Gundam Scratch Build Manual: A Must-Have for Scratch Builders
Scratch Built Revolution: A Guide to Building Your Own Gundam Models
If you are a fan of Gundam, you might have seen some amazing models that look like they came straight out of the anime. These models are not just assembled from kits, but are customized and enhanced by their builders using various techniques and materials. This is called scratch building, and it is a hobby that can take your Gundam models to the next level.
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In this article, we will explain what scratch building is, why you might want to try it, what you need to start, and how to master some basic and advanced techniques. We will also introduce you to a book that can help you learn more about scratch building: Scratch Build Revolution by Blublek Studio.
Introduction
What is scratch building?
Scratch building is the process of creating or modifying parts for your Gundam models using materials such as plastic sheets, rods, tubes, metal wires, screws, nuts, bolts, etc. You can use these materials to add details, change proportions, create new weapons or accessories, or even build a whole new model from scratch.
Scratch building is different from kitbashing, which is the process of combining parts from different kits to create a new model. Kitbashing is easier and faster than scratch building, but it has its limitations. You can only use the parts that are available in the kits, and you might have compatibility issues or gaps between them. Scratch building gives you more freedom and creativity to make your model exactly how you want it.
Why scratch build?
There are many reasons why you might want to try scratch building. Here are some of them:
You can express your own style and vision for your model. You can make it more realistic, more futuristic, more anime-like, or anything else you can imagine.
You can improve your skills and knowledge of Gundam modeling. You can learn how to work with different materials and tools, how to design and engineer your parts, how to paint and weather your model, etc.
You can challenge yourself and have fun. Scratch building can be a rewarding and enjoyable hobby that lets you experiment with new ideas and overcome difficulties.
You can impress others with your unique and original model. You can show off your work online or in contests and get feedback and recognition from other Gundam fans.
What do you need to start scratch building?
To start scratch building, you will need some basic tools and materials that you can find in any hobby store or online. Here are some of them:
A cutting mat: This is a surface that protects your table from scratches and cuts when you work with sharp tools.
A hobby knife: This is a tool that has a sharp blade that you can use to cut plastic sheets and rods.
A ruler: This is a tool that helps you measure and mark your parts accurately.
A pencil: This is a tool that helps you draw lines and shapes on your parts before cutting them.
A file: This is a tool that helps you smooth and shape your parts after cutting them.
A sandpaper: This is a material that helps you remove rough edges and scratches from your parts.
A glue: This is a material that helps you stick your parts together. You can use different types of glue depending on the material and the strength of the bond you need.
A putty: This is a material that helps you fill gaps and holes in your parts. You can use different types of putty depending on the size and shape of the gap and the color of the part.
A plastic sheet: This is a material that you can use to create flat parts such as armor plates, wings, etc. You can use different thicknesses and colors of plastic sheets depending on your needs.
A plastic rod: This is a material that you can use to create round or cylindrical parts such as pipes, beams, barrels, etc. You can use different diameters and colors of plastic rods depending on your needs.
A plastic tube: This is a material that you can use to create hollow parts such as hoses, wires, cables, etc. You can use different diameters and colors of plastic tubes depending on your needs.
A metal wire: This is a material that you can use to create flexible parts such as springs, antennas, etc. You can use different gauges and colors of metal wires depending on your needs.
A metal screw: This is a material that you can use to create realistic details such as bolts, rivets, etc. You can use different sizes and colors of metal screws depending on your needs.
A metal nut: This is a material that you can use to create realistic details such as nuts, washers, etc. You can use different sizes and colors of metal nuts depending on your needs.
A metal bolt: This is a material that you can use to create realistic details such as bolts, pins, etc. You can use different sizes and colors of metal bolts depending on your needs.
Of course, these are not the only tools and materials you can use for scratch building. You can also use other things such as styrene strips, wood sticks, foam boards, resin casts, decals, LED lights, etc. The only limit is your imagination and budget.
Basic Techniques
Cutting and shaping plastic sheets and rods
One of the most common techniques for scratch building is cutting and shaping plastic sheets and rods. Here are some steps to follow:
Draw the shape of the part you want to make on the plastic sheet or rod using a pencil and a ruler. Make sure the shape is accurate and proportional to your model.
Cut the shape out using a hobby knife. Be careful not to cut yourself or damage the plastic sheet or rod.
Smooth the edges of the part using a file or a sandpaper. Remove any burrs or excess plastic.
Shape the part using a file or a sandpaper. You can make curves, angles, bevels, etc. depending on the design of the part.
Test fit the part on your model. Make sure it fits well and looks good. If not, make adjustments using a file or a sandpaper until you are satisfied.
Gluing and filling gaps
Another common technique for scratch building is gluing and filling gaps. Here are some steps to follow:
Apply glue to the parts you want to stick together. You can use different types of glue depending on the material and the strength of the bond you need. For example, you can use super glue for instant and strong bonding, plastic cement for melting and fusing plastic parts, epoxy glue for filling large gaps and creating strong joints, etc.
