Building a Die-Cast Metal Model Car: Getting Started

by Lyn Lomasi, Write W.A.V.E. Media Staff

Image by Shane's Stuff via Flickr.com

Perhaps you've walked past a stunning display of die-cast metal model cars. Maybe one of your buddies has an award-worthy collection that you're envious of. It could be that you just saw some in a magazine and thought they were cool. Whatever the reason, you are likely eager to get started on building your first die-cast metal model car. Building a die-cast metal model car can be a fun project. It can sometimes be more time-consuming than is thought by just looking at the package. But, once it is done, you will hopefully have something nice to display. Before you get started, there are some things you should know about building a die-cast metal model car.

The first thing you will need to do is choose your building kit. The kits are sold at craft and hobby shops and come in various skill levels. Building a die-cast metal model car can be fun, but if you've never done it before, a beginner's kit is best. The more difficult building kits are best for those who have done this, or something similar, at least one time, if not more. Choosing which type of car to build can be part of the fun that comes with these cars, especially if you are a car enthusiast.

The materials needed will depend on the kit you purchase. Some kits come with everything you need, including the paint. Other kits only come with the basics. You may also choose to customize your die-cast metal model car with accessories, such as racing decals, custom rims and tires, a racing engine, or even a hydraulics kit. There are many different accessories and custom options available for building a die-cast metal model car. Some of these even come with the kits.

There are also some basic supplies to have on hand, even if your model building kit comes with them. Sometimes there will not be enough glue or paint included, due to extra gluing or painting with multiple coats of paint to get the look you want. Hobby paint, such as Testors brand, sold at Hobby Lobby, is good for a die-cast metal model car. It's less than 5 bucks and you likely won't even use the whole container on just one car. Don't forget the brushes. Also useful for building your die-cast metal model car are a hobby knife, wax paper, and clear acrylic for the protective coat. Testors brand also has a good finishing coat.

When building your die-cast metal model car, you may also wish to have some internet resources handy, such as those that offer tips & suggestions, ones to purchase your supplies from, or just those that are interesting to anyone building a die-cast metal model car. Some useful websites include ModelCarsMag, Hobby Lobby, RC Tek, and Model Car Hub.


*I originally published a version of this via Yahoo Contributor Network

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