Plastic Model Airplanes for Beginners - 5 FAQs Answered

It would be good to try something new, right? Why not make it a hobby to build or collect plastic model airplanes?  You can enjoy the design of these planes and might display it in your living room. Beginners are sure to have a lot of questions when it comes to plastic model airplanes.

Well, here are a few essential FAQs you should know. For sure, these would help you if you’re building a plane model or planning to select one.


1. What type of glues is used on plastic model airplanes?
The glue type depends on the maker or the provider of plastic models. One of the commonly used glue is the tube glue that proves consistent in holding the parts of the plane.  You can also expect a non-toxic formula with this glue.

There’s also the epoxy or the super glue that provides a good result in keeping the parts of the plane kit on the right place. If you built a plane, it would be best to choose super glue due to its effective results.

Also, you need to keep in mind of the right process of applying the glue to achieve a good result. It helps you to get a creat8on that’s amazing and perfect.

2. What are the types of paints used in plastic models?
There are diverse paints that apply to plastic model airplanes. A few examples of these are the enamel and the acrylic paints. People who remodel plastic airplanes use water to combine with the paints. They pour a little amount of paint to assure a lasting and perfect finish.

For beginners, it would best to be under the guidance of an expert for them to learn the basics. It helps in speeding up the remodel process and gives an excellent result. After the painting process, you can set the parts in a certain place and let it dry.

3. Is it difficult to assemble plastic model airplanes?
For hobbyists, it takes time, but they enjoy the assembly process. Why? They have an opportunity to improve their skills in each model they make. There are also skills and techniques that they learn that results to great plastic models. The models they make range from the simple to complex models.

For beginners, the assembly process is overwhelming. They have to follow instructions in a systematic process to make the remodel process excellent. The process of modeling the plane takes time. But, they can give an advantage to it due to consistent training or practice.

4. Why models look different in the box than those on the actual kit?
It might be confusing for beginners to see the plastic model airplanes on the box are different from the actual kit. Here’s the explanation for it. The producer made changes in the actual prototype before its release.

There are also instances that the photo on the box isn’t completed. It also serves as a prototype for the actual model. But, don’t worry! The plastic model airplanes are guaranteed to be good quality. So, there’s satisfaction in having plastic model planes.

5. What are qualities to look for in selecting the best plastic model airplanes?
There are many designs of airplanes you can choose. But which of these fit your standards? Beginners and hobbyists need to focus on the quality of the planes.  They can assure this through to the paints and glues of the plastic planes.

Some beginners can choose planes depending on their preference. They can choose the plastic plane model that suits the place where they would display it.  But, you don’t forget to pick planes that have the right size. You also need to consider that it fits the shelves you would put it.

Take note; the quality is important in selecting the right plastic model planes. But, you need to make sure that you like to display it. If you do, you have the satisfaction you wish to have.
Plastic model airplanes are excellent deals for both beginners and hobbyists who want to have it. If you want to have one, you make sure that you know its material and quality. You would be grateful to have it in your home due to its design and elegance. You might make a unique plastic model that you would like.

How to Avoid Ruining Your First Model Aircraft Kit - 10+ Essential Tips

guest post by Tony Garcia

I used to love to build plastic scale models as a kid. I've even built a few as an adult. I think you will find scale models as much fun as I did. Plastic model kits are getting more difficult to find in stores these days.

If you're really interested you should find a hobby shop close by that carries scale models or you can search online if you can't find what you're looking for in your local hobby store.

Some online stores specialize in certain types of models. For instance, some stores carry military aircraft models only and some online stores carry helicopter models only. This makes it easier for you to find exactly what you are looking for.


You can learn a lot about whatever you are building by learning the names of the different components as you put your model together. For instance, if you build a model car you will likely learn the names of a lot of the different engine parts.

Here are a few important tips for the beginning plastic model aircraft builder.

