Magnets in Dioramas and Model Building

For model making and dioramas you use small neodymium magnets: discs from Ø2 x 1 to Ø6 x 2 mm for miniatures and weapons, Ø8 – Ø10 mm for removable roofs and levels, and 3 – 5 mm cubes for square bases. With sizes, holding force and tips for installation.
By Team Magnetenspecialist
2 min read
Magneten in Diorama's en Modelbouw - Magnetenspecialist Import & Export B.V.

Short answer: for model making, miniatures, dioramas and scale models you use small neodymium magnets that you glue into a drilled or printed hole. Discs from Ø2 x 1 to Ø6 x 2 mm are ideal for interchangeable parts and miniatures on a base; Ø8 – Ø10 mm for removable roofs, floors and terrain pieces; 3 – 5 mm cubes for square recesses. An N52 grade gets the most out of little space.

Which size for which part?

Application Advice Holding force (approx.)
Interchangeable weapons, arms, small parts Ø2 x 2 mm, Ø2 x 1 mm, Ø3 x 1 mm N52 0.13 – 0.19 kg
Miniature on a base or metal storage box Ø5 x 2 mm, Ø6 x 2 mm 0.6 – 0.7 kg
Removable roof, floor, terrain piece Ø8 x 3 mm, Ø10 x 3 mm 1.4 – 1.6 kg
Square recess, corners cube 3 mm, cube 5 mm 0.4 – 1 kg
Rotating turrets, hinges diametrical rods Ø3 x 6 mm –

All sizes are in the disc magnets and cube magnets. Choose your drill bit diameter equal to the magnet plus 0.1 – 0.2 mm.

Tips from our model-making customers

  • Mark the poles with a dot of paint before gluing. Place all magnets in bases with the same pole facing up, and all counter magnets the other way round. That way every part fits on every base.
  • Use superglue or two-component glue. For small magnets superglue is sufficient; for larger ones 2K epoxy works better. See how do you mount a magnet?
  • Work with a dispenser: that way you take small discs off the stack one by one. See what is a magnet dispenser?
  • Metal storage box: a Ø5 x 2 mm magnet under a miniature holds it on a steel strip in the box during transport.
  • 3D prints: leave a 0.4 – 0.8 mm wall or pause the print to insert the magnet. See magnets for 3D-printed applications.

Frequently asked questions

Is N52 needed for model making?

With very small magnets it is useful: a Ø3 x 2 mm N52 is more than 50% stronger than an N35. See what do N35 to N52 mean?

Can children play with magnetised models?

Only if the magnets are really secure. Small loose magnets are dangerous if swallowed. See are neodymium magnets dangerous?

Read also

Need help? Use the Magnet Advisor or contact us.