5-Minute Epoxy for Miniatures: When and How to Use It
Super glue (cyanoacrylate/CA) is the default adhesive for magnetizing miniatures, and it works great for most situations. But there are cases where 5-minute epoxy is the better choice. Here's when to use each and how to apply epoxy properly for magnet work.
When to Use 5-Minute Epoxy vs. Super Glue
Use Epoxy When:
- Large magnets (5mm+). Bigger magnets exert stronger pull forces. Super glue bonds can shear under repeated attach/detach cycles with large magnets. Epoxy creates a more durable, shock-resistant bond.
- Load-bearing joints. Vehicle turrets, heavy weapon arms, dreadnought limbs — anything where gravity and handling forces constantly stress the magnet bond. Epoxy handles sustained stress better than CA.
- Gap-filling situations. If your drilled hole is slightly oversized or the bottom is uneven, epoxy fills gaps as it cures. Super glue is thin and doesn't fill voids well, so the magnet may sit loose or at an angle.
- Metal miniatures. CA bonds to metal are weaker than CA bonds to plastic. Epoxy adheres to metal surfaces more reliably.
Use Super Glue When:
- Small magnets (2mm-3mm). The pull forces are low enough that CA holds permanently. No need for the extra steps of mixing epoxy.
- Quick work. CA sets in seconds. If you're magnetizing a squad of infantry with small magnets, super glue keeps the process fast.
- Flush-fit holes. When your drill bit matches the magnet diameter exactly and the magnet seats snugly, super glue wicks into the tight gap and locks it in place. This is the ideal scenario for CA.
How to Mix and Apply 5-Minute Epoxy for Magnets
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Epoxy is messier than super glue. Lay down a disposable surface (parchment paper or a plastic bag work well). Have toothpicks, paper towels, and your magnets and miniature parts ready before you mix — once mixed, the clock is ticking.
Step 2: Mix Equal Parts
Squeeze equal amounts of resin and hardener onto your mixing surface. A pea-sized amount of each is usually more than enough for several magnets. Mix thoroughly with a toothpick for 30 seconds. Unmixed epoxy won't cure properly.
Step 3: Apply Sparingly
Use a toothpick to place a small amount of mixed epoxy into the drilled hole. You want a thin coating on the bottom and walls of the hole — not a pool. Too much epoxy will squeeze out when you press the magnet in, creating a mess that's hard to clean once cured.
Step 4: Seat the Magnet
Press the magnet into the hole. Check polarity before the epoxy sets — you have a few minutes of working time, but don't waste it. Push the magnet to the bottom of the hole and ensure it's flush with the surface.
Step 5: Clean Excess Immediately
If any epoxy squeezes out around the magnet, wipe it away with a toothpick or damp paper towel immediately. Cured epoxy is difficult to remove without damaging paint or plastic.
Step 6: Let It Cure
"5-minute" epoxy reaches initial set in about 5 minutes, but full cure takes longer — typically 1 hour for handling strength and 24 hours for maximum bond. Don't stress-test the joint for at least an hour.
Tips for Best Results
- Work in small batches. Mix only enough epoxy for 3-4 magnets at a time. The working time is about 3-4 minutes in reality — less in warm conditions. Don't mix a huge batch and watch it harden before you're done.
- Don't use too much. The most common mistake is applying too much epoxy. A thin film is all you need. Excess epoxy won't make the bond stronger — it just makes a mess.
- Temperature matters. Epoxy cures faster in warm environments and slower in cold. If your workspace is cold, give extra cure time before handling.
- Roughen smooth surfaces. If you're bonding a magnet to a smooth, flat surface (like a resin base), lightly scratch the surface with a hobby knife first. This gives the epoxy something to grip.
Recommended Magnets for Epoxy Applications
The situations where epoxy makes the most sense tend to involve larger magnets. Here are the most common sizes for heavy-duty magnetization:
[Buy Product=10-3-16-x-1-16-disc-super-strong-rare-earth-magnets-neodymium-n35-nicuni,variant=All] [Buy Product=50pcs-6mm-x-2mm-disc-magnets-n52,variant=All]For smaller magnets where super glue is sufficient:
[Buy Product=100pcs-3mm-x-2mm-1-8-x-1-16-disc-magnets,variant=All]Just Getting Started?
The Magnetization Starter Pack includes magnets, a pin vise, drill bits, Magnicators for polarity checking, and super glue — everything you need for standard magnetization work. Add 5-minute epoxy from your local hardware store when you move on to larger vehicle projects.
[Buy Product=magnetization-starter-pack,variant=All]Warhammer, Warhammer 40,000, and all associated logos, illustrations, images, names, creatures, races, vehicles, locations, weapons, characters, and the distinctive likenesses thereof, are either ® or TM, and/or © Games Workshop Limited. Used without permission. No challenge to their status intended. Magnet Baron is not affiliated with Games Workshop.