Can 3D Printed Parts Be Painted, Dyed, or Colored?

1. Yes — Multiple Options Available

2. Painting

Works on all technologies. Best with primer, spray paint, brush, or airbrush. Sand the surface first (220–400 grit). Use plastic-compatible primer. Multiple thin coats beat one thick coat.

3. Dyeing

Best for MJF Nylon parts. Color penetrates the surface (won’t chip or peel). Standard colors: black (most common), blue, red, green, yellow.

4. Built-In Color Options

• FDM — 15+ filament colors (color runs through entire part)

• SLA — Limited (clear, white, gray, black)

• Industrial SLA — Same as SLA but for large-format parts up to 1000 x 1000 x 600mm

• MJF — Natively white/gray, dyeing for color

• FGF — Very large parts up to 1800 x 1200 x 1100mm, 3mm min wall thickness

5. Makelab Post-Processing Services

• Custom painting (specify Pantone reference)

• dyeing

• Sanding and priming for paint-ready surfaces

• Clear coating for UV protection

Specify your color requirements when ordering or contact us.

Makelab's 3D printing services include quality inspection on every part. Based in Brooklyn, NYC, we offer post-processing, finishing, and custom options to meet your project requirements.

Learn more on our website:

• Post-Processing Options — sanding, painting, vapor smoothing, dyeing

• Materials Catalog — surface finish specs per material

• Design Guidelines — optimize parts for best finish