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By Martin Klein

Building and improving the Honda RC166 GP Racer: a step by step for novices - Tamiya 1/12 scale The Honda RC166 is the first historical racing bike of the 60’s that Tamiya ever made. This era of racing was full of technical innovations and so the RC166 is a 250cc 6 cylinder 4 stroke engine with 4 valves per cylinder and double overhead camshafts.

By Antonio Busciglio

Superdetailing the Tamiya Honda NSR500 1984 – 1/12 scale This article is about the assembly and detailing of the Tamiya Honda NSR500 from 1984, using the awesome Hobby Design detail set and other aftermarket stuff, such as rivets, bolts heads and so on. The model is a recent release from Tamiya, and the detail of the kit is astonishing. Given the very peculiar characteristic of this motorcycle, as the fuel tank placed below the engine, and the exhausts infront of the driver’s chest, I decided to show the cowling not placed on the chassis.

By Michael Capell

Building the Wingnuts Wings Albatros D.V #32009 - 1/32 scale If I had to choose my favorite aircraft from the WW1 era, it would have to the Albatros D.V. For me it has a certain character and design which makes it stand out from the crowd. Add the four different colour schemes included , with more on the way, makes it a must buy for the discerning modeller.

By David Guardia

Building the Bronco M-24 Chaffee 35069 1/35 scale My dear friend, J.J Aos, who is himself an encyclopedia, gave me all the necessary information to place it in Pakistan. Although it is common to find pictures of Chaffles of late production, the early ones were also seen, included in the last Pakistan's 1971 conflict with India. Of course, exactly when I finished my model painting, Bronco Models offer the final release, Have you heard of Murphy’s law…?

By Allon Kira

Building the Tamiya Mitsubishi A6M3 Zero 1/48 scale The model is characterized by a good level of details and an excellent level of accuracy. The build was done without any special issues. I assembled it directly out of the box except for two minor additions: Eduard WWII seat belts for Japanese aircraft and Eduard canopy mask for A6M3 – EUEX318, although the kit included canopy masks, but I was not aware of the matter when ordering the kit.

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

Customizing the Tamiya Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA 1600 #24188 1/24 scale In the racing car world, Alfa Romeo is one of the most legendary and mythical Italian name, and each of its vehicles is synonymous with beauty, style, and racing. Precisely, the Giulia Sprint GTA, is the version which this tutorial is dedicated to. A road car, with sporty and personalized characteristics. This is the kind of car that can be found in various classic vehicle activities today.

By Matej Paluda

Defender of Stalingrad or how to make winter camouflage Tamiya 1/35 scale To build this model, I used the old Tamiya´s T-34/76, 1943 kit. Although its moulds are from the eighties of 20th century, it is still good and with nice detailing. This article is intended for newcomers to armor modelling showing how to make a winter camouflage.

By Geo Tziafas

Kitbashing the Tamiya Ferrari F40 photo array 1/24 scale We use to publish large tutorials plenty of pictures and large texts, but when I saw these pictures I realized that this probably wouldn't need anything more, sometimes happens. Looking the pictures I understood all the process… besides not always contributors want to spend extra time writing, when already inverted thousand of hours building taking pictures…etc. I hope you enjoy the pictures as I did, thanks Geo!

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

Building the VW 1300 Beetle 1963 - Herbie - Tamiya 1/24 scale The Volkswagen Beetle is undoubtedly one of the most popular cars in all the history. The attractive and singular body’s shape has turned it into an icon in our recent history. At the end of the 60s, Disney Studios decide to immortalize the small car taking it to the cinema screen in Herbie, a movie in which this beetle played a central role and five sequences came later. The first movie The Love Bug which was known in Spain as Ahí va ese Bólido, was premiered in 1969.

By David Guardia

Building the Bandai Star Wars AT-ST 1/48 scale The idea of assembling and painting this model was swirling around in my head since some time ago. It’s one of the vehicles of the saga I like best and besides, Bandai, the brand that introduced it on the market, is a very recognized one for manufacturing excellent models with “snap” perfect fit without the need of glue and highly detailed.

By Pablo Raggi

Improving the ZIL-157 – Trumpeter #1001 1/35 scale The Zil 157 is par excellence perhaps, a general purpose cargo truck and troops transport and for its performance it also served as the tractor for the SA-2 missiles. Although its production stopped many decades ago, still it can be seen in several countries. One of the users of this truck was Egypt and this is the version I decided to do.

By Fabrice Marechal

Building the Porsche Turbo RSR 934 Jagermeister – Tamiya #24328 1/24 scale It was in 1978 when I saw for the first time, the Tamiya Porsche 934 at a hobby shop. Though, the 1/12 model was built straight from the box and without paint, the details seemed to be surrealist and impossible to imagine up to that moment. It was my first approach to that Tamiya kit in 1/12 scale. Perhaps, with the aim of re releasing that success, several years ago Tamiya manufactured the same car, winner of so many championships, but in 1/24 (the most popular scale) which is the subject of this article that aims at helping the less experienced modeler to build the new Tamiya Porsche.

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

Building the Fujimi Mazda RX7 Greddy 9 - 1/24 scale On several occasions, when surfing around HLJ, I saw the Greedy 9 on sale. To be honest, the tuning aspect of the art box showing this magnificent green Mazda RX-7, tempted me more than once, but it didn’t get me very excited cause in the short description of the kit, I realized that this is one of those models which doesn’t feature a detailed engine, and this is exactly, what I like, to get detailed engines. But, in the end, that tempting picture of the box really convinced me, thus I ordered it.

