Scale Modelling: A Beginner's Overview

So, what is scale modelling? Scale modelling is a hobby that consists of both technical and artistic skills. It covers a wide variety of subjects, allowing hobbyists to build and replicate miniature versions of real-world and fictional objects. Whether you’re interested in historical accuracy, creative expression, or just the joy of building, scale modelling has something for everyone.

Common Scale Modelling Subjects

  1. Aviation – This covers both military and civilian fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft scale model kits. Popular subjects include World War I and II fighter planes, modern jets, helicopters, and commercial airliners. Popular brands include Tamiya, Hasegawa, Eduard, Airfix, and Revell.

  2. Military Vehicles – This category includes a large variety of subjects, such as:

    • Tracked and wheeled armoured vehicles, including tanks, self-propelled guns, and APCs.

    • Soft-skin vehicles, such as supply trucks, jeeps, and utility vehicles.

    • Artillery and anti-aircraft systems, which are often built as standalone pieces or as part of dioramas.

    Leading brands include Tamiya, Dragon, Meng, Takom, and Border Model.

  3. Maritime – This includes both military and civilian ships and boats, from historic sailing ships to modern warships, submarines, and luxury yachts. Notable manufacturers include Trumpeter, Revell, Flyhawk, and Hobby Boss.

  4. Automotive – This generally covers civilian vehicles, including cars, motorbikes, and trucks. This category often appeals to collectors who enjoy classic cars, racing vehicles, and custom paint jobs. Popular brands include Tamiya, Aoshima, Fujimi, Hasegawa, and Revell.

  5. Science Fiction – A massive category that includes models from franchises such as Star Trek, Star Wars, Warhammer 40K, and Battlestar Galactica. Bandai dominates this space with its Gunpla (Gundam) model kits, while other manufacturers like Fine Molds and Polar Lights offer Star Wars and Star Trek kits.

  6. Anime Models – This category features characters, vehicles, and mecha from popular anime series. Many anime model kits require less modification, as they come in snap-fit designs with pre-coloured parts, reducing the need for painting. Bandai, Kotobukiya, and Wave are leading brands in this category.

  7. Fantasy – This includes a wide range of subjects such as miniatures from tabletop games (e.g., Warhammer by Games Workshop, Dungeons & Dragons by WizKids), as well as 3D-printed kits featuring mythical creatures and legendary warriors. Many fantasy models allow for creative colour schemes and unique paint effects.

  8. Buildings/Architectural Models – Often used in conjunction with other scale model categories in dioramas or tabletop gaming terrain. These can be pre-made kits or scratch-built using a variety of materials such as plastic, wood, and foam. MiniArt and ICM produce quality architectural models.

  9. Railway Modelling – This category covers the creation of miniature railway systems, including landscapes, tracks, and rolling stock. Enthusiasts often combine model railways with dioramas to create highly detailed scenes. Common brands include Hornby, Bachmann, and Kato.

Scale and Common Sizes in Scale Modelling

Scale models come in a variety of sizes, with the scale ratio indicating how small the model is compared to the real-life object. Different categories of scale models tend to have standard scales. Here are some of the most common scales used:

  • Aviation: 1/144, 1/72, 1/48, 1/32, 1/24

  • Military Vehicles: 1/72, 1/48, 1/35, 1/16

  • Maritime: 1/700, 1/350, 1/200, 1/72

  • Automotive: 1/43, 1/24, 1/20, 1/12

  • Science Fiction/Anime: 1/144, 1/100, 1/72, 1/60 (e.g., Gunpla Master Grade and Perfect Grade)

  • Fantasy Miniatures: 28mm, 32mm, 75mm (various scales used for gaming and display models)

  • Buildings/Architectural: Various scales, often 1/87 (HO scale), 1/72, or 1/35 for dioramas

  • Railway Modelling: N scale (1/160), HO scale (1/87), O scale (1/48), G scale (1/22.5)

Types of Paint and Their Uses

When painting scale models, the three most common types of paint are:

  • Acrylic Paints – Water-based and quick-drying. Brands like Tamiya, Vallejo, AK Interactive, and Ammo by Mig offer a wide range of acrylics for brush and airbrush use.

  • Enamel Paints – Oil-based and known for durability and smooth finishes. Brands such as Humbrol and Revell produce high-quality enamel paints.

  • Lacquer Paints – Fast-drying and extremely durable. Companies like Mr. Hobby (Mr. Color) and AK Real Colors specialize in lacquer-based paints.

Each paint type requires different thinning and cleaning methods, with acrylics being the easiest to clean up using water or alcohol-based thinners, while enamels and lacquers need specialized thinners.

Getting Started with Scale Modelling

If you're new to scale modelling, here are some tips to help you get started:

  • Choose a Beginner-Friendly Kit – Start with a simple model that doesn’t require extensive modifications. The 1/48 Tamiya kits from the 90s and early 2000s are a great place to start.

  • Invest in Basic Tools – Essential tools include X-Acto knives, sanding sticks, Tamiya Extra Thin Cement, sprue cutters, and tweezers.

  • Practice Painting Techniques – Experiment on spare parts before painting your main model.

  • Take Your Time – Enjoy the process and focus on learning rather than rushing to finish a model.

  • Join a Community – Online forums (e.g., Britmodeller, Armorama, and The Gundam Forums), social media groups, and local modelling clubs can provide valuable advice and encouragement.

Final Thoughts

Scale modelling is an engaging and rewarding hobby that blends craftsmanship, creativity, and history. Whether you’re building a classic aircraft, a sci-fi starship, or a highly detailed diorama, there’s always something new to learn and improve. If you’re considering getting into the hobby, pick a subject that excites you and start building!

Happy modelling!

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