FormToyStudio

FAQ

During the metal assembly process, you may encounter some problems; here are the answers you need.

What are Piececool Metal Model Kits?

Piececool metal model kits are precision-crafted DIY models made from high-quality stainless steel and brass.

Each kit includes one or more photo-etched metal sheets, containing finely detailed parts that are carefully designed to fit together without glue, paint, or solder. All components are assembled using tabs and slots, guided by clear, step-by-step illustrated instructions.

Many Piececool models are also pre-coloured using advanced printing technology, ensuring sharp detail and long-lasting colour accuracy.

The result is a hands-on building experience that combines engineering precision, material quality, and artistic design.

Piececool offers a wide and diverse range of metal model kits, suitable for different interests and experience levels.

Popular categories include:

  • Military models – tanks, battleships, aircraft, and armored vehicles

  • Architectural models – world-famous landmarks and historic buildings

  • Fantasy models – dragons, knights, and mythical creatures

  • Chinese culture series – traditional architecture, ceremonial designs, and cultural icons

With varying levels of complexity, Piececool kits appeal to both beginners and experienced model builders.

Before starting, it’s recommended to:

  • Clear a well-lit and comfortable workspace

  • Read through the instructions to understand the build sequence

  • Identify all parts and prepare your tools

  • Plan to build in stages, especially for more complex models

Instructions

Every kit includes detailed visual instructions. Key symbols to watch for:

  • Blue dot: bend the tab 90° to secure the part

  • Green triangle: twist the tab 90° for a tight structural connection

Pay close attention to fold lines and part orientation, especially on coloured models.

Recommended Tools

While no special tools are required, these can greatly improve accuracy and comfort:

  • Clippers or side cutters

  • Needle-nose pliers

  • Tweezers for small parts

  • Cylindrical tools (pens, rods, or shaping tools) for curved sections

  • A cutting mat to protect your surface

Techniques

  • Always clip parts gently from the sheet to avoid stress

  • Bend and shape slowly—metal weakens if bent repeatedly

  • Use guides (like pens or rods) to form smooth curves

  • Align long folds carefully along etched lines for clean results

Piececool metal model kits are designed for ages 14 and up and are especially popular among adult hobbyists.

Thanks to a wide range of difficulty levels, there is a suitable kit for:

  • Beginners discovering metal model building

  • Casual builders looking for a relaxing, focused activity

  • Experienced hobbyists seeking complex, rewarding projects

These models are ideal for anyone who enjoys hands-on creativity, precision craftsmanship, and meaningful display pieces.

First of all, don’t panic. Breakages usually happen when parts are bent too far, or too fast, so our advice is always to build patiently.

However, if you’ve broken a part, there are a few tricks to fix your model (and no-one but you will ever know)!

Our two favourites are:

  • Apply one or two layers of good quality sticky tape to the back of the part, across the break. We use clear packing tape for this, trimming it to shape with a craft knife or sharp scissors.

    You can then shape the part, fix it in place, and for extra stability add a tiny drop of superglue to the outside of the break.

    This fix results in a strong repair that no one can see.

  • Shape the part according to the instructions, and use some plasticine / modelling clay to fill the space inside the broken part to give it extra support.

    We actually do this if we are building models for TV shows when we know they are going to be handled – a small amount of weight makes them more resilient.