
Just a thought; each layer in different shades or colors is easier to pick up visually. I used to cannibalize car kits to make rat rods as a kid back in the 70s, and made a couple WWII aircraft dioramas. I later built many of the Star Wars/Trek/Galctica kits from that era and my dream job would have been ILM. I love this content!
I’ve never built a model in my life, other than store bought ones as a kid. I am however an engineer and ocd, and watching this was absolutely fascinating. Thanks Doctor.
That pencil-finger-guide trick was one of the earliest things I remember my grandfather teaching me. I miss him, he had experience and is still my roll model when it comes to tinkering... "can't do" was unknown to him.
I recommend this every time someone brings up sheet styrene. Plastic signs, like "For Sale" or "Beware of Dog" signs are typically styrene, and can be had in different thicknesses. If you don't mind the printing, they're a great source of big styrene sheets. Plus, they're vastly cheaper and usually bigger than most styrene sheets from a hobby shop.
This is a perfect video for me today! I was up late designing some cosplay props for my visit to the Galactic Starcruiser and this will take them to the next level!
Fantastic video. I never thought about the design philosophy behind some of the choices in Star Wars and Star Trek until you mentioned them. I mean I definitely noticed them, but unconsciously. So hearing you talk about them was a big "Oooooooooh. Oh yeah. Huh." moment. Thanks!
Adam, two quick questions: 1. How do you make circular panels, or cut larger holes in panels? 2. Do you find it more difficult to model a real object, such as the space shuttle, vs a fictional object? I imagine that modeling something real would be more "fussy" because everything has to be fairly exact, unlike a fictional space ship where you can just apply details any way that suits the eye.
Dang, I missed my calling because I did this stuff in 1980-81 (in high school) when I scratch-built a 'The Empire Strikes Back' AT-AT before there was a model kit available. Won a state fair best of show trophy actually. :D. I used the paneling technique, a small lathe to make the feet, engine systems, and neck--vacuum molding for the ear turrets, kit bashing...in fact, I recall the rear of the AT-AT used a Tamiya WWII German armored car hull which I used in my model.
I LOVE that when a ship made like this gets famous, it can become a huge challenge for decades to all kinds of people. Just think of them happily greebling the Millennium Falcon in the 70s blissfully unaware some Disney Imagineer will have to recreate it in full scale in two different theme parks.
I just discovered polystyrene sheets (and rods) and Plastiweld, during my project of fleshing out my 1/18 scale Star Wars Mandalorian Navarro Cantina display. That stuff is awesome.
Y'know the ODB's are amazing and a highlight of my week, but I would kill for more of this kind of 101-level scratch building tutorial content! I really learned a lot from this brief video!
Star Trek = Utopia Star Wars = Dystopia In all my years and decades of being both a Star Trek and Star Wars fan, I’ve never actually thought about it that way. But that is so totally true!
Definitely came together with the primer coat. Hard to see any details before that with white-on-white styrene from a distance. Some great tips and techniques! Thanks!
This beats digital 3d modelmaking and printing in every aspect! Had fun seeing this. To bad I am only a n scale model railroader. However this way of randomnes also works for recreating the real world in any area. Great video!
Great to see the techniques and hear the rationales. I've been using this same kind of polystyrene sheeting to build my own electronics projects around - I'm often using flat sheets in the same sort of sandwiching forms where you'd see laser-cut acrylic, but I've also done a bit of thermal bending - so it's great to see a master at work. And yeah, the scraps are always handy! Recently I had an overlarge and somewhat irregular slot cut out of an aluminum panel that a slide pot was to sit behind, and it just looked messy as well as being open to dust falling into the pot; I was able to fashion a slot cover from a scrap of styrene that made the thing look much better.
This is an outstanding series. cant wait to wtach them all and hopefully he keeps making them! Thanks Adam for all you do! It would be so cool to meet you.