1. Select a proper work place. Choose a well lit and ventilated area or room which will not hinder your work as the model requires time to build. Ideally, the place is where you could leave the model partially completed if necessary.
2. Read the instructions completely before beginning and refer back to them as you build. This is the most important of all. You must read the installation manual that comes with the model. It is a detail step-by-step instruction outlining the different phrases of construction from start to finish. Make sure you study and understand the directions given in the guide. This essential step will in fact play a major part in the success of your model building.
3. Plan the work sequence in advance. Plan the model building phrases from start to finish in advance. Break it down to stages and decide which part needs to be assembled or painted first. Make use of the installation manual to assist you in the planning.
4. Before you assemble your model, you will want to spray paint it. If you assemble it first, you will you will not be able to get paint into some of the tight areas and your model will look like it was built by an amateur. Buy spray paint in a can to paint the body or fuselage of your model. Be sure to shake the can vigorously for 30 - 60 seconds before painting. Test paint a small area on a piece of cardboard to check for color and smooth spray.
5. Spray paint in a well-ventilated area only. It is important that you hold the spray can the correct distance from your model...about 6 inches is usually recommended. If you get it too close your paint job will have runs in it; too far away and your paint job will have an orange peel effect(it will look rough and dull). Keep the can moving while spraying...again, too much time spent in one spot will result in runs and a not-so-great paint job. Before you spray paint your first model, practice on an old cardboard box. Allow the first coat to dry for at least an hour and then apply a second coat.
6. Paint most of the small parts with a brush before detaching them and before assembling your model. This will make it easier to paint small parts without getting paint all over your fingers and fingerprints in your paint job.
7. Before you glue parts together, scrape any paint or if it is a chrome part, scrape any chrome off of the surfaces where the glue will be applied. If you do not, the paint will peel off later and the pieces will come apart.
8. Make sure you have a well-ventilated for using your model glue. Be sure to put down several layers of newspaper to work on. It might be your last model if you get glue on your Mom's table!
9. When spray painting a model car body, sometimes you can fashion a body holder from a clothes hanger. This prevents you from getting spray paint all over your hands and from getting finger prints on your fresh paint job.
10. Be Patient! Take your time. If you rush you are more likely to make mistakes. Exercise patience and take your time. If you are having difficulty, refer back the installation manual to find answers. The moment you wanted to complete the work at a faster pace, you are likely to make mistakes and feel frustrated.
11. Display your finished model in a safe place. You may even want to purchase a small glass case for it.
12. If you really like model-building you may want to purchase an air brush to do a more professional looking paint job.
13. Always complete your work. Do not give up or throw away the model if one part is missing or you did something wrong. Continue the work to get it done and learn from your mistakes. You will gain valuable experience and avoid similar problems with new model in the future.

Building model kits can be considered tedious and time consuming. It does require the hobbyist to have patience and dedication. But in the end, all is worthwhile when you feel satisfied and amazed at the completed model.

How to apply decals to a Plastic Model Airplane

Model Planes Building Tips for Beginners

As a hobbyist it can be an enjoyable pastime to build your own model plane. Here are some tips for creating a better-looking plastic model plane. These tips will help you to build plastic model planes.

1. When you get your model plane kit make sure that you wash all the parts properly with soap and water as plastic parts are made by injection molding and are covered with a chemical that is used to release the parts from the injection mold. If not removed by washing, this chemical will prevent proper paint adhesion to the model. Dry the parts using a hair dryer after you wash them.


2. The first thing to assemble and paint should be the cockpit as this would be enclosed permanently in the fuselage halves and it will be practically impossible to paint it later.

3. Use only a minimum amount of glue. You should try using only a thin line of glue around the fuselage and on the sides of the wings. If you find it difficult to control the amount of glue, try using a pin for applying it. If not controlled during application excess glue will form lumps on the external surface that will require finishing with sandpaper.

4. Alignment is of paramount importance during assembly. All your efforts will be in vain if the result is a crooked airplane. The wings and tail should be perfectly aligned with the fuselage. The best way would be to use tape for holding the big pieces together to check their alignment before glue is applied.

5. Many times you can observe gaps between the pieces that have been glued together. More often such gaps will be found between the fuselage halves or at joints between the wings and the fuselage. Just fill these gaps with putty or super glue and finish the surface with sandpaper once the filler dries out.

6. (a) If you are brush painting your model plane make sure that you have at least three brush sizes, wide medium and fine with you before you start painting. Never overlap brush strokes or try repainting any area that is still wet. If another coat is necessary, wait until the first coat dries out before applying the next one. When you finish painting clean your brushes with thinner and stack them upright in some old tin or cup.

