Common mistakes to avoid when using conversion bits

Customising your miniatures with conversion bits is one of the most rewarding parts of the hobby. It’s a chance to add personality to your army, create unique models and flex your creative muscles. Whether you’re building a one-of-a-kind commander or trying to make a squad stand out, conversion bits can take your army from generic to eye-catching in just a moment. As with any creative pursuit, there are a few common traps hobbyists fall into - especially when just getting started. So before you start using conversion bits, here are some mistakes to watch out for and how to avoid them.

1. Overloading the model

Look, we’ve all been there. You open your bits box and suddenly every single piece looks like it needs to go on your model. But there’s a fine line between aesthetic add-ons and total chaos. Overloading a model with too many bits such as extra armour, weapons, skulls, purity seals or trophies, can quickly make it look cluttered and unfocused.

Tip: What story are you trying to tell? Stick to bits that support that idea and pick one or two key features to focus on.

2. Mixing scales unintentionally

Not all bits are created equal. Mixing pieces from different model ranges (or even different manufacturers) can lead to awkward results. Unless you're going for a specific exaggerated style, mismatched scales can kill the realism of your model and create chaos.

Tip: When you find a bit you want to use, dry-fit it first. Don’t be afraid to trim or reshape bits to make them fit better. And when in doubt, keep the scale consistent with the original model.

3. Skipping the small details

Conversion bits, especially resin ones, often need extra TLC before they're ready to use. Mould lines and sprue nubs can ruin an otherwise awesome conversion if you don’t clean them up properly.

Tip: Use a hobby knife or file to smooth the edges of your conversion bits. No need to wash your resin bits! At Dragoon Gaming, we triple-wash and soak our products so they’re ready to go when you buy them. Dunking them in warm water helps to soften them so that you can bend them slightly. Read more about what tools you need here to start customising your own miniatures.

4. Using the wrong glue

Different materials need different adhesives. Plastic glue works great on plastic models but try it on resin or metal and you’ll just be making a mess.

Tip: Use plastic glue for plastic parts and super glue for resin or metal. 

5. Disregarding the rules of tabletop games

In casual games, your newly converted model might be totally fine. But in tournaments or more formal play, your conversion still needs to follow the rules. If your model is supposed to be carrying a plasma gun and you've given them a chainsword and a hatchet instead, you might run into trouble.

Tip: Know the rules for your army and keep these in mind when using conversion bits.

6. Not thinking ahead to painting

Some conversions look amazing - until you try to paint them and realise there are entire areas you can’t reach. Bits that block access to armour panels, faces or inner details can make the painting process a pain.

Tip: Think about painting before you glue everything together. Again, dry-fit it first to see what parts need to be painted before they’re glued.

Conversions are where your creativity really shines and you get the opportunity to create the army you’ve always wanted. They’re a chance to break the mould and make something that’s entirely yours. Just take your time, plan ahead, avoid these common missteps and you’re good to go. Check out our shop to see what’s on offer and start customising your miniatures today.