How accurate is this build time estimate?

This is a rough guide based on average build speeds. Actual time varies hugely depending on your attention to detail, fit of the kit, and how much research you do. Most modellers find their first kit of a type takes 50% longer than expected.

What counts as a complex build?

Simple: snap-fit or basic kits under 100 parts. Medium: standard kits 100-300 parts. Complex: detailed kits 300+ parts with fine detail. Extreme: large kits 500+ parts, multi-media, or competition standard builds.

Does aftermarket really add that much time?

Yes. Photo-etch alone can double your build time as each part needs careful bending, fitting and gluing. Resin parts need washing, pinning and gap-filling. A heavily detailed aftermarket build typically takes 2x the base kit time.

How should I split my time between assembly and painting?

A rough split is 40% assembly, 40% painting/finishing, and 20% preparation (cleaning, filling, sanding). Painting-heavy subjects like aircraft camo or weathered armour may shift to 30/50/20.

ModelCalcs.uk

Build Time Calculator — Estimate Your Project Duration

Estimate total build hours based on kit complexity, your experience level and how often you build.

Parts Count

Approximate number of parts in the kit

Kit ComplexityDrives the base time per part: simple ×0.6, medium ×1.0, complex ×1.5, extreme ×2.2

Your ExperienceFaster modellers finish quicker: beginner ×1.5, intermediate ×1.0, advanced ×0.7, expert ×0.5

Aftermarket DetailPhoto-etch and resin add bench time: none ×1.0, light ×1.25, moderate ×1.5, heavy ×2.0

Sessions per Week

How many separate bench sessions you fit into a typical week

Hours per Session

Average bench time per session (0.5-12 h); paint-drying waits don't count

How We Calculate This

Estimates build time using parts count modified by complexity, experience and aftermarket factors.

Formula

Base time = Parts count × 8 minutes per part
Adjusted time = Base × Complexity factor × Experience factor × Aftermarket factor
Time split = Assembly + Painting + Preparation, where Painting = remainder (always sums to 100%)
Weeks = Total hours ÷ (Sessions per week × Hours per session)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Last updated: February 2026

All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.