Finishing 3D Prints 101: How to Paint 3D Printed Parts

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HOW TO PAINT YOUR 3D PRINTS
If you’re an engineer or product designer creating concept models, a prop or set designer, artist, or an educator looking to add incorporate a bit more creativity into your classroom 3D printing activities, painting your models can be a great solution.
In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to create a nearly automotive quality paint job on any of your 3D printed objects.
Working time will vary depending on your model. Including drying time, the process shown took us about 6 hours from start to finish.
SUPPLIES
3D Print
Rubbing alcohol
Paper towels
Spray primer/filler
Spray paint
Hanging cord
80, 120, 240, 200, 1000 grit sandpaper
Needlenose pliers
Bondo
Sanding block & sandpaper
Gloves
Eye protection
Respiratory Mask
STEP 1: PREPARE & PRINT MODAL
When preparing models for painting in MakerBot Print, keep in mind how your print settings will affect the quality of your paint job. Consider: Print settings, print orientation, number of build plates
STEP 2: REMOVE SUPPORT MATERIAL & RAFTS
Supplies used: Needle-nose pliers or flush cutters
After you remove your print from the build plate of your printer, you will need to remove any raft or support material.
A. Remove prints from the build plate
B. Remove rafts
C. Remove large pieces of support
D. Approach smaller pieces and fine details
STEP 3: SAND, GLUE & USER FILLER (OPTIONAL)
Supplies used: Sanding block, electric sander, 80,120, 240, 400, & 1000 grit sandpaper, Cyanoacrylate glue (super glue), Bondo
For the highest quality paint surface, an optional next step is to sand your model. Make sure to wear eye protection, gloves, and a respiratory mask.
A. Dry sand the model using 80-240 grit sandpaper
B. Wet sand the model using 400 & 1000 grit sandpaper
C. Glue the parts of your model together
D. Apply filler to any gaps or blemish in your model and sand once dry.
STEP 4: HANG
Supplies used: Hanging cord
Once your model is ready for painting - hang it in an open, dust free space with plenty of ventilation. This will allow you to paint all surfaces evenly without having to handle the model while paint is drying.
A. Tie hanging cord around the model
B. Hang the model in an open room with a tarp
STEP 5: PRIMER/FILLER
Whether you have chosen to sand your model and apply filler or you are simply painting a rough PLA model printed at high resolution, a few layers of primer/filler will fill any small surface imperfections before painting.
Primer filler is a high build spray filler that comes in aerosol form and can be purchased at most local hardware stores.
BE SURE TO:
Shake well before use
Use wide strokes beginning and ending in space outside of the model
Hold the can 10-12 inches from the model
Paint in thin layers using a misting technique
AVOID:
Painting in thick layers
Holding the can in any spot for a long time
Holding the can too close to the model
STEP 6: ALLOW MODEL TO DRY
Once you’ve sprayed 2-3 layers of primer/filler, allow your model to dry for 30-40 minutes.
STEP 7: SAND
A. Lightly sand your model with 1000 grit sandpaper (dry). This will smooth the surface of the model as the primer filler tends to create a rough surface texture similar to sandpaper.
B. Evaluate for quality.
C. If there are still surface imperfections you would like to smooth, continue to apply consecutive layers of primer/filler, and sand.
Once you are happy with the model surface, move on to painting.
STEP 8: PAINT
When choosing paint, you typically have a large degree of freedom as to which color and type of paint you use. Make sure to pick something that adheres well to plastic.
A. Choose a paint
B. Test for color in an inconspicuous location before painting the entire model
C. Let the paint sit overnight to cure
FINAL PRODUCT
In the end, you’re left with a beautiful painted model ready for approval presentation, enhanced for sets or galleries, optimized for better classroom learning, or simply improved for better innovation.
Here you can see just how far we have come.