When is it time to enter a contest?

QUOTE: Originally posted by JoeRugby I have been happy for the most part with many of my most recent builds and was wondering when will it be time to step up and try to compete?

Although the two esteemed gentlemen above have offered some good points to think about, I believe the simplest answer is this:

Q: "...when will it be time to step up and try to compete?"
A: When you want to!

I really think it's just that simple.


Hey, Zen_Builder, welcome to FSM!
Or should I say...welcome back?

Zen's question is very pertinent. Why do you need to compete indeed? The problem with this approach is that you'll end up building models against what other people think is 'cool'. In fact, you're building for their pleasure. Not yours. And that's where the problem lies!

I've been entering competitions for over 25 years and as Zen said, one model can be 1st in a particuale show that week and not even reach 3rd the next week in a show 20 miles away.

Enter your models at shows and competitions for the pleasure of having your model looked at, to show off your skills, your interests and your techniques. The awards are just an added bonus (trophies can be re-used for bases for instance!).

First of all a few question if I may be so bold.

Why do you think you need to compete?
What are your expectations from a competition?
Do you think competing will enhance your skills?

Now here is my view on competitions and some will crucify me for it.

Each competition has a certain target audience and rules/judging criteria, if you want to win you have to exceed those expectations and proove better than the other guys trying to do the same.

I have seen the same kits get ripped off in some compeititions and take gold in others.
So, if your goal is winning a competition than you need to build towards that end(rules, judges and audience).

If you simply want to see how your kits measure up you can either enter them or simply see what has been entered into any given competition.
The comparison can be don regardless if you place first or last.

HTH.