Collector Model

You can turn a snap-fit kit into a competition quality model if you know a few tricks.

By Mark McGovern

I’ve been a competitive model builder for years and, I’m sorry to say, I tended to look down on snap-fit models.  My assumption was that the parts would fit poorly because they were made to snap together.  Then I was asked to assemble Round 2’s reissues of the MPC snap-fit models of the Incredible Hulk and the Amazing Spider-man, doing the best assembly and paint jobs I could on them.  I found out that, with a little adjustment of my building techniques, I could produce models that were every bit as nice as more complex glue kits.  Here’s what I learned.

Every Journey Begins With a First Step

It’s a good idea to begin any modeling project by checking the instruction sheet to make sure that all the kit parts are there in the box.  The suggested assembly sequence shown will familiarize you with how the parts are supposed to go together.  With that knowledge you can decide whether to follow the instructions exactly or deviate from them if you’re going to alter the model to suit your own taste.

Then the parts can use a good bath in soap and water.  This will remove the mold release agents, your finger oils, and any other substances that could interfere with paint or cement adhering to the plastic.  The parts can be dried with rags or paper towels and then you’re ready to start building.

To be continued…