|
This application note is a guide for Objet 3D Printing System' users on how to enhance the detail, color and creativity of their FullCure™ models by applying special color dye techniques.
Highlighting one part of a model can bring the whole assembly to life. You can create a compelling presentation by adding a visual accent to any FullCure™ model using these simple dyeing and painting techniques.
The examples detailed in this application note were applied to models created by Legacy Effects for Microsoft’s Halo 3 marketing campaign. The photos capture models that were printed in FullCure™ model materials and custom dyed to create a lifelike appearance.
Example #1 - Halo 3 ODST Soldier
Standing an impressive 15 inches tall, this Halo 3 ODST Soldier figure was printed on a Connex™500 as an assembly. It was made from four Digital Materials™ which had been created by combining Objet’s VeroWhite™ and VeroBlack™ base materials. The clear visor lens was printed separately in Objet’s FullCure®720 transparent material. The post-processing techniques detailed below were then applied.
Post-processing Techniques to Achieve Lifelike Characteristics
1. Cleaning
The foundation for an effective and durable painted model requires thorough post-processing finishing techniques. [Note: Due to the nature of this model and the quality of the printing, no sanding was required.]
- First, remove all support material from the model using the WaterJet station
- Soak the model in 2% NaOH water-diluted solution for approximately 30 minutes
- Rinse the model again in the WaterJet station to remove all residues
- Allow the model to dry completely
- Clean all surfaces with a lint free cloth and isopropyl alcohol (>90%)
2. Applying Dye
After the cleaning and drying process is complete, applying dye is as simple as mixing common clothing dye in water and soaking the part in the solution. In this example, the lens was placed in warm water mixed with royal blue dye for 10 to 20 minutes.
- 4 ounces warm water
- 2 tablespoons powdered dye
• Tip: Add more powdered dye for a darker or more intense color
- Soak model part in dye and water solution
- Remove the part from the solution and allow to dry completely
Materials used:
• Common clothing dye
3. Clear Coat
It is recommended that you seal the model by spraying it with a clear coat varnish or lacquer.
- Cover all surfaces with a clear coat varnish
- Allow the part to dry completely
Materials used:
4. