Best putty and solvent?

General Discussion General Modeling Discussion
1

Hi there!

I’m back to modelling after about a 30 year hiatus. My skills are still decent, but I’m looking for something better than what I find at my local not-really-for-modelling hobby shop. Specifically, I’ve been using Testors decal solvent and Testors Contour Putty. Neither one seems to really be doing the job. The solvent doesn’t really pull the decal down around details, and the putty is horrendous, at least, with the skill I’m using. I’m putting down this dry powder putty and sanding it, and it comes out as very obviously being there. It just doesn’t seem to sand to a decent finish well enough.

So, what are the solvent and putty that I should be using? Or do I already use what’s best?

Many thanks!

2

I try not to use decal solution, but when I do I like the various Microscale products. Or, for general use on a decal that set well, diluted vinegar.

Putty is another matter. There is a wide variety of opinions on this. Which has told me that it MOSTLY matters on technique.

I got away from Squadron Green because it needs to be thinned to work well.

I like Tamiya Gray but it’s way pricey.

Like stretching sprue, using CA is way above my skill level.

My favorite now is Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty.

3

tamiya , markfit strong , really suck’s it down . for decal solution

like G said , tamiya gray is one of the best but a bit pricey , vallejo acrylic putty is really good for small gap’s , not so great on large one’s

4

I use Micro set and Micro sol for decals,for tough ones I use Solvaset.

For seams I have been using Mr Surfacer 500

5

There is a long thread current on puttys in the Techniques forum in the Tools, Techniques and Reference Materials area of the FSM forums right now. Interesting thread- take a look.

6

The trouble is Don, the thread is probably so old and not stickied, , no new member is gonna search countless pages for that thread.

7

Thanks guys, that’s a big help. I’m building a 1/72 scale Me-262 that was donated to the local hobby shop, actually bought in 1972! It’s actually really well fit, but it has some issues joining the wings to the fuselage.

Thanks much for the info on the putty and solvent!