Using a series of post-processing techniques like sanding, painting, gluing, and mold-forming, you can easily make your 3D printed projects look just like their store-bought counterparts — ideal for when presenting realistic “looks like” prototypes to clients or coworkers.

From sanding and gluing all the way to crafting different molds and finally painting the objects, MakerBot’s Definitive Guide to 3D Printing Post-Processing is a valuable resource containing seven different post-processing techniques for design students and professionals to “take their ideas beyond the build plate”.

YouTube video
makerbot post processing guide

Each guided technique features a video detailing the different steps you have to take before and after the printing process. To ensure that you aren’t scrambling for your tools halfway through, each video begins with a complete checklist of things you need to carry out the post-processing technique. These checklists are also organized into a handy Amazon shopping list for one-click tool and supply purchasing, if necessary.

makerbot post processing guide
makerbot post processing guide

But each how-to guide doesn’t just start and end at the post-processing technique. In the case of the sanding guide, it guides you through printer settings, print orientation, and other print settings that can have an impact on your finished model. Once the printing has finished, different grits of sandpaper are used in both wet and dry variations to give the item a smooth finish ideal for priming and painting.

makerbot post processing guide

And to ensure that you don’t have to pause and rewind each video for every step of the guide, a handy breakdown of steps accompanies each video to make it easy to follow along. sanding, gluing, painting, inserts, two guides for silicone molding, and vacuum forming. Here’s to hoping they add more soon!

If you’re looking to expand your ‘How-To’ bookmark folder—this is one handy resource you won’t want to miss!

Author

Carlos wrestles gators, and by gators, we mean words. He also loves good design, good books, and good coffee.