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TOOLS FOR MODELLING

The tools you will need for modelling depend on what level of project you are undertaking. Some tools are essential, no matter what you're making. It's impossible to manage without a modelling knife, for instance. To help you decide what you really need, the tools on this page are the ones we consider to be essential, and you will find a link to information about other, slightly more specialist, tools at the bottom of the page.

Most projects on this website tell you what tools and equipment you'll need, so you can check you've got everything before you start.

All these items can be purchase from Games Workshop and hobby, toy and art stores.

MODELLING KNIFE & CUTTING MAT

Modelling knives are used for removing tiny pieces of excess metal or "flash" from models prior to painting. Be very careful when you are using a modelling knife; the best kind to use is the type with a rectractable blade that be withdrawn when the knife is not in use. Clippers are often a safer option, and are perfectly serviceable for cleaning up metal models, and snipping plastic models from their sprues. The Citadel Modelling set includes a safety knife

Be very careful when using knives, they can be dangerous. Please read these safety guidelines

Cutting mat: Use one of these thick plastic mats to protect the work surface when you're cutting, and as a solid base for any modelling work.

CLIPPERS

Also known as side cutters. Clippers are great for snipping off small bits of metal, and removing plastic models from their sprue. As you can guess from their name, they're also useful for cutting wire. It's not a good idea to use scissors for cutting wire, as you'll spoil the blades, and they're not very good at it anyway.

GLUE

You will need three types of glue for modelling:

• PVA (for basing, and general modelling and scenery work)
• Plastic glue, also known as liquid polystyrene cement (for gluing plastic to plastic)
• Superglue (for gluing metal to metal, and metal to plastic)

Glue can be dangerous. Please read these safety guidelines

FILES

Modelling files are used for cleaning mould lines off metal models, smoothing the cut edges of plastic models, and generally tidying up rough surfaces.

STEEL RULE

Rulers are useful for drawing lines and measuring when you're making card buildings. To obtain a perfect straight cut, place the rule on the line and cut down the side of it with a knife, using the edge of the steel rule as a guide. If you're cutting through thick material, it's safer to use several light cuts than trying to press down hard and do it all in one go. You can't use a wooden or plastic ruler for this purpose, as the knife will shave the edge off them.

PLIERS

Handy when you're using wire, and for gently bending metal models. When adjusting the pose of models with pliers, it's a good idea to wrap masking tape round the jaws first, or you might damage the metal.

MORE TOOLS

With the tools listed above, you should be able to tackle all but the most complex hobby projects. However, if you're feeling ambitious, and have the money to spare, there are other more specialist tools that will come in handy.

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