Magnetizing your miniatures allows for greater flexibility and ease of transport. This guide provides detailed step-by-step instructions to help you effectively magnetize your miniatures for wargaming.
Materials Needed
- Drill Bits: Match your drill bit size to the diameter of your magnets.
- Super Glue: For securing magnets in place.
- Tweezers: To handle small magnets.
- Hobby Knife: To clean up the drilled holes.
- Ruler or Calipers: To measure and mark drilling points accurately.
- Magnets: Appropriate sizes as detailed in the main guide.
- Pin Vise or Hand Drill: For precision drilling.
- Protective Gear: Safety glasses to protect your eyes while drilling.
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Plan Your Magnetization
Identify the parts you want to magnetize and choose the appropriate magnet size. Consider the weight and balance of the parts to ensure the magnets will hold them securely.
2. Mark Drilling Points
Using a ruler or calipers, measure and mark the exact points where you will drill holes for the magnets. This ensures precision and alignment.
3. Drill Holes
Carefully drill holes into the marked points on your miniatures. Ensure the depth of the holes matches the thickness of your magnets. A pin vise or hand drill allows for controlled, precise drilling. Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.
4. Clean the Holes
Use a hobby knife to clean up any rough edges around the drilled holes. This helps the magnets fit snugly and ensures a clean, professional finish.
5. Test Fit the Magnets
Before gluing, place the magnets into the drilled holes to ensure they fit properly. This step prevents mistakes and allows for any necessary adjustments.
6. Glue the Magnets
Apply a small amount of super glue to the magnets and insert them into the holes. Be mindful of the polarity to ensure parts will attract rather than repel each other. Use tweezers to handle the magnets, especially small ones, to avoid glue on your fingers.
7. Allow the Glue to Dry
Let the glue dry completely before handling the miniatures. This ensures the magnets are securely fixed in place. Refer to the glue manufacturer's instructions for drying times.
8. Assemble and Test
Once the glue is dry, assemble the magnetized parts and test the connections. Ensure that the parts hold securely and can be easily swapped or moved as intended.
Tips for Successful Magnetization
- Use Correct Polarity: Always double-check magnet polarity before gluing to avoid parts repelling each other.
- Test Fit Parts: Before gluing, test fit all parts to ensure proper alignment and fit.
- Work Slowly: Take your time to avoid mistakes and ensure precision. Rushing can lead to misaligned magnets and poor results.
- Use the Right Tools: High-quality tools make the process easier and more accurate. Invest in a good pin vise, drill bits, and tweezers.
- Practice on Spare Parts: If you’re new to magnetizing, practice on spare or less important parts first to gain confidence and skill.
By following these detailed steps, you'll be able to magnetize your miniatures effectively, enhancing your wargaming experience with greater flexibility, ease of transport, and customization options. Happy gaming!