How to Build Model Buildings

Many architects, enthusiasts and plain old hobbyists love to design and build model buildings. Model buildings come in a variety of forms, and they can be based on ancient, classic, contemporary or even futuristic designs. Model buildings can be made using a variety of materials, from paper and cardboard to wood and even metal. They're lots of fun to build and decorate, particularly when you add landscaping to the final design.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Building materials (varies by design and model type)
• Model-specific construction tools, such as hammer, glue and nails

Build Model Buildings

1. Choose the scale at which you want to build your model buildings. This is particularly important if you plan on using your buildings for model wargaming. The most popular scale is 25 mm, although some games are slightly above that scale at roughly 32 mm.

2. Read the instructions that are included with your model building carefully. If you are building the model from scratch, plan out the design you wish to create prior to beginning construction so you know what steps are necessary ahead of time.

3. Use a sturdy base for your model buildings. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) is one of the best materials for bases, since it is very durable and lightweight. Cardboard is undependable since the corners bend and become spoiled with only minor damage.

4. Prep each element prior to construction. If you plan on having true windows (not painted on to the exterior), then cut and complete them now so that you don't have to do it once the walls are glued to the base.

5. Glue the foundation and primary pieces to the base before adding additional pieces. This will give your model the strength it needs to maintain its shape throughout the construction process.

6. Give your model building a landscape. Add sand to create the illusion of dirt, and paint a river or creek near the building. There are materials available for advanced modelers that allow for the creation of realistic-looking rivers, trees and even cobblestones.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider bracing the interiors of your buildings with some form of reinforcement. Some model builders use wooden struts that are placed diagonally from the top of the building to the opposite side at the bottom. This provides a little boost in structural support.

• Allow glue to fully set before handling the different pieces. Model buildings rely on their inherent strength to stand, so touching or manipulating them before they have had a chance to set can compromise the foundations or walls by weakening them.

• Be careful when building models with or around young children, as some building materials could be hazardous and some pieces could pose a choking hazard.

Resources

• Scale model listings at Scalemodel.net