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 1700 x 800 x 600mm (≈66.9 x 31.5 x 23.6 in)
MJF — Natively white/gray, dyeing for color
FGF — Very large parts up to 2400 x 2400 x 1000mm (≈94.5 x 94.5 x 39.4 in), 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