Budget Wing Zero Gundam

Instructables is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and I wanted to make something really special to mark the occasion. Using only paper and my imagination, I constructed the Wing Zero Gundam, one of my all-time favorite mecha, rather than purchasing a model kit.

Papercraft is not only budget-friendly but also fun and creative—you get to cut, fold, and assemble each part, watching your Gundam slowly come to life. By the end, you’ll have a strong and detailed paper model you can proudly display.

1. For papercraft models, ivory sheets (160–220 gsm) are ideal because they are smooth and sturdy.
2. Printer to print the Wing Zero templates (or sketch by hand, but don't do that; it's difficult).
3. Craft knife or scissors for accurate cutting.
4. A ruler is used for straight edges and folds.
5. Cutting mats are optional, but they come in quite handy when using a knife.
6. Craft or white glue dries clear and strong.
7. Use tweezers or clips to hold small parts while they dry.
8. (Optional) Metallic pens, coloured pencils, or markers for highlights and details.

1. Fold and glue the faceplate, helmet, and V-fin (antenna).
2. Attach them carefully—this is a small and delicate section.

Start with the torso, as it’s the core of the Gundam.

1. Glue the chest and back panels together.
2. Add side panels and a bottom panel.
3. Let it dry completely before moving on.

1. Build the waist unit by folding and gluing the front, back, and side panels.
2. Add the skirt armor pieces (front, side, and back skirts).
3. Attach the waist to the bottom of the torso.
4. Let it dry fully before adding the legs.

1. Attach the lower body (waist unit) to the torso.
2. Make sure the joint is straight so the Gundam stands balanced.
3. Press gently until the glue sets.
4. Let it dry fully before adding the legs.

1. Fold and glue the palm and finger parts to shape each hand.
2. Assemble left and right hands separately.
3. Attach the completed hands to the ends of the arms.
4. Let them dry firmly before posing.

1. Fold and glue the thigh, knee, shin, and foot pieces for each leg.
2. Assemble left and right legs separately.
3. Attach both legs to the lower body (waist unit).
4. Let the Gundam stand upright and dry completely.

1. Build the backpack unit and fold/glue the wing pieces.
2. Attach the wings securely to the backpack.
3. Glue the backpack onto the back of the torso.
4. Let it dry completely so the wings don’t sag.

1. Cut out the shield parts from the ivory sheet.
2. Fold and glue to form the shield’s main body.
3. Add any extra detail layers (center crest or edges) for a 3D look.
4. Attach the shield to the Gundam’s arm or keep it as a separate accessory.

1. Cut out the rifle parts from the ivory sheet.
2. Fold and glue each half of the rifle body.
3. Attach the barrel and handle pieces firmly.
4. Repeat to build the second rifle, then combine them to form the Twin Buster Rifle.
5. Fix the rifles to the Gundam’s hands or display them separately.

1. Attach the arms with hands to the torso.
2. Fix the legs to the lower body and make sure the Gundam can stand.
3. Add the backpack and wings securely to the back.
4. Place the shield on one arm.
5. Equip the Twin Buster Rifle in the hands.
6. Check all joints, press gently to secure, and let the whole model dry.

The result of this project, which takes time and accuracy, is a detailed Gundam that you can proudly display on your desk or shelf. The best part? Its almost entirely paper construction shows that you can create amazing things without expensive kits or tools.

You can add colors and battle damage, or scale your Gundam up on larger sheets, to make it more dramatic. If this build was enjoyable, try making other Gundams or mecha in papercraft.

Folks, see you at the next one.