Hobby Central

2007-08-22T15:39:00.001+09:30

Antique Toys

by Toni Harris

Antique toys should not be considered collectibles, but should instead be recognized as fine crafted objects created by skilled designers and artisans of the nineteenth century.

Antique toys are generally considered to be those made around WWII or earlier, at least fifty years ago.

Antique toys are popular collector items these days and many collectors are attracted to curious items. Antique toys are purchased from everyone all over the world for the stories they tell, and the eras. Almost any toy that is over 10 years old and still in reasonable condition will qualify as an 'antique toy'

Factors that you have to look at when you prefer collecting antique toys is the condition and years of existence of the toy you will purchase. Collecting antique toys is rewarding, enriching and also great fun. Many collectors are also realize that antique toys make a good investment in addition to the pure pleasure part of the hobby.

Wood and tin are more durable than glass or some of the plastics, and antique toys made from wood and metals are usually in better condition than those made from tin, glass and other breakable materials.

You can find antique toys at specialized online toy collecting Web sites, garage sales, flea markets practically anywhere you may care to look. You can buy antique toys from auction houses, antique toy dealers and other toy collecting community resources on the Web.

Caring for antique toys is important and cleaning them should be minimized. Their workmanship and styling make antique toys suitable accents to any collectors home, whether placed on a sleek, ultramodern shelving unit or on a Philadelphia Chippendale dressing table.

The market for antique toys is currently very strong, with private sale and auction results continuing to increase. Among the most popular antique toys are mechanical banks, in part because of their animated movements; cast-iron automotives and horse-drawn toys are also favored. True antique toys are rare treasures and, usually, worth a pretty penny depending on quality and condition.

Collectible toys are all antique toys, of course, along with those made within the last fifty years that have withstood the test of time and piqued the imagination and interest of toy lovers and collectors.

Antique Toys are agreat investment. While modern toys offer opportunities for great appreciation, antique toys are an established market. Still there are people who collect antique toys like those old tops, wind-up toys, figurines and train sets. Whether it is the thrill of the hunt, the research of the item, its artistic splendour, precision design, historical significance, or the camaraderie of the toy-collecting world, antique toys are a truly rewarding and fulfilling pursuit.

The most accessible sources for antique toys are dealers. Perhaps the best source of all for good antique toys is other collectors. For a few dollars, you can purchase an antique toys pricing guide and have a firm understanding of how to find a bargain. One of the most sought after antique toys are the wooden rockinghorses. Buying and selling antique toys can be a great way to make somemoney. If you would like to check the value of any antique toys that you may have, you can go online and find many outlets that can help you.

Almost any toy that is over 10 years old and still in reasonable condition will qualify as an 'antique toy'

About the Author

Toni Harris an avid collector of Antique Toys

www.jacksworldshop.com/vintage-antique-toys

2007-08-22T15:38:00.003+09:30

Toys - Tonka

Tonka Toys. Even the name sounds tough. And make no mistake about it. Tonka toys were tough, especially back in the good old days when toys were made to last, or as they would say in their TV commercials, "They're made Tonka tough". Yes, every tough kid had to have his Tonka truck. So when did this all start? How long has Tonka been cranking out these tough trucks?

Tonka started in 1947. The first trucks were made by a company called Mound Metalcraft. The company was located in Mound, Minnesota in a very small warehouse. No, this wasn't what you would call a big business when it began. The company itself actually specialized in manufacturing garden tools, which had to be tough. Taking that some technology and approach, they began making some of the toughest trucks ever put together.

In their first year alone, Mound Metalcraft manufactured over 37,000 of these tough trucks. This in spite of the fact that they only had two designs. The two designs were a steam shovel and a crane. Oh and in case you're wondering, the word Tonka means "great" in Sioux.

After World War II Tonka trucks became very popular with post war families. The demand for these trucks was so great that it far outweighed production. A year of the company's inventory would be sold out in just a few months.

The whole premise of the Tonka company and one that they refused to ever compromise on, was that their toys should be durable and give your child as much play time as possible out of them. They felt that there was no reason their toys shouldn't last for many years. And they did.

In the almost 60 years since the first Tonka toys were made, over 250 million of them have been sold. To this day, their vehicles are made to withstand just about anything you can throw at them. What began as just two trucks has grown into a whole line of trucks and playsets.

Over the years there have been some milestones in the Tonka legacy. It took over 17 years since their first truck, but in 1964 the most popular truck that they ever made, the Mighty Dump, came into existence. No truck of theirs ever sold more units. Between 1965 and 1972 was what was called the "Mighty Age". This is when the Tonka Mighty Series grew tremendously, giving us titles like the Mighty Clam, Crane, Shovel, Scraper, Car Carrier, Bulldozer, Wrecker, Hydraulic Dump, Roller, Bottom Dump, Mixer, Loadmaster and Grader. These were some of the most popular trucks ever.

Between 1973 and 1982 Tonka added more vehicle categories. This period of time gave us the Rescue Vehicle, Car Carrier, Forklift, Earth Mover, Adventure Buggy and, believe it or not, the Mighty Winnebago.

Over the next 25 years Tonka continued to produce quality products and new additions such as Chuck My Talking Truck, the first talking Tonka Toy.

Tonka promises to come out with trucks that are even tougher than the ones made almost 60 years ago.

That is going to be a tough act to follow.

2007-08-22T15:38:00.001+09:30

Radio Flyer - An American Legend

Radio Flyer has been an iconic American brand for over 8 decades producing high quality wagons and ride-on toys. The classic little red wagon has featured on numerous American movies and TV shows over the years making it instantly recognisable to audiences worldwide. The amazing Radio Flyer range is now available in the UK thanks to stylish kid's retailer MonkeyShine.

Founded in Chicago by Italian immigrant, Antonio Pasin the Liberty Coaster Company (named after the Statue of Liberty) started building wooden toy wagons in 1917. The original No 4 Liberty Coaster was an overnight success in the United States, selling in huge quantities throughout the 20's and 30's.

In 1930 the Company was renamed Radio Steel & Manufacturing. The first steel wagon produced was named Radio Flyer after Pasin's fascination with the invention of the radio by fellow Italian, Guglielmo Marconi; and Flyer, which reflected his wonderment of flight.

During World War II the company assisted the war effort producing special oil cans known as Blitz cans for the US Army. This helped to cement the reputation of the company with the US public making the Radio Flyer wagon a family favourite.

