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Modelling is a fulfilling hobby that is taken up by lots of people every single year. For every single purchase of someone’s first model, there will always be that difficult choice: What kit would be best for someone who is just getting started? Don’t worry, we've got your back. We’re here to talk about the best kits and tools for beginners and newbies alike. Let’s get right into it!
Summary
- What is a Plastic Model Kit?
- Top 3 Model Kits For Beginners
- Top 3 Must Have Model Tools and Supplies
- Watch the Video
What is a Plastic Model Kit?
A plastic model kit is a kit containing scale models of cars, ships, planes, trains, and pop culture replicas. There are varying degrees of difficulty when assembling a model. Some models can be put together by simply snapping the pieces together, while others need to be carefully constructed using specialised equipment and materials.
The Top 3 Model Kits for Beginners
The best thing about hobbies is the way we slowly fall in love with them. It's the start of a passion for the hobby! In order for that to happen, a great start is a must. As a beginner modeller, finding the ideal kit and tools will ensure that you will be off to a great start and find the hobby enjoyable in the long run.
What scale would be ideal as a first time model?
A good scale range for aviation model starter kits is 48 to 72. The 72 scale would be suitable for larger aircraft like bombers or twin-engine fighters. A 48 scale would be suitable for single-engine fighters and other similar types of aircraft. The most important thing is that a kit, especially a beginner's one, should be engaging in a way that is not overwhelming; not too complicated or difficult.
- Boeing B-47 Stratojet - 72 scale
The Boeing B-47 Stratojet was an American nuclear bomber built for high-altitude, subsonic flight. Its main duty was to strike targets in the Soviet Union and it served as a reconnaissance aircraft during the Cold War.
It is the perfect simple model kit for beginners and young ones! There aren’t a lot of complicated details on its exterior, and it doesn’t have a lot of protruding parts that might make painting it difficult. The paint job is straightforward, consisting mostly of dull metallic colours and little bits of black here and there. Although you'll need to add some extra colours to paint the landing gear, it's nothing too complicated. It's best to keep things interesting and simple for beginners, and this model definitely fits that bill. The B-47 can also serve as a starting point for beginners to explore with the early stages of panel washes to highlight the details on the wings and fuselage.
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- Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star - 48 scale
The Lockheed T-33 Shooting Star was an American aircraft that served as an advanced trainer, predominantly used during the 1960s. Aside from being an advanced trainer for the F-80 Shooting Star, it was also used for tasks like drone director and target towing.
The T-33 is a 48-scale streamlined model. It is predominantly one colour and has minimal amounts of paint work needed. The majority of the details are incorporated through decal application. If you need a simple model and find the B-47 too big for your own liking, then this model is for you.
- Gloster Meteor FR.9 - 48 scale
The Gloster Meteor FR.9 is a first-generation fighter jet. It served as a photo reconnaissance aircraft and a ground attacker for the Royal Air Force during World War II.
If you’ve finished one or two models, and you’re still looking for something that is basic enough, then the Meteor FR.9 might be for you. The Gloster Meteor is a first-generation fighter that has a lot of variants. Because of this, it employs simple camouflage patterns and is primarily one colour with minimal amounts of details you have to paint in, much like the B-47. This makes it very beginner-friendly and can help in building up the confidence of first-time modellers once they get to see their own progress. This progress is very empowering for first-timers, and it encourages them to take the next step and gradually get more involved with modelling.
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If you are looking into brands that make great kits for beginners, then it’ll be worth checking out the following brands: Italeri, Airfix, and—if you have a bit of money to spare—Hasegawa and Eduard.
Must Have Model Tools and Supplies for Beginners
Choosing the best kit is not the only thing you have to think about when purchasing for a beginner; finding the right tools that can help them is just as important. Here are the essential things a beginner MUST HAVE when starting modelling:
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A good pair of snips
NINESTEPS is an excellent beginner-friendly brand. What better way to start off our list by featuring their good ole’ pair of snips as the first product. NINESTEPS Essential Side Cutter is a handy pair of scissors you can easily use to cut off pieces of mouldings. These nippers are easy to grip, with blades that give a nice, clean cut.
Tip: You don’t have to press really hard when cutting through. All you need to do is gently squeeze as you’re cutting the pieces and it does the job for you. The blades will last much longer this way.
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After cutting off the mouldings, usually there are little bits of plastic left on the mould here and there, so once you’ve glued it together, you’ll need a sanding block to get a nice, smooth texture.
NINESTEPS Essential Sanding Block is a great option that can last for ages. It comes in two sizes: one large and one small. The smaller ones are better for beginners to get used to sanding blocks and are, overall, an ideal starting tool for first-time modellers.
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Lastly, this list wouldn’t be complete without a glue recommendation. So, here it is:
REVELL Contacta Professional Cement is a definite must-have on this list. It’s an excellent glue choice for those that are just starting on modelling and those that have been doing it for a long time. The viscosity of this is just right—not too thick, not too runny. It’s got good consistency that makes it easy for beginners to manage. It has a needle-nose applicator that you can use to control the glue application and can get into very fine points where the pieces fit together.
Tip: The glue tends to dry up inside the applicator and clog it, but do not worry, you don't have to buy a new one. Simply place a lighter or match beneath the needle applicator until a small flame goes out. Put out the flame, allow it to cool for a few seconds, and you can use it again.
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Watch and learn!
Are you looking for a unique gift for your child, niece, or nephew? Watch this! Dan listed the best model kits and essential tools for younger blokes that will definitely put a huge smile on their adorable faces!
Have any tips up your sleeve? Feel free to share it with us at hh@hearnshobbies.com!
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