Looking for the perfect gift for someone who’s new to the world of model making? I’ve put together a selection of kits that are ideal for beginners, carefully chosen because they’re simple to build, easy to follow and a great introduction to model making.
You don’t need to be an expert or have loads of experience to get started! These kits make it easy to learn the basics, build confidence and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something yourself, all while having a little fun along the way.
We fell in love with the iconic Net Huts of Hastings, so we had to bring them to life in this Postcard Model Kit. The Net Huts are a well-loved feature of the Hastings seafront, traditionally used by local fishermen to store their fishing nets and tools. These charming structures have been a staple of the town’s maritime culture for over a century, adding a unique character to the coastal landscape.
This kit includes two net huts, each just a little taller than our shorter versions, offering a more realistic and refined look.
Difficulty Level: Easy
What You’ll Need:
Cutting mat
Scalpel or craft knife
PVA or wood glue
A selection of paints or marker pens to personalise the huts
A little piece of the seaside to put under the Christmas tree!
Inspired by the iconic Net Huts of Hastings, this model Kit lets you bring a little coastal charm to life. These much-loved huts have been part of Hastings’ seafront for over a century, originally used by local fishermen to store their nets and tools.
The kit includes two slightly taller, more detailed net huts, making a lovely little project for anyone who enjoys getting creative.
Bring your local village shop to life with this charming Z-scale model kit! Whether you want to create a butcher’s, baker’s, or candlestick maker’s shop, this kit offers all the essentials to build your own quaint little storefront. With two large windows at the front to display your wares and living quarters situated on the second floor, it’s perfect for adding a touch of authenticity to your model village. The kit also comes complete with brick covering paper, allowing you to add realistic texture to your building.
Difficulty: Experienced
What You’ll Need to Complete This Kit:
Cutting mat for precision
Scalpel for fine details
PVA/Wood glue for strong assembly
A selection of paints or markers to personalise your model
This Z-scale kit lets you create your own traditional shopfront, whether it’s a butcher’s, baker’s or candlestick maker’s. With two front windows, upstairs living quarters and brick-effect paper for added detail, it’s a fun and simple project for anyone new to model making.
For anyone who has walked along the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, this iconic little red roof hut perched on the shingle, gazing out towards the sea and Camber Sands, will be instantly familiar. This model kit captures that coastal charm perfectly, bringing a piece of the reserve into your collection. The kit includes a wooden base for display and a little bag of scenics (sand and lichen) to help you add realistic detailing.
Difficulty: Easy
What You’ll Need to Complete This Kit:
Cutting mat for precision
Scalpel for detailed cutting
PVA/Wood glue for assembly
A selection of paints or markers for personalising your model
N-scale vs Z-scale
In basic terms, N-scale (1:148) is larger than Z-scale (1:220), making it easier to assemble. If you're new to model making, we recommend starting with N-scale as it's more manageable and still offers plenty of intricate detail.
Recreate the distinctive beauty of Rye Harbour and add this iconic coastal hut to your collection with this easy-to-assemble model.
Inspired by the iconic red-roof hut at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, this model kit is a lovely way to recreate a familiar seaside scene. Complete with a wooden display base and scenic details to bring it to life, it’s a fun little project and a thoughtful gift for coastal lovers and model-making beginners alike.