Beginner’s Guide to 3D Metal Models: Metal Earth vs. Piececool.

If you are bored of gluing wood together, it might be time to try 3D Metal Models.

Unlike wooden book nooks or dollhouses, these kits require zero glue. They are made from laser-cut steel sheets. You snip out the pieces, bend the tabs, and lock them together to create incredibly detailed sculptures of robots, ships, and architecture.

The two biggest giants in this niche are Metal Earth (USA) and Piececool (China). But which one is better for a beginner? And what tools do you actually need to finish one without drawing blood?

The Difference: Metal Earth vs. Piececool.

1. Metal Earth (Fascinations)

This is the brand you see in bookstores and museums. They are famous for their licensed models: Star Wars, Harry Potter, and Batman.

• The Vibe: Tiny, precise, and silver. Most models are unpainted steel.
• The Challenge: Because they are small, the tabs are microscopic. You need steady hands.
• Where to Start: If you are looking for a specific starter kit, check out our detailed Metal Earth Millennium Falcon Review [.

2. Piececool

Piececool models are often larger, heavier, and—most importantly—colorful. They use brass sheets dyed in gold, red, and blue.

• The Vibe: Elaborate Chinese armor, dragons, and wedding carriages.
• The Challenge: They have more pieces (sometimes 300+), but the pieces are larger and easier to handle than Metal Earth.

The Golden Rule: No Glue, Just Tabs.

Beginners are often confused by how these hold together.

• Fold Tabs: You insert a tab into a slot and fold it down 90 degrees. This creates a tight seam.
• Twist Tabs: You insert a tab and twist it 90 degrees. This locks the piece in place but leaves it a bit loose (good for moving parts).

Mandatory Tools (Do Not Use Fingers).

You cannot build these with your bare hands. You will cut your fingers, and you will bend the delicate sheets.

1. Flush Cutters: You must snip the pieces out of the metal frame. If you twist them, the metal will warp.
2. Needle Nose Pliers: Essential for reaching into tight spaces to bend tabs.
3. Tweezers: For the microscopic parts that pliers are too big for.

Note: We cover the specific brands to buy in our upcoming Essential Tools for Metal Models guide.

Which one should you buy first?

• Go with Metal Earth if: You want a cheap ($10-$15), quick project that fits on a small desk.
• Go with Piececool if: You want a colorful centerpiece that looks like expensive jewelry and don't mind spending $30+.

➡️ Shop Metal Earth on Amazon

➡️ Shop Piececool on Amazon