For years, automotive body filler, particularly Bondo, has been a secret weapon in the model car building community. It’s a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional hobby putties like Squadron Green Putty for filling unwanted holes and gaps in plastic models. If you’re looking to achieve seamless finishes on your model cars without breaking the bank, Bondo is your friend. And the best part? You can find all the necessary application tools right on Amazon.
Why choose Bondo? For starters, cost is a major factor. While hobby-specific putties like Squadron Green Putty can cost upwards of $14 for a small 2.5oz tube, you can get a larger 3.0oz tube of Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty for under $10 on Amazon. Many modelers, including myself, have found Bondo to perform just as well, if not better, offering a slightly thinner consistency that makes for smoother application. After using Bondo for over 8 years, I can attest to its effectiveness and safety on plastic models – it won’t melt your precious builds!
Alt: Bondo Glazing and Spot Putty tube alongside modeling tools, showcasing essential car body filler supplies.
Applying Bondo effectively requires the right tools. Forget expensive hobby-branded applicators; a simple and cheap metal “clay tool,” easily found on Amazon or in craft stores, does the trick perfectly. Squadron putty tools, also available on Amazon, are another viable option if you prefer specialized hobby tools. To start, squeeze a small amount of Bondo onto a disposable mixing surface like an old soda cap. It’s common for a bit of liquid to separate, so a gentle mix is usually sufficient – you don’t need to overmix. Use your chosen tool to scoop a small amount of putty and carefully apply it to the areas needing filler on your model car.
Alt: Close-up of Bondo body filler being applied to a model car seam using a metal clay tool, demonstrating precise application technique.
Patience is key when working with body filler. Allow ample drying time. While Bondo may seem dry to the touch in about 30 minutes in thin applications, I recommend waiting 2-3 hours to ensure it’s fully cured before sanding. For flat surfaces, a large flat mill file from Amazon is excellent for leveling the filler quickly. For curved areas and tighter spots, sanding sticks and smaller jeweler’s files, also readily available on Amazon, provide the necessary precision. While not mandatory, achieving the smoothest possible sanded surface at this stage will significantly improve your final finish.
Alt: Sanding Bondo body filler on a model car with a sanding stick, illustrating the process of smoothing and shaping the filler.
Once sanding is complete, primer is your best friend. Applying a primer coat reveals any imperfections, ensuring all holes and gaps are filled and sanded flush. Bondo can be reapplied over primer if necessary, allowing for rework and refinement until you achieve a flawless surface. With these Amazon-sourced tools and Bondo body filler, your model cars will be prepped for paint and ready to impress.
