Adding people to your layout

Great idea. That’s better than the Macgyver ones I’ve come up with.

Looks like Peek-A-Boo in a trash can

Good idea.

I use hot glue, a little messy but I'm able to hold the figure until the glue cools.

@RSJB18 posted:

Good idea.

I use hot glue, a little messy but I'm able to hold the figure until the glue cools.

That’s a sharp looking platform, Bob.

@pennsyfan posted:

That’s a sharp looking platform, Bob.

Thanks Bob.

I dressed up the Lionel platform when I redid the yard behind it. The figures are a mix of WS, Bachman, BEEP, and no-name from overseas.

Bill...since this is not discussing traditional 3-rail trains, it was moved to the scenery forum because people on the layout are considered a scenery item.

I have found using JB super weld with the blue setting light works perfectly. I have used this glue for many delicate applications that required an instant set. I also use Hob-E-Tac if I’m making a temporary scene for a post. The only disadvantage is if you stick the figure to a grassy turf, the turf may stick to the figure and eventually the glue may need replacing.

Gene

@Bill K. posted:

When adding miniature people to a layout, a variety of methods are used. Many use some sort of glue or other adhesive. Those of us who are getting up in years may have trouble holding little figure stationary long enough for the glue to set.

I acquired some 1/2" ID drill bushings from eBay. These are cheap ($5 or less) and heavy enough to stay in place. I apply Krazy Glue to the feet of the figure and place it inside the drill bushing while it dries.

Removing the drill bushing after about a minute allows me to slightly tweak the angle of the figure if necessary. Once the Krazy Glue dries fully, the figure is rock solid. However, it can usually be removed undamaged if you change your mind.

As an alternative when you're using CA glue to attach figures, hit them with a shot of Spray Accelerator (available everywhere) while holding them straight up. Instant set and no need to keep holding on. Even easier if you have a helper to make sure the figure is straight and they can apply the spray.

Bill, that's a great idea. I have a service-related hand tremor that makes it challenging to hold figures in place while super glue sets and darn it if most plastic figures just won't stand up without holding them. I've used small paint jars to prop them up, but that doesn't always work and I end up with super glue spread out all over the place.

I always use a barrel from the Lionel barrel car to prop them up . Some Elmer glue does the trick. When you move them latter there is no damage to the surface.

I have recently found out I can assemble Plasticville buildings with a small spots of E6000 adhesive and later be able to take them apart without the glue damaging the plastic.  I say small spots as E6000 is a very strong glue and will glue shoe soles on to stay.  I have glued people on the stools of my Plasticville Frosty Bar as well as gluing the building together.

A small spot of E6000 should work on most smooth surfaces but should be tested to see that it can be removed with out damaging the surface if removal is wanted.  E6000 is a great glue for gluing flexible items too and is at The Home Depot and Walmart.

Charlie