How to Clean Up 3D Prints

Cleaning up 3D prints is an essential step in achieving professional-quality results. While modern 3D printers are exact, raw prints often feature imperfections such as layer lines, residual support structures, or rough surfaces.

Proper post-processing enhances the final appearance, improves functionality, and ensures the part meets its intended purpose.

There are various methods for cleaning up 3D-printed objects, from sanding 3D prints smooth to removing support structures. This guide explores the most common techniques and tools for making your prints look polished and professional and how MakerVerse offers specialized finishing services to handle all this for you.  

Cleaning Up 3D Prints: Key Considerations

Before starting the clean-up process, it’s essential to consider the material and printing method used.

Material Matters: Different materials have varying post-processing requirements. For example:

• PLA and ABS: Require careful sanding and, in some cases, solvent smoothing.
• Resins: Often need additional curing and polishing for a clean finish.
• Nylon: Typically used in SLS printing, it benefits from advanced techniques like media blasting.

The printing method also affects the cleanup that’s needed.

FDM: Commonly leaves visible layer lines and support structures that need manual removal.

SLA: Produces high-detail parts but often requires cleaning excess resin and curing.

SLS: Creates powdery surfaces that can be cleaned and smoothed through media blasting.

How to Remove Support Structures

Support structures are a common byproduct of 3D printing, especially in complex designs. Removing them carefully is the first step in cleaning up your print.

Manual Support Removal:

Use tools like flush cutters, tweezers, or pliers to carefully detach supports without damaging the print.

Work slowly and methodically to avoid breaking delicate parts.

Automated Support Removal:

Some supports, like those printed with dissolvable materials, can be removed using chemical baths.

Ultrasonic cleaning is another efficient method for removing supports in resin or SLS prints.

MakerVerse offers professional support removal services for free, ensuring clean and precise results without risk to the integrity of the print.

How to Sand 3D Prints Smooth

Sanding is one of the most effective ways to smooth out layer lines and imperfections on 3D prints.

Start with coarse-grit sandpaper (e.g., 120 grit) to remove larger imperfections. Gradually move to finer grits (up to 1000 or higher) for a polished finish.

Wet sanding is recommended for materials like PLA or resin to reduce heat buildup and prevent deformation.

With the proper technique, sanding can transform a rough 3D print into a professional-quality part.

Advanced Finishing Techniques

In addition to sanding, advanced methods can further enhance the appearance and functionality of 3D-printed objects.

Solvent Smoothing:

• For materials like ABS, acetone vapor smoothing can create a glossy, polished surface.
• Resin prints can be smoothed using isopropyl alcohol baths.
• Safety is critical when using proper ventilation and protective equipment when using solvents.

Priming and Painting:

• Apply a primer to fill minor imperfections and create a smooth base for paint.
• Use spray paint in thin, even coats to achieve a professional finish.

Media Blasting (included with orders from MakerVerse):

• This process uses high-pressure abrasive media to clean and smooth the surface of 3D prints, particularly for SLS-printed parts.
• It is ideal for creating a uniform matte finish.

Cleaning and Polishing Resin 3D Prints

Resin prints require specific steps to remove excess resin and achieve a smooth, glossy finish.

Removing Excess Resin: Wash the print in isopropyl alcohol (IPA) using a container or ultrasonic cleaner. This removes sticky residue and uncured resin.

UV Curing for Strength: Expose the cleaned print to UV light to fully cure the material. This hardens the surface and enhances durability.

Polishing: Polishing compounds or ultra-fine abrasives buff the cured resin for a high-gloss finish.

Elevate Your 3D Prints with MakerVerse

Post-processing is vital in turning 3D prints from raw prototypes into professional-quality parts. Each method contributes to the final result, from removing support structures to sanding and advanced techniques like media blasting.

At MakerVerse, we simplify the process with expert 3D printing services and finishing options tailored to your needs. Whether you require precise support removal, media blasting for a clean matte finish, or guidance on the best finishing techniques, our platform ensures exceptional results for every project.