Sankei MP07-90 Studio Ghibli My Neighbor Totoro 'Got The Lost Mei' Paper Craft Assembly Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for assembling the Sankei MP07-90 Studio Ghibli My Neighbor Totoro 'Got The Lost Mei' paper craft kit. This kit allows you to create a detailed miniature diorama featuring characters and scenes from the beloved Studio Ghibli film, My Neighbor Totoro. Please read all instructions carefully before beginning assembly.

Image 1.1: The fully assembled 'Got The Lost Mei' diorama, showcasing the Catbus, Mei, and other scenic elements.

2. Safety Information

Please observe the following safety precautions:

• This product contains small parts and is not suitable for children under 3 years of age due to choking hazards.
• Adult supervision is recommended for younger builders.
• When using craft knives or scissors, exercise extreme caution to prevent injury.
• Use adhesives in a well-ventilated area and avoid contact with skin and eyes. Refer to the glue manufacturer's safety instructions.

3. Package Contents

Verify that all components are present in your kit before starting assembly. The kit includes:

• Laser sheets A-O (15 sheets) - Pre-cut paper sheets with various diorama elements.
• Base (1 sheet) - The foundation for your diorama.
• Printed sheet (1 sheet) - Additional decorative elements or background.
• Sponge - Used for applying texture or details.
• Assembly instructions (Japanese) - This English manual serves as a translation and detailed guide.

Image 3.1: Overview of the kit components, including the various laser-cut paper sheets and the sponge for detailing.

4. Setup and Preparation

Before you begin, gather the following recommended tools:

• Craft Knife or Precision Scissors: For carefully detaching parts from the laser sheets.
• Cutting Mat: To protect your work surface.
• Tweezers: Essential for handling small parts and precise placement.
• Quick-Drying Paper Glue: A clear-drying, strong adhesive suitable for paper crafts.
• Small Ruler: For accurate folding or alignment.

Ensure your workspace is clean, well-lit, and free from distractions. Organize your laser sheets by their labels (A-O) for easier access.

5. Assembly Instructions

Follow these steps to assemble your diorama. Refer to the provided images for visual guidance.

5.1. Detaching Parts

1. Carefully identify the parts needed for each step from the corresponding laser sheets.
2. Using a craft knife or precision scissors, gently detach each piece. Be mindful of delicate connections.
3. Place detached parts in a small container to prevent loss, especially the very small elements.

5.2. Base Assembly

1. Begin by assembling the base structure. This typically involves folding and gluing the main base sheet and any supporting side panels.
2. Ensure all folds are crisp and glue is applied evenly for a stable foundation.
3. Allow the base to dry completely before proceeding to the next steps.

Image 5.1: The rear view of the diorama, showing the structural support for the background and main elements.

5.3. Character and Scenery Elements

1. Assemble the main character elements, such as the Catbus and Mei. These often involve layering multiple paper pieces to create a 3D effect.
2. Construct the scenery elements, including trees, bushes, the power line tower, and the Jizo statue.
3. Use the sponge provided to apply any textured elements, such as the green foliage for the bushes. Apply a small amount of glue to the base where the foliage will go, then gently press the sponge material onto the glue.

5.4. Final Assembly and Placement

1. Once individual elements are assembled, carefully glue them onto the base according to the design.
2. Pay close attention to the placement and angles to recreate the scene accurately.
3. Allow the entire diorama to dry thoroughly before handling or displaying.

Image 5.2: A finger placed next to the diorama illustrates the miniature scale of the finished product.

6. Maintenance and Care

To preserve the quality and appearance of your paper craft diorama:

• Dusting: Gently dust the diorama with a soft brush or compressed air to remove accumulated dust. Avoid abrasive materials.
• Placement: Display the diorama in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperature changes. These conditions can cause fading, warping, or damage to the paper.
• Handling: Handle the diorama with care, avoiding excessive pressure or bending of delicate parts.

7. Troubleshooting

Here are solutions to common issues encountered during paper craft assembly:

• Parts Not Fitting: Double-check the part number and orientation. Sometimes a gentle trim with a craft knife can help if a piece is slightly too large.
• Glue Drying Too Fast: Work in smaller sections. For intricate parts, apply glue to one surface, position, and hold briefly.
• Glue Drying Too Slow: Ensure you are not using too much glue. A thin, even layer is usually sufficient. Use clothespins or clips to hold parts together while drying.
• Lost Small Parts: Work over a tray or a light-colored surface to make small parts easier to spot if dropped. If a part is lost, consider carefully crafting a replacement from spare paper if possible.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For specific warranty information or product support, please refer to the original packaging or contact Sankei customer service directly. As this is a craft kit, warranty typically covers manufacturing defects in components rather than assembly errors.