(b) When painting with spray cans you may find that the flow slows down after some time. This is because the can cools down. The remedy is to place the can in warm water for about ten minutes before using it again.

(c) Though a bit costly, if you have an airbrush it is best as it will let you control the paint volume and air pressure letting you paint fine lines as desired.

7. The clear plastic canopy of your model plane has a frame that needs to be painted. A good way is to cover the whole canopy with masking tape and use a sharp blade to cut and remove the tape only from the frame, which can then be painted and left to dry. After the paint dries, remove the rest of the tape from the canopy.

8. Apply a coat of clear gloss overcoat over the paint to give your plane a shiny look. Once the gloss coat dries, you can apply the decals, which will now look much better on the glossy surface. It the plane has a naturally flat surface you can apply a clear flat coat after you apply the decals.

How to paint a cockpit

Some useful tips here

How Make Your Model Airplane Look Awesome

Model planes are not only dear to boys but men also. They find them very amusing and entertaining. They love having them as a part of their collection and are a very popular past time for them. They are available in many kits as of today, depending on choice and the size of your purse. You get them in Balsa wood and in Plastic. Besides looking good, planes need to last long too. So you can opt to paint on an iron-on-film covering, which does not chip easily. And hence retains the colour for a longer period of time. It is more tough and durable too. Some planes are not just for fun, but are family heirlooms. They become one, because they are taken care of and hence are passed down from generation to generation. Some people treat them like their playmates, and hence take extra care of them.


Before you think of painting, you have to ensure that you scrape down the surface with sandpaper as it will smoothen out any dents, raised edges or rough spots. Fill up dents or holes with model filler or putty which is locally available. Use a tack cloth to wipe all extra dust and grit. Apply a coat of primer so as to prevent wrinkles from forming. When you want to use a covering, choose from a film that looks like a metal covering or cloth that has a unique and creative look. You also need a hobby knife, a covering iron, covering thermometer and a yardstick. First always cover the bigger surfaces and then go to the smaller surfaces. For the wings and the fuselage, cut it into four different pieces and stick it onto two different sections. The top and the bottom, and do not forget to stretch it at the edges.

You can add some great trims, which not only look good but are so visible from the ground, flying high up in the air. Cut them in perfect straight edges. If you do not have clear windows or windshields, use black or silver as an imitation to suggest. You can also experiment with pin striping tape, which is available in the stationery shop. They come in different colours, and you can use your imagination and arrange them accordingly. In a pattern that suits your taste. Choosing the right colours are also very important. Opt for bright and vibrant colours, which can be seen from afar, especially when you are trying to track your plane from the ground. Be creative and use colour techniques with the wings and the fuselage. One good tip is to always ensure that you colour the top of the plane with light colours and the bottom with dark colours.

Make Your First Model Airplane Kit in Several Easy Steps

Have you ever wanted to make your own model airplane? It may be easier than you think. Building model planes if a great hobby, and it takes a bit of patience. If you love planes, and you aren't sure how to go about creating your own model, these simple steps can help you.

First, shop around for a model plane kit. There are many different varieties, so take a look around at your options. You can choose from commercial aircraft planes to military fighter planes. They are available in stores and online.


Second, make sure the box contains all of the parts necessary for a full completion of the model plane. Sometimes the parts are connected to each other for packing reasons. Just cut of the plastic that you don't need. You can use sand paper to smooth off any marks from this.

Next, read all of the instructions carefully. Make sure that you understand everything. This is the most important part.

Now you can wash all of the parts in mild soap, and dry them off for painting. Then paint the parts and allow them to dry. Don't paint over the areas that will be glued to other parts of the model plane. Wait several hours so that the paint is well dried.

The next step is adding the stickers to all of the appropriate areas. Remember to consult the instructions to be sure where to put them. Soak them in water for a few seconds and apply them with tweezers. Use a tissue to remove the excess water from the stickers.

Glue the model airplane pieces together according to the instructions. It is a good idea to glue one section and then let it dry before trying to glue the next section on.

You can add weathering details with a fine brush or spray. Once everything is dry and the decals are in place, apply a finishing gloss coating over the model airplane. Avoid getting the coating on lights, canopies or other clear parts.