Throughout the second half of the 20th century, Radio Flyer became well known for the popular red flyer wagon. The quality of the company's steel wagons ensured they were passed from generation to generation making them a common site on American sidewalks and back yards.

Today, in addition to the classic red wagon the company produces a wide range of children's toy vehicles, including rocking horses, bicycles and tricycles. The entire range still retains the inherent build quality and longevity that made the company such a success.

The amazing Radio Flyer range including the classic wagon has now been tested to ensure compliance with British safety standards and is available in the UK through MonkeyShine.

2007-08-22T15:36:00.001+09:30

RC Cars-Toys For The Big Boys

They say that boys will be boys and although that can be a very subjective generalization, the evolution of boy's toys into a hobby for grown men can attest to the fact that some boys never grow up-at least in terms of their toy cars.

RC (radio controlled) cars is the general term for any car model that uses a radio control system for remote management. However, there are two types of RC cars: the toy grade, which was designed for young boys; and the hobby grade which is the choice of adolescent boys and men of all ages.

The only similarity between the toy and hobby grade RC cars is that they are both models of land vehicles that are used via remote radio control system. The main difference in the two types of models however is that the toy grade one is just a bunch molded plastic that resembles the look of a miniature car, while the hobby grade types are actual miniature models of vehicles that come with individual parts assembled much like a real, full sized car. In fact, hobby grade RC cars are treated exactly like real cars because it requires regular maintenance and run on actual miniature car engines.

Some hobby grade RC cars run on electrically propelled machines while the rest run on fuel powered engines. The complexity of hobby grade RC cars is probably the main attraction for men of all ages. That and the fact that hobby grade RC cars are made for racing that allow men to compete with each other using their personalized racing cars. An RC cars hobbyist will have to decide whether he wants a fuel powered or electric powered vehicle. On both types of engines, there will be trade offs.

For instance, electric powered RC cars are generally lighter than their fuel powered counterparts. However, fuel powered RC cars are faster than their electric counterparts. These trade offs are analyzed by the hobbyist in making his decision on which type of RC car to own. All these hobby grade RC cars come with complex parts that can be expanded and changed so that a hobbyist can own a fuel powered car which he can change for an electric engine if he wants.

Because the RC cars are used for racing, they are fitted with extra powerful radio controlled systems that allow remote control from many distances. Not only that, since there are different terrain in which an RC car race can be held, there are also off-road models suited for all terrain racing because of their wheels and suspension.

Whether your RC car is electric or fuel powered, you can be assured that your car will need a lot of maintenance from repair and upgrading of car parts to cleaning and tuning to make sure that your race machine can hold its own out on the race track among other RC cars.

So you see, these RC cars are true toys for the bog boys. They are something that can be appreciated by grown ups in terms of complexity and ability for real races and it allows men to feel like boys again even for just a while.

2007-08-22T15:29:00.000+09:30

Fly Ferrari 250 GTO, part 2

by Arie Viewer

Here is part 2 of this article

By the way, watch out for the photo-etched hood clips when handling this slot car. They're sharp. I cut a finger on one of them.

Another problem area is the right windshield wiper, which rides well off the windshield on both review slot cars. This not only does not look good but also makes the wiper more vulnerable to damage. A fix for the problem is simply to rotate the wipers upward on the windshield, partway through their arc, until they reach a position where both are flat against the glass.

More significant is the misalignment in the fit of the front valence. On both my review cars the part was offset slightly to one side and there was a slight gap between the parts on the left side. The severity of the misfit seems to vary between cars, so this one thing may be worth going through your dealer's stock of the cars (if he'll let you) and picking out the best one.

The interior is nicely done with correct seats and instruments, switches, and shift lever. The driver figure, however, is a disappointment. He's a parts bin component, made for use in much newer cars and therefore dressed in the kind of bulky firesuit and thick gloves which are common today but still in the future in 1962. The helmet is also of a design not seen until many years later. In addition, the driver is wearing a full 5-point quick-release safety harness. I may be mistaken about this but I believe that in 1962 the GTO was equipped only with a lap belt. The effect is to make the car look like one being campaigned in present-day vintage racing with the upgrades required to comply with current safety rules. It's possible that Fly, in researching the car, had access to one or more GTOs updated in exactly this way and didn't realize that some of the safety features may not have been part of the original fit. That said, the belt assembly, which is a separate part from the driver figure itself, is beautifully done and most likely will be seen on other cars where it may be more period-authentic. Those wishing to complete the vintage-racer look need only equip the driver with a full-face helmet and a HANS device to bring him up to the cutting edge of safety. One welcome positive is the excellent fit between the driver's hands and the steering wheel.

The GTO's wheels and tires have also come in for some criticism, at least some of it justified. To begin with, the tires are slicks, definitely out of place on a car from the early 60s. The wheels, though nice looking, do not match the real thing, as seen in the photos below.

There have also been complaints that the car rides too high, especially in front. I think there is room for honest disagreement here, as an examination of photos of 1:1 scale GTOs reveals some that do appear to sit lower to the ground than others. Two factors may be at work. First, it's quite possible that the cars may have been set up higher for some circuits than others, especially for races on public roads that may not have been as billiard-table smooth as modern race tracks tend to be. Also, the 250 GTO appeared right at the beginning of an era in which tire construction, widths, and profiles changed rapidly, and changes in tires may have affected the cars' stance. In any case, I lowered the front end of one of the review models by simply shaving about 1/16" off the front body posts, and there's room to lower it even more if needed. While you're working on the body posts, another mod you can do is to reinforce the posts with styrene tubing. I used Evergreen 15/64" o.d. tubing, available at most hobby shops. This will pretty well ensure that you will never have a broken or cracked post to fix. You could get the car still lower by installing lower-profile tires, but if you do you'll have to start trimming off protrusions from the bottom of the chassis to maintain ground clearance.

It's Fly's standard practice to put each model's motor in the same general location as the engine on the 1:1 scale car, a policy going all the way back to the first Dodge Viper of 10 years ago. This, of course, allows the models to be made with a full-depth interior. On the GTO, however, the motor seems to be even farther forward than it needs to be. A look through the aforementioned side vents reveals empty space that looks like it could have been used to move the motor farther aft. Whether that would have made it possible to use a solid front axle instead of the none-too popular plastic stub axles remains to be researched for another article.

