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View Full Version : Styrene for the beginner


Dakta
08-12-2009, 08:51 AM
Well... I've been looking around and have tried to compile a list of styrene tools and techniques for the beginner (myself included). Here's what I have so far, and if anyone here with experience has any suggestions, I'll add to the list:

Tools/materials:

1.) Polystyrene plastic, various shapes.

2.) Glue, most advised is Tenax-7 R.

3.) Pipette Tool/Hypo-Type Solvent applicator, most advised is a Flex I File Touch-N-Flow applicator, available here: http://www.houseofhobbies.com/flifitonflce.html, although I found this at a local plastics specialty store (TAP Plastics, all over the West Coast).

4.) Cutting tool, most used is an X-Acto or other hobby knife.

5.) Metal rule, for use as a cutting guide. Save a little space and invest in a metal ruler.

6.) Small carpenter's Square, for, well making things square.

7.) Glass surface, for gluing on. If you spill a little, it doesn't damage the glass, and can be scraped off when dry.

8.) Dremel Tool, optional?

9.) Tube/sheet bender, optional? McMaster-Carr has some nice small ones here: http://www.mcmaster.com/#benders/=3477o5

10.) Sanding supplies, various.

11.) Files, various.

12.) Filler. Some people use Bondo or other name brand fillers, others use a custom mix of styrene bits and glue.

13.)

Information/Tutorials:

-http://www.starshipmodeler.com/tech/aj_scratch.htm Information nicely done up by a Star-Trek modeler.

-http://www.automotiveforums.com/t546684.html Little tutorial by a scale car modeler.