This is a simple forum for all of the website users that do scale modeling. I know that not that many website users do, but at least there's somewhere now that the few people can use to talk about painting, techniques, or anything to do with models.

It hasn't been done before and i intend to be the first! Im working on an instructible for a wooden crossbow that can fire either pencile or a special bolt with a nail tip. cost me under $5:00. Is my first but it is written well, any first thoughts?

I often want to print a diagram to scale. Often times the diagram is also larger then the sheetof paper. ( A sample diagram is at:http://www.boomerangpassion.com/plans/img/b08.gifhttp://www.boomerangpassion.com/plans/img/b08.gif. If you want to see other similar diagrams you can look at:http://www.boomerangpassion.com/plans/index_en.phphttp://www.boomerangpassion.com/plans/index_en.phpThough not all the diagrams I want to print are boomerangs.I am using Debian Etch, Cups, Gimp to modify the images which I save as postscript then print via lpr.My printer is a Lexmark Optra E312L, which can handle both pcl6 and postscript.I print the diagram once, measure something and figure the scaling factor. I then use Gimp to scale.Sometimes I just save and print sometimes, sometimes I break it up into overlapping parts and print.In either case the result is the same. Either the diagram gets shrunk to 1/4 it's size ( even though I blew it up), or the daigram it off by a bit, no matter how I tweak. it seems not to be predictable either. Worse when I try to line up two overlapping printouts the size don't match, so I can't really join them.Can someone show how to use Gimp, cups and a postscript printer to print something to scale. From everything i read I should be able to do it, but I guess there is some piece of software in the process thatis saying "Guy is too stupid to print it up right, I have to rescale for him".

I do scale models, and I was wondering; are there any places where you can download free papercraft things like buildings, army vehicles, ships, etc. for free that are in the equivelant scale of most models, suck as 1/48, 1/72, 1/35?

Does anyone know where i might download a copy of the book "Scale Aircraft Drawings vol 1" without signing up for something.

Secret To Slithering Is In The ScalesTalk of the Nation, June 12, 2009 -- How do snakes slither on smooth surfaces? Mechanical engineer David Hu, of Georgia Tech, filmed snakes slithering up inclines, outfitted them in jackets and photographed them through jello to better understand snake locomotion. The researchers published the study in the early edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences this week.NPR's video that accompanies the article has some amazingly fun shots of snakes slithering in place on surfaces too smooth for them get any traction.

As in where small things are big and big things are small. It's for an art project and I have to have some artist research.

I want my weight on my android phone can measure and track. The iPhone is a dock vita see also http://www.vitadock.com

The richter scale is used to identify the intensity of a earthquake.

I'm printing some images that need to be a specific size. I've been using Gimp to edit them, and Gimp allows you to scale down using inches, but I'm getting different sizes from each image even though their all supposed to be the same size. I'm assuming this has something to do with the images resolution, but I'm not very graphic design savvy. Also, the images are being saved as pdfs. Any suggestions?

I have a model Thomas flyer, its an old car that went on a big race, what color should the engine b? its blue right now, but im not sure

When a create files to cut with my laser cutter, I create them in InkScape, save them as DXF files, then import them into LaserCut 5.3 Unfortunately, the size of the cut file is not retained. For instance, if I create a drawing of an object around A6 in size, when I import it into LaserCut it fills the A3 workspace. Resizing for simple, flat objects isn't a major issue. However, when item cut at different times have to fit together, or, say, slots are sized to the thickness of the material, it gets to be a time-consuming issue, and sometimes wasteful of materials. Anybody know how to fix this?

I need a scale that can connect to my computer and send data to the computer, it does not need to be able to measure more than 250g, but it should have .1g increments. 

I need to hack a small postage like scale so that my arduino can weigh something?  looking to weigh something in the 0-5 pound range. There are many scales out there, here is one: http://www.harborfreight.com/digital-scale-95364.html?utm_medium=email&utm;_campaign=b&utm;_source=1002 thanks,

I want to make a strength machine and need a circular guage for it so i want to make a pull scale with the red pointer thing up to 40 lbs

I am planning another project. It will be a somewhat Portable Steam Punk Balance ( Scale ) . The idea is only one arm is to be exposed the other will be shorter and I want to attach it to ( PART? - I was going to say actuator but probably not the right part ) I want something that measures the distance it moves so it can be scaled to what the weight is. I want to hook this up to an Arduino to to the scaling and then output it to a display. The part will be hidden so looks are not important , I just want to know what is the name of that part and any sources would be greatly appreciated. TIA for those that help. Gunther45

I have old train from Marklin Hobby 2905 set  When i turn on train PSU i can hear relay working but train doesnt move (motor doesnt work)  I have tested motor with multimeter and it beeps (coils are ok) and when i tested electromagnet it also beeps Can somebody show me how to repair it?

