Yeah digitally, I use a set of archaic programs: Truespace 3.2, Irfranview, 3dexploration 1.883, and various others...
I'm a member of many game forums (where I first found out and got into modding).
Over time I wanted to try to create something myself but then found out I have no talent or skill for it.
Seriously, 3d programs are worse than greek to me!
Aside from straight conversions I started doing in like 2003, around 2005 I experimented with a program called DOGA.
DOGA is like a part library and you just put the pieces together. As a child I use to have a toy set called a "droid factory" and by assembling different parts you could make permutations of droids.
Same thing... Like a Mr Potato head, but for spaceships!
Then I figured if I could learn how to take just parts that inspired me off other models I could "kit-bash" my own just like DOGA.
I just do this for my own enjoyment.
Occasionally, people like what I come up with.
Some of my latest bashes:
Alien fighters 2 flavors
StarWars parts that unintentionally turned out very StarFox-like
My interpretation of SDF-3 SC-style, less boxy, more character...
KA Style YAMATO, from SFC3 parts, still a WIP
Lastly,
EDF Avenger with EDF Andromeda above it (for scale), unarmed still WIP...