Best Glue for Miniatures – Buyer’s Guide

The first glue, which I attempted to use, turned out to be perfect, or better to say, it could perfectly bond my own fingers till the end of the day. With the second one, I was really careful, and it continued running and running out of the tube since I did not realize that it was too thin. The third attempt was supposed to be a success; the only problem was the smell of glue, which did not allow me to breathe anymore. I don’t want you to follow my mistakes, just use the results of my experience with the really best options for miniatures’ glue.

Comparison Table – Best Model Glue (Updated April, 2023)

ProductProduct InformationView on Amazon
Editor’s Choice

Testors 3509C Testors Plastic Cement Value Pack

1) Testors 3509C

  • Best Features:
    – Testers model glue is perfect for plastic models
    – It has a strong chemical bond
    – There are four tips included in the kit
  • Color: Clear
  • Drying Time: 20 sec
  • Capacity: 2.4 oz

Check Price

Professional Grade Cyanoacrylate (CA)Super Glue by Glue Masters - 56 Grams - Thick Viscosity Adhesive for Plastic, Wood & DIY Crafts

2) Glue Masters Cyanoacrylate Glue

  • Best Features:
    – Glue Masters instant glue could be used for different materials, including wood, metal, plastic, porcelain
    – It secures the strongest bond
    – It is suitable for household repairs
  • Color: Clear
  • Drying Time: 60 sec
  • Capacity: 2 oz

Check Price

Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue Fine Tip 40ml

3) Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue

  • Best Features:
    – Tamiya Model-Glue is suitable for plastic model kits
    – It is ideal for polystyrene plastic
    – It could be used for utterly small surfaces and connections
  • Color: Clear
  • Drying Time: 40 sec
  • Capacity: 2.1 oz

Check Price

E6000 230010 Craft Adhesive, 3.7 Fluid Ounces

4) E6000 230010 Craft Adhesive

  • Best Features:
    – E6000 230010 Craft Adhesive could be used with a variety of materials,
    – It is paintable
    – It is temperature resistant
  • Color: Clear
  • Drying Time: 24 hours
  • Capacity: 3.7 oz

Check Price

Loctite Liquid Professional Super Glue, 2 Pack

5) Loctite

  • Best Features:
    – Loctite super glue is known for super performance
    – It is resistant to moisture
    – It is resistant to freezing
  • Color: Clear
  • Drying Time: 15-30 sec
  • Capacity: 0.88 oz

Check Price

Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy, 5 Minute Set, .85 ounce Syringe, Clear, (Pack of 1)

6) Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy

  • Best Features:
    – Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy secures adhesion of dissimilar materials
    – It has gap filling capability
    – It is shock and vibration resistant
  • Color: Clear
  • Drying Time: 30 mins
  • Capacity: 0.88 oz

Check Price

Best Glue for Model Kits Reviews

1. Testors 3509C – Best Glue for Plastic Models

Quality and price

Usually, model makers are forced to operate plastic as the main materials of miniatures. Thus, they are to look for the most appropriate glue for their models, made of plastic, and for sure they will have a wide choice, but they have to choose the glue to work perfectly with plastic materials. Testers 3509C belong to the long list of Testers cements, and they are generally famous for their strong adhesiveness and quick and easy process of drying. Actually such type of glue is really easy to apply, and it secures a good combination of top quality and rational price.

Advantages

The strong point of this glue is the fact that it can keep for a long time if you always remember that the cap should be on. It does not dry out, on condition that the cap is kept on. Thus modeling of plastic kits and miniatures could last for a decade. It is rational to use the paper towel when opening the glue to avoid spilling of it if you squeeze too firmly.

Product Rating
Value for Money
4.9/ 5
Drying Time
5/ 5
Versatility
4.7/ 5
Easy to Use
4.9/ 5
Result
4.9
Pros & Cons
Strong hold is secured
You can choose between 4 types
Good adhesiveness
Long-lasting
Is not recommended for children under 14 without supervision
Drying process takes some time

Expert Verdict
Maria
Maria
Ask Question

Testers are recommended if you plan to work with miniatures or mini figures, which are made of plastic. The glue is thick enough, but you have to control the amount of the glue, which comes out of the tube, often there is too much of glue. It is also advisable for the users, who pay attention to the price of the product.

