Omar Khalid
Filling holes in plastic models can be done using a variety of materials and methods. The type of filler used will depend on the availability of materials and the experience of the person repairing the model. Some common methods include using sheet plastic plus liquid filler, superglue (CA) and baking soda, two-part epoxy adhesives, and putties such as Perfect Plastic Putty or Mr. Surfacer. When filling holes, it is recommended to work from the back or reverse side to achieve a clean and smooth repair.
Characteristics and their Values
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Filler | Sheet plastic, Superglue (CA) + baking soda, Epoxy adhesives, Sprue Goo, Green stuff, White stuff, Water-based pastes, Mr Surfacer 500, 3M Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty, Plastic filler putty |
| Technique | Work from the back/reverse side, cover the hole from the front, fill the hole from the rear, peel/remove the cover once cool |
| Considerations | Suitable filler material that matches in colour, getting the surface finish to match the item, test filler on an inconspicuous area first |
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What You'll Learn
Work from the back/reverse side
Working from the back or reverse side is a recommended approach when repairing cracks or holes in plastic items. This method helps to ensure a "clean" repair, with minimal touch-ups required on the front-facing side.
To work from the back or reverse side, start by covering the hole on the front side of the model with a piece of card stock or foil. This will prevent the filler material from simply falling through the hole. Next, fill the hole from the rear, using your chosen filler material. Allow the filler to dry or cool down, then carefully remove the card stock or foil from the front side.
This technique results in a smooth and clean repair on the front-facing side, which often requires little to no additional work. However, one challenge with this method is finding a suitable filler material that matches the colour and finish of the model.
When working from the back or reverse side, it is important to use a filler that can be sanded and shaped once it has dried. This will allow you to create a seamless repair that blends in with the surrounding plastic.
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Superglue and baking soda
Filling holes in plastic models can be done in various ways, one of which is using a combination of cyanoacrylate adhesive (super glue) and baking soda. This method creates a quick and inexpensive fix for holes in plastic models, although it may need to be reapplied every one to two years.
To start, ensure that the plastic model is clean and free of any dirt, dust, oil, or debris. Use soap and water or rubbing alcohol for this step. Next, use medium-grit sandpaper to lightly roughen the plastic around the hole, creating a better surface for the filler material to adhere to. Wipe away any dust with a dry cloth.
Now, you are ready to begin filling the hole. For small holes, less than half an inch wide, start by applying a small amount of super glue directly into the hole. Quickly sprinkle on some baking soda and watch as it bubbles and hardens instantly. The mixture may get hot. You can continue adding thin alternating layers of glue and baking soda until the hole is completely filled.
For holes larger than half an inch, a different method is recommended, as this process may not be as effective for larger holes. Instead, a plastic welding tool can be used to melt and fuse the plastic together for a strong repair.
Once the hole is filled with the super glue and baking soda mixture, allow several hours for it to fully cure before sanding or handling excessively. You can lightly sand the filled area to smooth it out and improve adhesion, but be careful not to over-sand, as this can damage the surrounding plastic.
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Sheet plastic and liquid filler
Filling holes in plastic models can be done in a variety of ways. One method that is suitable for large gaps in plastic models is using sheet plastic and liquid filler.
This method involves mixing sheet plastic with a liquid filler, such as superglue (also known as CA glue or cyanoacrylate adhesive) and baking soda. The mixture should be in a 1:1 ratio, using medium viscosity CA glue. It should be applied to the hole and will dry quickly, ready for sanding. It is important to note that this mixture should not be left to cure for 24 hours, as it will become harder than the plastic and will be less sandable. This method does not cause shrinkage, and it is easy to cut new panel lines into the filled area.
For smaller gaps, a mixture of superglue and baking soda (or baby powder) can be used. This creates a quick, inexpensive fix, but may need to be reapplied every 1-2 years. For deeper or wider panel lines, a shrinking filler like Perfect Plastic Putty can be beneficial.
When filling holes in plastic, it is important to use a filler material that matches the colour of the plastic model for a nearly invisible repair. Thin layers should be applied to prevent issues like cracking, and proper curing times should be followed before sanding or handling the filler. Priming and painting the repair can also help achieve a perfect colour match.
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Water-based pastes
Filling gaps and holes in plastic models can be done with a variety of materials. Water-based pastes, such as Vallejo Plastic Putty or Perfect Plastic Putty, are ideal for filling small gaps and holes in plastic models. Vallejo Plastic Putty is a thin, white paste that comes in a 20ml metal tube or plastic bottle. It is similar to Tamiya Putty in its ability to fill gaps across plastic and resin surfaces, but differs in that it is water-based.
Vallejo Plastic Putty is highly regarded among scratch builders and modellers, as it is easy to work with and apply to small gaps and holes. However, due to its thin consistency, it may not be suitable for filling large gaps without the addition of bridging materials.
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Epoxy adhesives
Before using epoxy to fill holes in plastic models, it is important to select the right type of epoxy for the job. Many epoxy systems are designed to work on specific types of plastics, such as polyester, styrene, ABS, polycarbonate, and PVC. Using the correct epoxy system and following the instructions will ensure a successful and durable bond. It is also important to note that not all epoxy adhesives are suitable for use on plastics, and some may cause damage or discolouration. For best results, use an epoxy formulated specifically for plastic, such as Loctite Epoxy Plastic Bonder or 3M EC2216 Epoxy.
To fill holes in plastic models using epoxy, start by preparing the surface. Clean the area surrounding the hole with soap and water or rubbing alcohol to remove any dirt, dust, oil, or debris. Next, use medium-grit sandpaper to lightly roughen the plastic around the hole, which will help the epoxy adhere better. Wipe away any plastic dust with a dry cloth. You can also use a razor blade to trim away any loose flaps around the hole.
Once the surface is prepared, mix the epoxy resin and hardener following the package directions. For a two-part epoxy, use equal parts of each component and mix them together thoroughly. Wear disposable gloves when working with epoxy to avoid skin irritation. After mixing, use a plastic applicator or toothpick to apply the epoxy over the hole, filling it completely.
If using a mesh fiberglass patch, cut the fiberglass 1 inch (2.5 cm) larger than the hole on each side to ensure full coverage. Layer the epoxy on one side of the mesh and press it onto the hole, then paint another layer of epoxy over the fiberglass. Spread it over the part of the mesh that covers the hole, using just enough epoxy to hide the mesh without creating clumps. Allow the epoxy to dry for at least 16-24 hours before handling or sanding.
After the epoxy has cured, you can sand it down to achieve a smooth finish. Use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface, finishing with a plastic polish compound if desired. Epoxy can also be shaped, painted, or refinished according to your specific needs.
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Frequently asked questions
Epoxy putties are the best option for filling gaps in plastic models. You can also cut up sprues and dissolve them in something like Tamiya Extra Thin cement to make your own filler.
Some alternatives include green stuff or white stuff, water-based pastes, Mr Surfacer 500, sheet plastic plus liquid filler, and superglue (CA) plus baking soda.
Mix the superglue and baking soda in a 1:1 ratio using medium viscosity CA and apply. It dries quickly and is ready to sand. Do not let it cure for 24 hours as it becomes harder to sand.
It is recommended to work from the back/reverse side of the model and use something on the front side to keep the melted plastic from going through the hole. Card stock or foil can be used to cover the hole from the front, and then once the filler is applied from the back, it can be peeled off, resulting in a clean, smooth repair.
