Finding the perfect gift can be surprisingly tricky, especially when you want to give something meaningful, long-lasting, and genuinely fun. That’s why hobby-based gifts continue to grow in popularity. They’re creative, hands-on, screen-free, and offer hours of enjoyment long after the wrapping paper has gone.

Whether you’re shopping for a child taking their first steps into a new passion or an adult looking for a relaxing pastime, starter kits make the ideal entry point. Below is a friendly guide to help you choose the right gift by budget, featuring some of the most beginner-friendly collections available at Hobbyco.

Why Starter Kits Make Brilliant Gifts

Starter kits are designed to help beginners feel confident right away. They usually include simplified build systems, fewer tools, and instructions that are approachable even if someone’s never picked up a model kit, puzzle, or controller before.

They’re also affordable, rewarding, and offer a satisfying “I built this!” moment, something you don’t get from most traditional gifts.

Budget-Friendly Picks (Perfect for Gifting this Christmas)

These options deliver maximum fun at an accessible price, making them great for kids, teens, adults, and anyone curious about starting a new hobby.

1. Bandai Entry Grade Kits

Great for: Absolute beginners, kids, anime fans, newcomers to model building
Why they’re giftable: Gunpla Entry Grade kits snap together easily with no glue or paint required. They’re fast, clean, and incredibly beginner-friendly, making them a fantastic first step into model building.

2. Aoshima Snap Kits

Great for: Car lovers, modellers wanting a simple build, casual hobbyists
Why they’re giftable: These Aoshima snap kits offer sleek designs without the complexity of traditional scale models. Because they don’t require paints or glue, they’re perfect for anyone who wants a fuss-free introduction to model building.

3. Revell Starter Kits & Model Kit Gift Sets

Great for: Kids, families, nostalgia lovers, new builders
Why they’re giftable: These Revell starter gift sets often include everything you need in one box — model, paints, brush, etc. It’s the easiest “complete gift” for someone brand new to modelling, and they cover themes from aircraft to classic vehicles.

4. Ugears Wooden Mechanical Models

Great for: Puzzle enthusiasts, adults, teens, tactile learners
Why they’re giftable: Ugears models combine the charm of wooden puzzles with the thrill of mechanical movement. They’re eco-friendly, beautifully designed, and don’t require tools, glue, or paint, making them one of the most elegant starter hobbies available.

5. Bandai Pokémon Model Kits

Great for: Kids, Pokémon fans, casual builders
Why they’re giftable: These adorable Pokémon snap-fit kits come together quickly, look fantastic on display, and are incredibly friendly for younger builders. A great alternative to traditional toys, with an added “I made this!” moment.

6. Initial D Model Kits

Great for: Anime fans, car modellers, collectors
Why they’re giftable: Initial D model kits make amazing gifts for someone who loves Japanese car culture or anime. Straightforward to build and highly collectable.

7. Under-100-Piece Puzzles

Great for: Very young children, relaxed hobbyists, stocking fillers
Why they’re giftable: Small jigsaw puzzles are an excellent “quick win” gift. They build confidence in younger puzzlers and offer a calm, screen-free activity adults enjoy too.

8. OKTO Sensory Art Kits

Great for: Kids, teens, adults — especially anyone who enjoys art, creativity, or a relaxing sensory activity.
Why they’re giftable: OKTO Sensory Art kits are air-dried clay art sets that let users mould, shape and “paint-with-clay” — no prior experience needed. Each kit comes with everything required (canvas, clay, tools, varnish, and instructions), so it’s a complete gift in one box.

Bigger Kits & Beginner Sets

If you want something a little more substantial, these mid-range picks offer bigger builds, longer engagement time, and more impressive results.

Santa’s Express Train Set

This charming battery-operated train set from Hornby is perfect for families and younger children and brings instant joy at Christmas or any time of year.

Entry-Level Radio Control (RC) Cars

Starter RC kits offer excitement straight out of the box. They’re fantastic for beginners because they deliver hands-on action, outdoor fun, and a taste of a hobby many stay with for years.

Slot Car Starter Sets

Slot car starter sets are fast, thrilling, and endlessly expandable. making them brilliant long-term hobby gifts. Beginners can set up and race straight away, and enthusiasts can continue upgrading their tracks and cars.

How to Choose the Right Starter Kit

When selecting a hobby gift, consider:

✔ Age & skill level

Younger children may benefit from snap kits or small puzzles, while older teens and adults might love wooden models or RC sets.

✔ Interests

Do they love cars? Anime? Engineering? Relaxing puzzles? Matching the theme to the recipient makes the experience more personal.

✔ Time commitment

Some kits take 20 minutes; others take several evenings. Pick something that suits their lifestyle.

✔ Tools required

Many of the kits above need no tools at all, which makes them ideal for gifting. If you’re gifting a more advanced model, consider adding a small tool set or glue.

FAQs

What is the best beginner-friendly hobby gift?

Snap-fit model kits such as Bandai Entry Grade or Pokémon kits are ideal starters because they don’t require glue, paint, or prior experience.

Is a model kit a good gift for kids?

Yes, as long as you pick a kit suitable for their age. Under-100-piece puzzles, Pokémon kits, and Entry Grade models are perfect for younger builders.

Do starter kits need extra tools?

Most beginner kits do not. However, more detailed model sets may benefit from basic cutters or glue. The product page usually lists what’s needed.

What hobby gift lasts the longest?

Wooden mechanical models, RC sets, and slot car tracks are expandable hobbies that can grow over time.

Is a hobby gift suitable for adults?

Absolutely. Adults often enjoy the relaxation and satisfaction hobby kits provide — especially puzzles, Ugears models, and car or anime-themed builds.

Give the Gift of a Hobby this Holiday Season

Starter hobby kits make thoughtful, rewarding gifts for absolutely anyone, from curious beginners to collectors looking for their next project. With so many accessible, budget-friendly, and high-quality options, you can easily find something that inspires creativity and offers hours of enjoyment.

If you’re unsure where to begin, explore the collections above; they’re full of beginner gems that make gifting easy, memorable, and fun.

With locations conveniently located throughout Metro Sydney, finding the perfect hobby shop near you has never been easier. Experience the excitement of exploring our vast selection of hobby products, expert advice, and exceptional customer service. Discover why Hobbyco is the number one hobby shop in Australia. Customers can buy products online through our platform.