Sofia Martinez
Plastic models are a popular hobby, with many online retailers offering a wide range of kits. From military tanks to sports cars, aircraft to legendary ships, plastic models cater to a variety of interests. They also come in various scales, with options ranging from 1/24 to 1/72, and even larger scales for specific types of models. The market for selling pre-built plastic models is relatively small, and it can be challenging to make a profit unless the builder is highly skilled or creates extremely niche subjects. However, it is possible to make the hobby self-sustaining by selling models occasionally or through commissions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Market for built plastic models | Small market for built plastic models, but possible to make money if the model is of exceptional quality or an extremely obscure subject. |
| Popular platforms | Ebay, Etsy |
| Popular model types | 1/72 planes, 1/24 cars, 1/350 ships, military vehicles, aircraft, figures |
| Popular manufacturers | Tamiya, Hasegawa, Eduard, Trumpeter, Bandai, Revell-Monogram, Atlantis, Pegasus, Imex, AMT |
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What You'll Learn
Demand for plastic models
Plastic models are in high demand, with many online retailers offering a wide range of products. Hobbylinc, for example, carries 29,510 plastic models from 192 manufacturers, including popular brands such as Eduard-Models, Tamiya, Trumpeter, and AMT. These models cater to various interests, with categories like parts and accessories, cars and trucks, airplanes, and figures.
The demand for plastic models extends to military vehicles, ships, and dioramas, with Tamiya offering kits in 1/35 scale that depict German military equipment from World War II, such as the German Panther Medium Tank and the German 88mm Gun Flak. There is also a market for model ships, with HobbyBoss offering a 1/350 scale kit of the USS Los Angeles-class submarine and Tamiya producing a 1/350 scale model of the US Navy DD445 Fletcher Destroyer Boat.
Collectors also seek plastic models of aircraft, with Revell-Monogram offering kits of iconic planes such as the B-17G Flying Fortress Bomber and the SR-71A Blackbird Stealth Jet in 1/48 and 1/72 scales, respectively. Additionally, Atlantis provides unique kits like the Snoopy and His Sopwith Camel Biplane, while Bandai has a range of Star Wars-themed kits, including the Death Trooper in 1/12 scale.
The demand for plastic models extends to science fiction and anime, with kits from the Gundam series, such as the Perfect Strike Freedom from the "Gundam Breaker Battlogue" and the Ez-SR Build Fighter, which can be configured into three different models. There is also a market for model engines, with Atlantis offering kits of the Ford Mustang V8 and the Allison 501-D13 Prop Jet aircraft engine.
While some hobbyists seek intricate and detailed kits, others prefer simpler snap-together models, which can still offer customization and expressive posing options, as seen in Bandai's Nyaan "Gundam GQ" model. Overall, the demand for plastic models is diverse, catering to various interests, skill levels, and price points, with online retailers providing a convenient platform for enthusiasts to access a wide range of products.
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Selling built models
There is a market for selling built plastic models, but it is small and hard to make a lot of money in unless you are very skilled or build highly sought-after, obscure subjects. Built models are sometimes purchased for specific purposes, such as obtaining cheap donor parts or for use in a diorama or other project. They are rarely bought to be displayed or played with.
If you are looking to sell your built plastic models, there are a few options. You could try selling them on eBay, which some people use as their primary platform for selling models, or other sites like Etsy. However, it is important to note that the market is unpredictable, and you may not make a significant profit unless your models are of exceptional quality or feature unique subjects.
Another option is to sell your models through specialist websites like OldModelKits.com, which buys plastic model kits, whether they are new or already built. They accept kits from any manufacturer and in any quantity, from single kits to collections of thousands. To sell your kits, you can send them photos or a list of the kits, and they will provide a quote. If you accept their quote, you can ship the kits and receive payment via check or PayPal.
Additionally, you could explore other revenue streams related to model building, such as creating content for Patreon, YouTube, or print publications. These platforms can provide opportunities to showcase your skills, techniques, and builds, potentially attracting clients or patrons who are interested in commissioning custom models.
Finally, you could consider selling your models directly to collectors or enthusiasts through personal connections or specialised forums. This approach may allow you to negotiate prices and find buyers who truly appreciate the work and craftsmanship that goes into building plastic models.
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Scratch-built vs. plastic kits
Scratch-built models are made from scratch by the modeller, who obtains or designs their own plans and uses them to cut, trim, and put together the model from stock materials. This can include plain sheets, strips, bars, tubes, rods, or even structural shapes such as L or T girders. Modellers can also use discarded parts from other models or toys to speed up the process. Scratch-building allows modellers to create unique models that are often one-of-a-kind and highly detailed.
