Ever wondered what's causing those mysterious bubbles in your airbrush paint cup? In this episode, Dr. Strangebrush returns to solve the airbrush mysteries that plague scale modelers everywhere. Drawing from decades of experience, he walks us through common issues with surprising solutions – from the simple fix for bubbling paint cups to the proper technique for applying dry and wet coats.

The doctor's paint crisis hotline is open as he addresses listener questions that reflect the frustrations we've all faced. Learn why your clear coat turns out pebbly (hint: it might be your tip size), how to keep paint workable during long sessions, and the proper sequence for spraying multiple colors to minimize cleanup. His practical wisdom transforms technical problems into solvable challenges with straightforward explanations that will immediately improve your results.

Beyond the masterclass, we explore the modeling sphere with updates on the de minimis exemption affecting cottage industry suppliers, share listener mail about upcoming model shows, and showcase bench projects including Dave's nearly-complete Bearcat and Mike's KV-85 tank radiators. The episode rounds out with new kit releases and an appreciation for the growing community of modelers supporting each other through knowledge sharing.

Whether you're battling airbrush demons or simply looking to refine your techniques, this episode delivers insights that will elevate your modeling experience. Subscribe now and join our community of passionate scale modelers keeping their mojo alive!

NordicCon 2025

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Bump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed Baroth
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Mike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.

The Plastic Model Modo Twelve Minute Modelsphere is brought to you by KitMasx!

Summer flew by in a flash, and we're reflecting on our recent trip to the IPMS National Convention in Hampton, Virginia. We're eager to hear your experiences if you attended – especially first-timers! Looking ahead, mark your calendars for September 27th when we'll be at the Military Modelers Club of Louisville show in Shepherdsville, Kentucky. We'll have a table right next to Jeff Groves, so stop by to chat! The spacious Pariquet Springs venue makes this one-day show particularly enjoyable.

Our podcast lineup for September includes a special Q&A segment with Dr. Strangebrush in Episode 147 and a shop talk featuring Chris Wallace from the Model Airplane Maker channel in Episode 148.

Don't miss our modeling tip of the month – we've discovered that certain Aldi prosciutto packages contain interleaving film that's actually 2.5 thousandths polystyrene sheeting, thinner than anything commercially available for modeling!

Meanwhile, our Plastic Model Mojo Dojo community continues to thrive with nearly 5,500 members sharing tips, solving problems, and discussing everything from airbrush troubleshooting to using Star Wars kits as painting and weathering practice. Join our growing modeling family and share your own projects and questions!

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Bump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed Baroth
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Mike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.

Scale modeling contests are evolving beyond just competition, as demonstrated by two fascinating September shows highlighted in our latest episode. From Pennsylvania to Oregon, we explore how clubs are reimagining the traditional model contest format to build stronger communities and create more engaging experiences.

The Shenango Valley Area Scale Modelers in Pennsylvania will celebrate their 40th annual show on September 20th, continuing their successful implementation of the gold-silver-bronze judging format they adopted four years ago. This approach has streamlined their process, reduced category complexity, and better rewards modeler effort. Located in the northeast corner of IPMS Region 4, the show draws talent from throughout the Pittsburgh-Cleveland-Erie triangle, creating a high-quality display of modeling craftsmanship across all subjects.

Meanwhile, the Oregon Mid-Valley Modelers have completely reimagined their event as the "Oregon Modelers Jamboree," focusing on club participation and community building alongside traditional competition. Their innovative approach includes dedicated club tables for modeling groups throughout Oregon and the Pacific Northwest, with special outreach to automotive modelers and Gunpla builders who are sometimes underrepresented at traditional shows. With eight clubs confirmed to participate, this event truly celebrates the community aspect of the hobby.

Both shows demonstrate different paths forward for scale modeling events – whether through more inclusive judging systems or by emphasizing club participation and community building. These innovations offer promising glimpses of how scale modeling contests might continue to evolve while maintaining the high standards and competitive elements that many modelers enjoy.

If you're anywhere near Albany, Oregon or Hermitage, Pennsylvania on September 20th, or our own Military Modelers Club of Louisville show in Shepherdsville, Kentucky on September 27th, consider attending one of these shows to experience the evolving model contest scene firsthand. The community connections made at these events often become the most rewarding aspect of this otherwise solitary hobby.

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Bump Riffs Graciously Provided by Ed Baroth
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Mike and Kentucky Dave thank each and everyone of you for participating on this journey with us.