Ever looked at a 3D printed PLA object and thought, “This could look so much cooler”? You’re not alone! Many makers and hobbyists want to add vibrant colors and a polished finish to their PLA prints, but the world of paints can be a confusing maze. It’s easy to get lost trying to find the perfect paint that sticks well, doesn’t warp your delicate prints, and dries to a smooth, long-lasting finish.
Choosing the wrong paint can lead to frustrating experiences: chipping, peeling, or even melting your hard work. This is where “Paint for PLA” comes in. We understand the challenges you face when trying to bring your 3D creations to life with paint. This post is your guide to navigating those challenges and achieving stunning results every time.
By the end of this read, you’ll know exactly what to look for in a paint, how to prepare your PLA prints for painting, and discover some fantastic paint options that will make your 3D prints truly stand out. Let’s dive in and unlock the colorful potential of your PLA projects!
Our Top 5 Paint For Pla Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Paint For Pla Detailed Reviews
1. Acrylic Paint Set of 36 Colors 2fl oz 60ml Bottles
Rating: 8.6/10
Unleash your inner artist with the HissiCo Acrylic Paint Set of 36 vibrant colors! This set is packed with rich pigment and creamy texture, perfect for all your creative projects. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, these paints will help you bring your ideas to life on canvas, wood, or almost any surface imaginable.
What We Like:
- This set is super safe! It’s made from good quality paint and follows safety rules, so kids and adults can use it without worry.
- The colors blend and mix really well. You can create lots of different shades for your art.
- Each bottle has a easy-to-use flip-top lid, so you can control how much paint comes out.
- The paints come in a sturdy box to keep them organized and safe.
- This set is very versatile. You can paint on canvas, wood, glass, and even use it for nail art!
- You get 36 bright, unique colors, plus 12 brushes and a palette. That’s a lot of value!
- The colors are very bright and don’t fade easily, so your artwork will look great for a long time.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the bottles are a good size, some artists might prefer larger quantities for bigger projects.
- The included brushes are a nice bonus, but serious artists might want to invest in higher-quality brushes for more precise work.
This HissiCo acrylic paint set is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to explore their artistic side. With its wide range of colors and user-friendly design, it’s a great way to get creative.
2. 32 Colors Paint Markers
Rating: 9.3/10
Unleash your inner artist with this incredible set of 32 Colors Paint Markers! These markers are designed for everyone, from beginners to experienced crafters. You get a fantastic range of colors to bring your creative ideas to life. Whether you’re painting rocks, decorating mugs, or making custom cards, these markers are your new best friend.
What We Like:
- Dual-tip design: A fine tip for details and a brush tip for coloring larger areas.
- 32 vibrant colors: Plenty of shades to choose from for any project.
- Works on many surfaces: Great for wood, canvas, glass, ceramic, fabric, rocks, and more!
- Easy to use: No need to shake or press hard, just uncap and start creating.
- Fast drying and long-lasting: Your artwork will look amazing and stay that way.
- Non-toxic and safe: Odorless and acid-free, so you can create with confidence.
- Perfect for DIY gifts: Make special cards or crafts for holidays and birthdays.
What Could Be Improved:
- Remember to close the caps tightly after use to keep them from drying out.
This paint marker set offers exceptional versatility and quality for all your crafting and art needs. Get ready to add a splash of color to your world!
3. 30 Colors Dual Tip Acrylic Paint Markers
Rating: 9.5/10
Unleash your creativity with the 30 Colors Dual Tip Acrylic Paint Markers! This fantastic art supply kit features vibrant, water-based acrylic ink that flows smoothly, preventing jams or messy spills. Whether you’re an experienced artist, a budding art student, or just looking for a fun craft, these pens are your perfect companion for a wide range of DIY projects.
What We Like:
- A generous palette of 30 vibrant colors to bring your ideas to life.
- Dual tips offer versatility: a 0.5-5mm brush tip for filling and broad strokes, and a 1mm fine tip for detailed work and outlining.
- These pens work beautifully on a variety of surfaces including rocks, canvas, wood, glass, ceramic, fabric, plastic, and more, making them incredibly versatile.
- They are perfect for numerous art projects like rock painting, glass painting, custom mugs, scrapbooking, and even decorating Easter eggs.
