Making models is a great way to help children and adults learn fundamental skills in construction. It can help with problem-solving, math skills, engineering skills, and more. In this article, we will explore ten benefits of model-making that may surprise you.
Increased Wellbeing
It has been proven that occupying your hands with a creative task can help to calm and focus the mind. The act of making models can help to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. By focusing your mind on constructing a model, you can bring yourself into the present moment and settle the mind.
The more complex the model, the better! The added complexity of the build will stimulate your mind and ensure that you are mindful of what is right in front of you. Constructing different miniatures, whether a humanoid figurine or a miniature building, can ensure that you are filling your time with quality activities that you enjoy.
There are many different techniques that you can use when making models. From painting to gluing, there is a method for everyone. You can also find models at any difficulty level, so you can always challenge yourself with a new build.
Not only does model-making creatively occupy your time, but it can also lead to a sense of achievement and pride. Finishing a model that you have been working on can give you a sense of satisfaction that can boost your mood and increase your overall well-being.
Problem-Solving Skills
One of the benefits of model-making is that it can help improve your problem-solving skills. When you are constructing a model, you often have to find creative solutions to the problems that you encounter.
You may need to figure out how to attach two pieces together without using too much glue or how to paint a difficult area without making a mistake. By working through these problems, you can hone your problem-solving skills and learn to think outside the box.
Not only can model-making help improve your problem-solving skills, but it can also help you to become more patient. Making a model is often slow and requires a great deal of patience. By learning to be patient when making models, you can transfer this skill to other areas of your life.
Math Skills
One of the benefits of model-making that may surprise you is that it can help improve your math skills. When making a model, you often have to measure and cut pieces to the correct size. This can help improve your ability to estimate measurements and understand basic geometry.
You may also need to use math when mixing paint colors or calculating how much glue you will need for a project. By working with numbers in a creative way, you can improve your math skills without even realizing it!
Engineering Skills
Another benefit of model-making is that it can help to improve your engineering skills. Often, when making a model, you have to figure out how to put the pieces together in a way that is both structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing.
This can require a great deal of planning and forethought. By working on your engineering skills when making models, you can transfer these skills to other areas of your life.
Time with friends and family
One of the great things about model-making is that it can be a social activity. You can work on models with friends and family, bonding over a shared hobby. This can be a great way to spend time with loved ones, especially if you have similar interests.
Working on models with others can also help to improve your teamwork skills. You will need to learn to communicate and cooperate with others in order to complete the project.
Make Friends
Not only can model-making be a great way to spend time with friends and family, but it can also be a great way to meet new people. There are many model-making clubs and groups that you can join, both in person and online.
In these groups, you will meet people who share your interests and passion for model-making. This can be a great way to make new friends and expand your social circle.
Creative Outlet
For many people, model-making is a great creative outlet. It can be a way to express yourself and your interests. You can be as creative as you want when making models, choosing your own colours, designs, and styles.
Often day-to-day life can become stale if people do not have hobbies and interests that stimulate creativity. Some people can find the humdrum of office life repetitive and uninspiring. Model-making can provide a creative outlet for these people, giving them an opportunity to express themselves in a way that they enjoy.
Pride and Sense of Achievement
When you have been working on a model for some time, it can be very satisfying to finish it. Seeing the finished product, knowing that you made it, can give you a great sense of pride and achievement. This can be a great confidence booster and help you feel good about yourself.
Not only does finishing a model give you a sense of pride and achievement but working on the model can also be enjoyable in itself. Making the model can be relaxing, providing a much-needed break from the stresses of everyday life.
Flexible Schedule
One of the great things about model-making is that it is a hobby you can do at your own pace. There is no need to hurry, and you can take as long as you want to finish a project. This can be very beneficial for people who have busy schedules.
If you only have a few hours to spare each week, you can still work on your model and make good progress. This flexibility can be very helpful for people who find it difficult to commit to hobbies.
Improved Motor Skills
Working with your hands to create a model can help to improve your motor skills. This is because you will constantly be handling small pieces and tools. Over time, you will develop a better sense of coordination and accuracy.
This can have many benefits, both in your personal life and in your career. For example, if you are a doctor or nurse, improved motor skills can help you to be more dexterous. If you are a musician, improved motor skills can help you to play more complex pieces.
Having better motor skills can make many tasks in your life easier. It can also be enjoyable to see your skills improve as you work on more and more models.
Stress Relief
Model-making can also be a great way to relax and de-stress. The repetitive nature of some of the tasks can be calming, and working on a project can help to take your mind off your worries.
If stressed, taking a break to work on a model can be a great way to relax and unwind. It can also be a good way to distract yourself from stressful thoughts and situations.
Strategic Thinking
Once your models are made, if you choose to work on wargame models, you can engage in strategic thinking. Working out how to best use your models in order to win the game can be great fun and very challenging.
This can help to improve your problem-solving skills and your ability to think strategically. These skills can be beneficial in many areas of your life, both personal and professional.
If you are interested in learning how to get involved in the world of miniature wargaming we suggest you take a look at our article all about what are tabletop wargames and how you can get involved.
Join a Welcoming Amazing Community
The world of model-making can be very welcoming and inclusive. There are many different types of models, and it is sure to interest you.
Once you have found your niche, you can explore it as much or as little as you like. You can also meet other people who share your interests and passion for model-making. This can be a great way to make new friends and expand your social circle.
The model-making community is also a great source of support and advice. If you ever get stuck on a project or are unsure how to proceed, there will always be someone who can help you.
Final Thoughts
Model-making is a great hobby for people of all ages. It can be very rewarding and enjoyable, and it offers many benefits. If you are looking for a new hobby, model-making could be perfect for you.
Model-making can help you to relax, de-stress and unwind. It can also help you to improve your motor skills and strategic thinking. In addition, model-making can be a great way to meet new people and make friends. If you are looking for a hobby that offers all of these benefits, then model-making could be perfect for you.