![Realistic Weathered Metallic Spaceship [Wax Metallic - Transfers - Oil Paint Staining]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/bwzufx6FtjU/mqdefault.jpg)
Watch this episode in VR on Meta Quest TV: creator.oculus.com/community/802834256715296/
Please continue this series by going through the painting and weathering techniques. I see there are similar videos here, but would be really cool to see this go through all the steps to a "finished" state, and even cover the filming where we can see the final shot as something like this might be used.
I'd love to see him walk through the mold making and replication phase that he describes happened to one of his example pieces.
Agree. He already did this once this year but didn't do the paint video follow-up.
Agreed, Please take this same project a few steps further!
Yes! Please!
Yes! This!
You should make a few ships and team up with the corridor crew to put them in space. Maybe do a practical vs digital test.
Dude, that is a wicked idea. I'd absolutely love to see that, hopefully your comment blows up!
or combine the two, motion controlled model on a blue/green screen, digital space effects
NOW THATS AN IDEA
Such a great idea!!
What a great idea!
Thanks for the mention Adam! :) Working with you on T3 and Space Cowboys are still high points of personal satisfaction because of you and your teammates. Still love watching you work!
Peter, it would be great to see you and Adam team up in a video about model making!
One of my favourite videos you've ever done, and that's saying something! Would love to see this adapted into a whole series where Adam designs and builds a whole scale ship from scratch... I know that's a big ask but my lord it would be interesting
ooo that would be so sweet.
*would love to see a collaboration with another content creator who has his own channel called create scifi who specializes in prop making using very inexpensive findings but they turn out amazing*
*there is also a Croatian fan-made film is set in the Blade Runner world that uses a lot of found object prop building for the cityscape that is very impressive...originally a kickstarter funded film Slice of Life is very impressive given the limitations the producers faced during production...well worth checking out*
hear hear!!! and then light, shoot and composite it to make a little retro sci-fi shot!!
This is like a cooking show, except with plastics and glues!
More episodes like this how-to video are a lot of fun to watch and follow!
I absolutely love watching Adam do model making. However, it might be helpful to use two colors to improve the contrast when showing us how this is done. I often find myself unable to see the details that Adam is adding, especially at the notching and hole drilling phase.
youtube compression at 1080p also not helping whatsoever.
I was thinking the same. Doing it in both black and white styrene would have helped a lot.
Great video for technique, but I agree a little tough to see what's going on. A little washed out and blurry. I get what he's doing though.
Agreed. Very difficult to see any detail whatsoever. I know what he is talking about, but hard to follow if you don't know and can't see.
I think some harder lighting would have done wonders to help with this
Would love to see a series of these building models from different universes and showing the design philosophies of each. Even just a painting series would be a great idea
This 100% i would love to see him have a crack at something Warhammer 40K.
Yes!
Same here! He's talked about Star Trek a few times in contrast to the Star Wars models, but the demonstrations always seem to be more on the extra-crunchy universe ships! I'd love to see some hands-on demonstrations of the techniques used in making Starfleet ships from the 1980s and 1990s.
I love the use of miniatures in film. In the original Blade Runner, the Tyrell Corp building was so damn good. I have the disc set and the special features section covered the model making and filming of the models and it captivated me from the very first time I saw it. So much detail. It's why I still prefer practical over CGI.
It's on YT as well (or was), and it's a great extra.
30 minutes of making "nothing" that somehow looks like "something." That kept my attention every second. Adam, you are amazing. Thanx.
I can tell how much joy Adam still gets out of building this kind of thing. I was having fun watching because he was having fun doing it. And it really drove home the point of how easy this is to get into. I always thought making things like this would take a bunch of money and expert skill. I'm totally going to try this for myself. I think I'll make a space ship for my niece and nephew to hang from their bedroom ceiling. I would love to see a part 2 of this video showing how to do the paint and weathering.
A beautiful sight seeing a master in their field excitedly teaching others.
The paint is where it really comes together. When it was white, the panelling and greebles didn't really show, but even just the grey primer made it all stand out, and it looked very much like something you would see in Star Wars.
One technique I learned from an old ('80s) model-making guide I found at tlhe library "way back when" is to use the BACK of a #11 X-Acto blade with the tip broken off (as happens all to often with those blades!) for scoring styrene for the Snap, as well as for inscribing panel lines on a surface. It leaves a nice, crisp, square-sided channel that catches a wash nicely to really make the panelization pop.
