Your 3D printer just finished a print. The shape looks great, but there is one problem, it has no colors. That cool dragon model or desk organizer looks plain and boring. You know it could look much better with paint, but you are not sure where to start. What paint should you use? Do you need special tools? Can you ruin the print if you do it wrong?
Don’t worry. I have painted many 3D prints and understand the common problems beginners face. The good news is painting 3D prints is much easier than it looks. This guide will show you exactly what to do, step by step, using simple tools. Let’s make your print look amazing.
What You’ll Need Before Starting
You do not need expensive tools to paint 3D prints. Most items are simple and easy to find.
For cleaning, you will need sandpaper. Start with 220 grit, then use 400 to 600 grit for a smooth finish. You will also need isopropyl alcohol, a soft cloth or paper towels, and water with mild soap.
For priming, use a spray primer. Brands like Krylon or Rust-Oleum work well. Wear gloves and a mask for safety. For painting, use acrylic paints because they dry fast and stick well to plastic.
Get a few paintbrushes in different sizes, a cup of water, and a paper plate for mixing colors.
Optional items include clear coat sealer, masking tape, and a small rotating stand. Most of these cost under $30 and are easy to find at craft stores.
Step-by-Step Guide to Painting 3D Prints
Step 1: Clean Your 3D Print
Before painting, your 3D print must be clean. Remove all support structures using your hands or flush cutters. Check for bumps or rough areas and remove them. Wash the model with mild soap and water to remove dust and oils. For resin prints, clean with isopropyl alcohol. Let the model dry completely before moving to the next step.
Step 2: Sand the Surface Smooth
Sanding takes patience but makes a big difference. Start with 220–320 grit sandpaper and sand gently in one direction to remove visible layer lines. Then use 400–600 grit sandpaper to make the surface smooth. PLA and ABS prints usually need more sanding, while resin prints need less. Wipe away all dust with a damp cloth. Always sand in a well-ventilated area.
Step 3: Apply Primer to Your Model
Primer helps paint stick and hides tiny flaws. Spray primer is best for even coverage. Hold the can 6–8 inches away and spray light, short bursts. Apply thin coats only and let each coat dry 15–20 minutes. Most models need 2–3 coats. Gray or white primer works best. Always prime in a well-ventilated space.
Plan Your Colors First (Optional but Very Helpful)
Before painting, plan your colors. You can use Paint 3D to color your model digitally before painting the real print. This lets you test color ideas without wasting paint. If you don’t have Paint 3D yet, download and install it from thepaint3ds.com, where you’ll also find easy guides and tips on using Paint 3D. Once you like the digital preview, paint your real model with confidence.
Step 4: Start Painting Your Model
Now comes the fun part. Acrylic paint works best and dries quickly. Always use thin coats — thick paint hides details. Start with the base color and let it dry fully. Then add more colors one by one. Use small brushes for fine details like eyes or buttons. Two or three thin coats usually give smooth results. Thin layers make the biggest difference.
Step 5: Add Details and Highlights
Details bring your model to life. Use a lighter shade on raised areas to highlight and a darker shade in cracks for shadows. Work slowly and focus on one section at a time. Good details turn a simple paint job into a professional-looking result.
Step 6: Seal with a Clear Coat
Clear coat protects your paint from scratches and chips. Spray a thin layer over the entire model. Choose matte, satin, or glossy finish based on your design. Let the model dry at least 24 hours before touching.
Final Thoughts
Painting 3D prints is a skill you improve with practice. Your first model doesn’t need to be perfect. Every mistake teaches you something new. Start simple and keep going. You can always print another one and try again. Your 3D print is ready — now give it life with paint.