Getting Started

Choosing a Kit and Outside Materials

Starting out your modeling journey is easier than it might seem. Just pick out a beginner-friendly kit that appeals to you- something that aligns with your interests and you will enjoy working on. Many first-timers choose a simple themed structure or room, or even a character they like. For a beginner who isn't interested much in modifying builds themselves yet, there isn't much outside material required. A craft knife, tweezers, some sandpaper, and a craft mat should be fine for your first build. Some sets may required your own glue or paint, but many do not. Other tools are also often included with kits, so it shouldn't be a big deal to pick things up as you go. Go slow, take your time, and follow the instructions carefully. Don't rush yourself, it's all about enjoying the process and learning as you go. Even if you make mistakes, just take it as a learning experience and correct for the future.

One of the best parts of modeling is how much you can learn with each build. You pick up skills like cutting, assembling, organizing parts, reading diagrams, and improvisation. Over time, you should be able to gain confidence to try more detailed kits or work towards creating or modifying builds with your own designs. It's an extremely rewarding feeling to look at a completed project and see how you've built it yourself, piece by piece. If you are worried about your supplies after trying to get a bit more advanced, I've added a helpful YouTube video for beginners below that goes over both some of the supplies mentioned here and more.