Gates

The gate is the area where the resin is poured into the mould. This is where you will find most of your excess resin. A gate can appear in different forms, depending on the detail and shape of the model. The most common are V shapes that are on the side of a detailed or odd shaped component or a large rectangle going onto a squared component. These will need removing and may take some effort with the larger model kits. With smaller components, a pair of clippers and a file should suffice. With your clippers remove the gate at a point above where it joins the component. Don't use the clippers next to the actual component shape. This is because clippers are quite a savage tool and often damage the areas on either side of where you cut. If you've ever tried to cut a metal figure in half with a pair of clippers you'll know exactly what I mean. After clipping most of it away use a file to remove the last of the gate and to ensure a smooth finish. With larger components, the gate will often be too big to remove with a pair of clippers. In this case it is best to use a saw. Unlike the clippers this can be done as close to the model as you like. It's usually best to do it slightly away from the join though just to make sure that any deviation in your cutting line doesn't affect the model. Again after the gate has been removed, use a file to ensure a smooth finish to your model.

Vents

Vents are small holes cut into the mould that allows air to escape when the resin is poured in. These are recognisable as thin pieces of resin leading away from the model. These are removed in the same manner as the Gates above but are usually far easier.

Flash

Flash can be formed in two ways. The first is deliberate. Thin gaps in the mould allow resin to flow into other parts in the mould without filling a gap. For example, a cockpit canopy or a window, large gaps are needed between the frame of the windows and to allow that gap the mould only has a very small gap for the resin to flow through. This leaves a thin membrane between the larger parts of the component. The second way flash is formed is when it leaks slightly between the two layers of the mould. This again leaves a thin membrane that usually fans out from the component. In both cases flash is easily removed with a knife and then a quick scrape with a knife or file will remove any last traces of the flash.

Warpage

Warpage can easily occur with thin components as thin resin components are susceptible to temperature just after casting. To get a warped piece into the right shape (or even to just reshape a piece like a tail or arm.) just immerse it in hot water and gently bend it. With a larger piece it is best to do this in stages. Bend it a little, allow it to settle and repeat until it is in the correct shape. Larger pieces may also require longer immersion to soften. If you don't want to use hot water then a hair dryer should give the same results, just don't let the piece get too hot (or blow away!). Do not heat resin with any kind of flame.