Finished Models: Some Great Ways To Display Them

You have a lot of time and money invested in your model collection. They are quite fragile so you need a way to keep them safe and clean. I too want to keep my collection clean and safe so here are some great options to keep them protected.

The best way to display your finished models and keep them clean and safe is to use closed display cases, a stacked display cabinet, keeping them on shelves, and display them in a covered diorama. Most importantly keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible.

There are a lot of little things that are important to understand about storing your finished models, but luckily I am here to make sure you don’t damage or harm your models in any way!

Best Reasons For Display Cases For Models

Display cases will protect the model from dust and curious hands while keeping it clearly visible. Display cases are also great for creating nice organization schemes and your display can easily grow as your model collection grows.

I feel that all my models deserve their own display case. This will work until there are just too many to keep in a cabinet. Then we have to pick our favorites to have their own display case or we can get more display room.

Display cases come in all sizes and shapes, some can be mounted to a wall, some can be stacked on one another.

Another option for larger models can be a fish tank. There are large display cases out there including model plane and boat cases.

Here are a few options available.

Pioneer Plastics 94CD 1:24 Scale Model Mirror Display Case, Clear:

Made from high quality acrylic, this case features a mirrored floor and beveled edges. The interior dimensions are: 9 inches x 4.38 inches x 4.13 inches.

Deluxe Clear Acrylic Model Plane 12″ x 12″ x 4″ Display Case:

This is a good size for any 1/24 model car, some larger trucks and smaller boats.

The case is a simple two piece set up, top sits unattached on jet black acrylic bottom. Included is a free micro fiber cleaning cloth. The clear sides allow model to be seen from all angles.

This case is hand crafted with polished edges and UV protection. Length is 12 inches, depth is 12 inches and height is 4 inches.

Advantages Of Display Cabinets For Models

Display cabinets are the best way because they combine shelves and display cases in one, some of them have locking doors, and they can be moved and placed where you want them. They come in many sizes to suit the models you want to display.

Pre-made cabinets are the easiest to use, you just have to choose the style and size that best suits the models you want to display. Display cabinets are the best way to display finished models in my opinion.

There is a variety of plans to be found for free or purchased off the internet if you are inclined yo build your own.

Here are some examples that can be purchased.

3-Shelf Glass Curio Cabinet Black and Clear:

This is a modern version of a true classic that makes a fabulous addition to a transitional space. With linear styling and a fresh look, this curio cabinet offers a perfect venue for showcasing treasured models.

Bold black tops a simple frame, top, and base. Tempered glass shelves create transparent space for display.

This cabinet is made of pine, paper veneer, particle board and glass. The finish is black and clear with three shelves that hold 33 lbs each.

IKEA Glass-Door Cabinet, Black-Brown:

With this glass-door cabinet, you can show off as well as protect your models. Perfect for car models or models up to 18 inches long.

You can easily brighten up your display objects as the glass-door cabinet is designed to include lighting.

This cabinet measures 66” x 18” x 17” with about 15” between shelves. It’s made of glass and wood with a hinged, magnetically latching glass door.

Shelving For Model Kit Displaying

If you want your models in a case or in the open, you’ll probably want display shelves of some kind. There are plenty of options for shelving, like book cases or wall shelving. They come in any size you need and are inexpensive to build or purchase.

If you do want new shelving and you have an idea of how you would like to arrange your models here are a few options for purchase.

Display Cabinet Wall Mount Doors Unit Collectibles (check eBay):

Ideally suited to present the highlights of your collection: a classically designed shelf in beechwood decor with glass fronts.

This cabinet is made of laminated flat pressboard, beechwood veneer, and glass. Measures 80 x 9.5 cm x 60 cm. with five shelves.

Why Use Dioramas For Model Kits?

The biggest reason to use dioramas for many modelers is they don’t feel the model is complete unless its displayed in a diorama setting. Diorama making can be a terrific way to expand on a current hobby. A great example is a tank in a battle scene or an old truck in a field.

Dioramas get to be really interesting when they are made to look realistic. That is when they closely mimic natural scenes.

To build a diorama you first create the frame. This is the major landscape shape and you can do this by carving foam or by using sheets of paper towels soaked in plaster of paris.

Next you paint the basic colors on the landscape, apply the major terrain textures like grass and water then add more detailed terrain like trees, brushes, stones and other natural objects.

This adds a whole new dimension to your model building. Just think of all the different scenes you can build.

DIY Garage Parking Lot Scene:

Final Thoughts:

There are a lot of ways to display your models, whether for protection or to show your work to others. Setting up your display can add a lot of fun and enjoyment to your modeling hobby. Happy Modeling!