By Pablo Raggi

GAZ 66, building it as a tactical truck Revell #03051, 1/35 scale Since time ago, I’ve been thinking to add a wheeled vehicle to my Middle East vehicles collection. Looking for an interesting kit, I found the Revell Gaz-66 (ref.03051), which is also marketed by Eastern Express. However, after investigating, I realized that there were just a few versions to accomplish Quite apart from the soviet green, there was not much to play.

By Fabrice Marechal

Building the Tamiya Mercedes 300SL #24338 1/24 scale Looking at the photos of a real 300SL body, we find out Tamiya have made an excellent work. However, it’s possible to go even further and give the body of this Mercedes an additional touch of realism. Regarding the chassis Tamiya also made a hard work with the tubular frame, very realistic indeed! besides of being quite simple to assemble. The engine and cockpit are not far behind. To paint this marvel, I chose silver that is unavoidable for this beauty. So, the aim of this article is to share with the reader the building, painting and weathering process of some parts, in such a way that they can be reproduced by a modeller with a minimum of experience.

By Christian Franke

Building the Lancia Stratos HF Rally #4 Pirelli 1978 San Remo - Doyusha 1/12 scale Doyusha offered both in the 90s and later only the Monte Carlo’s, making finally the San Remo Rally with the Pirelli team livery. I’ve been trying to get this kit but it’s discontinued although still it’s possible to find it from some online stores/shops and on ebay. I bought one that had been partially built, which involves double work, missing parts, etc.  This article aims at sharing with pictures the experience to rescue and old odd kit, improving it to the best of my skills.  

By Mario Covalski

Building the Tamiya Brabham BT44 a step by step for newcomers 1/12 scale Among the articles I had in mind to write about, there was one that headed my list, and without any doubt, It was about the Brabham BT44. By the end of my youth, I saw this beautiful, simple and successful car, running in Buenos Aires, driven by Carlos Reutemann, one of the most expert F1 drivers of the last 30 years. The purpose of this note is to show simple guidelines following the instruction manual steps, recommending some details that can be applied to improve even more the original Tamiya kit.

Techniques | Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Minardi M193 Ford: step by step Tamiya Lotus 107B Conversion 1/20 scale


By William Chan

Minardi was one of the F1 privateer teams that had never won any grand prix and they were often missed because most of the attention are put on big name teams. Although the team often run with limited budget, Minardi team's strong determination made them on the F1 grid for almost 15 years. None of the major model manufacturers makes Minardi F1. So far I only see Modelers' M198, Club M's M197, Wolf's PS-01 and AMC M193. I found that M193 shape is pretty close to Lotus 107B and McLaren MP4/8. So I bought an AMC M193 decal and tried out the conversion. After more than 15 months of on and off building, the car is finally completed.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial | 2023 | January 2023

Hasegawa Lamborghini Jota SVR (1975) #21214, 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

I built the model straight out of the box, using all the parts included in the kit, and I have added some details in the engine that, although it is not exposed, but it was fun and the work has been reflected in the photos. I added some wires, and generic photo-etched screw heads. These photo-etched parts were also used to detail some other parts of the model. For the paint, a Lamborghini orange tone called Arancio Miura (Gravity Colors Ref. GC-1194) was chosen, and thus, make a different proposal to the red finish proposed by Hasegawa.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/8 Scale | Online Articles | PDF tutorial | 2022 | November 2022

Detailing the IXOcollections / Eaglemoss Mercedes 300 SL 1/8 scale, photo array


By Mario Covalski

With this photo array (one picture says more than thousand words sometimes) I share with the reader my experience with the model (I put together two) adding many missing details, not all, painting parts and applying plastic modelling techniques to improve the appearance of this expensive model. Also solving some problems that the kit has and showing tips and tricks to improve or facilitate its assembly.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial | 2022 | October 2022

Building and detailing the Tamiya Honda NSX 2015 #24344, 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

For this tutorial I built the model straight out of the box, and except for some generic decals with logos, I've used almost all of the parts provided in the box. The custom paint scheme was my idea, seeking a harmony of black areas, combined with a metallic dark gray base, alternated with fluorescent red/orange details, a very explosive mix of finishes that gives the model great dynamism. Below I share with the reader the steps I took to assemble the model of this 2015 Honda NSX, starting with the bodywork.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | Online Articles | PDF tutorial | 2022 | June 2022

Kitbashing the Tamiya Ferrari F40 photo array 1/24 scale


By Geo Tziafas

We use to publish large tutorials plenty of pictures and large texts, but when I saw these pictures I realized that this probably wouldn't need anything more, sometimes happens. Looking the pictures I understood all the process… besides not always contributors want to spend extra time writing, when already inverted thousand of hours building taking pictures…etc. I hope you enjoy the pictures as I did, thanks Geo!

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial | 2021 | September 2021

Improving the Tamiya Morris Mini Cooper S #24130 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

I built this model under commission for a customer of mine, who asked for a customized sports version, such as the elimination of both bumpers, the hood with forward opening, which allows to show the engine, in addition to other details that will be shown later in the text. As it was a special Mini I decided to write a tutorial including many photos taken during the build and thus share with the reader my experience with this model.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | Armor | 1/35 Scale | PDF tutorial | 2021 | May 2021

Improving the Miniart Mercedes Benz 170V (W136) #35095 1/35 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

I built the Miniart kit in a civil version. It is a model started a few years ago and some of the images that show the assembly process, such as the stage where the interior of the vehicle is detailed, have been damaged and it was impossible to recover them. However, the rest of the process is explained in great detail, and it is my pleasure to share the work done with the readers.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial | 2021 | May 2021

Customizing the Tamiya Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA 1600 #24188 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

