The general flow of plastic model making

The basic process for making a plastic model is as follows:

1. Check the parts
2. Cut the parts out of the runner
3. Assemble the parts
4. Finish with paint or stickers
5. Display your work

First, check for any missing parts. Then, carefully cut out the parts from the frame called the runner. After assembling the parts, finish with paint or stickers. Once completed, display it.

What you need to make a plastic model

To build a plastic model, you need a variety of tools. We will explain them in detail.

Nippers

Nippers are used to cut parts from the runners. If you try to cut them with regular scissors, the parts may become deformed, so be sure to bring nippers with you. There are several types of nippers, such as thin-bladed nippers and modeler's nippers, and using the appropriate type depending on the purpose will result in a cleaner cut.

Recently, plastic models have been released that allow you to remove parts without using nippers. With these types, you can remove the parts with your bare hands. Decide whether you need nippers based on the plastic model you want to build.

Cutting Mat

A cutting mat is a mat that prevents scratches on the table while you work. To prevent scratches, it is best to work on a cutting mat when creating plastic models.

Cutting mats come in a variety of sizes. Choose one that suits your work environment and the size of the plastic model you are making. Also, cutting mats with guides such as grids or circular lines on the surface will help you work smoothly.

tweezers

Tweezers are useful when gluing small parts together or applying stickers. While you can do the job without them, they are necessary for a neat finish.

Get tweezers with as thin a tip as possible. Tweezers come in straight types as well as curved types. Having multiple types of tweezers is convenient as you can use them depending on the situation. They can be purchased at hardware stores and craft stores.

Design knife

A design knife is used to process gates that cannot be cut with nippers alone. A gate is the joint between the frame and the part. It is also useful when cutting out small parts. It is easier to hold and work with than a regular cutter knife. It is useful when you want to cut small parts.

Because it has a sharp blade, be careful when using it and make sure there are no small children around. When the blade becomes dull, it needs to be replaced.

File

Sandpaper is used to remove unnecessary parts and smooth the surface. There are various types, such as metal and waterproof paper. Using the right type of sandpaper is important to give your plastic model a beautiful finish.

The fineness of the file's grit is expressed as a "grit" such as 100 or 200. The smaller the number, the coarser the grit, and the larger the number, the finer the grit. You can achieve a smooth finish by preparing files of multiple grits and gradually increasing the grit size.

glue

Glue is essential for assembling plastic models. Prepare a plastic model glue can with a brush attached to the lid. There are many different types of glue, so it's important to choose the right one depending on what you're gluing together. Some glues are made with safe materials.

Also, if you are not used to making things, you may accidentally damage a part while working. In such cases, you can repair it with super glue.

Painting tools

Prepare painting tools for plastic models according to the painting method. There are also different types of paint. We will explain in detail below.

Painting method

There are three ways to paint plastic models: brush painting, airbrush painting, and spray painting.

Brush painting is a method of painting using a brush. It is easy even for beginners, but you should work carefully as it can easily result in unevenness. Airbrush painting is a method of compressing air and spraying paint using that pressure. It can paint even small details neatly. Spray can painting is a method of painting using a spray can, and can be used to paint large areas.

The painting method you choose should be based on the purpose of the painting. Prepare the necessary tools for each painting method.

paint

Commonly used paints for plastic models include lacquer, acrylic, and enamel.

Lacquer paint spreads well and dries quickly. However, it has an odor, so be sure to ventilate the area when working. If the smell of lacquer paint bothers you, we recommend acrylic paint. Acrylic paint has little odor, and you can wash off any paint that gets on your tools with water before it dries. Enamel paint is also less likely to bleed unevenly when applied with a brush. However, it takes longer to dry.

The benefits of using an airbrush to paint plastic models

As mentioned above, there are several painting methods for plastic models. Among them, airbrush painting has particular advantages. Because it uses fine particles, it is possible to paint evenly and beautifully. It can also create beautiful gradations that are difficult to achieve with brush painting.

In addition, with an airbrush, you can use paints that are mixed to match the image of the plastic model, allowing you to create a work that is meticulous down to the finest details.

RAYWOOD is the place to go for all the tools you need for airbrush painting

RAYWOOD is a company that operates airbrush and RC car businesses. They sell a wide range of tools for airbrush painting, helping you gather all the essentials for creating plastic models. RAYWOOD also founded the airbrush brand "PROFIX," which offers a wide range of products that are easy to use and produce beautiful paints. They also carry handpieces, paints, and various accessories, so be sure to check them out.

Q&A about plastic model building

Here we will introduce some frequently asked questions and answers about building plastic models.

Can I get everything I need for production at a 100 yen store?

Small items such as scissors, cutters, and files needed to make plastic models can be purchased at 100 yen shops. However, as mentioned above, painting tools such as airbrushes and paints are also needed to make plastic models. Not everything you need can be purchased at 100 yen shops. Some items are difficult to purchase unless you go to a specialty store.

Is airbrush painting possible for beginners?

Some airbrush painting tools are easy to use and allow you to achieve beautiful finishes even in small details. Therefore, even beginners can use an airbrush. However, depending on the person, it may take some time to work until you get used to the preparation and operation.

If you're unsure, try brush painting, which is easy even for beginners. Once you get the hang of it, try airbrush painting.

summary

To create a plastic model, you will need the various items introduced here. In order to finish your plastic model beautifully, make sure you have all the tools before you start working. There are several ways to paint plastic models, but airbrush painting allows for more detailed and beautiful expressions.

RAYWOOD sells many of the tools necessary for airbrush painting. We offer high-quality products at reasonable prices. We also have a customer support system in place, so even beginners can start airbrush painting with confidence. Please make use of our products to create high-quality airbrush painting projects.

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