In simple terms, it is using paper to make anything the mind can image. There are several way this is done. Some people scratch build models, others hand drawn them and even more use 3d and CAD programs to design their models. The models can then be distributed in digital or printed form for others to enjoy.

Today, there are models of cars, planes, trains, ships, armor, spacecraft, people, animals, birds, rockets, satellites, and many more subjects available. Some are based on real objects, some on fictional objects and some on cartoons. Whatever your taste is, you can find a paper model of the subject. One of the reasons for the growth of papermodels is the internet. With models freely available and e-stores selling digital and printed kits worldwide, there are thousands of subjects.

One of the benefits of papermodels is the hobbyist is actually involved in making the model. If building an aircraft of any type, the builder will need to form the wings into the proper airfoil. If building a car, the graceful curves of the fenders and the sides of the vehicle will need to be formed. And ship builders will learn how the real life ship was built as they build the internal structure of the ship and then place the planking along the sides. It is a form of modeling where the hobbyist is actually involved with building the object and not just putting it together.

Making a papermodel, or as others call them, card models, requires a steady hand, white glue, and time. You'll also need a sharp knife and a straight-edge ruler. Most people use a hobby knife, such as an Xacto Knife, or similar. Once you have found the model you want to build and have gathered your tools, the first step is to cut out the pieces. Some parts of the model may require scoring. Scoring is drawing a line with a blunt tip instrument (you don't want to cut along a scoring line, just make an indentation) along an area making the part easier to fold. When all the parts have been cut out and scored, they are ready for assembly. Some kits included detailed directions on how to build the model, other provide a diagram showing where each assembled part is placed. Other designers provide direction somewhere between the two mentioned.

As for the quality of the models available, some are extremely detailed and have more than a 1,000 parts. Some aren't as detailed but provide detail printing giving the illusion of detail. Most papermodelers begin on simple models. This helps them learn the basics of building paper models. From there they can stay with the simple designs or move up to more and increasing difficult models.

In 2003, Thaipaperworks began with its first model, a freely available S-3 Viking. Since that first model, additional aircraft kits have been released, including a 1/48 scale Lockheed C-130 Hercules. There are also models of seldom seen aircraft, along with a number of armored vehicles. All designed to be "Easy but Beautiful" As always, the founder of the company has dedicated himself to producing some of the most beautiful and easiest models to build. Once a Thaipaperwork model has been completed, the builder can point proudly to the finished model and say, "I built that!"

Thaipaperworks...making papermodeling easy, but beautiful.