Thank you for purchasing one of our scale model vehicles or figures. To ensure you have the best modelling experience we can offer please see below our FAQ (frequently asked question) list which should address any queries you may have regarding your purchase.

Q What age and skill level are the 3D models suitable for?
A These models should not be considered as toys, the complexity, fragility and use of certain chemicals during the assembly process should only be attempted by fully supervised children over the age of 15 and whilst the assembly overall is very simple the preparation and finishing of a model requires at least moderate experience in the hobby.
 

Q What is 3D printing and why is this different from my normal plastic kit?
A 3D printing is a deposition process whereby the model is made up of many layers of melted plastic (FDM-fused deposition modelling) or cured resin (SLA - stereolithography). It is a painstaking process that takes many hours to complete and uses a digital 3-dimensional file to create the final image. A normal plastic kit uses either high pressure molten plastic or resin which is injected or poured into a steel or rubber mould and takes minutes to complete the final model pieces.

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Q What justifies the cost of a 3D model?
A All 3D Gizmo’s models are bespoke creations and are not available within the mainstream hobby. They are predominately large scale and are made in limited numbers to ensure the speciality of the model. The creation of a model is a lengthy and expensive process - a vehicle can take anywhere from 200 hours to 600 hours to create, with our largest model of the Nautilus taking 2000 hours plus. In essence these are specialist bespoke creations which have a considerable handmade element and represent a significant investment in time, materials, equipment and skills.

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Q Why is the surface of the model lined of flatted (curved surfaces) and what do I do with them?
A Due to the manufacturing process this is perfectly normal as the machines that are used layer the plastic or resin onto the model in a gradual deposition process. This will inevitably show up on the finished item - on curves sometimes this may also cause slight flatting. This is due to the level of facets called Voxels used in the design to create the curved surface. The less or larger the voxels are, the more chance of flatting on the final item. Both print lines and surface flats can be either gently rubbed down or on more obvious areas it's best to use a filling medium such as a surfacer/primer or spray putty for larger areas or a mixed filler on smaller areas. Once fully dried the surface can be rubbed back smooth until the lines or flats are no longer visible.

Q What do I glue the parts together with?
A Any proprietary cyanoacrylate glue will work. Prior to gluing though it’s advisable to carefully prepare and check the joint first by gently sanding the two mating surfaces to remove any flash. This ensures a good, clean, flat face-to-face seal. For bonding it's best to use a medium glue as a thin glue is often too quick to bond and it's best to be able to position the two pieces securely prior to applying the bonding agent. I’ve found that a good quality cyano ‘GEL’ is ideal as it allows for a certain amount of repositioning and gap filling during application. Should you wish the bond to be immediate then the use of a cyano activator spray will pretty much cure the bond instantaneously on application. PLEASE FOLLOW ALL THE MANUFACTURER'S SAFETY INFORMATION WHEN USING ANY CHEMICAL PRODUCT.

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Q What do I use to prime/paint the model?
A Any regular model paint primer or indeed car body primer is okay to use (I’ve used spray etch primer to good effect, this gives a lovely keyed surface). You will need, of course, to ensure that this is compatible with the paints you intend to use for the final finish. And again, any model paint can be used to finish the completed paint scheme.

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Q I have noticed that there is far less surface detail included on the 3D model than my other injection moulded kits?
A Due to the nature of the manufacturing process, using FDM restricts the amount of detail that can be accurately added to the surface. Whereas using when resin printing the level of detail achieved is staggeringly better than an average injection moulded model. However this can only be achieved on smaller vehicles and figures given the size of the machinery. In essence, a 3D model is an excellent base for modelling and is aimed at someone who is looking to add as much or as little detailing and features as they wish.

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Q Can I get additional detailing items to add to my model?
A Yes. 3DG manufacture and sell a range of complementary modelling accessories, i.e. tools, buckets, guns, etc., that can be purchased and used to upgrade your model.

 

Q I can’t see/find the model I want, can you do ‘requests’, i.e. make to order
A Yes. However, one-offs attract a considerable charge as the more unusual models will have no retail future save from the initial order. Also given the nature of the design process a lead time in excess of 8-12 weeks should be expected.

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Once again, thank you for your purchase and we hope you thoroughly enjoy your modelling experience with it.

Dave, Kirstie and the 3D Gizmo Team