Alexei Volkov
Painting is a great way to elevate your PLA 3D prints. However, it's not as simple as applying paint with a brush. To achieve the best results, preparation is key. This includes removing supports, smoothing the print surface, and priming. Priming is an important step as it fills in gaps and improves adhesion between the PLA surface and the paint. There are different types of paint and application methods to choose from, such as spray painting, which can effectively coat the 3D print in a thin layer of paint.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Paint types | Acrylic, enamel, oil, lacquer |
| Paint brand | Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover, Krylon Fusion for Plastic, Montana Gold |
| Paint finish | Smooth, professional |
| Paint application | Spray, hand painting |
| Surface preparation | Sanding, primer |
| Surface smoothing | Solvents, acetone, electric sander |
| Additional considerations | Ventilation, protective equipment, compatibility with PLA |
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What You'll Learn
Acrylic paint is a common choice
To ensure the paint adheres well and does not melt the PLA plastic, it is a good idea to apply a primer before painting. A primer will seal and smooth the surface, creating a base layer for the paint to stick to. It is also recommended to use a spray clear coat after painting to protect the paint and ensure a smooth and professional finish.
When choosing a spray paint, it is important to select one that is compatible with PLA. Some spray paints, such as oil-based options, may dissolve or soften the plastic. Therefore, it is advisable to test the spray paint on a small area first. Spray paints specifically designed for 3D printing, such as Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover, Krylon Fusion for Plastic, or Montana Gold, are formulated to work with PLA.
It is worth noting that other paints can also be used on PLA, such as oil paint, enamel, and lacquer. However, acrylic paint is a popular choice due to its ease of use and water-resistant properties when dry. When working with any paint, it is important to ensure proper ventilation and wear protective equipment, such as a mask and gloves.
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Spray paint for a smooth finish
Spray paint can be used to achieve a smooth finish on 3D-printed PLA plastic. However, it is important to note that PLA is not a typical plastic, and getting paint to adhere to it can be challenging.
To achieve a smooth finish with spray paint, it is recommended to use a primer first. A user on a 3D printing forum suggests using Liquitex Gesso as a primer, followed by colouring with Ohuhu brush markers. This helps the paint spread more evenly and stick better to the PLA surface. Sanding the surface before applying the primer can also improve the paint's adhesion.
When choosing a spray paint, opt for those designed for plastic. Acrylic-based paints, such as Krylon, work well on PLA and are available in various colours and finishes, including metallic. However, it is important to note that the metallic paints may be more challenging to work with and may require additional steps for better adhesion.
After spraying the model with your chosen colour, a quick spray of polyurethane can help create an even smoother finish. The paint and polyurethane will mix, filling in any layer lines, holes, or printing flaws. To prevent drips and accelerate drying, place the painted model under a fan.
Additionally, it is worth noting that some chemicals can dissolve and smooth PLA. Methylene chloride, found in holiday bubble lights, can be used to smooth PLA, similar to how acetone works with ABS. However, this method may soften the plastic, so it is crucial to exercise caution and test on a small area first.
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Sanding and priming before painting
Before painting 3D-printed parts, it is important to sand and prime the surface to achieve the perfect finish. Sanding the entire model might be necessary to ensure that the layer lines are not visible. This can be done with fine grit sandpaper or a sanding bit on a rotary tool. After sanding, the surface should be cleaned with soap and water and dried with compressed air or a tack cloth to remove any remaining dust.
Primer is a special type of paint that adheres strongly to the part and provides a uniform surface for the paint to bond with. It is recommended to use a spray-on primer, as it quickly covers the surface with an even coating. A brush-on primer can also be used for fine touch-ups. When choosing a primer, opt for one that is plastic-compatible and from the same brand as your paint. For example, Tamiya brand model paint goes on extremely thinly and evenly, preserving delicate surface details.
After sanding and priming, the surface should be inspected again for any imperfections. If necessary, a final coat of primer can be applied. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's specified drying time before proceeding to the painting stage.