RUclips needs to give us a report option for "Scammer/ Impersonating creator"!
@@Ayelmar silly sausage
Never intended to learn about spaceship paneling, watching this for the sheer Bob Ross effect. Adam Savage is great at communicating this knowledge, and it's lovely to see such passion for the craft.
That was just pure gold, I mean 3d modelling on comps is awesome but it will never have the soul that this kind of physical modelling has. That 3rd stage of adding pre-made parts from model kits is so exciting, when the model truly becomes something 'real'. Thank you Adam for this great vid along with the really interesting snippets about your time as a model builder. I could watch this all day!
I re-watched Close Encounters Of The Third Kind last night for the first time in a long time...after watching this channel for years, I found I had a new perspective and appreciation for that big, beautiful spaceship model.
Man, I could watch Adam build models all day long. Such a treat. Cheers.
I love both aesthetics from fluid smooth line of Star Trek to the asymmetry found in Star Wars. Both are unique in their own ways. Great tips for models from a true master.
Adam should start a TV series (or RUclips) called; "The Joy of Model Building".
I love how you always teach and mention the technique of finger scribe...I'm a carpenter and use the technique 100 times a day...saves loads of time instead of chalk lines or straight edges..and all u need is a pencil..great advice..love your work and demeanor for the work
What a wonderful description, “ Star Wars is a Dystopia, Star Trek is a Utopia. “
I think it’s cool that a master builder is sharing techniques of his trade. I know there was a big push for awhile to move away from practical to digital and a lot of the builders retired and moved on. Now that studios have moved back a bit to a more hybrid approach there will be a need for more kitbashers and builders. You never know, someone that watches this video might become inspired enough to one day make a living doing it as well. But today we have a lot more advantages then we did even 10 years ago. I’ve recently started using 3D prints and using my scratch building to make even cooler stuff.
This was amazing. I really wish I could have learned about this kind of model making skill a long time ago. I'm eager to see more model building techniques.
I could watch this fella do this all day... You can tell he just has it on reserve much like I do art. It's hardwired.
Love how each level of detail makes it better and better. "Real" things have shape, layers, depth, ect. Also looks like weld bond is so much nicer than super glue. Got some on my fingers last night adding some details to a project.
The Master makes it look so easy. 😅
Great tutorial Adam.
Thank you.
Allow me to suggest something for the crew and editing: If Adam had used different colors of plastic between the 3 "chapters" It would be MUCH easier to film it and for us to see.
Basic layer black plastic, panneling white plastic, greeblies with black plastic bits and grey moddeling kits.
It will all be painted later after all!
Love the content, could be easily expanded to different aesthetics:
"Adam builds a SW/Alien/Trek inspired model"...
Styrene pretty much comes in white. If you want other colors than you have to change plastic type which can cause issues with glue and sanding. Painting between layers adds its own problems in that you're now gluing to a paint layer instead of plastic to plastic. Basically it's not as simple a fix as you think it is.
@@jackdoud he said in the video how styrine comes in different colors, mostly white and black. My suggestion adresses it by saying to intercalate the 2.
@@TheDrMike25 model making polystyrene usually always come in white.
Colored ones are "sourced" from containers, bottles etc that are made of ps/polystyrene, or from model kits as the one he has shown.
I agree, the lighting on the white styrene makes it hard for the camera to pick up details and it’s a bit hard on the eyes.
Very nice episode. I love how Mr. Savage explains these modeling techniques in a natural and non condescending tone and sharing with everyone the joy of model building
As a person that has built many types of scale models over decades, I get a real kick identifying the kit parts that the guys at IL&M used on the Star Wars props. One of my favorite experiences was seeing the model of the Close Encounters space ship at the Smithsonian. There are many things the builders hid in the recesses including a graveyard!
I'd love to see a continuation with this piece! More detailing, and demonstrations of the techniques that get this "set ready"!
This looks like a fun group activity. Everyone sits around a big table with all of the supplies and then does a reveal after "the primer pass". Thanks Adam!
