> Title:

Silly Putty Gundam Model


> Abstract:

The purpose of this project is to create a model Gundam, traditionally created with plastics and metals, using the unconventional but easily moldable material, Silly Putty.


> Background:

Gundam models, sometimes referred to as Gunpla (Gundam plastic models) are plastic/metal modelling kits of mecha in the fictional Mobile Suit Gundam universe, expanded through various animes and mangas since 1979. Popularized in Japanese hobby shops as collectables, the market expanded to North America where official and replica/immitation models can often be found in Asian toy stores.

Gunpla traditionally required numerous hands-on modeling to build. Earlier models once included usage of plastic cement, installng of springs and metal screws, and manual painting of surfaces. At one point, fans would create their own models out of paper folding, cardboard, wood and sometimes even steel sheets. More modern models, however, have lost their dependency on the artistic skill of the model builder and instead relies on ease of snap-on-plastic parts and fancy, colourful instruction manuals.

This project aims to create a custom Gundam model using the unconventional building material, Silly Putty, a specialized polymer with viscoelastic properties. The challenge in this project would be the modelling of each part without significant deformation while still displaying necessary details (done through freezing of the Silly Putty and careful carving with a scalpel/etc.). After modelling has been completed, the model will need to be hand-painted and card-board armour parts added on for support if necessary. The final model will need to be kept in a freezer to maintain its shape.


> Specific Aims:

- mold Gundam model using Silly Putty
- paint it and add on decoratives
- maintain a ridgid structure through freezing


> Funding Justification:

- Mobile Suit Gundam 00 Exia Perfect Grade model - $100
- Acryllic paint and brush collection - $70
- Cardboard pieces - $30
- 100 pounds of Q2-3233 Bouncing Putty - $800

Total funding sought: $1000


> Timeline:

End of December
- purchasing of materials

January-March
- modelling

April-May
- painting and touch-ups


> References:
http://bulkputty.org/ordering/white.html
http://www.google.com/products?q=gundam%20exia%20perfect%20grade