When it comes to the world of scale models, Gundam kits, and intricate dioramas, the difference between a good build and an extraordinary one often lies in the details. That’s where HiQ Parts steps in — a Japanese company specializing in high-quality aftermarket parts, decals, tools, and accessories for hobbyists. Founded with a commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, they’ve earned a reputation as a go-to source for anyone serious about upping their modeling game. Whether you're customizing Gunpla, working on military dioramas, or perfecting a scale vehicle, HiQ Parts has a solution to elevate your build.
Here are some of their top selling products on LSG:
Our #1 seller from HiQ, the original, Decal Squeegee. It is a small, precision tool designed to help hobbyists apply waterslide decals with professional-level smoothness. This simple yet effective tool ensures your decals adhere perfectly to your model without bubbles, wrinkles, or uneven edges.
What the squeegee does:
- Removes water from underneath the decal
- Wiping off moisture from the surface of the decal
- Pressing down decals evenly to ensure proper adhesion
- Wiping off unnecessary glue after the decal has dried
Features of the HiQ Decal Squeegee
1. Hydrophilic Resin Sponge: The sponge is made of a soft, hydrophilic resin that absorbs water effectively. This soft material makes it easy to apply even pressure and ensures gentle handling of decals, especially on delicate surfaces.
2. Large surface contact: The sponge contacts the decal with a larger "surface" rather than a "point," e.g. a Q-tip, allowing strong, even pressure to be applied without damaging the decal.
3. Excellent Conformability: The squeegee conforms beautifully to curved surfaces, making it indispensable when applying large decals to rounded areas or irregular shapes.
4. Aluminum Shaft: The shaft is made from high-quality aluminum, machined on a lathe for precision. Its ergonomic design makes it easy to rotate and handle, providing full control during application.
The Circular Masking Sheet is a pre-cut adhesive masking sheet designed specifically for creating perfectly circular masks on your model kits. It’s ideal for painting details like thruster edges, mechanical parts, wheels, or any circular surface requiring crisp, clean lines.
How to use it?
1) Thruster Rims: Achieve perfectly painted edges on thrusters for Gunpla or other mecha kits.
2) Cockpit Windows: Ideal for masking rounded sections like aircraft cockpits or other curved surfaces.
3) Wheels and Tires: Paint crisp boundaries on vehicle models with ease.
4) Custom Patterns: Stack or layer the circles to create unique designs, such as concentric rings or target-like markings.
HiQ Parts Water Transfer Decal Sheets are high-quality waterslide decals designed for hobbyists who demand precision and durability. These sheets come in a wide range of designs, from intricate mechanical markings to logos, symbols, and stenciled patterns. They are essential for adding fine details to your models with minimal effort.
Diverse decal designs
- TR Flat Type Face Alphabet decals
- Racing and Mecha Sponsor Decals
The HiQ Parts Line Scriber is a specialized tool designed for modellers seeking to add precise panel lines and intricate details to their plastic models. Crafted with high-carbon steel blades, this tool offers smooth cutting performance and versatility in all scribing applications.
Features of this scriber
- High-Carbon Steel Blade: The scribing tool features a blade made from high-carbon steel, providing durability and a sharp edge for clean scribing. The unique blade design minimizes chattering, allowing for smooth and controlled scribing motions.
- Ergonomic Grip: The tool is equipped with a slender aluminum grip, designed to be held like a pencil. This design enables precise control and comfortable handling, facilitating detailed scribing work.
- Versatile Scribing: The line scriber is capable of various scribing techniques, including pulling, side-to-side scribing and scraping motions, making it suitable for different detailing needs.
Available Sizes: Each size is color-coded for easy identification and comes with a dedicated grip, eliminating the need for blade swapping.
- 0.08mm:Ideal for ultra-fine lines and delicate details.
- 0.15mm: Suitable for standard panel lines on smaller scale models.
- 0.25mm: Great for more pronounced lines on larger models.
- 0.40mm: Best for bold lines and significant detailing work.
Steel Balls for Precision Detailing
HiQ Parts is well-known for its diverse lineup of detailing tools, and their Steel Balls are no exception. These small, high-quality metallic spheres are a game-changer for adding intricate details to your builds.
These are small metallic spheres designed for use in scale models, especially for enhancing mechanical designs like thrusters, joints, or weapon barrels. They’re available in various diameters to fit a wide range of customization needs.
How they are used
- Drill or Create a Socket: Using a pin vise or precision drill, make a small hole or recess in the area where you want to place the steel ball. Ensure the socket matches the diameter of the ball for a snug fit.
- Apply Adhesive: Add a tiny drop of strong adhesive, like cyanoacrylate (super glue), into the prepared socket.
- Place the Steel Ball: Use tweezers to carefully position the steel ball into the socket. Adjust as needed before the adhesive sets.
- Enhance with Paint: Depending on your desired finish, you can leave the steel balls in their natural metallic color for a sleek look or paint them to match your build.
Use cases
- Thrusters and Exhaust Ports: Add depth and realism by placing steel balls inside the openings of thrusters or exhaust vents.
- Mechanical Joints: Enhance the appearance of joints or moving parts by using steel balls as pivot points.
- Weapon Detailing: Use them for gun barrels, missile tips, or other intricate weapon features.
- Custom Paneling: Incorporate steel balls into your panel designs for a unique, high-tech aesthetic.
And that concludes our first look at some of HiQ Part's unique lineup. Stay tuned for more in the future!