The front motor does make the car's handling heavily magnet-dependent, and Fly has made sure the rear end stays firmly stuck down by using a very strong neodymium magnet placed just forward of the drive shaft bushing. The result is consistent lap times on the Electric Dreams Scalextric Sport test track in the 4.2-second range with a best time of 4.036. That makes the car about half a second too fast for my scheme of things. My Corvettes lap in the 4.5-second range, and the GTO should be a tenth or two slower. Yes, you read that right. A 250 GTO is actually slower, at least on shorter circuits, than a well-prepared SCCA Corvette. There's a saying among vintage racers: What's a 5 million dollar Ferrari good for? It's the best seat you can have for watching $30,000 Corvettes go by.

So, Fly's GTO is fast. But, it's not all that much fun to drive. It's simply too stuck down for the amount of power it has. Thus, on the test track the fast way around involves holding the trigger all the way down except for three quick blips of the throttle per lap. That gets boring pretty quickly. In addition, the motor reaches dangerous temperatures in just a few minutes even though everything is properly lubed and turning freely.

Fortunately, it's easy to up the fun factor and increase motor life while getting the speeds down to a more reasonable level. As it happens, there is room just forward of the original magnet position to glue in a wider, longer Scalextric or Slot-it magnet, as shown in the photo below. This gives you less total downforce but spreads it over more of the car's width. You will still have magnetic grip, though not quite as much, but more important, you will have it over more of the car's width and, therefore, at greater cornering angles. The car will be somewhat slower but much more entertaining to drive. In short, you will be setting up your Fly car essentially as Scalextric cars come from the factory.

With this modification the car turned a best time of 4.972 seconds. That's a couple of tenths slower than I was aiming for, but the car is now much more drivable and fun. It should be no problem to gain those tenths with either a Slot It magnet, which is a little stronger than the Scalextric, or with silicone tires. By trying different combinations of three factors, magnet strength, magnet location, and tires, you can tune almost any group of cars to a common performance standard.

As always, I decline to state whether the car's dimensions are precisely to 1:32 scale. However, Fly has done a truly wonderful job of capturing the look and character of the 1:1 scale car and presenting it to a quality standard that should please almost everyone. Fly has even done a good job of making the car sturdy and crashworthy. After all the testing for this article, including the usual quota of crashes, not a single part is missing or even showing any damage. The car's driving characteristics will not be to everyone's liking, but it has the very useful virtue of being easily tuneable. After years of Fly products that have often fallen well short of justifying their prices, here's one that, even with its shortcomings, offers excellent value for the money.

2007-08-21T22:39:00.001+09:30

Model Cars - An Old Hobby Thats New Again

by Guy Scott

The model kit car hobby began in the post WW II era with Ace and Berkeley wooden model cars. Revell pioneered the plastic model car with their famous Maxwell kit derived from a toy. Derk Brand, from England pioneered the first real plastic kit, a 1932 Ford Roadster for Revell. He was also famous for developing a line of 1/32 scale model car kits in England for the Gowland brothers. These kits were later introduced by Revell in the US.

AMT began producing assembled 1/25 "Promo" models in the early fifties.These were an outgrowth of promotional models manufactured for automobile dealers. Youngsters would be given the scale models to play with while the parents and the salesman haggled. Collecting and trading these "promos" soon became a popular hobby.

During the 1950s and 1960s, interest in the hobby peaked, as many companies started to profit from the interest in the promo cars. AMT, Jo-Han, Revell and Monogram started producing model car kits during this time, and it was considered a "golden age" for model kit cars. Most of these kits were known as "annual" kits, kit versions of the promos that represented the new cars that were introduced at the beginning of each model year. AMT, Jo-Han and later MPC were the primary promo manufacturers. In addition to building them stock, most annual kits were known as "3 in 1" which allowed the builder to assemble them as stock, custom, or racing versions. Model Products Corp. joined the kit/promo business in 1965. Among their first annual kits/promos, was the full-size Dodge Monaco, which was released with a gold metallic painted body and is a valuable collector's item today. These plastic models were intricately detailed, with body scripts, trim, and emblems, as well as dashboard details, exact duplicates of the real thing, in 1/25 scale. Typically, each automaker would license their cars to one model company. For example, Jo-Han produced Cadillac models and promos, AMT did Chevrolet and Ford cars. Often these companies would change, for example Jo-Han produced the 1972 Ford Torino, and MPC did full-size Chevrolets in the early and mid 1970s. Typically, the kits had more parts and details than the promos. For example, kits often had opening hoods, separate engines and suspension parts, while the promos were molded with hood as part of the body, and chassis with metal axles and one-piece chassis with suspension details molded in. 1969 and 70 Chevy Impala kits were made by both MPC and AMT.

Some model companies sold broken-down versions of the promo cars, which were typically easier to assemble than the annual kits. They were often molded in color (instead of white) and snapped and screwed together (thus no glue or paint was required). When assembled they were almost identical to promos. Today these often command higher prices, especially AMT's "Craftsman" series of the early- and mid-Sixties.

Interest in model cars began to wane in the mid-1970s as a result of builders growing older and moving on to other pursuits. By the early 1980s, model building had been largely replaced by video gaming as a favorite pastime of American youth. A resurgence was experience in the late 1980s, due to many who been involved in the hobby in past years rediscovering it. Monogram helped spark the revival with a series of replicas of NASCAR race cars, as did AMT with a kit of the 1966 Chevrolet Nova, which modelers had been requesting for years. Today, many of the classic models from the golden age of modeling have been reissued. Not only does this allow modelers to build the cars they always wanted (but couldn't obtain or afford), but it tends to lower the prices of the originals. In some cases, the classic models have been issued with all-new tooling, which allows for even more detailing that comes with modern manufacturing/design methods. These include AMT's 1966 Fairlane and 1967 Impala SS, and Monogram's 1967 Chevelle and 1965 Impala Super Sport.

Today, these companies are still in business, fueled by a renewed interest in model car building and collecting. ERTL now owns both AMT and MPC. Revell and Monogram have merged, and Okey Spaulding has purchased once-defunct Jo-Han, which is producing a few of its original models in limited quantites, including the 1963 Chrysler Turbine Car, 1959 Rambler station wagon, and some of its original 1950s Oldmobiles and Plymouths. Modelers today take advantage of modern technology, which includes photo-etched details, adhesive chrome foil for chrome trim, wiring for engines, and aluminum-billeted parts. Many builders today can take a basic kit and detail it so it resembles a real car, in miniature.

