Ethan Clarke
Building plastic model kits is a rewarding hobby that has become increasingly popular. Plastic model kits are replicas of various subjects, ranging from military aircraft, ships, and tanks to science fiction models. Building a plastic model kit can be daunting, especially for beginners. The process typically involves using a snap-together kit or assembling the model using plastic glue. It is important to choose the right kit for your skill level and to have the necessary tools, such as a hobby knife and sprue cutters. Building a plastic model kit requires patience and attention to detail, but it can be a fun and therapeutic activity that results in a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of model kit | Snap-together or glue-together |
| Difficulty | Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced |
| Tools required | Hobby knife, sprue cutters/nippers |
| Additional supplies | Paints, glue |
| Tips | Sand down leftover sprue material, be patient and gentle while assembling |
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What You'll Learn
- Choosing a kit: Pick a kit that matches your skill level and interests
- Tools: You'll need a hobby knife and sprue cutters
- Assembly: Follow instructions, be patient, and gentle
- Painting: Consider colours and practice on cheaper models first
- Troubleshooting: Be prepared to fix common issues, like a broken railgun
Choosing a kit: Pick a kit that matches your skill level and interests
Choosing the right plastic model kit is the most vital step when starting your modelling journey. The variety of kits, tools and techniques can be overwhelming, so it's important to select a kit that matches your skill level and interests.
Firstly, consider the subject matter. Popular types of models include aeroplanes, tanks, ships, cars, motorcycles, and figures. There are also kits depicting subjects from movies and TV series, such as Star Wars and Star Trek. If you're a beginner, it's best to pick a kit that aligns with your interests to maintain motivation throughout the building process.
Secondly, evaluate the size of the completed model, the level of difficulty, the time you can dedicate, and your budget. Generally, as models get bigger, they become more intricate and expensive, requiring more time for assembly. Starter sets are ideal for beginners as they include smaller, simpler models and the necessary tools and paints for assembly.
Additionally, consider the scale of the model. Aircraft models, for example, commonly come in 1/32, 1/48, and 1/72 scales, with smaller models typically in 1/72 scale and larger, more complex models in 1/32 scale. Military vehicles like tanks are often in 1/72 or 1/35 scale, with the latter offering more detail.
Lastly, select the right type of kit. Snap-together kits are perfect for beginners as they don't require glue or paint, although they may be more challenging than classic model kits. Glue-together kits are more advanced and require additional tools and supplies, such as hobby knives and sprue cutters, for a clean and precise assembly.
Remember, it's crucial to feel comfortable with one level before progressing to the next. Choosing a kit that matches your skill level will ensure a fun and rewarding experience.
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Tools: You'll need a hobby knife and sprue cutters
When building a plastic model kit, you will likely need some tools, supplies, and/or paints. Any kit from a snap kit to an advanced kit will require you to purchase a hobby knife and a pair of sprue cutters, also known as "nippers". The type of glue you will need depends on the kit. For example, some kits like Airfix or Revell will need poly cement.
The sprue is the framework from which the parts of a model kit are removed. The cutters will help you remove parts from the sprue cleanly. The hobby knife is a tool used to "clean up" the parts. This can include removing "flash", the small line of plastic that sometimes appears at the point where the two sides of the steel mould met. You can also use the knife to shave down a part to make it fit better or to remove any piece of sprue that is left on the part.
It is important to sand down lightly any leftover material from the sprues. You should also think about how you will paint your model if you plan to do so.
In addition to the hobby knife and sprue cutters, you may also need other tools depending on the complexity of your model kit. For example, you might need cutters or pliers to trim down a small piece of paper clip to about 3/4 of an inch to reinforce the railgun.
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Assembly: Follow instructions, be patient, and gentle
Plastic model kits are a fun and rewarding hobby, but they can also be daunting, especially for beginners. The key to a successful build is to follow the instructions, be patient, and gentle during the assembly process. Here are some detailed tips to help you get started:
Start by choosing the right kit for your skill level. Model kits range from simple snap-together kits to more advanced glue-together kits. If you're a beginner, opt for a basic kit with fewer parts and clear instructions. Once you're comfortable with the process, you can gradually move on to more complex kits.
Take your time and work carefully. Before you begin, make sure you have a clean and well-lit workspace. Read through the instructions thoroughly before starting and take your time to identify the different parts and understand the assembly process. It's important to be patient and gentle, especially when handling small or delicate pieces.
During assembly, pay attention to the details. Use the provided tools, such as a hobby knife and sprue cutters, to carefully remove parts from the sprue. Clean up any leftover material from the sprues by sanding it lightly. Be cautious and gentle to avoid damaging the parts. If painting is required, plan your colour scheme in advance and work carefully to avoid mistakes.
