Modeling is one of the most fun hobbies, allowing you to realistically recreate various objects, shapes or scenes, but it can also be very challenging. It can certainly be a bit daunting at first, but the most important thing is to be consistent, and that's when all the charm of modeling will be revealed! In this article, we'll give you some tips to help you prepare and not get lost in the modeling process.
1. Choose the model of the accurate level
For a start, we definitely do not recommend choosing very complex models. The level of models depends on the number of details and how difficult it is to assemble it. All this information is given in the description of the model. Make sure you're good at working on one level before you try to move on to the next level. Trying to assemble a model of a higher level than the skills you have, you will only be disappointed and annoyed. Also, don't be surprised if the first time everything does not get perfect - this is quite normal. Therefore, we suggest you to buy your first kits at a lower price. Building models is fun – make sure you get the right kit to get the best experience possible!
2. Have the basic tools and supplies
As a general rule, a model kit always needs glue and paint, unless the box says otherwise. For any model, you will need to purchase a knife and sprue cutters, or "nippers". Nippers will help you to cleanly remove the parts from the kit, and with the knife you will cleanly remove unnecessary residues from the parts. You will also need glue for plastic, paint and brushes. Don't worry about the kit being professional - use the first few kits as a learning process that will help you to better understand the skills and techniques needed to complete the model assembly. As you progress, there will be dozens of useful tools and supplies that you may want to acquire - masking tape, modeling putty, sandpaper, tweezers, etc., but it's not really necessary in the beginning. Most model kits will have the paint colors required shown on the box or in the instructions. Remember, you don't have to spend a lot of money on tools to get started. Start with the minimum amount needed for the kit you have. If you really enjoy this hobby, you will gradually increase and expand your work tableware and supplies over time.
3. Follow the instructions carefully
Although not everyone likes to read the instructions, you should familiarize yourself with them before you start assembling the model. Read the construction instructions carefully and also closely inspect the individual components on the detail sheets before removing the parts. For example, sometimes parts look very similar, or there are multiple copies of the same part in a kit. Therefore, you should compare the details with the illustrations in the instructions. Each model kit comes with instructions, usually with pictures, showing exactly which parts to use and in what order. Just follow the instructions and guide yourself through all the steps consistently.
4. Glue the parts
Before gluing the parts, test whether they fit together exactly. Sometimes it is necessary to remove small pieces of plastic with an additional knife so that the parts fit together perfectly. Then you can glue the details. This should be done with glue that is suitable for plastic. The photo shows Revell Contacta Professional glue specially designed for modeling - it is applied with a special thin needle. Apply a little bit of glue to the joining surfaces of the parts you want to be glued and carefully press the parts together. Usually a very small amount of glue is enough to join - if needed, you can always add more. If the glue gets outside the area you want to glue, do not clean it; allow the glue to dry (3-24 hours) and then sand it with a rasp and/or fine sandpaper.
Note: Always glue in a well-ventilated area.
5. Prepare for painting
For an even and clean painting, first clean all components with soapy water to remove dust, grease and fingerprints, then rinse with clean, warm water and allow to dry. You can also carefully wipe off excess water with a lint-free cloth.
It is advisable to practice a little before applying paint to the model with a brush for the first time. You can do this on the inside of the components (areas that won't be visible after final assembly) or on any unnecessary plastic you have. Think carefully about how you hold the component or model to avoid getting your fingers dirty. Also, think ahead about where you will put it after you paint it so that it dries nicely and the wet paint doesn't touch anything.
6. Bring models to life by painting
For beginners, it is recommended to use quick-drying, water based and non-toxic acrylic paints. After painting, the brushes can be simply washed with water. The paint should always be mixed well before use, so stir the paint vigorously with a toothpick, plastic stick or small wooden spatula for about one minute before painting. When painting, make sure that the edge of the paint bottle remains clean so that the cap closes tightly later and the paint does not dry.
At first, it is easier to paint smaller details, not yet removed from the sprue, and remove them only after they dry. Apply the paint with a brush in smooth, even movements. Avoid going back over the area that you have already painted as this can cause the paint to drag, creating a surface that looks unrealistic. Build up colour in several lighter layers, rather than a single, heavy one, as this can cover up detail. Work from light to dark as darker colours can ‘bleed’ through lighter ones. If you painted the parts separately, wait a day for them to dry before assembling the model.
Note: Do not paint the connecting surfaces that you will eventually apply the glue to.
7. Final step - applying the decals
The application of decals gives your model an appearance that is true to the original. Apply the decals in a sequence that makes assembling easier. For example, some decals can be applied before the model is fully assembled to make it easier to access the details.When it comes to applying decals, time, patience, a clean work area and a steady hand are especially important, as is having the right tools for the job (scissors, tweezers, toothpicks, paper towel and a small container for the water). First, cut out each decal as required using scissors. Using tweezers, dip the decal you have cut out in a container of warm water for a few seconds and then place the wetted decal, paper side down, on a piece of clean kitchen towel. Leave to stand for approximately 20 seconds whilst the decal’s adhesive activates with the water and the decal separates from its backing paper. Then, (holding the backing paper with tweezers) you can slide the decal just a little bit off its backing paper and onto the model (also dampen the area with warm water) using tweezers, a toothpick or a water-moistened paint brush. Once you are happy that the decal is correctly positioned, carefully soak up any excess water with paper towel and leave the decal to fully dry. Avoid touching the decal whilst it is drying.
Discover the joy of modeling!
How you build your kit is completely up to you - that's the beauty of this hobby! You can be creative, try new techniques, use your own color scheme or even use your own decals to stick on the kit. Although many modelers like to recreate a specific version of a vehicle exactly as it looked, there are no rules that define how to construct. As long as you're creating something and having fun at the same time, then you're doing it right.
Exciting modeling opportunities at Art Spices!
Choose the model you like the most and get involved in a very wide and interesting world of modeling.
