Resin Model Care & Preparation

A little preparation helps bring out the best in your miniature.

Our resin models capture fine details in clothing, faces, equipment and scenery. Before painting, they may need a little cleaning, careful removal of remaining supports and light finishing.

This guide applies to resin models supplied by Scale Model Figures. Other manufacturers may use different materials or preparation methods.

1. Unpacking Your Model

Open the packaging carefully over a clear work surface. Small accessories can be easy to overlook, so check all wrapping before disposing of it.

Hold figures around stronger areas such as the torso. Avoid lifting or pulling them by weapons, tools, ankles or other thin details.

Before starting preparation:

• Check the contents against your order and the product listing.

• Look for any damage or missing parts.

• Identify separate components and any remaining printing supports.

• Keep small pieces together in a tray or container.

If something appears damaged, missing or unusually sticky, contact us before attempting repairs or painting.

2. Removing Remaining Printing Supports

Supports hold a model in position during 3D printing. Some small supports or attachment marks may remain when your model arrives.

Useful tools

• Fine modelling cutters suitable for delicate plastic or resin parts.

• Fine files or sanding sticks.

• A sharp modelling knife, where appropriate.

• Good lighting and, for smaller scales, magnification.

How to remove supports

1. Identify the support and its attachment point before cutting.

2. Support the model close to the area you are working on.

3. Remove longer support sections in small stages to reduce strain.

4. Trim the remaining attachment carefully.

5. Smooth the mark gently if needed.

Do not pull or twist supports away. This can break delicate parts or remove a small piece of the model’s surface.

Be particularly careful around fingers, faces, thin clothing edges and equipment. If you cannot tell whether a feature is a support or part of the sculpt, send us a photograph before cutting it.

3. Cleaning Before Painting

Once supports have been removed, gently clean the model to remove handling residue and loose debris.

1. Use lukewarm water with a small amount of ordinary washing-up liquid.

2. Clean gently with a soft brush where needed.

3. Rinse carefully.

4. Allow the model to dry completely before assembly or priming.

Avoid prolonged soaking, hot water and vigorous scrubbing. Moisturising hand soaps may leave a residue that affects paint adhesion.

Do not use acetone, paint stripper or other strong solvents as a routine cleaner. If you are unsure whether a product is suitable, ask before applying it.

4. Smoothing Marks & Filling Gaps

Small support marks or visible print lines may benefit from light finishing. Work slowly and preserve surrounding detail.

Use fine abrasives rather than coarse sandpaper. Wet sanding can help limit airborne dust where suitable.

Avoid breathing in resin dust. Use suitable respiratory protection, follow the abrasive and material safety guidance, and clean the work area afterwards. Wear eye protection when clipping parts.

For small assembly gaps, use a modelling filler suitable for resin. Follow its instructions and allow it to harden fully before smoothing.

After finishing, remove dust and allow the model to dry completely before painting.

5. Assembling Separate Parts

Most figures are supplied in one piece, but some models and accessories require assembly.

Test-fit all parts before applying glue.

Check the alignment and identify the intended contact points. If a joint does not fit, inspect it for a support remnant or obstruction rather than forcing it together.

Use an adhesive labelled as suitable for resin, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Standard plastic cement intended for polystyrene kits is generally unsuitable for resin models.

Apply glue sparingly and allow the joint to set fully before handling or painting.

For a difficult fit, send us photographs showing both parts before making substantial alterations.

6. Priming Your Model

Primer provides a consistent surface for painting and helps reveal areas that need further attention.

Choose a modelling primer suitable for resin and follow its instructions.

• Grey: a versatile starting point for most colour schemes.

• White: useful beneath bright or light colours.

• Black: useful as a starting point for darker finishes.

Apply thin, even coats. Heavy primer can obscure facial features, fabric texture and other fine details.

If using a spray primer, follow the stated ventilation, temperature and application guidance. Allow it to dry fully before painting.

7. Painting & Protecting the Finish

Water-based acrylic modelling paints are a practical choice for many resin miniatures.

Build up the colour with thin coats, allowing each layer to dry. Start with the main areas, then add smaller details, shadows and highlights.

For small figures, a neat colour scheme and subtle shading can be more effective than trying to paint every tiny feature.

A suitable modelling varnish can help protect the finished paintwork. Matt finishes suit many figures, while satin or gloss can be used for selected effects. Follow the product instructions and allow the paint to dry sufficiently before varnishing.

8. Bent or Warped Parts

If a part arrives bent or warped, contact us with a clear photograph before attempting to reshape it.

Do not force a cold resin part into position. Thin parts may snap, and different resin formulations respond differently to heat.

Avoid boiling water, hairdryers or other heat treatments unless we have advised you on the particular part.

9. Sticky or Tacky Surfaces

A model should not require you to resolve an unusually sticky surface before use.

If a part feels tacky:

• Stop preparation and avoid handling the affected area with bare skin.

• Keep it away from children, pets and household surfaces.

• Contact us with your order number and details of the affected model.

Do not apply paint over the problem or attempt to fix it using solvents, heat or sunlight. We will advise on the appropriate next step.

10. Storage, Display & Transport

Resin models need careful handling, even after painting.

• Store away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

• Avoid hot windowsills, radiators and parked cars.

• Keep delicate parts free from pressure.

• Remove dust with a clean, soft brush.

• Avoid household cleaning sprays and abrasive cloths.

• Transport models in protective packaging that supports stronger areas.

Paint and varnish do not make thin parts unbreakable. Handle finished models as carefully as unpainted ones.

Reporting Damage or a Problem

If your model arrives damaged, incomplete, warped or tacky, please contact us before repairing or altering it.

Include:

• Your order number.

• The product name or stock code.

• A brief description of the problem.

• A clear photograph of the whole model.

• A close-up of the affected area.

For delivery damage, please retain the packaging and include photographs of any visible damage to it. Keep broken pieces where possible.

This information helps us understand the issue and arrange an appropriate solution.

Need Help Before You Start?

If you are unsure about a support, assembly joint or preparation method, please ask. A clear photograph often helps us give more useful advice.

Our models are intended for adult hobbyists and collectors. They are not toys and may contain small, sharp or fragile parts.

Scale Model Figures — Bringing miniature scenes to life.