Plusmodel is located in the Czech Republic and when you visit the company website you are given the option of an English language version. The links above go to that option.

To get some idea as to what products are offered by plusmodel, select the Catalogue option on the home page. The Catalogue lists hundreds of items that can be used as stand-alone models or items, such as the Ladder being reviewed, to enhance a model. My modeling experience with plusmodel products includes only a dozen or so of the aftermarket-type items, and I have been pleased with each of those items.

The author of this tome, Mario Eens, is well known to those on the international modeling scene as an award winner at European model shows, together with being a regular contributor to the excellent French modeling magazine, Steelmasters. The book itself consists of a master class in building, painting and finishing scale models, divided into five chapters, and spanning 128 pages measuring 8” x 10”.

UMM USA (Unique Master Models) produces unique, out-of-the-mainstream tools and supplies, as well as unusual and exciting kits. Each time I go to the IPMS Nationals, the UMM booth is a must-stop venture – there is always something new and interesting, and the busy owner always takes the time to walk you through what he has for sale, and how it works.

This time around we have a photoetch bending set that comes with a graduating roller as well as two bending trays. If you haven’t added this handy and versatile tool to your modeling bench, you might want to give it a try. Some roller sets will have you keep track of a bunch of differently-sized wood or metal rods that you use to press and bend PE in a tray. The beauty of using a tool like this to do the same thing is the simplicity of using a single roller for all widths, all in one tool. The hardened aluminum tool can be used for rolling and bending brass, copper and aluminum sheets.