Start's Friday 20th March 2026

Streamed live from around the on YouTube from three different timezones.

About the 48 in 48 Challenge

Welcome to the 48 in 48 Challenge—a dynamic and inclusive group build event that combines the joy of scale modeling with the mission to support mental health and well-being through creativity. This annual challenge invites participants to build a 1/48 scale model kit within 48 hours, all in support of Models for Heroes, a UK-based charity providing scale model kits and creative outlets to improve the mental health of veterans, active service members, and first responders.The Origin of 48 in 48
This event started as a birthday challenge and has since evolved into a cherished tradition in the scale modeling community. With the spirit of friendly competition and the heart of a fundraiser, the 48 in 48 Challenge encourages modelers of all skill levels to join forces for a greater purpose. The initiative reflects the passion, creativity, and resilience of the modeling community, embodying the therapeutic benefits of this beloved hobby.Why Models for Heroes?
Models for Heroes uses scale modeling to provide a creative outlet for those struggling with PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health challenges. As a volunteer and advocate for this charity, our organizer has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of the hobby and its ability to foster focus, camaraderie, and personal achievement. Every donation helps provide model kits, tools, and guidance to those who need them most, making your support truly impactful.What to Expect
The 48 in 48 Challenge is a fully immersive experience:Live Streams and Community Engagement: Watch builders from around the world tackle their kits live on YouTube, share their progress, and cheer each other on.
Special Guests and Partners: Industry podcasters, professional modelers, and friends of Models for Heroes join in to elevate the event with tips, stories, and camaraderie.
Fundraising Milestones: Throughout the event, donations unlock fun surprises, challenges, and community shout-outs, keeping the energy high and the purpose clear.
Get Involved
Whether you're a seasoned builder or new to the hobby, there’s a place for you in the 48 in 48 Challenge:Participate: Build your own 1/48 scale model kit and share your progress with the community.
Donate: Every contribution helps Models for Heroes continue their vital work.
Spread the Word: Share the event on social media to bring more awareness to the cause.
Together, we’re proving that creativity, connection, and compassion can make a tangible difference. Let’s build for a brighter tomorrow—one model at a time.Learn more about the event, explore ways to get involved, and check out the live streams right here on our site. Your support ensures that the incredible work of Models for Heroes can continue to change lives.

Hosts

Australiaisa

austaliaisa

UK & Europe

uk

USA & Canada

usa

Our Hosts are supported by a team of helpers and adminators with out which we really couldn't do this for you

TimeTable

Australiaisa

UK & Europe

USA & Canada

Our timetable covers the whole event but has been broken down into time zones which we hope will reduce confusion.

Our 2025 Auction Supporters

Below is a link to every supporter who has contributed to our Auction and without there support we would not be able to bring such an amazing event.
They are listed in alphabetical order

"All the above company logos may contain affiliate links to take you to their sites where if you make any purchases we may receive a donation at no extra cost to you."

"All the above company logos have assisted the team to deliver all the goodies for you."

The Heart of Socialising

Friends of Models for Heroes

Live Discord

Hang out with other model makers during the event

Model Officers Mess

Share your work

Share your work in a album for everyone to see

Some ways to make the event just that little more social is only a click away.

2025 Participants Album

A massive thank you to everyone who took part this year.

Donate Now

Just Giving

Paypal

Your donation makes a difference! Every contribution helps Models for Heroes continue its vital work supporting veterans and first responders through the therapeutic benefits of model making.Whether it’s £1 or £100, your support means the world to us and to those we serve. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey.Together, we can build more than just models—we can build hope and resilience.

Auction

We have an amazing opportunity for you to bid for some amazing items, some of which maybe one offs or very hard to get hold of.
Please read the Auction rules before bidding.

Australasia

UK & Europe

USA & Canada

Auction Rules

  • Only place a bid if you are located within the auction's designated region.

  • Each lot will be open for bidding for 3 minutes.

  • The beginning and end of each bidding period will be clearly marked in the chat with "Start" and "Stop."

  • The highest bid visible to us at the close of the auction will be considered final.

  • Please note that Postage & Packing (P&P) costs are not included in your bid amount.

  • Familiarize yourself with all the rules before participating in the auction.

