Whenever I glue on clear parts for planes, such as canopies, I get glue smudge on the part. I use white glue but can’t seem to get the canopy or window in place without getting glue on it. Any tips would be appreciated. Do people mask the clear parts before gluing?
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There’s really no trick to it,small amounts of glue in the right place,and careful placement,steady hands.I apply it with a pin or toothpick
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Since your using white glue, any smudges can be easily removed with water and a Q-tip. Make sure both of your mating surfaces are free of any oils. I prefer to lightly sand both surfaces, and clean them prior to glueing. This gives you the best chance of a stronger bond. I attach all my clear parts prior to primer and paint.
I mostly use tape to mask my canopies . If I have the chance, I will use liquid mask. Somewhat easier to remove.
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What I do is glue the front screen on using Tamiya extra thin but wipe away most of the glue and go easy.
I always apply mask first.
If the kit has a spare main canopy I use that as a mask and secure it with PVA,this is easily removed after painting.
I then attach main canopy with Tamiya normal glue with tooth pick for a stronger bond.
Obviously don’t use CA glue.
I use tack-it II, a thin liquid fast drying solvent glue applied with a good quality 3/8 long natural hair paintbrush.
The glue is similar to the original micro-weld fast drying liquid solvent glue.
You place the canopy and dip the brush in the glue, touching it lightly along the bottom edge, the capillary action draws the solvent along the seam about 1/8 to 1/2 inch.
I use this typ of glue on all polystyrene models, you will need to be careful and not drip it anywhere on the kit you don’t want it because it will tear up the intended clear areas of a canopy and just ruin molded details quickly.
Practice on non clear part subassembly build-ups 1st and go from there and with every solvent based paint or glue…wear the blue or black surgical gloves to keep your hands clean.
I use this clear stuff by Testors that makes clear parts to attach after masking. IF I get a smudge from some glue or the like and it’s not too bad, I’ll start the sanding process like I do for canopy seams.
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I had the same problem for years until I found this glue,it is the best for clear plastic windows and canopies AK crystal magic glue
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It also helps to protect the clear plastic with a hard clear finish. Classically Future floor “wax”, actually a clear acrylic, works well if you can find it. There are modern alternatives. The clear coat protects against scratching and makes it easier to clean off such glue smudges.
You can also handle the canopy using a tacky stick rather than your fingers. These are little sticks with a knob of wax on the end.