How do you paint your PLA creations?

3D Printing
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1

How do you paint your PLA creations?

I’m testing various ways to paint PLA game pieces and sculptures. I’m spraying a plastic primer, then coloring with Acrylic. It’s OK but not great. What is your method of finishing printed things ?

2

My daughter painted one piece with nail polish.

3

I was thinking about painting as a way to smooth out some of the visible lines… I know a lot of paints are meant for larger things so they might be thicker than you want for a small project. Whatever people use, it might help to thin it with a thinner appropriate to the paint so it doesn’t obscure fine details too much but still covers the print lines? Just some thoughts.

I’m, by no means, a master painter.

4

For flat objects or less precize painting i suggest hydrodipping (nailpolish on water)

I would use a spray primer first. Sand it. If the print lines are still visible, apply another layer.
Sand it.

Now you can paint.

5

I use miniatures paint or Tamiya model paint. Both have good primers that adhere well to PLA. Airbrush application for both.

6

@Tim_Rastall , is the Tamiya model paint Acrylic or Enamel ?

7

@Shachar_Weis Acrylic. http://www.tamiyausa.com/items/paints-finishes-60