Before you read any more be aware that this guide is meant for large to epic sized models. I do not recommend to use the method described on lesser models as it might obscure to many details.
One of the major problems when painting FDM printed models is the layer lines. I have printed a lot of large to medium scale models the last couple of years and made some experiences through the process.
When the models have been printed with a layer height of 0.1 it is possible to add a satin floor varnish to the model, wait for it to dry and then add two layers of cheap undercoat to obtain a rather smooth surface. But when you have printed a model with a layer height of 0.2 to save print time you need more drastic methods.
I needed to buy some parts for the car yesterday and I found a very interesting product in the auto shop. It was called spray filler. The idea with the spray filler is that it is a sprayable filler. This sounded just like the thing I needed for my latest 3d printed project so I bought a can and tried it.
Here I have applied a single layer to a large 3D printed model which was printed with a layer height of 0.2. And just take a look at it the lines, even those at the head are really smoothed out. Unfortunately I didn't take a picture before I applied the coat.
So if you have a model printed with a layer height of 0.1 I'll say that one or two coats of this spray filler will suffice
If you have been a bit lazy (like me) a printed with a layer height of 0.2 you will have to add 3-4 coats.
Remember to allow this stuff to dry between each layer. And that's it, your model are ready for painting. If you model has gotten any uneven surfaces during the process you can easily remove them with some fine grit sandpaper.
I have made a short video where I talk a bit about this process. I use this colossal skeleton and an large undead hydra model as examples in the video. I printed the hydra with both 0.1 layer height and 0.2 and the difference is really visible.
Comentarios