In this brief article I will show you how I smooth PLA after printing.
BEFORE:
AFTER:
Step 1. Rough Sand using a dremel
Get rid of any excess support material and major defects using coarse sandpaper or a dremel multitool. Wet and dry using warm soapy water.
Step 2. Fill holes with plastic putty
Cover rough surfaces with plastic putty and spread using fingers, leave some excess as we will be sanding this away after. I use, Masilla, it works great! Allow to dry for 2 hours.
Step 3: Sand excess putty
Using 400-600 grade sand paper, remove any excess putty leaving a flat, relatively smooth surface. Clean and dry prior to next step.
Step 4: Prime
Prime part using numerous light coats of primer. Allow 30 minutes between coats.
Step 5: Final Sand
Once the part is fully primed, sand using 800 grade, clean and dry and sand again using 1000 grade. Finally repeat the process with 1500 grade. Clean and dry and the part should be perfectly smooth ready for painting.
Step 6: Paint!