Unlocking the Full Potential of Gunpla: Why Painting Your Model Kits is a Game-Changer

Gunpla, short for Gundam plastic model kits, is a popular hobby among enthusiasts worldwide. While assembling these pre-cut pieces into intricate mecha robots from the Gundam anime series is exciting, taking the time to paint your Gunpla can enhance the experience even further. In this article, we will explore why painting your Gunpla can benefit you in more ways than one.

Gunpla can be assembled and enjoyed without painting. Gunpla kits are designed with color-separated parts that mimic the look of the mecha robots from the Gundam anime series, making them visually appealing even without additional painting. This makes Gunpla a great hobby for beginners or those who do not have the time, skill, or resources to paint their models.

Some Gunpla enthusiasts prefer not to paint their models, either because they appreciate the look of the color-separated parts or because they find the assembly process more enjoyable than painting. Others may not have access to the necessary painting tools or may not want to invest in them.

However, it's worth noting that painting can enhance the appearance of a Gunpla model, adding a level of realism, customization, and personal touch. It can also be a fun and rewarding experience that allows you to showcase your creativity and skill. Nevertheless, painting is not a requirement for enjoying Gunpla and many enthusiasts choose to assemble their models without painting them.

In this article, we will explore why painting your Gunpla can benefit you in more ways than one.

Difference between Color Separated Parts vs Painted Gunpla

the color separated parts refer to the pre-cut pieces of the kit that are molded in different colors. The colors are designed to match the appearance of the mecha robots from the Gundam anime series. In other words, when you assemble a Gunpla kit with color-separated parts, you don't need to paint it to get a good-looking model.

On the other hand, painting a Gunpla involves using paints to change the colors or add different effects to the model. Unlike color-separated parts, painting allows you to customize your Gunpla with a wider range of colors, add shadows, highlights, and weathering effects, and make the model unique.

While color-separated parts provide a good starting point for beginners or those who want a quick and easy build, painting allows hobbyists to take their models to the next level by adding a level of realism, customization, and personal touch. Painted Gunpla models often have more intricate and detailed appearances than those made from color-separated parts.

E.F.S.F White Zaku before painting

E.F.S.F After Color Alteration with Custom Paint

More Customizations

Painting your Gunpla allows you to personalize it to your liking, giving you the ability to change its color scheme, add weathering effects, and incorporate decals or stickers to make it stand out. This customization allows you to showcase your unique style and preferences.

Realism

Although the pre-cut pieces in a Gunpla kit are impressive on their own, painting your model can add a realistic element to it. With the addition of shadows, highlights, and other effects, you can create a mecha robot that is lifelike and identical to those in the anime series.

Challenge

Painting your Gunpla is an exciting challenge that requires skill, patience, and attention to detail. By taking on this challenge, you can improve your painting skills and learn new techniques that can be applied to other models and hobbies.

Painting your Gunpla is an enjoyable and rewarding experience that can take your model to the next level. With the ability to customize, add realism, take on a challenge, connect with the community, and increase its value, painting your Gunpla is an opportunity you don't want to miss.