How to make a tank sculpture with epoxy putty

Two-component epoxy putty is an ideal material for creating sculptures, figures and three-dimensional replicas with a resistant and durable finish. In this tutorial we show you how to sculpt a miniature tank using Feroca epoxy putty.

Visual reference

The following video shows a tank sculpture as a reference for the result you can achieve with this type of technique:

Materials needed

• Two-component epoxy putty (Epofer EX610-A + E610-B or similar) — working time ~25-30 min at 20-24 °C
• Modelling tools: spatulas, scribers, sculpting knives
• Nitrile gloves
• Base or support structure (cardboard, plastic, 3D print or wire)
• Sandpaper (120-400 grit) for finishing
• Acrylic model paint for the final finish

Step-by-step process

1. Prepare the base. Build a basic structure of the tank using cardboard, wire or a 3D print to serve as a support. It doesn't need to be perfect: the putty will fill imperfections and add volume.
2. Mix the putty. Cut equal portions of the two components (A and B) and knead them together with your gloves on until you get a uniform colour with no streaks. You have about 25-30 minutes before it starts to harden.
3. Apply the first layer. Spread the putty over the base with a spatula. Work in sections: hull, turret, cannon. The putty adheres well to plastic, cardboard and other substrates without any primer needed beforehand.
4. Add detail while it's soft. Use modelling tools to add textures: armour plates, rivets, hatch joints. Epoxy putty holds fine detail without deforming or sinking.
5. Cure and sand. After 6-8 hours of curing, the putty reaches sufficient hardness to sand. Start with 120 grit to correct shapes and finish with 400 grit to smooth surfaces.
6. Additional layers if needed. For areas requiring more volume, apply a second layer once the first has cured. Adhesion between layers is excellent.
7. Paint. Cured putty accepts acrylic model paints directly. For better adhesion, apply a spray primer coat first.

Tips

• Always work with gloves: uncured resin can cause skin sensitisation.
• If the putty starts to harden during modelling, don't force it — wait for it to cure and add a fresh mix on top.
• For very fine details (antennas, handles), model them separately and glue them on once cured using epoxy adhesive.
• Cured epoxy putty can be drilled, milled and tapped, opening up many possibilities for mechanical joints.