Stop by http://www.modelcarshow.com for info about diecast and model car kits.

About the Author

Guy Scott is a Photographer and entrepreneur that is currently traveling the country by truck.

2007-08-21T22:38:00.002+09:30

Turn Your Hobby Into A Business

by by Karen Barnes, IAHBE Staff Writer

Turn Your Hobby Into A Business by Karen Barnes, IAHBE Staff Writer, ( http://www.moreinfo247.com/93983.93/IAHBE ) Each year many people earn a living from their hobbies. Hobbies are one of the most under-used income opportunities around. Many people have realized that the skill and imagination they have developed through their hobbies are invaluable to those who appreciate and seek them out. Hobbies range from woodworking to crocheting to fishing to writing. Your hobby is not only relaxing to you but it also can be a source of income when you sell it to other people who are unable to make or find it themselves. With time constraints for many people these days--and the inability to find the time and energy to make these projects or learn these skills themselves--many will pay for such items and services from individuals who have the skill and know-how to produce what others are wanting. A classic example of a hobby that earns individuals a nice income each year is woodworking. Woodworking projects can range from something as simple as planter boxes to items that are as complicated as furniture pieces. I have known individuals throughout my lifetime that have made a part-time income from building small wooden lawn ornaments and lawn furniture. With their part-time income from their hobby, they have taken trips and cruises that they would normally have been unable to do with their regular paychecks from their jobs. I have known other hobbyists who have not only done the same as the woodworker I mentioned but also have been asked to work on consignment for their pieces. I know of a few ladies who crochet doilies for their pastime who have been asked to crochet doilies and tablecloths for other crafters for their display tables and cases with payment for their services. Bead work is another craft that can be very lucrative. Many beaders find it more lucrative to have their crafts displayed for sale in consignment shops that will take care of the selling part of the hobby. While selling your hobby pieces to those who visit arts and craft shows in your area, consignment shops, and to other crafters are common and popular ways to market your crafts, creating a network of friends and family who have your projects around their homes is also a great way to gain more customers for you. With this type of word-of-mouth advertising, your income earnings could be surprising. If you haven't yet ventured into the sales world with your hobby, you probably have many questions about what you need to know to make this happen. Let's get into this a little bit deeper with some typical, yet simple, questions and answers: 1. Where would you find places to sell your crafts? Arts and Craft Shows--Many communities have Arts and Crafts shows in all seasons by setting up Arts and Craft Fairs at community buildings, such as armories, 4-H buildings, county fair grounds, and any other civic buildings. Check with any local city office for days and times that they are having these shows. The city clerk's office usually will have a list of these events because the sponsors of these shows will have to go there to get permits for holding their events. Check with the sponsors for any fees they may charge, such as booth rent, sign-up fees, deposits, etc. These charges may be tax deductible. Consignment Shops can be found in any of your local telephone books or newspapers. Call or go by these shops and talk to the owners about using their shops to sell your items for you. You will also need to ask the owner how much they charge you for selling your crafts, renting a booth, etc. These charges can be tax deductible. 2. When is the best time of year to sell your crafts? Arts and Crafts shows are mainly held in two seasons. The first season is in the spring when the general public is looking for new home decorating and lawn and garden ideas to revitalize their homes. They may even be looking for summer holidays decorations. The second season is in the fall. In the fall, many are looking for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas decorations for their homes. Arts and crafts will also be bought for gifts for family, friends, and co-workers. 3. Where can I find materials? There are many places that cater to hobbyists where you can find and purchase your materials. Hobby Lobby, for example, carries a wide variety of materials for every hobby under the sun. Michael's is another large chain with arts and crafts supplies. Think about what craft you are making and search your phone books, newspapers, and the Internet for stores that cater to your specific hobby. 4. When does my hobby qualify as a business and not just a hobby? When you can show that you are making a genuine and professional effort to earn money from your hobby, you can support the claim that it is a business and not just a hobby. To do this, you must keep meticulous records of both your expenditures and your earnings, and you should do everything possible to keep your business monies separate from your personal monies. Supporting evidence that would help the Internal Revenue Service believe that you are really trying to run a business would include business cards, copies of ads or flyers that you have used to promote your business, mileage records and descriptions of the business-related events you have attended, and of course, invoices and customer information for those to whom you have made sales. IMPORTANT: You do not necessarily have to make a profit from your business, but you have to show that you are TRYING to make a profit! Don't let Uncle Sam scare you away from your dream job. When it comes to filing your taxes each year with the IRS, any accountant can help you with the records you need to keep for your tax purposes. As scary as this may sound, this can be the easiest part of turning your hobby into your dream job. There are publications, articles, forms, and much more that can aid you in dealing with your taxes. We have included some excellent links in the "Sources" section below. With the continuation of an unstable economy and loss of jobs, using your hobby as an extra income can help you in many other ways. Use your earnings for your retirement account or to help pay for college tuition...the possibilities are endless! SOURCES Anthony, Joseph. "Your Hobby Should Be A Business: Here's Why." Money Matters BCentral.com. http://www.bcentral.com/articles/anthony/225.asp Godwin, MCC, Leslie. "Should I Turn My Hobby Into A Career?" BusinessKnowHow.com. http://www.businessknowhow.com/homeoffice/hobbycareer.htm IRS Publication 535: "Deducting Business Expenses." http://www.irs.gov/publications/p535/ch01.html IRS Article: "Is It A Business Or A Hobby?" http://www.irs.gov/businesses/small/article/0,,id=99239,00.html SBInfoCanada, About.com. "I Make A Few Bucks From My Hobby. Do I Have To Declare This Income?" http://sbinfocanada.about.com/cs/taxinfo/f/hobbybiz.htm Stern, Linda. "Turning Your Hobby Into A Business." Boston.com http://www.boston.com/business/personalfinance/ articles/2003/09/24/turning_a_hobby_into_a_business/ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ © Karen Barnes, March, 2004. All rights reserved worldwide. IAHBE Writer ( http://www.moreinfo247.com/93983.939/IAHBE )and SFI Affiliate ( http://www.moreinfo247.com/93983.3101/free ). For more articles like this go to http://articles.1sta.com ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

About the Author

Karen Barnes, IAHBE Staff Writer since 2004. She is also a home based business independent contractor with Secure Future International and Better Universe, as well as a moderator at the Secure Future International Discussion Board since 2000.

