Matchitecture
Matchitecture is a Canadian construction kit brand that uses specially manufactured wooden microbeams (matchstick-sized sticks without heads) to build detailed three-dimensional models of famous buildings, vehicles, boats and other structures. The brand was created by Roland Quinton, a pharmacist from Quebec who began constructing with wooden matches and corks at the age of eight. By the age of 30, he had developed the precision construction technique and custom tooling that Matchitecture uses today. The kits are designed and manufactured in Canada.
Each Matchitecture matchstick model kit includes all the microbeams needed for the build, a microbeam cutter, wood glue, tweezers, an assembly board with a clear acetate work sheet and detailed plans. The builder cuts and glues the microbeams into flat sections on the acetate sheet, then assembles the sections together to form the completed 3D model. Subjects range from world-famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building, Big Ben, Notre Dame Cathedral and the CN Tower, through to windmills, bridges, boats, motorcycles, construction machinery and aircraft. Kits are graded by complexity, with starter kits containing around 500 microbeams for beginners and deluxe kits containing 2,000 to 4,500 microbeams for experienced builders. Refill packs of microbeams are also available for those who want to create their own original designs.
At Wonderland Models, we stock a selection of Matchitecture kits. Shop securely online for express shipping or visit our in-store experts in Edinburgh for personalised advice.
Matchitecture
Matchitecture is a Canadian construction kit brand that uses specially manufactured wooden microbeams (matchstick-sized sticks without heads) to build detailed three-dimensional models of famous buildings, vehicles, boats and other structures. The brand was created by Roland Quinton, a pharmacist from Quebec who began constructing with wooden matches and corks at the age of eight. By the age of 30, he had developed the precision construction technique and custom tooling that Matchitecture uses today. The kits are designed and manufactured in Canada.
Each Matchitecture matchstick model kit includes all the microbeams needed for the build, a microbeam cutter, wood glue, tweezers, an assembly board with a clear acetate work sheet and detailed plans. The builder cuts and glues the microbeams into flat sections on the acetate sheet, then assembles the sections together to form the completed 3D model. Subjects range from world-famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building, Big Ben, Notre Dame Cathedral and the CN Tower, through to windmills, bridges, boats, motorcycles, construction machinery and aircraft. Kits are graded by complexity, with starter kits containing around 500 microbeams for beginners and deluxe kits containing 2,000 to 4,500 microbeams for experienced builders. Refill packs of microbeams are also available for those who want to create their own original designs.
At Wonderland Models, we stock a selection of Matchitecture kits. Shop securely online for express shipping or visit our in-store experts in Edinburgh for personalised advice.
- How Matchitecture Kits Work
Each Matchitecture kit includes specially manufactured microbeams (matchstick-sized wooden sticks without heads), a microbeam cutter, wood glue, tweezers, an assembly board with a clear acetate work sheet and detailed plans. The builder studies the plans, lays the protective acetate over the assembly board, then cuts and glues the microbeams into flat sections on the sheet. Once dry, the flat sections are lifted off and assembled together to form the completed three-dimensional model. The technique is straightforward but requires patience and precision, making it a deeply satisfying craft project that can take anywhere from a few hours for simpler kits to many hours for larger builds like Notre Dame or the Eiffel Tower.
- Matchitecture Subjects
The range covers famous architectural landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Empire State Building, Big Ben, Notre Dame Cathedral, the CN Tower and windmills. Beyond buildings, Matchitecture produces kits of vehicles, boats, aircraft, bridges and construction machinery. Starter kits with lower microbeam counts provide an accessible entry point, while deluxe kits with 2,000 to 4,500 microbeams offer a more challenging, longer-term build. Refill packs of microbeams are also available for builders who want extra materials or who wish to create their own designs.
- Why Buy Matchitecture from Wonderland Models?
Wonderland Models stocks a selection of Matchitecture kits. Whether you are looking for a relaxing craft project, a unique gift, or a challenging large-scale build, our team can help. We offer fast UK delivery with express options, secure online ordering, and over 50 years of specialist hobby knowledge. Visit our Edinburgh store or shop online with confidence.
- What age are Matchitecture kits suitable for?
Matchitecture kits are recommended for ages 10 and over. The cutting and gluing required demand reasonable dexterity and patience. Younger builders may enjoy the simpler starter kits with adult supervision, while larger kits are well suited to teenagers and adults.
- Do Matchitecture kits include everything needed?
Yes. Each kit includes all the microbeams needed, a microbeam cutter, wood glue, tweezers, a protective acetate work sheet, an assembly board and full-size plans. No additional tools or materials are required to complete the build.
- Where are Matchitecture kits made?
Matchitecture kits are designed and manufactured in Canada. The brand was created by Roland Quinton, a pharmacist from Quebec who began building with wooden matches as a child and went on to develop the microbeam construction technique that Matchitecture uses today.
- How long does a Matchitecture kit take to build?
Build times vary depending on the kit size. Smaller starter kits with around 500 microbeams can be completed in a few hours. Larger deluxe kits with 2,000 to 4,500 microbeams can take many hours spread over multiple sessions. The build process is intended to be relaxing and enjoyable rather than rushed.