New to card modelling!!

m57

Mike
Apr 28, 2013
1
0
1
UK
Hi from me. I am new to paper/card modelling.I was just wondering if anyone could help me on which types of paper to use ie: photo paper, printer paper, what paper weight etc,etc. Also which glues to use!! I have bought many glues and all have them seem to have some problems when gluing parts together! I have built plastic/resin kits before and even super detailed them. I live in the UK and have a young 5 year old boy to contend with as well!! Some of the models I have seen on this site and on the internet are mind blowing and this has really got me interested. I am currently building a Millenium Falcon as I am a sci-fi nut. Thanks in anticipation.
 

Rogerio Silva

Active Member
Nov 9, 2012
1,520
11
38
56
Rio de Janeiro - BRAZIL !!!
m57

Welcome, man! You couldn't find a better place for hobbies as Zealot. You'll see that people here always want you to succeed in whatever build you decide to start, and even the Grand Masters are available for some experience exchange.:thumb::cool:
About the paper type and glues, well, it dependes. I can tell you what works for me: usually, I build using 140 -160gsm paper, but sometimes I use 180 and even 240gsm. The thing is: the smaller and more intricated the detail, the lighter the paper. Sounds logical, isn't it? You won't be able to build a detailed, small piece with a thick paper.:p
Now to the glue issue. That usual white glue has done nothing for me.:cry: I couldn't make it work. At all.:curse: Then, I started testing the transparent PVA glue (here in Brazil it's commonly called "cola de isopor" = styrofoam glue). It's alcohol-based and stronger than its white "sister". That did the trick for me.:thumb:
Many people here use wood glue, superglue, and many other glues, so it all comes to how comfortable you'll be using whichever glue you choose.
So, you said you're a sci-fi nut? I can only say one thing to you: WELCOME TO THE CLUB, MAN! You'll see a variety of sci-fi models here, and if you can't find them, well, ask around. If you still can't find it, you can always learn how to model and do it yourself...sign1
That's the beauty about this hobby: you can make your own models, and it's still a bargain to print, cut and glue. Don't believe me? Check out the many building threads here.
A small advice: make sure you go through the rules. The moderators here are great guys, very accessible and willing to help, but they do run a tight ship. Nothing to worry, just obey the rules. They're simple, they're fair, and they're easy.
I think I said too much already. Anyway, one or more moderators will welcome you soon enough, if they hadn't done so while I'm writing this.
Welcome aboard, man, I loved London, and remember: Zealot is special because WE make it so!

Rogério Silva
 

Bhelliom

Member
Jun 20, 2009
197
5
16
Parma Center NY
Hello m57, welcome from me, as well.


Rogerio already addressed the paper weight question, better than I could, since I'm in the States. As for glue, do you have Aleene's Tacky Glue in the UK? Its very much like regular white glue, only with a lower moisture content. It works best for me of the very few glues I've actually tried. I hear good things about UHU glue, but I haven't tried it yet, despite having a tube. It comes in several grades for different purposes. There's plenty of people here who can advise you better on it than me.

Scott K.
 

zathros

*****SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR*****
Staff member
Administrator
Moderator
Apr 5, 2013
13,496
9,548
228
Welcome to the forum m57! Great to have you aboard. I would highly recommend UHU brand glue. I use it a lot. It is very strong, not mess, dries clear, and will not ever yellow after drying. I do recomend people stay away from Superglue because of the build of of cyanide you will experience and it will wreak havoc on your health, and most people never realize that it is cyanoacrylates (SuperGlues) that are causing it. These kinds of glues just aren't necessary.

Get the UHU brands, apply to both surfaces, and touch the surfaces together, then separate, and then attach finally. If you play with two pieces of paper you will see the matrix of UHU glue form between the two pieces as it congeals. It truly is superior, and it is Non-toxic. With a 5 year old around, that is imperative! You can always add strips on the backside to help hold two pieces together. It is common practice and adds strength to the model. :)
 

Rogerio Silva

Active Member
Nov 9, 2012
1,520
11
38
56
Rio de Janeiro - BRAZIL !!!
Get the UHU brands, apply to both surfaces, and touch the surfaces together, then separate, and then attach finally. If you play with two pieces of paper you will see the matrix of UHU glue form between the two pieces as it congeals. It truly is superior, and it is Non-toxic. With a 5 year old around, that is imperative! You can always add strips on the backside to help hold two pieces together. It is common practice and adds strength to the model. :)
Zathros

My good "Mentor", is this what you call UHU glue? Sorry, this site is in Brazilian Portuguese, but your linguistic skills will allow you to understand:twisted:... http://www.sinoart.com.br/product_info.php?products_id=2981&osCsid=9gojamet3rm382ephj359k56v5
Thanks in advance!

Rogério
 

zathros

*****SENIOR ADMINISTRATOR*****
Staff member
Administrator
Moderator
Apr 5, 2013
13,496
9,548
228
Yes, I can't get that tube though, and I think that would be a great way to buy it. Either way, that is the brand. :)