How to sell model kits, Warhammer and craft supplies

Hobbies come and go, and they leave a lot of kit behind. The "pile of shame" of unbuilt kits, a model railway from childhood, a sewing machine bought for a project that never happened. Hobby gear is often bought with real care and money, and there are passionate buyers looking for it.

Hobby gear that sells well

• Plastic model kits — Airfix, Tamiya, Revell, Gundam/Gunpla and others, especially unbuilt and complete.
• Warhammer and miniatures — Games Workshop armies, boxed sets, paints and terrain.
• Model railways — Hornby, Bachmann, Graham Farish locomotives, rolling stock and controllers.
• Die-cast models — Corgi, Dinky, Matchbox and other collectible models.
• RC models — cars, boats and planes (electric only — no fuel).
• Sewing machines and overlockers — Brother, Janome, Singer and Bernina, within 30kg.
• Cricut and craft cutting machines.
• Knitting machines, embroidery machines and quality craft tools.
• Art supplies — quality brush sets, unused paint sets and easels within size limits.

What affects the value

• Unbuilt vs built. For model kits, unbuilt and complete is usually best. For miniatures, well-painted figures can be valuable, while poorly painted ones may be worth less than unbuilt.
• Completeness. Check sprues and parts against the instructions.
• Boxes. For die-cast and model railways, original boxes in good condition add significant value.
• Working order. Locomotives should run smoothly; sewing machines should stitch properly.

Getting it ready

1. Sort by type, and identify brands and model numbers.
2. Test anything with a motor.
3. Clean dust off models and boxes carefully.
4. Note any missing parts.

Paints and liquids

Some hobby paints, glues and thinners are flammable or hazardous and can't be posted. Water-based acrylic paints are usually fine; solvent-based paints, enamel thinners and aerosol sprays are not. If in doubt, leave them out.

Selling

Hobby forums and marketplaces are active, but listing a large collection takes time. With SendForCash, describe what you have and get an instant cash offer. Accept and we email a free postage label. We pay the same day we inspect.

Packing

• Bag small parts and sprues.
• Built models need individual wrapping and protection for delicate parts.
• Locomotives go back in their boxes, inside a larger box with padding.
• Sewing machines: lower the presser foot, remove the needle, secure the foot pedal and cable, and box with padding all round.

Model railways in more detail

Model railways are one of the most common hobby collections found in lofts, and they're worth sorting carefully.

• Gauge: OO gauge is the most common in the UK, followed by N gauge. Note which you have — it's usually printed on the box.
• Locomotives: these are usually the most valuable part. Note the manufacturer, model and running number. Test each loco on a short length of track: does it run smoothly in both directions, without stuttering?
• Digital (DCC) or analogue: DCC-fitted locos and controllers can add value. Mention if a loco is DCC-ready or has a chip fitted.
• Rolling stock: coaches and wagons, especially in original boxes.
• Track, scenery and buildings: individually low value but useful as part of a larger collection.
• Controllers and power supplies: older transformers should be checked for frayed cables. Any controller with damaged cables isn't safe and isn't one we can accept.

Boxed items in good condition are more desirable. Keep each loco in its own box where you can.

Die-cast collections

Die-cast collectors care a great deal about condition and boxes:

• Check for paint chips, missing parts (mirrors, aerials) and broken axles.
• Boxes with clean, crisp card and intact cellophane windows add value.
• Note manufacturer and model number from the base or box.
• Don't attempt restoration or repainting — it often reduces value.

Sewing and craft machines

Sewing machines

1. Clean out lint from under the needle plate and around the bobbin case with a small brush.
2. Fit a new needle and thread it, then sew a test seam on scrap fabric using straight and zigzag stitches.
3. Check the foot pedal and power cable for damage.
4. Include the bobbins, feet, manual and cover.

Cricut and cutting machines

• Remove the machine from your account if required and reset it.
• Include mats, blades and tools you're parting with.
• Check it cuts cleanly with a test cut.

Embroidery and knitting machines

These are more specialist. Include all accessories and manuals, and describe the model accurately.

Painted miniatures: be realistic

If you've painted miniatures, the paint job affects their value. Well-painted figures can be appealing to collectors, while basic or rushed paint jobs may actually make figures less valuable than unbuilt ones, because buyers will want to strip them. Describe them honestly — painted, primed, built or on the sprue. Our new guide to selling Warhammer goes into more detail.

Unfinished projects

There's no shame in a pile of unfinished kits. Unbuilt kits still sealed in shrink wrap or with sprues still in their bags are often the easiest to sell. If you've started a kit, note which parts are assembled and whether everything is present.

Clearing a hobby collection for someone else

Hobby collections often come up when clearing a relative's home. If that's your situation, our guide to clearing a loved one's home may help. Take your time — there's no rush to decide.

Related guides

See also selling LEGO, selling board games and selling retro games.

FAQ

Do you buy part-built model kits?

Possibly — describe how far along it is and whether all parts are present.

Can I sell aerosol paints?

No. Aerosols are hazardous to post.

Do you buy old Hornby train sets?

Yes, if they work. Boxed sets are especially welcome.

What about wool and fabric stashes?

Fabric and yarn on their own are rarely worth enough to meet our £15 minimum, unless it's a large collection of quality materials. Charity shops and craft groups are often glad of them.