When working on miniature kits, it is important to choose the right glue for the job. The wrong glue can damage your kit, or not create a strong enough bond to hold the pieces together.
There are many different types of glue available, so it can be difficult to know which one to choose.
Top 7 Glue for Miniature Kits
Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate)
Ah, good ol’ super glue. This adhesive has been a staple in the miniature community for quite some time, and for good reason.
Cyanoacrylate, the chemical name for super glue, provides a strong bond that dries quickly and works well with a variety of materials, such as metal, plastic, and resin.
It’s a popular choice for assembling miniatures, from wargaming figures to dollhouse furniture.
Pros:
- Quick drying time (seconds to minutes)
- Strong bond
- Versatile (works with various materials)
Cons:
- Can be brittle (not ideal for load-bearing or flexible parts)
- May cause a white residue (known as “frosting”)
Best Available Super Glue
- Loctite Super Glue
- Gorilla Super Glue
- Bob Smith Industries Insta-Cure+
PVA Glue (Polyvinyl Acetate)
PVA glue is a water-soluble adhesive that dries clear and is typically used for porous materials like paper and wood. It’s not the strongest glue out there, but it’s perfect for when you need a bit of wiggle room during assembly or want to avoid the risk of frosting. Plus, PVA glue is excellent for basing miniatures and attaching scenic elements, like grass or sand, to your tiny landscapes.
Pros:
- Dries clear
- Flexible bond
- Great for basing and scenic elements
Cons:
- Not as strong as other glues
- Longer drying time (hours to overnight)
Best PVA Glue
- Elmer’s Glue-All
- Aleene’s Original Tacky Glue
- Mod Podge
Epoxy Resin
If you’re looking for a heavy-duty adhesive, epoxy resin is the way to go. This two-part adhesive consists of a resin and a hardener, which need to be mixed before use. Once combined, epoxy forms an incredibly strong bond that can withstand the test of time. It’s particularly useful for large or heavy miniatures and complex assemblies that require extra stability.
Pros:
- Extremely strong bond
- Durable and long-lasting
- Good for heavy or complex miniatures
Cons:
- Longer drying time (hours to overnight)
- Requires mixing before use
- Can be messy and difficult to work with
Top Picks:
- J-B Weld Original Cold-Weld Formula
- Gorilla Epoxy
- Araldite Rapid Epoxy
Plastic Cement
For those working primarily with plastic miniatures, plastic cement is a must-have. Unlike other glues, plastic cement doesn’t just stick pieces together – it actually melts and fuses the plastic, resulting in a seamless and robust bond. This adhesive is especially popular among scale model builders and is available in both liquid and gel forms.
Pros:
- Strong bond for plastic miniatures
- Fuses plastic parts together
- Available in liquid and gel forms
Cons:
- Only works with certain plastics
- Fumes can be strong and irritating
Top Picks:
- Tamiya Extra Thin Cement
- Testors Plastic Cement
- Revell Contacta Professional
Hot Glue
Although not as commonly used in miniature kits, hot glue is a handy option when you need a quick and temporary bond. Hot glue guns melt adhesive sticks, allowing you to apply the glue with precision. While it may not provide the strongest bond, hot glue is excellent for mock-ups, temporary attachments, or securing larger pieces while other adhesives dry.
Pros:
- Quick drying time (minutes)
- Easy to apply with a glue gun
- Good for temporary bonds or mock-ups
Cons:
- Not as strong as other glues
- Requires a glue gun
- Can be difficult to remove once cooled
Top Picks:
- Gorilla Hot Glue Sticks
- AdTech Multi-Temp Glue Sticks
- Surebonder Mini Glue Sticks
Spray Adhesives
When you need to cover a large surface area, spray adhesives can be a lifesaver. These aerosol-based glues provide an even layer of adhesive, making them perfect for attaching large decals, applying flocking materials, or bonding lightweight materials like foam. Keep in mind that spray adhesives are not meant for heavy-duty applications or detailed work, but they can be a helpful addition to your toolbox.
Pros:
- Easy to apply over large areas
- Good for lightweight materials
- Useful for decals and flocking
Cons:
- Not suitable for heavy-duty applications
- Can be messy and require proper ventilation
Top Picks:
- 3M Super 77 Multipurpose Adhesive
- Krylon Easy-Tack Repositionable Adhesive
- Aleene’s Spray Acrylic Sealer
UV Resin
UV resin is a unique adhesive that cures (hardens) when exposed to ultraviolet light. This adhesive is popular in crafting and jewelry making, but it also has applications in miniature assembly. UV resin provides a strong bond and is excellent for filling small gaps or securing clear parts, like windows or canopies. While it’s not as versatile as other glues, UV resin can be a valuable addition to your adhesive arsenal.
Pros:
- Cures quickly with UV light
- Strong bond
- Great for filling gaps or securing clear parts
Cons:
- Requires UV light to cure
- Can be more expensive than other glues
Top Picks:
- Bondic UV Resin
- RapidFix UV Liquid Plastic Adhesive
- Limino UV Resin
What is the best glue to attach the miniature to the base?
The best glue for attaching miniatures to their bases depends on the materials involved. However, for most miniature applications, super glue (cyanoacrylate) or PVA glue (polyvinyl acetate) are the top choices.
Do I need to prepare the surfaces of my miniatures and bases before applying glue?
Yes, You need to clean and prepare the surfaces of your miniatures and bases before applying glue to ensure a strong bond. Remove any mold lines or flash, and lightly sand or score the contact points to create a rough surface for better adhesion.
My Thoughts
As you can see, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution, so it’s essential to choose the right adhesive for your specific project. By keeping the pros and cons of each glue in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating sturdy, long-lasting miniatures that will stand the test of time.
So, go ahead, and let your creativity soar! With the perfect glue in hand, you’ll be able to bring your miniature masterpieces to life with confidence. Happy crafting!