Offical Merchandise

48 Hours, One Model, Endless Inspiration!

T-Shirt

Bucket Hat

Apron

Mug

Hoodie

Pin Badge

Light Sweater

Cap

If there is something you want thats not here, email us - [email protected]

General Rules & Guidance

Eligibility:
The event is open to all model makers regardless of skill level.Participants must register before the event starts.Kit Requirements:
Models kit can be any scale.
Any subject matter is acceptable (aircraft, vehicles, figures, etc.).The kit must be unstarted before the event begins. However, participants may open boxes and examine parts.2025 Kit of choice
1/48 Airfix Supermarine Spitfire
1/48 Tamiya Sherman TankTimeframe:
The event will run for exactly 48 hours.
Participants may start building once the event begins (as per the official time announced).Build Process:
All work must be completed within the 48-hour window, including assembly, painting, and finishing touches.Breaks, sleep, and other personal activities are encouraged but will count within the 48-hour period.Streaming:
Builders are encouraged to live stream or record their progress and share updates regularly on social media or designated platforms.Use the event hashtag (#48in48) for visibility and engagement.Supportive Environment:
This is a fun and inclusive event designed to promote creativity and camaraderie. Negative or unsportsmanlike behaviour will not be tolerated.Completion Submission:
Builders must share at least one photo of their completed model before the event ends.
Helpful Tips for SuccessPreparation:
Choose a kit you’re comfortable building within the time limit.
Have all your tools, paints, and accessories ready before the event.Pacing:
Plan your time wisely. Prioritize assembly early to leave ample time for painting and weathering.Engagement:
Share your progress with the community to stay motivated and connected.Enjoy the Process:
The aim is to challenge yourself and have fun while supporting a great cause!Disclaimer:
Participants are responsible for their own safety and workspace. The event organizers are not liable for any personal injuries, property damage, or issues arising during participation.

Your Australasia Hosts

Your UK & European Hosts

Your USA & Canada Hosts

Australasia Auction Items

  • Lot 1

  • Metro hobbies

  • Consumable Pack:

  • Vallejo Tool Set

  • Icky Sticky Sanding Twigs

  • Icky Sticky Extra Thin Cement

  • Lot 2

  • Hobbies Austrlia

  • K9A1 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer Academy 1/35

  • Lot 3

  • Metro Hobbies

  • 1/35 WWII British Army 30cwt 4x2 G.S. Truck Airfix

  • Lot 4

  • Hobbies Australia

  • USN PV-1 Patrol Bomber Academy 1/72

  • Lot 5

  • Metro Hobbies

  • 1/24 A9X Torana Sealed Body Opening Bonnet with Engine Plastic Model Kit

  • Lot 6

  • Hobbies Australia

  • Boeing P-8A Poseidon Academy 1/144

  • Lot 7

  • Metro Hobbies

  • 1/48 Fairey Fulmar Mk.I Trumpeter

  • Lot 8

  • SMS

  • SMS Bundle

  • Includes 16 Paints,

  • HyperChrome Pens,

  • A Ceramic Scraper,

  • Sanding sticks,

  • Painting Clips,

  • Micro Detailing Brushes and dry brushes.

  • Lot 9

  • Micro Machines Podcast Hobbies & Franklin Hobbies

  • Airfix 1/72 Supermarine Swift FR.5

  • Lot 10

  • On The Bench

  • A guest producer spot A day in the studio with them to record an episode

  • Choose the topic and co-host the show as a special guest.

UK and European Auction Items

  • Lot 1

  • EBMA

  • BiPlane Large Jig (and extension)

