Building Model Cars: Is it a Good Hobby?
As someone who enjoys building model cars as a pastime, I know that building a model car is a good hobby for model cars lovers. Modeling is a kind of puzzle that specializes in making 3D objects. There are lots of people in this hobby as I will explain later. Thus, there are people who want to start building one. Is it a good hobby? Let’s find out
Is building model cars a good hobby? Building Models is a good hobby if you love model cars. It is recommended to know how to build scale model cars before diving into this hobby. But, there are a lot of beginner-friendly kits which come with detailed and easy-to-understand instructions so you won’t have any problem learning how to build them.
What’s great is that the hobby involves creating model cars after acquiring model car kits. The kits to build model cars are available online. These kits make building models relatively easy so even a beginner can instantly have fun in building model cars.
This article would discuss this topic. It would discuss more on if building model cars is a good hobby, the benefits you’ll get, and what makes it fun.
Is building model cars a good hobby
Building models is a hobby that comes with its advantages, as it can help enhance your cognitive function.
Furthermore, the kit is all you need to get started with this hobby—the kit is every piece you need to start modeling the car you would like. The kits differ from one manufacturer to another, so check out if you have bought one to model the car you would like.
Doing a creative endeavor like this is not only enjoyable but also beneficial to your health. Creative activities have been shown in studies to increase brain function, mental wellness, and blood pressure.
Therefore building a model car is a good hobby, and it is a hobby adopted by model car enthusiasts. If you also love arts and crafts, you will find building model cars as a good hobby.
If you’re interested in knowing which companies make good model kits, here is an article where I cherry-picked companies that make high-quality and realistic-looking models. I trust their products and they are generally beginner-friendly. Here’s the link: Which are the best companies that make Plastic Model Kits
Are Building Models Fun?
Building models is a fun hobby and a good pastime. Moreover, it is enjoyable, and there is something magical and rewarding about building models. The feeling that you’ve built something from scratch is just satisfying and something that you can be proud of.
The pleasure of creating something that is remembered in history, the future, or the worlds of fantasy is real, and it can be a truly satisfying experience.
The model building spans generations, from trains to plains to automobiles, and if you haven’t tried it yet, now is the moment.
I explained in a separate article how old building these models are as a hobby. If you’re interested in that, here is the article: Which Is Better: Revell Or Airfix?
Model creation is one of those hobbies known to produce a productive but relaxing trance, and it is one of those projects that can be accomplished on your own time with friends or by yourself. Model construction is known for clearing your mind of the week’s concerns as you concentrate on your project.
Though some people prefer to build models in the privacy of their own homes, building models have a strong community appeal.
This activity brings people together and is even a fun way to meet people in your region, whether you want to invite friends over to assist you in completing the project or want to get a few pals interested.
However, before starting to build models, take note of this.
Model building kits are divided into skill levels, which indicate the level of difficulty for the hobbyist.
The levels of difficulty in model kits include skill level 1 kit, which has snap-together pieces and doesn’t require glue or paint; skill level 2 kits, which do; and skill level 3 kits, which have smaller and much more detailed parts and require glue and paint. Kits for advanced skill levels 4 and 5 come with extra-detailed components. Level 5, in particular, necessitates expert-level abilities.
I suggest going for levels 1 or 2 first.
Are Model Kits Still Popular?
Model kits are still popular. In fact, they have a strong community in forums and in the internet. There are also hundreds of companies that manufacture model kits, which implies people still like to buy these. There are also different types of model kits from cars, planes, and many more.
Even the model kits are sold online after ordering; they can be delivered to your address. The kits vary according to the car model you would like to build, so as the price.
These kits contain all the complex parts and components necessary to build the car. An instruction manual will be included with each kit to inform you what colors you’ll need and how to put together complicated elements.
Model making isn’t just a pastime for hobbyists. Several people have made a career out of the difficulty of putting together representations of real items.
Those who create models to memorialize historical events, for example, are employed to create models that use previous events as a foundation to forecast future occurrences of high commercial interest.
What would be the best reason to build a model?
The best reason to build a model would be that it is just fun and exciting to build something from scratch. There is just joy in the creation process and the feeling that you’re proud of what you made. Furthermore, building models have cognitive benefits and can increase your art skills.
Of course, there are lots of reasons why you build a model. I am going to share with them below. These are reasons why there are lots of people who are enthusiastic about modeling.
Modeling helps in exercising your artistic skills
Modeling is a form of art, and when you are modeling, you are exercising your art skills even though you have guidelines on how to model the car.
You can also color outside the lines to create your unique style. There are no right or incorrect ways to design a model; it’s all up to you and what you want to get out of it.
Modeling helps in learning car Models’ history.
Whether you’re building a model of an 80s muscle car, a jet replica, or a replica of a modern car, scale model building offers a unique opportunity to learn about the history of the vehicle you’re building.
Even before you start modeling any car, you have to familiarize yourself with the car. Through the search for knowledge about the car, you learn a lot of history about model cars.
Modeling help sharpen your Organization Skills.
Scale models exist in various shapes and sizes, with some having hundreds of parts and others having only a few dozen. Irrespective of your ability level, you must complete the project by organizing the model’s components and following a precise step-by-step procedure to produce a stunning item.
