Ditchit,

I have built a couple of models from plans and am part way through two more. My reasoning is the additional choice of subject this allows where kits simply do not exist.

Don't worry at this stage about power tools like band saws, I do not have one (more on grounds of having nowhere to put it rather than cost) and have not felt it a problem.

I do have a Dremel type mini drill, very useful.

When you are cutting shapes out of wood, cut slightly oversize and sand back to your line, I find it easier to be more accurate that way, (one slip of the knife and it's all over, you can' add material back to an undersized component!).

For sanding etc take a look at 'Permagrit' tools they make several sanding blocks and profiled files, these are the most useful items in my tool box and are in use during every building session, not cheap but well worth it in the long run. They do have a website, do a search on 'Permagrit'.

Hope this helps.

Simon.