Miniature kits: a fun way to create tiny worlds or a shortcut that takes the challenge out of the craft? This question has sparked heated debates online on social media platforms, so let’s see where our community stands and I have summarized their thoughts:
==> my "hacked" miniature kit by Robotime/Rolife
Quick Survey: Do You Think Using DIY Kits is Cheating?
Based on a recent online discussion, here's how miniature enthusiasts feel about kits: (no surprise to me this result, to be frank haha)
Opinion |
Percentage |
|---|---|
Kits are NOT cheating |
87.6% |
Kits MIGHT be cheating |
2.9% |
Neutral/Other Opinions |
9.5% |
Seems like most people are firmly on the side that kits are just as valid as scratch-built miniatures. But let’s dive deeper into the discussion...
The Case Against Kits: Is There Any Merit to Calling It 'Cheating'?
Some crafters argue that building from scratch is the only way to do miniatures. They believe that relying on a kit means skipping the most creative and technically challenging parts of the hobby.
A few comments reflected this viewpoint:
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“If you're going around saying you designed and built your kit miniatures, that’s a bit cheaty and uncool.”
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“I prefer making things myself because I want the challenge and uniqueness.”
However, these opinions were in the extreme minority. So what’s the other side of the argument?
==> Cathy's Flowerhouse by Robotime/Rolife
Why Kits Are NOT Cheating (According to the Majority)
Most people feel that using kits is a valid and creative approach to miniatures—whether as a learning tool or a form of self-expression. Here’s why:
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Kits require skill. You still need patience, precision, and artistic touch to assemble and paint them. (not all of them need painting though)
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They’re a gateway into the hobby. Many skilled miniaturists started with kits before moving on to scratch-building.
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Customization makes them unique. Many hobbyists modify kits to fit their personal style (it's called kitbashing), making the final result just as creative as a scratch-built piece.
A few strong statements from the discussion:
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“If you mix pancakes from a box, you still cooked pancakes. If you use a knitting pattern, you still made a scarf. Why should kits be any different?”
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“Some people look down on kits, but let’s be real—most of them wouldn’t even know how to put one together properly.”
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“You made something with your own hands. That’s the whole point.”
The Real Issue: When Others Don’t Respect Your Hobby
For many, the biggest frustration wasn’t about kits vs. scratch-built but rather the lack of respect from others—friends, family, or even fellow crafters.
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“I stopped sharing my miniatures with my family because they just roll their eyes.”
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“I made a whole kit for a friend as a gift, and she never even picked it up.”
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“People tell me to sell my dollhouse instead of just letting me enjoy it as a hobby.”
Some found comfort in online communities where fellow miniaturists actually appreciate their work. So if your family doesn’t get it—don’t let it bring you down! There are plenty of people out there who do.
==> I slightly modified Cutebees' Chocolatier DIY kit
So, What Do YOU Think?
Do you feel there’s a divide between scratch-builders and kit-builders? Have you ever faced judgment for using kits? Or do you think this whole argument is pointless because miniatures are supposed to be fun?
Let’s hear your thoughts below!
Happy crafting!
Lizzy