I was thinking it would be fun for everyone to work on step one for x minutes, and then everyone passes the build to the right around the table. Everyone then works on step two of the build for x minutes, etc, etc. Would be really fun to see where each design went at the end.
@@Marc_Miller That's a great suggestion.
When I saw Star Wars in theater in 1977, and subsequently Empire and Jedi, this exact thing is what I wanted to do for my career, I wanted to make space ships for Lucas Film... I never got to do that but man is it fun to watch a master maker at work doing what I dreamed of as a child.
one of my favorite choices made in the prequel production design is how many of the things in Episode 1 are super clean and fit together very neatly, but fewer and fewer things are like that as the trilogy progresses
I did chuckle when I saw what you use for your weld bond. I use them too! I did cringe though when I watched you cut your pieces. Me, I always have the straight edge over the piece I want. So if the knife slips when you cut, it doesn’t cut the piece I want.
Love your videos. I enjoy the enthusiasm you put into everything you do. Boy am I envious of your workshop.
This is what you ought to be doing more of in my opinion. It is way more interesting than the videos you make based on the really expensive stuff you get given to review etc... This is exponentially more entertaining, whilst also remaining accessible to all your viewers. More videos like this please!!
Absolutely love these kind of videos. Makes me want to build a large scale Star Destroyer.
That "notch" is a real 70's/ modern touch.
It’s amazing to think all those awesome shots of spaceships in the movies over the years have all been constructed using these exact same techniques.
A delightful watch. And as a person engaged in digital modeling, incredibly useful insights generally about design.
This is genuinely one of my favourite videos the channel has ever put out.
I love any and all Tested content, but this gritty real world technique stuff really hits the mark.
Great work!
My dad worked in construction for a long time during my childhood. Specifically he was a framer. I was always amazed how accurate he was at drawing straight lines free hand and knowing measurements by eye. Or knowing exactly how much material was needed. As an adult I respect how hard workings tradesmen are. They are unsung heros in our nation. I have many friends who went to college (and finished) only to end up doing a trade.
Right now I'm a sushi chef and love it, one day I plan on having my own restaurant of some sort. My family actually owns restaurants nowadays but I want to do a different cuisine.
One method tip: before gluing your parts together, try fitting them together using Blue Tack which is that putty that comes in strips like flat clay and ppl tend to use them to hang pictures. It works excellent for piecing together custom models by eye; once you have the look you want, then go back and glue everything in place.
GREAT IDEA!!! I use white glue in the same process then when I satisfied with the look I remove the parts-clean the surface and permanently cement the parts back. It's like sketching in 3D.
I was searching all over the place a few months ago for a video like this. I couldn't find anything except how to make rocky terrain for railroads & war gaming. I wanted something for sci-fi space stations, shipyards or factories but couldn't find a damned thing. Now tonight, RUclips randomly recommends this. Now I can kick it into hyperdrive & finally get some shit done. This video is friggin awesome & exactly what I needed.
YES!
MORE MODELMAKING!
i love that type of videos
thanks ! I love this small "course" on "hard surface modelling". It will help me with my 3D designs... I knew the concepts but, looking at an passionate expert, like you, is so inspiring. wow
Feel like this is a class worth a LOT of money. Think about the decades of knowledge distilled into this. Not just knowledge... _highly paid for_ knowledge. Priceless.
Adam, I totally appreciate your contributions to Myth busters and the many film projects you have worked on over the years. Thank you for continuing to make videos on how to make various projects. It would be great to see the next steps in this process.
As a 3D artist this is completely applicable to what we do as well and incredibly useful.
agree!!
Funny this is why I'm watching as well! :)
Nothing new really. I'm doing this since 1990, since I transitioned fully from model making to 3D. My specialty at Amblin, Foundation etc. was everything hard-edge and mechanical.
Adam, I have an oculus, and I think (next to just sitting in the "living rooms") your Tested VR is the one thing I like the most! I feel as though I have actually met you! The "up close" you get in VR just can't be matched! Also LOVE all the corrugated cardboard sets!
