One of the projects I want to do is design small wood 3d models.
Recently, I acquired these models [1] which actually have movable parts.
It would be very cool to create such movable wooden models for these spacecrafts. They have a number of parts like solar panels or cameras that move around.
I bought/got gifted a couple of these sets, just a warning for anyone looking to buy:
The quality varies a lot piece to piece. Forget Lego-like perfect snap and alignment, you will be sanding basically everything to make it fit. The movement of the built mechanism is not smooth, and gets worse as you play with it due to rubbing. Seams and connections are quite visible on every surface which can detract from the look of the model if you want to display it.
Not saying these are bad, just be prepared what you are buying.
You are correct. But the construction cost of these is dirt cheap. I have bought similar non-movable models from Chinese companies for about 2 dollars. These ones are priced at 10-20 times as much but the wood and cutting quality is more like twice as good.
Though I wonder whether one can reduce parts wear somewhat by painting the wood with something.
I tried waxing (just rub with plain old candle) the sliding surfaces, it helped a bit but didn't last long. However the wax helps during assembly, putting tight joints together.
Also have to mention another big collection of these types of models which you can download and print for free at https://axmpaperspacescalemodels.com/.
They've been on my "one day" list for a while now...
Recently, I acquired these models [1] which actually have movable parts.
It would be very cool to create such movable wooden models for these spacecrafts. They have a number of parts like solar panels or cameras that move around.
[1] https://ugearsmodels.com/