scratchbuildaten

scratchbuildaten is a term that emerged within hobbyist communities, particularly those focused on miniature wargaming and model making. It refers to the practice of creating models or components for gaming or display entirely from raw materials, rather than assembling them from pre-made kits or purchasing commercially available miniatures. This can involve using materials like plasticard, styrene rods, putty, wire, and salvaged components from other kits.

The term itself is a portmanteau, combining "scratch" to signify building from the ground up, and "build" to describe the act of construction. The addition of "aten" is less clear in its origin but is widely understood within the community as a suffix or identifier for this specific type of modeling. It implies a dedication to the craft and a certain level of skill and patience.

Scratchbuilding allows for a high degree of customization and uniqueness in models. Hobbyists may choose to scratchbuild to create figures or vehicles that are not available commercially, to adapt existing models to a specific aesthetic or setting, or simply for the challenge and satisfaction of creating something entirely from their own imagination and effort. It often requires a good understanding of anatomy, engineering principles, and material properties, depending on the complexity of the project. The process can be time-consuming but rewarding, leading to highly personalized and often impressive creations.