Mini-making On the Move

Flex-i-file offers an abrasive cleaning disc that has worked really well for me as I’m using one from a FLGS. I’ve been able to extend the life of my current diamond coated files by pulling off the metal grit and not strip the coating more than regular use. Past sets were worn hard and others hobby files I was unable to find cleaning brushes for. For those of you not using diamond coated there are smaller versions of file brushes just for our size use.

Precision measurement and drilling are not to be overlooked. A small ruler can get you along just fine for almost any task you need to get scale. Mine came feom that old GW set and still serves. If you want to get fancy a set of calipers are quite handy and finding them in a ‘junk drawer’ of an older home is always a boon. So be sure to rummage through long forgotten spaces for hobby oddments.

Sculptors take note that small sculpting tools are varied. The knife and spatula tool is very useful but limited in some ways. If you don’t need to get fancy go ahead and skip these tools. Dental tools can be useful but tend to be more specialized with their angles. Be aware of the clay shapers that you get. Black is generally the firm type of rubber but it might not always be. Try and get yours in hand to test them or find a lot of reviews online to verify. Normally these are pretty pricey for other art work and might be found for dollmaking. Again, be aware of the item quality as most (if not all) of these come from China.

One thing that has been a help but may not be an absolute necessity is soft jaw needle nosed pliers. Mine have managed to save the detail of metal figures as I’ve stripped glue in layers that might’ve built a halfling into an ogre. Pulling off parts and not bending/snapping bits can be tricky. Its feasible with patience and firm/gentle pressure (much like eating a pomegranate).

I’ve rambled on over quite a bit and this is a collection of its own. I know my toolbox needs cleaning so it might lose some of the random detritus to streamlining. Good luck all you out there.