Are you interested in starting to build plastic models?
Building models is one of the most rewarding hobbies - and in our opinion, also the best. No other hobby makes it possible to create scale models from real (or fictional) life with such a high level of accuracy both in terms of form and level of detail.
However, choosing and buying your first model can be a bit daunting, as there are tens of thousands of kits on the model market, from dozens of companies. Choosing your first model can be crucial. Choosing a model that does not suit the starting level - can be frustrating and even make you think "maybe it's not for me".
In this part of the site, we will help you understand the process of entering the hobby, from the first time you enter the hobby shop, to the completion of your first construction - when you are ready and eager to purchase the next model.
What is a plastic model kit?
A plastic model kit (kit), contains a scaled-down model made of non-complex plastic parts, which must be connected using a dedicated model glue according to the instruction sheet provided with the kit.
Plastic model kits are replicas of various subjects, ranging from military subjects such as airplanes, helicopters, ships, tanks, etc., through models of civilian cars, figures, Science Fiction Committee - models on the subject of Star Wars, Star Trek, and a host of other sub-categories.
Miniature model kits as we know them today, first appeared in England in the 1930s under the "FROG" brand. The models were manufactured on a 1/72 scale. A few years later, the field of scale models took a serious turn, as FROG and many other companies began producing models that were used for aircraft identification training as part of the war effort. As mentioned, the scale of the models was often 1/72 - a size that allows display and comparison of heavy bombers and tiny fighter jets - from a reasonable distance of sight.
Plastic models are usually manufactured using a process called injection molding. In the production process, an injection mold is produced (two halves of steel plates engraved with the shape of the model parts). Next, connect the two halves of the engraved molds, and inject high-pressure plastic-styrene into the engraving. As the plastic cools and hardens, the pieces are removed from the mold, and thus the pieces' wood is actually formed
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Wood part production in the 50s
Modern parts wood
Building plastic kits is an old and classic hobby, but over the years has evolved miraculously with the advancement of technology. The level of detail on the plastic has increased, the quality of the castings has improved and even the connections of the parts have become easier (but not always perfect).
Building models can definitely be the next step for a kid who loves to build Lego or other similar construction toys. This is a great hobby for those who love do-it-yourself projects and are looking to try something new. Although building plastic models is a kind of escalation, it's a natural advancement for someone who loves to work with their hands - and create.
So how do you get started?
The first step is - what fun - to buy a model! But how do you buy the right model? We have prepared a short guide for you:
A new model can be purchased at the model store closest to your home. There are not too many model stores in Israel, but there are a number of stores that still deal in the field (you can find information in the "Stores from Israel and the World" forum.
In addition, you can find lots of online stores around the Internet that deal in the field and even make deliveries to Israel.
The best way to start looking for the perfect model for you, is first of all to understand what topic you are interested in (planes, tanks, cars ...)
Next, try to understand what skill level is right for you based on your skills and previous experience in other areas.
Finally select the scale (size) of the model and then select the specific model itself.
At some manufacturers, (Revell, AirFix, etc ...) you can find on the box an indication of the degree of difficulty between 1-5. The skill levels will vary depending on the number of parts and the degree of difficulty of assembly. Before you progress to the higher level models, make sure you feel comfortable at the lighter levels. As a rule, a model will usually require glue and paint in order to complete it. We also recommend consulting with club members - you can do this through our forum.
Skill level 1: Attaching parts without the need for glue / paint
Skill Level 2: Lightweight kits that require glue and paint to complete. Usually count less than 100 pieces.
Skill Level 3: Kits that contain smaller and more detailed parts. Usually more than 100 pieces are counted.
Skill Level 4: Advanced kits with extremely fine details. They contain more than 100 parts.
Skill Level 5: Models for Experts. These models contain super detailed parts, can hold hundreds of parts, often have moving parts, like car suspension racks, rotating propellers and more. These models can also contain metal-type parts Photo Etched and Resin parts that require great skill and experience.
In some companies, the level of construction is indicated on the packaging
Construction topics:
The issues available for construction are endless. If you like the subject of the army, you can find in the model stores aircraft models, ship models or RPG models (armored combat vehicle - tanks, APCs, and more). If you're in the car section, look in the car model store, if you like science fiction, check out the science fiction section. If you want to build characters, go to the character models, where you can choose between Models of military figures, civilian figures, or even science fiction figures in a variety of sizes.
Model size:
Also note the size of the model! The model kits are adjusted according to the "scale", which is the size of the final model in relation to the item in real life. For example, a model of a 1/24 scale car will be 1/24 the size of a real car. For example, if the Ford Mustang in real life is 477.5 cm long, the 1/24 scale model will be about 19.8 cm long.
Same thing about military models. The smaller the number on the scale, the larger the model (relative to the real item). For example, a 1/48 scale F-16 aircraft, Will be larger than an F-16 On a scale of 1/72.
However, a 1/24 scale car will be significantly smaller than a BOEING 747 On a scale of 1/72, since the BOEING 747 He's much bigger in real life.
Pay attention to the size of the kit you want to purchase! Scale calculation can be performed in the attached calculator:
In conclusion:
In conclusion, plastic models are a whole and complex world (literally). Choose a suitable starting model according to the field of interest that fascinates you, and choose a model according to your level of skill and the desired scale. As a rule, a plastic model kit will always require glue and paint. In order to build the model, a number of basic tools must be used.
Trying to build a model above your skill level can be a frustrating and annoying thing.
Building models is a fun thing - be sure to purchase the right kits for you to have a good and positive experience!
Now that you have your first model in hand, go to the next page to understand how to start building your model-