Let's Build.... A Plastic Model Kit! Quiz

Answer: You should not buy a kit that is too complicated for you

Many kits have a skill level printed clearly on the box. Lower numbers mean that the kit is suitable for someone just starting modelling. If you attempt something too complex you may get frustrated and lose interest altogether.

Answer: Scale of the kit

The 'scale' of the kit is the size ratio between the subject and the model itself. Many model airplanes are in 1:72 scale which means the the model is seventy-two times smaller than the actual airplane in real life. For someone starting out as a modeller, 1:72 is a good scale to choose.

Answer: The instruction sheet

The instructions are often very easy to follow. A few minutes studying them and learning what the symbols mean before starting to build your kit is time well spent. You can sometimes find small catalogues in the box showing you the other model kits that you can buy. Money-off vouchers are very rare though!

Answer: On a stable surface in a well lit, well ventilated room

It is always a good idea to use a large table near a window as you will need good light while you are building. If you are using your mum's best dining table you must put something down to protect the surface from knife marks, glue and paint. If you don't you will probably find yourself in trouble.

Answer: All of these are important to remember

You will need a knife to cut the parts from the 'sprue' which is the framework that the parts are attached to. Special craft knives are very, very sharp and must always be treated with caution. If you are worried about using your craft knife, always ask an adult to help you. If your mum and dad are worried about you having a knife, an ideal alternative is a pair of nail clippers!

Answer: A pair of tweezers

A pair of tweezers are always useful to have around. You may drop a small piece on the floor that you might not be able to pick up easily, you can use your tweezers to hold small parts while you are painting them and they can also be used to hold delicate parts that might be damaged by handling with your fingers too often.

Answer: Check you have put the cap on your tube of glue

Some of the glues that plastic modellers use can give off very powerful fumes that might make you feel ill very quickly. If this happens, open a window or go outside, get some fresh air and stay away until you feel better.

Answer: Paint it!

On the instruction sheet that came with your kit you will also have information about painting. You can follow these instructions or you can let your imagination run wild... When I was about 9 years old I had a bright blue and yellow model of a Lancaster bomber!

Some modelling paints also contain solvents and, like the glue that you've used, these will give off fumes that might make you feel a little nauseous if your work area doesn't have good ventilation. A good idea is to use water based acrylic paints if you can.

As you gain experience, you will find that you can get even better results if you paint each piece as you assemble your model.

Answer: False

They are known as 'decals' (pronounced dee-cals) or, if you live in the UK, 'transfers', or 'stickers' in Australia. You will need to cut them out and briefly soak them in warm water before sliding them onto your model and allowing them to dry. Position your 'decals' using a soft, fine-tip paintbrush and do not handle your kit until they are dry.

Answer: A Diorama

Whatever you have chosen as your model, it will look great if you put it in a display! Unless you are a natural and talented modeller, it might be some time before your skills are up to building a diorama. But practice does make perfect and with concentration it should not be long before your models are the envy of your friends!