Best Glue for Miniatures in 2021 : Top 8 Picks

Action figures, miniature models, figurines have been collector's items for people across the world. Most, if not all, require you to paint and join parts together, which takes time and critical precision. For clean finishes, it is important to choose the right glue.

There is no standard material used for making miniature models, so the glue's choice depends heavily on the build material. While most models are made from plastic, metal ones are also available.

Today, we will be looking at some of the top options for the best glue for miniatures to help you pick out the right one for your project. We zeroed on these options based on their performance, material, bonding time, and melting intensity.

So without further ado, let's get down to business!

Best Glue for Miniatures : Top 8 Reviews for 2023

1. Bearly Art Precision Miniature Glue

Ever since it launched in the market, this precision craft glue from Bearly Art has stirred up quite the commotion. What makes it so desirable is the multiple applicator nozzles included in the package.

These nozzles make it super easy to apply glue in tight spaces neatly. This is perfect for gluing metal miniatures without making a big mess.

While it's true that this glue works best with paper, its formulation is quite versatile and can bond most natural materials. So if you're looking for a common household glue for plastic, wood, and other natural materials, this should work fine.

However, the 4 ounce glue works wonders when it comes to paper and wood. So, if you're looking to make your own dioramas, this is the best solution.

With its newly-designed formula, it is able to prevent any form of cracking or wrinkling to give a clean finish. The bonding strength of the glue is beyond exceptional, retaining the bond over a wide range of temperatures.

Highlighted Features:

• Dries clear to give a professional and clean look to your miniatures.
• Multiple tips with various sizing options to apply glue into tight spaces.
• Wrinkle-resistant formula prevents warping to give a smooth finish.
• Strong adhesive bond holds joints together over a wide range of temperatures.
• Precision tips give you full control and prevent overuse.

2. Gorilla Super Glue for Model Miniatures 

No review guide for the top glues for miniatures is complete without mentioning the Gorilla Super Glue Gel.

With years of expertise and innovations in their formula, Gorilla has created a truly multi-purpose glue that can be considered as the best super glue for miniatures. Whether you want to rejoin a broken limb on your action figure or set up your new Warhammer, you can't go wrong with Gorilla.

The 20 gram bottle contains a cyanoacrylate adhesive and impressive bonding strength that works with most surfaces. The thickness of the glue is just right to cleanly attach two pieces together. While it may be thicker than other super glue, it flows slowly, which gives you more control.

Furthermore, the versatility of the glue is something that should be applauded. From paper to metal, the Gorilla gel will stick to just about every material you can find, including your fingers.

Most people struggle with gluing pewter miniatures, this is where the Gorilla gel comes in most handy. The strong formulation is able to give your metal joints connected for long years.

Highlighted Features:

• Thick gel formula gives more control when used on vertical angles.
• Anti Clog Cap makes the glue available for use at all times.
• Fast drying time reduces the waiting time when connecting each piece.
• Versatile formula works well with paper, wood, plastic, and metal surfaces.

3. GLUE MASTERS Professional Grade Cyanoacrylate (CA) Super Glue

Our next pick is this thick viscosity glue from Glue Masters. If you want the very best glue for miniatures, then this is it. Formulated from a professional grade Cyanoacrylate Resin, the thick liquid provides a strong and sustainable bond. Considering how long it lasts and its strong bonding capabilities, it is very underrated.

Moreover, the body boasts a convenient cap design that prevents the glue from being clogged. This extends its shelf life and keeps the glue fresh for the next use.

This is perfect for the ones who keep reusing glue to add new models to their collectibles set.

What's more, the nozzle design gives you better control over the glue. This way, you are able to prevent dropping excess glue in tight spaces.

Also, it can bond various materials such as wood, plastic, and metal which makes it a one-stop solution for all your models.

Highlighted Features:

• Quick setting formula creates a strong bond between surfaces in 60 seconds.
• Thick viscosity texture offers more control at vertical surfaces.
• Improved cap design prevents the glue from drying up.
• Flexible glue forms strong bonds on a wide range of surfaces.

