What tools do I need?
The all-important question. Here’s a small run-down of some stuff I consider most essential when starting out modelmaking.
With time, this will expand to include some more stuff, but that is something you learn from experience.
Regarding airbrushes, you most definitely don’t need one to start out or even to make good models.
The tools #
X-Acto knife #
You will need this to cut parts off the sprue and clean up rough edges
I suggest one with a #11 blade and a metal handle. You can get a pack of 100 blades on eBay for ~10$ Link
Sprue cutters #
Not completely essential to get started, but they’re nice to have. They are like wire cutters (which you can also use, but it’s not too recommended), but one side is completely flat. This will help you get the parts of the sprue cleanly with minimal breakage.
Fingernail/toenail clippers work very well if you don’t want to spend money on a separate tool (/u/Maxrdt)
Model glue #
There are two types of this. The thick kind with an applicator or thin one with a brush.
Tamiya extra thin cement is probably the best glue you can find and the one which most people recommend; Thread on how to use it. I suggest that you get both eventually.
The ticker one will come in handy when dealing with large pieces and it’s setting time is longer, while Extra Thin is nice with smaller parts and hard to reach places (Note – the setting time of this one is extremely short)
I suggest Revell professional for the „thicker“ and, of course, Tamiya extra-thin for the thin kind
Superglue #
Use it only when using PE (photoetch) parts and even then USE WITH CARE)
This is for glueing non-styrene parts on the model, such as metal, resin, or fabrics.
The fumes from CA glue will fog clear plastic parts (such as cockpits)
PVA glue #
Wood glue is used for gluing the canopy in place since normal modelling glue will fog clear parts Example
Sandpaper and/or sanding sticks. #
This is for smoothing and shaping surfaces on the model. For the best results, use wet-or-dry sandpaper and rinse it often with clean water.
A few gradients are always good to have. I use 800,1000 and 1200, from rougher to finer, but if you’re tight on the budget you can only use 800 and/or 1000
Tip on how to make it last longer & more efficient
Putty #
Very handy tool
Brushes #
I suggest a large flat one (for large areas), a fine (0 size or smaller) and a small-to-medium one for starters.
Just don’t get the “12 piece for 1€” set.
Ask in your local artist’s shop for what they recommend. It’s important depending on if you’re using acrylic or enamel paints.
Tweezers for holding small parts. #
Masking tape #
Tamiya masking tape (for fine edges) and generic painters tape (for big areas) are recommended
Miscellaneous stuff #
Cloth pegs #
Bottle caps (Milk jug, beer, soda; anything works) #
The most versatile object in my workshop. I use it for putting a small amount of thinner/water to clean brushes; it’s very nice for mixing paints and washes and can be used as a holder for small parts
Surgical rubber gloves #
They look cool and are useful when painting so that your hands can stay clean
And of course, paints which will be covered later on.