Additionally, it is important to work in a controlled, well-ventilated, and well-lit area when painting. Using light coats of paint rather than heavy coats is critical for achieving a smooth finish, especially when painting 3D printed parts with internal and obscured geometries.
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Oil-based paint may not be compatible
When it comes to painting 3D-printed PLA plastic, there are a few options available, but it's important to keep in mind that PLA is not a typical plastic and can be challenging to work with. While oil-based paints may be a common choice for many types of materials, they may not be the best option for PLA.
Oil-based paints are known for their durability and rich colour, but their compatibility with PLA is questionable. The reason for this is that PLA is a unique material with distinct properties that set it apart from traditional plastics. It has a smooth surface and is not naturally sticky, making it challenging for paints to adhere to it.
While some people have reported success with certain spray paints, including metallic options, the process of painting PLA with oil-based paints can be tricky. It often requires additional steps and considerations to ensure a successful outcome. Unlike other plastics, PLA is not waterproof, and conventional oil-based paints may not adhere well to its surface.
Additionally, the solvents present in oil-based paints can potentially penetrate and soften the PLA, causing undesirable effects. This can result in a sticky or messy finish, or even damage the PLA object. Therefore, it is crucial to select a suitable solvent that can effectively dissolve and smooth the PLA without causing harm.
To overcome the challenges of painting PLA with oil-based paints, it is recommended to use a primer specifically designed for plastic or PLA. A compatible primer can increase adhesion and provide a better surface for the paint to stick to. However, it's important to test and ensure that the oil-based paint is compatible with the chosen primer to avoid any issues.
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Glow-in-the-dark spray paint for a spooky look
If you're looking to add a spooky touch to your 3D printed PLA plastic creations, glow-in-the-dark spray paint is a great option. This paint type is ideal for both indoor and outdoor projects and can be used on a variety of surfaces, including plastic. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing and using glow-in-the-dark spray paint:
Choosing the Right Paint
Glow-in-the-dark spray paints can vary in quality, so it's important to choose one that suits your needs. While cheaper options can be fun for small projects, they may not provide a long-lasting glow or require multiple coats for a visible effect. For important or large-scale projects, investing in a higher-quality paint will likely give better results. Additionally, consider the colour of the paint. Traditional green glow-in-the-dark paint is widely available, but unique colours like aqua can add an interesting twist to your creation.
Surface Preparation
To ensure the paint adheres well and creates a strong glow, it's important to prepare the surface properly. Clean the PLA plastic surface with isopropyl alcohol (IPA) and sand it lightly to create a rough surface for the paint to grip. If you want a smoother finish, consider using a primer before painting. This will help the paint stick better and improve its overall appearance.
Application and Care
When applying the paint, follow the manufacturer's instructions and use it in a well-ventilated area. Protect your clothing and the surrounding space, as spray paint can be messy. Some glow-in-the-dark paints may require multiple coats to achieve the desired effect, so be sure to allow adequate drying time between coats. Additionally, keep in mind that glow-in-the-dark paint needs to be charged before use. Place the painted object in natural or artificial light to "charge" it, enhancing its glow when the lights go out.
Product Recommendations
Rust-Oleum offers a Glow in the Dark Aqua Matt Multi-Surface Spray Paint that is designed to work on various surfaces, making it a versatile option. While reviews for this product are mixed, it is worth trying for its unique aqua colour and potential to glow strongly in the dark. For a more traditional green glow, you may explore other options from brands like Rust-Oleum, which offers a specialty glow-in-the-dark spray paint.
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Frequently asked questions
Acrylic paint is the most common type of paint used for PLA plastic. It is water-soluble, so it is easy to work with and clean up. Enamel paint is another option that works well with PLA.
First, you need to sand the surface of the plastic with sandpaper to remove any traces of supports and smooth out the surface. Then, you should apply a layer of primer to improve the adhesion of the paint and ensure a smooth finish.
You should use a spray paint specifically designed for 3D printing, such as Rust-Oleum Painter's Touch 2X Ultra Cover, Krylon Fusion for Plastic, or Montana Gold. These spray paints are formulated to work with PLA and other 3D printing materials.