The last step is allowing the final coating to dry. Then you can put your new model airplane, that you put together yourself, on display. You can show all of your friends and family what you have done. If you decide to make more model planes, you may consider selling them. If it did not go well for you, there are plenty of already made model planes for sale online and in shops.

Scale Model Aircraft - Building Your Skills

A guest post by Robert Navidad

If you are anything like me, chances are you get a massive kick out of completing your latest scale model aircraft. Personally, I love static models and RC models. No matter which hobby fits you the most, I trust you take a keen interest to producing the best quality results.

Fortunately, there are tons of resources out there which can help you build the required skills to build, detail and finish scale model aircraft. For me, this began with the 'Modelling Scale Aircraft' book.

One question I hear a lot is "How can I get better at building these models". The short answer is practice. It comes down to study, learning new skills and starting with better kits and plans. There are so many ways to acquire these things, but they are most definitely not going to come from staying in your comfort zone.


Pushing the boundaries by purchasing more difficult models, or trying out some new technique you may have heard somewhere along the line is a sure fire way to become an expert. It is this willingness to learn that separates the good from the bad, and the end results should fuel your passion.

The internet is a solid place to begin looking for new knowledge which you can apply, but given you are reading this, you've probably already worked that out. However, you are not going to get any better without putting the new stuff you've learned into practice. You might completely mess it up, but that's exactly the point. Messing things up proves you are pushing boundaries, and this is by far the most effective way to learn.

Another extremely good option is purchasing complete guides that take you through the entire process, giving tips along the way. Do ensure that you choose a well illustrated book so that you can see exactly what is being done. This is where I should recommend "Modelling Scale Aircraft", which you can find below, or on the scale model aircraft blog.

Tools

They say that only a poor tradesman blames his tools, but without quality tools, some jobs simply can't be done. What I am saying is that one of the most important things you can do is ensure you have the right tools. On top of that, they should be of high quality. Cheap ones are only going to break and oftentimes make the job harder.

Be it files, an airbrush, blades or brushes, not only does using the right tools make it that much easier to work on your projects, but not having them can make it near impossible to achieve excellent levels of detail.

Plastic Model Airplanes Kits Building - Basic Tools and Materials

Plastic model airplanes kits building is not as complicated as you think it is. You just have to learn the necessary skill and apply it. The learning process takes time and you might even feel frustrated and disappointed along the way.

The most essential element for your ultimate success is patience. Take your time to acquire the basic skill and build up your confidence level and gradually proceed to more complicated model. As with other hobby and craft, you will need some basic modeling tools and materials to build your first plastic model. Here is a list of tools and materials that you can start with.


1. Hobby knife
For cutting purposes such as removing parts and trimming away access stub after cutting.

2. Sandpaper
For sanding off unwanted molded lines or sharp edges to achieve a smooth surface. The sandpaper is available in extra fine, fine and medium grits. Another alternative is to use emery boards.

3. Liquid plastic cement
This liquid plastic cement dissolves plastic surfaces to form a weld like bonding. This type of solvent cement is much neater and easier to work with as compare to those that come in a tube.

4. Plastic filler putty
This is used to fill up any gaps to achieve a smooth surface and more realistic appearance.

5. Small needle files
For sanding precise or certain areas that could not be done by using sandpaper. Small needle files are available in the form of square, round and triangle.

6. Spring clamps or rubber bands
To hold parts together during the bonding stage.

7. Toolbox
This is to keep all the small tools and materials in a handy and portable box.

8. Table
Find a table which you can use exclusively for your model building activity.

9. Cutting board
To be used as a form of protection for your table top against cement or extensive cutting by the knife.

10. Desk lamp
If the lighting in your work place is insufficient or too dim, use a desk lamp. Avoid building your models in a bad lighting that will hurt your eyes and ended up with a bad job.

Some of the items listed above are optional; you can ignore or include it at a later stage. As you begin to build more scale model planes and gain experience, the collection of tools and materials will also increase.

Plastic model airplanes kits building are an enjoyable and learning activity. When you have transformed an assortment of plastic parts into a complete and finished aircraft model, it gives you a sense of pride and satisfaction.

