Let's Get Started
Building Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Models) can be an enjoyable and fulfilling hobby. The model kits are based on the popular Mobile Suit Gundam anime Movies and TV series franchise, which began in 1979. We hope this guide will help you with the basic to get started, from selecting a model kit and appropriate tools to completion of assembling your first model kit. Let's begin your Gunpla journey together!
Choosing a Model Kit and Aquiring Basic Tools
Picking out a kit can arguably be one of the most fun part to begin with. You can find Gunpla kits online and at local hobby stores. However, due to the shear amount of kits available, online stores may have the most selection for you to choose from. Check out our model kits guide for more information regarding the different sizes, grades and difficulty levels to help narrow down your selection. Most will agree that there are not really any really bad kits. Simply pick a kit that appeals and resonates with you most. ​​
As for the basic tools, you really only need a pair of nippers, hobby knife and some sanding sticks to build a good looking model. A pair of tweezers can help with applying decals and stickers. Start with these items first and when you are ready to up your game, you can take a look at our basic tools guide for other recommendations to help organize your workspace and make the build process even more enjoyable.
Setting Up Your Workspace and Preparing Your Gunpla Kit
Before you start, clear and prepare an organized workspace. While not required, a cutting mat can help protect the surface of your worktable and keep the workspace organized so that you won’t lose parts or throw them by accident in the trash bin while cleaning up.​
Next, unbox and familiarize yourself with your model kit. Remove the plastic wraps and check out all the detailed parts on the runners (also called sprues). Each runner is designated by a letter and a number (ie. A1) that is referenced in the instruction booklet. The first few pages contain a visual list of all the runners in the kit. You can cross check your runners in the box with this list so that you’ll be sure that your runners are complete. You can then arrange the runners in alphabetical order and lay them aside so that when you need a runner that contains a specific part, it will be easier to find.
Yes, the instructions are in Japanese, but don’t worry, the visual diagrams are very straight forward and easy to understand. Here are translations of some of the most common symbols that can be found here. Now that you’ve familiarized yourself with the instructions and the runners, you can start cutting the parts from the runners and building them into your model.
Cutting Out and Piecing Together Parts
The instruction manual can guide you on which parts to cut or leave intact. Parts to be cut are denoted by a letter of the runner and number for the part on that runner. It is important to handle cutting carefully to avoid damaging parts or leaving stress marks on the plastic. Use nippers to cut pieces away from the sprue, leaving a couple of millimeters of plastic to prevent gouging. With the part completely removed from the spure, carefully cut off the remaining nub or shave off with a hobby knife in thin layers.​
To enhance the look of your Gundam model, smooth out nubs with sanding sticks. Mold lines from the casting process can also be removed with a hobby knife and then sanded smooth. To start, use a low or coarse grit (600 - 800) sanding stick to even out the surface. Then increase to a high or fine grit (1500 -2000) sanding stick to smoothen the surface. If you plan to paint, stopping at 1000 grit will help primer adhere to the plastic. Do this for all of the parts to have a nice clean look on your built Gunpla.
Assembling a Gunpla model is a straightforward and rewarding experience. Follow the instructions closely, as some parts need specific alignment for mechanisms to function correctly. Apply gentle pressure to avoid breaking the plastic, which is sturdy but not unbreakable. Each limb should make a distinct "snap" sound when properly connected, indicating it's securely in place. When pieces doesn’t seem to fit to another part, do not force them together. It usually means you have the wrong part or are installing it in the wrong direction. Review the diagram and double check the proper orientation before proceeding. Although glue is not required, if any part is loose, use Tamiya Cement to help tighten it. With careful assembly, you'll have a well-articulated model ready for display​
Panel Lining
Panel lining is an excellent way to enhance Gundam model kits by adding depth and emphasizing details. While optional, it significantly improves the overall appearance.​
Gundam Markers and mechanical pencil is a quick and easy way to do panel lining. Carefully run your panel lining marker or pencil through the panel line creases. Excess ink or lead that go beyond the panel line can be cleaned and removed using a rubber eraser.​​
The Tamiya Panel Line Accent is one of the most popular methods. It comes in different colors and already thinned to the right consistency. Each bottle also comes with its own built-in fine point brush. Just dab the brush at one end of the panel line, and the paint will naturally flow along the grooves. After the liner dries slightly, use a cotton swab lightly dampened with enamel thinner, mineral spirits, or turpentine to clean up any excess. Be careful to avoid removing too much of the accent liner.
There are various methods to do panel lining, including using a mechanical pencil, Gundam Markers and Tamiya Panel Line Accent. The different methods will give provide a varying results and effect depending on how you would it the model to look.
Applying Decals
Decals enhance the realism of Gunpla kits and are highly recommended for elevating your model's appearance. It comes in three main types: sticker decals, waterslide decals, and dry transfer decals. We will mainly focus on the stickers and waterslide decals.
Refer to the instruction manual for decal placement, using the provided diagram and codes. You can use tweezers, a hobby knife, or a toothpick to lift and position decals. Be careful to avoid tearing them. You can also use a toothpick for laying the decal sticker in place and pushing out the air bubbles under clear decals to obtain a clean look.​
Waterslide decals requires an additional step of soaking in water before the decals can be removed from the sheet. Make sure you only cut and soak the waterslide decals one at a time, since it can lose its adhesiveness if soaked in water for too long. After they are positioned correctly, excess water can be soaked up by carefully rolling a cotton swab along the decal, while not moving it. They are more delicate and typically requires more time and effort when apply. However, when applied correctly, offer superior results compared to standard stickers, giving your model a professional and polished look.
Topcoating to Enhance and Protect
Topcoating is the final step in building a Gunpla, providing protection and sealing decals to ensure long-term durability. There are two main finishes to choose from: matte and gloss. Matte topcoat is excellent for hiding scratches and sanding marks, as it creates a micro-rough surface that reflects less light. Gloss, on the other hand, is ideal for metallic-finished Gunpla, as it enhances their shine. The choice between the two really comes down to personal preference.​
When topcoating, it’s best to work outdoors or in a well ventilated area, as the spray fumes can be toxic and unpleasant. You can disassemble the limbs and spray them separately or simply spread the arms and legs and spray the entire model. ​
Before spraying, shake the can well, and for finer particles, warm the can in water beforehand. Start spraying away from the model, then move across in a continuous motion, stopping beyond the model to avoid buildup. Spray from about 12 inches (30 centimeters) away using multiple light coats. Allow each coat to dry for a few minutes to prevent drips or bubbles and apply three to five coats for the best results. This technique ensures an even coat without over-application. ​
Be mindful that topcoating can fog clear parts. Remove these or mask with tape beforehand if you want to preserve their clarity.​