Press the parts together firmly and hold them until the glue sets. Be careful not to get glue on your fingers or other parts of your model.
Check for any gaps or holes between the parts. If there are any, fill them with putty. You can use different types of putty depending on the size and shape of the gap and the color of the part. For example, you can use basic putty for small and simple gaps, epoxy putty for large and complex gaps, white putty for light-colored parts, etc.
Smooth the putty using a file or a sandpaper. Remove any excess putty or glue.
Scribing panel lines and details
Another common technique for scratch building is scribing panel lines and details. Here are some steps to follow:
Draw the panel lines and details you want to make on your part using a pencil and a ruler. Make sure the lines and details are accurate and proportional to your model.
Scribe the lines and details using a scriber or a needle. A scriber is a tool that has a sharp tip that you can use to carve lines and details on plastic parts. A needle is a cheaper alternative that you can use with a pin vise or a pen holder. Be careful not to slip or scratch the part.
Smooth the lines and details using a file or a sandpaper. Remove any burrs or excess plastic.
Test fit the part on your model. Make sure it fits well and looks good. If not, make adjustments using a file or a sandpaper until you are satisfied.
Adding metal parts and decals
Another common technique for scratch building is adding metal parts and decals. Here are some steps to follow:
Select the metal parts and decals you want to add to your model. You can use different types of metal parts and decals depending on your needs. For example, you can use metal thrusters, screws, nuts, bolts, wires, etc. for realistic details, LED lights for effects, resin weapon packs for customization, etc.
Drill holes or cut slots on your model where you want to insert or attach the metal parts. You can use a pin vise or a hobby knife for this. Be careful not to damage your model or yourself.
Insert or attach the metal parts using glue or screws. You can use different types of glue or screws depending on the material and the strength of the bond you need. For example, you can use super glue for instant and strong bonding, plastic cement for melting and fusing plastic parts, epoxy glue for filling large gaps and creating strong joints, etc.
Apply decals to your model following the instructions on the decal sheet. You can use different types of decals depending on your needs. For example, you can use sticker decals for easy application, dry transfer decals for thin and smooth appearance, water slide decals for precise and flexible placement, etc.
Smooth the decals using a decal softener or a cotton swab. A decal softener is a liquid that helps the decals conform to the surface of the model and remove air bubbles. A cotton swab is a cheaper alternative that you can use to press and rub the decals gently.
Advanced Techniques
Modifying existing parts and kits
One of the advanced techniques for scratch building is modifying existing parts and kits. Here are some steps to follow:
Select the parts and kits you want to modify. You can use parts and kits from different Gundam series, scales, grades, etc. depending on your needs.
Cut off or trim the parts you don't need or want to change using a hobby knife or a nipper. Be careful not to cut off or trim too much.
Combine or attach the parts you want to use using glue or screws. You can use different types of glue or screws depending on the material and the strength of the bond you need.
Fill any gaps or holes between the parts using putty. You can use different types of putty depending on the size and shape of the gap and the color of the part.
Smooth and shape the parts using a file or a sandpaper. Remove any excess putty or glue.
Add details such as panel lines, metal parts, decals, etc. using the techniques described above.
Creating custom parts and molds
Another advanced technique for scratch building is creating custom parts and molds. Here are some steps to follow:
Design the part you want to create using a pencil and a paper. Make sure the design is accurate and proportional to your model.
Create a prototype of the part using plastic sheets, rods, tubes, etc. using the techniques described above.
Create a mold of the part using silicone rubber or resin. Silicone rubber is a material that can be mixed with a catalyst and poured over the prototype to create a flexible mold. Resin is a material that can be mixed with a hardener and poured over the prototype to create a rigid mold.
Cure the mold according to the instructions on the package. This can take from a few minutes to a few hours depending on the material and the size of the mold.
Remove the prototype from the mold carefully. You might need to cut or peel off the mold to do this.
Cast the part using resin or plastic. Resin is a material that can be mixed with a hardener and poured into the mold to create a solid part. Plastic is a material that can be melted and injected into the mold to create a solid part.
Cure the part according to the instructions on the package. This can take from a few minutes to a few hours depending on the material and the size of the part.
Remove the part from the mold carefully. You might need to cut or peel off the mold to do this.
Smooth and shape the part using a file or a sandpaper. Remove any excess resin or plastic.
Add details such as panel lines, metal parts, decals, etc. using the techniques described above.
Painting and weathering
Another advanced technique for scratch building is painting and weathering. Here are some steps to follow:
Select the colors and paints you want to use for your model. You can use different types of colors and paints depending on your needs. For example, you can use acrylic paints for easy application and cleaning, enamel paints for glossy and durable finish, lacquer paints for fast drying and strong adhesion, etc.
