How to Modify Plastic Model Kits for a Custom Look

Transform ordinary kits into extraordinary masterpieces with these expert customisation techniques

Plastic model kits offer a brilliant canvas for creativity, allowing enthusiasts to build, paint, and showcase intricate replicas of their favourite vehicles, figures, and dioramas. However, taking your models beyond the standard out-of-the-box design through customisation can transform a stock model into a unique masterpiece that truly stands out. At Hearns Hobbies, we're passionate about helping modellers elevate their craft with the right tools and techniques.

Model Kit Customisation at a Glance
Customisation Types	Kitbashing, scratch-building, detailing, weathering, custom painting
Key Benefits	Unique models, enhanced realism, personalised collections, advanced skill development
Skill Levels	Beginner to advanced, with techniques suitable for all experience levels
Essential Tools	Cutting tools, files, putty, paints, adhesives

Understanding Model Kit Customisation

Customising plastic model kits allows you to express your creativity and build something truly unique. Whether you're a beginner looking to make small modifications or an experienced modeller aiming to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece, the possibilities are endless. The art of customisation brings your personal vision to life and develops valuable modelling skills along the way.

Essential Tools for Model Customisation

Before diving into your customisation project, gathering the proper tools is crucial for achieving professional results. A well-equipped modelling toolbox will make the modification process smoother and more enjoyable. The right tools not only improve precision but also expand the range of techniques you can employ.

Tool Category	Essential Items	How They Help
Cutting & Trimming	Hobby knives, sprue cutters, razor saws	Precise removal of parts, creating custom shapes, trimming flash
Shaping & Refining	Files, sanding sticks, needle files	Smoothing surfaces, refining edges, creating texture
Filling & Sculpting	Modelling putty, epoxy clay, gap fillers	Filling seams, building new shapes, repairing imperfections
Bonding & Assembly	Plastic cement, super glue, two-part epoxy	Joining parts, creating strong bonds, different material compatibility
Detail Work	Tweezers, pin vices, scribing tools	Adding panel lines, creating rivets, handling tiny parts

Invest in quality tools that feel comfortable in your hands. Remember that good tools will serve you across many projects, making them a worthwhile investment for any serious modeller.

Kitbashing: Mixing and Matching for Unique Creations

Kitbashing is perhaps the most accessible form of model customisation, involving the creative combination of parts from multiple kits to create something entirely new. This technique has been embraced by professional model makers for decades, famously used in creating props and vehicles for science fiction films. With kitbashing, you're limited only by your kit collection and imagination.

Steps for Successful Kitbashing:

1. Plan Your Vision: Sketch or visualise your concept before cutting any parts. Having a clear plan helps prevent wasted materials and guides your kit selections.
2. Compatible Scales: Try to use kits of similar scales for more natural-looking combinations. However, deliberate scale mismatches can create interesting effects for fantasy or sci-fi models.
3. Test-Fit Everything: Always dry-fit parts before applying adhesives. This step allows for adjustments and prevents permanent mistakes.
4. Blend Seamlessly: Use modelling putty to smooth transitions between different kit parts, creating a cohesive final appearance.
5. Unify With Paint: A consistent paint scheme helps tie disparate parts together, making them look like they were always meant to be combined.

Scratch-Building: Creating Custom Parts from Raw Materials

When you can't find the exact part you need or envision something entirely original, scratch-building allows you to create custom components from basic materials. This technique requires more advanced skills but offers unlimited creative freedom. With practice, you'll be able to fabricate nearly any detail imaginable using plastic card, styrene rods, wire, and other modelling materials.

Common Scratch-Building Materials:

• Plastic Card and Sheet: Available in various thicknesses, perfect for custom panels, armour plates, and structural elements.
• Styrene Profiles: Rods, tubes, and strips that can be shaped into supports, pipes, and countless other details.
• Wire: Flexible material ideal for cables, antennas, handles, and fine details.
• Brass Rod and Tubing: Stronger than plastic, excellent for load-bearing components and moving parts.
• Epoxy Putty: Two-part sculpting material that can be shaped, carved, and sanded once cured.

