Painting Miniature/Model Parts Holder (updated, 2 versions)

thingiverse

Update (3/27/2020): My friend pointed out that his washers were attaching too strongly to the magnet, making the mini "off center." To fix this issue, I created a new design that's optimized for 15mm ring magnets. Specifically, these 15mm OD x 3 mm x 5mm ID magnets from Amazon work well (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07C3NWSWP/). They seem to grip the washers better when the countersink is left "up," reducing the rim area for the magnet and improving its grasp on the washer. If you don't use washers, the other design should still work fine, and disc magnets are a bit more cost-effective. I started experimenting with painting small parts, and my friend uses adhesive and pill bottles (affordable and easily available). I tried it out and was pleased that it worked, but felt that the large size of the bottle was unnecessary. So, I designed this smaller version. The top is crosshatched to hold bluetack or poster putty securely, along with a space for a 10mmx2mm disc magnet for use with magnetic or metallic base weights (like washers). As someone new to this hobby (I haven't painted models in years and was really bad at it), I have no idea about the practicality or need for such a thing compared to commercial handles or pill bottles. Anyway, this design is sized for 25mm/28mm miniatures on bases or small instrument panels, wheels, etc., for aircraft models. The top narrows so it can be rotated easily, then flares out to fit the palm and form a more stable base. The bottom has an indentation for using a 1-1/4" fender washer as the base and weight it down, or you can add weights inside and seal it with a washer. I used Bondic-style UV cured "glue" to hold it together, but left room for breaking it free if needed for interior access.