Your First Kit: Tools and Glue

Do you wanna get into plastic model kits but feeling a bit overwhelmed about what tools and supplies you'll need? Whether you're constructing your first model car, aircraft, or any other kit, having the right tools and understanding the types of glue required can make your build smoother and more enjoyable. 

Let’s break down the essentials to help you get started!

Must Have Tools for Your Model Kit

Nippers: The most crucial tool in your modeling arsenal is a good set of nippers. These are used to carefully cut the parts from the sprue—the frame that holds all the pieces together. A sharp, precise set of nippers will help you avoid damaging the parts or leaving unsightly nubs.

Tweezers: When dealing with tiny decals, parts, or intricate details, tweezers are your best friend. They help you handle and position small pieces without risking damage to your model.

File or Sandpaper: After cutting parts from the sprue, you'll notice small mold lines or excess plastic. This is where a file or sandpaper comes in handy. Lightly sanding these areas will smooth out any imperfections, ensuring a clean and professional finish.

Hobby Knife: A hobby knife is indispensable for detailed work. It’s perfect for trimming small pieces, cleaning up excess plastic, or handling intricate decals. A steady hand and a sharp blade are key to making precise cuts.

Choosing the Right Glue

Plastic Cement: Unlike regular superglue, plastic cement is specifically designed for model kits. It works by melting the plastic parts together, creating a strong bond. You can choose between brush-on types or those with a needle tip for precision. Always opt for plastic cement rather than superglue for joining plastic parts, as it ensures a cleaner and stronger bond.

Canopy Glue: If your model features clear parts, such as canopies or windows, you'll need canopy glue. Regular cement or superglue can cause these clear parts to frost up, ruining their clarity. Canopy glue is designed to be transparent and is ideal for these delicate components. PVA glue can also be a good alternative for clear parts.

Painting Essentials

Primer: Before you start painting, applying a primer is crucial. Primer helps the paint adhere better to the plastic and ensures a smooth and even finish. It also highlights any imperfections that may need attention before the final paint is applied.

Paint: You have several options for painting your model: brush, spray, or airbrush. Each method has its advantages, so choose the one that best fits your project and skill level. Brushes are great for detail work, sprays are perfect for covering large areas quickly, and airbrushes offer a high level of control for fine detailing.

Top Coat (Varnish): Once your paint is dry, apply a top coat or varnish to protect the paint and give your model a polished look. Top coats can be matte, glossy, or satin, depending on the finish you desire.

Extra Tips for a Successful Build

Workspace: Set up a clean, well-lit workspace to keep all your tools and materials organised. A dedicated modeling area can help you stay focused and prevent mishaps.

Patience: Model building requires patience and attention to detail. Take your time with each step, and don’t rush the process.

Practice: Don’t be discouraged if your first build isn’t perfect. Practice makes perfect, and every model you build will improve your skills.

Conclusion

By equipping yourself with the right tools and understanding the proper types of glue and paint, you'll be well on your way to creating stunning model kits. Remember, the journey of building your first kit is as rewarding as the final product itself. Enjoy the process, and happy modelling! Watch this video for more tips.

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