- This set makes an excellent gift for any occasion, encouraging artistic expression for both kids and adults.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the ink is permanent, a quick seal might be recommended for certain surfaces that experience heavy wear or washing.
- The variety of surfaces is extensive, so testing on a small, inconspicuous area is always a good practice for new materials.
These acrylic paint markers offer fantastic value and endless creative possibilities for artists of all levels. They are a must-have addition to any art supply collection.
4. 24 Colors Acrylic Paint Pens
Rating: 9.2/10
Unleash your inner artist with this amazing set of 24 Acrylic Paint Pens! These pens are super versatile, perfect for all sorts of creative projects. Whether you’re decorating rocks, personalizing ceramics, or adding flair to your scrapbooks, these pens have got you covered. They’re designed for everyone, from beginners to experienced artists.
What We Like:
- Unique Dual Tip Design: Get two tips in one! Each pen has a medium tip (3mm) for coloring bigger areas and a brush tip (0.5-5mm) for details, lettering, and even calligraphy.
- Easy to Use & Quick Drying: Unlike some other paint pens, these have cotton nibs that you can use right away. They dry fast, so you can keep creating without waiting.
- Water-Based & Opaque Ink: The ink is water-based, which means it’s easy to clean up. It’s also opaque, giving you great coverage and vibrant colors.
- Water & Fade Resistant: Once your art is dry, it’s protected against water and fading, so your creations will last.
- Works on Many Surfaces: Use them on rocks, ceramic, glass, wood, fabric, metal, plastic, canvas, and more! They’re perfect for holiday crafts like Halloween pumpkins or Christmas ornaments, as well as card making and bullet journaling.
- 24 Vibrant Colors: You get a fantastic range of 24 colors to bring all your ideas to life.
- Great Gift Idea: These pens make a wonderful present for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion. They’re a fun and creative gift for kids, teens, and adults alike.
What Could Be Improved:
- Storage Recommendation: Remember to tighten the caps and store the pens horizontally when not in use to keep them in good condition.
This set of acrylic paint pens offers fantastic value and endless creative possibilities. They are a must-have for any craft enthusiast looking to add a splash of color to their projects.
5. Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint
Rating: 8.6/10
Unleash your inner artist with the Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint Set! This fantastic set offers a whopping 50 vibrant colors, each in a generous 2oz (60ml) bottle. Whether you’re just starting out, a seasoned pro, or looking for a fun activity for the kids, this paint set has something for everyone. You get all the essential colors, plus some exciting fluorescent and metallic shades to make your artwork truly pop.
What We Like:
- Huge variety of 50 colors, including special fluorescent and metallic shades.
- The paint is water-based, creamy, and easy to mix and layer.
- It offers excellent coverage, so a little goes a long way.
- The paint dries quickly and becomes permanent, waterproof, and fade-resistant.
- It works on many different surfaces like canvas, rocks, wood, ceramic, and fabric.
- The paint is non-toxic and certified safe for all ages, which is a big plus.
- The company offers a satisfaction guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.
What Could Be Improved:
- While the bottles are a good size, some artists might prefer larger quantities for big projects.
- The sheer number of colors can be a little overwhelming for absolute beginners, but the included colors are mostly common and useful.
This Shuttle Art Acrylic Paint set is an excellent value for the quality and quantity you receive. It’s a perfect way to explore your creativity on almost any surface.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Paint for Your PLA Prints
If you’ve just finished a fantastic 3D print with PLA, you might be wondering how to make it even better. Painting your PLA prints can transform them from cool creations into stunning works of art. But not all paints are created equal when it comes to 3D printed plastic. This guide will help you pick the perfect paint so your projects look their best.
Key Features to Look For in PLA Paint
When you’re shopping for paint for your PLA prints, keep these important features in mind:
- **Adhesion:** This means how well the paint sticks to the PLA plastic. Good adhesion prevents chipping and peeling.
- **Durability:** You want paint that lasts. It should resist wear and tear, especially if your print will be handled a lot.
- **Finish:** Paints come in different finishes like matte, satin, or glossy. Choose what looks best for your project.
- **Ease of Use:** Some paints are easier to apply than others. Look for paints that spread smoothly and dry evenly.
- **Non-Toxicity:** Especially if kids will be around your prints, opt for non-toxic or low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints.
Important Materials and Paint Types
Understanding the types of paint available will help you make an informed decision.
