Paper Models

The World of Paper Models

• Paper models are made from sheets of paper, paperboard, card stock, or foam, and include origami, card modeling, and papercraft.
• The sections are usually pre-painted, so there is no need to paint the model after completion, but some enthusiasts may enhance the model by painting and detailing.
• The first paper models appeared in Europe in the 17th century, and the earliest commercial models were appearing in French toy catalogs in 1800.
• The popularity of card modeling boomed during World War II when the paper was one of the few items whose use and production was not heavily regulated.
• The Robert Freidus Collection, held at the V&A Museum of Childhood, has over 14,000 card models exclusively in the category of Architectural Paper Models.
• Inexpensive kits are available from dedicated publishers, mostly based in Eastern Europe, with some catalogs dating back to 1950.
• Experienced hobbyists often scratchbuild models, either by first hand drawing or using software such as Adobe Illustrator and Inkscape.
• CAD and CG software, such as Rhino 3D, 3DS Max, Blender, and specialist software like Pepakura Designer from Tama Software, may be employed to convert 3D computer models into two-dimensional printable templates for assembly.
• The use of 3D models greatly assists in the construction of paper models, with video game models being the most prevalent source.
• Vehicles of all forms, architecture models, and video game designs are frequent subjects of paper models.
• Various models are used in tabletop gaming, primarily wargaming.
• Paper models can be downloaded and printed on inexpensive inkjet printers, and the Internet has become a popular means of exchanging them.