Animaga plamo workshop
Discover the world of creativity and craftsmanship at the Animaga Plamo Workshop 2026—a dedicated space where precision meets imagination and the joy of plastic modeling is celebrated! Explore the culture of ‘Plamo,’ the Japanese term for the art of building plastic models, ranging from detailed vehicles and military replicas to iconic anime-inspired figures.
Learn about the history of Plamo, which began in 1961 in Shizuoka, Japan—the home of the country’s first plastic model produced by Aoshima. Today, Shizuoka remains the global center for this hobby, hosting famous industry names like Tamiya and Bandai, which continue to drive the evolution of modeling craftsmanship. Explore the legacy of ‘Gunpla,’ the Gundam-themed plastic models that have been a staple of Japanese culture since 1980. These kits, based on the famous Gundam universe, provide an ideal mix of challenge and ease, featuring snap-fit designs and pre-colored parts that make them accessible to hobbyists of every skill level.
At the Animaga Melbourne Plamo Workshop, attendees of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to discover their inner builder. Whether you are a newcomer interested in starting your first kit or an experienced hobbyist looking to perfect your skills, our area offers a welcoming environment for everyone. Gain practical experience with entry-level kits or work on complex builds while receiving guidance from expert modelers sharing their best tips and techniques.
The workshop serves as a creative center where essential tools like nippers are provided, though builders are always welcome to bring their own favorite equipment and projects. View impressive displays of painted and customized models, discuss your work with other fans, and enjoy the community atmosphere that makes the Plamo hobby so unique.
Keep an eye out for more information regarding specific activities for the Animaga Melbourne Plamo Workshop in 2026. This is a great chance to connect with fellow builders and celebrate the art of plastic modeling in an inspiring setting at the MCEC!
A celebration of craftsmanship, creativity, and mecha mastery.
Are you prepared to showcase your model-building skills? Whether you are a first-time builder or a seasoned professional, the Melbourne Gunpla & Plamo Taikai invites you to enter one of the event’s most anticipated scale model competitions at the MCEC.
This is your opportunity to exhibit your hard work and display your skills alongside builders of all ages and levels. The competition embraces all styles—from clean, out-of-box builds to fully painted dioramas and custom scratch builds. With categories designed for young builders, newcomers, and experienced veterans, everyone has a place in the showcase.
🏆 Categories
Under 18: For builders aged 17 and under.
Unpainted: For snap-fit and unpainted builds.
Painted: For customized, painted, and finished kits.
Master Category: For advanced builders, scratch-builds, and detailed dioramas.
📋 Entry Rules & Guidelines
Eligibility: Open to weekend pass holders, guests, volunteers, and committee members (unless prior arrangements have been made with organizers).
Submission Window: Model kits must be submitted before Saturday at 12:00 PM (Noon) at the designated Plamo area.
Collection: All entries must be collected on Sunday by the end of event hours.
Eligible Subject Matter: Any plastic scale model kit, 3D print, or sculpture featured in an anime or anime-style media is eligible. This rule is loosely enforced to encourage artistic freedom and creativity!
Accepted Build Types: Out-of-box, modified, painted, snap-built, scratch-built kits, and full dioramas are all welcome.
Packaging Storage: Transport boxes and packaging may be stored safely on-site during the event weekend.
🧠 Judging Criteria
Models will be judged out of 9 total points across three core areas:
Construction: Assembly quality, seam line removal, and clean nub management.
Painting & Finish: Paint application, decal work, weathering, and topcoat finish.
Creativity & Originality: Concept, posing, modifications, and overall presentation.
💬 Feedback Available: Constructive feedback from the judges is available upon request to highlight your strengths and point out areas for improvement.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Handling: Only official judges will handle models if necessary, exercising the utmost care. However, event management accepts no legal liability or responsibility for damage.
Unclaimed Models: Any models left unclaimed or abandoned at the conclusion of the event will be transferred to Salt Mine Hobby Shop and held for up to 12 months for pickup.
- Where: Animaga Plamo Area
- All-Day Event
Sponsor by
Curious about assembling your very first plastic model, or just looking to unwind with a fun build during your Animaga weekend? Make your way to the Plamo Area and drop into one of our Free Model Kit Workshops, proudly brought to you by Hobbyco and Rhypla Builds!
Whether you’ve never touched a model runner in your life or you’re a seasoned builder, everyone is welcome — and participation is 100% free.
Every workshop slot gives you a dedicated space to sit down, snap parts together, and experience the pure fun of bringing a model to life. Our welcoming crew of volunteers will be on hand the entire time to share tips, guide you through the process, and answer any questions.
Thanks to the generous support of our sponsors, we have three fantastic model options available:
RX-78-2 Gundam: The timeless granddaddy of all Mobile Suits! This entry-grade classic features easy snap-fit assembly with no glue or tools required, making it the perfect iconic build for anime fans and first-timers alike.
30MF Rookie Soldier (Armor Exchange Ver.): Ideal for participants looking for a bit more customization and detail, offering a rewarding challenge for confident builders.
Bandai Dinosaur Kit: Designed specifically for younger fans, beginners, or anyone wanting a quick, simple, and satisfying build.
Our team will assess each session on the spot to match participants with the ideal model kit for their age and experience level — whether you’re easing into the hobby or eager to tackle something a little more complex.
Workshops run hourly across both days, giving you plenty of opportunities to jump in. Each session is capped at 10 to 12 kits, featuring a dynamic mix of roughly 5 Rookie Soldier kits and 7 Dinosaur kits depending on participant demand. Sessions with younger builders or complete novices will feature more dinosaur kits, while older or more experienced fans can step up to the Rookie Soldier.
No prior experience or tools needed — we provide everything on site! Simply visit the Plamo Area, register for a session time, take your seat, and let your creativity flow.
Come build something awesome with us!
- Where: Animaga Plamo Area
- All-Day Event
Brought to you by Rhypla Builds & Hobbyco