2007-08-21T22:38:00.001+09:30

How To Make Your Model Railroad Look Real

by Jimmy Cox

It is important when you go to the trouble of building a model railroad that the finished product looks real. The primary way to do this is to work to a plan and consider the essential characteristics of your particular railroad. The choice you make about the layout of your track will depend not only on the available space but on the work you want your railroad to do. At first it will be enough just to have the locomotive pull cars around, pass onto a siding, switch onto a branch line. You have a toy train with a wide choice of powerful locomotives, dozens of accurate, scale-modeled cars, and so many interesting accessories and buildings that you can keep your budget unbalanced for months. Isn't that enough, you ask?

Of course it is enough to give you countless hours of pleasure. But you can increase that pleasure and extend it for years by developing your model railroad so that it has a special character, a personality of its own - a personality that is a reflection of you. A model railroad is a toy, yes, but it is much more than that, as dozens of bankers, lawyers, engineers, doctors, truck drivers, bookkeepers, salesmen, and just plain people, young and old, will testify.

You and a few hundred thousand other model railroaders have made the manufacturers of trains fit their products to your plans in demanding realism from them - track that looks like real railroad track, cars and locomotives scaled so they look like real cars and locomotives. You enjoy these things and smoke and the choo-choo sounds because they reproduce the real thing. Your pleasure will be increased if you make your layout and your handling of trains reproduce, as closely as possible, the real thing. You can do this if you have a plan.

Your plan need not be rigid and inflexible. It should be made to increase the joy of railroading, not to hamper or reduce it. A plan can save you time, work, and money.

One of the first buildings for your pike will be a station. If you are handy with tools, you may want to make your own, but if not you will buy one of the beautiful stations put out by the manufacturer of your train. You will find in your hobby store stations large and small, old-fashioned and modern. Which one will you purchase?

Knowing the character of your railroad, having a plan for its development, will help you decide what accessories you need. If your pike is going to be laid in farming country, for instance, you will not want a large city terminal, but a smaller way station.

No matter how fascinating you find the talking station that announces the destination of your train and calls, 'All aboard' you will know that it does not really fit if you have only a freight train. Instead, you will want a freight station, and if you like movement you can get one with a loading device that lifts heavy crates onto your flatcars and gondola cars.

With all of your accessories, buildings, and scenery, the same question will present itself - what fits your particular railroad as you create it? You may plan to have your system carry out all kinds of operations eventually, with both passenger and freight trains, the latter carrying many different kinds of material. This follows the practice of most real railroads and is all right, provided you have space for enough track with appropriate buildings and terrain.

However, there should be some dominant aspect of your railroad's work. This is true of most real railroads, even when they carry on many different kinds of work. The Erie, for instance, is known primarily as a freight road, the Chesapeake and Ohio as a coal-carrying road, the Long Island as a commuters' line.

There are systems whose biggest volume of business comes from carrying cattle, others factory goods, still others wood pulp or perishable foods or oil. These primary functions give a certain character to the different railroads, no matter how many other things they also do.

By considering the functions of your particular railroad you can build a railroad that looks as real as you can possible make it.

About the Author

For People Who Have Always Wanted The Perfect Model Railroad Layout But Don't Know How To Start!

Click here for FREE online Ebook

http://www.modelrailroadlayout.net/

2007-08-21T22:37:00.005+09:30

R/C cars and trucks - Beyond the toy store shelves

by Mike Eggert

From the high pitched whine of a nitro engine, to the whirring of an electric motor. All across the land, on any given weekend, you can find them bashing about everywhere from vacant lots, to parking lots. RC car and truck racing has become one of the hottest hobbies in recent memory.

You've probably seen them on the shelves of your local discount store, toy store, or electronics store. But, the real excitement this sport has to offer can only be found at a real RC hobby shop.

The RC cars, trucks, and other various RC vehicles found at the discount chains can be a great deal of fun, but if you never venture beyond these toys you might find yourself feeling a bit let down by their quality and excitement level. The difference between the "real" RC vehicles, and the chain store toys can be quite amazing. Obviously, there is a difference in cost, but as the old saying goes, "You get what you pay for."

You can choose from a wide variety of styles of RC vehicles, from mild to wild, and everything in between. From two wheel drive cars, trucks and buggies, to four wheel drive buggies, stadium trucks and monster trucks.

The electric cars and trucks, which are powered by rechargeable battery packs, are probably the best place to start your new hobby. Some of these can reach speeds in excess of 40 miles per hour! As time goes by you may find yourself craving even more speed and excitement. Look no further than the gas powered beasts that run on a blend of nitromethane and methanol for their fuel. Some of these radical rides can approach an amazing 70 miles per hour!

You can jump right in with a Ready to Run (or RTR as they are known in the sport) car or truck, or take on the challenge of a completely unassembled kit. The latter does require a bit of mechanical ability, as well as a dose of patience, but can be a very rewarding project to undertake with your son or daughter, teaching them valuable skills as well as just having a great time together.

No matter which type of RC vehicle you choose, you are sure to have a wonderful time enjoying a wholesome family activity in the great outdoors.

So stop by your local hobby shop or online retailer and see what the "real" world of RC cars and trucks has to offer. You'll be glad you did.

For even more information about this exciting sport check out http://www.rc-hq.com

About the Author

Mike Eggert is an R/C car and truck racing enthusiast, and author of the RC information website http://www.rc-hq.com

2007-08-21T22:37:00.003+09:30

Analysis of Middle East Toys Market in 2006

by David ZHENG

According to Stat., it has a sales amount of US$1,200,000,000 in Middle East toys market in 2006, and its market rises by 11.5% this year. In the area of Middle East, expenditure in toys and games is US$316 per child each year, which is twice more than expenditure of children in Europe, and is the second, listing behind North America. It is revealed by other data that people under 20 years are more than a half of the whole population in Middle East area.

In Middle East, 80% of the imported toys are from Asia, 10% from Europe and 5% from America. In these 30 countries and areas exporting toys to Middle East, the first is Taiwan in China, taking about 25% of the whole imported toys. In the next place it is Hongkong in China and Chinese mainland, their occupation is about 24% and 14% separately.

