The 10 Best Model Glues
This wiki has been updated 30 times since it was first published in February of 2018. Hobbyists know that having the proper adhesive in their arsenal can make the difference between a flawless finish and a frustrating mistake. Whether you’re working on your first ever project, an advanced build or a simple classroom assignment, you’ll want to check out the model glues on this list. We’ve included options with a range of viscosities that can bond to a wide variety of surfaces. When users buy our independently chosen editorial picks, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Starbond Super Fast
2. Testors Cement
3. Hot Stuff Special T
Editor's Notes
May 08, 2020:
Regardless of if you work with plastics, metal, leather, cork, rubber, or paper, the right adhesive can make or break your build and choosing the wrong one can make for a very frustrating experience. That's why our selections run the gamut, from PVA glue like Lineco pH Neutral for bookbinding and decals to cyanoacrylate options such as Zap-A-Gap, epoxies like Bob Smith Industries Epoxy, and cement glues like Testors Cement. We've also included choices with a variety of setting times, from slow-cure to lightning-fast, with a range of consistencies for filling tiny cracks and making rock hard joints.
While we maintain that Elmer's All-Purpose is still a solid choice for children's crafts and light-duty projects, we felt that this list should feature the newly-added Gorilla Super Gel instead, as it's much more versatile. Its no-run formula makes it suitable for vertical applications, and its fortified impact resistance makes it a great choice for repairing everyday items, as well as detailing precision builds. Be aware that it's not recommended for use on polyethylene or polypropylene plastic, however.
For model airplane kits, you can't go wrong with Beacon Tac and Hot Stuff Special T, the latter of which is suitable for a variety of applications, from repairing damaged areas in granite countertops to assembling bone fragments and dental bridges.
If you're a complete beginner, please approach adhesives with care and caution. Items such as Bob Smith Industries Epoxy can easily melt a plastic cup if you try to mix it in one, thanks to the fact that it generates heat as it sets. There are all sorts of nuances like these you should be aware of before working with certain types of glues, so be sure to do your research and follow safety guidelines including wearing gloves, working in a well-ventilated area away from open flames, and more. And don't forget to store these items in a dry, cool area far away from children, pets, and sources of heat.
Special Honors
TREMGrip Quick Tack While primarily intended for residential construction projects, TREMGrip Quick Tack can be handy for large scale models. Its high initial grab minimizes the need for fasteners and clamps, and its environmentally friendly, solvent-free formulation is low odor and low VOC and resistant to UV light, weather, and aging. tremcosealants.com
4. Loctite Liquid Professional
5. Gorilla Super Gel
6. Beacon Tac
7. Zap-A-Gap
8. Lineco pH Neutral
9. Tamiya Extra Thin
10. Bob Smith Industries Epoxy
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