I'm working on a diorama that has my local model shop in it, so i figured that, even though the windows are tinted, i can at least put some models and stuff laying around... so i could make paper model boxes. i have the dimensions, but i have two problems. 1) i don't know how to transfer my calculations (1cm x0.7cm x0.4cm) to the computer, and 2) i dont know how to make the model boxes 1/24 smaller without losing virtually al the detail... obviously im not looking for something perfect, but i also dont want the box top to be some random coloured pixels. can someone help with this? i could draw them, but i was hoping to offer these to other people, by making an instructable.

I'm working on a project using a scale. I would like this scale to be able to submit data to my computer via bluetooth. How can I configure my digital scale to use bluetooth?

I am doing a project to repurpose a Westinghouse KX-241 switchboard meter as a CPU process meter for my PC.  To to this I will have to make a new scale for the meter.  Here is the type of meter in question: http://www.allsbrookelectric.com/media/0e/a20792a12cc1c0e3dc7d2f_m.JPG The scale on the meter I have does not match the scale I need, which is 0 to 100 (percent).  This is a simple task: Just remove the scale from the meter, scan it, and modify the image as necessary with Corel Draw.  Then print the new scale on glossy paper and adhere it to the top of the meter scale.  Simple.  Except, if you notice in the picture, the scale of the meter is not all flat.  The outer edge of the scale where the lines are is angled outward.  If I try to apply a printed scale to this, the printed scale will have creases where the paper negotiates the angled portion.  Any ideas of how I can manage this without creases?

I'm wanting to build a large shipping scale with capabilities of measuring up to 2400 lb's.  I'm curious if anyone has done anything like this and could give me advice.  I was thinking of combining 6-400 lb. scales with an arduino and simply displaying the sum of their weights on an LCD screen.  Do you think this would work?

Ive heard of a scale modeling forum, but i cant find it. can anyone help me? 

Check this out, am almost finished instructible.

How small can a windbelt be made? I am hoping it is possible to make it at least 10cm

I need to measure the current of a Tesla coils secondary output and have found that it is under 1mA and above 50uA so how can I scale a 50uA DC micro ammeter or a DC milliammeter (can't remember its range) to the appropriate range?

I would like a welcome mat that would display the persons weight on an eye level digital readout [large].  I have people over a lot and I think this would a great way to start the ladies party.  I have  scales in small hallway and have beeen surprised at  how many people get on it. I love this web page and marlvel at the things ya'll make.  I am so envious. Gail gandr1212@aol.com

I am working on a project and have a large tank full of product kind of a greasy substance trying to heat up to temp of 180 degrees. the tank currently has a 4 inch pipe running inside wall all around tank for heat transference.. At this location a boiler is not a option at this time . I was curious if anyone ha s ever attempted a large induction heater build one that would encase a 4 inch pipe and heat liquid inside so thermal transfer would heat our product. Sorry for not including all details at this time i just curious if large induction heat was possible or efficient ?Thanks,

Hi, I am the art director on a very low-budget but so-far amazing movie. I want to make an inexpensive but professional looking model of an observatory. So far, I am thinking of using sculpey. Can anyone please help with some leads? I know I could put this together, but instructables, websites, or comments about materials or construction would help immensely. This website is full of resourceful people. Thanks!

Hello all, I'm dont have much basic knowledge about electronics and I got a problem. I've built this exact Instructable: https://www.instructables.com/id/Build-a-Thermal-Flashlight-Light-Painting-with-T/?ALLSTEPS I want to drive a 1m RGB LED strip with it so I've changed the NPN transistors to stronger ones that handle 0.5 A, it's the only components that are different. These are the exact NPN transistors: https://www.elfa.se/elfa3~eu_en/elfa/init.do?item=71-014-58&toc;=0&q;=BC337-25 Problem: the circuit works fine with ONE RGB LED but it does not work with even the smallest bit of RGB-strip (3 emitters). Goal is to drive a 1m strip and that consumes 14.4W @ 12V. Im using 12V 1A adapter for the Arduino and another 12V 2.5A for the LED-strip. What am I not understanding?

