Beginner's Guide: How to Get Started Building Gunpla
🚀 Complete Guide to Getting Started with Gunpla
If you're fascinated by Gundam robots and want to start building them as models, you've come to the right place. Whether you're a fan of the anime or simply curious, this guide will help you take your first steps into the world of Gunpla : plastic models of the saga's famous mobile suits.
🧩 What is a Gunpla?
"Gunpla" is the combination of Gundam and Plastic Models . They are colorful and detailed snap-fit models that can be assembled (without glue!) following visual instructions. Some are simple and relaxing to build, others more complex and technical: there's something for everyone.
📏 Gunpla Lines: Which One Is Right for You?
Here's an overview of the main categories. Choosing your first kit starts here.
🔰 Entry Grade (EG)
- 📦 Basic kits, super simple, perfect for getting started
- ✅ No tools or experience required
- 📏 1/144 scale
- 🔧 Assembly: very easy
- 🎯 Perfect for kids, complete beginners, or anyone who wants to try it without any commitment.
⚙️ High Grade (HG)
- The most widespread and balanced line
- 📏 1/144 scale
- ⏱️ Assembly: easy-medium
- 🎨 Excellent detail and mobility
- 💰 Affordable price
🔍 Real Grade (RG)
- High quality and advanced mechanics… in 1/144 scale
- ⚙️ Internal mini-skeleton
- 📐 Master Grade Level Details
- ⏱️ Assembly: medium-advanced
- 🎯 For those seeking realism and a compact challenge
🏗️ Master Grade (MG)
- 📏 1/100 scale – bigger, more detailed
- ⚙️ Internal structure, more mechanisms and accessories
- 🎯 For intermediate builders or collectors
- ⏱️ Assembly: advanced
💡 Perfect Grade (PG)
- 📏 1/60 scale – huge and ultra detailed
- ⚙️ Highest level of complexity, some with LEDs and moving parts
- ⏱️ Assembly: 20+ hours💰 High cost (but top quality)
- 🎯 For hardcore fans or epic projects
🤖 SD – Super Deformed
- Chibi design (big head, small body)
- 📏 Height: ~8 cm🎯 Perfect for collection or quick assembly
- 💡 There are simple and detailed versions (SDCS, SDW Heroes)
✅ Also ideal as a gift or fun kit to personalize.
🔧 Other special lines
- RE/100 – 1/100 scale, but without internal skeleton. Excellent alternative to MGs.
- HGUC / HGCE / HGTWFM – Thematic variants within the HG line.
- Figure-rise Standard – For human characters like Goku or Heero Yuy, but with Gunpla philosophy.
🛠️ What Do You Need to Get Started?
✔️ Essential tools:
- ✂️ Wire cutters : for cutting pieces
- 🪚 File or sandpaper : for finishing
- 🧼 Cutter and tweezers : for stickers and details
🎁 Practical tip: We offer "Starter Set" kits with everything included.
🧱 How do you assemble a Gunpla?
- Check the runners (grids) and identify the pieces
- Follow the step-by-step illustrated instructions
- Cut carefully , assemble without glue
- Finish and customize with panels and stickers
💬 Editing is relaxing and creative: no noise, just concentration and satisfaction.
🎨 Want to Customize? Here's Where to Start
- Panel Lining – color the engraved details
- Decals & stickers – for an official touch
- Coloring – with marker or airbrush
- Weathering & battle damage – for realistic effects
📦 Your First Gunpla: Which One to Choose?
| Experience | Recommended |
|---|---|
| 🟢 Completely new | Entry Grade or simple HG |
| 🟡 A little experience | HG complex or Real Grade |
| 🔴 Experienced model maker | Master Grade or Perfect Grade |
| 🎁 Nice gift | SD or EG |