The Basics of using resin parts
Tools needed
When using tools please make sure you follow the manufacturers guide lines carefully. Tools should be handled with care at all times.
Craft Knife
A knife may be necessary for cleaning up some resin parts prior to assembly. It’s also worth buying a cutting mat.
Pin Vice/drill
You will need one of these if you want to drill holes in your components. This is usually only necessary if you want to add strength to a join with large and/or heavy components by pinning them with metal rod. Pinning is recommended for stacking a base.
Pins
Anything from metal rod to paper clips can be used to pin together parts. The thickness of the pin needed depends on the structural mass of the parts you want attaching (the bigger and heavier the part, the thicker the pin needed).
Glue
Standard modeling super glue works just fine for gluing resin pieces. PVA glue is better suited for gluing a scatter material into place (sand, granite, static grass etc).
PVA Glue brush/stick
When using PVA you will need something to apply it to the base. Most people use either an old paint brush or a thin piece of wood (toothpick, matchstick etc.) If using a wooden stick make sure that it is splinter free.
Files/Sand Paper
Used for cleaning and smoothing castings and filing pieces.
Dust Mask
When filing or sanding resin components make sure to wear a face mask. Like any fine dust, breathing resin dust is not good for your health.
Preparing your resin parts.
For best results wash resin parts. We would reccommend using an old toothbrush.
Removing Excess Resin
Just like metal and plastic models there might be excess material that needs removing from the cast object before assembly. The difference being that with resin models bits removal must be done with more care. These are the result of the casting process and unavoidable.
Mould Lines
Resin pieces are produced from rubber moulds. A two part mould has split lines. Consequently there will often be a line on the model that shows where the mould joined. Sometimes these are fine enough that they can be ignored. To get the best results however they will need removing so that they don't show up after painting. To remove the lines use either a modeling knife, file or sandpaper and carefully scrape or file away the line. One part moulds do not have this problem.
Flash
Flash is caused during the casting process. It is easily removed with a knife or file.
Kneadite/milliput
Due to the casting process some casts may contain micro holes. These are unavoidable but can easily be filled in with modelling putty.