Model Making - From ABS to Ceramic and Wood

3D printed ABS objects can be transformed using some basic materials to look like various realistic surfaces. This cup and base were first printed in blue ABS and were transformed to look like a wood base and a ceramic cup.

Materials:

(Access to) 3D printer

Acetone

Sandpaper (dry or wet)

Plastic primer (white/light color)

Spray paint (Nutmeg satin/matte, white gloss)

Step 1: Solidworks to 3D Printing

The solidworks model (exported as an STL) is 3D printed in ABS plastic. The model has a lined texture from the layering nature of the 3D printing process - the thickness of the layers depends on the precision of the printer.

Step 2: Smoothing ABS Texture

In order to smooth the ABS lines, the model is sanded and brushed with acetone (which dissolves the ABS slightly) to create a smooth finish. (The process can be repeated multiple times for the desired result.)

Step 3: Priming

The models are sprayed with primer compatible with plastic 2-3 times with about a half an hour drying period in between. The surfaces are sanded slightly with waterproof sand paper in between coats.

Step 4: Spray Painting

The cup is sprayed with 3 coats of white glossy spray paint with about an hour drying time in between. The same is done with the wooden base with nutmeg brown spray paint (satin as opposed to glossy). The models are sanded as necessary.