FineScale Modeler: How to fill gaps and seams with putty on plastic scale models

We've all built a model and noticed a gap or seam that needs to be filled. In this installment of Scale Model Basics, you'll learn how to fill a seam or gap in a plastic scale model with putty--both solvent- and water-based types--and superglue. You'll also find out how long it takes for each method to dry and how to smooth them when finished drying.

00:22 Types of putty
00:40 Solvent-based putty
01:28 Water-based putty
02:55 Drying time and cleanup
04:26 Filling gaps with superglue
05:55 Advantages and disadvantages of superglue
06:22 Sanding advice

For more about sanding your scale plastic model, click the link:

Thanks for watching!

[PlasticImaginationWorkshop]

Another well done video, thanks. Have a great day.

[csjames]

When I fill a seam, I always apply tape on either side of the seam before applying the putty. In that way, you are cleaning up the smallest area possible. By applying the Tamiya putty as shown, excessive application of the putty to areas outside the seam can lead to loss of details when sanding and cleaning up.

[spinster]

ever since I switched to vallejos plastic putty ive found my models look 10x better, having not to sand has been one of the best things ever and means i dont ever have to rescribe the panel lines, it literally saves me hours of work

[skipd]

Found your channel in my recommendation screen. Just started making models again after 40yrs. Had to stop watch channels about guys catching wives cheating. Have to watch relaxing hobbies again so I'm a new subscriber

[jf]

Easy method with putty is to swab excess up with damp Q-tip after you putty the seam. Greatly speeds up the process.

[terrydactyl]

Great video as usual. As an Australian I can hear a hint of our (or NZ) accent in your speech!

[ChadTruss]

Another tip for solvent based putties. I like that Tamiya grey solvent putty, but it's a little on the thick side sometimes.

You can thin it with lacquer thinner, or I like to use lacquer primer. Mix just a little in and it will make the putty a little easier to spread.

[mitachoo]

I’m cracking up over here . . . I found this video when searching for tips on filling gaps, and BOOM . . . the first thing I see is the HUGE Enterprise in the background (I built that one too!), and the Space 1999 ship (probably getting it for Xmas).

I recently started building models again after a 40 year hiatus. Looking forward to digesting your videos!

[goratgo]

Not to be negative here, just good to keep in mind when using filler types;
solvent based = shrinkage since drying action is solvent evaporation.
Vallejo water based = dries with elasticity so unsandable -
use only in wingroot as Aaron shows first time!
Superglue = Apply only in small amounts that can be sanded soon after, repeat...
Good advantage is no shrinkage and adds strength.

[SchindlersFist]

Great instructions for someone just getting into model building. Thanks a ton!

[Moshavnik]

I like to use CA mixed with acrylic powder for larger and uneven gaps. The sanding process is super controllable and the filler doesn’t shrink or expand and very stable so it doesn’t crumble.

[therebeginner]

Thanks a lot. As a beginner, I have learned a lot watching your short and very didactic tutorials. Now, I am waiting to get my first issue of the magazine in the mailbox ;)

[bobkrulish]

Thank you so much for another great video. I was wondering what the name of the glue applicator tool is and where I might find it...thanks again!

[michaelcooke]

Very nice tutorial. Great tips. Thanks for sharing.

[lorimcquinn]

I'm surprise about the lack of comments regarding the Perfect Products Putty. Lying on your bench although didn't use or mention. They indicate this product is non-toxic on their videos, a huge asset to model building inside the shop.

[TylerProvick]

Nice stuff. Have you experimented with CA Glue + filler like baking soda/talc/marble powder? It is much thicker than even thick glue but is easier to sand when hard. It is also less brittle.

[tomassoejakto]

Thanks for the demo video. What do you think about liquid putty made from sprue bits melted with plastic cement?

[scruffeone]

This is really great information, however, I struggle with seams where the plastic doesnt quite line up. one side is lower or higher than the other. Can you go over how to make sure that the seams look even when completed?

[itshekhar]

Please suggest an air compressor and paintbrush for a beginner.

[joseaugusto-vdvg]

En i use Putty i do. Use sanded i use acetona and it a piece of tissue .i passe in the the plástico and it work very fine.🙂