I want to know how to make my own 1/24th scale tank treads? at low cost to me.

Hi Folks,   Measure from the fret side of the nut to the middle of the top of the 12th fret whatever distance that is, double it and thats the scale, for instance my tele is 12 3/4" so double it and my scale is 25.5 Also use this to set intonation from the middle of the  top of the 12th fret in my case with the tele I would measure 12 3/4" to the top middle of the bridge....This is where you start you intonation from. Picture me playing lead with apache' 1979 Hendra 2000 in attendance

Hello! please help, im making a scale model car wash that uses 4 brushes and top cloth strips to clean the car. How can i get the arms that hold the brushes to go in and out to wash the front and the back of the car? PLEASE HELP!!!

I had the idea for a prank I would love to try at some point, but I'm having some issues with the basic idea... What I need is a way to hook up either a sensor or button to a scale. What I want to have done is when someone steps on the scale, and exceeds a certain weight (say 50 pounds, just to make sure a pet won't set it off) it will act as a button, and toggle on a small speaker which will just scream at them. Cruel, I know, but it'll be a fun laugh if I can get it working. Any help is greatly appreciated!

What movies would you give a 10 on a 1 to 10 scale? Mine would be- The Empire Strikes Back, Back to the Future, Spirited Away, The Dark Knight, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, Raiders of the Lost Ark, Nightmare Before Christmas, Avatar, The Sixth Sense, Lord of the Rings: Return of the King

Im working on a model truck, and its going to be on  the beach. i just need a paint colour in tamiya, model masters, or testors.ive tried tamiya dark yellow, but i dont rly like it.

I'm looking for a good example of how to interface some load cells I have with an arduino.   I haven't found a whole lot in that area here on instructables. I recently received a code for a 3 month Pro membership for having a featured instructible I made, and I will pass the membership on to the person I think submits the best, most complete write-up.  Deadline is May 31st, 2014, or until I find a good one :) Success criteria: -------------------------------------------- *Relatively cheap parts (under $20 USD) *Includes a schematic that can be built on perf-board with a plain-old soldering iron (no tiny surface mount parts, please) *Includes some basic code to run on the arduino for proof-of-concept that reads weight from the load cell. Here's some info on the load cells I have: -------------------------------------------- Rated Load: 5Kg Rated Output: 2.0mV/V±0.2mV/V Creep: 0.014%F.S./30min Input End: Red+(Excitation), Black-(Excitation) Output End: Green+(signal), White-(signal) Recommended operating voltage: 5 ~ 12 VDC Input Impedance: 1060±15%Ω Output Impedance: 1000±5%Ω Protection class: IP65 Accuracy class: OIML R60 C3 Thanks & good luck!

I'm used to the archaic way of drafting floor plans ... T square + triangle + canary paper + pencil and eraser.  I need software that will let me make scale drawings on the computer. I've tried ProDraw and another trial, but all the 'helpful' stuff keeps getting in my way.   I don't want to drag every line around. So does anyone know of a (hopefully free or inexpensive) simple grid & line & scale system that will let me draw the lines where  I want them to be?     I have photoshop elements 1.0 and love it.  But I don't see how to make scale drawings on it.   Thanks.

Hi, for a school-project I need to measure the weight of an object. Therefore I am using an old weight-scale. The component wich includes 2 Strain Gauges has 2 seperated wires coming out and 1 other wire conected to the Ground. Because we can't find something changing when we measure differend kinds of things, (for example the changing resistor-value) we hope that you can help us. The two wires coming out of the Strain Gauges are connected to an Amplifier (TL081CP). The scale itself is a KRUPS TYP 841 ; 871-B Thanks!

I got some free plans off of the internet, but when i print them off at 100% the scale is off by a little, can anyone help me out I am really hoping to build this plane.

We are planning to do several models from Star Wars as Halloween Costumes. I have a papercraft model of an AT-ST, Darth Vaders Tie Fighter, and an Xwing. And potentially a millenium Falcon. These are currently 1/16" models.  Our plan is to scale them up to about 6 feet to use as a pattern then put them over cardboard or corrugated board. What is the best/cheapest way to achieve this? I have them in a locked .pbo file and in pdf

Hundreds of picture frames in a family room is overwhelming and cluttered.  Instead of having an individual picture frame for each photograph you want to show off, display all of your pictures on your wall with this plexiglas photo display found on anh-minh.  You could have a few smaller versions of this in one room.  Keep it tasteful by being conscious about where you place the displays and be sure to not clutter your walls!

