Can you help me choose the right finish for my part?
1. Yes — we help you pick the right finish every day
The right finish depends on how your part will be used and how you want it to look. Here are the main options, and when each makes sense.
2. Finish options
As-printed (standard) — The part comes off the printer cleaned with supports removed. Best for functional parts, prototypes, and anything where surface appearance is not critical. Included in the base price.
Sanded / smoothed — Layer lines are sanded down for a smoother surface. Good for FDM and SLA parts that will be handled, photographed, or prepped for paint. Reduces visible layer lines.
Painted — Custom painting for color and a finished look. Since we do not offer full-color printing, any specific color or multi-color appearance is achieved through custom painting. Best for presentation models, display pieces, and color-matched parts.
Dyed — Color is added by soaking the part in dye. Available for nylon (MJF) parts, giving an even color (commonly black) throughout the surface. A durable, cost-effective alternative to painting for functional nylon parts.
Smoothing (vapor / chemical) — A smoothing process that gives certain materials a glossy, injection-molded-like surface and removes layer lines. Best for parts that need a sealed or premium surface.
3. How to choose
Function over looks? As-printed is usually all you need.
Will be seen or handled? Consider sanding, then painting for a clean finished look.
Need a specific color? Use custom painting (or dyeing for nylon) — we do not print in full color.
Want a smooth, premium surface? Ask about sanding plus smoothing.
4. Finish by technology
FDM — As-printed, sanded, or painted. Larger layer lines, so sanding helps before paint.
SLA — Already smooth as-printed; sanding and painting available for display-quality results.
MJF — As-printed (matte gray) or dyed black; painting available for custom colors.
5. Not sure?
Tell us how the part will be used and we will recommend the right finish for your budget and timeline. Submit an intake form or get an instant quote.
We also provide full technical datasheets for every material we print — including tensile strength, elongation at break, and heat deflection — at makelab.com/materials.