Pinning

**Pinning** is a fundamental technique in the world of miniature modeling and painting. It involves the use of small metal or plastic rods to connect different parts of a miniature model securely. This technique is indispensable when assembling complex or multipart miniatures, especially those with delicate components that may not adhere well with traditional adhesives. By employing pins, modelers can ensure the stability and durability of their creations, allowing for dynamic poses, customizations, and the ability to transport models without fear of breakage.

## The Pinning Process

The pinning process typically involves the following steps:

1. **Gather Materials**: To get started with pinning, you will need some basic materials, including the miniature parts you want to connect, small metal or plastic pins (often made from brass or steel wire), a hobby drill, pin vise, or rotary tool with drill bits, and adhesive (usually super glue or epoxy).
2. **Select the Connection Points**: Identify where you want to join the different components of your miniature. This might include attaching limbs to the body, connecting weapons, or mounting the model on its base.
3. **Drill Holes**: Carefully drill small holes into the contact points of the components. The holes should be just deep and wide enough to accommodate the pins snugly. Take care not to over-drill and damage the parts.
4. **Cut and Insert Pins**: Cut short lengths of the pin material and insert them into the holes. Ensure that they fit securely in both components, leaving some of the pin exposed for attachment.
5. **Glue the Components**: Apply adhesive to both the pin and the inside of the hole in each component. Then, carefully connect the parts, ensuring a snug fit. The adhesive will bond the components, while the pins provide added stability and strength.
6. **Fill Gaps**: If there are any gaps or spaces between the joined components, you can fill them with putty or green stuff to create a seamless transition.
7. **Reinforce if Necessary**: For extra stability, you can add additional pins at different angles to further secure the components. This is particularly important for larger or top-heavy models.
8. **Let Dry and Paint**: Allow the adhesive to dry completely before proceeding with the painting process. Pinning ensures the model remains intact during handling and painting.

## Advantages of Pinning

Pinning offers several advantages in the world of miniature modeling:

* **Strength and Durability**: Pinning strengthens connections, reducing the risk of breakage during gaming, transport, or handling.
* **Customization**: This technique enables modelers to create dynamic and unique poses by repositioning components.
* **Versatility**: Pinning is useful for a wide range of miniatures, from tabletop gaming figures to display models.
* **Improved Painting**: Pinning allows for painting components separately before final assembly, leading to more detailed and intricate paint jobs.

## Challenges and Considerations

While pinning is a valuable technique, it's important to be aware of some challenges:

* **Precision**: Drilling and cutting pins require precision, and mistakes can damage components.
* **Safety**: Hobby drills and rotary tools should be used with care to avoid accidents or damage to miniatures.
* **Clean Finish**: Achieving a seamless and natural look may require advanced modeling skills, such as sculpting and gap filling.
* **Time and Patience**: Pinning can be time-consuming, especially for intricate models with multiple components.

## Conclusion

Pinning is an essential skill for miniature modelers and painters, offering enhanced strength, versatility, and customization options. By mastering this technique, hobbyists can create stunning and robust miniatures that stand up to the rigors of tabletop gaming and display. Whether you're assembling armies for war games or crafting intricate dioramas, pinning is a valuable tool in your modeling repertoire.