View On Amazon

2. Glue Masters – Best Super Glue for Miniatures

Versatile Applications

If you plan to work with different materials, your logical option will be the glue, which you will use for managing various kinds of materials. Glue Masters Cyanoacrylate Glue is accepted as a perfect variant among super glues, which could be purchased for easy and varied use. You will have to apply only some small amount of the glue in order to secure that the surfaces remain connected perfectly and firmly. There are a lot of names for that glue, for example, such glues as super glue and instant glue.

Characteristics

This glue is characterized by the adequately strong connection for the price, you pay for it and could be applied even in production. It is characterized by a fast cure and extended shelf life. Even some small amounts of this glue reveal high efficiency of bonding. This glue is known for its high purity and good distillation. It could be applied at home or in some production or workshop. The speed of assembly won’t make you lose your time since it takes only 60 seconds. The gap filler has a true structure.

Product Rating
Value for Money
4.7/ 5
Drying Time
4.8/ 5
Versatility
4.8/ 5
Easy to Use
4.9/ 5
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
The bottle remains clean for a long time
Strong performance
Leaves no residue
Can be used in water
If it is spilled, it will take some time to remove

Expert Verdict
Maria
Maria
Ask Question

This version of Glue Masters is thiсk, which means that you could use it for your serious and big projects. When you add this glue to the surface, you will be sure that it will remain on it without spilling or flowing. It is advisable to use clams for some specific types of tasks.

View On Amazon

3. Tamiya – Best Rated Plastic Model Glue

Special Formula

Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue is often preferred by modelers in the whole world. It is always present in their workshops, as they have already got an idea about its strong points and benefits for their work. You will definitely choose this type of glue with the proviso you have a kit with models, made of plastic, namely polystyrene plastic. It is highly appreciated for its thin formula, as it secures the opportunity for the constructor to unite some very small pieces. If miniatures are your hobby, then you know how often you have to glue some parts together, which demand the highest degree of accuracy, this is granted by Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue.

Consistency

The glue is unique, so if you add it to the joining surfaces, it won’t start seeping out. Moreover, thanks to its consistency, you could try to add it to the minor cracks, the glue fills them and secures perfect bonding. That is why if you have the task to glue the parts with utterly tight spaces, Tamiya 87038 Extra Thin Cement Glue becomes your preferred choice.

Product Rating
Value for Money
4.8/ 5
Drying Time
4.9/ 5
Versatility
4.7/ 5
Easy to Use
4.8/ 5
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
Creates permanent bonds
Gets easily into the seams
Dries quickly
Perfect for precise work
Removes paint, where it is applied
Should not be applied for metal surfaces
Ventilated area is needed because of the smell

Expert Verdict
Maria
Maria
Ask Question

Tamiya is a great option for the cases when you have the parts with small cracks. The glue gets into them, and this makes the fitting even better and bonding stronger. Usually, the modelers appreciate its short drying time and clean finishing.

View On Amazon

4. E6000 230010 Craft Adhesive – Best Glue for Clear Plastic Surfaces

Self-leveling formula

If you need to glue wooden or ceramic parts in glass figures, wood frames with fabric, birdhouses, made of wood, planters of wood or ceramic, and so on, the best choice would be E6000 230010 Craft Adhesive. This glue was produced with special self-leveling formula, which secures easy use on difficult surfaces and by the individuals, who do not have much experience with glues. It could be perfect for permanent repairs, which previously demanded weighty financial contributions.

Comparison to Other Cements

If to compare E6000 230010 Craft Adhesive to silicones or rubber cements, it is evident that the strong benefit of this one is its adhesion strength. It could be applied for work with details, made of metal, plastic, or glass, which diversifies the spheres of its application from repairs to transport maintenance. Thanks to its self-leveling characteristic, E6000 230010 Craft Adhesive could play the role of potting materials in electrical or computer applications.

Product Rating
Value for Money
4.6/ 5
Drying Time
3.9/ 5
Versatility
4.8/ 5
Easy to Use
4.6/ 5
Result
4.5
Pros & Cons
Holds perfectly
Leaves time for accurate attachment of the parts
Waterproof
Self-leveling formula
Some specific smell

Expert Verdict
Maria
Maria
Ask Question

This glue has rubber compounds, and they make it usable for multiple purposes. Modelers, who work with glass, metal or ceramics, would choose exactly this glue. The glue is characterized by high flexibility, so do not hesitate to use it for your complex models.