Why does it go up so quickly in Middle East toys market? Firstly, because it usually has a large family in this region, and the increase rate of population is fast. Besides, it appears more toy dealers in the extended shopping mall, and even presents professional hobby stores, sell remote control toys such as rc helicopter, rc gas boat, nitro rc car, remote control helicopter, remote control car, rc car etc. So people have more choices.

It is investigated that the imported child toys in Middle East are as many as 300 categories and 1000 kinds, and bicycles of all kinds are the most popular, holding the amount upwards of 30%. Secondly toy was toy brick. In recent years, sale of minitype electric and electronic toys in Saudi Arabia market increases rapidly, in particular children's favorite toys, i.e., video game console and remote control electronic toys (rc helicopter, rc gas boat, nitro rc car, remote control helicopter, remote control car, rc car etc.). Judging from its price, products from Asia give priority to the low and the middle, minitype toys sell at US$1 to US$13. Toys from Europe and America sell less, but mostly are top grade goods of excellent workmanship in good taste, many rag dolls' selling price is as many as one hundred dollars, and some electric car sells one thousand dollars.

2007-08-21T22:37:00.001+09:30

Fine recreation and excellent hobby - radio-controlled toys and collecting of car models

by Keff

I sat missing in front of TV box, anything new and interesting has not been shown,and old good films is already boring to look. The weekend was going all for nothing. I have recollected, that the radio-controlled car has once been bought to son, but it has quickly bored him and he has thrown it in a pantry. I have decided,as there is nothing to do,to play by a toy. I have taken a toy out of pantry. I have inspected the car - as virtual and new. It was the inexpensive electric machine. It was necessary to go to the shop for batteries. But after that I so have taken a great interest in game,that I has not noticed as has come the neighbour. - Has recollected the gold childhood? - he asked. - Let's go into the bar. We were sitting with him in the bar,spoke about any trifles,about which talked already many times, but I thought about other - what cheerful time I have had with playing by this amusing toy.

Then I have decided to look in Internet - what other toys are. I have found that except cars there are very fast monster trucks,boats,sailing boats,submarines,helicopters,airplanes and jets,army tanks and various ufo and robots. And I have solved to buy gas radio-controlled helicopter.I was ordering it thru Internet in one of firms and after few days I have gotten it.

I and my 12-year son have gone by our car out of city to one of villages with small lake. There we have filled our helicopter with applied fuel.The helicopter has easily soared up into the sky, well obeyed management and has had long flight above trees. When fuelling has terminated, we again have filled it and have then flight above lake. We have had unforgettable day full of impressions! When we have come back home joyful and happy, the neighbour has seen us and has asked: - Why you are so cheerful? My son was telling him long what the fine weekend we have had this time. The neighbour has asked to take him with us next time and promised to buy the radio-controlled hydroplan,so that it will be possible to fly up and to land on lake. Now we - I,my son and neighbour - constantly go to lake and have a good time with various radio-controlled models,which periodically we buy. I began to feel again myself young, though I have more than 40. It became my hobby.This is fine recreation on air.

My neighbour also began to have a great interest in a collecting of car models,so-called die-cast cars. These are models of cars,trucks and vehicles of past and present perfectly corresponding to originals.He has collected already the whole museum of these models. He has adapted for this purpose a wall case.These excellent models sparkle under glass.Now to every holiday friends make a present for him by these models. For this purpose he in advance mentions which of models he still doesn't have. If you wish to have an active recreation and still do not know what to do, I advise you to select this way. It is pleasantly and with benefit for health to use a free time. Those who thinks about gift to guy,these excellent models of cars are very good choice There are not so many companies which offer such products in the Internet. To know all in one place about radio-controlled models and about die-cast cars,trucks and vehicles you may read in websites below.

2007-08-21T22:35:00.004+09:30

RC Airplane Beginners - 10 Hot Tips

by Alec Eiffel

10 Hot Tips for RC Airplane Beginners

So you are interested in trying out RC airplanes as a hobby, only you don't know the first thing about them? Where to start, what to do, how to learn, where to buy, etc? Well hold on, because I am going to give you 10 Hot Tips for RC Airplane Beginners that will save you alot of time, effort AND money!

I have been flying remote control airplanes for a number of years now and have "learnt the hard way" on many occasions. Let me save you some of the hassles and give you some great tips up front!

Visit a Club Field - Best place to learn more about this hobby and to get you started is to visit your local flying field. Aeromodellers are friendly folk, always willing to help beginners. You will find someone there to teach you to fly for no cost. Some clubs even have a model plane they use to allow beginners to try out. For your closest airfield, ask at your local hobby store.
Get Yourself an RC Flight Simulator - You can buy these on-line or in store and are great to teach you some of the basics like orientation and stick inputs. Just see how many times you crash before you can take off and land on these things. If that were you at the airfield, with your shiny new trainer - it would have ended in tears! I learned to fly on my flight sim, and got my bronze wings after just 2 lessons at the airfield. Realflight G3.5 & Aerofly Pro Deluxe in my opinion are a beginner's best choice.
Gas or Electric? - RC airplanes can be powered by both, so it's up to you to decide which you would like to try out. Gas can be messy and noisy, but is relatively cheap. Electric is clean, quiet and often more expensive than Gas. Check in at the club and see who's flying what and ask some questions to help you with your decision. P.S. I much prefer gas engines.. I love the sound and smell of them.. more like the real thing!
Don't Buy Your Gear Secondhand - You could be buying someone else's problems! Buy from a reputable store - online is great. Can find some great bargains on-line and they deliver!
For your First Plane, Buy a Trainer! - A trainer is an easy to fly, easy to see in the air, very stable and CHEAP aircraft. Don't buy a sports model as your first plane, you WILL put it into the ground.
Don't Over-Power Your Model - For a trainer you would power it with a .40 - .46 engine - cheap and efficient on fuel. If you put a .60 or larger in the plane it might be a bit too much for you to handle and you're likely to crash it.
Safety First! - RC airplanes are not toys and have a VERY dangerous spinning thing up from called a propeller. Put your finger into it at idle and it WILL cut you. Make the same mistake at full throttle and you WILL lose one or more fingers, it's that simple. Only adjust engine from behind and never stand in front of or inline with a spinning prop.
Get an Instructor to Teach You - You will learn MUCH more quickly this way. Most Clubs don't allow new flyers to fly without one. A "buddy box" can be used to connect your transmitter to your instructor's which will allow him to take control of the plan if it looks like you are going to crash!
Set Up Your Flight Box Well - A flight box is used to carry all of a modellers accessories and equipment, as needed at the flying field. Do yourself a favour and equip yourself well. You want to make sure you have an electric starter, spare glow-plugs, some spare screws, fibreglass tape, CA and 5-min epoxy glues and tools. You want to make sure you have all you need to fly, and the ability to carry out field repairs to get you back in the air so that a mishap does not end your flying day.
Have Patience, Grasshopper - It will take you time to learn and to become skilled at flying RC airplanes, so be patient and don't be put of by any mishaps - it's all part of the hobby. Spend lots of time on the RC flight sim, and getting lessons from an instructor at the field. Don't try anything too fancy too soon, there'll be plenty of time for that once you have your bronze wings!

