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The Best Paint For Pla For Your Money (Upd. 06/2023)

Kaylee May
  Jun 6, 2023 7:03 PM

Are you looking for the best paint to use for your PLA filament creations? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be discussing all of the essential details of choosing and using paint with PLA, including types of paint suitable for different applications and how to properly prepare and apply them. Get ready to take your 3D printing projects up a notch!


Buying guide

When it comes to choosing the best paint for PLA, there are many factors to consider. PLA is a type of thermoplastic polyester that can be easily molded and used in 3D printing, but it’s not always easy to tell which kind of paint will work best on it. Here are 5 things you should look for when making the decision:

1. Adhesion: Make sure the paint you choose has good adhesion properties so it will stay firmly attached to your PLA without flaking or chipping off over time.

2. Flexibility: When cured, the paint should have a certain level of flexibility so that any bending or flexing of your PLA won’t make the finish crack or chip away.

3. Durability: The ideal paint should be able to withstand wear and tear from everyday use and still keep its color and shine intact.

4. UV Protection: Many paints provide UV protection so that your colors won’t fade in the sun over time.

5. Ease of Use: Finally, make sure that whatever paint you choose is relatively easy to apply – it should go on smoothly, dry quickly, and require minimal cleanup afterward.

FAQs

Q1) Can I use spray paint on PLA? A1) Yes – however, it's important to note that spray-on finishes may not be as durable as those applied with a brush or roller due to their thinner layer of coverage, so you may need to touch up more often depending on how much wear and tear your object receives.

Q2) Is there any special technique I need to use when applying paint? A2) Yes - it's recommended that you apply several thin layers rather than one thick one in order to ensure even coverage without drips or runs appearing in the finish; furthermore these thin layers will help prevent cracking due to flexing or movement of your piece over time.

Q3) How long does painted PLA last? A3) This can vary quite significantly based on the type of paint used and how well it’s applied; generally speaking though most paints will last at least 1-2 years before needing touch-ups or recoloring if properly cared for (i.e., avoiding direct exposure to sunlight/UV rays).


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Last update on 2023-06-06 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API


Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the best paint for PLA requires looking for certain key qualities such as adhesion, flexibility, durability, and ease of use - all while taking into account other factors like UV protection if needed too! Fortunately, this guide provides some useful tips on what exactly you should look out for when shopping around for paints specifically designed for this material; however, if you're still unsure then do take advantage of user reviews available online too!


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