There are all sorts of solvents that can be used to smooth the surface of a 3D print: acetone, butanone, tetrahydrofuran, and other toxic chemicals (which can now be safely recycled!); there are also the solutions designed specifically for 3D prints, such as XTC-3D. Now UK-based SLS 3D has developed a new finishing material you may want to check out. Finissage 1069 is a fine grain paste made from alkyd resins and nitrocellulose, and according to SLS 3D, it’s incredibly easy to use.
“Now my base is amazingly smooth and ready to finish with paint or lacquer. Finissage is resin based which allows it to adhere easily to any surface without crumbling or cracking,” says Parker. “I’ve learnt from this exercise that you only need the smallest amount of filler, the better I get at applying the filler, the sooner I will the get the smooth finish I want. Other than that it is easy to use and to sand, even for a novice to achieve a professional looking finish.”
Finissage has a major convenience factor in its easy application and quick drying time, and it’s sold in only one part as opposed to your typical two-part epoxy fillers. It’s still in the pre-order stage, but is expected to ship this month from SLS 3D, which is a brand new company whose website just went live last month. While they’re obviously just getting started, they have already set themselves up as a reseller for some popular brands like Mass Portal’s Pharaoh 3D printers, Polymaker’s filaments, and Agisoft PhotoScan scanning software. In addition to Finissage, SLS 3D also offers a few of its own accessories, such as a nozzle cleaning kit. In June they will be releasing their own 3D scanner, the SLS X400, and the company promises that more 3D printing and scanning accessories will be coming soon. Keep an eye out for further developments from this new company, and in the meantime, why not give Finissage a try? You can never have too many good finishing tools. What are your thoughts on this information? Discuss in the Finishing 3D Prints forum over at 3DPB.com.