2007-08-21T22:35:00.003+09:30

Today, Toy Planes are a Hobby that is Still Enjoyed Worldwide

It wasn t long after the invention of the plane that the first toy planes started to be produced. To begin with, they were hand-crafted from wood or metal, and hand-painted to resemble the planes of the time, whether it was the original Wright Brothers plane, the first passenger planes, or Second World War fighter jets.

The toys were a hit straight away, both with children whose imaginations had been captured by real planes and adults who were amazed at the invention. It was not uncommon for a gentleman of the time to keep his toy planes in a glass display case for visitors to look at, especially if he had been in one of the wars or made his money from the aviation industry.

The First and Second World Wars were fought largely with planes, and both did a lot to increase their fame. Suddenly, the world seemed to be all about planes war was being done with them, business was being done with them. Anyone with any money, fame or power was travelling by plane. It is hardly surprising that planes took on a mixture of glamour and heroism, which boosted their popularity as a toy immensely.

By the 1950s, toy planes were an established item, and were starting to go into mass-production. These new, cheaper toys were available to more people than ever before, and their popularity has endured ever since. As plastics became available, toy planes could be mass-manufactured even more cheaply, and more imaginative designs started to take over from the ultra-realistic ones of the past.

Today, toy planes are a hobby that is still enjoyed worldwide by both kids and adults. There are many different kinds of toy planes: there are mass-manufactured plastic planes, hand-painted planes, planes that you can make from kits, remote controlled planes that really fly, and much more besides.

2007-08-21T22:35:00.001+09:30

Scale Model Train Layouts Developing Your First One

To develop your model train layout there are four major steps to take before you begin construction:

1: Select the size of your model train, that is the scale or gauge. Scales range from micro-sized Z scale for tiny layouts to giant G-scale used mostly for outdoor garden layouts.

Visit hobby shops or model train websites and see the various scales available. Staff at a hobby shop will usually be happy to point out the advantages and/or disadvantages of each scale. Your decision about scale/size will be partly based on the space available for your layout. The most popular scales are O scale which is 1/48th actual size and the smaller HO scale which is 1/87th actual size. As a result of being the two most popular scales these have the greatest variety of locomotives, cars and accessories available.

2: Learn about layouts for the scale you have chosen by reading magazines such as O Gauge Railroading and Classic Toy Trains (these two are for O scale). Model Railroading provides detailed information about HO and N scale. All are full of information - all the good train hobby stores carry them or you can pick them up at places like Barnes & Noble or Amazon.

Also visit websites related to your scale choice Google the term "model train layouts" for a great listing of sites with information about model train layouts.

Re-visit hobby shops you visited for information when deciding on the scale of your model train set and ask questions about layout. The good ones can provide helpful advice and they sell how-to books on wiring, scenery, detailing and other subjects.

3: You then need to decide on how you start. Do you want to start with a little layout that can later be extended? Do you want to set up a permanent layout right from the start? Do you want to develop a 'theme' layout say a layout depicting California logging railroads in the 1920s? The major decisions are to determine your objective and set the size parameters for your layout. Don't forget that the size parameters for your layout will be determined largely by the space you have available a basement? the corner of a lounge room? portion of your garage? etc.

4: Begin making sketches and drawings on plain paper it's easier to make changes to your drawing than to have to physically pry up a section of track that 'went wrong'. Refer back to magazines and websites during this planning stage just to see what others have done. Many magazines and websites will have photos of layouts appropriate to the scale you have chosen. There are even some computer programs which can help you with designing your layout - look for ads in model train magazines.

2007-08-21T22:34:00.003+09:30

Hobby Stores Are An Amazing Treasure Trove

With the name hobby store you know you are going to find a wide variety of arts and craft items for you to work with. However you may be pleasantly surprised at some of the items you will find in hobby stores. One of the hottest crazes out there is scrapbooking and you will find plenty of great items to create wonderful albums in any hobby store. You will also know that all of the items you purchase are acid free and designed to be used for such projects.

Building model cars, airplanes, and even trains is a popular hobby for people of all ages. You will find models of these designs at different levels of difficulty in a hobby store. You will also find a great supply of decals, paints, tires, and even display cases so you can customize your models.

Decorative wreaths can cost you quite a bit to buy but you can make them very inexpensively when you buy the wreath, fake flowers, and other items you wish to display on it at a hobby store. It is quite simple to make your own decorative wreaths and you can choose the size and colors that will go well in your home.

Planning for a wedding takes plenty of time and creativity but you will find many ideas of decorating tables at the reception when you visit your local hobby store. Most of them also carry wedding cake toppers, streamers, flowers, and other items you need to make your wedding complete.

Even if it is a long time until the major holidays roll around again your hobby store will have a great supply of different items geared towards that holiday. This is because many people work all year long to make homemade gifts for the holidays. Having those materials available all year long means there is no stress trying to get them all completed on time.

Hobby stores have the best selection of yarn for knitting and materials for sewing that you will find anywhere. They also have excellent prices so you can get what you are looking for at a great price. You can make baby blankets, booties, curtains, quilts, and more with the various yarns and materials found in a hobby store.

If you have an interest in any hobby but you do not know where to start with it consider buying a step by step book on the concept at the hobby store. Look for one that is targeted towards beginners. Many hobby stores also offer free classes on a variety of crafts including candy and cake decorating, scrapbooking, and holiday decorations. Your local hobby store will likely have a posted schedule with the information.

