Key Information
- These kits range from very simple beginners kits with a dozen or so pieces, to advanced kits with hundreds
- Many of these kits are suitable for children, but check the information before you buy
- You’ll have to buy glue and paint separately for most of these kits
If you’re stuck for gift ideas this Xmas, then why not consider a model making kit?
Model kits make wonderful gifts and can range in cost from a budget stocking filler gift, to a premium model kit that will give hours of fun and result in a treasured model to put on display.
The past couple of years have been tough for everyone, so model making can offer a pastime that can be enjoyed from the comfort of your own home. Either as part of a family activity or as a gift for an individual child or adult who is looking for something challenging and fun to get stuck into.
Model kits are all graded in difficulty (generally the higher cost models are more complex, so aimed are more advanced model makers), but there’s something for everyone, even younger children. A simple model plane for example, might only have a dozen or so parts that are easily pieced together, leaving the builder to paint the model. More complex models can have several hundred parts and require some dedication (and a steady hand) to complete.
There are lots of different types of models that are great to receive as a Xmas gift. Most models are intended to be built, decorated and displayed, but others are functional. Take balsa wood aircraft kits for example – they can be flown after building them (although you may want to wait until the winter passes). Stationary steam engine models are working engines and are a great educational tool. On the other hand, there’s a range of military models (tanks, battleships, planes, submarines) that offer a fascinating glimpse into history.
Check out our range of guides below where we’ve highlighted some of the best model kits that would make Xmas gifts.
Xmas Gift Ideas for Model Making Enthusiasts
Balsa wood model planes are some of the most popular model kits as they are fun to assemble and offer a little bit of aviation history.
Stationary steam engines are great educational models, a lot of fun to use and can often be great additions to any collection. We’ve shortlisted some of our favourites here.
Tanks dominate the battlefield and turn the tide of wars as they protect and support infantry. These are models of some of the most impressive tanks from recent military history.
Metal model kits are great construction projects for adults with a range of interests in engineering, crafting and design.
Wood model kits can range from simple to complex and result in wonderful looking models that can be painted or varnished when complete.
Matchstick model kits are great, low-cost models that are a fantastic activity for the family and make a great gift for model enthusiasts and beginners alike.
Plastic models are a great introduction to model making, and these sailing ship models are wonderful pieces of naval history.
Only half the fun is building the model! These wonderful kits are working models so you can get enjoyment from them after assembly!
The Supermarine Spitfire is one of the most iconic aircraft of all time, with 24 marks and multiple variants produced. We’ve looked at some of the best Spitfire models and kits available right now.
Balsa wood model aircraft are lightweight which means they are generally simpler and cheaper than more complex models, which makes them much more accessible to many more people.
Model boats are some of the most complex and rewarding kits to assemble and these are some of the best kits suitable for adults.
Submarine models are great because they allow the imagination to explore the deep sea in vessels which are now as well known and more secretive than their naval counterparts. We’ve shortlisted the best submarine models for you to check out.
Modern battleships have dominated the seas since the industrial era and represent some of the most formidable fighting machines mankind has ever created.
These models are largely old tractors and steam rollers that would have been used for more heavy duty construction work (anything that an old steam engine could do more efficiently than humans and horses).
Vintage aircraft make wonderful model kits as their designs have features and detail that we no longer see in modern aviation.