I used to have difficulty removing tiny parts from their sprue attachments without them breaking or disappearing. Now, I use poster tack. Similar to Silly Putty, this reusable adhesive is firmer and less sticky. It can be found at department stores, office supply stores, and even “dollar stores.” I keep a nickel-sized lump stuck on the top of a plastic bottle cap. This gives me a raised surface to put the part to be removed. Placing the part (still attached to the sprue tree) on the tack, I can safely remove the piece. The tack provides a supportive surface that conforms to the parts and allows easy cutting and removal while holding them in place. Since I started using this method, I’ve not had a part lost or broken!

Tip submitted by:
Armando FloresBrownsville, Texas