Common Scale Sizes

Scale Ratio Typical Uses Advantages
1:12 1 inch = 1 ft Dollhouses, furniture models High detail, easy to handle
1:24 1/2 inch = 1 ft Miniature vehicles, buildings Good detail, compact size
1:35 Military scale Military vehicles, figures Popular for military modeling
1:48 Aircraft scale Aircraft models, architecture Compact, detailed
1:72 Small aircraft & vehicles Efficient size for collections Space saving, widely available
1:87 (HO) Model trains Railroad layouts Popular in train modeling
1:144 Miniature figures Miniatures, wargaming Very small, portable

Essential Tools & Supplies

Tool/Material Purpose Notes
Hobby Knife Cutting, trimming parts Replace blades often
Tweezers Handling small pieces Fine tip recommended
Cutting Mat Protect work surface Self-healing
Plastic Cement/Glue Bonding plastic parts Use sparingly for neat work
Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate) Bonds various materials Quick drying
Paint Brushes Detailing and painting Multiple sizes, fine tips
Airbrush Smooth, even paint application Optional for advanced modelers
Model Paints Acrylics, enamels Matte, gloss, weathering colours
Files and Sandpaper Smoothing edges and seams Various grits

Model Assembly Tips

Step Tips
Read Instructions Review all steps before starting
Test Fit Parts Dry-fit before gluing
Clean Parts Remove mold lines and flash
Use Minimal Glue Prevent messy joints
Work in Subassemblies Build complex parts separately
Allow Drying Time Let glue cure before handling

Painting Techniques

Technique Description Tools/Materials
Priming Base coat for paint adhesion Spray primer, brush-on primer
Base Coating Apply main colour Brushes, airbrush
Detail Painting Fine details and accents Fine brushes
Dry Brushing Highlight raised details Dry brush with minimal paint
Washing Add shadows and depth Thinned paint wash
Weathering Simulate wear, dirt, and rust Weathering powders, paints
Sealing Protect paint job Matte or gloss varnish

Common Materials for Models

Material Description Use Cases
Polystyrene Plastic Most common for injection kits Vehicles, aircraft, figures
Resin Detailed, for specialty parts Figures, aftermarket details
Metal (White Metal) Durable, used for miniatures Small figures, wargaming
Wood For architectural and ship models Bases, structural parts
Photo-Etched Parts Thin metal detail parts Fine details, grills, panels

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Problem Cause Solution
Glue fogging clear parts Using super glue on clear plastic Use plastic cement or avoid contact
Paint chipping Poor surface prep or no primer Sand, prime, and seal properly
Seam lines visible Improper sanding Sand and fill gaps
Parts not fitting Mold inaccuracies or warping Adjust parts with sanding or filling
Uneven paint finish Improper thinning or spraying Thin paint properly, practice spraying

Storage & Display Tips

Tip Advice
Dust Protection Use display cases or covers
Avoid Direct Sunlight Prevent fading and warping
Stable Shelving Keep models secure and level
Handle with Care Use clean hands or gloves
Regular Cleaning Use soft brushes or compressed air