ModelCalcs.uk
Display Case Calculator — Size Your Showcase
Calculate display case dimensions and shelf spacing for your model collection.
How We Calculate This
Calculates the internal dimensions needed for a display case based on model sizes, clearances and shelf arrangement. All inputs and outputs are in millimetres.
Formula
- Case width = (Models per row × (Model length + Clearance)) + Clearance + (2 × Min wall gap)
- Case depth = Model width + (2 × Clearance) + (2 × Min wall gap)
- Shelf spacing = Model height + Top clearance
- Case height = (Shelves × Shelf spacing) + Clearance + Base thickness
The clearance is applied on every face so each model sits in its own air gap, and the min wall gap adds the case-wall material thickness to each opposing side so the figures match the panel you actually cut. Total capacity = models per shelf × number of shelves; if your collection exceeds that, add a shelf or switch arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions
A minimum of 20-30mm clearance on each side is recommended. For dusty environments, add more. For models with delicate aerials or antennae, increase the top clearance to 50mm or more.
Acrylic (Perspex) cases are lightweight, UV-resistant and come in many sizes. Glass cases look more premium but are heavier and more fragile. The IKEA DETOLF that collectors long relied on has been discontinued — its current IKEA UK replacement is the BLÅLIDEN glass-door cabinet (35 × 32 × 151 cm, roughly £75–£90), though it is noticeably smaller than the old Detolf. Original Detolf units now only trade second-hand at variable prices.
Glass shelves are more scratch-resistant and look cleaner. Acrylic is lighter and safer if you have children. For heavy models (1:32 or diecast), use 6mm glass minimum. For lightweight plastic kits, 3-4mm acrylic is fine.
UV light fades paint over time. Keep cases away from direct sunlight. Use UV-filtering acrylic or apply UV film to glass. LED lighting inside the case is preferable to placing cases near windows.
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.