Filling with white glue--having trouble

Tools, Techniques, and Reference Materials Techniques
1

In both the tips section of FSM and at least one of the bench reviews, I’ve seen reference to the following filling technique:

  1. Fill the gap with white glue or Micro Kristal Klear

  2. Let dry.

  3. Wipe away the excess with a damp cloth or Q-Tip.

Here’s the problem: I’ve tried this with two brands of white glue (one of which was Elmer’s) and Testor’s window and clear parts liquid. In all three cases, the damp Q-Tip either didn’t make a dent or carried most of the glue away, leaving me with either a lump or the same gap I began with.

Anybody know what I’m doing wrong?

2

Don’t let the glue dry completely. You want it to set well enough to stay where you want it, but still soft enough to wipe away. I find the best approach is to try to keep it only where you want it, not on adjacent surfaces. Fill the area slightly “proud,” let set partially, and then wipe the glue surface flush with the adjacent surfaces.

The only places I use this technique is around clear parts or in areas where CA or putty would be too difficult to apply and sand.

Also give Sobo craft glue a try. It seems to work better than any of the others I’ve tried (much better than Elmer’s, IMHO.)

3

Thanks!

4

You can’t let the Glue dry completely. Let it set up, but wipe it down while it is still a slightly milky color. If it’s dried clear, it’s too late. You can still remove it with water & try again until you get the fill you want however. I only use it for attaching canopies & have found Microscale Micro Kristal Klear to be my favorite for this purpose.

Regards, Rick