Hobbies And Interests
Things You'll Need
Instructions
Preparing the Parts
Buy a Gundam model kit that's appropriate for your level of experience. Ask experienced modelers or Gundam merchandisers for purchasing advice. Some models are easy to complete (typically beginner level or toys), while others are extremely difficult.
Confirm that all of the sheet parts and accessories are in the kit.
Prime or pre-paint by hand, air or spray brush at your discretion. Dry the paint 12 to 24 hours or until it's no longer tacky.
Use craft snips to remove the plastic or metal parts from the sheets. If twisting part with fingers or flat-edge pliers, gently rotate right to left until the thin connector breaks.
Organize the pieces into piles based on the construction sequence noted in kit instructions.
File, sand or shave down leftover part connectors so part edges are smooth.
Constructing and Decorating the Pieces
Use adhesive to create a solid bond between parts to form pieces. Some parts, typically those used to make legs and weaponry, have "snaps" to aid in bonding. Dry snap those parts together to confirm that they fit and look like the box. Unsnap and apply a small droplet of adhesive to the snap for a stronger bond.
Improve the model's appearance by highlighting the groove lines on bonded pieces with ink pens or through the application of rub-on or etch decals. Use clear tape to hold decal paper in place while rubbing as decals often tear, appear uneven or bubble when moved. Correct any mistakes with a white art eraser, craft knife or fingernail. Allow 30 minutes to dry.
Paint unpainted Gundam parts and bonded pieces to match the box or personal taste as many hard-to-reach visible areas will exist once you begin layering parts and pieces. Attempts to paint these areas after final construction will cause paint to splatter on the model.
Adhere your desired stickers and "wet" decals or wait until the model is constructed. Place the decal on the tip of your finger and dip it into water, then apply it firmly to your bonded piece. Use tweezers to reposition. Gently dab the decal with a paper towel to remove excess water.
Final Construction
Bond all completed piece and dry thoroughly.
Touch up paint, decals or stickers.
Check that all of the movable parts work and verify that your Gundam matches your box images. Display finished model using a stand, shadow box or light filtering display case to prevent model breakage, paint fading by sunlight, and/or dust build-up in hard-to-clean areas.