Best Model Kits to Build with Dad This Father’s Day

Some Father’s Day gifts are opened and placed on a shelf. A model kit gives you something to sit down, build and enjoy together.

The best model kits to build with Dad depend on how much time you have, your combined experience and the subjects you both enjoy. A simple snap-fit car or Pokémon kit can be completed in a short session, while a traditional automotive or military model can become a project shared across several weekends.

This guide compares beginner-friendly snap kits, Gunpla, science-fiction subjects and traditional scale models to help you choose a Father’s Day build that suits both of you.

Explore Hobbyco’s model-kit range to compare current cars, aircraft, military vehicles, ships, Gunpla and pop-culture models.

TL;DR: Which Model Kit Should You Build with Dad?

• For a first model: Choose a Pokémon QUICK!! kit with simple, tool-free assembly.

• For car enthusiasts: Choose an Aoshima Snap Kit for a pre-coloured car that does not require paint or glue.

• For approachable Gunpla: Choose a Bandai Entry Grade model for a poseable build with accessible assembly.

• For Star Wars fans: Choose the Bandai 1/72 X-wing Starfighter for snap-fit construction and a detailed display.

• For traditional model builders: Choose a Tamiya automotive kit that requires paint, cement and careful assembly.

• For an extended project: Choose a detailed aircraft, tank or ship that can be completed across multiple sessions.

Always check the recommended age, included components and required tools before beginning.

Why Model Kits Make Meaningful Father’s Day Gifts

A model kit provides both a gift and an activity.

Building together creates opportunities to share skills, stories and interests. Dad may explain why he loves a particular car, aircraft or fictional universe, while a younger or newer builder can bring fresh enthusiasm to the project.

A shared build can also:

• Encourage time away from screens

• Introduce someone to model building

• Turn Dad’s knowledge into practical guidance

• Create a display piece with a personal story

• Continue beyond Father’s Day

• Become the beginning of a regular hobby

The right project does not need to be large or complicated. A small kit that both people finish and enjoy can be more memorable than an ambitious model that never leaves the box.

Father’s Day Model Kits Compared

Build times vary according to experience, preparation, painting and detailing. A first model will usually take longer than the same kit built by an experienced modeller.

Best First Model to Build Together

Bandai Pokémon QUICK!! Pikachu

The Bandai Pokémon QUICK!! Pikachu is one of the most accessible ways to introduce someone to model building.

It contains 15 pre-coloured parts and uses straightforward assembly. The listing states that tools, paint and glue are not required. Stickers provide the remaining details, and the completed Pikachu stands approximately 7.5 centimetres tall.

This is a strong choice if:

• One or both builders are completely new to model kits

• You want to finish the project in one sitting

• Dad enjoys Pokémon or pop-culture collectables

• You want to avoid paint, cement and cutting tools

• A younger family member will build with adult guidance

Because the kit is simple, both builders can concentrate on reading the instructions, identifying parts and assembling cleanly without managing several new techniques at once.

Hobbyco’s guide to building Pokémon model kits provides more tips for clean assembly and optional detailing.

Best Snap-Fit Car to Build with Dad

Aoshima 1/32 Snap Toyota 86

For a Dad who loves Japanese performance cars, the Aoshima 1/32 Snap Toyota 86 offers a satisfying automotive project without the preparation required by a traditional model kit.

The model uses only 22 parts. Its orange metallic body is reproduced using coloured plastic, so painting is not required. The parts use a fit-in assembly system that also removes the need for glue.

This kit suits builders who:

• Love Japanese cars

• Want an achievable first automotive model

• Prefer a clean build without paint fumes or drying time

• Have only a short Father’s Day session available

• Want an attractive display model immediately after assembly

A snap kit is not simply a toy car that arrives finished. You still follow instructions, identify components and create the final model yourself. The lower part count makes it easier for two people to work together without the project becoming overwhelming.

For a closer look at the format, read Hobbyco’s Aoshima Snap Kit build series.