Building Revell B-29 Superfortress. From Start to Finish. 1/48 Scale.

Some great tips

Plastic Model Aircraft Kits Building - Airbrush Basics

Airbrushing is similar to spray painting using an aerosol can, except that you can control the amount of paint to be applied to the model. The tip of the airbrush emits a fine spray of paint that is adjustable by regulating the air flow. This tool enables you to create all kinds of unique and painting effects, which cannot be reproduced by either spray can painting or brush painting.

The basic components are the airbrush, a paint bottle and an air supply. The air supply is connected to the airbrush by a hose. Compressed gas can is frequently use as the propellant for airbrushing. An airbrush operates by using compressed air to propel the paint out of the bottle and onto your model. The amount of air through the airbrush is control by a trigger button. When you press the button, the air flows through the brush. When you release the button, the air stops.


One of the main advantages of using an airbrush is that you can spray any color you desire and the ability to control the spray pressure. These features enable you to apply thin, even overall color coats and to spray intricate camouflage patterns. An airbrush is best suited for painting small parts already attached to the model and painting camouflage colors for military models.

When using airbrush, the paint should be thinned about 30 percent from its normal brushing consistency. Test the spray paint on pieces of scrap cardboard. Then adjust the paint control and air pressure for optimum coverage. Begin with the paint control fully open and gradually tighten it down until the paint dries almost as soon as it touches the surfaces being sprayed. To achieve best result, airbrushes should be kept clean. If you are not using the airbrush for a long period, take it apart for a thorough cleaning.

It takes time and effort to master the skills and tactics of airbrushing. One effective way to learn is to practice on scrap materials. For those who are serious about plastic model kits building, it is recommended that you own an airbrush now or later.

Model Airplane Kits - Where to Look For the Vintage Plastic Kits

Model airplane kit building as a hobby is enjoyed by those very young to those more advanced in years. Over the last number of years even young girls have picked up the hobby of building plastic model airplane kits. But if the truth be told with what is going on in the world today a young girl or boy with a room full of built model airplane kits that they built in their spare time instead of the mall is a very healthy thing.

So on to the story where to find the vintage plastic kits? You know the some of those really great reproductions of the famous War-birds of the past with the notes to dress them out in their famous colors of the era. Some say match the skills of the builder with the plastic model airplane kit. Rarely will you find a kit that is too complicated for the very young to the very old.


There is nothing like the completion of a difficult plastic model airplane project dressed up in its vintage colors presented on display. This makes a very healthy sense of accomplishment for the builder. Especially if it was difficult to build and you had to enlist the help of one of the model builder forums on the internet for help in completing your project.

So where to find the best vintage model kits? The answer to this question could go on forever. But let's fill you with some ideas and get you started right. Well there are you traditional hobby shops that are always filled with the latest model airplane kits. But here is a place you may not have thought of. Old war-bird museums' are always jam packed with vintage plastic model airplane kits that are from the past not just the new stuff.

Here are a couple of resources that are great for finding a special vintage model treasure most have never thought of. Keeping a watchful eye open can turn up a new vintage model treasure just about every day. One such place is eBay but you must watch often because the model kits are up sometimes for a day and then gone. Another such place to keep a watchful eye on is Craigslist and the same is true here they come and go every day.

25 Tips for Scale Modellers

Some great tips here

Plastic Model Airplane Building Tips

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced modeller who has been building model planes for many years now, you can enjoy the following tips.

1) Choose a good model airplane building station.

There is no reason you can't use an existing desk, a fold out table or even the kitchen table.

Just choose an area where you will be comfortable for the amount of time you intend to spend in this building session and be sure to prepare your area for the tasks at hand.

Plastic model airplane building requires using glue and paint. No matter how careful you are, you will end up with both glue and pain on your working surface. Be sure to prepare that surface with a removable lining for easy clean up and protection of your chosen work surface.


2) Always wash everything before you start.

Use soap and water to clean all of your parts. This is important for both gluing and painting your models. A nice clean dry surface means your model will be much stronger and have a much nicer paint job.

3) Read the directions!

Honestly. Everyone wants to jump in and just start building. Nobody thinks they need the instructions.

But I guarantee that you will have a lot more fun if you just take the time to read through all of the instructions before you start.

