TIPS

Recommended Tools:

  • Hobby knife & blades
  • Tweezers
  • Adhesives*
  • Paints and/or Inks*

Optional Tools:

  • Glue Applicator*
  • Squaring Blocks
  • Weights
  • Sanding Sticks (paper)
  • Squares
  • Tapes
  • Chalks*

*See Details Below

Construction Tips:

  • Read all instructions thoroughly before beginning assembly of any kit.
  • Paint and / or ink all surfaces prior to removal of patrs from their sheets.
  • Allow paints and / or inks to dry completely.
  • Follow instructions in numerical order. Some notes may be attached, where applicable.
  • Remove only the parts required for that step.
  • Apply glue using an applicator simular to a syringe. This will allow the smallest of amount of glue required for mating parts.
  • Use squares, weights and squaring blocks in aligning wall, floor, roof, etc..
  • Some kits may have lines etched into their roof surfaces, use them as guides for alignment of roof material.
  • Use of chalks for weathering works very well. Give them a try, you will be amazed!

Adhesives:

  • Elmers white glue may be used for gluing wood, paper and other like materials. Though this glue works well, Elmers yellow (carpenters) glue is recommended, as this glue has a quicker tack (dry) time. Excellent results.
  • CA for gluing all other materials, other than acetate (window glazing).
  • Canopy glue, G-S Hypo Cement or Testors Clear Parts Cement works well for gluing acetate glazing.

Coloring:

  • Solvent based paints work well. Needs ventilation. High odor. Interior surfaces need not be painted. Mineral spirits cleanup.
  • Water (acrylic) based paints also work well. Less ventilation needed. Exterior and interior wall surgaces must be painted. Water cleanup.
  • Ink markers are an excellent medium for coloring. Interior surfaces need not be colored. Very low or no odor. No cleanup.

Weathering:

  • Many media may be used. Recommended is A.I.M. (Adventures in Miniature) or like chalks.

SUGGESTED MANUFACTURES PRODUCT LIST