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Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your First Gunpla

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Gunpla, short for “Gundam Plastic Models,” is an exciting and rewarding hobby that allows fans to build and customize their own Gundam mecha models. Whether you’re a longtime anime fan or simply looking for a new creative pastime, Gunpla is a great way to combine craftsmanship with artistic expression. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to start your Gunpla journey.

Step 1: Pick a Kit

Choosing the right kit is crucial for beginners. With so many options available, it’s best to start with a High Grade (HG) kit. These kits are designed to be accessible, with fewer parts and a simpler assembly process. Some excellent beginner-friendly kits include:

  • EG RX-78-2 Gundam – The original Gundam and a great entry point into the hobby.
  • EG RX-93 Nu Gundam – The iconic Gundam that battles Char.
  • HG Zaku II – A classic grunt suit with a simple yet fun build.
  • HG Calibarn – Solid HG kit from The Witch of Mercury series.

Starting with a High Grade kit ensures you can get familiar with the building process without feeling overwhelmed. As you gain experience, you can explore more advanced grades like Real Grade (RG), Master Grade (MG), and even Perfect Grade (PG) kits.

Step 2: Grab Some Essential Tools

While Gunpla kits are designed to be snap-fit, meaning no glue is required, having the right tools will help make your build cleaner and more polished. Here’s what you need:

  • Nippers – Used to cut the plastic parts from the sprues cleanly.
  • Tweezers – Help handling small parts, and applying stickers.
  • Hobby Knife – Helps trim excess plastic and refine details.
  • Sanding Stick or File – Smooths out rough edges and removes nub marks.
  • Toothpick – To help with placing decals in hard to reach places.

These basic tools will significantly improve the quality of your build and make the process more enjoyable.

Step 3: Follow the Instructions

Gunpla manuals are designed to be user-friendly, even if you don’t read Japanese. They provide clear, step-by-step visual guides on how to assemble each part. Follow these tips to ensure a smooth building experience:

  • Take it one step at a time – Rushing can lead to mistakes.
  • Pay attention to part orientation – Some pieces may look similar but have subtle differences.
  • Test fit before snapping pieces together – This helps prevent assembly errors.

Step 4: Take Your Time & Enjoy the Process

This is the most important Step. Gunpla is not a race—it’s about the joy of building. Taking your time allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and enjoy the meditative process of assembling each piece. Some builders even find Gunpla to be a great way to relax and de-stress.

So, are you ready to build?

Starting your Gunpla journey is easier than you think. With the right kit, tools, and mindset, you’ll be on your way to creating stunning models in no time. So what are you waiting for? Gunpla is freedom—start building today!