Building Revell Model Kits: A Complete Beginner's Guide
Revell has been bringing scale models to hobbyists since 1943, offering everything from iconic muscle cars to historic warships. Building model kits develops patience, precision, and artistic skills while creating something you can proudly display. Let's explore everything you need to know about starting with Revell kits.
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Why Choose Revell?
Revell's Advantages:
- ✓ Wide Selection: Cars, planes, ships, spacecraft, military vehicles
- ✓ Clear Skill Levels: Labeled 1-5, perfect for choosing appropriate challenges
- ✓ Detailed Instructions: Step-by-step illustrated guides
- ✓ Quality Molding: Crisp details and good part fit
- ✓ Snap-Tite Options: No glue needed for younger builders
- ✓ Affordable Entry: Budget-friendly kits for beginners
Skill Level System
Level 1: Beginner
Part Count: 20-50 pieces | Build Time: 1-3 hours
Features: Large parts, snap-fit options, minimal painting required. Great first models.
Level 2: Easy
Part Count: 50-100 pieces | Build Time: 3-6 hours
Features: Some small parts, glue needed, basic painting for best results.
Level 3: Intermediate
Part Count: 100-200 pieces | Build Time: 6-10 hours
Features: Fine details, multiple paint colors, some experience helpful.
Level 4: Advanced
Part Count: 200-400 pieces | Build Time: 10-20 hours
Features: Complex assemblies, detailed painting, photoetch parts possible.
Level 5: Expert
Part Count: 400+ pieces | Build Time: 20-40+ hours
Features: Maximum detail, advanced techniques, serious time investment.
Popular Revell Categories
1. Automotive Models
- Classic Cars: '57 Chevy, '69 Camaro, Ford Mustang, Corvettes
- Modern Sports Cars: Porsche 911, Ferrari, Lamborghini
- Trucks: Pickup trucks, semi-tractors, custom haulers
- Hot Rods: Custom street rods, lowriders, dragsters
2. Aircraft
- WWII Fighters: P-51 Mustang, Spitfire, ME-109, Zero
- Bombers: B-17 Flying Fortress, B-29 Superfortress
- Modern Jets: F-14 Tomcat, F-18 Hornet, F-35
- Commercial: Boeing 747, Airbus A380, vintage airliners
3. Ships & Submarines
- Warships: USS Missouri, Bismarck, aircraft carriers
- Submarines: U-boats, nuclear subs, WWII fleet boats
- Sailing Ships: Historic tall ships, pirate vessels
- Modern Vessels: Coast Guard cutters, modern destroyers
4. Military Vehicles
- Tanks: Sherman, Panzer, T-34, M1 Abrams
- Armored Vehicles: Half-tracks, APCs, armored cars
- Support Vehicles: Trucks, jeeps, artillery
Essential Tools & Supplies
Beginner Tool Kit ($30-50):
- ✓ Hobby Knife: X-Acto or similar with #11 blades
- ✓ Sprue Cutters: Clean part removal from sprues
- ✓ Plastic Cement: Liquid or tube glue for styrene
- ✓ Paint Brushes: Sizes 0, 2, 4 for detail and coverage
- ✓ Sandpaper: 400, 600, 1000 grit for smoothing
- ✓ Tweezers: Placing small parts
- ✓ Painting Tape: Masking sharp lines
Paint Types
Acrylic Paints
Pros:
- Water cleanup
- Low odor
- Fast drying
- Beginner-friendly
Brands: Revell Aqua Color, Tamiya, Vallejo
Enamel Paints
Pros:
- Smooth finish
- Self-leveling
- Durable
- Glossy results
Brands: Testors, Revell Email Color, Humbrol
Step-by-Step Building Process
Step 1: Preparation (30 min)
- Read instructions completely before starting
- Inventory all parts against the parts list
- Organize parts by sprue number
- Set up clean, well-lit workspace
- Gather all tools and supplies
Step 2: Dry Fit (1-2 hours)
- Test-fit parts before gluing (especially important!)
- Identify problem areas that need sanding
- Plan painting strategy (paint before or after assembly?)
- Mark parts that need modification
Step 3: Cleaning & Prep
- Remove parts carefully with sprue cutters
- Sand away nubs and gates
- Remove mold lines with knife or sandpaper
- Wash parts in warm soapy water (removes mold release)
- Let dry completely before painting
Step 4: Painting
- Prime parts (optional but recommended)
- Apply base coat in thin layers
- Let each coat dry 2-4 hours
- Add detail painting (trim, interior, etc.)
- Apply decals after gloss coat
- Seal with flat or gloss clear coat
Step 5: Assembly
- Follow instruction steps in order
- Apply thin glue to edges (less is more)
- Hold parts together 30-60 seconds
- Wipe away excess glue immediately
- Let major assemblies cure overnight
Step 6: Detailing & Weathering (Optional)
- Add panel line washes for depth
- Dry brush highlights on raised details
- Apply weathering (dirt, rust, exhaust stains)
- Add final small details (antennas, mirrors)
Common Beginner Mistakes
- Skipping Dry Fit: Always test parts before gluing. Glue is permanent!
- Too Much Glue: Melted plastic and fingerprints everywhere. Use sparingly.
- Thick Paint: Multiple thin coats > one thick coat. Be patient.
- Ignoring Instructions: Seems obvious, but easy to skip steps. Follow the guide!
- Rushing: Model building is meditation. Enjoy the process.
- Not Cleaning Parts: Paint adhesion suffers. Always wash sprues.
Recommended First Kits
Revell '69 Camaro SS (Level 2)
Classic muscle car with great detail. Perfect first car kit. ~60 pieces, 4-6 hours build time.
Revell P-51D Mustang (Level 3)
Iconic WWII fighter. Good introduction to aircraft modeling. ~80 pieces, detailed cockpit.
Revell USS Constitution (Level 4)
Historic tall ship. Complex rigging teaches patience. Beautiful display piece. 200+ pieces.
Shop Model Kits & Supplies
Browse our selection of Revell model kits, paints, tools, and accessories. Everything you need to start building.
View Model Collection →Displaying Your Finished Models
- Display Cases: Protect from dust while showing off work
- Themed Dioramas: Create scenes with backgrounds and bases
- Floating Shelves: Wall-mounted displays at eye level
- Acrylic Risers: Multi-level displays for collections
- Lighting: LED strips or spotlights enhance details
Joining the Community
Model building has an incredibly supportive community:
- Online Forums: Scale Auto Magazine forums, Britmodeller, Reddit r/modelmakers
- YouTube Channels: Quick Kits, Scale Model Medic, Andy's Hobby Headquarters
- Local Clubs: IPMS chapters in most cities, monthly meetings and contests
- Model Shows: See amazing builds, learn techniques, win awards
Conclusion
Revell model kits offer an accessible entry into a rewarding hobby that combines history, art, and craftsmanship. Start with a Level 2 kit that interests you personally—passion for the subject makes the building process more enjoyable. Take your time, learn from mistakes, and don't be afraid to ask the community for help. Before you know it, you'll have a shelf full of models and skills that keep improving with each build.