Assembling resin miniatures is not difficult, but small mistakes can lead to weak joints, broken parts, or frustration later. Most issues people experience with resin models come from rushing or using the wrong approach.
In this guide, we cover the most common resin miniature assembly mistakes and explain how to avoid them for a cleaner, stronger result.
Skipping the Cleaning Step
One of the biggest mistakes is assembling a miniature before cleaning it.
Unwashed resin can:
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prevent glue from bonding properly
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cause joints to fail
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affect primer adhesion later
Always clean the miniature before assembly, even if it looks clean.
Using the Wrong Glue
Using plastic cement on resin is a very common beginner mistake.
Plastic cement:
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does not bond resin
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creates weak joints
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often leads to parts falling off
Always use cyanoacrylate super glue for resin miniatures.
Applying Too Much Glue
More glue does not mean a stronger bond.
Excess glue:
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seeps into details
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leaves visible residue
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weakens joints instead of strengthening them
A small, controlled amount creates the strongest bond.
Not Dry Fitting Parts
Skipping dry fitting often leads to:
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crooked arms or weapons
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gaps between parts
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misaligned poses
Always test fit parts before gluing. It takes seconds and prevents major issues.
Rushing the Assembly
Trying to glue everything at once puts stress on fresh joints.
This can result in:
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parts shifting out of alignment
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weak connections
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fingerprints in glue
Assemble the miniature in stages and allow joints to cure properly.
Handling Parts Before Glue Fully Cures
Super glue sets quickly, but full strength takes time.
Handling too early can:
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break joints
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weaken bonds
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force re-gluing
Let glued parts rest before moving on.
Ignoring Gap Filling
Small gaps may not seem important, but they become very visible after priming.
Ignoring gaps:
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reduces the finished look
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makes painting harder
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affects realism
Filling gaps before priming leads to a cleaner result.
Holding the Miniature Incorrectly
Grabbing thin parts instead of the base puts unnecessary stress on joints.
Always:
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handle the model by the base
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avoid pressure on weapons or wings
This simple habit prevents breakage.
Final Thoughts
Most resin miniature assembly problems come from rushing or skipping basic steps. With proper cleaning, the right glue, dry fitting, and patience, assembling resin miniatures becomes a smooth and enjoyable process.
Avoiding these common mistakes ensures stronger models that hold up during painting, gameplay, and display.