MS General Sloth Model Kit Assembly and Painting Tips
By Fuwa Fuwa Land-Fuwa Fuwa Land | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: How-to Guides
Learn how to assemble and paint the MS General Sloth model kit. Step-by-step tips for a clean build and a smooth finish on this bishoujo Plamo figure.
Quick Answer
Assemble the MS General Sloth kit carefully with basic tools, then prime and paint in thin layers for a clean bishoujo finish.
Before You Start: Kit and Tools
The MS General Sloth is a Chinese original Plamo kit with a bishoujo-inspired design. It comes as a set of three, giving you extra parts or display options. The plastic is typical of resin kits: it can be brittle, so handle sprue cuts with care.
You will need side cutters, a hobby knife, sanding sticks (400-1000 grit), plastic cement or super glue, primer, and acrylic or lacquer paints. A pin vise helps if you need to enlarge peg holes for a snug fit.
Painting Order: Why It Matters
Paint before final assembly to avoid covering hard-to-reach areas. The Sloth's bishoujo design has many small details (hair, accessories) that are easier to paint separately. Mask joints and pegs to keep them paint-free so parts fit without scraping.
Assembly and Painting Steps
- Clean the Parts: Cut each piece from the sprue with side cutters, leaving a small nub. Sand the nub flush with 400-grit sandpaper, then smooth with 600- and 1000-grit. Common mistake: cutting too close and gouging the plastic. Test fit pieces before gluing to check for warping or tight joints.
- Dry-Fit and Adjust: Assemble the major sections (torso, arms, head) without glue. Check that pegs fit into holes. If a joint is too tight, widen the hole slightly with a pin vise or sand the peg. Common mistake: forcing a tight joint can crack the plastic. Mark any gaps or alignment issues with a pencil so you can fix them before gluing.
- Prime the Parts: Wash parts in warm soapy water to remove mold release, then let them dry. Spray or brush on a thin coat of primer (gray or white). Let it cure fully (24 hours for most primers). Common mistake: applying thick primer that hides surface detail. Check for missed spots under bright light before moving to paint.
- Paint in Thin Layers: Use acrylic or lacquer paint thinned to a milk-like consistency. Apply 2-3 thin coats, letting each dry for 15-30 minutes. For bishoujo faces, use a fine brush or mask for clean eye lines. Common mistake: painting too thickly, which obscures the sculpt. Seal each color with a clear gloss or matte topcoat before masking adjacent areas.
- Final Assembly and Touch-Ups: Glue painted parts together using plastic cement or super glue. Apply glue sparingly to avoid seepage. After the glue sets, touch up any visible seams with matching paint. Common mistake: using too much glue that melts the paint around the joint. Display the kit away from direct sunlight to prevent paint fading over time.
Product Facts
- MS General Sloth: This MS General Sloth model kit is a Plamo bishoujo figure from a Chinese original line, available in a Set of 3 option with stock scheduled for September 26. The Set of 3 gives you spare parts or alternative display poses, which is useful if you make a mistake during painting or want to experiment with color schemes.
MS General Sloth
