Post-processing your resin 3D prints is necessary to strengthen them and sharpen their details. However, typical post-processing won’t just cut it if you want your resin 3D prints to look more sleek and finished. Here are 4 resin finishing ways for your 3D-printed objects to make them look more defined and polished.
Resin Finishing Step 1: Sanding
Sanding is the first step that you need to do if you want to level up your resin 3D prints. No matter how hard you try, there are always going to be blemishes, support marks, and rough edges left on the resin 3D prints. Sanding takes care of that. Be careful though, too much sanding can ruin your 3D prints, so it is best to start with the lowest grit and increase from there. Start with a 3000-grit sandpaper until finishing off with a 12000-grit one until the surface becomes reflective.
Tip: If you’re having a hard time smoothing the surface, try sanding your 3D print under running water. You can also wet the sandpaper.
Resin Finishing Step 2: Dying & Painting
There are several ways you can add colour to your resin. One of the easiest ways is to buy coloured resin of your preferred colour. However, if you can’t find the colour that you like, you can do the following:
a. Dye the resin
You can make the resin any colour you want by dyeing it. Buy a clear resin and mix in any colour you want. We recommend using alcohol ink as it completely dissolves into the clear resin. If you’ll be washing your dyed prints with other prints, make sure to have a separate wash basin as the dye dissolves in the wash.
b. Dyeing the 3D-printed parts
You can also dye your 3D-printed parts instead if you want the remaining resin untouched. The good thing about this method is that you no longer have to prepare a separate wash solution for the prints. You can just dye the 3D prints after washing by dipping them into different alcohol ink solutions to achieve your desired look.
c. Painting the 3D-printed resin parts with acrylic
For complex and ultra-detailed resin 3D prints like action figures and architectural models, acrylic painting is the most obvious choice. However, keep in mind that you need to have a steady hand and time as this method is the most time-consuming out of all the painting methods.
d. Spray painting
For large or flat prints, it is advisable to use spray painting. Spray painting leaves a smooth surface and gradients. The best way to do this is to spray thin coats until you achieve the effect that you want.
Resin Finishing Step 3: Coating
Coating is an optional finishing method that could be done if you want your print to look more extra polished. It involves coating the resin 3D print with a clear spray coating. Sometimes, it can also be done right after sanding if you don’t want to paint your print.
Resin Finishing Step 4: Electroplating
While resin prints are not exactly known for their mechanical properties, there is a way that their strength and durability can be improved. Electroplating goes a long way to boost the print’s strength and resistance to UV, damage, and corrosion. This is perfect for functional parts.
Improve your resin 3D prints with these 4 finishing methods!
Take your resin 3D prints to the next level with these 4 finishing methods. If you are looking to stock up on resins, now’s the perfect time as we have 20% off on X3D Pro resins for the whole month! We also offer a gift of a resin bottle with every purchase of the Sunlu UV Resin Curing Light Box! Check out all our resin deals here.