Quick answer

Most assembly mistakes on Malifaux miniatures can be fixed with basic tools: hobby knife, plastic glue, and gentle heat. Bent parts respond to warm water, misaligned joints need careful re-gluing, and gaps can be filled with putty or sprue goo. Always test-fit before applying glue.

Bent or warped parts

Malifaux miniatures are cast in high-quality plastic, but thin parts like swords, staffs, or outstretched arms can arrive bent or become warped during storage. The fix is straightforward: dip the bent part in hot (not boiling) water for 10–15 seconds, gently straighten it with your fingers, then hold it under cold running water to set the new shape. Repeat if needed. This works well for Mr. Graves' door-handle pose or Mancha Roja's dynamic arm.

Misaligned joints and gaps

If a joint doesn't sit flush, the most common cause is leftover mold lines or a tiny nub of plastic. Scrape the contact surfaces with the back of a hobby knife before test-fitting. For larger gaps, apply a small amount of plastic putty or sprue goo (plastic scraps dissolved in plastic glue) and smooth it with a wet finger. Let it cure fully before priming. This is especially useful for multi-part models like the Depleted from the Dark Dealings box.

Glue mistakes and weak bonds

Using the wrong adhesive is a frequent error. Cyanoacrylate (super glue) works for metal or resin but can become brittle on plastic. Plastic cement (like Tamiya Extra Thin) melts the plastic slightly, creating a strong weld. If you've already used super glue and the bond fails, carefully score the joint with a blade and reapply plastic glue. For models like the Wrastlers, where poses are dynamic, a strong bond is critical to avoid breakage during play.

Diagnosis: Common assembly problems

  • Bent part: Thin plastic pieces (swords, staffs, arms) arrive curved or become warped. Use hot water to soften, straighten, then cold water to set. If the bend returns, repeat the process.
  • Gap at joint: Two pieces don't meet flush, leaving a visible line or hole. Scrape mold lines, test-fit, then fill with putty or sprue goo. Wait for full cure before sanding or priming.
  • Weak bond: Joint breaks easily after glue dries, especially on dynamic poses. Switch to plastic cement for a chemical weld. If using super glue, apply a tiny amount of accelerator for instant hold.

Products mentioned in this guide

  • Malifaux Third Edition: Dark Dealings: Malifaux Third Edition: Dark Dealings includes Mr. Graves, Mr. Tannen, and three Depleted. Miniatures are 32mm heroic scale, supplied unpainted in high-quality plastic, and require preparation and assembly. The Depleted have multiple thin contact points that benefit from careful gap-filling and strong plastic glue.
  • Malifaux Third Edition: Off the Top Rope: Malifaux Third Edition: Off the Top Rope includes Mancha Roja and three Wrastlers. Miniatures are 32mm heroic scale, supplied unpainted in high-quality plastic, and require preparation and assembly. Mancha Roja's dynamic pose and the Wrastlers' multiple limbs make them prone to misalignment during assembly.