I was watching this video about hempcrete. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=il7yw0JFs5c It is supposed to be just made of lime, shredded hemp stalk (which you can replace with straw if not available) and water. There is also briefly mentioned a lime heating process, but nothing more detailed than that. I'm not into making a house with this, but I would be interested in making things like plant pots, small tables and stools, and various artwork with it. I need more info though. Like... Is there a specific kind, or prepared lime I need to use? What is this heating process you need to do to it? What parts lime to hemp/straw is recommended? How long is the curing process? It seems like you could make some neat things out of this, but I haven't found anyone doing so. Are there any experts that could offer advice about this kind of thing? Thanks.

Hey everyone, I hope im posting this in the right spot.  I run a large farming operation and get my water from a well that pumps into a large storage tank about 10 feet deep and 6ft diameter.   Because the well is very old I'm not able to add things like a float that will turn it on or off for me so I'm constantly having to check the well though out the day and if the cows are more thirsty one day they can drink the storage tank dry and that causes me problems with my pump, or if i leave it to long it will overflow and it makes a terrible mess. So im wondering if there is a way that I can wire up a water level indicator in the well-house and have a light board in my house that shows me the level of the well.  So for a 10 ft deep well id have an led light for every 1ft or so and when the water level gets to the top foot a buzzer would go off and when it hits the bottom foot or 2 ft then a buzzer would go off.  Ideally a wireless transmitting to the house would be best but I have no idea how that could work.  And wired would be hard with the well house being a few hundred feet away from my house.  I've done a lot of googling and haven't found anything that would suite a large scale water tank like this.  I purely want to be able to see in my house where the water level is and have it warn me when its too high or too low.  I apologize since i don't have a lot of experience in electronics.  Any help is greatly appreciated as i have no idea where to start or if its even possible.  Thanks guys!

I'm so excited, I now have + hours of video to cut and share :)Today we:Finished the split standSet the finished plug in the stand and aligned our waterlineBondo'd stand and plug for a flange lineApplied mold release waxSprayed PVA (Poly Vinyl alcohol)Applied a polyester tooling resin with cabosil (A silica thickener) to serve as the inner mold face (outer shape/surface of final product)Applied 4 layers of chopped fiber with polyester resin (took about an hour and we're still a tad bit high - even with good ventilation)Mind you the resin is catalyzed with MEK-P (Methyl Ethyl Keytone Peroxide -- some call it rocket fuel. It will eat the flesh off the bone and then eat the bone.Why am I so excited? Because we finished today and the catalyzed resin was COOK-ING. "Too hot to touch" is about 180 for the average meat human. It's well above too hot to touch - in fact, the radiant heat is a bit much for most meat peoples. And that's with the prescribed 1% catalyst.More information coming soon :) It's going to take 8 hours to capture all that video :PPhoto: Adding more PVA to the pot in the middle of the second coat.

 I'd like to include scale-indicator objects in some of my photos; but rulers are boring, and dollar bills or US coins seem kind of US-centric. What small, preferably common-household-type, objects are the same size all over the world?

I have a model PT boat 109 ( in 1/72 scale) and the propellers are broken. I figure the best way to do this is to just throw the boat in a diorama scene, so it is at the waterline. Can anyone help, because I have no idea how to do the water, and i was wondering if there was any realistic water things that I can make at home, or buy for pretty cheap.

Comic book artist Jim Woodring is proposing to engineer and build a giant steel-nibbed dip pen to be used for public drawing instruction and demonstration which will also be performance art.  He's soliciting donations to make this quixotic project a reality.  Pretty cool, I think. I can't get the video to embed here.  You can view it at http://projectsite.unitedstatesartists.org/project/giant_steel_dip_pen_and_penholder_for_demonstration_and_display. I'm amazed at how well he's thought this out and how passionate he is about pen-and-ink drawing.

Just got new bathroom scale(s). What can I do with the old one(s)? It has analog not digital readout...and is it SCALES OR SCALE??? 

I have a huge 35th scale hobby boss canadian leopard tank, and i was just wondering what color the bottom and tank crew should be.