Whether you're printing a cosplay prop, a prototype, a miniature, or a home décor item, giving your 3D print a polished paint job can bring it to life. But different 3D printing materials behave differently when it comes to paint adhesion, finish, and durability. In this guide, we break down the best types of paint for the most commonly painted filaments — including PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA, and others like TPU and Nylon — and how to prep your prints for the perfect finish.
Paint Types Overview
|
Paint Type |
PLA |
ABS |
PETG |
ASA |
TPU |
Nylon |
|
Acrylic Paint |
✅ Best |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
⚠ |
|
Spray Paint (Enamel) |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ Best |
⚠ |
⚠ |
|
Automotive Paint |
⚠ Overkill |
✅ Best |
✅ |
✅ |
❌ |
❌ |
|
Lacquer |
⚠ |
✅ |
⚠ |
✅ |
❌ |
❌ |
|
Airbrush Acrylics |
✅ Best |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
⚠ |
|
Vinyl Dye |
❌ |
✅ Best |
⚠ |
✅ |
❌ |
✅ Best |
Prepping Your 3D Print for Paint
No matter what material or paint type you use, surface preparation is key to a clean, durable paint job:
1. Sanding:
- Start with 200–400 grit sandpaper to remove layer lines.
- Finish with 600–1000 grit for a smooth surface.
2. Priming:
- Use a filler primer to even out the surface.
- Choose a primer labeled for plastic surfaces.
3. Painting:
- Apply thin coats, allowing each layer to dry completely.
- Acrylics can be brushed or sprayed; enamels and lacquers should be used outdoors or in ventilated areas.
4. Sealing (optional but recommended):
- Use a clear matte or gloss coat to protect your paint.
- Choose UV-resistant sealers for outdoor parts.
Material-Specific Tips
PLA: Extremely paint-friendly. Works great with acrylics and spray paints. Avoid hot lacquers as they can deform the plastic.
ABS: Excellent adhesion with most paint types. Can be smoothed with acetone vapor before painting. Ideal for spray enamels and vinyl dyes.
PETG: Slightly resistant to adhesion — requires thorough sanding and a strong primer. Works well with acrylics and spray enamels when prepped properly.
ASA: Naturally UV-resistant and ideal for outdoor prints. Works best with spray enamels and automotive paints. Very durable with proper sealing.
TPU: Flexible surface makes paint less permanent. Acrylics and airbrush paints work if sealed. Best for cosmetic use only, not wear-heavy parts.
Nylon: Hydrophobic and hard to paint. Vinyl dye offers best results as it soaks into the material. Needs extensive sanding and priming if using other paints.
Recommended Starter Kit
|
Item |
Purpose |
|
Rust-Oleum Plastic Primer |
Surface prep |
|
Acrylic Craft Paint Set |
Budget-friendly, colorful |
|
Montana Gold Spray Paint |
Pro-level finish, outdoor use |
|
Matte or Gloss Clear Coat |
Protects finish, UV resistant |
|
400 & 600 Grit Sandpaper |
Surface smoothing |
|
Nitrile Gloves & Mask |
Safety for spray applications |
Painting 3D prints doesn’t have to be difficult — with the right tools, prep, and paints, you can turn functional parts into stunning works of art. Want to share your results? Tag us @3DPrintiverse on Instagram or Pinterest!
