Beginner's Guide to Gunpla

Introduction

• Welcome by Yusi Gundam
• Purpose: Clear misconceptions and questions about building Gunpla.
• Focus: Basics of Gunpla, how to get started, and snap building your first kit.
• Note: This is not a customization tutorial.

Misconceptions About Gunpla

1. Painting Required?

   • No, painting is not required.
   • Gunpla kits are pre-colored with some color-correcting stickers.
   • Painting is considered customizing.

2. Is Gunpla Hard to Build?

   • No, it's straightforward and simple.
   • Generally no glue required; parts just snap together.
   • Similar to building LEGO sets.

3. Cost of Gunpla?

   • Costs vary; many beginner kits range from $10-$20.
   • More expensive options are available for those who get deeper into the hobby.

What is Gunpla?

• Gunpla = Gundam + Plamo (plastic model)
• Official line of plastic model kits by Bandai based on the Mobile Suit Gundam franchise.
• The first Gundam series premiered in 1979.

Getting Started: Tools Needed

• Essential Tools:
  • Hobby cutters (side cutters or nippers)
  • Optional: X-acto knife or sandpaper for nub removal.
  • Recommended: Cutting mat.

Where to Buy Gunpla

• Online Retailers:
  • Hobby Link Japan
  • Gundam Store
  • Gundam Planet
  • Mandarake
  • Amazon
• Physical Stores (USA):
  • Limited stock at places like Barnes & Noble, GameStop, and local hobby shops.
• Premium Bandai:
  • Kits that are limited in production; often recolored or entirely new designs.

Understanding Gunpla Grades

Common Grades:

1. High Grade (HG):

   • 1/144 scale, cheapest, quickest to build.
   • Lacks color separation, often comes with color-correcting stickers.
   • Price: $10-$40.

2. Master Grade (MG):

   • 1/100 scale.
   • More detailed and articulated than HG.
   • Price: $30-$100.

3. Real Grade (RG):

   • 1/144 scale; combines elements of HG and MG.
   • Features an inner frame and high detail.
   • Price: $30-$40.

4. Perfect Grade (PG):

   • 1/60 scale; most expensive and detailed.
   • Price: $160-$250.

Other Grades:

• First Grade (FG): Simple, cheap kits.
• Advanced Grade (AG): Similar to FG but only from the Mobile Suit Gundam Age series.
• 1/100 Non-Grade: Upsized high grades.
• Reborn 100: Niche kits that offer better quality over time.
• Mega Size: 1/48 scale; large kits.
• SD (Super Deformed): Chibi-style kits, easy to build.

Recommendations for Beginners

• Start with High Grade kits for an easy entry.
• High Grades are affordable, easy to find, and quick to build.
• Don't let a difficult first kit deter you; there are many good kits available.

Building Your First Kit

• Preparation:
  • Organize workspace.
  • Understand terminology: runners, gates, nubs.
• Building Process:
  • Follow the manual's picture instructions.
  • Cut parts from runners using cutters, leaving a nub for cleanup.
  • Clean up nubs using X-acto knife or sandpaper.

Types of Stickers and Decals

• Foil Stickers: Basic stickers for detailing.
• Decal Types:
  • Sticker-style: Peel and stick.
  • Dry Transfer: Rub to transfer to the model.
  • Water Slides: Use water to apply.
• Diagrams in manuals show where to place decals.

Final Tips

• Be patient: Building can take time.
• Pay attention to instructions to avoid confusion.
• Take breaks if feeling bored or frustrated.
• Most importantly, have fun!

Conclusion

• Thank you for watching!
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