Tools for GunPla

Tools used in GunPla

In this article we will discuss the different tools need for GunPla hobby. Here are the quick list. 


Basic tools 

Side Cutters - This tool is used to cut the parts from the Runners. Side cutters are one of the essential tool in this hobby. The alternative for this one are nail nippers, scissors, cutters. But I'm not recommending using this alternatives because using those alternatives will leave stress marks in the plastic and the kit will not look good. If you want to have a neat kit use side cutters. I am using Plato brand for the side cutters, I bought is around 250 pesos here in the Philippines.  And there are also good brands aside from Plato.

(Side Cutter I'm using Plato Brand)

Hobby Knife - This tool is use for primarily for cleaning the excess nubs on parts left by side cutters. This is also used in cleaning extra plastic flashes and hairlines left from manufacturing. Also used for cutting / slicing Plaplates for custom use.  This is also one of the essential tools for the hobby. For this one I'm using Creston Brand but my blade is from X-Acto Brand and I'm using #11.

(Hobby Knife with X-Acto #11 blades)

Sanding Sponge / Sticks - This is used to clean the remaining nub on the part left by hobby knife. If you plan to have a clean build you have to use this. If you cant find any sanding sponge / sticks you can use Sand Papers with high Grits. I'm using 600, 1200, 2000 grit of Sand paper using it gradually to have a better finish.  



 

(My DIY Sanding Sticks, Sand Papers glued in Popsicle stick for easy handling)

Tweezers - This is used for easy handling and application of stickers / decals on the kit. This can be also used to pick up tiny parts that your hands can't. I'm using the kind of tweezers used in electronics bought in any electronic shops. But there are also hobby grade brands but its just the same for me.

(Generic Straight Tweezers used for Electronics)

Cutting Mat - This is basically placed on the top of your table used to protect your table from scratching when using hobby knife in slicing. This also prolong the lifespan of your hobby knife blades. I'm using generic cutting mat bought from school supplies store.

(Generic Cutting Mat)

Gundam Markers - Gundam Markers are usually used for detailing of you model kit. It is the easy way of detailing than painting it. It also used in covering up those discolored stress marks from cleaning nubs.

(Gundam Marker Set used for SEED Series)

Gundam Panel Line Markers - Panel line markers are used for panel lining your model kit to highlight the details in the panel lines, edges and etc. There is also good alternative for panel line markers are the pigment pens fine tip 0.1 or 0.05 that could be bought in school supplies section which is cheaper that Gundam Panel Line Markers.

(Gundam Panel Lining Markers)

(Uni Pin 0.1 brand alternative for Gundam Panel Lining Marker)

Paints - This is used for painting in your model kit. For detailing and recoloring of model kits. There are bottled paints that can be used for hand brushing and  also used for air brushing. There is also spray paints. Hobby grade spray can such as Mr. Hobby, Tamiya and Etc. and you can also use some industrial spray can like Bosny, Nikkon and Etc. Some of the hobbyist they take the paint out of the can and used  for air brushing. The process is called decanting.

(Tamiya Bottled Paints)

Others

Cotton Swabs - This is used for cleaning for excess panel line. It is also used in the technique reverse wash. 


Lighter Fluid - This is used for cleaning for excess panel line. It is also used in the technique reverse wash. 

Alligator Clips on Sticks -  This is used to hold Parts for spray paining or air brush painting. 

Masking Tape -  Used to mask the area you don't want to be painted. 

Eraser - Also used for cleaning excess panel line. 

Thank you for visiting my blog. Hope it help you.