A Creative Tradition Meets 3D Printing
The ability to print 3D models has inspired everyone artists, engineers, and even kids to explore new dimensions of expression. And it’s no wonder we want to paint them too. The desire to beautify a sculpted object goes back to ancient Greece and Rome, where alabaster white figures and busts were often colored with vibrant vegetable dyes.
Painting 3D printed objects opens unlimited potential for customization and creativity but requires some background information and technical knowledge.
MakerBot PLA Filament: The Basics
PLA (polylactic acid) is one of the best materials to create objects with on a MakerBot Replicator 3D Printer. MakerBot PLA Filament is a bioplastic made from corn. It has some features that make it great for printing; for example, it cools and sets quickly, and it creates an optimal surface for painting. MakerBot PLA Filament is easily painted with cellulose spray paints or oil paints, though acrylic paints are considered to be the best choice. For optimal safety, use child-friendly paints.
Prime For the most even colors and longest lasting effect, prime the surface with a non-toxic, water-based acrylic paint designed for use on plastic, metal, and resin.
Practice Read books, watch online videos and DVDs, join classes and become familiar with different brushes and techniques. Consider 3D printing test models to experiment with different settings and filament colors.
Plan Approach the object you’re painting in sections. Start with a light coat, and add more paint with subsequent coats. Save detailing till the end.
DON’TUnder-ventilate Whenever you’re working with paints, make sure there is a good source of ventilation in the room or get a fan.
Get Clumped Up It’s easy to get carried away and load your brush bristles with too much paint. Maintain a light hand at all times; clumped brushes and the unexpected blobs they can make may ruin a great piece.
Rush Let your first layer of paint dry before painting more embellishments or additions. Haste can really make waste here. Take your time.
Make Your Own Now that you know the basics of painting 3D printed models, check out the MakerBot Digital Store. There you can purchase high-quality, delightful, printable, and paintable digital 3D models and collections. Then be sure to share them with the thriving community on MakerBot Thingiverse. We want to see what you’ll create! Happy printing (and painting)!