Chloe Zhang
Pinning is a technique used to increase the security of parts attached to plastic models. It is particularly useful for models with small connection points that are at risk of being snapped off when bumped. Pinning can also be used to strengthen joins between dissimilar components, such as metal and plastic. The process of pinning involves drilling holes into the components and inserting pins, such as metal paper clips or brass rods, to create a stronger join. The use of superglue or plastic glue is also important in the pinning process, as it helps to fill gaps and create a stronger bond between the parts. Pinning can be a creative way to add more resistance to breaking and give a more animated real-life look to plastic models.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to pin | When a model looks like it will break easily, or has small connection points that are at risk of being snapped off |
| When a model has complicated conversions, making it difficult to judge pin locations | |
| When working with large metal models, or human-sized figures made from metal | |
| When working with dynamically posed figures that come in multiple parts | |
| When there is a risk of damaging the model by drilling or gluing | |
| When the model is large, or has heavy parts | |
| Types of glue | Plastic cement, super glue, plastic glue, epoxy, CA glue |
| Types of pins | Paper clips, brass rods, metal wire, plastic pins |
| Tools | Hand drill, pin vice, cutter, knife |
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right glue
When it comes to choosing the right glue for plastic models, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is crucial to use the correct type of glue for the specific material you are working with. Different glues are designed for different purposes, such as gluing plastic, wood, or metal, and using the wrong type can result in a weak bond or failure to adhere. For example, glues designed specifically for plastic may not work on materials like laser-cut wood. Therefore, always check that the glue you choose is suitable for the material of your model.
Another consideration is the working time and setting time of the glue. Some glues, like fast-setting glues, can provide quick results, but they may not always be dependable and can sometimes fail to hold. On the other hand, glues with longer working times, such as View Glue, allow for adjustments and manoeuvring of parts before the glue sets completely. This can be advantageous if you need to make final tweaks to your model.
The type of bond you want to achieve is also important. Some glues, like liquid cements and cyanoacrylate (CA) or super glues, use capillary action to flow into seams and gaps, creating a weld-like bond. These glues are often used for bonding unlike materials, such as metal to resin or styrene. However, CA glues may not be suitable for materials like styrene plastic, commonly found in injection-molded kits, as they may not provide the desired weld bond. Instead, glues specifically formulated for styrene, such as Testor's tube glue, liquid glue, and liquid cement, or Tamiya's Extra Thin, are recommended.
If you're working with kits that include materials like Greyboard Card, an all-purpose gel-type glue is a good option. This type of glue can be spread thinly and evenly onto surfaces and allows for adjustments before drying without leaving creases or wrinkles. Deluxe Materials Roket Card Glue is another versatile option that can bond card, wood, laser board, and some plastics. It has a good working time and a fast setting time, making it ideal for speedy assembly.
Lastly, consider the application method that works best for your project. Some glues come with fine-tipped applicators or long applicator tips, allowing for precise application in tight corners and small seams. Others may require the use of a brush for application, and you may need to adjust the brush size to suit the glue and your project's needs.
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Drilling the holes
Prepare the Components
Before you begin drilling, it's important to clean and prepare the components that will be joined. Remove any flash, debris, or mould lines from the surfaces to ensure a smooth fit. Filing the surfaces can help level them and make the drilling process easier. If you're working with components that have rounded locating lugs, file the ends flat to prevent the drill bit from slipping.
Choose the Right Tools
Select the appropriate drill bits designed specifically for drilling into plastic. The type of plastic you're working with will determine the specific techniques and tools required. For example, different plastics like acrylic, PVC, polyethylene, and polypropylene require unique techniques and drill bits. Using the correct drill bits will help you achieve clean and precise holes without damaging the plastic.
Secure the Components
Clamp or vise the plastic components firmly in place before drilling. This step is crucial to prevent the components from moving during the drilling process and ensure accurate hole placement. Make sure you also wear the necessary safety gear, including eye protection and respiratory protection if there is a risk of dust or fumes.
Drill Pilot Holes
With your drilling surface prepared and secured, it's time to start drilling. Begin by drilling shallow pilot holes in the designated areas. Drill slowly and with frequent checks to ensure you're maintaining the correct angle and depth. This is especially important when drilling into plastic, as you want to avoid damaging the model or drilling too far and puncturing the opposite side.
Gauge the Depth
When drilling into two separate components, such as metal and plastic, it's essential to gauge the depth of your drill bit. One method is to measure the distance between your fingernail and the drill tip and then superimpose that measurement onto the model at the drilling angle. This will help you understand how deep you've drilled into the second component. Drilling a little further can provide maximum strength to the joint.
