In the education field, we are often asked (during job interviews, for instance) what our personal philosophy of education is.  What a broad, general and difficult to understand question!  And yet educators are expected to be continually thinking about our personal philosophies, all the while revising them based on current information, research and experiences. 

I find I have carried the practice of developing a personal philosophy to the other parts of my life, as well.  Since I began customizing, I've developed a set of tenets and rules which guide me while I work, and which keep me from making the same mistakes more than once.

This is my customizing philosophy.

 

For more on customizing philosophy and ethics, see:

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  • Customizing is a personal thing, so the only person who need be happy with the end result is you.
  • Customizing is a process, not an event.  Don’t expect a finished product immediately; instead, create a rough draft, and then continue revising and editing until you reach your desired goal.
  • Always use reference art.  You’ll be glad you did.
  • Use the right tool for the job.  Don’t try to paint a thin line with a fat brush.
  • Several thin coats of paint look better than one thick coat.
  • Primer usually helps paint stick better and cover more evenly.
  • Paint light colors over an even lighter primer.
  • Sanding helps paint to stick, even on joints.
  • Never be afraid to ask questions.
  • Never be afraid to try something different.
  • Never be afraid to admit that your work sucks, chuck it all, and then redo it.
  • Sometimes customizing has it’s own slow pace.  If you rush some things, such as drying or curing time, you’ll likely notice a difference in the end.
  • Use a very sharp hobby knife.  Not only will it cut more easily, but it will be less likely to slip and cause accidents.
  • Be extremely careful with that sharp hobby knife.  Not everyone has a roommate with first-aid training.
  • Always keep your eyes open for a new tool or resource for your customizing arsenal.
  • When possible, use the path of least resistance; however, also try to know when to go the extra mile.  Ultimately, it's up to you to know the difference.
TotalCustomWorld V.3.0 is owned and maintained by Davy Stone.