So I have been watching guys put models together on youtube and have seen some pretty amazing stuff. I watched a guy make parts for the plastic model out of sheets of metal and tubes that were so realistic. even parts that moved and worked like hinges for the hood and trunk. Being new to this and trying to learn, can anyone tell me what he might have used to make realistic parts and parts that moved?
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First off, welcome to the forum, Dave.
As a once in a while car guy, I can tell you that brass shim, brass tube, and brass rod are the go to items for scratch building hinges. When you anneal brass shim (available at Hobby Lobby and most hobby shops) it becomes very easy to work with.
I’ve posted quite a few times recently on things I’ve made from brass shim. It cuts with scissors, and you don’t necessarily need a Hold -n- Fold, although I would highly recommend purchasing one.
I’m sure there are videos available on making those hinges. Here’s one to get you started:
I know at least one of the model magazines from decades ago did an article on it.
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Welcome aboard Dave.
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Welcome to the forums!
As for the hinges, I think 18bravo nailed it.
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Welcome to the forums Dave.
If I could make a suggestion - Build a lot of models Out Of the Box first, until you get really good at building stock models. Get proficient on all of the basics. Then go to work on the extras and modifications. Way too many modelers go whole hog on their first kit, buying aftermarket and hacking things up, only to get frustrated and quit when things don’t go as planned. Those guys on YouTube making working hinges have been modeling for YEARS, or decades.
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Other options for hinges depending on vehicle and hinge needed once you have the basics done.
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Welcome Dave!!
I’m relatively new to this forum as well and have really appreciated the tone and helpfulness of everyone here.
RE your question- echoing what others said, start small and work your way up on complexity.
I’m a big fan of “Boomer Diorama” on YouTube. He does both scale modeling and model railroad work with tons of scratch building tutorials. This is a short video of him making some moveable parts out of scratch build materials (styrene plastic). As you’ve mentioned there are so many resources out there today. Cheers.
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Welcome to the madness Dave ….. enjoy !!
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Welcome aboard, Dave! 
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Welcome aboard have fun
TinyDog01
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