Also keep a yellow highlighter pen handy during this first reading. Mark anything that seems confusing at first or any important warnings.

4) Always allow the glue to dry overnight before attempting to paint your model.

This is key to a good paint job. It is natural to want to finish your model as quickly as possible.

That does NOT give the best results though. Instead, glue everything together and then let it dry overnight.

5) Use putty to fill in the gaps.

Patience is the key here too. After using putty carefully to fill in any gaps or seams, allow it to fully dry.

6) Wash your model again before painting.

Wash your assembled model again with soapy water and allow it to fully dry.

Why? Because this is your chance to remove oils from the plastic. Your paint job will look spectacular if you remove all of the oils from your hands before you start painting.

7) Always paint the interior first.

This is a common mistake for beginners. If you start with the outside, you will end up needing to touch up after you accidentally get interior paint on the exterior of your model.

If you start from the interior, you will always end up with the very best paint job.

8) Enjoy your new model.

This is the pay off. Since you were very careful and patient, you now have a model that will last for years and you can be proud to display.

Enjoy it. This is an important part of the hobby. Don't spend all of your time building new models. Take time to admire and show off your existing models.

Plastic Model Airplane Kits - How to Find & Buy the Best Kit

One of the most popular model building hobbies, especially among youngsters, is building a plastic model airplane. Many young boys enjoy spending their spare time building and collecting plastic model airplanes. It is not unusual to walk into a boy's room and find a couple of model airplanes proudly displayed on a book shelf or dresser.

Finding and buying the best plastic model airplane for yourself, or as a gift for someone else is not too difficult. The key factor in buying any one kit is making sure whoever is building the model plane has the skills to build it. Plastic model producers even help with this by placing the suggested age level on the packaging of the kits themselves.


The next concern when purchasing the best plastic model airplane is interest, meaning interest in a particular type of aircraft. There are kits replicating jet fighters and other military aircraft and there are kits that replicate commercial aircraft, from jet liners to flying trainers.

Some plastic model airplane builders have a liking for limited edition models and these may not always be so easy to find. This is especially true for collector type replicas. Hobby shops do carry them, but often they don't offer a wide range of choices. However, the internet provides site listings for a large number of model distributors, even those who specialize in strictly plastic model airplane kits.

Prices for these kits can vary widely, but is dependent on how detailed or simple the kit is. Also, brand name airplane kits are usually more expensive than off-brand names. But keep in mind a brand name producer will more than likely produce a higher quality model than an off brand will.

Some Basic Scale Aircraft Modelling Tools

There are a lot of people who want to know what kind of tools they need for scale model aircraft building. Every model builder have his or hers favorite set of tools, but here are a few that everybody is using on a regular basis:

• No model maker can do without a set of good knives and sprue cutters.
• A cutting mat or small cutting board is also essential.
• Less essential but still very useful is a hole making tool and some razor saws for cutting things that a knife can not do.
• Scissors for cutting decals and masking tape.
• Masking and other tapes in various sizes. These can be used to aid painting and/or holding parts together.
• Some tweezers to pick up and/or hold very tiny parts.
• Pegs and clamps to hold parts together.
• Fillers to fill holes and gaps and some spatulas to spread the filler with.
• Sanding stick to sand down any filler, smoothing rough or uneven surfaces or to polish with.
• A brush to remove dust.
• Different grit "Wet and Dry" sandpaper is very useful for sanding down filler and to give an extra smooth surface.
• Weights in various sizes to prevent planes from "tailsitting".
• Blu-Tack to hold small parts or for dry fitting part together. Blu-Tack is also used to hold weights in place.
• Rubber bands to hold parts together, elasticated thread for rigging and needles for making holes.
• Syringes and pipettes for measuring of thinners and other liquids.
• Cotton buds and cocktail sticks for applying glue, decal solutions, fillers or to hold parts for painting.
• Also excellent for cleaning and removing paint.
• Small plastic containers for water, brush cleaners or other liquids.
• Last but not least a good set of different shaped brushes!
• Finally for those who are into scratch building or more advanced scale model building, a mini drill is an excellent tool to do that. I hope I helped some people out with this list of tools that are useful for model building.

