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. Many current members have been in the club for over 20 years.

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 $15.

We meet once a month in the Arlington Heights Public Library, January through November, and have an annual Holiday Party in December in place of a regular meeting.

Most meetings have a theme to encourage members to bring (or build) models that relate to that theme, though any model is always welcome. We ask each member to 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 other members may not be aware of or know how to do.

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 are interested in.