Introduction to Scale Modelling

Scale modelling is a popular hobby that involves creating detailed, miniature replicas of various subjects, such as aircraft, ships, cars, and buildings. Enthusiasts of all ages enjoy this hobby for its combination of artistry, craftsmanship, and historical appreciation. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your skills, understanding the basics of scale modelling is essential.

Basic Tools for Scale Modelling

Before you start building, it’s important to have the right tools. While you can get by with a few basic items, having a well-equipped toolbox can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you’ll need:

  1. Cutting Tools:
  2. Sanding Tools:
    • Sandpaper/Files: Various grades of sandpaper or sanding sticks are used to smooth surfaces and remove mold lines.
    • Needle Files: Small, precise files useful for detailed work in tight spaces.
  3. Adhesives:
    • Plastic Cement: Special glue that melts and fuses plastic parts together.
    • Super Glue (CA glue): Useful for bonding different materials and small, fragile parts. You can also buy Superglue in Gel form which is ideal for working with Photo Etch parts.
    • PVA Glue: Ideal for clear parts, such as canopies, as it dries clear and doesn’t fog the plastic.
  4. Tweezers and Clamps:
  5. Rulers and Measuring Tools:
    • Ruler/Scale: For precise measurements. I find a set of cheap calipers an absolute necessity for model building.
    • Pin Vise: A small hand drill for creating holes and detailing.
  6. Painting Supplies:
    • Brushes: A variety of sizes for detail work and broad coverage. Brushes are one of those necessities that you should not try and save on, having said that there are a lot of really expensive brushed out there as well as some really bad ones, there are lot of mid-range brushes too which are ideal for starting out and will not break the bank.
    • Airbrush and Compressor: An airbrush is an essential tool for smooth, even paint application and expert finishes .

Once you have built up a collection of necessary tools you will find it handy to store them all within easy reach. This drawer organizer is fantastic for keeping your brushes, tweezers, files and all the rest nicely grouped by type or size!

Painting Scale Models

Painting is a crucial step in bringing your scale model to life. It enhances the details and gives your model a realistic appearance. There are two main methods of painting: brush painting and airbrushing.

Brush Painting

Brush painting is often the first method beginners use. It’s straightforward and doesn’t require much setup. Brushes come in various sizes and shapes, allowing for detailed work on small parts and broader strokes for larger surfaces. While it’s possible to achieve excellent results with brushes, it’s more challenging to get a smooth, even finish, especially on larger surfaces.

Airbrushing

Airbrushing is a more advanced technique that uses an air-powered tool to spray paint onto the model. It offers a range of benefits over brush painting, especially for larger models or areas that require a flawless finish.

Advantages of Airbrushing Over Brush Painting
  1. Smooth Finish: Airbrushing provides a consistent, smooth finish without brush strokes, which is difficult to achieve with traditional brushes.
  2. Even Coverage: It allows for even coverage over large surfaces, ensuring a more professional look.
  3. Fine Detail: Airbrushes can apply very fine, controlled layers of paint, ideal for shading, highlighting, and other detailed effects.
  4. Efficiency: Airbrushing can cover large areas quickly, saving time on larger projects.
  5. Versatility: You can adjust the paint flow and pressure, allowing for different effects such as fades, gradients, and camouflaging.

See our dedicated page on Airbrushes and compressors here.

Types of Model Paints

Choosing the right paint for your model is crucial for achieving the desired finish and durability. There are several types of paints used in scale modelling, each with its own characteristics, pros, and cons.

Acrylic Paints

Acrylic paints are water-based and known for being user-friendly, especially for beginners. They are non-toxic, easy to clean up with water, and dry relatively quickly. Here are some popular brands:

  • Vallejo: Widely respected for their extensive range of colors and high-quality pigments.
  • AK Interactive: Known for their realism-focused paints and weathering products.
  • MIG Ammo: Offers a variety of colors and weathering products, designed specifically for scale models.
  • Revell: A classic brand that offers acrylic paints in a variety of shades.

Lacquer Paints

Lacquer paints are solvent-based and provide a hard, durable finish. They dry quickly and offer excellent coverage but require proper ventilation due to their strong fumes. They are favored by more experienced modellers for their superior finish, especially on metal surfaces. Some popular brands include:

  • MRP (Mr. Paint): Known for their pre-thinned lacquers that are ready to use straight from the bottle.
  • Alclad II: Specialized in metallic finishes, Alclad paints are perfect for replicating metal surfaces like engine exhausts, bare metal aircraft, and other metallic details.

Applying Decals and Weathering Your Scale Model

(To be completed later)

This overview should provide you with a solid foundation to start your journey into scale modelling. With practice and patience, you’ll be able to create detailed and realistic models that you can be proud of.