All the models shown and for sale on this site were built by me. I work from my garage here in Leicestershire in the UK, and I have been building models seriously for the last 15 years or so. I build mostly straight out of the box, using just what comes with the kit and a few additions to add details like seat belts and extra detail where appropriate.
I paint all my models in Tamiya acrylic paints using an Iawata Revolution airbrush along with rattle-cans and brush painted fnishes when required. On most of my builds I weather the kit using a variety of techniques and finishes depending on what is appropriate for the vehcle in question.
Some kits (particularly older kits or commissions) require a bit more, and then I am happy to use detail sets and after-market decals etc – as well as occasionally engraving panel lines where the only option for that aircraft is an older kit with raised lines.
Other than that, the only additional things I apply to every single model and at every stage is Radio 4 or an Audible audio book, tea or beer depending on the time and day, and a copious amount of absolutely foul language every time I drop a piece or mess something up.
Very, very carefully! I have sent models all over the world – some more than a metre wide – so I have learned to do everything possible to make sure they survive delivery.
Unfortunately, very occasionally that still isn’t enough. Some deliveries appear to have literally been reversed over by the delivery vehicle – and there is nothing anyone can do to protect against that.
That’s why if you are in the UK I will happily meet you in the middle to hand over the model in person.
Delivery within the UK is included in the prices, and I am happy to deliver overseas at cost.
The way I package up models should see them through the delivery process successfully, but please bear in mind that these models are fragile and I can’t guarantee small parts won’t get detached in transit. I am happy to add insurance to the delivery cost, but all insurance companies are utter ©@!@$ and may will try to wriggle out of paying – so this will only cover if they lose the parcel completely.
Please also be aware that you are liable for any import duties etc – although some of my customers ask me to send the models as gifts, which I am happy to do.
If you order a model that has already been built I will normally post it to you within 5 days, and it should arrive with you a few days later. That gives me time to package the model very carefully for you to make as sure as possible that the model arrives safely.
Obviously custom builds take longer – usually around 3 weeks to actually build, but I have a waiting list which obviously varies depending on how busy I am – but typically is between 3 and 5 months.
If you need your model for a particular time just let me know and I will do my best to meet your timescale.
Delivery costs will vary by model. I include delivery to the UK mainland, but for anywhere else in the world I will have to quote you separately depending on the location and size of model etc.
If you are outside the UK mainland and see a model you would like, please contact me for a quote – or you are welcome to arrange collection from me here if you prefer.
Obviously models are by their very nature immensely fragile, and unfortunately there is no way I can guarantee that some parts won’t get damaged in transit.
If this happens, contact me and I will advise the best way to fix the problem. Normally the customer is able to reattach the elements with superglue – that is how I fix most of these elements, and they will usually reattach quite easily.
If the damage is worse but still repairable, you can arrange to return the model and I will fix it and return it.
If you are concerned, the safest way to receive the model is to meet up with me to collect it in person – and wherever possible I would much prefer to do that.
Bottom line is – No. But hopefully there will not be the need.
I really don’t want to leave customers unhappy, but nor do I want to be left out of pocket – so I take a 50% deposit up front for the build, plus the full cost of the kit. This is non returnable – but is basically so that between us we share the risk.
Once the build is completed, I will send you a video of the finished build so you can check you are happy with it before paying the remainder and delivery. If there are any issues I will do my best to resolve them and make sure you are happy – and that the model matches the agreed spec and is my usual high standard (if I do say so myself).
If we can’t agree, you just change your mind or your situation changes before the final payment, you will lose your 50% deposit and I will have to sell the build elsewhere.
You will be liable for any and all import duties to receive the model in your country. Unfortunately I cannot advise you on this as I am not an expert, so please check before you order if this is a concern.
If for any reason you choose not to accept the delivery and it is returned to me, I will not be able to issue a refund.