Essential tools for Airfix modelling

---- Tools ----

To get started with plastic modelling, you’ll need a range of basic tools. As you gain experience and advance through the Airfix skill levels, you might want to add more advanced tools for detailing and finishing. Here's a breakdown:

Essential Tools (for beginners and up)

These are the core tools for any plastic modeller:

1. Sprue Cutters / Side Cutters

·       For cutting parts cleanly from the sprue (plastic frame)

·       Avoid using scissors—they can stress or snap the plastic.

2. Hobby Knife

·       For cleaning up mould lines, flash or sprue nubs.

3. Tweezers

·       Ideal for handling small parts and placing decals.

4. Sanding Sticks / Files

·       For smoothing seamlines.

5. Clothes Pegs

·       Hold parts together while glue dries

·       Clothes pegs, bulldog clips or specialised model clamps work.

6. Plastic Cement

·       Specifically designed for polystyrene plastic – Humbrol Poly Cement

·       It melts plastic slightly to fuse parts—different from super glue.

7. Paints

·       Acrylic or enamel paints.

8. Paintbrushes

·       A range of fine to medium sizes for detail and broad coverage.

Useful Extras (intermediate to advanced)

Cutting Mat

·       Protects your table and extends blade life.

Pin Vise (Hand Drill)

·       For drilling small holes.

Masking Tape

·       For sharp paint lines or protecting areas during painting

·       Use low-tack tape.

Putty / Filler

·       Fills gaps between parts or smooths seams.

Useful Tools (Advanced)

Airbrush and Compressor

·       For smooth, professional paint finishes (especially on larger models)

·       Big step up in both quality and complexity.

Panel Line Wash / Weathering Tools

·       Enhances realism by emphasizing panel lines or adding wear.

Maintenance Items

·       Thinner/cleaner for paint cleanup

·       Cotton swabs/toothpicks for detail work or corrections

·       Paper towels and tissues for cleaning.