In the racing car world, Alfa Romeo is one of the most legendary and mythical Italian name, and each of its vehicles is synonymous with beauty, style, and racing. Precisely, the Giulia Sprint GTA, is the version which this tutorial is dedicated to. A road car, with sporty and personalized characteristics. This is the kind of car that can be found in various classic vehicle activities today.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial | 2021 | April 2021

Improving the Tamiya Jaguar Mk II Saloon 3.8 #24151 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

Although it is an old kit, I always wanted to improve it and finally the opportunity came. It is a high quality kit, with good details, and that lends itself to making some improvements. I share in this tutorial, with the modeler who likes this car, the work done offering many pictures of the process and the necessary explanations.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Other | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial | September 2020

Building the Hasegawa Nissan Sunny 1979 in an stunning vignette 1/24 scale


By Andre Pantarotto

The Nissan Sunny is a very nice kit from Hasegawa and a pleasure to build, however being a work truck I felt it needed something more. To place in a vignette was the way I found for highlighting this beautiful model.

Editor note: with the PDF tutorial, DOC files are provided for you to print all the small kit boxes. More will be explained later in the text.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/25 Scale | PDF tutorial | August 2020

Building the Moebius Models Lee Petty’s 1955 Chrysler 300 stock car: step by step. 1/25 scale


By Andre Pantarotto

I used the Moebius kit that represents the Chrysler 300 car that I modified to match the Petty car, and used a decal set from Power Slide. This is a kitbashing project since some parts of another kit (Moebius Models Tim Flock’s 1956 Chrysler 300 kit) were used to make this 1955 Chrysler a racing car.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/25 Scale | PDF tutorial | July 2020

Building the Revell 1957 Ford Nascar 1/25 scale


By Andre Pantarotto

I wanted to build the #12 Ralph Moody car. Moody won four races in 1956 for owner Pete DePaolo. He finished eighth in the final points, with 21 Top-10 finishes in 35 races. He raced the first third of 1957, until Ford and others American automobile manufacturers pulled out of racing.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building 1/12 F1 resin model kits: A step by step guide. MG models Ferrari F2002 and F2003- GA


By Mario Covalski

This article aims at offering an illustrated guide, with pictures, explaining step by step the tasks that should be done, how to and the reasons, it’s basically a visual guide, based on the construction of two MG models: the 2002 Ferrari and the 2003- GA.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/16 Scale | PDF tutorial

Improving the MPC Dodge Charger 73 Street Machine 1/16 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

MPC stopped manufacturing their kits since many years ago, but now we can enjoy them again since that brand which was eventually absorbed by Ertl, today has been resurrected by Round 2 models that have been releasing during the last years several of those classics that used to be on hobby shops shelves in the 70’s and 80’s.

COMMENTS (1)

Techniques | Cars | 1/25 Scale | 1/24 Scale | Gallery | Online Articles | PDF tutorial

Building the Moebius Models Tim Flock 1952 Hudson Stock Car 1/25 scale


By Andre Pantarotto

For those who aren't familiar with NASCAR racing, mostly out of USA, Julius Timothy "Tim" Flock was an American stock car racer. He was a two-time NASCAR series champion. Moebiuos offered some time ago the 1952 Hudson “Tim” used two times during 1952, the year he won the session.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/8 Scale | Gallery | PDF tutorial

Building the Opala SS 1976 from Salvat publisher 1/8 scale


By Mario Covalski

This is the 1/8 Chevrolet Opala SS 1976 from the Salvat Publisher. It’s basically an Opel Rekord born from the fusion between GM and Opel during the ’70. As far as I know, it was only manufactured under the name Opala in Brazil, in two versions, 4 cylinders and 6 cylinders. It looks like a big car for a 4-cylinder engine but you have to consider that it had 2.5 liters of displacement and 80CV. It was available with two types of engine: 4-cylinder "Iron Duke", and 6-cylinder 250 cubic inches, both derived from the Chevrolet Impala offered in USA. According to its manufacturers, this combination was the one that gave the name to this car, since “Opala” can be presumed as an acronym of the name “Opel Impala”, because the Opala was an Opel, with Impala engine.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/8 Scale | Gallery | Online Articles | PDF tutorial

Building the Ford Falcon 1963 from Salvat publisher 1/8 scale


By Mario Covalski

This is the 1/8 Ford Falcon 1963 from the Salvat Publisher. The model is provided in 100 weekly fascicles, each one includes history and parts to build the model. The model is mostly made of diecast and plastic parts, is heavy as 9 or 10Kg, but lacks of details, mostly in the engine bay area, and some parts are odd represented. So I added lot of them, fuel lines wiring...etc.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Customizing and improving the Tamiya Fiat Abarth 695SS #89675 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes
The Fiat Abarth 695 ‘esseesse’, classic, is one of the most popular European sport cars in automotive history. Its tiny size and body are among its main identity and attractive features. As was to be expected, Tamiya was one of the brands that offered the icon with Italian accent, creating a simple and funny kit with good details and lot of possibilities for modifications with improvements sets and/or scratch. The version presented in this tutorial is a road car with sport details and customized. It’s a type of vehicle that can be found today in concentrations or classic cars rallies.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Aston Martin DBS Ultimate Edition from the Tamiya kit #24316 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

This project is the result of a request a Dutch collector made me. They sent me the Tamiya kit, an Aber PE dashboard , new wheels, several accessories not necessarily useful and a booklet that shows the differences between a DBS and a DBS Ultimate Edition one.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tyrrell 1977 six wheeler - Tamiya & Chevron transkit 1/12 scale (Updated with new pictures)