  • Lot 2

  • Mason Models

  • 1/32 Lindberg 70562 Laird-Turner Meteor

  • Lot 3

  • Revell

  • 1/72 Tiger II Ausf B

  • 1/72 Junkers JU87 G/D

  • Lot 4

  • Mason Models

  • 1/48 Italeri 2772 Hawker Hunter F.6/FGA.9 Aerobatic Teams

  • Lot 5

  • Airfix

  • 1:72 Westland Sea King HC.4

  • 1:72 BAE Systems Hawk 100 Series

  • Lot 6

  • Rubicon

  • SdKfz 251D 3-in-1 Set 1

  • Pak 38 / Pak 97/38 AT Gun with Crew

  • Lot 7

  • ICM

  • Sd.Kfz.3b with Flak 38, Truppenluftschutzwagen

  • Lot 8

  • Airfix

  • 1:72 de Havilland Vampire T.11/J-28C

  • 1:48 North American P-51D Mustang

  • Lot 9

  • Crafting Well

  • 1/72 Invasion Stripes Single engine

  • Lot 10

  • Mason Models

  • 1/35 Trumpeter 01016 Russian GAZ-66 Light Truck

  • Lot 11

  • Rubicon

  • Allies US6 U3/U4 21⁄2 ton 6x6

  • M4 Sherman Composite /Firefly Hybrid

  • Lot 12

  • Revell

  • 1/35 World of Tanks Leichttrakkor Rheinmetall 1930

  • 1/28 Fokker DR .1

  • Lot 13

  • Eduard

  • 1/48 Bf 109K-4 (82166)

  • 1/48 F4F-4 Wildcat late (84204)

  • 1/48 Spitfire Mk. IXe (8268)

  • Lot 14

  • Crafting Well

  • 1/48 Invasion Stripes Single engine

  • Lot 15

  • Eduard

  • 1/72 Bf 109G-10 WNF/ Diana (70164)

  • 1/72 P-51D Mustang (70173)

  • 1/72 Bf 109F-2 (7474)

  • 1/72 Bf 109G-14 (70161)

  • Lot 16

  • Crafting Well

  • 1/72 Invasion Stripes Single engine

  • Lot 17

  • ICM

  • AH-1G Cobra (early production), US Attack Helicopter

  • Lot 18

  • Revell

  • 1/8 Jaguar E Type

  • Lot 19

  • Revell

  • 1/24 T1 Samba Bus

  • 1/24 Ford GT40 Le Mans 1968 & 1969

  • Lot 20

  • ICM

  • UH-60A Black Hawk, US Military Transport Helicopter &

  • #3067 - Acrylic paints set for Black Hawk US helicopters

  • Lot 21

  • Rubicon

  • Bell UH-1D / UH-1H "Huey"

  • T-55 & T-55A (early production) MBT

  • Chinese Type 63 /YW531C

  • M24 Chaffee

  • M48A3 Patton/M67A2 Zippo

  • Lot 22

  • Airfix

  • 1:72 Gloster Gladiator Mk.I/II

  • 1:48 de Havilland Tiger Moth

  • 1:48 Bristol Bulldog Mk.II

  • Lot 23

  • EBMA

  • Tilted Fuselage Stand - full set

  • Lot 24

  • Models for Heroes

  • Supporters Bundle

  • M4H Mug

  • Cap

  • Decal Sheet

  • Various Vinyl Stickers

  • Badges

  • A patch

  • A ‘Thank You’ card (Signed by Malcolm)

  • Button Badges

  • A wrist band

  • A picker upper with a light

  • Not forgetting the 1:1 scale pen, specially calibrated to you.

  • Lot 25

  • Salisbury Model Centre

  • Revell Speeder Bike™: The Mandalorian 1:12

  • Lot 26

  • Crafting Well

  • 1/35 Invasion Stripes Single engine

  • Lot 27

  • Modellers United1/48 ICM B26b Marauder

  • Lot 28

  • CSM

  • 1/35 3,5cm Gruson Fahrpanzer

  • Lot 29

  • Eduard

  • 1/48 P-51B Malcolm Hood (82176)

  • 1/48 Fw 190A-3 (84205)

  • Lot 30

  • Artis Opus

  • Dry Brush Set

  • Lot 31

  • ModelU

  • Full Body Scan with a 1/48th Scale Figure of the Scan

  • Lot 32

  • Eduard

  • 1/48 Pacific Star P-40-E (11185 )

  • Lot 33

  • Revell

  • 1/87 Express Lococmotive BR 03

  • 1/700 R.M.S Titanic

  • 1/450 Boeing 747-200

  • Lot 34

  • ICM

  • Gasoline Delivery, Model T 1912 Delivery Car

  • Model A Standard Phaeton Soft Top

  • Model T 1912 Light Delivery Car

  • Lot 35

  • Gaahleri

  • Mobious 0.3 airbrush and Airbrush Stand

  • Lot 36

  • _Tiger Hobbies

  • 1/48 Eduard B-17F Bloody Hundred

  • Lot 37

  • Rubicon

  • Bell UH-1D / UH-1H "Huey"

