<Tutorial> Finishing a 3D print. Goodbye layer lines

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Alpha

Military Liaison
405th Regiment Officer
Community Staff
Member DIN
S037
Hello everyone,

We were recently asked to describe our finishing process for 3D printed parts so we thought I'd share the write up with the team. I don't know everything about this subject, nor do I think our process is the best. But it works for us, so here ya go. Hope it helps!

Just recently we created a new version of our Spartan Recluse suit using Polylite PLA. To create this suit, we started with files from Halo 5 Guardians. From there we extensively reworked the models for 3D printing and added details. Once we were ready to print, we selected Polylite PLA due to the positive results we have had with it in the past. To describe the process, I will talk you through how we finished the chest armor. Picture 1 (Attached) is a picture of the raw 3D print fresh off the printer and assembled.
picture 1.jpg
The first problem that we tackled was hiding the seams. This is accomplished by filling each seam with a mixture of baby powder and super glue (CA). Once the seam is filled, an accelerant is added to solidify the bond. We then sand down these seams to make the area flush. Picture 2 (Attached) shows the seams after they have been filled. And Picture 3 (attached) shows them after they have been sanded down.
picture 2.jpgpicture 3.jpg
We then cover the whole piece with a product from Smooth-On called XTC3D (any 2 part epoxy will do). This is a two-part epoxy that fills a large amount of the layer lines while also adding a degree of strength. Once the epoxy has cured, we begin the extensive process of sanding. This process is three parts. First, we apply Bondo spot putty to the piece in any areas that need filling. Once it is dry, we sand the piece down with a high to medium grit sandpaper. Then, lastly, we apply filler primer to the whole piece. This process is repeated until the piece is smoothed to our satisfaction. Picture 4 (Attached) shows the piece after one of the rounds of filler primer.
Picture 4.jpg
Once the print lines and any other imperfections are filled to our liking, we then wet sand the whole piece up to 1500 grit sandpaper. This ensures an extremely smooth surface. Once wet sanding is complete the fun really begins. Time for color. We first put down a metallic base coat on the piece. This base coat is then covered with a clear coat. This way when the main color is scrapped off the metal will show for a desired ‘weathered’ look. Picture 5 (Attached) is the piece with the basecoat applied.
Picture 5.jpg
After this has dried completely, we then apply the base color and any other desired details. The final result is the piece ready for cosplay! Picture 6 (attached) shows the completed piece.
pciture 6.jpg
It can be a process. But our goal is to garner the smoothest finish possible on our costumes and this process has worked great for us so far. Hope this is useful to those tackling the 3D printing process. Happy to help with any questions and take suggestions.

-S037
 
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This is pretty much the exact process I follow as well except that I do a preliminary pass of 80grit, do Bondo and then XTC3D. Do you find that jumping straight to XTC3D saves time?
 
This is pretty much the exact process I follow as well except that I do a preliminary pass of 80grit, do Bondo and then XTC3D. Do you find that jumping straight to XTC3D saves time?

I dont know if it saves time to be honest. But I do think I get better initial finishes with the XTC. I've tried sanding before XTC and usually those end up curing a little rough.
 
How much XTC3D did you use for the chest piece? I've always wanted to try it
Just one layer. Nice and thin a little goes a long way. Can't remember the exact oz off the top of my head
 
Hand sanding. So it could just be me on that one.
I know hand sanding hurts...and it is not fun...but...I think it give the most control and best results. For flat areas you can get away with using palm sanders and such.
 
lowest grit I would go with is 120. doesnt rough up the raw print too bad.
Agreed, especially after you start using filler primer. That being said 60-80 grit on areas that are rough (support interfaces, some overhangs, etc) can be a godsend.
 
Interesting process. I've done loads of 3D prints, and I think I might have to re-evaluate that epoxy coating as ABS and acetone smoothing has thus far proven to be too much of a crap-shoot gamble (dip too long, lose the detail... use a deep fat fryer, start a fire... lose the part in the dip... etc). I've found PLA easier to print as well, and this process addresses my concern over using PLA due to the print 'grain' depending upon the resolution of the part.
 
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