Welcome to IPMS Richmond!
Since our charter 34 years ago, our membership has grown to over 50 people in the greater Richmond area. Our member interests cover all aspects of scale modeling. Our goal is to provide a relaxed atmosphere for learning and sharing the hobby. Each month, our meetings feature open discussions on tips and techniques related to model building, whether it be civilian or military subjects. Our demonstrations cover many topics, such as weathering armor, decaling NASCAR models, making display bases, and painting aircraft canopies. A vital part of each meeting is the chance to show off our builds and describe our experience to the members. No matter if your modeling experience is limited or extensive, you are welcome to visit with us.
Activities:
IPMS Richmond holds several special events each year. Here are just a few:
- Monthly meetings and raffles.
- Quarterly chapter model contest with 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place ribbons awarded in several major categories (Armor, Aircraft, Figures, Cars, Ships, Space and Sci-Fi, and Juniors). There is also a Best of Show ribbon awarded to the most popular model.
- December Holiday pot luck dinner.
- Annual Model Contest and Show (the Old Dominion Open).
- Staffing chapter model displays at the Virginia Aviation Museum and the National D-Day Memorial.
IPMS, A Worldwide Organization of Modelers:
The International Plastic Modelers Society (IPMS) was founded by Jim Sage, of Dallas, Texas, in 1963. There are now IPMS branches all over the world. Many of the local chapters and regions sponsor model shows and contests every year. One does not need to be a member to visit the shows or attend the local chapter meetings. But if you do become a member of IPMS/USA you will receive the outstanding model magazine "The Journal" six times a year. This publication has something for all interests, including aircraft, armor, automotive, ships, and figures. Also useful are the listings of IPMS model contest and swap meets, hints and tips, and reviews. Membership also qualifies you to participate in IPMS/USA sanctioned regional contests, as well as the IPMS/USA National Convention, held each summer. You also gain access to the IPMS Member's Forum, on the IPMS/USA website. Here a wide variety of modeling topics are discussed, and real-time access to other modelers answer your questions. In addition, many hobby shops around the country offer discounts to IPMS/USA members.