Tips and Tricks

Assembly

Model Making Assembly

Rather than trying to cut plastic parts from the sprue in a single step, which will often result in minor damage, regard it as a two step process. Cut the part from the sprue framework with sharp wire cutters by cutting the sprue a short distance from the part. With the part completely detached from the framework, you can use a sharp knife to trim of the bits of sprue that are still attached to it.

Use aerosol-dispensed urethane foam to reinforce vacuum formed models.

Woodworkers sometimes mix sawdust from the piece they're working on with white glue (which dries clear) to make their own filler with an exact colour match.

Use white glue to attach clear plastic parts. The bond won't be anywhere near as strong as with plastic cement or cyano-acrylics but with white glue there is no chance of misting.

Precision cutting, especially of thin materials, is best done on a sheet of glass. Bear in mind however that it will blunt your blade more quickly than normal.

Certain parts, like missiles on aircraft, are prone to getting caught on things and damaged. So, consider attaching them with a low tack adhesive, like latex, then if they snag they will pull off without causing any damage and can be simply reattached.

This article is copyright (C) Andy Slater and is used here with permission
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