The world of 3D printing has revolutionized every corner of the design industry, from prototyping to aerospace applications. Although it’s most commonly applied in industrial settings, 3D printing has found a beloved home among miniature hobbyists, especially those creating detailed terrains for tabletop games like Warhammer, Dungeons and Dragons, and many others. When such miniatures come off the manufacturing line or print bed, they require an extra layer of love and care to bring them to life: painting. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the differing types of paints ideal for 3D printed terrain by focusing on their unique contexts, applications, pros, and cons, and finally key tips for best practices in application.
Acrylic Paints
Arguably the most popular type of paint used among 3D printed terrain enthusiasts is acrylic. It’s praised for its wide array of color options, fast drying time, and versatility on several surfaces. Acrylic paint is a water-based medium, meaning that it can be diluted with water and is easy to clean up post-application.
There are different variations within this category like craft or artist-grade acrylic paints. Craft acrylics are usually cheaper, but they often require multiple layers for a solid color. Higher quality artist’s grade acrylics provide better pigment and coverage but come with a higher price tag.
It’s important to note that, although acrylic paint adheres well to the PLA and ABS plastic often used in 3D printing, it’s advisable to apply a primer coat first. This practice ensures that the paint will adhere better to the material and potentially makes the color last longer. Acrylic paint also tends to be matte, which may not be preferable for those who desire a glossier finish. Luckily, the matte finish can be manipulated by adding a glossy varnish over the surface.
Enamel Paints
While acrylics rule the terrain painting roost, there are other options for hobbyists, one of which is enamel paint. This oil-based paint type is known for producing highly glossy finishes, perfect for scenarios where a wet or shiny appearance is required. Enamel paints also stand out for their durability, making them ideal for portions of the terrain that may be frequently touched or moved.
However, this paint type does come with notable drawbacks. It has a slower drying time compared to acrylics, requiring patience during the painting process. Additionally, enamels should be cleaned from brushes using mineral spirits or paint thinner, a step that may deter some hobbyists due to the added requirement of these chemicals.
Spray Paint
Spray paint, or aerosol paint, is used primarily for priming or for adding quick, broad layers of color to 3D printed terrain. The benefit of using spray paint lies in its quick application and even layering, minimizing brush strokes and other manual application issues. This paint type is particularly useful when working with larger scale terrains or when a base color is required across large areas.
However, spray paint application requires a well-ventilated area due to released fumes. Also, it lacks the precision of acrylic or enamel, making it unsuitable for fine details or small parts. Brush-on primers and paints are usually recommended for those detail orientations.
Alcohol Inks
A less conventional but increasingly popular option for 3D terrain painting is the use of alcohol inks. They’re appreciated for their vivid pigments and transparency, giving them the unique ability to create stunning effects like watercolor, marbling, and gradients on the printed parts.
However, due to their thin nature, they are not ideal for achieving opaque or solid color finishes. Using them in conjunction with other paints might broaden the range of effects at your disposal, but it’s essential to test their compatibility on a sample part first.
As a final note, regardless of your paint selection, patience and practice are vital. Plan your color schemes ahead of time, and do a patch test if you’re experimenting with something new. Try different brush sizes and types for achieving the desired outcome. Remember, the painting process is just as vital to your 3D model terrain’s final look as the printing and assembling stages. With diligence and creativity, your 3D printed terrain can transform into a miniature masterpiece.
