4 Accessories to Build Scale Model Toys

Having a hobby perhaps be one of the best ways to relax and unwind from our busy lives. Many people love building scale model toys, and it can be a favourite pastime to nurture their creative side and thus, create miniature versions of their favourite objects.

However, making scale model toys requires much patience, precision, and attention to detail. Besides these skills, some accessories will go a long way in making such models realistic and appealing to the sight, just like the real model.

What Accessories Do You Need for Scale Model Toys?

The accessories required may differ depending on the skill level and type of model that you intend to build. However, there are some essential accessories that any scale model enthusiast should have in their toolkit.

Carbon Fibre Tubes

The first thing you need to consider with any scale model is the structure and stability of your creation. You may have to reinforce certain parts of your model with lightweight yet resilient carbon fibres. These tubes are a common sight in the aerospace and automotive industries, so they’re more than suitable for creating a strong, yet stable structure.

Carbon fibres are made up of individual filaments composed of carbon atoms that are formed into tubular sections or flat sheets. They possess great strength combined with a high strength-to-weight ratio, thus enabling the construction of lightweight structures that are quite durable.

To correctly install carbon fibre tubes in your scale model, you will need a few basic tools. First, you’ll want a pair of cutting tools, such as a sharp hobby knife or scissors to cut the tubes to length. You may also want to use sandpaper or a file to lighten any rough edges resulting from the cutting process.

These will be secured in place by an adhesive that is specifically designed for use with carbon fibre materials. These adhesives are usually epoxy-based adhesives that, once cured, offer incredibly high strengths and durability. Make sure that your chosen adhesive is compatible with both the tubes and the materials to which you will be attaching them.

Another benefit of these accessories is their adaptability for numerous purposes. They reinforce your model’s fuselage, wings, landing gear, and even small details like antennas. With them, any part of the model can be strengthened more to help provide overall strength and rigidity.

Besides structural reinforcement, carbon fibre tubes can also help provide a touch of realism to your scale model. Suppose you’re modelling an aircraft where the components are exposed, such as the wingtips or tail. Using the tubes can add some authenticity to your project.

Hinges and Fasteners

The utilization of hinges and fasteners follows for scale modelling to make any moving part of your model functional. These enable smooth movements, thus making your model really look the part.

This will involve paying attention to the size and strength of the hinges and fasteners about the weight of your model. Larger, heavier models will require stronger hinges and fasteners to carry the weight without compromising stability, while smaller ones will require lighter ones to avoid adding extra weight.

Material-wise, metal is often preferred when it comes to durable hinges that bear heavier models, but plastic or resin hinges will just do for small models or in those cases where there is less stress on the moving parts.

For fasteners, one can also use screws, bolts, and even clips. As with hinges, there is the need for careful attention to material and size, according to the requirements of your model.

Paints and Brushes

Besides the physical parts that comprise a scale model, paints and brushes are of paramount importance in bringing your project to life. When working with paints for your model, you must be quite critical about the type of material you will be painting and the level of detail you intend to capture.

Acrylic paints are very popular among hobbyists because they have some desirable qualities: versatile, quick-drying, and are easily thinned or mixed with other colours. Another choice is enamel paints, which are noted for good adhesion and a glossy finish. However, they take longer to dry completely and need more ventilation because of their strong fumes.

You may consider flat, glossy, or metallic paints according to the desired finish. There are also weathering and detailing paints available for very realistic effects of rust, dirt, wear, and so on.

Consider the type of surface on which you will paint, too. Some paints require a primer or base coat to set properly, while others can be applied directly to the surface.

Purchase a selection of fine brushes, which will be handy for close work and details, and several broader brushes, which will prove helpful for broad strokes. It is also convenient to have an assortment of shapes: flat, round, and pointed tips will help to achieve varying effects.

Airbrushing

Another technique that can yield professional results for more advanced hobbyists is airbrushing. This method uses compressed air to spray paint onto the model, allowing for smooth and even coverage.

The main types of airbrushes are single-action and dual-action. Single-action airbrushes are easier to use but give less control to the user over how much paint is being sprayed. Dual-action airbrushes are more skilled to use but give an even more precise application.

Working with the airbrush requires good ventilation and personal protection, like masks, to prevent inhaling fumes and products of decomposition. Practice on scraps beforehand to get the feel of the pressure and techniques that work for specific effects.