2007-08-21T22:34:00.001+09:30

Your guide to RC cars

by Robert Rogfend

I still remember the day when I broke my first RC car that was presented to me on my 5th birthday when the entire family was in vacation in Queensland! The same day, we went to a small local RC cars shop near by and as I entered I found myself surrounded with rc cars and rc trucks!! Soon, I set my eyes on a Tamiya Ford Ranger XLT. I bought that one and yes....i also laid my hands greedily on a rc truck!

Well, that was all around 25 years ago, but my passion is still as young.

Electric rc cars make use of a 7.2 volt battery and two electric motors. The rc car can speed up to 25 miles per hour and of course, this is the perfect start for the beginner. The best part of these electric rc cars is that you can redesign the cars to be more faster, attach ball bearings, boost the system with high power batteries and everything thing else you ever wanted to experiment with. With all these modifications, you can speed up your car to 40 miles per hour!

Similarly, the remote control car, which enables you to operate the car from a distance. It consists of a remote control unit, a battery, and a charger. Many remote control cars make use of a 540 size electric motors, powered by 4 or 7 cell batteries. Pan chassis with direct drive transmission are the norm for the remote control cars. Foam tires are used and lightweight Lexan bodies are used.

The Nitro RC cars are the second most popular cars. The word nitro refers to the nitrogen that is a major part of the fuel which is used to run the nitro rc cars. The energy that is given by the fuel combustion allows the nitro rc cars to catch up a speed of 80 miles per hour! These are special fuel made for nitro rc cars, regular gasoline will NOT work! Nitro rc cars are less in weight and have a better power to weight ratio. You can easily modify the engine with a Mabuchi motor to give a speed of 90 miles per hour!

These nitro or gas powered rc cars give that much needed reality into the machine and is spcailly designed for people who are in search of something different from electric cars. The most popular gas powered rc cars today are the cheap and fast gas rc car , nitro touring cars, the BIG monster nitro rc trucks!

These gas powered remote controlled cars and similar to electric touring cars, but with more power and 2-speed transmission. At 190mm, these cars are slightly narrower and smaller than the 200mm models. You can also search for hundreds of rc car from online rc hobby shops.

About the Author

Randell Rogfend is a father of three children who has had a long and fulfilling writing career. His passion is writing and he has contributed to countless newspapers, magazines and books. www.rccar.ixvv.com/Gasrccar/ The following site is his collection of articles about his latest interest: www.rccar.ixvv.com

2007-08-21T22:33:00.001+09:30

Loving Your Hobbies More

by Ray La Foy

With the advent of technology that makes almost every chore less time consuming, more and more time may now be devoted to enjoying your hobbies. More people can now take on one or several recreational activities like photography, stamp collection, embroidery, handicrafts, etc.

To provide more resources in the growing interest in having fun with hobbies, the web world has yet gave birth to a website that deals with anything about hobbies: hobbiesataglance.com.

This everything about hobbies website has clickable sections regarding hobby supplies, hobby lobby, tower hobbies, collectibles and model trains. It is an online resource center promising hobbie enjoyment, satisfying your hobby needs and assistance in finding hobbies that suit you.

On its hobbies updates and information part, it presents tips on how to find a perfect hobby or hobbies. For those looking for supplies, retailers or suppliers of hobbies materials are also found in this section of the site. If one is looking to buy some hand-made crafts or planning to grow some dough, many for-sale crafts and income-producing hobbies also shared the limelight in this website's hobbies updates and information segment. On one's prime years, a wide selection of suitable hobbies for those who already retired is also availed in this portion. Links, directories and forums that discuss and lead to other several crafts or activities that can be done leisurely are also provided here.

This online hobbies spot also unveils a plethora of hobbies supplies resources. Most of the links found here lead to suppliers of excellent materials, indigenous and synthetic, that make the dream hobbies of a lot of people come true. Painting materials, flowers and plants resources, jewelry making supplies and picture framing materials are all available here. Other more unique hobbies like enjoying the nature through non-conventional methods are also supported in this section of the site through providing stuff like portable microscopes. For those more inclined to mechanical or technical hobbies, web pages and other sites on modeling supplies and aircraft materials can also be accessed on this portion of hobbiesataglance.com.

Hobby lobby is another clickable link of this website leads to innumerable stores and shops and their locations with hobbies how-to's, supplies, workshops and seminars. Craft store catalogs, online coupons and aircraft models may also be seen on this page of updates regarding hobbies. Creative centers, hobby lobby founder, workers and investors are also given ample chance to shine on this fragment of the site. Hobby lobby stores in various States are here too for those looking for their hobby shop within their vicinity.

Those who are into tower hobbies are even given a special spot or link on this hobbies website. Building wireless towers that provide Internet access to a massive number of net users is one major feat. Links on other hobbies sites that deal with tower building, tower materials, and other tower crafts are also placed in this page of the site.

Collectibles like antiques, figurines, stamps, novelty items and other collection-worthy items may also be found here. Resources on where they can be found or bought are piled on this site. Model trains also found their way on one of the links of this all about hobbies web site.

So if you're just one of those can't-live-without-my-hobby kind of person, this website is made totally for you.

2007-08-21T22:31:00.000+09:30

Direct Mail Marketing and Direct Mail for Hobby Shops

Local Hobby Shops can do very well as a small business but to do a good business they need a strong customer base. How can a small hobby shop get a customer base and then rely on word-of-mouth advertising to propel future customers thru referrals networks? Well, perhaps a robust yet inexpensive marketing and advertising program might do the trick. Let me explain; you see, Direct Mail Marketing and Direct Mail for Hobby Shops could be the answer.

Direct-mail marketing packages should be sent out to all the people and households within a 15-mile radius of the hobby shop. It also makes sense to send out the direct-mail marketing packages at least once per quarter. Direct Mail Marketing and Direct Mail for Hobby Shops works because it is efficient and will help you develop a good baseline of customers. Be sure not to over saturate, as that will lower you average return on your advertising investment.

Running a small business is not easy and you must watch your costs that you spend on marketing and advertising. With the big box stores competing for your customers a hobby shop must concentrate on its core market. You need to get these people into your store to look around and see what is there and get them thinking and then watch them turn into buyers. Please consider all this in 2006.