If you’re thinking about starting your journey into model car building, you’re in for a rewarding and relaxing hobby that combines creativity, patience, and craftsmanship. One of the first questions new hobbyists ask is: What tools do I need to get started? In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential tools and materials that will help you begin your model car building adventure with confidence.
1. Do Your Research First
Before diving into your build, it’s important to understand the model kit you’re working with. Not all kits are created equal—some are simple and beginner-friendly, while others are highly detailed and complex.
A fantastic resource to help you with this is Scalemates. This website features an extensive database of model kits, including Tamiya and many other brands. You can find user reviews, complexity ratings, and even downloadable instruction manuals. This allows you to preview the kit’s contents, see how complex it is, and plan ahead for tools and paint colors you’ll need.
2. Basic Cutting and Cleanup Tools
When you open your kit, you’ll find that many of the parts are attached to plastic sprues. Cutting and cleaning these parts properly is a crucial step in achieving a clean, professional look.
- Hobby Knife or Flat Blade
A sharp knife is essential for removing parts cleanly from the sprues and for scraping away mould seams—the thin lines left from the manufacturing process. - Sandpaper or Nail Buffing Sponges
To smooth out mould seams and ejection pin marks (the little circular marks where the parts were ejected from the mold), you’ll need both coarse and fine grit sandpaper. Nail buffing sponges, which are inexpensive and come with multiple grits, work surprisingly well for model finishing.
3. Glue – Choosing the Right Type for the Right Job
Not all glues are the same, and using the wrong one can damage your parts or weaken the build.
- Tamiya Extra Thin Cement
This is a must-have for beginners and experts alike. It works by slightly melting the plastic, creating a strong weld between parts. It also comes with a precise brush applicator, making it easy to apply in small areas. - Superglue (Cyanoacrylate)
Once you’ve painted your parts, avoid using plastic cement, as it can damage the paint. Instead, use superglue for painted components. It provides a less strong bond, but it’s perfect for small detailed parts. - White Glue (PVA)
When working with clear parts like windows or headlights, stay away from plastic cement and superglue, which can “fog” or cloud the clear plastic. White glue is the safest option here—it dries clear and doesn’t damage the parts.
4. Painting Supplies – Start Simple
Painting is where your model comes to life, and the right tools can make a huge difference.
- Spray Cans for the Car Body
For the body of the car, using a spray can (such as Tamiya’s TS range) is highly recommended. Brush painting a car body usually results in streaks or an uneven finish, which can be frustrating for beginners. Spray cans offer a smooth, even coat and are easy to use with a little practice. - Masking Tape
If your model has multiple body colors or racing stripes, masking tape is your best friend. It allows you to get crisp, clean edges between color transitions and protects areas you don’t want painted. - Brush Paints for Small Parts
For interior details, engine components, or small parts, brush painting is perfectly acceptable. Water-based acrylics like Vallejo, Citadel, Revell, or Humbrol work well straight from the bottle. You can thin them with a bit of water for smoother results.
5. Optional but Worth Considering: Airbrush
As you get more comfortable with model building, you might want to upgrade your painting game with an airbrush. Airbrushes offer superior control, allow for custom color mixing, and can achieve very fine detailing.
However, they come with a learning curve and require regular cleaning. They also require extra equipment like a compressor, thinner, and cleaning tools. If you’re serious about the hobby long-term, an airbrush is a worthwhile investment—but it’s not necessary when you’re just starting out.
Final Tips for Beginners
- Work Slowly and Patiently
Don’t rush the process—model building is all about patience and attention to detail. - Follow Instructions Carefully
The kit’s manual is your best guide. Take time to understand each step and double-check before gluing or painting. - Start Simple
Choose a kit that’s beginner-friendly. Tamiya kits are known for their excellent design and ease of assembly. - Have Fun and Experiment
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Every model you build will teach you something new!
Starting…
Starting model car crafting doesn’t require a huge investment, but having the right tools makes a big difference in the quality of your build and your overall enjoyment. With a sharp knife, some sandpaper, the right glue, and a few paints, you’ll be ready to bring your first model car to life.
As your skills grow, you can gradually upgrade your tools and take on more complex builds. Until then, enjoy the process and happy modeling!
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