By Mario Covalski

Chevron presented us some time ago a conversion kit, that allows us to transform the Tamiya's 1/12 Tyrrell P34 1/12 scale in its 1977 homonym. In this note I will describe which were the problems I found in building this complicated and compound kit, and the way I solved them.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Revell Porsche Panamera Turbo #7034 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

Revell have going on offering Super cars and luxury reproductions in 1/24 scale, this article will be about the Porsche Panamera Turbo. I’ll not extend in a complete kit review , however every time I open a Revell box, the first things I examine are: the bodywork, the brakes and wheels. For these last ones, it must be recognized that Revell have improved them. The wheels size is correct and not undersized as it happened at times, besides they are molded in a single part. What still doesn’t’ like me is the chromed they’re provided with, lack of realism and adds extra work to the modeller. Unfortunately, the brakes are not well represented. This tutorial aims at showing with images the steps I followed to correct the problems and get the finished model.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya Datsun 240Z safari for beginners 1/12 scale


By Mario Covalski

This article aims at leading the reader through the assembly process of a Tamiya Datsun 240Z in 1/12 scale. On next pages, I’ll explain the different techniques I used for the construction of the models, and though some of them are obsolete, they’re still very useful for beginners. Although this article is focused to novices, I think that even will be useful for advanced modelers to take ideas and several recommendations, if they have not built this kit yet.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya Leyton House CG 901B: a guide for novices 1/20 scale


By Antonio Busciglio

This tutorial aims at sharing the building process for the Tamiya kit. The Leyton House is a typical Tamiya kit of the nineties, with good quality and details, but with several fitting issues. I wanted to build a curbside model, focusing on the car shape and livery, rather than the inner mechanical details. It would be an almost OOB build, with modifications only when they were necessary to achieve a better fit and / or to increase the overall realism.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Motorcycles | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Kitbashing the Yamaha YZR M-1 Moto GP 2005 - Tamiya 1/12 scale


By Jose I. Hernandez Diez

Tamiya have been offering high quality motorcycles kits very detailed and good presentation. If you add to this the modern detail sets, the result will be a superb museum piece that will look striking in any showcase, this is the case of the of the Yamaha YZR M-1 (#14104) to which I added several aftermarket. The aim of this article is to share with readers my experience in the construction of this model with these extra sets, so here I will basically refer to their use.

COMMENTS (2)

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Revell Mercedes AMG GT #07028 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

When I received the Revell kit, I realized about its qualities but also about its weak points. And the main, is the way the vent grilles present in the front mudguards, the hood and especially on the front bumpers were represented; and the singular design of the front grille. I invite you to follow the images of this model construction, which was laborious, but with a worthwhile final result!

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/8 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Pocher Lamborghini Huracan, step by step, painting guide and tips. 1/8 scale


By Mario Covalski

These are the new times of Pocher, hand in hand with Hornby, the brand that offer models which represent high technology subjects as Lamborghini cars and Ducati motorcycles. Manufactured by Ixo, the Chinese company, they are the fashion of the time, huge 1/8 scale cars with metal body and chassis, already painted (luckily!). They compete with Amalgam and other brands with less expectations but to fit any budget and if you have some experience as model builder, the result will be acceptable and even excellent. The aim of this tutorial is to share the step by step in the Lamborghini Huracán construction, the last Pocher issue explaining the work achieved so that it may be useful for less experienced modelers and collectors.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Model Factory Hiro Ferrari 126C4 M2 - 1/20 scale


By Martin Klein

The Model Factory Hiro kit is a full detail all metal version and most parts are packed in a plastic box so that they are not damaged during transport. MFH recently increased the price significantly but after inspecting the content of the kit I think the kit is definitely worth the money. The M2 is the last of the ’84 versions that has been released by MFH and so many parts are carried over from the early versions. The M2 was only raced in the last 3 races of the season in Italy (Monza), European GP (Nürburgring) and Portugal (Estoril). With the kit you can build the Monza version. (For the races in Portugal and at the Nürburgring the front wing was changed from the delta shape to a square version similar to the one used the following year on the 156/85)

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/12 Scale | Gallery

Superdetailed Tamiya McLaren Mp 4/6 1/12 scale


By Omoto Kouzi

This is an outstanding work from our friend Omoto Kouzi. We hope you enjoy the pictures and encourage you to build a Tamiya McLaren 4/6. We have a tutorials about the kit, not so detailed but good guide enough for newcomers.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Revell Porsche 918 Spyder #7026 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

When I assembled the Mirage IIIC, I used several products from Ammo Mig. Though I was very satisfied with the result, I decided to use AK Interactive products for the 918 to have a different experience. Certainly Revell have improved the wheels quality and their design but improvements don’t always mean accuracy and I have my doubts about size accuracy of wheels, so I replaced them with the Plamoz ones. I invite you to follow this Porsche model build where I only made two changes in the body to get the result you see here.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Fujimi Ferrari F2007 1/20 scale


By Antonio Busciglio

The car I wanted to build is the Kimi Raikkonen’s Ferrari 2007 in the splendid livery that was used in the second part of the season, where the Ferrari fluo red used in the previous races (and years) was replaced by a stunning, very characteristic (sort of) candy metallic red.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Hasegawa Ferrari 312T 1/20 scale


By Guy Golsteyn

Since it has become a bit quiet at Tamiya headquarters regarding the launch of new 1:20 F1 models, it is nice to see that manufacturers like Fujimi and Hasegawa have picked up the gauntlet releasing new F1 models on a regular base. The Hasegawa kit we will be using here is very well detailed, which means it is possible to build a fine, beautiful looking model building it 'straight from the box’.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Ebbro Citroën DS 19 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

