Project Introduction
When crafting with FDM printer, designers sometimes will feel bound by the material. Currently, FDM printer mainly uses thermoplastic as raw material to print stuff and the surface texture is always the same. However, with post process, the printed model can be more colorful and even has a metal texture.
Print the model
For this project, we use a squirrel model as an example. After sliced by 3DStar software, the model was saved in a USB drive and load into the Einstart-C printer. Couple of hours later, a beautiful squirrel was printed and ready for post process.
Polish the Surface
Surface polish is necessary for later coloring. A fine sand paper can help smooth the surface.
Coloring
Acrylic paint was used for coloring in this project. It has a strong bond with the PLA model surface. To paint the model, the first step is to apply a black base. Use black acrylic paint to cover the whole model evenly.
Wait for the base paint to dry and then apply bronze paint. Dry up the bronze paint a little bit before painted onto the model. This will prevent the paint flowing into detailed place and ruin the texture. Gently brush the surface so that the paint only apply to the protruding area.
Finally, apply varnish paint to shine the surface and create a metal reflective effect. Also, varnish can help protect other paint layers.
With post process, it is possible to use a low-cost desktop printer to create wonderful art with different textures.