Best Gunpla Build for Dad

Bandai Entry Grade Nu Gundam

The Bandai Entry Grade 1/144 Nu Gundam provides an approachable introduction to Gunpla.

Once assembled, the model offers a wide range of articulation and includes a beam rifle, shield and decal stickers. The poseable result gives Dad and the other builder something to enjoy after construction is complete.

Choose Entry Grade if:

• Dad enjoys Gundam or anime

• You want more articulation than a static scale model

• One builder is interested in progressing into Gunpla

• You want a project that can be detailed later

• Posing and photography are part of the appeal

A clean, straight build is enough for a strong result. More experienced builders can return later to add panel lining, improve decals or refine visible nub marks.

If you want to continue detailing the model, Hobbyco’s guides to panel lining and applying Gunpla waterslide decals explain useful next steps.

Best Model Kit for Star Wars Fans

Bandai 1/72 X-wing Starfighter

The Bandai Star Wars 1/72 X-wing Starfighter turns one of cinema’s most recognisable spacecraft into a detailed shared build.

The kit uses pre-coloured plastic and snap-fit assembly. It includes seated and standing pilot figures, R2-D2, R5-D4, landing gear, canopy options, proton-torpedo effects and Death Star display components.

This kit is a good Father’s Day choice if Dad:

• Grew up with the original Star Wars films

• Enjoys science fiction and spacecraft

• Wants more detail than a very simple snap kit

• Likes models with display and posing options

• Would enjoy recreating a familiar film scene

One person can work through the main spacecraft while the other prepares display components and accessories. Both builders should continue following the instruction sequence so parts are not assembled prematurely.

Best Traditional Car Model for Dad

Tamiya 1/24 Morris Mini Cooper 1275S Mk.I

The Tamiya 1/24 Morris Mini Cooper 1275S Mk.I is designed for builders ready to use traditional modelling techniques.

The kit contains approximately 120 parts and requires assembly, paint and glue. It recreates the compact Mini Cooper with engine, interior and chrome-plated details. The bonnet, doors and boot can be displayed open, creating opportunities to show the completed interior and mechanical work.

This is a better choice when:

• Dad already has some modelling experience

• Both builders enjoy classic cars or motorsport history

• You want a project that continues beyond Father’s Day

• Painting and detailing are part of the appeal

• You have a suitable modelling workspace

Traditional plastic models reward patience. Dry-fitting, preparing mating surfaces, painting subassemblies and allowing adhesives to cure can turn one box into several enjoyable sessions.

Before starting, review Hobbyco’s Tamiya Cement guide and the comparison of plastic cement versus super glue.

Best Extended Father’s Day Project

Tamiya 1/35 M24 Chaffee

For Dad and an older or more experienced modeller, the Tamiya 1/35 U.S. Light Tank M24 Chaffee offers a more involved build.

The model contains approximately 230 parts and includes crew figures. Paint and glue are required, and the project provides opportunities to work on armour construction, figures, markings and optional weathering.

This kit suits:

• Experienced scale modellers

• Military-history enthusiasts

• Builders interested in painting and weathering

• People who want a multi-session project

• Dad and an older builder who can divide the work carefully

An extended build does not need to be finished on Father’s Day. Use the day to inspect the contents, read the instructions, plan colours and begin the main assembly. Set another date to continue the project together.

Snap-Fit or Traditional Model Kit?

Choose a snap-fit model when:

• One or both builders are beginners

• Time is limited

• You do not have paint or cement

• You want a result in one session

• The activity involves a younger builder

Choose a traditional kit when:

• Dad already enjoys scale modelling

• You have a suitable work area

• Both builders want to paint and customise

• You are comfortable using modelling tools

• The project can continue over several sessions

Neither format is automatically better. The best model kit to build with Dad is the one that matches your available time and experience.

What Do You Need Before Starting?

Check the product instructions before purchasing supplies. Requirements vary between kits.