For this article Ebbro provided me a test-shoot that’s to say a test of an injection mold, and there were no references about the year this DS model represented belonged to, so I started to look around the net for pictures that could help me. Looking at the body carefully and comparing with several photos, it was obvious that I had to make sure about certain points.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya Ferrari 312B 1/12 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

This article aims at sharing my model construction which was built out of the box adding a personal touch, removing the chrome from plastic parts that look so unreal, and some details that advanced modelers will be able to reproduce.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya Mercedes 300SL #24338 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

Looking at the photos of a real 300SL body, we find out Tamiya have made an excellent work. However, it’s possible to go even further and give the body of this Mercedes an additional touch of realism. Regarding the chassis Tamiya also made a hard work with the tubular frame, very realistic indeed! besides of being quite simple to assemble. The engine and cockpit are not far behind. To paint this marvel, I chose silver that is unavoidable for this beauty. So, the aim of this article is to share with the reader the building, painting and weathering process of some parts, in such a way that they can be reproduced by a modeller with a minimum of experience.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Fujimi Mazda RX7 Greddy 9 - 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

On several occasions, when surfing around HLJ, I saw the Greedy 9 on sale. To be honest, the tuning aspect of the art box showing this magnificent green Mazda RX-7, tempted me more than once, but it didn’t get me very excited cause in the short description of the kit, I realized that this is one of those models which doesn’t feature a detailed engine, and this is exactly, what I like, to get detailed engines. But, in the end, that tempting picture of the box really convinced me, thus I ordered it.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | Cars | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Superdetailing the Hasegawa Ferrari 312T2 Monaco 76 1/20 scale


By Antonio Busciglio

One of the most attractive aspects of modelling, in my opinion, is the detailing of mechanical parts, especially for old cars like this. So with this article I’ll share with the reader the work done in the nice Hasegawa Ferrari 312T2 1976 kit. The built model represents the car which Niki Lauda won the GP of Monaco with, over Scheckter and Depailler.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Revell Range Rover V8 1/24 scale


By Andreas Rousounelis

The Range Rover is a 4x4 luxury British that first entered production in 1970, and is currently at its fourth generation. The Revell kit depicts the first generation 5-door version. In the following sentences I will share my experience building the kit and some modes I made to improve it, I hope they will be useful for others.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Formula One | Cars | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the MFH Ferrari 312/69 #K156 - 1/20 scale


By Edgardo Azzollini

The model represents the Ferrari 312/69 (0019), drove by Chris Amon (NZ), Monaco 1969, 1st practice on Thursday, May 15th 1969.  This article has been written following the kit Instructions, showing pictures of each step, and it aims to be a guide for others that want to follow the same way.
 

COMMENTS (1)

Techniques | Motorcycles | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Detailing the Ducati Desmosedici GP4, step by step Tamiya 1/12 scale


By Guy Golsteyn

Before opening the box, I advise you to take some time to admire the beautiful artwork decorating the box. True artists produce time after time gorgeous illustrations at the Tamiya factory, reflecting a perfect image of how beautiful a model you will find inside. On condition that you are willing to invest some time and effort of course. And to help you I will try to guide you through the building process to achieve this goal.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya Martini Alfa Romeo 155 DTM picture by picture! #24176, 1/24 scale


By Juan Layos Pantoja

This is one of those kits resting on our shelves which for one reason or another, we’ve never built and perhaps one day, not knowing why, one decides to get down to work! Let me mention that it was not a straightforward kit to build, besides of being an old one, some parts don’t fit properly as it use to happen with some Tamiya kits, especially with regard to the hood which needed to be dry fitted prior to the paint body work and subsequently.

COMMENTS

Techniques | Motorcycles | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya Ducati 900 Mike Hailwood Replica #14019, step by step for novices 1/12 scale


By Guy Golsteyn

I intended to build this Ducati almost “out of box”, meaning that I won't execute any sophisticated conversions or intensive super detailing. First of all this kit is already pretty good detailed, in spite of its age, and furthermore it's not a racebike, but a classic streetbike from the ‘80s that has never heard of carbon fiber or electronic devices. The only exceptions I will allow myself are the wiring which I will replace by thinner wires to add some realism, and the joint screws at the cowling exterior...

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Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya LaFerrari #24333 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

The LaFerrari accelerates from 0-100 km/h in less than 3 seconds and has a top speed exceeding 350 kilometres per hour (220 mph). 499 copies will be produced and sold for an astronomical price more than one million euros, clearly not within everyone’s reach. So, take advantage of this opportunity Tamiya gives us to start building our own LaFerrari…at quite a considerable price…
 

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Techniques | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Porsche 908/80 Le Mans 24 hours 1980 from a Tamiya 936 kit 1/24 scale


By Guy Golsteyn

To be able to execute this conversion I needed a 1/24 Tamiya Porsche 936 as a base. The question was: which one? Tamiya has two kits available: the 1977 Porsche 936 and the 1978 Porsche 936. More research learned me that the Porsche 908/80 in fact turns out to be a mixture of both models. The overall shape of the Porsche 908/80 comes closest to the 1977 Porsche 936, with the high side wings holding a large rear spoiler. But behind the air scoop of the 1977 Porsche are four air intakes which are not present on the 908/80. The central air intake, escorted by two air intakes to both sides and covered by some protective mesh caps are identical as shown on the 1978 model. So I decided to use the 1977 model as a base on which I made the 1978 adaptations. Finally I could start modeling!

