ModelCalcs.uk
Glue Amount Calculator — How Much Cement Do You Need?
Calculate how much plastic cement or CA glue you need for your kit build.
How We Calculate This
Estimates glue quantity based on parts count, scale, glue type and application style.
Method
- Estimated joints = Parts count × Glue usage factor (default 0.8 — roughly 80% of parts share a glued joint)
- Total ml = Joints × ml per joint × Scale factor × Application-style factor
- Bottles needed = Total ml ÷ Bottle size (rounded up)
These per-joint volumes (roughly 0.015–0.08 ml depending on glue type), the scale factors and the style factors are rough estimates, not manufacturer figures. Solvent cement is applied by capillary action — “just enough” to wet the seam — so real usage varies widely with technique. Treat the result as a buying guide (how many bottles to keep on hand), not a precise dose. A 1:48 aircraft kit with ~150 parts works out to about 2–3 ml of liquid cement, matching real-world experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Liquid poly cement (like Tamiya Extra Thin) is the standard choice for styrene kits. It welds the plastic together creating the strongest bond. Use CA (superglue) for resin and photo-etch parts. Never use poly cement on resin or clear parts.
A 40ml bottle of Tamiya Extra Thin typically lasts 3-6 kits depending on scale and complexity. Keep the cap on tight between uses as it evaporates quickly. A 1:48 aircraft kit with 150 parts uses roughly 2-3ml.
Yes. Excess liquid cement melts the surrounding plastic, damaging surface detail. Apply sparingly and let capillary action draw the cement into the joint. If glue squeezes out, you have used too much.
Use poly cement for styrene-to-styrene joints (it welds the plastic). Use thin CA for resin, metal and photo-etch. Use medium CA for gap-filling on non-styrene parts. Never mix — poly cement does not work on resin.
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Photo-Etch Calculator
Estimate CA glue and tools needed for photo-etch detail sets.
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Last updated: February 2026
All calculations are estimates. Always verify quantities before purchasing materials.