Plastic kits, on the other hand, are pre-fabricated models that come with all the necessary parts and instructions for assembly. They are typically mass-produced and can be easily assembled by following the included instructions. Plastic kits are widely available and can be purchased online or from hobby shops. Popular manufacturers include Eduard-Models, Tamiya, Trumpeter, and AMT, with categories including cars, trucks, vehicles, airplanes, and figures.
One advantage of scratch-built models is the level of customisation and detail that can be achieved. Scratch-builders have complete control over the design and construction of their models, allowing them to create unique and highly detailed pieces. Additionally, scratch-building can be more cost-effective, as modellers can use readily available materials or discarded parts from other models.
However, scratch-building also has its drawbacks. It requires a high level of skill and patience, as well as access to a variety of tools and materials. It can also be a time-consuming process, especially for complex models. Plastic kits, on the other hand, are more accessible to beginners and can be completed in a shorter amount of time. They are also more likely to result in a consistent and accurate representation of the subject matter.
In terms of the market for these models, there is some demand for both scratch-built and plastic kit models. Collectors may be willing to pay a premium for highly detailed and unique scratch-built models, particularly if they are created by well-known scratch builders. However, it is important to note that the market for selling built models is relatively small, and it may be difficult to make a significant profit unless the model is of exceptional quality or has an extremely obscure subject matter.
On the other hand, plastic kits have a wider appeal and can be sold on platforms like eBay and Etsy. However, the competition is high, and it may be challenging to stand out unless the model is of exceptional quality or has a unique subject matter. Ultimately, whether building from scratch or using a plastic kit, the key to success in the market is to create a model that is of high quality and appeals to the specific interests of potential buyers.
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Popular manufacturers
AMT, another popular manufacturer, offers display cases for plastic models, such as the AMT Chevy Camaro Z28 1970 1/2 Plastic Model Car Kit and the AMT Star Trek USS Enterprise NCC1701D Plastic Model Spacecraft Kit.
Eduard-Models, based in the Czech Republic, specializes in model airplane kits, including models of World War I era airplanes.
Trumpeter, a Chinese manufacturer, offers a variety of military scale models, including aircraft display stands, decal trays, and plastic model vehicle accessories.
Other notable manufacturers of plastic models include Hasegawa, Bandai, Revell-Monogram, HobbyBoss, and Dragon.
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Plastic models as gifts
Plastic models are a popular hobby, with many online retailers offering a wide range of kits and accessories. These kits can make great gifts for enthusiasts, providing both enjoyment and learning.
There is a large variety of plastic model kits available, with something to suit all skill levels. Kits can be purchased from online hobby shops, such as MegaHobby.com, Hobbylinc, and Wonderland Models, which offer a range of models, including cars, trucks, aircraft, ships, military vehicles, and figures. These kits often include accessories and can be purchased at different scales. For example, Hobbylinc offers the Tamiya German Hanomag Sd.Kfz. 251/1 Half-track Plastic Model Military Vehicle Kit in 1/35 scale.
When considering a plastic model kit as a gift, it is important to keep in mind the skill level and interests of the recipient. For beginners, a simpler kit may be more appropriate, while more experienced builders may enjoy a challenge. Additionally, the subject matter should align with their interests, whether it be historical military vehicles, science fiction spacecraft, or classic cars.
Online retailers often provide customer reviews and skill level ratings, making it easier to select an appropriate kit. For example, Revell-Monogram is ranked #1 in plastic models gift ideas, offering a range of airplane kits, including the SR-71A Blackbird Stealth Jet in 1/72 scale. Wonderland Models also offers a range of plastic model kits as Christmas gift ideas, with express shipping available for last-minute shoppers.
Plastic models can make unique and engaging gifts, providing an opportunity for learning and creativity. With a vast array of options available, there is sure to be a kit that will delight and inspire the recipient.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, there is a market for plastic models, but it is small. While you may not make a lot of money, you can make the hobby pay for itself quite easily.
You can try selling your plastic models on eBay, Etsy, or other online marketplaces.
Plastic models come in many shapes and sizes, including cars, trucks, vehicles, airplanes, helicopters, boats, figures, and snap kits.
The price you can sell your plastic models for will depend on the quality of your work and the subject matter. Well-known scratch builders can command relatively high prices (high four to low five figures), but most recreational plastic kit modelers are fortunate to cover their hard costs.