If you skip any steps, you can wind up with excess pieces or a model that looks like what you imagined. More expertise comes with practice, but organization and following directions are essential when it comes to making models.
Modeling helps relax the mind.
Modeling is an enjoyable hobby that can help you relax your mind after a long day. If you have a stressful job taking time evening and start modeling your car will help cool down.
If you’re an introvert who enjoys spending time alone, scale model making is a great way to relieve tension by focusing on the stages in the instructions or using your imagination with the paint scheme.
Modeling assists in building a Collection of model cars
Model making is the activity for you if you enjoy collecting stuff. You’ll be left with a lovely scale model of a classic automobile or other vehicles to display on the cabinet publicly and cherish for years to come, in addition to the other perks we described above.
Conclusion
It’s nice to have a hobby like making and detailing scale model automobiles as people spend more time on their phones and tablets.
It diverts your attention away from your internet activity. Beginner kits are reasonably priced and commonly accessible.
Modeling allows you to use your hands while also improving your problem-solving abilities. Creating and constructing something provides a great lot of satisfaction.
Besides, you may end starting a business to model cars and sell.
Interested? I suggest you read this article first to know the value of these models: Do diecast cars increase in value?
Additionally, if you develop a passion for scale model vehicles, you may be able to pursue a career in the car wash sector.
“Only the things I love”
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So, here are the things I love when taking care of my Diecast Models.
Cleaning the Models
The first we are going to talk about is cleaning the models.
Removing Dust
- Air Brush – For me, this is the best since it not just removes dust but you can use it in painting/clear coating.
- Air Duster – This is a good alternative to Airbrush
- Normal Brush – If you are short on budget, you can use a normal brush. However, make sure that the brush has soft bristles because there are some hard brushes than can cause scratches. That’s why I recommended a good brush that can do the job properly.
Cleaning and Shining Hacks
Well, here are some of my cleaning hacks for removing scratches, oxidation, and so much more.
- Removing Decal Adhesive – Use Goo Gone on those hard-to-remove decal adhesives. It works fast and works like charm!
- Waxing and Polishing – Here is something a lot of people don’t know. Waxing protects the clear coat and paint while polishing shines the model. Instead of buying it separately, use a 2 in 1 to save money. Get this instead.
- Beginner Wax – The wax I recommended earlier is good and provides the best results based on my experience. But a beginner might have a problem especially if they’re not good at applying wax. Solid wax reaching hard to reach surface can be hard to remove. You have two choices here. One is to use a qtips to reach those surfaces, another is to use a liquid wax I recommended.
- Cleaning Wheels, Rubber, Plastic – Do not forget that rubber and plastic surface are quite different, especially in the cleaning process. Just wiping it down won’t do the job. That’s why I use Meguiar’s Vinyl and Rubber Cleaner and Conditioner. Works like charm!
- Make the Wheels Shine! – Making our models look good won’t be complete without tiny details such as shiny wheels! Do not forget this because however small this is, the difference can be as big as night and day.
- Remove Scratches Easily – Tiny scratches are not the end for your model. Here is a simple trick I’ve been using to make my models look scratch-free even without repainting. Use T-Cut.
Painting the Models
Painting Tools
Make sure when you paint models, have these ready.
- Tape – A tape is important if you are painting a straight line. Furthermore, it will prevent your paint to scatter on other parts. I recommend Tamiya Tape since it is really made for models. Furthermore, they stick really well preventing paint splatters.
- Brush (Beginner) – Find a good set of brushes to paint your models. Of course, you can opt for an airbrush but it’s quite expensive.
- Airbrush (Intermediate/Expert) – This will yield a significantly better result than an ordinary brush because you can easily spray the paint evenly. I recommend this if you know what you’re doing.
- Stand(Optional) – Stands are good because it can be hard to manually hold the models while painting. It is optional but in my opinion, the price is well worth it for the comfort it gives.
- Drop Cloths – Drop Cloths will protect your surroundings from the paint.
- Primer – The most common beginner mistake I see is painting models without any Primer. A primer will prevent imperfections such as bubbles or paint not sticking to your models. It is a small price to pay for quality results.
- Clear Coat – A clear coat will protect the paint of your models. This will make the paint last longer. Also, it is the one responsible for making your models shine.
Paints
Of course, you can’t do painting properly without paint. So here are the ones I recommend.
- Acrylic Paint – Good for beginners because it dries quickly. However, it doesn’t produce results as good as enamel paint.
- Enamel Paint – Provides a good quality finish and longer-lasting paint. However, it takes longer to dry and requires expertise to use.
Model Maintenance
Model Storage
- Simple Wood Cabinet – While it doesn’t let you display your models, wooden cabinets are good storage for these models. For one, they are not heat conductors which means that the temperature inside will remain constant and remain cool. Furthermore, they prevent light from reaching the models which can cause oxidation.
- Clear Cabinet with Lock – If you want to display your models, then I recommend this. It closes so dust won’t easily get to your models. I also recommend you don’t put more than 1 model in each compartment since metals are good conductors of heat.
Model Photography
So you want to show off your models to others? Well, I got you covered.
Here is my beginner-friendly model photography tutorial that teaches everything from taking pictures to the editing process.
You will also see me doing hands-on photography in that tutorial.
Here is the link: How to Take Pictures of a Diecast Model or Model Kit | Helpful Illustrated and Video Guide
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