Firstly this is meant purely as a guide to preparing and assembling our resin kits.
Preparation
- Prior to commencement familiarise yourself with the instruction sheet. Check that all the components are there and correct, as our resin kits do not have individual part numbers.
- It is advisable to wash the parts in tepid water using household detergent (washing up liquid) and a soft brush. This will remove any grease and release agent that may still be on the surface of the resin parts. It is advisable to use a bowl or similar, not the open sink as parts may be lost.
- Carefully remove parts as required from the casting blocks, usually a good pair of clippers will suffice. For larger gates a razor saw or jewellers piercing saw is ideal. It is advisable not to remove the entire feed, cut the sprue (feed) 1 or 2mm away from the required part. Once released trim the remains of the feed (clippers, scalpel, file) finish with very fine sandpaper or wet and dry paper. Any broken parts that may occur during release from the casting gates are easily rectified using cyanoacrylate (super glue). Please remember it can be harmful to health to inhale resin dust so we suggest a mask should be worn for your own safety.
- Warped parts are common to resin, this some times happens to thinner parts where they have bent or twisted slightly. The cause is often due to the heat generated by the resin curing. This can easily be rectified by carefully applying heat, either by hairdryer or immersing in hot water (not boiling). For the hot water method all you require is a small container, hot water and a flat surface. Immerse the twisted part one at a time in hot water for a few seconds, thicker pieces will require longer. Remove from the water place on a flat surface apply gentle finger pressure to correct. If still warped repeat the process leaving the item in the hot water slightly longer. Often the effected part will reform to its original shape by its self.
Assembly
- Prior to gluing it is advisable to dry fit all parts to identify potential problems.
- Superglue is needed to assemble resin models, Medium is probably the most commonly used for general gluing. Thick superglue will allow for some adjustment when sticking a model. Combined with activator this will greatly speed the drying process.
TIP:- Only apply superglue to one of the parts to be joined together, applying glue to both pieces is not recommended.
For larger parts fuselage halves etc, 5 minute twin pack epoxy resin can also be used, this will allow more time to position and align parts correct. - Once assembled gaps will require filling, most modelling filler available are suitable. Milliput Standard yellow-grey is ideal if you have the time as it usually takes overnight to cure properly. If you wish something more instant then Perfect Plastic Putty is the ideal solution. Manufactured by Deluxe Materials it is one part fast drying superfine filler. Apply to gaps large or small, smooth over/clean up with water allow 15/30 minuets drying time (dependent on thickness) sand to an ultra smooth finish. Small gaps/pin holes can be filled with superglue or Tippex correction fluid.
- Over sanded panel lines can be re scribed at this point. If using a scriber (Tamiya) great care should be taken as it may cut too deep. The back of a scalpel or darning needle is more controllable doing several light passes. The use of Dymo tape is a great way to get those lines straight. Simply cut the required length peel off the protected paper and stick it to the model, the tapes thickness acts as a straight edge. Once assembly has been completed wash the model again in detergent to ensure that all debris and handling grease are removed. Make sure the model is completely dry prior to applying the base coat.
Primer
There are many different primers readily available within the market place. Our recommendation is to use a good quality car body primer available from most motor stores or Alclad 2 primer and microfiller. The advantages, they dry very fast, adhere well to resin and will take any finishing paint, cellulose, lacquer, enamel or acrylic.
Apply 2/3 light coats of primer this will reveal any imperfections to the filled areas, adjust as necessary. Once happy a solid coat of primer can be applied, simply set aside to completely dry. Prior to applying the final paint application it is recommended that you lightly sand the whole model with micro-mesh grade 12000. This will give you an unbelievable smooth base in preparation for the finishing colour.
I hope you found this helpful and of interest, if you require any further advice then please do not hesitate to contact us at sales@144th.co.uk.