A traditional model-building setup may include:

• Plastic nippers

• A hobby knife

• Sanding sticks or files

• A cutting mat

• Plastic cement or another suitable adhesive

• Paints and brushes

• Tweezers

• Masking tape

• Small clamps

• Suitable ventilation

• Eye protection

Hobbyco’s guide to the tools needed to start model building explains the essential items and which tools can be added later.

You can also browse Hobbyco’s hobby supplies for paints, cement, cutting tools and finishing materials.

How to Make a Shared Build Work

Choose the subject together

Dad may prefer classic cars, aircraft or military vehicles, while the other builder may be more interested in Pokémon, Gundam or Star Wars. Select something that gives both people a reason to participate.

Read the instructions first

Look through the entire assembly sequence before removing parts. Identify which sections can be completed separately and which must follow a fixed order.

Divide the work carefully

One person might prepare parts while the other checks the instructions. On a larger kit, separate subassemblies such as the interior, chassis or display base may be shared.

Do not separate tasks if it could cause parts to be assembled in the wrong order.

Dry-fit before using adhesive

Test how the components align before applying cement or CA. Correcting a fit problem is much easier before the adhesive begins to cure.

Avoid rushing the finish

Paint and adhesive need time to dry or cure. If the model cannot be completed on Father’s Day, schedule another build session instead of forcing the final stages.

Take photographs

Photograph the project at the beginning, during assembly and when it is complete. The build becomes part of the Father’s Day memory rather than only a finished object.

Model-Building Safety

Follow the product instructions and age guidance.

• Provide capable adult supervision when knives or nippers are used.

• Cut away from hands and bodies.

• Wear suitable eye protection when clipping parts.

• Use paints, cement and other modelling chemicals with appropriate ventilation.

• Keep adhesives away from eyes and skin.

• Keep small parts away from young children and pets.

• Allow paints and adhesives to dry or cure according to their labels.

• Store tools and chemicals safely after the session.

A snap-fit model may reduce the need for paint and glue, but small-parts warnings and age guidance still apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best beginner model kit to build with Dad?

A simple snap-fit kit is usually the best starting point. Bandai Pokémon QUICK!! kits and Aoshima Snap Kits use fewer parts and do not require paint or glue for basic assembly.

Can we finish a model kit on Father’s Day?

A small snap-fit kit may be completed in one session. Traditional models requiring paint, cement and surface preparation will normally take longer. Treat the project as shared time rather than a race to finish.

Are model kits suitable for children?

Suitability depends on the individual product, recommended age, small parts and required tools. Follow the manufacturer’s age guidance and provide capable adult supervision.

Do all model kits require paint and glue?

No. Many snap-fit kits use pre-coloured plastic and push-fit construction. Traditional scale models commonly require paint and cement. Always check the individual listing and instructions.

What should we build if Dad likes cars?

Choose an Aoshima Snap Kit for an accessible first car build or a traditional Tamiya automotive kit for a more detailed project involving paint and cement.

What model kit should we choose for a Star Wars fan?

Bandai’s Star Wars model kits offer detailed subjects with snap-fit assembly. The 1/72 X-wing is a strong option for fans of the original trilogy.

What tools does a beginner need?

Requirements vary, but useful basic tools include nippers, a cutting mat, sanding sticks and tweezers. Traditional kits may also need paint and a compatible adhesive.

Where can I buy model kits in Australia?

Hobbyco offers automotive, aircraft, military, ship, Gunpla, science-fiction and character model kits online and through its Sydney stores.

Build Something Together This Father’s Day

The best model kit is not necessarily the largest or most complicated one. It is the project that gives you and Dad time to sit down, solve problems and create something together.

Choose a quick Pokémon or automotive snap kit for a first build, assemble a poseable Gundam, recreate an X-wing or begin a traditional scale model that can continue across several weekends.

Explore model kits at Hobbyco and choose a Father’s Day project worth building together.

As Australia’s largest hobby shop, Hobbyco is the best place to shop for model kits, hobby supplies and serious building fun online or in store.