I started my journey as a matchstick model maker about 3 years ago, drawing on my skills as a mechanical engineer. I suppose I got the bug as a child making Meccano sets and Airfix models. That’s also probably to blame for me getting into engineering in the first place.
I suppose I was inspired to start miniature matchstick model making thanks to the long, cold and boring winter evenings. I wanted to do something, make something, anything really. My wife and I are not big fans of TV and so it progressed from there.
Then I saw this guy by accident on the internet, and I was in awe at the skill and determination he must have applied to make his magnificent matchstick models, which were huge by comparison to mine. They were probably 6 feet long and 4ft high, that’s huge by any standard, and I think close to several hundred thousand matchsticks.
As a self-taught model maker, my skills have improved as has my techniques over time. Each model has also probably been more challenging than the previous one. The Halloween House (top left) has been the ultimate challenge so far.
I work only with matchsticks; lots of matchsticks. Matchsticks are used for absolutely everything; except for the substructure which is card. We have no lasers, no 3D printers or any fangled equipment. Just a scalpel or two, and of course, the dependable Stanley knife.
The scalpel is my most trusty tool, and of course PVA adhesive – plus a good eye and a very steady hand indeed!
I pride myself on making all the parts of my miniature models myself, with no added parts or frills from any other sources or suppliers. We are 100% matchsticks home made.
I spend many hundreds of hours making the few models I have completed so far.
Each one is made entirely from matchsticks, including all the small artifacts such as roof tiles, decking, fences, chairs, dogs, birds, bats, headstones, skulls, paving stones, Lights, Windows, Doors, hinges, trees, flowers, and even grass and flowers.
So, onwards and upwards, though not aiming for +100,000 matchsticks. Not just yet.
Remember, this is a winter project only. So watch this space for next winters project.
I hope you like what I have made so far.
Cheers, Nigel
In chronological order:
1. Mobilvetta Motorhome - Complete Jan 2023
2. Swiss Chalet - Complete Jan 2024
3. Street House - Complete Dec 2025
4. Book Case, complete with books - Complete Jan 2026
5. Halloween House - an epic - Complete Jan 2026
Apologies, they are very difficult to photograph well, and so the pictures are a tad below par.
I hope you still like them though 😊
Cheers, Nigel