A good paint job turns a plain plastic print into a collector-worthy piece. The good news: painting PLA is easy once you know the steps. This beginner-friendly guide shows you how to prepare, prime and paint your 3D prints for a professional finish.
What you need
- Sandpaper (120, 220 and 400 grit) or sanding sponges
- Filler primer spray (grey is the most versatile)
- Acrylic paints and a few brushes (a flat brush, a detail brush and an old brush for dry brushing)
- A clear coat (matte or gloss spray varnish)
Step 1: Clean up the print
Remove supports carefully with flush cutters and a hobby knife. Lightly sand away support marks and any stringing.
Step 2: Sand and fill
Sand visible surfaces with 120 grit, then 220 grit. Fill gaps or seams with a little modelling putty and let it dry before sanding smooth.
Step 3: Prime
Spray two or three light coats of filler primer from about 25 cm away, letting each coat dry. Primer hides layer lines and helps paint stick. Sand lightly with 400 grit between coats for an extra-smooth finish.
Step 4: Base coat
Apply your main colours with thin coats of acrylic paint. Two thin coats always look better than one thick coat.
Step 5: Add depth with washes and dry brushing
Brush a dark wash into recesses to add shadows, then wipe off the excess. For highlights, dry brush a lighter colour or metallic paint over raised edges: load the brush, wipe most of the paint off on a paper towel, then lightly flick it across the surface.
Step 6: Details and clear coat
Paint eyes, logos and small details with a fine brush, then seal everything with a clear coat to protect your work.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to prime PLA before painting?
It is strongly recommended. Primer helps acrylic paint stick and hides layer lines for a much smoother finish.
What paint is best for 3D prints?
Water-based acrylic paints are cheap, easy to clean and work great on primed PLA, PETG and resin.
How do I hide layer lines?
Print with thinner layers (0.12–0.16 mm), then use filler primer and light sanding before painting.
Find something to paint: browse our statues and figurines, busts and masks and helmets.