As you assemble the model, be mindful of your technique. Some parts may require shaving or adjustments to ensure a proper fit. Take your time and make slow, controlled movements to avoid breakage. If a part breaks, don't despair. You can often repair it with a small piece of wire or paperclip and a dab of super glue.
Lastly, remember to enjoy the process. Model kit building is meant to be a therapeutic and satisfying hobby. Put on some background music or white noise to create a relaxing atmosphere. Take breaks when needed and don't rush the process. The sense of accomplishment at the end will make it all worthwhile.
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Painting: Consider colours and practice on cheaper models first
Painting a plastic model kit can be a fun and rewarding part of the model-building process. Here are some tips to help you get the best results:
Consider the colours you want to use before you start painting. Choose colours that accurately represent the subject of your model kit. For example, if you are building a military aircraft model, you may want to use colours such as camouflage green and grey. If you are building a model of a fictional character, you may want to use brighter, more vibrant colours.
It is also important to practice on cheaper models or surfaces before painting your actual model kit. This will help you improve your painting skills and techniques without risking any mistakes on your final model. Look for inexpensive practice models or alternative surfaces, such as canvas boards, that can be purchased at most craft stores. Practising on these surfaces first will allow you to get a feel for the paint, brushes, and techniques you will be using.
Additionally, it is worth noting that different types of paint may work better for different models. For example, acrylic paints are often used for plastic model kits as they are easy to work with and can be thinned with water. Enamel paints are also an option and are known for their durability and glossy finish. However, they can be more difficult to work with and require a slower drying time.
Finally, take your time and be patient during the painting process. Model kit building can be a therapeutic and enjoyable hobby, but it requires patience and attention to detail. Clean up any leftover material from the sprues and gently assemble the pieces, being careful not to apply too much pressure or force. With practice and patience, you will be able to create a beautifully painted plastic model kit that you can be proud of.
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Troubleshooting: Be prepared to fix common issues, like a broken railgun
Troubleshooting is an important part of building a plastic model kit. Here are some common issues and fixes to be aware of, including specific advice for a broken railgun:
Broken Parts:
If a piece of your plastic model kit breaks, don't panic. Firstly, try to fit the broken pieces together to identify the original look of the part. If needed, consult the instruction manual for guidance. Once you know how the piece should look, you can begin the repair process.
Repairing Broken Parts:
Before starting, ensure any paint on the broken pieces is completely dry. Use a hobby knife to carefully scrape away excess glue or paint from the broken areas. Be cautious not to damage the parts further, especially when dealing with small, intricate details. Clean hard-to-reach areas with the sharp end of the knife.
Gluing:
There are various types of glue and adhesive suitable for plastic model kits. For a strong, permanent seal, consider using a plastic welder like the Space Age Plastic Welder by Tenax (TEN7R). This product is a popular choice among model builders. Alternatively, super glue is a quick-drying option that provides strong adhesion. If you're looking for an adhesive that fills and fixes, try Bondic Liquid Plastic Welder, which comes with an LED light to instantly harden the glue.
For more delicate parts with tight-fitting surfaces, consider using Extra Thin Cement by Tamiya (TAM87038). This glue is popular in the hobby industry, especially among younger builders, due to its robust adhesion and longer setting time. When using any glue, ensure the pieces are lined up perfectly before leaving them to dry.
Filling Gaps:
If you're dealing with small gaps or holes, hot glue can be an effective solution. For larger gaps, consider using putty to fill and smooth over the affected areas.
Disguising Breaks:
If you don't want to repair a broken piece, you can disguise it as battle damage. Use a weathering kit to add sand, mud, or gunpowder wear, and create scrapes on the model's armor.
Broken Railgun:
A broken railgun can be particularly frustrating, but it can be fixed. First, identify the type of break. If the railgun's hinge part is broken, use liquid cement to fill the gap and merge the pieces. Remove any movable parts, like wings, before applying the cement, and use a tiny amount. Press the pieces together for a minute, then let the cement dry for 24 hours before reattaching the movable parts.
If the break is more complex, such as a broken sword or hilt, super glue is a good option. Krazy Glue, for example, has been used successfully to repair broken model kit parts. Ensure you hold the pieces together tightly while the glue sets.
Remember to take your time, work in a well-ventilated area, and always allow adequate drying time for repairs.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic model kits come in a variety of types, ranging in difficulty. The simplest kits are Build 'N Play kits, which usually consist of about a dozen pieces and can be played with once completed. The next level of complexity is the snap-together kit, which does not require glue or paint. The most complex kits are the glue-together kits.
The tools you will need depend on the type of kit you have. Snap kits and more advanced kits require a hobby knife and a pair of sprue cutters, or "nippers". If you are painting your model, you will need to purchase paint and potentially sand to sand down the model before painting.
It is important to choose a kit that is appropriate for your skill level. If you are a beginner, try a simpler model first.
