The Walk-Thru of the 2023 International Paper Modeler's Convention (IPMC); the 25th

[rmks2000]

Thanks for documenting the displays, DC. Tyler's builds are always a highlight of the show.

[THE DC]

Tough Tyler is a scratch builder, he has tips for his art that can translate to any paper modeling effort. So engrossed is he in his scracthbuilding, he was seen working on the project during the convention (see pic 1). Note the punch at the top corner of the sign, to get an understanding of how wide a range of tool he employs.

Specifically, relating to scratch builds, he suggests that scratch-builders need 1:1 drawings of parts to draft out build parts. Free-handing parts is sometimes necessary. Even builders of pre-designed kits can relate to improving a pre-design, or altering/bettering a kit part or process.

Choosing the thickness of paper is important, from thin to thinner, to resolve the challenges between mobility needs versus structural support demands. Bolt marks are accomplished by using thin receipt paper to permit dimpling on his planes. Thicker paper used for skin, to provide sturdiness against damage. Regular paper made glue tubes possible. After the correct thickness is determined, the choice paper combinations may still need to be sanded down to create a smooth surface, which can then be painted.

Tools are an important part of Tylers success, and they may even be found around his exhibit sign, so important are they to his efforts (see pic 2). His Exacto knife #2 springs to mind quickly as a favored tool, with his #11 for bigger cutting efforts. Tyler recommends a thick handle for better management of cutting efforts, and for ease of use; as well as to avoid the pain or cramps experienced with thinner handles, upon the vulnerable hands. He uses a Dremmel for sanding paper parts (see pic 3) . A little drill for tiny holes, like on the tail section, like for the tail wheel. Tyler also used a sewing tool to create symmetric rivet patterns on his paper, to improve texture details (see pic 4). Other tools augmented the riveting effects, promoted scoring success, and folding efficiency (see pic 5).



Picture 1: Tyler's exhibit work mat & tools…

Picture 2: Tools & Tyler Hafley sign…

Picture 3: Tools - sanding wheels…

Picture 4: Tools- picks, rivet wheels…

Picture 5: Tools- scoring and stippling tools

[THE DC]

As mentioned before, Tyler has to fly out from all the way of Utah; that’s hard on the arms! Why would he make such an expensive and difficult Trek? Tyler explained, that like so many interviewed so far, fellowship compels the effort. He shared that he’d been coming to the IPMC for three years and that it was fun to see people’s progress on their projects over the year, over that period.

He also says the IPMC is a great place to learn techniques. Though he is primarily a scratch builder, he shows interest in prepared kits and the techniques that they use for mass production, to consider for individual paper sculpting.

He gets to re-connect with fellow builders. His wife doesn’t get his passion, at least so far, he admitted, so its nice for him to chat with people who appreciate the details of building. He also noted that these peers understand the level of his effort and appreciate the work he has put into his sculptures in a way the novice observer simply can not.

I think you will agree; this work is appreciated!

[THE DC]

And so includes the Tyler T-half exhibit. There was much to say about one build and I hope it was interesting and enlightening.

The next artist to feature also scratch builds, by creating his models on the computer and then builds them for exhibition. Unlike Tyler, he exhibit is enhanced by the largest number of models in a single exhibit...

A contrast like no other in tables!