4. TAMIYA 87038 Cement Glue for Warhammer

For those Warhammer fanatics out there, we have this extra thin cement glue from Tamiya. This model cement formula forms a single strong bond with plastic parts.

The runny, thin liquid flows into little gaps to firmly join individual joints. The plastic resin models require a strong formula that doesn't melt, making this the best glue for Warhammers.

In addition, we loved the applicator tip giving us pinpoint accuracy. The pointed shape of the tip makes it easier to reach all those small nooks and crannies.

The glue is perfect for resealing joints that are coming loose as it fills in the gaps neatly through capillary action.

As for the volume of the bottle, it is well worth the money. Given how little you have to use to create firm joints, one bottle will serve you across multiple projects. Also, the extra thin formula doesn't dry up easily, which allows it to last longer even when unused.

Highlighted Features:

• Extra Thin formula fills in tiny gaps without creating a mess.
• Creates long-lasting bonds with plastic and polystyrene miniatures.
• Pointed applicator tip makes it easier to apply a little amount in tight gaps.
• Long-lasting formulation doesn't dry up easily.

5. Starbond EM-02

If you're specifically looking for thin glue with a quick setting time, this next pick might catch your eye. Starbond's 60ml super fast glue features a premium cyanoacrylate formula which allows it to seal and stabilize two parts. Using capillary action, the thin glue is able to fill in tiny gaps, leaving a glossy finish afterward.

Moving on, the package contains several extra supplies which come in quite handy in the long run. Included within, you'll find two applicator caps, one clog-free stopper, and a bag of micro-tips.

We couldn't have been more thankful for the micro-tips because they are literal life-savers. The extremely thin tip allows you to put just the right amount of glue when making small repairs. The extra applicator caps are also helpful as you can remove the old one if it gets clogged.

Furthermore, the super-thin formula of the glue is what gives it super sealing abilities. The viscosity level of 2-3 cPs means that it is almost similar to the thickness of water. As a result, it can penetrate even the tiniest gaps to fill in spaces evenly.

Highlighted Features:

• Thin formulation can last as long as 30 months without drying.
• Included micro tips fill in small gaps in figurine joints evenly.
• Cyanoacrylate formula is able to seal both plastic and wood.
• Glossy exterior finish matches the external texture of most miniatures.

6. Beacon 3-in-1 Advanced Crafting Glue

Next on our list, we have a glue that is truly a veteran in the industry. The Beacon advanced crafting glue has been used for decades by hobbyists and carpenters all around the world. The multi-purpose formula is able to create strong bonds with a wide range of materials, making it a necessity for any toolbox.

With years of experience, Beacon has perfected its formula to make this heavy-duty glue. The liquid travels deep into gaps and form strong bonds which last long.

As this is a multi-purpose glue, the liquid is also waterproof. When using this for carpentry repairs or simple school projects, it can be a handy feature to have.

This is also an ideal choice for your kids because of the acid-free formulation. Unlike most other school glue, this one is free of PVC and other harmful chemicals.

The quick-drying Beacon super glue can easily be a modern replacement for your average school glue as it does everything but better!

Highlighted Features

• Heavy-duty multi-purpose glue stick plastic, wood, metal, and more.
• Waterproof sealing keeps the strength of the bond intact.
• Quick-drying formula reduces waiting time when engaging in a long project.
• Acid and PVC free contents make it suitable for children.

7. Pacer Technology Zap-A-Gap Model Glue

For all those hobbyists collecting and building action figures and model cars, the Zap-A-Gap from Pacer technologies is a must. Within the 1 oz. bottle is a potent concentration that seals almost everything.

This is ideal for car model enthusiasts because of its ability to seal and stabilize metal parts. So whether it be pewter or metal, this will join them all.

As the name suggests, the Zap-A-Gap is the perfect companion for both building and repairing miniatures.

If you're fixing or replacing old cracks, the easy-flowing liquid will seep deep into the cracks. Upon drying, it creates a strong, clear seal that keeps the aesthetics of your miniatures intact.

