N Gauge Forum

Apologies if this has been asked before on here, my excuse is that Google didn't seem to find it if it has.
What is the best glue to stick N Gauge figures onto a layout ?
I have tried UHU and super glue, but with both the figures frequently topple over before the glue sets and it's very frustrating !
Basically it's onto painted surfaces mainly, possibly also onto plastic.

A dab of blue tac / blacktack / tacky wax
Makes removing figures easier.

Less messier than copydex. I prefer using a cocktail stick to place a bit of superglue

Chris

I have always used superglue, holding the figures with tweezers for a few seconds to allow the adhesive to grab.

Depends how permanently you want to secure them?

Traditionally I used to use PVA, but since I've been using static grass I've found the base layer glue for that works well for figures as it dries more quickly with a slightly rubbery result.

I do use superglue on occasion but it's not my favourite as it can fail over time.

For more temporary positioning the Copydex or Tacky-wax.

i use PVA for most things now.  Just let it go off for a few mins before sticking your figures down.  Its very forgiving if you get it wrong at first. Dries clear.

Thanks you all for your advice.
I have just been experimenting with wood glue / PVA, leaving it 5 min to become tacky before placing the figures on the layout. That seemed to work reasonably well. Certainly, for me, better than UHU or superglue !

Don't forget double-sided sticky tape

I use Deluxe 'Glue and Glaze' which is a PVA type glue, but gets tacky much quicker than the usual PVA glues.

If you use superglue, try the gel version; it is more tacky than the thin type when drying, giving a bit more grab whilst drying.

Martyn

The key for a quick set is superglue and moisture, so small drop of glue where you want the figure to go and a bit of water on the part of figure to be glued down. Super glue likes moist surfaces hence why it sticks your fingers together so much better than the kit. So a drop of water on the back of your hand will do the trick. Spot of glue, dip the figure into water on your hand and into the glue hold for a few seconds should be good to go. You can use this trick during assembly of kits but you lose time to make adjustments.

In a lot of cases, no matter what the glue or the subject, the missing magic ingredient is a bit of patience...  ;)

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There's like a million brands of superglue! For example, the stuff I buy here in Australia probably isn't available anywhere else.

The brand is irrelevant really, as it's all made of the same nasty stuff. Just look for a tube that says superglue gel. :thumbsup:

@beauharlan

As Bealman says, there are numerous brands available.

In the UK, branded makes include Bostik, Loctite, and B+Q own brand. There are many more, and can often be found in the hardware aisle in major supermarkets. In a model shop, I think Zap-a-gap do one, and Delux roket cyano is another. There are probably more.

Just make sure you get the gel version rather than the normal free flow one.

And, if sticking people, as PLD says, the biggest thing is patience and a steady hand.

Good luck.

Martyn

Quote from: beauharlan on August 09, 2024, 05:33:42 AM

Quote from: martyn on August 02, 2024, 09:02:41 AMIf you use superglue, try the gel version; it is more tacky than the thin type when drying, giving a bit more grab whilst drying.

Martyn

Can you give me some product names? I'm interested in this gel.

I use Zap Gel PT-26 for all my superglue needs as it bonds all materials. It is sold on ebay and amazon either as jewellery glue, hobby glue or fly fishing glue. As I said a bit of moisture on one part helps and as others have said patience.