If you’re looking to add a little more color to your life, or if you’re just trying to add a pop of color to your décor, spray painting your 3D prints is a great way to do it! But before you start spraying, there are a few things you need to do to prep your prints.
The first thing you need to do is make sure your print is smooth. Any bumps or ridges will show through the paint, so you want to make sure the surface is as smooth as possible. You can do this by sanding your print with a fine-grit sandpaper.
Once your print is smooth, you need to prime it. This will help the paint adhere to the surface better and create a more even finish. You can use any kind of primer, but we recommend using an acrylic primer.
Now that your print is primed and ready to go, it’s time to start spraying! We recommend using an airbrush for best results, but you can also use a can of spray paint. Just make sure to use light, even coats and give each coat plenty of time to dry before adding another.
Once you’re happy with the color, you need to protect your paint job. A clear coat will help to seal in the color and protect it from scratches and wear. You can use a clear lacquer, varnish, or even just a can of clear spray paint.
Now that your print is all painted up, it’s time to display it! We recommend using a display stand or frame to keep your print safe and looking its best.
With a little bit of prep work and the right supplies, you can easily spray paint your 3D prints! Just remember to work in a well-ventilated area, use light, even coats, and give each coat plenty of time to dry before adding another.
Other related questions:
Can 3D prints be spray painted?
3D prints can be spray painted, but it is important to use a primer first to help the paint adhere to the surface.
How do you prepare 3D printed props for paint?
There are a few different ways that you can prepare 3D printed props for paint, depending on the type of prop and the material it is made from. If the prop is made from a porous material, like PLA plastic, you will need to seal it with a primer before painting. If the prop is made from a non-porous material, like ABS plastic, you can paint it without priming it first. In both cases, it is always a good idea to sand the surface of the prop before painting to help the paint adhere better.
Does spray paint stick to PLA?
There are a few things to consider when painting PLA. The first is that PLA is a thermoplastic, meaning it is sensitive to heat. This means that if you use too much heat when painting PLA, the PLA can warp or melt. The second thing to consider is that PLA is an oxygen-sensitive material. This means that if you don’t use a primer or paint that is designed for use with PLA, the paint may not adhere well or may discolor the PLA.
How do you make a 3D print model for a painting?
There are a few ways to make a 3D print model for a painting. One way is to use a 3D modeling program to create a 3D model of the painting. Another way is to use a 2D image of the painting and convert it into a 3D model using a 3D printing program.
Bibliography
- How to Prime and Paint 3D Printed Parts (With Video)
- Ultimate Guide to Painting 3D Prints | MakerBot 3D Printers
- Painting PLA: How to Paint 3D Prints – All3DP