Tip # 2: DIY Vacuum Chamber

Tip # 2: DIY Vacuum Chamber for Resin Casting

I had this idea when i re-tried resin casting. During my 1st try ~2yrs ago, one of the main problems i had was bubbles in my mold and cast. after reading some of the forums and resin casting sites, i learned that some resin casters use a vacuum chamber to enable them to eliminate almost all of the bubbles during the mold making and resin casting process. This vacuum chamber consists of a sealed chamber and a vacuum source. Please see my set-up, i think it's self explanatory.

I'll make improvements on the chamber and use the more expensive "biokips" or "lock n lock" brand that has build-in seals. I know bullet would know what i'm talking about... hehehe

Just cut hole, i suggest finding a rigid side, big/small enough for a tight fit for the hose of the vacuum, then vacuum away! When I used my set-up, the part where i place the vacuum hose deformed, nearly crushing my mold. This is because i used a cheapo plastic food keeper i found lying somewhere in the kitchen... hehehehe...

I tested this already and it worked. I re-casted an 1/48 P-51D engine [no it's not for re-sale], no bubbles and the casting worked out great! :)

Tip # 1: DIY Paint Rack

I'll try to share some of the tips I learned and developed in my short modelling "life".
This is my version of the DIY Paint Rack.
Materials:
1. Angled Aluminum bar
2. 1.5 inch Square Hook (from Ace hardware or Handyman)

Procedure:
1. Measure length of the area where you want to install the paint rack. In my case, I installed it inside my DIY'd paint booth/construction area. Cut the aluminum angle bar as per the identified length.
2. Fix the aluminum bar across the paint booth by using the 1.5 inch square hook. This is the ideal hook for this application. You can use alternative means to fix the aluminum bar if this is not available in your local hardware.

That's it! I'm thinking of adding a couple of more racks for larger diameter bottles.

2007 Nationals!

It was a great week for Philippine Scale Modelling community as IPMS Philippines BA held the 5th National Scale Modelling Competition 2007 from November 26 to 29. It was graced by Eduard CZ's Vlad Eduard and Tamiya execs from Japan and Cebu, Philippines. On to the pictures:

The 5th Nationals was a great meeting place for all kinds of modellers.

Aircraft 1/144: Winners. All details scratchbuilt. Swept by Thikboy.



Diorama:
1st Place by buccaneer: Leyte Gulf Landing, notice the beach... :)

People's Choice:



Cars Galore!


Figures:
Winner:100% Scratchbuilt Spawn


The People:


Me likes these kits:


My entries:



Visit http://www.ipmsphilippines.com for more pictures and read articles about the Nationals!