When engaging in large model-making projects, you always want glue that dries quickly. Often you find yourself waiting for one part to dry before you can attach it to another. The fast-drying Zap-A-Gap dries within minutes, bringing your waiting time down by miles.

Highlighted Features:

• Fast-drying glue reduces lag time when engaging in projects.
• Thin formula seeps deep into cracks making it ideal for repairs.
• Clear finish upon drying keeps miniature looks intact.
• Creates strong and stable bonds with a large range of materials.

8. Games Workshop Citadel Plastic Glue for Miniatures

Finishing off the list is this well-known fan favorite from Games Workshop. The Citadel Plastic glue is a go-to for most miniature enthusiasts. If you're into Warhammer or other plastic miniatures, then you don't have to look elsewhere.

Not only does it fill in gaps, but it also melts the plastic slightly to create a single strong bond. Don't worry about the melting bit because the glue creates a smooth and neat finish afterward.

If that's not enough to convince you, then let us bring its quick drying time to your attention. The Citadel has a super-thin formulation that allows it to melt and cure within a maximum of 5 minutes.

This gives you enough time to fit your parts together and make small adjustments where necessary. It is quite helpful for beginners because they tend to have unsteady hands.

Highlighted Features:

• Narrow applicator nozzle gives perfect control over the flow.
• Has a 5 minute curing time which allows you to make slight adjustments.
• Melts and solidifies plastic to create strong and sustainable bonds.
• Creates a clean and almost factory-made finish on plastic miniatures.

Comparison Chart of Glue for Miniatures and Models

Glue for Miniatures Buying Guide

When choosing the best glue for your figurines, there are some factors you need to take into account. These will ensure a strong and long-lasting bond between the joints. Let's check them out!

Build Material

Before you run off to the store to buy a new tube of glue, you must be fully aware of the material construction of your miniature. This is because a glue for plastic miniatures will not necessarily work well on metal models.

And so, you need to know whether you're looking for glue that sticks, metal, wood or plastic in order to get the best results.

Paintable Capabilities

In the world of action figures and Warhammers, painting the model is a process that most hobbyists enjoy. Now, some models may require you to paint after they have been assembled, while others can be painted beforehand.

Some glue in the market cannot stick well if surfaces have been painted. For example, plastic glue for miniatures will not have a strong bond if the surface is covered with paint. Therefore, you need to plan your painting process according to the capabilities of the glue.

Melting Intensity

This only applies to glue for plastic models. Some glue tends to melt the joints slightly when joining plastic joints to create a solid and firm bond.

However, if your model is made of soft plastic, this can be detrimental to the shape and detail of each part. In such cases, it is best not to use glue that bonds via melting.

Bonding Time and Strength

Working on any DIY project requires you to exercise patience. However, this can be minimized with a glue that has quick bonding time.

The best glue for miniatures won't compromise on bonding strength by providing a faster hardening time. Reading reviews will help you get a good idea of how quick and strong a glue is.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I remove old glue from my miniatures?

To remove the glue that is cracking or flaking away, use anything that contains Acetone. Common household items with Acetone are nail polish removers.

2. Is Super glue safe for children to use?

Most super glue and even some school glue contain PVC and other harmful acids. The aforementioned glue from Beacon is a good choice for kids and adults as it is free of harmful chemicals

3. Is melting glue good for all plastic miniatures?

Not necessarily. If your miniature parts are made from soft, flexible plastic, then using a glue with melting properties can cause more harm than good.

4. Which is the best glue for metal miniatures?

It is quite hard to label one as the best, but it would be the super gel from Gorilla if we had to pick it.

Final Words

Replacing your old glue choice or choosing an entire new glue can be a daunting process. With so many brands claiming to have the best glue for miniatures, you need to focus on certain indicators to know which is right for you.

All the products we have mentioned above are tried and tested to provide satisfactory performance. Get a good idea of the build material of your miniatures, and you should be good.