How to Build Toy Models

Choose the correct kit level for your expertise.

Toy models come in many different forms. They can be bought in the shape of cars, trains and planes. There are also model replicas of buildings and landscape features. Models are commonly made of plastic and, less commonly, wood. Hobby shops carry large selections of models. Large craft stores or department stores may carry a smaller selection. Read the model box carefully to determine whether the kit requires glue or paint.

Things You'll Need

• Model kit
• Newspaper
• Fine grit sand paper
• Thin paint brush
• Model paint primer, if needed
• Model paint, if needed
• Model glue, if needed
• Roll of paper towels

Instructions

1. Choose your model kit. Each kit differs in appearance and difficulty. Choose a model that appeals to you. Once you find the one you want, check the box for the model's skill level. A beginner should start with an easy model. These pieces may snap together and require neither glue nor paint. Experienced model builders can choose more difficult models that contain more pieces.

2. Cover your work area. Place a piece of newspaper on the surface where you plan to build the model. Model glue and paint is difficult to remove from furniture and flooring.

3. Remove the pieces. Pieces are often attached to a frame of plastic. Gently twist each piece to remove it from the plastic. Each piece will have a number. Lay out the pieces in chronological order on your work space.

4. Sand the nub. There may be a small plastic nub where the piece attached to the plastic frame. Rub the sand paper gently over the nub until it's flush with the edge of the piece.

5. Prime each piece. Use the paint brush to apply a thin coating of primer on each piece. Read the primer directions for drying time. This is unnecessary for factory-painted models.

6. Paint each piece. Apply a thin coat of paint to each piece. Choose the colors according to the model's directions or paint it however you choose. Allow the pieces to dry. If needed, apply a second coat of paint to each piece. Again, this is unnecessary for factory-painted models.

7. Build the model. Follow the kit's directions. The pieces may snap together on easier skill-level models. More advanced models will require using glue to attach the pieces.

8. Wipe any excess glue. When gluing pieces of the model, use a dry paper towel to immediately wipe any glue that seeps out.

9. Set aside the model in a spot where it won't be disturbed. Follow the model glue's directions for drying times.

Tips & Warnings

• Display your models. Models take time to build and can break easily. An ideal place to display models is upon a high shelf or inside a glass-enclosed showcase.

• Always open a window when working with model glue. Model glue is toxic when inhaled without any ventilation.

References

• Quality Hobby Shop: Model Building

Resources

• Jet Planes: Plastic Model Kit Building