 |
Modeling FAQ (Beginner) |
What do I need to be a modeler?
You need money, time and patience.
What do I need to start?
Obviously, you need a model kit. Buying a complete model supplies in one go is
expensive. I will recommend buying those things progressively. You can start
accumulating your supplies as you go on.
Which model should I buy?
This is a subjective matter. Buy things that you like but not your favorite on
your first model. You might regret at some point later. As your skill increases,
your first kit will look like Quasimodo comparing to your latest work of art.
Do you plan to do painting?
If you do painting, I will suggest getting a cheap kit to try out, say a First
Grade. No one is born an artist so get a cheap one to minimize your financial loss.
Work your way up as your skill increases.
If you do not paint then I will suggest getting a master grade. Forget about
anything at lower grade, which require some painting to look nice. Only MG kits are
100% molded in the correct color on all parts (with some exception in certain kits
but the difference is hardly noticeable).
What supplies should I get first?
A wire cutter, a large nail clipper, a hobby knife, modeling cement and some wet
sanding paper.
For whatever reasons you do not wish to invest too much on the tools then armed
yourself with a large nail clipper. I complete my first kit with only a nail
clipper.
I got all supplied that I need. What do I do next?
Start building your kit. Read the instruction carefully. Cut the part out from the
trees. Clean up the excess then snap it together.
How do I cut out the parts?
Read the instruction carefully. Use a wire cutter to cut out the parts from the
sprues. It is easier and cleaner this way. Cut it as far as possible from the parts
surface.
For those who paint:
Use a nail clipper to cut out the gates and then use fine sand paper (1000 grit) to
further sand of the excess. For experience knife wielder, use a craft knife instead
of a nail clipper.
For those who do not paint:
Use a craft knife to cut out the gates and then use fine sand paper (1000 grit) to
further sand of the excess.
Nail clipper provide a faster and safer job but the work is not perfect. Require
more sanding to achieve a perfect finish.
Craft knife provides a better finish but require some experience. Cutting the gates
on complex surfaces is a challenge.
I will suggest using a nail clipper and the finish it off with the knife.
How do I assemble the cut out parts?
Follow the instruction carefully to snap those parts together.
Document Date: 01.10.2002
Responses to this page: