Finishing 3D Prints (Sanding, Filling, etc.)

[RiotJavelinDX]

[[Moderators, feel free to move this to a more appropriate forum; that said, a lot of users here seem to 3D print fairly frequently.]]

To those of you who are experienced in 3D printing, what method and materials do you use to get a 3D print paint-ready? I have some 3D prints coming in soon, my very first, and plan on using automotive paint then a nice clear coat on top. But - well, that's the easy part! I was wondering what one should do to make the paint adhere as best as possible and how to smooth out the 3D prints layers.

Thanks guys.

 

[Fetts.Sobriquet]

I put a light coat of Bondo spot Putty on it, then sand smooth. I then paint with a good primer, then do a little more fine sanding.

 

[RiotJavelinDX]

I put a light coat of Bondo spot Putty on it, then sand smooth. I then paint with a good primer, then do a little more fine sanding.

Despite having no experience in this, my initial thought was indeed Bondo. Glad I was mentally on the right track. Do you tend to wet sand or dry sand?

 

[GhostMinion]

I use Bondo, thinned out a little with Bondo brand fiberglass resin (rondo). This way I can brush it on in very thin layers. Then sand it off, and prime, as mentioned above. You may need to reapply the bondo in some spots. Sand the primer very lightly, too. No need to sand it all off. You will likely primer it a couple times, again sanding it lightly. When it's all looking good, I polish with 1200 grit paper, dry, and then I'm ready to paint.

 

[Kevin Gossett]

Wood filler. Smooths easily with a wet finger, sands easily once dry.

 

[GhostMinion]

Wood filler. Smooths easily with a wet finger, sands easily once dry.

I do intend to give this a try as well. Too much damn sanding in my life right now.:lol

 

[Kevin Gossett]

It's life changing!




Sort of. :lol

 

[ahoudini]

Kevin,

I assume you mean solvent-based wood filler like "Plastic Wood?" The water-based stuff wouldn't stick too well, seems to me.

 

[Kevin Gossett]

This stuff

 

[ahoudini]

Thanks! I am really surprised that works but I am going to try it on my "Samaritan" kit. Thanks, Kevin.


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[Kevin Gossett]

The only thing you need to be weary of is sealing it well once you're done so moisture doesn't cause it to expand

 

[Fetts.Sobriquet]

Despite having no experience in this, my initial thought was indeed Bondo. Glad I was mentally on the right track. Do you tend to wet sand or dry sand?

Dry sand until after primer, then wet sand.

 

[MEOWorksCreative]

Use Dupli-Color High Build Filler Primer. I use it exclusively for my prop and statue prints and works even at 0.2mm layer height. The stuff is amazing.

I find it easier to spray light coats and sand in between rather than filling a thick coat and working down. I wet sand and work my way up the grits to get a real shine!

 

[j3der]

I've had great success using XTC-3D Epoxy Coating by Smooth-On. Sanding the original model is not required, and it bonds to almost every material. It goes on clear, thin, and is sandable and paintable. I don't know of many places that carry this, as it is brand new, but there is a shop in Canada which specializes in the 3D industry named Sculpture Supply Canada. Definitely worth checking out!

 

[montified88]

kevin said it...."woodfiller"!!! I use that and a mix of needle files and regular sandpaper......everything turns out sooooper clean. but i do like taking my time to make an awesome detailed prop. which is why i like the needle files. i can use one file for the whole project instead of 2-5 sheets of sandpaper. and it's quicker. just let the file do all the work and dont put too much pressure on it.............you'll see....

 

[scorpion wins]

so you have your 3d printed parts in front of you whats the order of things to do to go from print lines to a nice smooth finish ready for painting?