Which Type of Paint Can I Use for My (Plastic) 3D Printed Part?

Standard model-making paints (e.g. Revell) work great with polyamide (SLS), mammoth resin, standard resin, gray resin and high-detail resin. Both acrylic and water-based paints work as well, but several layers may be needed.

Since polyamide has a porous structure, the result of applying paint directly will not look good. Therefore, it’s better to first use a primer that puts a preparatory coating on your model before painting. Some people, like Dutch artist Danny van Ryswyk, even thoroughly clean their model with water first and let it dry for several days before starting to paint. On our blog, he explains how he hand paints his polyamide sculptures.

How to Paint Polyamide 3D Prints

Mammoth resin, standard resin, gray resin, and high-detail resin will be easier to paint. Also, start with a primer first to smoothen the surface of your model. This way, the visible level structure of the 3D print process decreases. In a tutorial on how to paint a scale model in gray resin, Guido Mandorf suggests first using a spray can or an airbrush and finishing any small details with a normal brush.

How to Paint a Prime Gray Scale Model

Please, do not use any harsh paints because some chemicals may degrade your models or react with the 3D printing materials. When painting, wear a mask, use caution and ensure plenty of ventilation.

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