  • T-55 & T-55A (early production) MBT

  • Chinese Type 63 /YW531C

  • M24 Chaffee

  • M48A3 Patton/M67A2 Zippo

  • Lot 38

  • Scale Model Supplies (SMS)

  • SMS Bundle (UK)

  • 16 bottles of SMS Paints (including Limited Edition Black Grape Pearl that was only available at model shows here in Australia)

  • Micro Detailing Brush Set

  • Fine Tipped Brush Set

  • Dry Brush Set

  • Painting Clips

  • Sanding Sticks (Mixed Grits)

  • Ceramic Scraper

  • HyperChrome Markers (0.5 and 3.0mm sizes)

  • Lot 39

  • Sprue Box

  • 12 Month Inspiration Subscription

  • Package includes -

  • 4 x inspiration box

  • Technique E- Books

  • Special Membership merchandise

  • Exclusive discord membership

USA & Canada Auction Items

  • This is the running order so far but maybe added to with yet more exciting items

  • Friday Night PPP Auctions 10 PM EST / 7 PM PST

  • Lot 1

  • Hypersonic Models

  • 1x F-104B/D conversion set

  • Lot 2

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya 1/24 Datsun 240Z Street Custom

  • Lot 3

  • Value Gear Resin

  • Value Gear Resin Grab Bag – 1/48 Scale (All New)

  • TB1 USA WWII Stowage

  • TB2 Commonwealth WWII Stowage

  • TB3 German WWII Stowage

  • TB4 Russian WWII Stowage

  • Lot 4

  • Furball Aero Designs

  • Colors And Markings of P-47s Thunderbolts Part 2. Item number F/D&S-4830

  • Lot 5

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya 1/48 M5A1 Stuart

  • Lot 6

  • Tamiya

  • Value Gear Resin Grab Bag – 1/48 Scale

  • Lot 7

  • Hypersonic Models

  • 1x F-16A Backdate set

  • Lot 8

  • Plastic Posse Podcast

  • PPP Hasegawa 1/48 Sealed A-4M Skyhawk Bonus Edition With Photo Etch Upgrade Parts

  • Lot 9

  • AK Interactive

  • AK Diorama FAQ (Spanish Text)

  • Lot 10

  • AK Interactive

  • AK 35020 1/35 IDF Power Wagon Kit

  • Lot 11

  • High Altitude Hobbies

  • High Altitude Hobbies ICM 1/48 MH-60L

  • Lot 12

  • Furball Aero Designs

  • Colors And Markings of P-47s Thunderbolts Part 3, Item Number F/D&S-4831

  • Lot 13

  • Experience Auction 1

  • PPP will record with winner for an exclusive Podcast with 2 Hosts of Winners Choice – Starting Bid $100.00

  • Lot 14

  • Hypersonic Models

  • 1x FJ-2/3 Nose Gear Strut (extended)

  • Saturday Night PPP Auctions  8 PM EST / 5 PM PST

  • Lot 1

  • [Tamiya]{#0096FF

  • Tamiya 1/35 Panzer I Ausf B

  • Lot 2

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya 1/48 F-35C lightning II

  • Lot 3

  • Value Gear Resin

  • Value Gear Resin Grab Bag – 1/35 Scale

  • 1/35

  • Nets #3

  • Crates #8 & open Crates and Lids

  • Stowage Set 27

  • Lot 4

  • Furball Aero Designs

  • Lo-Viz SLUFs A-7Es, Item number 48-068

  • Lot 5

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya 1/48 FM-1 Wildcat / Martlet

  • Lot 6

  • Hypersonic Models

  • 1x FJ-2/3 Nose Gear Strut (normal)