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Techniques | Motorcycles | Cars | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Realistic wire wheels for 1/12 scale motorcycles


By Mario Covalski

One of the biggest challenges for a modeler who builds motorcycles in 1/12 scale, is to modify a wire wheel and make it look realistic; specially without having to buy an aftermarket kit. Anyway, there are no kits for this kind of modification (except for one of the Acu-stion for the Tamiya XV1600 kit), so it's not possible to get one. So any modeler attempting to do this task must rely in his/her ability in order, to get a good result.

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Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the VW Golf GTI ABT from the Fujimi kit – 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

ABT Sportsline is a motor racing and auto tuning company based in Kempten im Allgäu, Germany. ABT mainly deals with Audi, and the related primary Volkswagen Group brands - Volkswagen, Škoda, and SEAT. It was clear that ABT would not be satisfied just by preparing the new Golf but they would give to the Volkswagen Golf GTI a special treatment as the king of the compacts deserve.

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Techniques | Motorcycles | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tamiya Yoshimura Hayabusa: step by step for novices - 1/12 scale


By Mario Covalski

For those who are motorcycles´ lovers, every Tamiya´s new release is full of expectations …and excitement. The Hayabusa Yoshimura couldn't be the exception, after the success, her "sister", the factory version, had. The goal of this article, is to make comments step by step with photos of the parts and assemblies about some modifications or additions which I'm sure, will be useful, specially for beginners.

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Techniques | Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Ford Escort WRC 1997 - Circuit des Ardennes Rallye, from a Tamiya kit 1/24 scale


By Guy Golsteyn

It has been a while since I last built a rally car model in 1/24 scale. Well, I will not tease the rally fans any longer and get to work: I decided to use a CBCom transkit to convert a Ford Escort group A into a Ford Escort WRC. I'm talking about the Ford Escort used by Belgian rally drivers Patrick Snijers and Dany Colebunders during the 1997 Circuit des Ardennes Rally which unfortunately they didn't finish.

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Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Fujimi Ferrari 330P4 1967 for novices - #123073 - 1/24 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

First of all, it’s necessary to take a look inside the box to be sure if the content is complete and in perfect conditions. One of the most common and discouraging problems is that once the project has started, we can find out that there are broken or missing parts.

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Techniques | Formula One | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the James Hunt 1976 McLaren M23 1/12 scale


By Mario Covalski

Three years ago I bought Chevron's conversion trilogy for the Ferrari 312T to T2 '77, the Tyrrell '76 to '77, and the M23 '74 to '76.
Within a year, I built the two first kits and let the McLaren for the "proper" moment (inspiration, motivation, etc.).
A few months ago I had the opportunity to convince a Japanese modeler, Mr. Kenji Yagi, to translate a few pages of the instruction manual for me. This translation is available with the PDF version of this tutorial.

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Techniques | Cars | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Lancia Stratos HF Rally #4 Pirelli 1978 San Remo - Doyusha 1/12 scale


By Christian Franke

Doyusha offered both in the 90s and later only the Monte Carlo’s, making finally the San Remo Rally with the Pirelli team livery.
I’ve been trying to get this kit but it’s discontinued although still it’s possible to find it from some online stores/shops and on ebay. I bought one that had been partially built, which involves double work, missing parts, etc.  This article aims at sharing with pictures the experience to rescue and old odd kit, improving it to the best of my skills.
 

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Motorcycles | 1/6 Scale | PDF tutorial

Customizing the Tamiya Harley Police: The green shovel 1/6 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

There are many Harley Davidson kits available from different manufacturers, but without any doubt Tamiya have produced the best versions. I refer to model kits, comprising a lot of parts, which were developed with a high level of detail and match the original models. And if that were not enough, in 1/6 scale. The Tamiya's Harley(s) were born at the beginning of the 70s, time when large scale models were preferred by hobby modelers. Nevertheless, the design of those models was adapted to the demands and techniques of those times and of course, they are completely different from nowadays assembling techniques. This means that today modelers will have to face certain obstacles at the time of giving the model a realistic look.

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Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Superdetailing the McLaren M23 Ford Tamiya ref #20002, 1/20


By Guy Golsteyn

I have been collecting all the 1:20 Tamiya F1 kits since Tamiya started producing them back in 1978, but the McLaren M23 was missing from my collection because I had the clever idea to trade the finished model for a bow and arrows once I finished it. So I have been looking for it since ages, until I discovered Ebay some 25 years later. I paid quite a high price to complete my collection with the one missing kit, but it was the very last that I needed, so what the heck.

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Techniques | Formula One | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Detailing the Heller Ligier JS11 1/12 scale (Revised with new pictures)


By Mario Covalski

In 1993 I had in my hands the 1/12 Ligier kit by Heller; I was about to buy it but the decal sheets were too old and in bad condition. Since that moment, I've always had in my mind the idea of building a model of the JS11 (which impressed me when I saw it in 1979), and detail it as much as possible, because these Heller kits are really poor in quality and inaccurate. So, a few months ago, while I was talking with an importer, I saw the box in his office and the idea came back back to my mind. Needless to say that a few hours later I was examining the kit in my house.

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Techniques | Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building / Improving the Ferrari F189 (640) Tamiya 1/20 scale


By Crescenzo Consolato

Since time ago, I had in mind to build this Tamiya kit with a higher level of detail trying to replicate the F189 which ran in the 1989 Portuguese GP. Although it’s widely known that the Tamiya kits come highly detailed offering a very good quality, I had to make several improvements to match this one to this Portuguese GP version. The reason is because this Tamiya kit represents a F189 of the early season.

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Techniques | Formula One | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Tyrrell P34, Tamiya 1/12 scale A step by step, for newcomers


By Mario Covalski

This article aims at providing the beginner a complementary guideline, apart from the Tamiya instruction's manual, including photos of a detailed and quality enough model to encourage him/her in what we could call a hard and laborious work.... facing for the first time with a Tamiya's box.....with a 1/12th inside.