Acrylic Paints
Acrylic paints are a popular choice for PLA. They are water-based, which makes them easy to clean up. They dry quickly and are quite durable. You can find acrylics in a huge range of colors. Many artists and hobbyists use acrylics for their versatility.
Spray Paints
Spray paints offer a quick and even coat. They are great for covering large areas or for achieving smooth finishes. Look for spray paints specifically designed for plastics. These often have better adhesion and flexibility.
Enamel Paints
Enamel paints are known for their toughness and resistance to moisture. They typically require a solvent-based thinner for cleanup. While durable, they can take longer to dry and may have stronger fumes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a paint job look amazing or, well, less than amazing? It’s a combination of the paint itself and how you use it.
Improving Quality
- **Primer:** Using a primer specifically for plastics can dramatically improve paint adhesion and the final look. It creates a smooth surface for the paint to grip.
- **Thin Coats:** Applying multiple thin coats of paint is almost always better than one thick coat. This prevents drips and ensures a more even finish.
- **Sanding:** Lightly sanding your PLA print before painting can create a better surface for the paint to stick to.
- **Sealer/Top Coat:** A clear sealer or top coat can protect your paint job and add extra durability.
Reducing Quality
- **Paint Not Designed for Plastic:** Using paints that aren’t meant for plastic can lead to poor adhesion, chipping, and a less smooth finish.
- **Painting Over Unprepared Surfaces:** Skipping primer or sanding can result in the paint not sticking well.
- **Thick, Uneven Coats:** This often leads to drips, brush marks, and an overall messy appearance.
- **Not Allowing Proper Drying Time:** Rushing the process can cause the paint to smudge or lift when you add more layers.
User Experience and Use Cases
How do people actually use paint on PLA, and what are the results like?
User Experience
Most users find acrylic paints easy to work with. They can be applied with brushes, sponges, or even airbrushes. Spray paints are quick but require good ventilation and care to avoid overspray. The key to a good user experience is patience and preparation.
Use Cases
- **Figurines and Miniatures:** Painting brings these small models to life with detailed colors.
- **Cosplay Props:** From helmets to weapons, painted PLA props look much more realistic.
- **Home Decor:** Add color and personality to vases, planters, or decorative items.
- **Functional Prints:** Paint can add a finished look to tool handles or organizers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Painting PLA
Q: What is the best type of paint for PLA?
A: Acrylic paints are generally the best and most versatile choice for PLA. They adhere well, are easy to use, and come in many colors. Plastic-specific spray paints are also a good option for smooth, even coverage.
Q: Do I need to prime PLA before painting?
A: While not always strictly necessary, priming your PLA print before painting is highly recommended. A good plastic primer improves paint adhesion, creates a smoother surface, and helps achieve a more vibrant color.
Q: Can I use regular house paint on PLA?
A: Regular house paint might not stick well to PLA and could chip or peel easily. It’s best to use paints specifically designed for plastics or craft paints like acrylics.
Q: How do I get a smooth finish on my PLA print?
A: To get a smooth finish, start by lightly sanding your PLA print. Then, apply thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before adding the next. Using a primer and a clear top coat can also help.
Q: Can I use oil-based paints on PLA?
A: Oil-based paints can be used on PLA, but they require mineral spirits or turpentine for cleanup and have stronger fumes. Acrylics are generally easier and safer to work with.
Q: How do I prevent paint from chipping off PLA?
A: Proper surface preparation, including priming and light sanding, is crucial. Applying thin coats of paint and using a durable top coat or sealer will also help prevent chipping.
Q: Can I paint directly onto raw PLA without any prep?
A: You can paint directly onto raw PLA, but the paint may not adhere as well and could be prone to chipping or scratching. Preparation significantly improves the final result.
Q: What is the best way to clean brushes after painting PLA with acrylics?
A: Clean your brushes immediately with soap and warm water after painting with acrylics. This prevents the paint from drying and hardening on the bristles.
Q: How long does paint typically take to dry on PLA?
A: Acrylic paints usually dry to the touch within 15-30 minutes, but they may need 24 hours or more to cure fully. Spray paints dry faster, often within minutes.
Q: Can I use nail polish on PLA?
A: Yes, nail polish can be used to paint small details on PLA prints. However, it might not be as durable as dedicated acrylics or plastic paints for larger areas.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.