What Glue Should I Use?
One of the questions I get asked a lot is: what type of glue should I use?
In the world of wargaming and model building, different types of glue serve various purposes, and choosing the right one depends on the materials you're working with and the specific needs of your project. Here are some common types of glue used in wargaming and model assembly:
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Plastic Cement / Plastic Glue:
- Composition: This type of glue is specifically formulated for bonding plastic models. It typically contains a solvent that melts and fuses the plastic surfaces together.
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Use: Ideal for assembling plastic model kits, especially those made of polystyrene. It creates strong, seamless bonds by chemically welding the plastic parts.
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Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate):
- Composition: Cyanoacrylate-based adhesives, commonly known as super glue, create bonds through a rapid chemical reaction.
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Use: Suitable for bonding a wide range of materials, including metal, resin, and some plastics. It's quick-drying and provides a strong bond. Be cautious as it can bond skin quickly, and excess glue may not be easily removed.
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Extra Thin Cement:
- Composition: This glue is a liquid with a low viscosity and contains a solvent for quickly bonding plastic parts.
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Use: Ideal for fine, delicate parts or for creating bonds in hard-to-reach areas. The thin consistency allows for capillary action, drawing the glue into small gaps. It's commonly used for fine-scale models.
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PVA Glue (White Glue):
- Composition: Polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue is a water-based adhesive.
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Use: Suitable for non-structural bonding of porous materials like paper, cardboard, and some woods. It's commonly used for terrain building and basing miniatures.
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Epoxy Resin:
- Composition: Epoxy adhesives consist of two components – a resin and a hardener – that must be mixed before use.
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Use: Provides a very strong, durable bond and is suitable for bonding various materials, including metal and resin. Epoxy takes longer to cure compared to super glue.
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Contact Cement:
- Composition: Contact cement is a rubber-based adhesive.
- Use: Ideal for bonding large surfaces and materials like foam or rubber. It requires both surfaces to be coated, allowed to dry, and then pressed together for a strong bond.
When working on wargaming miniatures and models, it's common for hobbyists to use a combination of these glues depending on the materials involved and the specific requirements of the assembly. Always follow safety guidelines and use the appropriate glue for your project to achieve the best results.
We have a few different options here at Wandering Adventures, check the links below to see more.