How to paint 3D pieces

The vast majority of the most affordable 3D printers in the market print in only one color. This means that pieces that require more detail, such as action figures, can go one step further to exhibition or commercialization. Although the part must undergo treatment before it can be painted, the process may be simpler than you might think. Check out the tips from 3D Lopes on how to paint 3D pieces. With เครื่องพิมพ์ 3 มิติ the deals come perfectly.

Have all materials at hand

To paint 3D pieces, it is important to put together some basic materials. Professionals recommend starting the process with all of them around. The main materials are:

Primer: Use to prepare the part for painting, making the print more adherent to the ink. The choice of primer should consider primarily the material of the printed part

Sandpaper optional: Use to make parts with uneven surface smoother. This process must be done prior to primer application.

Flannel optional: Use to remove dust and dirt from the surface of the part.

Waterproof masking tape: Use to seal off unpainted parts.

Spray paint: Most spray paints are compatible with the primers used to prepare plastic parts. So feel free to choose your favorite color and finish.

Topcoat: Use to make the paint more homogeneous.

Prepare the part

The painting is best received by smooth pieces without imperfections. If the part has very large shavings or pores, the defect will be highlighted by the paint. So do not hesitate to use thicker sandpaper to remove large imperfections. Details can be fixed with thinner sandpaper. Also, remove all dust with the help of the flannel. You can also use chemicals to make the piece smoother. Acetone works well for ABS parts. Already PLA prints can be smoother with the help of ethyl acetate.

Use proper primer

To paint 3D parts, it is essential to use a primer. Choose a specific product for the plastic on which your 3D part was printed. After priming, avoid contact of the part with oily substances, which impair the adhesion of the paint. This includes your hands. Therefore, drill a hole in the base of the part so that it can be handled with a toothpick underneath as support.

The primer layers should be thin, preventing material from dripping over the part and accumulating in the details. It is better to apply the product in several thin layers than a thick one, for example. Let the part dry between applications. The number of applications varies depending on the paint being used.

Paint the part with the base color.

Before painting 3D parts, set the color palette to use. First apply the base color throughout the piece so that you can then paint the details. In this step, paint the part using the same techniques as the primer. Make thin layers two or three until you get regular coverage of the part.

Create masks with ribbon

Use masking tape to cover parts of the piece, highlighting what should be painted in another color. The smaller the area covered, the easier it is to paint. Make sure the tape is securely attached to the part, but do not force it to peel off the bottom ink layer. When the ink is dry, remove the tape very carefully. Then repeat the operation for each color the part has.