Sanding 3D prints

When you want to start post processing your 3D print, most of the time sanding down is the first real step (after removing the support and brim). Sanding 3D prints is the first step before you start adding finishing layers like primer and paint. By sanding down a 3D print you can be a good technique to reduce the layer lines and remove edges and small blobs.

Depending on the model you printed and what settings you used, the sanding time can differ.

5 tips for sanding 3D prints

1. It’s important to take your time and don’t hast yourself to make sure you don’t damage the 3D print during the sanding.
2. Keep moving the sander over the printed part, don’t stay in pone place too long. This could generate so much heat due to the sanding friction, it could melt the filament.
3. Start with a bigger grain size, for example 120, and move up to finer sizes, at least 240 and preferably higher.
4. Watch out when sanding fine parts, round surfaces, and other small or difficult to reach places of the 3D print
5. Make sure you don’t sand to long, this could give imperfections to the sanded surface and change the dimensional accuracy