Solving the Problems...
This month, a few of our build reviews feature kits that did not simply 'fall together'. In this age of what are, probably the easiest to assemble kits we've ever seen, from the likes of Tamiya and Hasegawa, some modellers have come to expect very easy to assemble kits that require minimum clean up and virtually no filling. While many modellers see these things as a chore and are not interested in scratching replacements for soft detailed parts, I can't help but think they are missing out. Problem solving, upgrading and the perfectionism that we practice in filling and making good are very rewarding parts of the hobby, and when the only option for that sought-after project is a short run kit, it's just another way to enjoy building a model. Don't get me wrong, I like a quick build as much as the next modeller, but variety is the spice of life, and alternating between quick builds and (ahem) 'projects' brings plenty of variety and a chance to stretch the grey matter now and then. Speaking of which, I love a bit of scratchbuilding, so if you are a scratchbuilder and you are interested in writing for SAM, please do drop me a line.

Showing Up...
This month we bring back the Show Calendar to SAM. For me, shows are a key part of the hobby. They provide the essential social element in our hobby, where we can meet up with friends, show and appreciate models and get inspiration for our own work. As an international magazine, we have listed events around the world, and if you have a show, you'd like us to add to the calendar, please do get in touch.
While it's great to have so many shows, it can lead to the occasional clash, and I was sad to see a long-standing show cancelled for 2020 over problems with clashing dates. There must be a solution, and I hope it is found to keep our huge variety of shows well supported and attended. Perhaps co-ordination is needed to ensure events in the same locale are a few months apart.