A Scale Modeler Who Became a Master Designer

Interview with Alexandre Blech

1/48 B-26 Marauder opened engines for ICM designed by Alexandre

Alexandre Blech is a member of the Judge Panel at the Aladdin Model Design Competition, he's also the founder of Essential Details, a website selling the finest detail resin sets on the market. Here is our interview with the master designer.

Hi Alexandre! Thank you for accepting our invitation for the interview. At what age did you start scale modeling?

Hello everyone,

I started scale modeling around the age of 9 with an Italeri F-21 Lion in 1/72 scale, a gift from my father. I kept at it until my teenage years, but between school, friends, and girls, I eventually put the hobby aside. I picked it back up when I moved into my own apartment at 25. While waiting to get connected to the internet, I opened a kit... and haven't stopped since 😊

When and how did you get into 3D design and 3D printing?

I worked as a mechanical draftsman, so I've always had a solid foundation in technical drawing, which came in handy when scratch-building parts for my models.

The arrival of 3D printers was the realization of a dream: they allow for precise reproduction of parts, perfect geometries, and a level of detail that can surpass traditional scratch-building.

I bought my first machine in 2023, and since then... I've been spending more time designing than building models!

I use Fusion 360 for my CAD designs, I learned from YouTube videos and creator friends. I learned to find the right tools to achive my design objectives and adapt to the excellent performances of the software.

How did you get the idea of starting Essential Details?

At first, I was designing parts for my own use. I had spent a lot of time creating an open engine for a 1/72 B-26 Marauder. At the Scale Model Challenge competition in Eindhoven, the feedback was very positive — and I was awarded a gold medal in the Master category.

Throughout the weekend, several people asked if my parts were available for purchase. That's when the idea started to take shape: to offer my creations to a wider audience through a business. Essential Details was born in the spring of 2025.

What is your vision for Essential Details?

To offer finely detailed parts, as accurate as possible, that focus on what matters and are easy to install. I keep in mind all the struggles I've faced throughout my modeling journey, and I do my best to ensure that those who trust Essential Details have a great experience with our products.

Visit Essential Details