Newbie with some questions...

to the forums!

I'll go out on a limb here and dare say most modelers here build from kits. There are a few that scratch build, but I believe they machine their parts from metal. So I don't think many of us will be able to help with your questions unless you are willing to convert over to kit building. So with kit building in mind, I can point you in some directions. I would think that most of the basic tools would be needed for any type of modeling??

18MOD wrote:

I plan on making 1:18 scale cars (race cars), heres the questions... 1. What tools/supplies will I need? I would hate to start on something and then be short on a tool. When you guys model cars what tools and supplies do you always use?

A good place to start for some ideas - SwannysModels Toolbox I started with nothing more than a single-edge razor, nail file, Testors Model Cement, 400 & 1200 grit wet & dry sand paper, tweezers, toothpicks, a few paint brushes, masking tape, and the kitchen table. 

2. What brand of paint is best?

That's kind of like asking with is better, Ford or Chevy. First are we talking enamel, lacquer or acrylic paints? I prefer Testors and Model Master enamels only because I grewup using them and learned how to work with them. Now there are acrylic paints and many people swear by them. Vallego and Model Master seem to be highly rated for acyrlics. All I can say is, try each type to see which works best for you. 

3. I can model parts in a CAD program but how expensive would it be to have them made? I would need a shape of the car made so I could then melt the plastic over it to get the shape I want.

Those 3D printers are expensive! Actually I would have to say, learn to carve or something and make the molds yourself. You don't want to "pour" the plastic onto a mold. You have basically two choices - vacuum forming or injection molding.

4. Any suggestions on a book for a newbie?

You might want to search Amazon.com for such topics as resin casting, mold making or as stated above, vacuum forming or molding, and injection molding.

Sorry I couldn't be of better help.