Model Adhesive Selection Guide
Choosing the right adhesive is crucial for a strong, clean bond in scale modelling. Different materials require different glues, and the wrong choice can cause poor adhesion, surface damage or visible residue. This guide covers the main adhesive types used in model making.
Adhesive Comparison
| Adhesive type | Bond strength | Set time | Gap-filling | Suitable materials | Fumes / ventilation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poly cement (tube) | Excellent | 30–60 sec tack; 24 hr full cure | Good | Polystyrene only | Moderate — use in ventilated area |
| Liquid poly cement (thin) | Excellent | 5–15 sec tack; 24 hr full cure | None | Polystyrene only | Strong — good ventilation essential |
| Extra-thin cement (e.g. Tamiya) | Excellent | 3–10 sec tack; 12–24 hr cure | None | Polystyrene only | Strong — good ventilation essential |
| Super glue (CA) — thin | Very good | 5–15 sec | None | Metal, resin, most plastics, wood | Mild — can irritate eyes |
| Super glue (CA) — medium | Very good | 15–30 sec | Slight | Metal, resin, most plastics, wood | Mild — can irritate eyes |
| Super glue (CA) — thick/gel | Good | 30–60 sec | Good | Metal, resin, most plastics, wood | Mild — can irritate eyes |
| CA activator / kicker | — | Instant cure of CA | — | Spray on CA joints to speed cure | Moderate — solvent-based spray |
| Two-part epoxy (5-min) | Excellent | 5 min working; 1 hr cure | Excellent | Metal, resin, wood, most plastics, mixed materials | Low — mild odour |
| Two-part epoxy (slow set) | Excellent | 30–60 min working; 12–24 hr cure | Excellent | All materials; structural bonds | Low — mild odour |
| PVA / white glue | Moderate | 10–30 min tack; 1–4 hr cure | Some | Wood, card, paper, scenery materials | None — safe, non-toxic |
| UHU / all-purpose | Moderate | 1–5 min tack; 12 hr cure | Some | Mixed materials, clear parts | Moderate — solvent-based |
| Canopy glue (e.g. Micro Kristal Klear) | Light | 5–15 min tack; 1 hr cure | Some | Clear parts, canopies, windows | None — water-based |
Key Tips
Poly cement works by dissolving the polystyrene surfaces, creating a chemical weld that is stronger than the plastic itself. It only works on polystyrene — it will not bond resin, metal or ABS. Super glue is the go-to for resin and metal parts. For joining dissimilar materials (e.g. metal to plastic), use CA or epoxy. Never use poly cement on clear parts — the fumes will cause fogging.
Plastic Kit Calculators
Use our free tools for your plastic kit projects:
- Build Time Calculator — estimate how long a kit will take to complete
- Parts Count Calculator — work out complexity and plan your build
Set times are approximate and depend on temperature, humidity and joint fit. Always test adhesives on scrap material first, especially with new or unfamiliar plastics. Store CA glue in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.