Detail Enhancement Techniques

Adding extra details to your model can dramatically improve its realism and visual interest. These enhancements range from simple additions to complex modifications, each contributing to a more impressive final result. Even subtle detailing can elevate a standard kit to competition-worthy status when executed with care and precision.

Technique	Description	Tools Required
Panel Line Scribing	Creating fine lines to represent panel separations and access hatches	Scribing tool, ruler, dymo tape as guide
Rivet/Bolt Addition	Adding tiny fasteners for mechanical authenticity	Punching tool, styrene rod, nail heads
Photo-Etched Parts	Incorporating ultra-thin metal details for ultimate realism	Tweezers, CA glue, metal bending tools
Internal Detailing	Adding cockpit, engine, or interior details	Fine brushes, magnifying glass, fine wire
Surface Texturing	Creating realistic surface finishes (metal, fabric, wood)	Sanding tools, stippling brushes, textured putty

Custom Painting and Weathering

A unique paint scheme is perhaps the most dramatic way to customise your model. From bold alternative colour schemes to subtle historical variations, your painting choices can completely transform a kit's appearance. Add realistic weathering effects to tell a visual story about your model's fictional history and environment.

Custom Painting Process:

1. Surface Preparation: Clean parts thoroughly and apply primer for optimal paint adhesion.
2. Base Coating: Apply your primary colours, either by hand with quality brushes or using an airbrush for the smoothest finish.
3. Detail Painting: Add smaller colour blocks, highlights, and fine details with precision brushes.
4. Decals and Markings: Apply decals or custom-made markings for authentic identification badges, insignias, and text.
5. Weathering: Implement various effects to simulate use, age, and environmental exposure.
6. Sealing: Protect your work with an appropriate clear coat (matte, satin, or gloss depending on the subject).

Popular Weathering Techniques:

• Dry Brushing: Using a nearly dry brush to highlight raised details, creating the appearance of worn edges.
• Washes: Applying thin, dark paint to recessed areas to enhance depth and shadow.
• Chipping: Creating paint chips and scratches to show metal beneath, simulating wear and tear.
• Rust and Corrosion: Adding realistic oxidation effects using specialized products or pigments.
• Dust and Dirt: Applying subtle layers of earth-toned powders to represent environmental exposure.
• Oil, Fuel, and Grime: Strategic placement of glossy stains and streaks to show operational use.

Overcoming Common Customisation Challenges

Even experienced modellers encounter obstacles when customising kits. Understanding common problems and their solutions will help you navigate difficulties with confidence. Patience and problem-solving are essential skills for successful model customisation, often making the difference between an abandoned project and a triumphant completion.

Challenge	Solution
Parts from different kits don't align properly	Use putty to build up areas or files to trim down others. Create custom adapter pieces from plastic card if necessary.
Paint peeling or not adhering properly	Always clean parts thoroughly before painting, use appropriate primer, and allow adequate drying time between coats.
Visible seams between customised parts	Fill gaps with modelling putty, sand smooth, and check under a coat of primer before final painting.
Structural weakness in modified areas	Reinforce with wire, brass rod, or pinning techniques. Consider using stronger adhesives like epoxy for load-bearing joints.
Overworking weathering effects	Build up effects gradually in thin layers. Remember it's easier to add more than to remove excess. Use reference images as guides for realistic levels of wear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Customising plastic model kits transforms the hobby from simple assembly to true artistic expression. Whether through kitbashing, scratch-building, detailing, or creative painting, these techniques allow you to create truly unique pieces that showcase your personal vision and skill. The journey from standard kit to custom masterpiece not only results in a one-of-a-kind model but also develops valuable modelling techniques that carry forward into future projects.

As you embark on your customisation journey, remember that patience and practice are your greatest allies. Start with smaller modifications before tackling ambitious projects, and don't be afraid to experiment with new techniques. Every modeller develops their own signature style through experimentation and occasional missteps. Build your toolbox gradually, investing in quality items that feel comfortable and produce consistent results.