Ever since modeling started there have been tools to support the hobby.
The most common tool is probably the hobby knife itself - made famous by X-Acto and Excel. Now you can get multiple styles of hobby knives of all kinds, with soft grips or other features that make them better than ever before.
Cutting mats are another popular hobby basic. These allow you to safely cut model parts, decals or anything else easily. They provide a soft surface (called "self healing" sometimes) and most have lines and graphics to help with measurements and scales.
Another popular basic tool are the side cutters - or nippers. These allow you to get a clean cut when removing plastic model parts from sprue trees. No more twisting, breaking, or injuring the edge of your model parts.
Lately scribing and carving tools have added a new skill to modeling. Opening up panel lines, re-scribing panel lines, and adding even more fine details to your models.
Some tools are timeless - such as a pin vise, drill bits, saws, and hobby blades.
In our modeling hobby today, even power tools can help with your building (especially if you build dioramas and scenes, or multi material kits that have resin, metal, and other mediums).
With cutting, carving, and chopping, always do it safety. These tasks can have flying debris. Add a set of safety glasses to your model desk tools and keep your eyes safe.
|