Tips for How to Build Model Kits

Key Takeaways:

• General recommendations for how to build any kind of model kit, and what you need for them in general
• More specific ideas for model trains, planes, automobiles, and military model kits, as well as Japanese classics like Gundam and anime models
• Ideas for storing and displaying, and how to best enjoy your model kit building hobby

There has never been a better time to start getting into hobby building, and Japan is at the heart of it all, with a plethora of plastic model kits that are as fun to build as they are to show off. But where to begin, and what do you need for model kits you’ll be proud to display?

First, one of the hallmarks of Japanese model kits is that they all include easy-to-follow step-by-step guides. While most come in multiple languages, like English, the directions are primarily visual to best guide the builder. For the rest? That’s where Plaza Japan comes in: as experts in Japanese merch, we have everything you need. Explore our guide on how to build model kits of all kinds!

What You Need for Any Model Kit

Before we tackle specifics for certain brands, model kit types, and how to build them, there are a few essential tools you’ll always need. They include:

• A well-lit, dedicated workspace. Some avid builders also invest in special LED lighting to spot the finer details.
• Cutting mat 
• Clippers - and ideally, one for the “first snip” off the sprue, and others like God Hand for the more delicate snips to remove the excess residue.
• Edge cutters and hobby knives (and don’t lose their protective caps and covers!)
• Hobby filers in a variety of different textures

Also, some, but not all, kits require glue, and sometimes it’s a builder’s preference to use it anyway; just make sure the glue is formulated specifically for plastic model kits. For example, Tamiya not only makes amazing plastic model kits but also has glues considered among hobbyists' gold standards.

Train for your Building Hobby

Model trains and Japan go together like nori and rice, and they remain among our most popular offerings. When it comes to building a locomotive model kit, there are a few things you’ll have to keep in mind at the onset: first, the scale you’ll be committing to, the scene you’re setting, and, of course, the layout of your tracks. We invite you to explore the rest of our blog for even more advice on model trains!

For the time being, what do you need for these kinds of model kits? In addition to the above, plan on acquiring:

• Needle files
• Gauge measuring tools
• Hobby pliers
• Screwdrivers

After that, choose your favorite kits, pull up to your station, and start getting on track. Because model trains literally have a lot of moving parts, make sure to keep them running with regular cleaning and maintenance!

Planes and Automobiles

Instead of trains, are planes and automobiles more your speed? If so, Japanese model cars will definitely up your cool factor, and unique Japanese aircraft will take your displays to new heights.

For these model kits, what do you need besides the basics?

• Micro drill bits and putty to securely attach the minuscule pieces
• Model kit glues for slightly larger pieces
• Primer and decals for any additional enhancements
• Some also invest in airbrush kits for even more well-coated paints

Win the Battle with Epic Military Kits

People enjoy the creativity that goes into recreating historic scenes, and others are drawn to learning how to build model kits of military vehicles, for personal reasons. Look for brands like Fujimi model kits for some of the best replicas from around the world and across eras.

Many of the tools are standard to any plastic kit building; most of what we want to highlight is how to enhance them. If you desire an aesthetic that is more battle-hardened than ready for its victory parade, you’ll definitely want to look into how to weather your model kit in addition to building it!

For weathering model kits, you’ll do well to snag brushes, sponges, and acrylic paints specifically designed for painting plastic kits, along with dry brushes for extra customization.

Mech it Up as You Go What about those classic Japanese model kits, like Gundam and anime figures? Fortunately, Japan’s model kits have become worldwide classics not only because of their cool designs, but also because all you need to build them are basic tools. However, to make your Gundam truly take wing, further enhance your kits with a selection of kit accessories like decals, along with tweezers to delicately slide them on.

Slay with an Awesome Display

We’ve highlighted some of the ways for how to build scenes for your model kits, but truly, the best ideas will come from your own sense of fun! Our selection of train accessories, such as people, animals, plants, and buildings, can come in handy. Additionally, consider displaying with anime action figures to establish a theme, declare a fandom, or even retell a story!

However you do it, just make sure to protect your creations on secure shelving, desks, or display cases, and keep them away from direct sunlight.

What You Need Most for Model Kits: A Sense of Fun

This gets us to the most important tool for building a model kit with confidence: your sense of fun! After all, it’s completely normal to make mistakes, and every hobby builder will have at least one silly story of a missed step, a slipped-up cut, a piece that mysteriously vanished, or a paint spill. Some even keep building journals for that reason.

Ultimately, hobby building is about practice and patience, which is why having a sense of humor and not taking things too seriously is your recipe for a good time. So go ahead, get a snack, put on your favorite music, and get into that satisfying rhythm of clipping, filing, and snapping.

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