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Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Hasegawa Ferrari 312T2 Monaco 76 1/20 scale


By Martin Klein

The 312T2 Monaco ’76 is Hasegawa’s the first 1/20 Formula 1 kit so I was very curious about the quality. After inspecting all parts the summary from my point of view is that Hasegawa did a magnificent job. All parts are very detailed and will result in a nice model without any modification. On the other hand the level of detail provided gives the opportunity to add more detail and thus realism and this is the path that I am going to follow.

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Techniques | Motorcycles | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Detailing the 1/12 Tamiya Yamaha YZR M1-2004 #46 1/12 scale


By Nicolas Perez Fiorentini

The model I built represents the motorcycle in the first five races of the 2004 championship. In this model I added all possible scratchbuilt details, no etched parts, resin ones…etc. In the article below, you will have a clear explanation about how I made and added every new part, cable, electronic box,…etc

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Techniques | Cars | 1/12 Scale | PDF tutorial

Tamiya Caterhams, a step by step guide for novices 1/12 scale


By Mario Covalski

The first Catherham from Tamiya coming to my hands at the end of 1994, was the “Cycle Fender Special” (10202), since the “Super Seven BDR was out of stock, and it was impossible for me to get it from the stores I used to buy kits. From that moment on, my affair with which, I think is the best scale car kit ever produced, began. And here my comment: probably, you have seen better detailed kits, or even superb models limited editions.

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Formula One | 1/20 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the Fujimi McLaren Honda MP4/6: step by step for beginners 1/20 scale


By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

I built this model as per instructions except when I used the Hobby Design detail set and some extra part. This article is devoted to novices so as to help them to build, which is perhaps, their first F1 model.

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Cars | 1/24 Scale | PDF tutorial

Building the TechArt GT based on the Fujimi Cayman 1/24 scale


By Fabrice Marechal

With this version of Cayman, the German constructor was really inspired., especially regarding the front bumper which adds a more aggressive look and gives the car an aerodynamic silhouette. Looking the car’s profile, there are not changes, the side skirts were cut and are similar to the ones in the 911 GT3. The double aileron gives the car even a more aggressive look besides of improving the superior driving stability and road adherence at high speed. TechArt offer wheels in different sizes from 17 to 20 inches. Regarding the engine there are only a few improvements in the air inlet and electronics which allows to reach 310 HP.

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Ultimate guide for the Pocher Lotus 72D/7 from 1972 1/8 scale

By Lars Wahlström

I had already started my own research and looked for reference images and information. I also joined a Facebook group and got a lot of tips. The kit was released in the UK before in the EU, so many had already started their builds and discovered inaccuracies. The objective of this tutorial is to share with the reader the work done, not only to assemble the kit, but also to get the most out of it, adding details and missing parts, painting where necessary, etc., always guided by the references. to which I had access. Hoping it is useful to others.


Superdetailing the Revell Jaguar E-Type 3.8 Series I, 1/24 scale

By Geo Tziafas

A true masterpiece, an automotive treasure that, when it was first unveiled six decades ago in 1960 at the Geneva Motor Show, prompted Enzo Ferrari to declare it the most beautiful car in the world, takes the spotlight in the following article. With over 70,000 units of the E-Type produced, it graced the Coventry factory floor in three distinct phases: Series 1 (1961-1968), Series 2 (1969-1971), and Series 3 (1971-1974).


Ultimate guide for the Revell / Monogram 65 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray 1/8 scale

By Lars Wahlström

In 1977, as a Christmas gift from my brother, I got a model kit of a 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Sting Ray in 1/8 scale. The kit was made by Monogram, but the same kit was later also released by Revell. There were editions with the body in both red and blue plastic. I noticed quite immediately that the detail level was low, lower than many models in 1/25 scale. Not even the doors were operable and the chrome-plating quality was really poor. Comparing with the French Heller's super detailed 1/8 model kit of the Citroen B15, which I built earlier, the Corvette was toyish and a real disappointment for an experienced modeller. But I decided to take it on anyway.


Superdetailing the MFH Alfa Romeo 33TT12 #K711, 1/12 scale

By Geo Tziafas

In the following tutorial I will share with the reader, many photos and explanations about the construction of the Alfa 33TT, I hope it will help and guide, for those who want to build this magnificent MFH kit, but this experience is valid for other similar kits of the same brand. This tutorial, very descriptive and with many good photos, can also serve as a general guide for other MFH kits in the same scale.


Building the Tamiya Mercedes-AMG GT3 #24345 1/24 scale

By Patrick Sedney

Once again, Tamiya delights us with the flawless engineering quality of their scale model, the Mercedes-AMG GT3, which was launched in 2017... or was it? In this tutorial, we will explore the pros and cons of this remarkable replica of the Mercedes-Benz vehicle, created in collaboration with their performance brand, AMG, for various FIA GT3 championships. Customizing it for the 2019 GT World Challenge America Crowdstrike team.


Building the MFH Lancia Beta Montecarlo Turbo Gr.5 1980 #K668 1/12 scale

By Geo Tziafas

Starting a Hiro kit build is essentially starting a game of chess. Each move affects the next and the slightest mistake may cost in fitting or detailing issues. In addition, as in the famous board game, the more moves (test fits) you are ahead the better you can predict the way they will interact with each other and the less likely it is to be checkmated during the final assembly.


Building and customizing the Tamiya Ford Mustang GT4 #24354 1/24 scale

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

Basically this kit has been built straight out of the box, using almost all of the parts included in the kit, and small details such as generic photo-etched screw heads have been added. The objective of this tutorial is to share with the reader the steps that I followed to build this model.