View On Amazon

5. Loctite – Best Glue for Metal Miniatures

Special epoxy formula

If you choose the Loctite Professional Super Glue, then test it with different materials. Even if you don’t have specialized skills in dealing with glues, Loctite has pin-point nozzle for cases of oozing and dripping. You can use the glue if you make a repair because it has a special epoxy formula. It secures success for the work projects with repairing and some heavy-to-connect parts.

Adhesiveness

The maximal level of adhesiveness could be achieved in just 30 seconds, which saves time during work. An open/lock cap was made with such a mechanism, which contributes to preventing spillage or biding up of the glue. The glue does not react to high freezing or hot temperatures, and it is water-resistant.

Product Rating
Value for Money
5/ 5
Drying Time
4.9/ 5
Versatility
4.5/ 5
Easy to Use
4.8/ 5
Result
4.8
Pros & Cons
Extremely strong bonding power
The cap never gets stuck
Rapid drying
Might need disposable gloves
It is not applicable for paper

Expert Verdict
Maria
Maria
Ask Question

If you need to make some minor, but important repairs, you would like to choose a good super glue option. Loctite is the option, which would allow you to get better results in comparison to other super glues. It is fast and strong enough to be chosen by users for different surfaces.

View On Amazon

6. Gorilla – Best Glue for Resin Miniatures

The New Generation of Glues

The Gorilla glue is said to belong to the new generation of epoxy glues. The benefits of the glue relate to its water/ solvent resistant characteristics. It is strong and durable, applicable for professional and non-professional spheres.

Two-component Structure

The resin and hardeners are provided separately and have a specific system for dispense. This contributes to the glue duration, as Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy does not harden as time passes. Upon drying, the glue is crystal clear. Thus it does not spoil the appearance of the parts as soon as your work is readily done. It could be used for either indoor or outdoor works.

Product Rating
Value for Money
5/ 5
Drying Time
4.2/ 5
Versatility
4.7/ 5
Easy to Use
4.2/ 5
Result
4.5
Pros & Cons
Permanent formula and strength
Clear drying
Cap is provided with the kit
Needs some practice to mix the components of the epoxy

Expert Verdict
Maria
Maria
Ask Question

The Gorilla glue is recommended for the situations when especially strong bonding is expected by the users. But it is important to pay attention to the instructions regarding the mixing of the two components of the glue. Under the conditions that the procedure is done in the correct way, you will get perfect bonding as the final result.

View On Amazon

Buyer’s Guide

Types

Types

There are various glue types, which could be used in the process of work with plastic models. It is necessary to take the correct option for connecting the plastic parts between each other or gluing of plastic parts to the metal surfaces and so on.

Solvent cement is usually chosen by individuals who consider themselves to be serious builders of the models. The process of bonding takes place thanks to the chemical melting process on the two surfaces like welding.

Epoxy glues are utterly strong, and this makes them usable for different materials. They are made up of two components, which are mixed up together.

Cyanoacrylate is well-known as super glue and is applied by those for whom making models is a hobby. It could be successfully used for connecting various materials.

Canopy glue is often applied by airplane creators and RC builders, as it dries quickly without having any traces on the canopy.

Clamping Time

Clamping Time

Clamping time is different for all glues, sometimes there are clamps used in order to keep the parts fixed together.

Drying Time

Drying Time

Drying time varies for different types of glue. It could be from 20 seconds to 24 hours, depending upon the concrete glue, the types of materials connected, and the compatibility of the materials.

The Viscosity of the Glue

The Viscosity of the Glue

The viscosity of the glue is measured for the liquid resistance to flow. The glues, which are characterized by higher viscosity, do not flow as well as those with low viscosity.