  • Lot 7

  • Value Gear Resin

  • Value Gear Resin Grab Bag – 1/72 Scale

  • Sherman Set #1

  • Tarps #3

  • German Truckloads #4

  • Sandbag Walls

  • Lot 8

  • Luftraum

  • Luftraum 72 Modeling Super Detailing the F-14 Book*

  • Lot 9

  • Tankraft

  • Tankraft Set of Benchtop Mat of winner’s choice and Aluminium Glue Base

  • Lot 10

  • Furball Aero Designs

  • Meyer’s Maulers 487th Fighter Squadron Part 1, Item number 48-094

  • Lot 11

  • Bases by BIll

  • Bases By Bill 1/48 USN Carrier Base

  • Lot 12

  • High Altitude Hobbies

  • High Altitude Hobbies Border Models 1/35 FW190A

  • Lot 13

  • Ak Interactive

  • AK Façade All in One Kit Number 3 – Space Station Gate

  • Lot 14

  • AK Interactive

  • AK Gen III Paint Set AK11759 – Calvin Tan German Uniforms WW Ii

  • Lot 15

  • Matters of Scale

  • Bundle 1

  • Matters of Scale 1/48 B-17 engines (set of 4)

  • Matters of Scale 1/48 R-2800 engine for Miniart P-47 bubbletop advanced

  • Matters of Scale 1/48 R-1830 for Eduard Wildcat

  • Lot 16

  • Bills Diorama Experience

  • Bill Huffman Diorama’s Experience  – Private 2 hour Coaching Session with Bill Huffman from SMC with any model of winner’s choice Starting Bid $ 150.00

  • Sunday Night PPP Auctions  7 PM EST / 4 PM PST

  • Lot 1

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya 1/48 P-38J Lightning

  • Lot 2

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya 1/35 Leopard 2A7V

  • Lot 3

  • Furball Aero Designs

  • Colors And Markings of US Navy Tomcats Part 2, Item number F/D&S-4809

  • Lot 4

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya 1/24 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

  • Lot 5

  • Luftraum

  • Luftraum Scale Scriber John Chung Modeling Masterfile F-16/F-18 Book*

  • Lot 6

  • Bases by Bill

  • BBB IJN 1/48 Carrier Base

  • Lot 7

  • Furball Aero Designs

  • Colors And Markings of US Navy Tomcats Part 7, Item number F/D&S-4815

  • Lot 8

  • Value Gear Resin

  • Value Gear Resin Grab Bag – 1/16 Scale

  • Lot 9

  • Ak Interactive

  • AK ABT 502 Tanks of the Wermacht WW II Hardbound

  • Lot 10

  • Ak InteractiveABT 501Master Modeler Series 1 – Rick Lawler – Signed

  • Lot 11

  • Furball Aero Designs

  • Growler Anthology Part 4, Item number 48-087

  • Lot 12

  • Tamiya

  • Tamiya USA/PPP EXCLUSIVE Tamiya Porsche 1/24 962C Jagermeister kit with Cartograph decals and paint masks – NOT RELEASED YET

  • Lot 13

  • Matters of Scale

  • Bundle 2:

  • Matters of Scale 1/48 Seats for B-26 Marauder with pads and belts

  • Matters of Scale 1/48 R-2800 engine for Tamiya P-47 razorback

  • Matters of Scale 1/48 R-1820 engine for Eduard FM-2

  • Lot 14

  • Experience Auction 2

  • PPP Experience Auction 2 – 1 hour Zoom OR in person session at Rocky Mountain Expo in SLC In June 2025 with Grant Mayberry and Rick Lawler on Figure Painting Starting Bid $ 150.00

  • Lot 15

  • PPP Experience Auction 3

  • PPP Experience Auction 3 – Private Coaching Session with John Bonanni at Rocky Mountain Expo in SLC with any model of winner’s choice Starting Bid $ 150.00

  • Unknown donors possible items

  • Scale Model Projects

  • TBA

  • Details and Scale Aviation Publications

  • TBA

  • Kotare Scale Models

  • TBA

  • LoinHeart Hobby

  • TBA

Our timetable covers the whole event .
You start the 48-48 challenge at 20:00 your time.

** You may have to adjust your timings if the time zone is different to what is shown.

Our timetable covers the whole event .
You start the 48-48 challenge at 20:00 your time.

** You may have to adjust your timings if the time zone is different to what is shown.

Our timetable covers the whole event .
You start the 48-48 challenge at 20:00 your time.

** You may have to adjust your timings if the time zone is different to what is shown.