Editing Scale model (section)

==Methods==
[[File:震電（実物大模型）.jpg|thumb|This full scale (1:1) model of a [[Kyushu J7W Shinden]] was built by [[Toho Studios]] for use in the 2023 film ''[[Godzilla Minus One]]''.]]
{{Main|Model building}}
Models are built to [[Scale (ratio)|scale]], defined as the ratio of any linear dimension of the model to the equivalent dimension on the full-size subject (called the "prototype"), expressed either as a ratio with a colon (ex. 1:8 scale), or as a fraction with a slash (1/8 scale). This designates that 1 length unit on the model represents 8 such units on the prototype. In English-speaking countries, the scale is sometimes expressed as the number of [[Foot (unit)|feet]] on the prototype corresponding to one [[inch]] on the model, e.g. 1:48 scale = "1 inch to 4 feet", 1:96 = "1 inch to 8 feet", etc.

Models are obtained by three different means: [[plastic model|kit assembly]], [[scratch building]], and collecting pre-assembled models. Scratch building is the only option available to structural engineers, and among hobbyists requires the highest level of skill, craftsmanship, and time; scratch builders tend to be the most concerned with accuracy and detail.{{Citation needed|date=January 2014}} Kit assembly is done either "out of the box", or with modifications (known as "[[kitbashing]]"). Many kit manufacturers, for various reasons leave something to be desired in terms of accuracy, but using the kit parts as a baseline and adding after-market conversion kits, alternative decal sets, and some scratch building can correct this without the master craftsmanship or time expenditure required by scratch building.