I’m Mizozuman2. I’m 16, almost 17 and I’ve been building model cars for almost 2 years now.
Lately, I’ve been getting a lot more into the hobby, and since christmas is soon coming up, I thought I’d get some info on what tools and other things to get with any money I may get. after christmas, my birthday comes, and I usually get $100 from my grandparents, and I would like to use some of that as well. What tools do you all suggest I get, other than the obvious things like Paint Brushes, Airbrush, sand paper, finishing paper, Etc. Also, what sites do you recommend for buying things?
After building cars for 2 years, you should have most of the basic tools that you would need for anything else. The other things that you would need can be gotten in dribs and drabs as you find the need for them. I’m 72 and have been building for 66 of those years. I just bought my first airbrush about 3 or 4 years ago. I built my spraybooth out of an old kitchen cabinet. I’m starting to learn how to use the airbrush. Take your time and the tools you need will pop up. There will probably be a lot of guys here that will help you get just what you need when you need them. I personally order most of the things that I need from Squadron. They have decent prices and GREAT service.
I almost forgot. The guys, and gals, on here love to see pics of your builds. That keeps them really happy. Sit back and enjoy the hobby.
Even if you have a hobby knife, like an X-acto handle, it is never a bad idea to have two or three handles with different blades in them. The #11 is the real workhorse, but sometimes a blade with a greater angle, for heavier cutting, and another blade that you just use for scraping. This is an old blade, with the point maybe broken off or dull, but the edge can be used for scraping. Scraping dulls the edge, but it does not need to be super-sharp for scraping.
It’s not that great since it was the first car I’ve done in about 25-30 years hehehe.
As far as tools and gadgets go, I highly recommend the Touch-N-Flow system especially for joining engines and axles. It welds the plastic and if done right leaves no seam. Hobby Lobby carries the kit and with a 40% off coupon it only runs about 9 bucks. Well worth the investment.