In some instances, a Dremel might be useful for modelling type work, and working on miniatures.
In other instances, there may be better tools to use.
In this guide, we discuss how Dremels might be used for these applications, and what the best Dremels might be
(*Friendly Disclosure – links to retailers or brands on this page may include affiliate links, and we may receive a commission when you purchase through these links)
What Is Modelling?
Modelling can include new model making and building, as well as modification of existing models.
It involves making different types of three dimensional models, such as scale models.
Model trains and ships, model railways/railroads, model terrains, and model figurines are all examples of different types of models.
What Are Miniatures?
Miniatures small scale reproductions, or small versions of real life or fictional things.
For example, a miniature could refer to a scale model, but it could also refer to a small figurine (like Warhammer miniatures/figurines), or an action figure.
So, miniatures and models can sometimes refer to the same thing.
Can A Dremel Be Used For Models & Miniatures?
Sometimes a Dremel can be very useful for models and miniatures, and in other instances, other tools will be required or be more practical.
Some of the factors that might impact whether to use a Dremel or not might be:
– Size (& Surface Area) Of The Model
It might be much easier and more practical to use a Dremel on larger models and figures, or models and figures with a larger surface area.
Vice versa, for smaller sized or smaller surface area models and miniatures, smaller, finer, or non powered tools might be required.
– The Type Of Work Required
Dremels are quite versatile in terms of the range of work they can be used for.
But, but very heavy duty or very detail orientated work may be better carried out with another type of tool, such as a higher powered tool, or, a very precise or non powered tool.
– Model Material
The type of material (i.e. plastic, metal, wood, paper, clay, and so on), and how thick or heavy duty it is, can matter.
A Dremel is a rotary tool that operates with a spinning bit/accessory, and they are generally designed for lighter duty DIY type work.
Therefore, they may be better suited to materials that can take the friction of the spinning bit, and thinner or lighter duty materials.
Some types of plastic (such as some types of PET) may have a lower melting temperature, and the friction created by the spinning bit in a Dremel may lead to issues with some types of plastic models (such as the plastic melting, or the Dremel bit getting ‘gummed’ up).
Additionally, Dremels may not be suitable for very thick or heavier duty types of materials, such as very thick and heavy duty metals.
They may also not be suitable for brittle materials that can crack, such as some types of brittle/fragile clay.
Can Dremels Be Used On Plastic Models?
We addressed this above, and we also addressed using Dremels on plastic in a separate guide about working on 3D prints.
But, the type of plastic might matter.
Some types of PET plastic might melt more easily, and Dremels may not be suitable for these types of plastic – especially if the Dremel doesn’t have a low speed setting (in RPMs)
What’s The Best Dremel Tool For Models & Miniatures?
Coming soon
Using Other Tools For Modelling & Miniatures
Coming soon
Friendly Disclaimers
Tooljuice.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc., or its affiliates.
Additionally, Tooljuice.com participates in various other affiliate programs, and we sometimes get a commission through purchases made through our links.
