Gundam Model Tips and Techniques From a Master Builder!

Summary

In this engaging conversation at WonderFest, Norm interviews Matt from Matt's Models Customs about the resurgence of Gundam model building, especially during the pandemic. Matt explains the appeal of Gunpla and Gundam models, their ease of entry for beginners, and the creative freedom in building resin kits. He details his meticulous process of transforming a 15-year-old resin kit into a detailed masterpiece, including cleaning, scribing, painting with pre-shading, and meticulous masking. The discussion highlights the artistry and craftsmanship involved in model building, showcasing the dedication and skill required to create show-worthy pieces.

Takeaways

• 🎥 The video features an interview with Matt from Matt's Models Customs at WonderFest in Louisville, Kentucky, discussing the resurgence of Gundam model building.
• 🚀 Matt notes a significant increase in the Gundam community over the past 5-6 years, partly due to people rediscovering hobbies during the pandemic.
• 👶 Gunpla (Gundam plastic model kits) are described as user-friendly and suitable for all ages, with a wide range of complexity, making them accessible to beginners.
• 🛠️ Basic tools for building Gunpla are minimal, primarily consisting of nippers, similar to nail clippers, which are essential for trimming parts.
• 🗝️ The interview delves into the world of resin Gundam kits, which are less commercialized and often created by enthusiasts, offering unique designs not available in plastic kits.
• 📐 Matt explains the process of building a resin kit, which includes dealing with fit issues, scribing panel lines, and ensuring stability in the final model.
• 🎨 The video highlights the use of magnets for assembly, the importance of pre-shading, and the meticulous process of painting and detailing the model.
• 🔍 Matt discusses the challenges of working with old resin kits, including dealing with dried-out transfers and the need for careful preparation and painting.
• 🛡️ The process of masking and painting is emphasized, with Matt detailing the order of operations and the precision required for clean results.
• 💡 Lighting is incorporated into the model, with Matt crediting a company called Evans Design for helping with the challenge of illuminating the model.
• 🏆 The final product is a highly detailed, clean, and professional-looking scale model, showcasing the skill and patience required in the hobby.

Q & A

What event is Norm from Tested attending in the script?

Norm from Tested is attending WonderFest in Louisville, Kentucky.

Who is Matt from Matt's Models Customs and what does he specialize in?

Matt is a model builder who specializes in building and customizing Gundam models, including resin kits.

What has contributed to the surge in the Gundam community according to Matt?

The surge in the Gundam community is attributed to the pandemic, where people were home and rediscovering their hobbies, and the ease of getting into Gunpla or Gundam model building due to its user-friendly nature.

What is the basic tool needed to start building Gunpla according to the conversation?

The basic tool needed to start building Gunpla is a pair of nippers, which are similar to nail clippers.

What is a resin kit in the context of Gundam modeling?

A resin kit refers to a type of model kit made from resin material, often produced in smaller quantities or by independent creators, and may require more advanced building techniques compared to plastic kits.

How does Matt ensure the stability and assembly of a full resin kit model?

Matt ensures stability and assembly by using techniques such as scribing panel lines deeply, engineering the assembly to stay together, and using magnets for detachable parts.

What is the process Matt uses for pre-shading on a Gunpla model?

Matt uses a pre-shading process where he applies a black base coat and then applies white highlights underneath the red color to control the contrast of shading.

Why does Matt prefer using Mr. Color paints for the red parts of the model?

Matt prefers Mr. Color paints for the red parts because of their quality and the simplicity of application, which involves a mist coat followed by one wet coat.

What is the significance of the masking process in building a detailed Gunpla model?

The masking process is significant as it allows for precise painting of detailed areas and prevents paint from spreading onto unwanted areas, ensuring a clean finish.

How does Matt address the challenge of using old dry transfers that have dried out?

Matt addresses the challenge by carefully cutting out the dry transfers and using clear masking tape to apply them. He also mentions having to surgically place some letters that did not release from the protective paper.

What is the final step in Matt's process after applying the paint and decals to the model?

The final step in Matt's process is applying a high gloss coat for a shiny finish, followed by the final assembly of the model, including the installation of lighting if applicable.