Gunpla for Beginners: Your First Build

Welcome to the Hobby

So you've decided to build your first Gunpla — welcome to one of the most rewarding hobbies in the world. Whether you were drawn in by the anime, the incredible engineering, or just that one kit you saw in a shop window, you're in the right place.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to go from zero to a completed build.

What You'll Need

Before you start, here's what you need:

• A Gunpla kit — We recommend starting with an Entry Grade (EG) or High Grade (HG). They're affordable, forgiving, and look great out of the box.
• A pair of nippers — This is the single most important tool. Use them to cut parts from the runners (the plastic frames that hold the pieces). Good nippers make clean cuts without stress marks.
• A hobby knife — For cleaning up any leftover nubs from the runner connections.
• A cutting mat — Protects your desk and gives you a clean workspace.

> That's it. You don't need paint, glue, or any advanced tools for your first build. Modern Gunpla are snap-fit — the pieces click together.

Step 1: Choose Your Kit

For your very first build, we recommend:

• Entry Grade RX-78-2 — The original Gundam in the simplest possible format. About 15 minutes to build.
• HG Barbatos — A fan-favorite with great proportions and articulation. Takes about 1-2 hours.
• HG RX-78-2 Revive — The classic, reimagined with modern engineering.

All of these are available in our shop.

Step 2: Unbox and Organize

Open your kit and you'll find:

• Runners — The colorful plastic frames holding all the parts
• Instruction manual — Your roadmap (read it left to right, top to bottom)
• Stickers/Decals — For adding details

Lay everything out so you can see what you're working with.

Step 3: Cut, Clean, Build

For each step in the manual:

1. Identify the part on the runner by its number
2. Cut it out using your nippers — cut a few millimeters away from the part first, then make a second clean cut flush to the part
3. Clean any nub marks with your hobby knife
4. Snap it into place following the diagram

Take your time. There's no rush. The building process itself is the meditation.

Step 4: Apply Stickers

Once assembled, apply any included stickers or decals. Use a toothpick or the back of your hobby knife to press them into place.

Step 5: Pose and Display

Your kit is done! Experiment with different poses using the articulated joints. Stand back and admire your work.

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What's Next?

Once you've caught the bug (and you will), here are your next steps:

• Try a Real Grade (RG) — Same 1/144 scale but with insane detail
• Learn panel lining — A simple technique that makes details pop
• Join the community — Share your builds with fellow builders

Welcome to the hobby, pilot. 🎌