Model Build Guides
01 Assembly Preparation
Upon receiving your kit, please double check to make sure all parts are present and for any damage that may have occurred during delivery - if there are any problems, please reach out and I'll get it sorted for you.
Check the parts over, removing any stray support structures. I do try to remove as many as possible, but some of the finer ones will remain. A pair of fine tweezers, a scalpel blade or a file are great ways to remove any leftover supports.
Check the catalogue page for build details of each model.
I recommend adding your wheelsets at the beginning of the build, using a hair dryer or hot water to soften the resin, which will enable you to pop the wheels in a bit more easily. Again, if an accident occurs at this point, reach out and I'll sort a replacement part!
02 Adhesive Selection
The type of resin or filament used in our kits is best bonded with cyanoacrylate (super glue). Apply glue sparingly to avoid excess squeeze-out, which can obscure fine bolt details and surface textures. I'm a fan of thin super glue that can be wicked into joints if needed.
Use sparingly, and be aware of impacts that it may have on already glued parts.
03 Painting & Priming
Always use a plastic-compatible primer before applying top coats. This ensures even color coverage and helps highlight the fine rivet detail characteristic of our precision railway models. If you're spraying, remember that many fine coats will give you a better finish than few heavy coats. Bear in mind areas where you may find that parts interract with one another, for example bogie pivots, paint wear can occur.
04 Finishing Detailing
The final step involves adding wheels, couplings, and transfers. Some models may also require handrails at this stage. All of my kits are designed to work with Slater's axles unless otherwise specified.