Video tutorial 01 - proper gluing technique

Written by Viper

Here's a short clip on how to properly use Tamiya Extra Thin Cement to glue styrene plastic parts.

With the correct method, a perfect join can be achieved that does not require putty or filler, thus saving a lot of time and effort.

This second part shows how I clean up the glued part that has been left to dry overnight.

Related notes :

Styrene cement is a chemical that 'dissolves' styrene plastic.
The chemical reaction causes both parts to meld together, like welded metal.
Take advantage of the extra melted plastic to fill any gaps in the join.
Extra thin cement flows like water. Thicker cement contains binder to help hold parts before they cure.
Alignment is critical for perfect joins, especially for fuselage.
Shim if necessary to get perfect alignment. Cut off location pins if they don't help.
Glue in short sections
Hold parts in alignment, then apply 1-2 inches of cement to the gap
Extra thin cement flows via capilliary action
Wait a few seconds, then squeeze to make the softened plastic ooze between the join.
Double-check alignment.
Leave aside to dry for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
Sanding too early will mess up the alignment.
Give priority to the more visible joins.
Once dry, shave off or sand off excess plastic
Take care not to remove too much
Preserve the rounded contours of the original part
Work up the grit scale to remove previous sanding marks
Finish up with buffing