Brilliant video. I got into model building a few years ago when Bandai's Star Wars kits pulled me in.
I learned almost all skills I've accumulated from online articles and RUclips videos, and this is one of the most interesting vids I've ever watched.
Well done, and thank you.
Sharing your experience like this is so awesome!
I learn something new every time I watch you work
I find modelmaking to be incredibly relaxing and stress relieving. A great creative release too. Been enjoying the hobby since I was 7 or 8 years old.
This is long overdue. Personally I've always wanted to know more about this process and your experience. Thanks Adam!!
idk Adam did kit bashing scratch building video years ago that had pretty much everything this video had.
Adam is the Bob Ross of model making.
I would love a series of this kind of video, with slightly different subjects.
"Today we're going to build a happy space ship wing"
"Today we're going to build a space station corridor wall"
It truly is nothing that looks like something! Amazing!
These videos have been a priceless resource of information since I decided to start scratch building again this winter. It's the little things that make a huge difference on a model.
So useful and helpful.
I swear, I've learned just as much watching carefully selected YT videos like this over the past several years as I did in 4 years of art college back at the turn of the century.
Just when I was about to say " you sound like Bob Ross", you said it first !! ^^ thanks for that video. It's an eye opening
Thanks Adam, the youtube needs much more scratch building content. Really appreciate the amount of skill and material knowledge you have.
Outstanding Teacher! Very articulate AND intuitive! Thanks for the demo!
Im a 3D artist but I LOVE physical modelmaking a lot more than doing everything in CG. Good old times where everything was physically build in movies (okay there are some exceptions but most of the assets are build in CG... so I have a job :D). :) Thanks so much for posting and please continue this series with painting/weathering etc.!!
I love that you reference Bob Ross for that just let your eye tell you where you need more details. "Let's just have a happy little cooling fin live right here, shall we?"
I was about 10 years old when Empire Strikes Back came out. By that time, I had seen enough articles in Bantha Tracks and other magazines to grasp model making and wanted to get into the career field so badly. Of course, I had no idea how to do it, so I built spaceships and buildings using index cards with tape and glue. I loved it, but could never figure out the real secrets, so always felt a little disappointed. I'm in my 50s and just sat here mesmerized, wishing I had Adam as a teacher. His enthusiasm and encouraging instruction makes me feel 10 again. Oh, to be young enough to be able to dream of this career again...
Is Simple. Adam's best Master. Congratulation.
Love this style of video. Really informative without being condescending. Would love more demonstration videos along this line
Love love LOVE these kinds of Testeds. Love the history, love the detailed explanations, love the instruction. GO, ADAM! YAY!
This was really incredible and interesting. I'd love to see you continue with this series, maybe taking this through the stages of a complete model. Replicating this part for the other side, building a body, final painting, etc.
Master level educational video delivered in a manner perfect for true amateurs. It’s not just your skill level that is impressive, it’s your ability to teach us with such enthusiasm
Just a thought; each layer in different shades or colors is easier to pick up visually.
I used to cannibalize car kits to make rat rods as a kid back in the 70s, and made a couple WWII aircraft dioramas. I later built many of the Star Wars/Trek/Galctica kits from that era and my dream job would have been ILM.
I love this content!
Did not know you were a maker!! Just so happened to this just when or as I am needing what you're doing!! Thanks buddy¡
I’ve never built a model in my life, other than store bought ones as a kid. I am however an engineer and ocd, and watching this was absolutely fascinating. Thanks Doctor.
I loved this one Adam. And you were very relaxed and funny, which added to the joy of watching it
Amazing, and not overly complicated to execute! Thank you for sharing!
More of this style for sure. You're awesome Tested!
I like the Bob Ross reference. Equally relaxing viewing.
That pencil-finger-guide trick was one of the earliest things I remember my grandfather teaching me. I miss him, he had experience and is still my roll model when it comes to tinkering... "can't do" was unknown to him.
I am enjoying the modeling instruction videos. I would like to see more of this. Thank you for the videos.
