Join

The McKinstry chapter of IPMS has been active for over 50 years; in fact, McKinstry was the first chartered local chapter of IPMS in the Chicago area. Several current members have been in the club for 20 years or more.

We always welcome new members who share our interest in scale modeling. While the focus of IPMS has historically been on building boxed plastic model kits, anyone who enjoys building models in any scale, of any subject, and with any materials will find a receptive audience and a place to find new friends with whom you can share your hobby.

The best way to find out more about McKinstry would be to just attend a meeting or two. You’d be welcome to attend as a guest as often as you’d like, and if you choose to join, annual dues are just $20.

We meet once a month in the banquet room of the Continental Restaurant in Buffalo Grove (see map at right for location details).

Each meeting includes a “Builders’ Showcase”, where members can bring one or more of their models and present them to the others in attendance. Also, our meetings have themes to encourage members to build (or bring) models that relate to that theme. But any model is always welcome, whether it relates to one of the monthly themes or not. We ask each member to give a brief summary of their model(s) – scale, manufacturer, paint, decals, aftermarket details, etc. – as well as historical information about the subject of the model, where appropriate.

We often have a program for the evening, as well, where a member or a guest will demonstrate a tool or technique for members and guests, to suggest ways modelers can expand their skills or learn something new about historic subjects.

On this website you can find additional information about upcoming meetings, past meetings, newsletters, kit reviews from members, officers, club history, etc. Hopefully, that will give you a better idea what kinds of activities the club and its members do.