Plastruct styrene scratch building products cover every part of a model, from foundation to landscaping to finishing. Styrene (also known as Hi-Impact PolyStyrene) is the most commonly used plastic in molded plastic kits (Model Railroad, Automobile, Airplane and Ship). It may be combined with wood, metal and other plastics using special glues or cements. Styrene has a tendency to be brittle, especially after lengthy U.V. exposure or painting. It is easily warped by solvents, so care must be taken when cementing flat sheets for walls, and reinforcement bracing is recommended. When constructing closed tanks or structures, venting is recommended to allow the inside and outside temperatures to equalize. Styrene has excellent forming characteristics and bonds rapidly and permanently. Styrene plastic cuts easily using the “scribe and break” method. Only use Enamel, Alkyd Oil, Latex or Acrylic paints specified for Styrene plastics. Professional model makers have used plastics as virtually their sole working material for the past 30 years. However, hobbyists, miniaturists and amateur model builders have, for the most part, continued to use wood, card and brass for their models. There are, of course, applications where those materials are suitable or desirable. But in most cases, Plastruct should be your material of choice. Time, care and skill are needed to get top results. Plastic usually allows easier and faster construction and creates better models. It is recommended to experiment with these techniques on some scrap pieces before committing to a scratch project. These tips are intended to get you on the right track. Your imagination and ingenuity will find many variations on the use and ways to finish Plastruct Plastic Patterned Sheets.