I recommend this every time someone brings up sheet styrene. Plastic signs, like "For Sale" or "Beware of Dog" signs are typically styrene, and can be had in different thicknesses. If you don't mind the printing, they're a great source of big styrene sheets. Plus, they're vastly cheaper and usually bigger than most styrene sheets from a hobby shop.
This is a perfect video for me today! I was up late designing some cosplay props for my visit to the Galactic Starcruiser and this will take them to the next level!
Fantastic video. I never thought about the design philosophy behind some of the choices in Star Wars and Star Trek until you mentioned them. I mean I definitely noticed them, but unconsciously. So hearing you talk about them was a big "Oooooooooh. Oh yeah. Huh." moment. Thanks!
Adam, two quick questions:
1. How do you make circular panels, or cut larger holes in panels?
2. Do you find it more difficult to model a real object, such as the space shuttle, vs a fictional object?
I imagine that modeling something real would be more "fussy" because everything has to be fairly exact, unlike a fictional space ship where you can just apply details any way that suits the eye.
This was great, and very helpful. Would love to see the next 3 or so chapters to completion, i.e. painting, weathering etc....
What a great tutorial. Adam, your energy is infectious. Had great fun watching it and am sure will watch this many more times.
I love building with styrene card! I'd love to see a weathering paint video as well. AK interactive rust streaking has changed my life lol.
Dang, I missed my calling because I did this stuff in 1980-81 (in high school) when I scratch-built a 'The Empire Strikes Back' AT-AT before there was a model kit available. Won a state fair best of show trophy actually. :D. I used the paneling technique, a small lathe to make the feet, engine systems, and neck--vacuum molding for the ear turrets, kit bashing...in fact, I recall the rear of the AT-AT used a Tamiya WWII German armored car hull which I used in my model.
Excellent tutorial. It really shows that anyone can try their hand at scratch building.
Thank you Adam, it’s always a pleasure to watch & listen to you create.
I LOVE that when a ship made like this gets famous, it can become a huge challenge for decades to all kinds of people. Just think of them happily greebling the Millennium Falcon in the 70s blissfully unaware some Disney Imagineer will have to recreate it in full scale in two different theme parks.
I just discovered polystyrene sheets (and rods) and Plastiweld, during my project of fleshing out my 1/18 scale Star Wars Mandalorian Navarro Cantina display. That stuff is awesome.
Y'know the ODB's are amazing and a highlight of my week, but I would kill for more of this kind of 101-level scratch building tutorial content! I really learned a lot from this brief video!
I am blown away. Watching you paneling made me get my tools and polystyrene and .... get back to practicing
Star Trek = Utopia
Star Wars = Dystopia
In all my years and decades of being both a Star Trek and Star Wars fan, I’ve never actually thought about it that way. But that is so totally true!
Love the Savage Masterclass Series on model making!!!
Definitely came together with the primer coat. Hard to see any details before that with white-on-white styrene from a distance. Some great tips and techniques! Thanks!
Amazingly cool! Thank you so much for taking the time to share this with us. I also love how packed your shop is. Makes me feel better about mine!
This beats digital 3d modelmaking and printing in every aspect! Had fun seeing this. To bad I am only a n scale model railroader. However this way of randomnes also works for recreating the real world in any area. Great video!
Great to see the techniques and hear the rationales. I've been using this same kind of polystyrene sheeting to build my own electronics projects around - I'm often using flat sheets in the same sort of sandwiching forms where you'd see laser-cut acrylic, but I've also done a bit of thermal bending - so it's great to see a master at work. And yeah, the scraps are always handy! Recently I had an overlarge and somewhat irregular slot cut out of an aluminum panel that a slide pot was to sit behind, and it just looked messy as well as being open to dust falling into the pot; I was able to fashion a slot cover from a scrap of styrene that made the thing look much better.
Loved watching this come together. Would it be possible to see the next steps (rust streaking, blaster pits, specular high lighting) on this panel?
This is an outstanding series. cant wait to wtach them all and hopefully he keeps making them! Thanks Adam for all you do! It would be so cool to meet you.
This is an excellent tutorial for wargame terrain builders.