IPMS/Fresno Scale Modelers is a local chapter of IPMS/USA, (International Plastic Modelers Society/United States of America) and has been in existence since March 15 1970. An elected board of volunteer officers provides direction for the local chapter, using guidelines provided by the National organization, IPMS/USA. Individuals may choose to join either the local and/or National organizations. National Membership costs $25.00 for seniors $12.00 for juniors per year. Follow the link for more information.

     The cost of local membership to the IPMS/Fresno Scale Modelers is $14.00 per year for seniors (18 & older). We also have a husband and wife membership for $20.00.and $10.00 for juniors(17 & younger). This membership entitles you to a membership card, eligible to be on staff (when attending 80% or more staff & general meetings), voting privileges, a monthly newsletter, access to the members only area of the web site and discount privileges at participating vendors.

     We also have a Member At Large/internet - paid (MALIP) membership for those outside the immediate area of Fresno and are unable to attend our normal general meetings. Dues are $7.00 a year. This membership entitles you to a membership card, monthly newsletter, access to the members only area of the website and discount privileges at participating vendors. If your interested e-mail us.

     Our monthly meetings accomplish one or all of the following. Improving modeling techniques through program workshops focusing on such areas as seams, parts alignment, decals, detailing, painting, and other areas pertaining to the actual process of what helps you produce a realistic miniature model.

     The medium is generally plastic, but scale modeling is what you make of it. We believe that the techniques of modeling are what brings modelers together. Whether it is in metal, resin, wood or plastic.

     The subject matters such as cars, ships, miniature figures, aircraft, science fiction, armor and trains shows the scope of your hobby. Sharing information is an important ingredient in our monthly get together. One recurring theme is Show & Tell. This helps modelers express problem areas, share hints and tips and demonstrate stages of construction they have accomplished.

     At monthly meetings we also share the happenings of the model industry or what is on the horizon for new kits, materials, and accessories as information becomes available. Door prize drawings, auctions, or just free handouts are provided to the chapter and will be available on a rotational basis.

     Photographing your models, group photo sessions, and guest speakers will also be available as often as possible. Fresno Scale Modelers holds trading sessions for kits, spare parts and the like annually. A research library is available through the group as a whole. Are you missing a part to that favorite model? Well, an organized group can help you find a replacement part, or form a new part.

     Extra curricular happenings include traveling to air shows, participation in other chapter events, contests, visiting hobby shops in other cities, or displaying our models at malls and other public functions.

     In-house contests are provided for members to compete against a judging standard with awards presented the following month.

     Finally, we offer two family oriented events each year, a Christmas pot luck party and a summer picnic. We hope this gives you an idea of what can be in store for you as a member of IPMS/Fresno Scale Modelers. If you would like to stop by an sit in on a meeting or just visit click the "How to Find Us" link to the left.  Or contact us by clicking Contact.