Mark the Opposite Component
After drilling the pilot holes and gauging the depth, you can use the drilled component to mark the opposite component for drilling. Firmly press the two components together, and you'll see a small indentation on the unmarked component where the pin has pushed against it. This marks the spot where you need to drill to achieve a good join. Try to drill at the same angle as the pin and be cautious not to drill too deeply.
Finalize the Joint
Once you've drilled the holes in both components, you can finalize the joint. Dry fit the brass rod into the holes, apply a drop of superglue, and insert the rod to secure the connection. You can then snip off any excess rod, leaving about a millimetre showing. This process will provide strength and stability to the joint, ensuring your plastic model remains intact.
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Using a pin vice
A pin vice is a small hand drill used for drilling holes into models. They are perfect for drilling pilot holes, assembling miniatures, and creating intricate designs. They can be used on a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, metal, and resin.
To use a pin vice for pinning parts of plastic models, first, prepare the figure by cleaning any flash and mould lines off the figure and then dry-fitting the figure to check that all the parts go together smoothly. Next, find a pin and a suitable drill bit. An ordinary metal paper clip can be used as a pin, and the right size drill bit can be determined by lining the paper clip up with prospective drill bits until you find a match. It is important to note that a slightly larger drill bit is acceptable as the superglue will fill in the space around the pin.
After selecting the appropriate drill bit, it is time to drill the holes. The effort required for drilling can vary depending on the hardness of the material being drilled. Once the holes are drilled, cut and insert the pin. Use a pair of clippers to cut off a short length of the paper clip, and then insert the pin without gluing to ensure a proper fit. If the pin is too small, cut a new one; if it's too long, deepen one of the holes until it fits snugly.
Finally, glue the pin into place. Apply superglue to the pin and the area around it, and then put the pieces together, leaving it to dry. With these steps, you can effectively use a pin vice to pin parts of plastic models, creating secure and precise connections.
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Gauging the depth
First, it is important to select the appropriate tools for the job. A hand drill or hobby drill is recommended for smaller models, while a motorized drill can be used for larger models. Additionally, ensure you have the correct size drill bits and corresponding solid brass rods or metal paper clips for pinning.
When drilling, it is crucial to go slow and frequently check the angle and depth of your drilling. One technique is to use the measuring trick: find the distance between your fingernail and the drill tip, then superimpose the drill bit over the model at the drilling angle. This will indicate how deep you have drilled into the second component.
For dissimilar components like metal and plastic, it is relatively easier to gauge the depth as you will start to see plastic swarf, indicating that you have reached the second component. At this point, it is crucial to be extra careful.
Another method to mark the drilling spot is to paint a small blob of paint on the pin and gently press the components together. The paint will leave a mark, indicating where to drill on the opposite piece.
Finally, when drilling, it is important to avoid applying excessive force, especially when dealing with very small diameters. The pin gauge should be dropped in freely, guided gently if necessary, rather than forced through the hole.
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Using paint to mark the spot
First, decide where you want the pin to go on your miniature model. This could be a specific joint or area that needs reinforcement. Place a small dot of paint on the bottom of your miniature at the spot where you want to drill. You can use any type of paint that is visible and won't dry too quickly, as you'll need time to work with it.
Next, before the paint dries, gently press the miniature into place on the base or surface where you want it to be attached. The paint will transfer, leaving a mark on the base, indicating the exact spot where you need to drill. This ensures that your miniature and base are aligned correctly when assembled.
Now, carefully remove the miniature from the base. You should be left with a paint mark on the base. This is your "X marks the spot" for drilling. You can also use this method to mark the corresponding spot on the miniature itself. Simply apply a small blob of paint to the pin and gently press the components together. The paint will transfer to the opposite piece, marking the drilling spot.
Finally, use the marked spots as your guide for drilling. Drill at the correct angle, taking your time to ensure precision. Remember to choose the appropriate drill bit size and be cautious when working with soft plastic to avoid melting the material.
By using paint to mark the spot, you can achieve accurate drilling and pinning, resulting in a stronger and more precise assembly of your plastic models.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a small hand drill, a pin vice, a cutter, super glue, and pins. You can use paper clips, florists wire, or brass rods as pins.
Clean any flash and debris from the components to be joined. File the surface to level it and aid the drilling process. Dry fit the components and check that they fit together smoothly.
Line up the pin and press it where you want it, then drill where the pin makes a mark. Alternatively, put a bit of paint around the hole, press the parts together, and drill where the painted ring is.
When drilling into dissimilar components, like metal and plastic, you will know you have reached the second component when you start seeing plastic swarf. Use the measuring trick described above to gauge how deep you have drilled.
Super glue is a good option for pinning plastic models. Plastic glue is also recommended, as it fuses the plastic together.