Hasegawa Lamborghini Jota SVR (1975) #21214, 1/24 scale

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

I built the model straight out of the box, using all the parts included in the kit, and I have added some details in the engine that, although it is not exposed, but it was fun and the work has been reflected in the photos. I added some wires, and generic photo-etched screw heads. These photo-etched parts were also used to detail some other parts of the model. For the paint, a Lamborghini orange tone called Arancio Miura (Gravity Colors Ref. GC-1194) was chosen, and thus, make a different proposal to the red finish proposed by Hasegawa.


Detailing the IXOcollections Mercedes-Benz W196R 1/8 scale, photo array

By Mario Covalski

With this photo array I share with the reader my experience with the model adding many missing details, not all, painting parts and applying plastic modeling techniques to improve the appearance of this expensive model. In addition, solving some problems that the kit has and showing tips and tricks to improve or facilitate its assembly.


Detailing the IXOcollections / Eaglemoss Mercedes 300 SL 1/8 scale, photo array

By Mario Covalski

With this photo array (one picture says more than thousand words sometimes) I share with the reader my experience with the model (I put together two) adding many missing details, not all, painting parts and applying plastic modelling techniques to improve the appearance of this expensive model. Also solving some problems that the kit has and showing tips and tricks to improve or facilitate its assembly.


Building and detailing the Tamiya Honda NSX 2015 #24344, 1/24 scale

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

For this tutorial I built the model straight out of the box, and except for some generic decals with logos, I've used almost all of the parts provided in the box. The custom paint scheme was my idea, seeking a harmony of black areas, combined with a metallic dark gray base, alternated with fluorescent red/orange details, a very explosive mix of finishes that gives the model great dynamism. Below I share with the reader the steps I took to assemble the model of this 2015 Honda NSX, starting with the bodywork.


Kitbashing the Tamiya Ferrari F40 photo array 1/24 scale

By Geo Tziafas

We use to publish large tutorials plenty of pictures and large texts, but when I saw these pictures I realized that this probably wouldn't need anything more, sometimes happens. Looking the pictures I understood all the process… besides not always contributors want to spend extra time writing, when already inverted thousand of hours building taking pictures…etc. I hope you enjoy the pictures as I did, thanks Geo!


Customizing the Revell Citröen 2CV 1/24 scale

By David Guardia

The paint scheme I have chosen is based on a World War II plane belonging to the Armée de l'air. The Dewoitine with its beautiful blue color, and the French national flag on the tail. Model building, aviation and classic cars, all in one! The goal of this tutorial is to share the work of making a weathered vehicle in an obvious way, but without getting to what is used nowaday, models that represent destroyed subjects ready for scrap. In addition, the decoration, as if it were a fighter plane, needed abuse effects, but without going to the extreme.



Improving the Tamiya Morris Mini Cooper S #24130 1/24 scale

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

I built this model under commission for a customer of mine, who asked for a customized sports version, such as the elimination of both bumpers, the hood with forward opening, which allows to show the engine, in addition to other details that will be shown later in the text. As it was a special Mini I decided to write a tutorial including many photos taken during the build and thus share with the reader my experience with this model.


Improving the Miniart Mercedes Benz 170V (W136) #35095 1/35 scale

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

I built the Miniart kit in a civil version. It is a model started a few years ago and some of the images that show the assembly process, such as the stage where the interior of the vehicle is detailed, have been damaged and it was impossible to recover them. However, the rest of the process is explained in great detail, and it is my pleasure to share the work done with the readers.


Customizing the Tamiya Alfa Romeo Giulia Sprint GTA 1600 #24188 1/24 scale

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

In the racing car world, Alfa Romeo is one of the most legendary and mythical Italian name, and each of its vehicles is synonymous with beauty, style, and racing. Precisely, the Giulia Sprint GTA, is the version which this tutorial is dedicated to. A road car, with sporty and personalized characteristics. This is the kind of car that can be found in various classic vehicle activities today.


Improving the Tamiya Jaguar Mk II Saloon 3.8 #24151 1/24 scale

By Edwing E. Merlo Paredes

Although it is an old kit, I always wanted to improve it and finally the opportunity came. It is a high quality kit, with good details, and that lends itself to making some improvements. I share in this tutorial, with the modeler who likes this car, the work done offering many pictures of the process and the necessary explanations.


Building the Revell Opel Blitz S 3T in a diorama with the Revell Porsche Junior tractor 1/24 scale

By Andre Pantarotto

I wanted to build the Opel truck, is a model I like very much, but why not to take the opportunity to add other beautiful kit from Revell I had in my stash, so the Porsche tractor was added to this build. There was plenty of room for details and weathering which brought more fun and turned the model in a diorama. This tutorial is to share the steps I followed to get this ready to place in the showcase, so here we go!


Building the Hasegawa Nissan Sunny 1979 in an stunning vignette 1/24 scale

By Andre Pantarotto

The Nissan Sunny is a very nice kit from Hasegawa and a pleasure to build, however being a work truck I felt it needed something more. To place in a vignette was the way I found for highlighting this beautiful model.

Editor note: with the PDF tutorial, DOC files are provided for you to print all the small kit boxes. More will be explained later in the text.


Building the Moebius Models Lee Petty’s 1955 Chrysler 300 stock car: step by step. 1/25 scale

By Andre Pantarotto

I used the Moebius kit that represents the Chrysler 300 car that I modified to match the Petty car, and used a decal set from Power Slide. This is a kitbashing project since some parts of another kit (Moebius Models Tim Flock’s 1956 Chrysler 300 kit) were used to make this 1955 Chrysler a racing car.


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