FAQ
Do I need to choose the appropriate glue for Warhammer? Which would be the best option?
Maria
Assembly of Warhammer or metal models is not possible without appropriate glue. If you are greatly interested in choosing the best one, not to lose your time and avoid risks, then you might choose Loctite super glue. The glue is created with a long nozzle for accurate application; it is temperature-resistant and water-resistant and could be used for a wide specter of materials, including rubber, metal, or plastic.
How do you glue plastic miniatures?
Maria
Nowadays, there are a lot of game companies, which offer miniatures kits for assembly. The first challenge for the process is related to the correct choice of the best glue. The kits are often made up of various components of different materials; consider them first, before purchasing the glue. Also, try to predict whether you might need the glue with a special nozzle on end for accurate locating of the glue on the surface.
Could you advise the best glue for ABS plastic?
Maria
Before pouring the glue for ABS plastic, you should secure that the surfaces are dry and clean. For bonding of ABS plastic, you can use two components epoxies, Polyurethanes, or Structural Acrylics. For the cases, when there are flexible joints, MS polymers are available.
What is the best glue for plastic model airplanes, cars, or rockets?
Maria
Before pouring the glue for ABS plastic, you should secure that the surfaces are dry and clean. For bonding of ABS plastic, you can use two components epoxies, Polyurethanes, or Structural Acrylics. For the cases, when there are flexible joints, MS polymers are available.
What is the best glue for plastic model airplanes, cars, or rockets?
Maria
If you have to glue a plastic model airplane, car, or rocket, you should not rely upon super glue, as you won’t want to risk the overall design and firmness of the parts’ connections. Testors model glue or Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy could be suitable for your aims.
If there is an excess of glue, how can I remove it?
Maria
If you have small details, where it is important to make a dot for dot connections, then it is better to choose the glues with special nozzles. If there are still some places with an excess of glue, then it is possible to clean them with a piece of paper towel.
What should I do before using the glue?
Maria
First, cut out the small pieces of the miniature, then check, in they fit together, and then start to glue. Sometimes it is also necessary to clean the surfaces before using glue.

Conclusion

Overall, the process of making miniatures, small models of cars, rockets; Warhammer attracts millions of people as a form of hobby. There are enough professional spheres, where glues are needed for connecting small parts and details. Irrespective of the fact, whether you are looking for good glue for your professional or hobby purposes, you have to pay enough attention towards choosing the most appropriate and effective type of glue for your work. It is better not to rely upon a good chance and make your conscious choice on the basis of the given characteristics of each type of glue. There are plenty of options available, but it is necessary to consider all the factors before getting any of them. As soon as you have a better understanding of the types of glue, of the bonds, which could be made with each of them, you will manage to avoid problems with the final result of your work. If you aim at adding style and you personalize your miniatures then consider the Best Paints For Miniatures.

Maria
Maria
Rate author
Leave a Reply

Do I need to choose the appropriate glue for Warhammer? Which would be the best option?
Assembly of Warhammer or metal models is not possible without appropriate glue. If you are greatly interested in choosing the best one, not to lose your time and avoid risks, then you might choose Loctite super glue. The glue is created with a long nozzle for accurate application; it is temperature-resistant and water-resistant and could be used for a wide specter of materials, including rubber, metal, or plastic.
How do you glue plastic miniatures?
Nowadays, there are a lot of game companies, which offer miniatures kits for assembly. The first challenge for the process is related to the correct choice of the best glue. The kits are often made up of various components of different materials; consider them first, before purchasing the glue. Also, try to predict whether you might need the glue with a special nozzle on end for accurate locating of the glue on the surface.
Could you advise the best glue for ABS plastic?
Before pouring the glue for ABS plastic, you should secure that the surfaces are dry and clean. For bonding of ABS plastic, you can use two components epoxies, Polyurethanes, or Structural Acrylics. For the cases, when there are flexible joints, MS polymers are available.
What is the best glue for plastic model airplanes, cars, or rockets?
Before pouring the glue for ABS plastic, you should secure that the surfaces are dry and clean. For bonding of ABS plastic, you can use two components epoxies, Polyurethanes, or Structural Acrylics. For the cases, when there are flexible joints, MS polymers are available.
What is the best glue for plastic model airplanes, cars, or rockets?
If you have to glue a plastic model airplane, car, or rocket, you should not rely upon super glue, as you won’t want to risk the overall design and firmness of the parts’ connections. Testors model glue or Gorilla 2 Part Epoxy could be suitable for your aims.
If there is an excess of glue, how can I remove it?
If you have small details, where it is important to make a dot for dot connections, then it is better to choose the glues with special nozzles. If there are still some places with an excess of glue, then it is possible to clean them with a piece of paper towel.
What should I do before using the glue?
First, cut out the small pieces of the miniature, then check, in they fit together, and then start to glue. Sometimes it is also necessary to clean the surfaces before using glue.