Prepare your model for painting by washing it with water and soap, removing any dust or grease, masking any parts you don't want to paint, etc.
Apply a primer coat to your model using an airbrush or a spray can. A primer coat is a layer of paint that helps the main color adhere better to the surface of the model and cover any imperfections.
Apply a main color coat to your model using an airbrush or a spray can. A main color coat is a layer of paint that gives your model its base color and appearance.
Apply a top coat to your model using an airbrush or a spray can. A top coat is a layer of paint that protects your model from scratches and dust, and gives it a matte, semi-gloss, or gloss finish depending on your preference.
Apply weathering effects to your model using various techniques and materials. Weathering effects are methods of making your model look more realistic by adding signs of wear and tear, such as dirt, rust, scratches, dents, etc. For example, you can use dry brushing, washing, chipping, filtering, streaking, etc.
Applying LED lights and effects
Another advanced technique for scratch building is applying LED lights and effects. Here are some steps to follow:
Select the LED lights and effects you want to add to your model. You can use different types of LED lights and effects depending on your needs. For example, you can use LED strips, wires, bulbs, etc. for lighting up eyes, thrusters, weapons, etc., sound modules for making noises, motion sensors for activating functions, etc.
Drill holes or cut slots on your model where you want to insert or attach the LED lights and effects. You can use a pin vise or a hobby knife for this. Be careful not to damage your model or yourself.
Insert or attach the LED lights and effects using glue or screws. You can use different types of glue or screws depending on the material and the strength of the bond you need.
Connect the LED lights and effects using wires and batteries. You can use different types of wires and batteries depending on the voltage and current you need. For example, you can use copper wires for conducting electricity, solder wires for joining wires together, button batteries for small models, AA batteries for large models, etc.
Hide the wires and batteries inside your model or in a base. You can use plastic sheets, rods, tubes, etc. to create compartments or covers for hiding them.
Test the LED lights and effects on your model. Make sure they work well and look good. If not, make adjustments until you are satisfied.
Conclusion
Summary of main points
In this article, we have explained what scratch building is, why you might want to try it, what you need to start, and how to master some basic and advanced techniques. We have also introduced you to a book that can help you learn more about scratch building: Scratch Build Revolution by Blublek Studio.
Scratch building is a hobby that can take your Gundam models to the next level by adding details, changing proportions, creating new weapons or accessories, or even building a whole new model from scratch.
Scratch Build Revolution by Blublek Studio is a book that can help you learn more about scratch building. It is a 160-page book that contains tutorials, tips, and examples of scratch building techniques for Gundam models. It covers topics such as cutting and shaping plastic sheets and rods, gluing and filling gaps, scribing panel lines and details, adding metal parts and decals, modifying existing parts and kits, creating custom parts and molds, painting and weathering, applying LED lights and effects, etc. It also comes with a free side cutter and other scratch building tools.
Scratch Build Revolution by Blublek Studio is available in English language and can be ordered online from various websites. It is a good book especially for those who want to start scratch building with their Gunpla and for those who want to improve their skills and knowledge of Gundam modeling.
Tips and tricks for scratch building
Here are some tips and tricks for scratch building that can help you make your model better:
Plan your model before you start. Sketch your design on paper or use a software to create a 3D model. This will help you visualize your model and avoid mistakes.
Do your research. Look for references and inspirations from other Gundam models, anime, movies, games, etc. This will help you create a realistic and original model.
Be creative. Don't be afraid to experiment with new ideas and materials. You can use anything that suits your model, such as styrene strips, wood sticks, foam boards, resin casts, decals, LED lights, etc.
Be patient. Scratch building takes time and effort. Don't rush or force your model. Take breaks and enjoy the process.
Be careful. Scratch building involves using sharp tools and materials. Wear gloves and goggles to protect yourself from cuts and injuries.
Have fun. Scratch building is a hobby that can bring you joy and satisfaction. Share your work with others and get feedback and recognition.
Resources and references
Here are some resources and references that can help you learn more about scratch building:
RedvalGunpla1989: SCRATCH BUILD REVOLUTION BY BLUBEK STUDIO: A blog post that reviews the book Scratch Build Revolution by Blublek Studio.
How to easily apply Bandai Gundam stickers and decals! Bandai Gunpla Basics: A video tutorial that shows how to apply gundam stickers and marking decals on to a gundam plastic model.
Cosmetic Modifications To Gunpla Those Gundam Guys: A website that provides tips and examples of cosmetic modifications to Gunpla.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about scratch building:
What is the difference between scratch building and kitbashing?
Scratch building is the process of creating or modifying parts for your Gundam models using materials such as plastic sheets, rods, tubes, metal wires, screws, nuts, bolts, etc. Kitbashing is the process of combining parts from different kits to create a new model.
What are the best tools and materials for scratch building?
The best tools and materials for scratch building depend on your needs and preferences. Some of the most common tools and material