Model car kit construction is a fun hobby. If you enjoy cars, you can take your passion to the next level by building these vehicles. It takes time and some skill to complete. You must pay close attention to detail and accuracy. Car modeling is a difficult job. However, the end result is extremely satisfying. Here are some car modeling tips to get you started.
You want to make a model car for the first time. The box art makes these kits look awesome, but what goes into building them? This manual will walk you through the steps.
- The box is usually more than just a container for all of the pieces. Even after the models have been produced, many tend to preserve their GMP boxes because of their nostalgic, pre-aged look. I prefer boxes that show the actual model rather than an artist’s rendering of what the model might look like when completed.
- Quality models have many parts, not all of which are used, so it’s a good idea to become acquainted with everything before beginning. Die-cast models have grown in popularity over the last decade. I prefer the traditional plastic versions because they allow me to mix and match parts so that my models aren’t identical to everyone else’s, though it’s a lot more work.
- Here are some of the tools you’ll require. Side cutters, scalpel, razor saw, dentist’s tools, tweezers, hand drill, jeweler’s screwdriver, various glues, paintbrushes, files, and toothbrush, clockwise from top left. When it comes to paint, many modelers use an airbrush, but a pressure pack can produce excellent results. With a color sand and polish, the acrylic Tamiya paint (there are other brands) comes up nicely.
- Regardless of the model, it is critical that you read the entire set of instructions before beginning. This will provide you with a clear understanding of how the model fits together and will assist you in determining which parts require painting and which do not. Because the makers of this kit expect you to use your imagination and modeling experience to put it together, the instructions aren’t detailed or prescriptive.
- It’s neater and safer to remove the tree parts with a pair of small side-cutters (sprue). Using a knife to cut them out or twisting them free may cause damage to the parts, especially the smaller ones. When snipping, make sure you’re not cutting off a portion of the actual part, as there are often protruding tabs to allow them to connect to other parts.
- Most kits include at least a couple of appearance options, such as wheels and tyres. In this case, you get smooth chromies with center caps (which you can paint if you want) and a set of traditional-looking Halibrands. There was also the option of regular or wide whitewall tyres. We chose the Halibrands and black walls because we wanted a more 60s look for our highboy.
Building and Detailing Scale Model Cars
The goal of this hobby is to create model cars that are accurate, scaled-down replicas of the real thing. These miniature replicas are meticulously recreated and come in a variety of scales. For example, you can build a car in 1:12 scale, 1:18 scale, or 1:24 scale, among other scales. This creative endeavor entails piecing together the many intricate plastic or metal parts. You will be gluing and painting bodywork, working on wheels and tires, assembling engines and transmissions, assembling braking systems, and applying decals. Some models also have ornate interiors, which can be a fun way to get started with car interior detailing.
No Prior Experience with Scale Car Modeling Is Required
To participate in this hobby, you do not need to know your chassis from your exhaust pipe. There is also no requirement for prior auto detailing experience or qualifications. However, building and detailing scale model cars necessitates the use of small, fiddly parts. As a result, you must have patience, dedication, good hand-eye coordination, and a keen attention to detail. To figure out the construction process, you will use both your hands and your head. It is a skill that must be learned. While this may sound counterintuitive, it is true.
Obtaining Model Car Supplies and Kits
Where can you get the materials for a scale model car? Everything you need should be available at specialty retail stores that sell arts and crafts supplies. If you are a beginner, you can purchase a wide variety of scale model car kits online or in store. These kits include all of the intricate parts and pieces required to build the car. Each kit will come with an instruction booklet. It will tell you what paints you need and how to put together complicated parts.
Scale Model Cars Made from Scratch
You don’t have to buy a car model kit that includes all the necessary parts and pieces. If you’re confident in your modeling abilities, why not try your hand at scratch-building a miniature car? If you’re building and detailing scale model cars from scratch, you’ll need plastic sheets like Styrene and cutting tools to make your own car parts. Styrene is widely available in hobby stores.
Choose the Best Workspace for Scale Model Car Construction and Detailing
Plan out a space where you can work uninterrupted on building and detailing scale model cars. Do you have a suitable spare room or an empty garage space? Choose a location with good lighting and a large flat surface to work on.
Model Cars Can Be Entered in National Competitions
How about entering your model car in a competition? Depending on their skills and experience, hobbyists can compete in large or small competitions. You could be ready for the GSL Model Car Championship and Convention series if you start practicing now.
Scale Model Cars for Sale and Purchase
If you are serious about building and detailing scale model cars, there is money to be made. If you’re working on a rare collectible scale model car, there might be a buyer out there willing to pay the right price. For example, a 1978 Mercury Marquis Station Wagon model car can be purchased online for more than $200. Barnebys accepted bids of more than $500 for a Pocher 1932 Rolls Royce scale model car.