Essential tools for assembling models?

[pattyg]

Ok, newbie question here. I've not done a model kit for around 30 years so a little out of practice. Anyway, I'm going to buy and start my first model soon.

What tools, extras, will I need to buy that are not included in the kit. Remember, essentials only as I'm not sure if I will get into this or not. Also, where is the best place to buy tools and indeed models.

Thanks in advance.

[perdu]

Not such an easy question to answer

Basic tools I'd advise are a modelling/craft knife (I've been using the same small brass Swann Morton knife since the very early sixties)

Tweezers (pointy nose is good)

Small/needle files (flat, round, half round and a triangular needle files does most work for me)

Wet and dry finishing paper

paint of your choice with brushes

Glue

and if you get into it nicely, a modelling filler such as Green Stuff or Humbrol for basic tidying up work

And me

I need reading glasses too these days, life gets more awkward sometimes

There's more, much much more but keep it simple at first

You dont need files etc except to finish off the basic cut off parts

(I spent years not cleaning up before I glued the bits together)

[V8FGO]

Hobbycraft have tools and a small selection of models.
Most model shops have gone now, killed off by internet traders.

That said you have Hannants which are the largest in UK.

There are also

http://www.relishmodels.co.uk/
https://www.wonderlandmodels.com/
https://www.emodels.co.uk/

I tend to use electrical side cutters for removing parts from sprues.
but you can use a scalpel as Perdu says, No.10 or 11 blade.

Cocktail sticks from Poundshop for paint mixing and spotting, also for small
spots of glue.

Files as above, pick up some emery boards for sanding.
Flat and point ended tweezers, paper masking tape (low tac) for dry fitting of parts and also
to help bind as glue sets.Tamiya tape is better for paint masking
Cheap plastic clothes pegs to clamp small parts when painting.

[dr_gn]

For the basics I'd go with:

Scissors - Cutting larger parts from sprues & cutting out decals.

Swann-Morton #11 scalpel blades and holder - cutting parts from sprues, trimming parts etc..

Fine point tweezers - Holding small parts and decals.

Squadron Sanding Sticks - Fine and Medium sanding runner gates, removing flash etc.

Glue - Revell liquid cement is a good compromise, although tube glue is fine.

Small & medium paint brushes - Decent quality, but don't spend too much.

Cocktail sticks - Cheap, and useful for applying glue, positioning decals & holding things for painting.

Filler - optional, but I'm currently using Perfect Plastic Putty from Deluxe - fine, quick drying and water soluble.

Tamiya Masking Tape - Obvious, but it's the best available IME.

BluTack - Very useful for holding small components while painting, and as a paint mask.

Also, use good quality paints & thinners. If you're brush painting I'd recommend the Vallejo range in conjunction with a retarder medium applied over a thin coat of Tamiya Fine Surface Primer spray. Use a varnish to overcoat - Humbrol Spray #49 is what I use for matt. I've tried Tamiya, Humbrol and Revell Aqua, but none of these have been anywhere near as good as Vallejo for brushing. If you're building road cars, you really need to spray them.

ETA Little-Cars will supply you with decent quality stuff at a decent price (no connection other than being a satisfied customer):

http://www.modellingtools.co.uk/general-modelling-...

Edited by dr_gn on Monday 28th September 12:53