Build Your Own Kits

Fathers McGraw – £14.99

Gromit – £14.99

I think it's safe to say most people you’ll ask will say that the Wallace and Gromit films hold a special place in their hearts. Therefore, Build Your Own Kits have created their own sets which let you create your lovable companion Gromit, or even the criminal mastermind that is Feathers McGraw to add to your memorabilia collection or for free play activities where kids can act out the films themselves.

I was super excited to see these come across my desk as a big Wallace and Gromit fan. Each set provides the sturdy cardboard constructions we can expect from Build Your Own, now themed to each character. The Gromit set features 85 pieces which are slotted together without the need for scissors and glue. The final Gromit figure is a remarkable 20cm long, and even the ears and tail have been designed to move showing Gromit’s usual silent but complex emotions. I especially liked that in the set you can construct or pop out a small photo frame with a picture of Wallace and Gromit together in it, his water bowl, a bone and even some slippers. Each piece is made from sturdy cardboard and just needs to be popped out and slotted together.

Then, in the Feathers McGraw set (my personal favourite character) there are just 66 pieces which slot together to make the penguin figure which stands at almost 30 cm tall. Much like the Gromit set, Feathers McGraw also comes with a remote control for his masterful plans and a diamond – presumably stolen in some kind of heist! I like that the set has been designed so you can make Feathers walk – although the movement is definitely in a similar robotic way as we see with Wallace’s walk in ‘The Wrong Trousers’ Film.

Both of the Wallace and Gromit Build Your Own sets have been designed with fans in mind with well-constructed character designs which are true to the ones we see in the films, as well as with the addition of accessories perfect for each character too. These accessories are perfect for kids to use when creating their own scenes using the characters during free play time. I know my niece would be a massive fan of these and would get hours of playtime creating her own scenarios with Gromit and Feathers.

One of the best aspects of all Build Your Own kits is that they are designed to not need glue or scissors, so parents can buy them knowing that it’s a mess and hassle-free activity. In terms of construction difficulty, they aren’t super hard and come with super clear instructions for each set. I think only smaller children may need help from a parent to put it together, but then the construction can become a family activity too!

If you’re a big fan of Wallace and Gromit, or have a little one who loves the films, then the Build Your Own Gromit and Feathers McGraw sets are the perfect choice. Easy to put together, mess-free and all for an affordable price – a great activity all around.

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• Hours of freeform play once constructed
• Easy and mess-free construction – great for children