Welcome to the world of Gunpla, where creativity, craftsmanship, and a love for mecha converge! Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or a complete beginner, building Gunpla models can be an incredibly rewarding and therapeutic experience. In this blog post, we'll guide you through the essentials of starting your Gunpla journey, from understanding what Gunpla is to selecting your first kit and offering some pro tips for a smooth build. Let's dive in!
What is Gunpla?
Gunpla, short for "Gundam Plastic Model," refers to the scale model kits of the mechas (giant robots) from the popular Japanese anime series "Mobile Suit Gundam." These models are made by Bandai and have gained a global following due to their intricate designs, variety of grades, and the joy of building and customizing them.
Why Gunpla?
- Creative Outlet: Gunpla allows you to express your creativity through painting, detailing, and customizing your models.
- Stress Relief: The process of building and assembling these kits can be a relaxing and meditative activity.
- Community: Join a vibrant community of enthusiasts who share your passion for these incredible models.
Getting Started: Choosing Your First Kit
Gunpla kits are categorized into different grades, each representing a level of detail, complexity, and size. Here's a quick overview:
- SD (Super Deformed): These are smaller and have exaggerated features, making them easy and fun to build.
- HG (High Grade): Ideal for beginners, these kits are 1/144 scale and offer a good balance of detail and ease of assembly.
- RG (Real Grade): At 1/144 scale, these kits have more intricate parts and details, suitable for builders looking for a challenge.
- MG (Master Grade): At 1/100 scale, MG kits offer a high level of detail and articulation, perfect for more experienced builders.
- PG (Perfect Grade): The most detailed and largest scale (1/60), these kits are for dedicated hobbyists seeking the ultimate Gunpla experience.
For beginners, we recommend starting with an HG kit. They are affordable, widely available, and provide a good introduction to the world of Gunpla without overwhelming you with complexity.
Essential Tools for Gunpla Building
To get started, you'll need some basic tools:
- Plastic Nippers: For cutting parts off the sprues.
- Hobby Knife: To clean up nub marks and trim excess plastic.
- Tweezers: For placing small stickers and decals.
- Sanding Files or Sandpaper: To smooth out nub marks.
- Panel Line Markers: To enhance the details and make your model stand out.
- Plastic Cement: Optional, for parts that may need extra bonding.
Building Your First Gunpla: Step-by-Step
- Unbox and Organize: Lay out all the parts and tools. Keep the instruction manual handy.
- Cut and Clean Parts: Use your nippers to carefully cut the parts from the sprues. Trim any excess plastic with your hobby knife.
- Assemble: Follow the instruction manual step-by-step. Take your time to ensure each part fits correctly.
- Detailing: Use panel line markers to bring out the details. Apply stickers and decals as instructed.
- Finishing Touches: Sand any rough edges and clean up your model. Optional: Apply a topcoat for extra protection and a polished look.
Pro Tips for Beginners
- Take Your Time: Rushing can lead to mistakes. Enjoy the process and work at a comfortable pace.
- Follow Instructions: The manual is your best friend. Follow it closely, especially for your first few builds.
- Join Online Communities: Forums, social media groups, and YouTube channels offer a wealth of information, tutorials, and inspiration.
Where to Buy Gunpla
You can find Gunpla kits at specialty hobby stores, online retailers, and our very own Shopify store. We offer a wide selection of kits for all skill levels, along with the tools and accessories you need to start your Gunpla journey.
Conclusion
Embarking on your Gunpla journey is an exciting adventure filled with creativity and satisfaction. Whether you’re building your first model or adding to your collection, the world of Gunpla has something to offer everyone. Happy building!
