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4th Jul 2021, 4:57 pm | #1 |
Triode
Join Date: Oct 2020
Location: Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK.
Posts: 47
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3D printed button colour
Hello, Any ideas on what I can do to get the Bakelite colour for the control button? Would it be easier to paint the original one a modern colour to match the 2 that I have printed out?
Thanks, Barry. |
4th Jul 2021, 7:52 pm | #2 |
Nonode
Join Date: Mar 2008
Location: Virginia Water, Surrey, UK.
Posts: 2,879
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Re: 3D printed button colour
Apparently dyes designed for polyester work well, but take care if using heated dye to improve colour, as PLA deforms at a surprisingly low temperature. It would probably be best to print a full set of new knobs and dye them the same way.
Even alcohol-based Sharpie pens can be used for colouring, although I have not tried. Let us know how you get on! -Jeremy
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5th Jul 2021, 12:23 am | #3 |
Nonode
Join Date: Oct 2010
Location: Tintinara, South Australia, Australia
Posts: 2,342
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Re: 3D printed button colour
You can paint 3d prints - some detail here https://3dinsider.com/how-to-paint-pla/
A 'net search with 'painting PLA' will bring more info. |
5th Jul 2021, 7:50 am | #4 |
Octode
Join Date: Sep 2009
Location: Bath, Somerset, UK.
Posts: 1,033
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Re: 3D printed button colour
Hi, I agree.
Make a whole set and paint/dye them all the same. Then you will have what looks like an intentional set, rather than a mis-match. Alternatively, you could visit Retrotech and find a replacment in the bins of spares people have. I've found every control knob replacment I've needed at such places. The printed ones will be fine until you find an original or three. SEAN
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26th Jul 2021, 12:15 am | #5 |
Diode
Join Date: May 2021
Location: Chichester, West Sussex, UK.
Posts: 6
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Re: 3D printed button colour
I have changed from PLA to PETG as I found this works better at the higher temps and is waterproof.
I have been creating some buttons & knobs for a flight sim project I've been working on for a while. I used Halfords primer and various Tamiya acrylic paints or Halfords spray paints on top with good effect on both PLA and PETG. Just be patient between coats and don't make them too thick as I got a crackle effect when I was impatient and laid on a lot of paint at once. Remember to key the print first with sandpaper. |