Scale Model Aircraft Building - Basics

The first, and most fundamental, thing is to pick something you like, that you are interested in. That way you will keep your motivation throughout the build process. If you pick, for example, a civil model, but your interest is in military aircraft, and you buy the model 'because it's the only one they had', or in your price range etc, then you will struggle to get motivation to start it, let alone finish it.

The second important thing is the skill level of the kit. This varies between manufacturers - some have a better reputation for parts fitment than others. Do your research on these before purchasing your first model airplane kit. The last thing you want is to spend your money on a kit that becomes too difficult to complete, or you lose your motivation due to bad parts fitment. Don't rush out and buy a kit that has all the bells and whistles as this will have an adverse affect, start with a basic model, with a low parts count.


So we are at the point where you have decided on the model subject, and selected the kit you are going to build, but what with? You need tools!

This is where things can start getting expensive - as there are unlimited tools available for the model maker. But remember, we are starting at the beginning with the basics. You need some cutters to remove the parts, a sharp knife or file to trim the parts, glue to hold it all together, and a paintbrush (or variety) for, obviously, painting. Next you will need some paints and appropriate thinners to clean your paintbrush.

Don't try to rush the process of building your model aircraft, you are more likely to make mistakes that way, and not enjoy it. This is a hobby at the end of the day - you are meant to enjoy it.

So now it's time to start. You have your model, you have your tools, and you have your paints. You may have seen this kit that other people have built. The last thing you want to do is try to copy them, or compare your work with theirs. This will only lead to frustration and negativity if the results you get don't look as good. It doesn't matter, your enjoyment and satisfaction in what you have done is the only important thing.

So let's get to work. Start off by studying the instructions, and finding the parts on the sprues. Familiarise yourself with how the manufacturer has drawn the diagrams, and instructs you to put it all together. Go through the whole manual so you are familiar with it, and how each section fits together. If you follow the instructions step-by-step you shouldn't run into too many difficulties, but you need to understand what they want you to do before you put the glue to it. Once you are familiar with the instructions, take each section at a time. You will likely find that each section has a number of parts in it.

It is generally recommended that you wash all the parts before you start. When they are made, a release agent is used to easily take the parts out of the moulds. You want to remove this, as it can stop the glue and paint sticking correctly. Use warm soapy water for this, and rinse it off properly. Don't use hot water as this can distort the plastic. Normal dish washing soap is fine for this.

Any parts that become one structure, such as an engine block, can be assembled before painting. Other, smaller parts, you may find easier to paint while still on the sprue.

Carefully cut the parts off the sprue with either a pair of side cutters or a sharp knife. The use either the knife or file to smooth the point of removal. You are then ready to glue. There are a variety of glues available, but we will assume you are using basic polystyrene cement. This glue works by melting the plastic parts together creating a strong weld. This glue only works properly if the parts are clean and free of grease and paint.

Before applying any glue, check how the parts fit together (dry fit) as a test run so you are familiar with any attachment points that require glue, and how to fit the parts. This will prevent any mistakes being made by having to redo after gluing.

Use something like an old CD, or milk bottle top to put a little bit of glue into. Then use something small and pointy to apply the glue. Cocktail sticks are ideal for this, but equally you can use a pin etc. Get a small amount of glue on your stick and then apply this to the joining edge of one part. Then put the parts together. You will have a bit of time to move the parts to fit correctly if needed, but then leave the parts for the glue to fully set.

When it comes to painting, there are a few more things you need to know. Firstly, there are different types of paint that react with the plastic and each other differently. This is commonly referred to as the strength. So for example, Acrylic paints are mild. You can use these over bare plastic and other paints with no reactions. They are generally easy to use and easy to clean up after. I would recommend these as the paints to use when starting out. The next common paint in modelling is Enamel. These generally come in small metal pots. These can react with acrylic paints, and plastic if not used correctly, so a plastic primer is recommended before using these. You can use Acrylics over these with no problems once they have fully dried. The next paint type is Lacquer. These again will react with the acrylic paints and plastic, but also with enamels as well. These should be reserved for painting areas that other paints generally won't be used, like the body of a car. Again, you can use acrylics or enamels over these with no problems.

