The Duchess Arlene (My first build in 30 plus years...)

Great first attempt, Raymond! Can't wait to see your next project.

Raymond, that's not bad work after 30+  years away from the hobby. Don't worry about whether or not it's as good as what the rest of us are building. We are all at our own level of modeling ability. If you had fun doing it, that's all that matters. Because once you stop enjoying the hobby it's time to give it up. If I were just starting out in the hobby or was coming back after so many years like you, I would be darned proud of a build like that. GOOD JOB!!

That's a good start Raymond, and one that will inspire you to keep on modeling.  You will get better and better, and will often refer back and "judge" your progress, and future completions, on this, your first build.  I know that because I traveled a very similar road.  I look back at the Monogram A-10 that brought me back to scale-modeling after a loooong absence and it always makes me smile.  Progress is easy to see and that will always keep you trying for more!  Congrats on getting "back in the game"!

Gary

I echo JimTENN!!  That's fine work for hand painting. I've been building models since the mid-60's and still have to remind myself to focus on the basics--joint cleanup, fit and alignment, etc. I have kits that I am reluctant to start cause I don't think I can handle them.  Kits like your Revell/Monogram Mustang are great ways to get immersed in the hobby. They are reasonably priced, usually go together fairly well, offer a challenge once in a while and look great out of the box without breaking the bank with a bunch of aftermarket stuff. Once you get rolling you can go nuts on the AM and start overflowing the stash like most of the rest of us.  Keep it up!!!

Raymond!  Awesome Mustang!  What a way to return to the hobby!  Looks awesome!

Eagle90

Great start getting back into the hobby!  I see one easy suggestion to help your painting (I hear you abou the hand not being as steady as it use to be).  Use hobby masking tape (I like Tamiya) to mask the line between the OD antiglare panel and the silver paint. Then paint the OD. The masking will get you that nice straight line, just becare about how how thick/thin the piant is to minimize any paint bleeding through.  Hope to see your next build soon

Thanks for all the kind comments guys!  I know I've got a ways to go, but I had a blast putting the plane together. And to be truthful, I'm right proud of it!  I put a lot of time and sweet into it, and it turned out pretty nice.

I have an incredible amount of respect for the men who fought World War II on two fronts, and one of my next projects will be the two more Red Tails, but the "Gruesome Twosome's" P-51Bs.  I have a feeling that I'll end up putting the tree planes together in a nice display case and giving them to my wife.  I can always rebuild them for me.  

Waikong, I actually used masking tape, but I don't think I got a good seal.  I'm working on Greg Boyington's F4U number 883 right now, and I'm making darn sure that I'm sealing it down good.  The first layer appeared to have much cleaner lines this time, so I'm hopeful.  I'm trying to decide if I want to wait until I get my decals before I add the numbers and art.  It may be a few weeks before I can get it though, so we'll see.

Keep any suggestions coming, and I'm having a blast!  Thanks, Raymond