FAQs

1. What are cardboard models? Cardboard models are replicas of things and objects that are made primarily from cardboard, paper or plastic card. They attempt to approximate the likeness of objects from which they are patterned. Subjects are range from simple paper cutouts, buildings, castles to ship and aircraft. They can come in colored pre-printed patterns for assembly or the model can be built entirely from scratch.
2.  What are the tools and materials used? The main material used is stiff cardboard or paper. The type and thickness of the cardboard depend on the kind, scale and structure of the model that is to be made. Larger models require thicker and stronger paper to support weight. Easily rounded and folded cardboard are used to build complex structures. Commonly used tools are scissors, cutters, glue, adhesives, compass, rulers, triangles, paint, pencils and markers. Cutting, scoring, folding and gluing the cardboard, forms the model.
3. Why bother with cardboard models? Cardboard models provide hobbyist another dimension for creativity. It incorporates basic engineering principles and geometric designs in forming the structures and making it strong. Unlike plastic models a cardboard model is very cheap. Repairs while constructing can easily be done together with improvements and adjustments in the final look of the model.. One built from scratch is always unique and one of a kind. It does not require big space in building or storing.
4. Where can I learn about and get cardboard models? There are a variety of books available that discuss cardboard and plastic card modeling subjects. Amazon.com has a couple of titles available regarding paper and cardboard structures. Sites dedicated to selling cardboard models such, also provide information.
5. Can I start to build cardboard models right away? Yes. Even children can build cardboard models and in fact they do. Many elementary schools incorporate cardboard models in art subjects. If you can cut patterns, you can do cardboard modeling. A model need not be complex. A simple model is always the best way to start cardboard modeling. Learning a little basic geometry and engineering techniques can eventually lead to more complex models such as ship frames.
6. Where can I get free cardboard models? Cardboard and Paper model sites often provide free downloadable models that you can print and construct yourself. Colored pattern cutout models that you can purchase online are also available. Paper Models International, Fiddler's Green, Maritime Cut Out Models, Paperwarbirds, Flying Pig and freelance designers offer different kinds and versions of models.
7. Do cardboard models last long? Cardboard models by their nature and construction are very fragile and light. However, with proper design it can be very sturdy and strong. Just as in any collection, a serious cardboard modeler and/or collector must invest time and money to protect their models from the affect of constant handling and weather. Sealed containers or display cabinets are often used.

LINKS

These are links to different sites that I recommend:

http://www.repapstudios.com/index.htm  Support your own!!! Here is a link to a fellow Filipino cardboard modeller who is much younger and more talented than me! (Darn the youth these days) Yup, he goes a step further by designing them in a computer and selling them online!!! Recommend you try building them all!!! By the way, dont forget to buy the Mechrider comics too!!!

http://www.jplanes.com Tired of building and displaying airplane card models just to gather dust? Wish you can fly them? This is the website of a guy who designs cardboard airplanes that when built can actually fly!!! Hey, that's no easy thing!!! So what the heck are you waiting for?