Magnetizing Models for Less Than $10: A Thrifty Hobbyist's Guide

Meta Description: Want to magnetize your miniatures without breaking the bank? Our guide shows you how to magnetize models for less than $10. Learn the cheap tools and simple steps for wargear options!

Tired of committing to a single weapon loadout for your miniature? Magnetizing models is the ultimate solution, allowing you to swap arms, weapons, and accessories on the fly. Many hobbyists avoid this technique, thinking it requires expensive, specialized tools. The truth is, you can start magnetizing miniatures effectively for less than $10. This guide will walk you through the budget-friendly tools and simple steps to unlock endless customization for your army.

Why Magnetize Your Miniatures?

The benefits of learning how to magnetize models are immense. This technique future-proofs your collection, letting you adapt to rule changes without buying new kits. It enhances storage and transport, as delicate parts can be removed. Best of all, it maximizes the value of a single box, giving you every wargear option imaginable. Achieving this for less than $10 makes it an essential skill for any thrifty wargamer.

Your $10 Magnetizing Toolkit: What You Need

You don't need a workshop full of gear. For a basic magnetizing setup on a budget, you only need a few key items that are inexpensive and reusable.

1. Small Neodymium Magnets (2x1mm or 3x1mm): This is your core expense. You can find packs of 100+ of these tiny, powerful magnets online for around $5-$7. The 2x1mm size is perfect for infantry arms, while 3x1mm works for larger models.

2. A Hand Pin Vise (Mini Hand Drill): A simple, single-speed pin vise can be purchased for as little as $3-$4. This is used to drill the holes for your magnets. It’s a crucial tool for a precise magnetizing job.

3. Super Glue (Cyanoacrylate): You likely already have this. A small drop is all you need to secure each magnet.

4. A Hobby Drill Bit: This often comes included with the pin vise. You need a drill bit that matches the diameter of your magnets (e.g., a 2mm bit for 2mm magnets).

The Step-by-Step Process to Magnetize a Model

Follow these steps for a secure, seamless magnetizing result every time.

Step 1: Plan Your Placement

Before you drill, dry-fit the parts. Identify where the magnets will go—typically in the shoulder socket and the arm. Ensure the polarity (the direction the magnets attract) will be consistent across all parts. Mark the center of your drilling point with a sharp pencil or a small knife prick.

Step 2: Drill the Holes

Secure the model part. Using your pin vise, carefully drill a shallow hole where you marked. The goal is to create a recess for the magnet to sit flush with the surface, not a deep pit. Test-fit the magnet frequently.

Step 3: Glue the First Magnet

Place a small drop of super glue in the hole. Using a toothpick or the end of your hobby knife, carefully insert the first magnet, ensuring it is flush with the surface. Double-check the polarity! A good trick is to glue a magnet to a spare sprue and use it as a "master" to test all other magnets against.

Step 4: Glue the Partner Magnet

Once the first magnet is set, use it to position the partner magnet on the connecting piece (like the arm). Apply a tiny amount of glue to the connecting piece, press it against the set magnet, hold for a few seconds, and then gently pull it away. The second magnet will now be perfectly positioned and polarized.

Pro Tips for Success on a Budget

• Polarity is King: The most common magnetizing mistake is inconsistent polarity. Always test before gluing. A simple notation system (e.g., "shoulder North, arm South") can save you frustration.

• Stronger than You Think: Those tiny 2x1mm magnets are surprisingly strong enough for most plastic infantry. You only need larger magnets for heavy resin or large vehicle parts.

• Clean Holes are Key: Drill slowly and cleanly. A messy hole will require more glue and may result in a poorly seated magnet.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What size magnet should I use for my models?

For standard 28-32mm infantry (like Space Marines), 2x1mm magnets are ideal. For larger models or vehicle weapons, step up to 3x1mm or 5x2mm magnets. For tiny models (like small drones), 1x1mm magnets can work.

2. Where is the best place to buy cheap magnets?

Online marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, or specialty magnet websites offer the best value. Look for "N52" grade neodymium magnets in bulk packs of 100 or more to get the lowest price per magnet.

3. Can I magnetize resin or finecast models?

Yes, but be extra careful. Resin is more brittle than plastic. Drill at a slower speed and use a sharp drill bit to avoid cracking the model. Wearing a dust mask is also recommended when drilling resin.

4. What if I glue a magnet in backwards?

Don't panic! If the glue is still wet, you can try to pop it out with a pin. If it's dry, you have two options: 1) Drill it out carefully, which can be messy, or 2) Simply glue the corresponding magnet in all other parts backwards as well to maintain consistency.

5. Is a pin vise really necessary? Can I use a power drill?

A pin vise gives you unparalleled control and is essential for working with small, delicate plastic parts. A power drill is too powerful and fast, posing a high risk of damaging the model or hurting yourself. The low cost of a pin vise makes it a must-have.

6. How do I magnetize a model for a swappable head?

The process is identical. Drill a small hole into the neck socket and a corresponding hole in the head. Glue the magnets in, ensuring the polarity matches across all heads you want to be interchangeable.

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Conclusion

Magnetizing models is a game-changing hobby technique that doesn't have to cost a fortune. For an investment of less than $10, you can buy a pin vise and a bulk pack of magnets that will last for dozens of models. This simple upgrade transforms your miniatures from static figures into dynamic, customizable assets for your tabletop army. Embrace the freedom of interchangeable parts, save money in the long run, and take your hobby skills to the next level. Grab your tools and start drilling!