Common Mistakes to Avoid When Building Gunpla

Gunpla kits are categorized into different grades, each offering a unique level of complexity and detail. Knowing these grades can help you pick the perfect kit for your skill level and interests. Here’s a quick rundown:

• Entry Grade (EG): Ideal for beginners, these kits are easy to assemble and budget-friendly. They’re a great starting point for anyone new to Gunpla.

• High Grade (HG): A step up from Entry Grade, HG kits offer more detail and complexity, making them perfect for intermediate builders looking to hone their skills.

• Master Grade (MG): These kits are highly detailed and complex, featuring full inner frames and intricate parts. They are best suited for experienced builders.

• Perfect Grade (PG): The pinnacle of Gunpla kits, PG models are the most detailed and intricate, with numerous gimmicks and full inner frames. They are recommended for expert builders seeking the ultimate challenge.

• Real Grade (RG): Designed to achieve a realistic look, RG kits are detailed and complex, suitable for intermediate builders who want a high-quality model without the complexity of a PG kit.

• Super Deformed (SD): These chibi-style kits offer a fun and easy way to get into Gunpla. They are less detailed but charming and quick to build.

By understanding the different grades of Gunpla kits, you can choose the right kit for your skill level and interests, making the hobby of building and customizing your own Gundam models even more enjoyable.

Having the right tools makes all the difference when building a Gundam model. Sure, you could try to cut parts off the sprue with a pair of old scissors, but you’ll likely end up with uneven cuts, excess plastic, and a lot of frustration.

Invest in some basic tools like nippers, a hobby knife, sanding sticks, and tweezers. These tools are designed to make the building process smoother and more enjoyable.

Tip: Quality tools don’t have to be expensive. Even a small investment in proper tools will greatly improve your building experience and the quality of your finished model.

Before you start gluing and snapping parts together, especially with Gundam model kits, it’s crucial to prepare them properly. This includes trimming off excess plastic, sanding down rough edges, and cleaning any dust or residue from the parts. Skipping this step can lead to loose parts, weak joints, and a model that doesn’t hold together as well as it should.

Tip: Spend a little extra time on prep work—it makes a huge difference. Smooth, clean parts will fit together better and give your model a more polished look.

Painting and detailing your Gundam kit can elevate it from a simple model to a work of art. However, many beginners shy away from this step, thinking it’s too complicated or unnecessary. While it’s true that some kits look great straight out of the box, adding your own paint and details can bring your model to life in a way that’s uniquely yours.

Tip: Start small. You don’t need to paint the entire model if you’re not ready. Focus on small details or add some panel lining to enhance the look. As you get more comfortable, you can experiment with more complex techniques.

Decals are like the finishing touches that add authenticity and character to your Gunpla. However, applying them can be tricky. Common mistakes include misalignment, air bubbles, and tearing. To avoid these, take your time and use the right tools.

Tip: Use tweezers to handle small decals and a soft cloth or cotton swab to smooth out air bubbles. Applying a clear coat before and after the decals can also help them adhere better and last longer.

The final touches—like topcoats, panel lining, and weathering—can make a world of difference in how your Gunpla looks. Skipping these steps can leave your model looking unfinished or less detailed than it could be.

Tip: Don’t rush the finishing process. Take your time to apply topcoats evenly, use panel lining to highlight details, and add weathering to give your model a more realistic appearance.