2Tamiya sharp pointed side cutter
Twisting parts off the sprue leaves ugly marks to sand away. Tamiya's sharp pointed cutters have thin blades that reach into tight spots and snip small, delicate parts cleanly, like the fine detail on a ship model.
Pros
- Thin, pointed blades.
- Reach tight spots on the sprue.
- Clean cuts on small parts.
Cons
- Made for plastic only, so keep them off metal and wire.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Tamiya product page ↗
3Modelcraft classic craft knife set
A sharp craft knife does the fine work: trimming seams, cleaning up parts and cutting decals. Modelcraft's knife has a light aluminium #1 handle with a knurled grip for control, and comes with ten spare blades in two shapes.
Pros
- Light, precise handle.
- Ten spare blades.
Cons
- Blades are very sharp, so store it safely.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Modelcraft product details on Amazon UK ↗
4Vallejo Model Color basic set
Vallejo paints are a favourite for figures and kits because they brush on smoothly and clean up with water. This set has 16 of their Model Color shades, including white, black, flesh, metallics and the main primary colours, with a user's guide.
Pros
- 16 useful starter colours.
- Smooth, water-based paint.
- Includes gold and silver.
Cons
- Experienced painters may already have these shades.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Vallejo product page ↗
5Donegan OptiVISOR magnifier
Painting an eye on a figure or fitting a tiny aerial needs a closer look than most eyes can manage. The OptiVISOR is a headband magnifier with glass lenses, so both hands stay free and the view is in proper 3D. It flips up out of the way when they don't need it and fits over glasses.
Pros
- Hands-free magnification.
- Glass lenses for a clear view.
- Fits over glasses.
Cons
- Pick the lens strength that suits their working distance.
View on Amazon UK↗UK listing only in this guide.Amazon price at the time shown. Prices and availability can change; the price on Amazon at purchase applies. Product sources
Donegan product page ↗
What to buy someone who loves building models
Model makers use the same few tools on every kit, so good versions of those are always welcome. The best gifts for model makers are quality glue, cutters, knives and paints. Avoid buying a kit unless you know what they build. Tools suit anyone who makes models.
How we picked these gifts for model makers
We picked each product for what model makers enjoy and because it makes sense as a present. The order is our own choice. The pros and cons come from published product details, not customer reviews.
Amazon shows the current price and delivery. Where we've checked that the US listing is the same product, the US link goes there. Otherwise you'll get the UK listing, labelled as such. More about our research.
