How to Assemble and Base 25mm Dual Use Bases for Wargames

By Wargames Atlantic | Published: 2026-10-31

Category: How-to Guides

Learn a clean, repeatable process for assembling and basing miniatures on 25mm dual use bases, with checkpoints to avoid common mistakes and keep every figure flush.

Quick answer

Pick the side that matches your figure's feet—recess for integral puddle bases, flat for flat feet—then glue, check flushness, and texture. Work in small batches so each base gets the same attention.

Why the side you choose matters more than the glue

The 25mm Dual Use Bases are designed with two distinct faces: one side has a 23mm x 1mm indented recess, and the other is flat. That recess is sized to let figures with an integral puddle base sit with their feet flush with the edge, avoiding the 'standing on a hill' look. If you glue a puddle-based figure to the flat side, you may create a visible gap or a raised stance that looks unnatural. Conversely, a figure with flat feet glued into the recess may sit too low or leave a hollow ring around the feet. Match the side to the figure before you commit to glue.

When to expect a compromise

Not every miniature fits neatly into one category. Some figures have partial puddle bases or uneven feet that don't sit perfectly in the recess. In those cases, test-fit without glue and decide whether a small amount of filler (such as modeling putty) will bridge the gap. The dual use design gives you options, but it doesn't guarantee a perfect fit for every sculpt. If the fit is ambiguous, favor the side that keeps the feet closest to the base edge and the figure's center of gravity low.

Step-by-step assembly and basing

Sort figures by base type: Separate your miniatures into two groups: those with an integral puddle base and those with flat feet. This determines which side of the 25mm Dual Use Base you will use. Do this before opening any glue—mixing up the groups leads to rework.
Test-fit without glue: Place each figure on the appropriate side of the base and press gently. Check that the feet sit flush with the edge and that the figure does not rock. For puddle bases, the recess should cradle the integral base; for flat feet, the flat side should allow full contact. If the fit is loose or tight, note it now—do not force the figure.
Prepare the contact surfaces: Lightly scuff the base surface with a hobby knife or sandpaper where the figure will contact, then clean any mold release or dust with a damp cloth. This improves glue adhesion on both the recess and flat sides. Skipping this step is a common cause of figures popping off later.
Glue the figure in place: Apply a small amount of cyanoacrylate (super glue) or plastic cement (if compatible with both materials) to the contact point on the base, not the figure. Press the figure down firmly for several seconds. For puddle bases in the recess, ensure the glue spreads evenly under the integral base. Use less glue than you think—excess can seep up around the feet and ruin the flush look.
Check flushness and alignment: After the glue sets, view the base from the side. The figure's feet should meet the base edge cleanly. If you see a gap, fill it with modeling putty and smooth before it cures. If the figure sits too high, you may have used the wrong side. This is your last easy chance to fix alignment before texturing.
Texture and finish the base: Apply texture paste, sand, or flock to the exposed base surface, avoiding the figure's feet and lower legs. For the recess side, fill any remaining ring around the integral base with texture to blend the transition. Let everything dry completely. Texture can hide small gaps but not structural wobble—check stability first.
Seal and inspect: Brush or spray a protective varnish over the base and figure, then inspect each base for loose material or glue spots. Store figures upright to avoid putting stress on the bond. A final inspection catches weak bonds before they fail in a game.

Product facts

25mm Dual Use Bases: One side has a 23mm x 1mm indented recess for figures with integral puddle bases; the other side is flat for figures with flat feet. Choosing the correct side prevents the raised, unstable look that comes from forcing a puddle base onto a flat surface.
25mm Dual Use Bases