There are many books and step-by-step guides telling modellers the best ways of working with metal or plastic kits, however there are very few explaining how to work with resin kits. Unsurprisingly, with Forge World making resin kits, we get lots of questions on how to work with them. This article will run you through the basic techniques and methods involved with resin kit modelling.

If you need extra help. We are always happy to help you with your Forge World models. We can offer advice on assembly techniques or painting enquiries. If you have any queries or problems, don't hesitate to contact us

Tools

Most of the following tools are available from your local Games Workshop store or any good modelling store. When using tools please make sure to read and follow the manufacturers guide lines. Many tools can be dangerous and should be used with care.

Craft Knife

Recent governmental legislation in some parts of the world has made it increasingly difficult to obtain good craft knives, but nonetheless you are going to need one. If you only buy one tool, make it a good knife - it will be necessary for cleaning up castings prior to assembly. It is also worth buying a proper cutting mat to use with the knife so that you can avoid cutting directly onto your work surface (or dining room table!).

Clippers

Clippers are useful for removing pieces of plastic/metal/resin that are too large to safely remove with a knife. They are also faster and easier to use than a saw so make a good middle ground tool.

Saw

There are many types of saw. The most useful to you when modelling will be a jeweller's saw and/or a razor saw. A jeweller's saw gives very fine cuts but the blades are quite fragile. A razor saw is more substantial but won't give as fine a cut. Both are far more suitable than a Junior Hacksaw, which I have seen in people's modelling kits.

Drill or Pin Vice

You will need one of these if you want to drill holes in your components. This is usually only necessary if you want to add strength to a join with large and/or heavy components by pinning them with metal rod.

Files & Sand Paper

After a knife, a set of files is the most useful part of your tool kit - used for cleaning and smoothing castings and filing pieces 'to fit' where necessary. Files come in different profiles - flat, round, half-round, etc, and it is a good idea to have a selection. Sand paper or sanding pads are also useful for sanding larger areas.

Variable Speed Rotary Tool (Dremel, Minicraft, etc)

This can be used any time you need to sand, file or cut something and will greatly increase the speed of those tasks. It is however a tool for the experienced modeller and should be used with care.

Glue

You do not need any special form of glue to assemble your resin kit. Standard modelling super glue works just fine.

Dust Mask

When filing or sanding resin components please make sure to wear a face mask. Like any fine dust, breathing resin dust is not particularly good for you.