Definition of a Scratch Build?

[paul]

I thought that a Scratch Build was cutting your own parts from an original plan.
Been told otherwise.
"you must design the plan yourself or build from a 3 view"

So, the Spitfire I'm building with scrap balsa with a designed plan is a 1/2 Scratch Build?

The question is.
What is the true definition of a Scratch Build?

Paul

[Phugoid]

Just because you are working from another's plan doesn't mean it's not a scratch build. For me it's pretty well any build that is not a kit. Ie taking raw balsa and a plan (yours or anyone else's) and ending up with a model. Taking a three view to a finished model isn't everyone's cup of tea. I spend all day pouring over designs and engineering drawings, far too much to start up again when I get home!

Like so many things some folks get snobbish about such things, but then again it you could say it would only be a true scratch build if they went and chopped the tree down too, or made the prop instead if using a plastic one...... ie how far do you go?....

Andrew

[Steve Blanchard]

Well said Andrew. I have done both, scratch built from existing plans and built from plans I have drawn. They are both scratch builds in my eyes.

[ccc1970]

ive always been under the impression "scratch built" is not only cutting your own parts but designing the plans as well.. We have always called it "built from plans" when you cutting out parts from someone elses plans...

[Phugoid]

Lets face it, working to your own plans or not, it's still proper modelling, not RTF, or ARTF!

Andrew

[Wildpig]

"Proper modeling". I'll go with that definition.

[Bill Gaylord]

I'll go with Andrew's comments also.
One thing worth pointing out is that Guillows kits are what got me started in what I primarily do now, which is scratch building from 3-views. Take a 3-view with formers, draw in the keels and work out the stringer locations and you basically have a Guillows design. It amazes me how many talented modelers can perform beautiful kit builds, but won't take the extra step to fill in the few blanks on a good 3-view. I've seen countless threads where folks are searching for plans for a subject that they really want to build. They can easily develop a good plan that is practical for their intended goals from 3-views, but do not build as they cannot find a good plan.

[Mitch]

HeyGuys...

I dont care if you call my latest build (see Albatros Werks) a scatch build or not I am having fun. I think it would be much easier if Guillows made the kit, but, as with all there models they give you all the templetes. I am calling my model a scratch build...from Guillows plans.

I have made a few changes is some of my Guillow builds and find one must be careful, when you change something... it may affect something else...

But its all balsa wood and you either sand it away, or add another piece. My challenge is also to keep things light.

I may not fly every model, but at the start every build is intended to fly!

The only manufactered parts I will use are the prop and wheels. Mitch