Tamiya quick-setting epoxy putty, perfect for filling joints, sculpting details, and correcting imperfections in static models, figures, and dioramas. Easy to mix and work with before curing, with excellent adhesion to plastic and other common materials in modelling.
Tamiya Epoxy Putty that Streamlines Preparation and Sculpting Work in Modelling
The Tamiya Epoxy-Putty Rapido (TA87051) is a fast-curing two-component putty designed for those working with static models, figures, and dioramas who need solid results in less time. Unlike the standard version, this quick-setting variant allows for shorter waiting times between layers of work, which is especially useful when multiple pieces are in progress or when one wants to advance in the same session.
Main Features
- Fast curing: hardens in less time than Tamiya's standard Epoxy-Putty, without sacrificing the working window needed for precise modelling.
- Easy to mix: comes in two components that are kneaded in equal parts until a uniform colour is achieved, indicating that the mixture is ready to use.
- Malleable texture: before curing, the putty has a consistency similar to modelling clay, making it easy to shape, fill gaps, and sculpt fine details.
- Good adhesion: adheres well to polystyrene plastic, resin, and other common substrates in static modelling.
- Sandable and paintable: once cured, it can be sanded, carved, and painted with standard Tamiya, Vallejo, Kaleido, or Ammo references, among others.
Applications in Modelling
Its versatility makes it a go-to tool on the workbench. Here are its most common uses:
- Filling joints and seams: eliminates joint lines between plastic or resin pieces, leaving clean surfaces ready for painting.
- Sculpting details: allows for the addition of elements such as folds in fabrics, mud, equipment, or other organic details in figures and dioramas.
- Correcting imperfections: repairs damaged areas, resin bubbles, or missing parts in kit pieces.
- Modifications and conversions: ideal for transforming or adapting parts in scratch building or kitbashing projects.
Usage Tips
To get the most out of Tamiya's Epoxy-Putty Rapido, keep these points in mind:
- Lightly moisten fingers or sculpting tools with water to prevent the putty from sticking during modelling.
- Knead the mixture until the colour is completely homogeneous: any streaks indicate that the components are not well integrated and curing will be uneven.
- Since curing is fast, prepare only the amount you will use in each work session.
- For very smooth surfaces before painting, sand with fine-grit sandpaper once curing is complete.
- If you need a longer working window for complex pieces, Tamiya's standard Epoxy-Putty may be an alternative to consider.
Ideal for…
This product is designed for modellers working with static models of vehicles, military, historical, or fantasy figures, as well as dioramas where correcting imperfections and sculpting details are a regular part of the process. It is also useful for slot car enthusiasts who need to repair or customise resin or plastic bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Tamiya Epoxy-Putty Rapido take to cure?
The exact curing time may vary depending on ambient temperature, but it is noticeably shorter than the standard version. Under normal working conditions (around 20 °C), sufficient hardening for sanding and carving is achieved within a few hours.
Can I paint directly over the putty once cured?
Yes. Once cured and sanded, it accepts acrylics, enamels, and lacquers from major brands like Tamiya, Vallejo, Kaleido, or Ammo, with or without prior priming depending on the finish you seek.
Is it compatible with polystyrene and resin?
Yes, it adheres well to both materials, which are the most common in static models and figures. For very smooth surfaces or porous materials, light sanding beforehand improves adhesion.
What is the difference between the Rapido version and the standard version?
The main difference is the curing time: the Rapido version hardens faster, allowing for quicker progress on the project. The standard version offers a wider working window, useful for sculpting very intricate details or pieces that require more handling time.
Can I use this putty to repair slot car bodies?
Yes, it is a valid option for repairing breaks or imperfections in plastic or resin slot car bodies, especially when a quick repair is needed to repaint or compete again.
Tamiya Epoxy-Putty Rapido (TA87051) is a fast-curing two-part epoxy putty designed for scale modellers, figure painters, and diorama builders. Easy to mix and shape, it fills seams, sculpts fine details, and corrects surface imperfections on plastic and resin kits. Once cured, it sands and paints smoothly with any acrylic, enamel, or lacquer paint. A reliable choice for static scale models, military figures, conversions, and scratch-building projects.