A raw FDM print has visible lines from its layers. For display pieces, finishing changes how it looks.
Remove supports and clean up
First remove supports carefully and trim small stray strands. Sharp tools take off ridges, but work gently so you do not mark the part.
Sanding
Start with a medium-coarse sandpaper and move to finer grits. Wet sanding gives a smoother result and reduces dust, and you should wear a mask.
Filling and priming
Fine gaps and lines can be filled with a filler primer. Apply thin coats and sand lightly between them.
Painting
After priming, paint in thin layers. Several light coats look better than one thick one. A clear coat protects the paint.
Material matters
- PLA sands and paints well.
- PETG is harder to sand and paints less easily.
- Flexible TPU is usually left raw.
When to leave it raw
Functional parts such as brackets and clips do not need finishing, and sanding can remove strength or change fit. Keychains and name signs often look best raw, because the layer texture gives them a distinct character.
Tell us the look you want
If you need a smooth or painted finish, say so when you ask for a quote, as it adds time and cost.
Start at our custom print page.