With painting, the important thing is to get an even coverage. If the paint you use doesn't quite cover the area and you can see the colour of either the plastic or paint below, know as bleed through, wait for it to dry and add another coat. Remember, it is better to apply a number of thin coats that one thick coat. Familiarise yourself with the paints you are using and their respective drying times. Don't try to go back to a part that is still drying as you will end up in a mess. If necessary, leave it until the next day before you proceed. This requires patience, but rushing causes mistakes. Any attachment points need to be free of paint. If you have any paint on that area, carefully remove it with either the tip of your knife or a file before applying the glue to get a nice strong joint. If you have painted the part on the sprue, then touch it up before attaching it to hide this.

The last thing you may have in the box is the decal sheet. To some, these can be the difference between a nice clean model aircraft, and one that ends up in the bin, but that doesn't need to be the case. Cut the decal from the sheet using your knife, or a pair of scissors, and then put the decal sheet to one side. Place you decal into some warm water for a few seconds until all of the backing paper has fully absorbed water. Then remove it and lay it on a flat surface. You may find that it has curled up at this point. This is normal. Leave it for 30-60 seconds and you should see this flatten out. Once this has happened it should be ready to use. Rub your finger over it and ensure the decal moves freely on the backing paper. Put the backing paper roughly in the area you want to apply the decal. Carefully hold the decal in place with your finger and slide the backing paper from under it. You can then position the decal exactly where it needs to be. Once you have it positioned, use a tissue or soft cloth to remove any excess water and then leave it to fully dry. If you have a lot of decals to apply, it's an idea to do them in stages to avoid damaging them.

So that's it. You are ready to build your first scale model aircraft. Remember, don't rush it and most importantly enjoy yourself.

So You've Decided to Take Up Scale Model Aircraft Building?

A guest post by Roland Cisco

After years of the 9 to 5 work day grind and the endless hours of boredom,  I decided to take up a hobby I did long ago and previously lost time to pursue. Now that I have the time, I've invigorated my hobby of building scale aircraft models from plastic kits.

I chose plastic mostly because it was readily available, and there was a vast and expansive amount of kits to be built. I just never dreamed I'd end up spending the amount of money for the "stuff" you need to absolutely do it right.

Some of the materials include small tools, files, knives, brushes, tapes, maskings, table top space, lighting, and a camera to record the beautiful job you completed. I also invested in an "ok" airbrush, and now have 5 to choose from including single action and dual action. I have a compressor, chalk for weathering, various washes for rust creation and of course Future Floor Wax for making application of so many additional things to a finished model. Then there are the hundreds of bottles of both acrylic paints and enamels for that perfect color need.


It may seem like there a lot of supplies to get started in scale modeling, but you'll love every minute of this time spent at the construction table! For those considering the hobby of model building, my advice is to start with some inexpensive model kits, some brushes, paint, good light and comfortable chair, and just dive in. You will find your first builds will be just that and first builds will probably find their way to the trash can. After the third or fourth build,  you will see some really good quality emerging and that's when you'll invest in your first air brush. The fun really starts with an air brush in hand!

The first thing you should do is develop a methodology of removing the parts from the sprue sets where you clip the pieces free, and find the best method of removing any excess plastic still remaining on the piece. This can be accomplished with such simple things as smooth finger nail Emory boards or the edge of an Exacto knife blade.

Once your parts are removed, cleaned and you're ready to build a section or area of a model, develop a comfortable method of applying the glue. Some use a toothpick for small dots and some people buy the glues with the thin needle applicator. You'll become comfortable with one and will probably stick with it forever. After gluing, you'll do some painting and be well on your way. There are so many countless ways to improve this hobby, and with time and research, you'll get more and more information online to enhance your skills. This is high level overview of my experience as there are countless other things to do to make a model a real quality one of a kind piece. This is a good place to start and get your feet wet in this rewarding hobby.

In conclusion, if you've got the interest in a great hobby with wonderful people all over the world and a willingness to exchange ideas, definitely explore scale model aircraft building. There are endless possibilities for you and many forums on the internet for help and improving your technique. You'll also find you'll make countless friends in the process.

The Art of Building Plastic Model Airplanes - Part 3 of 3

Great movie
 

The Art of Building Plastic Model Airplanes - Part 2 of 3

Very useful pieces of information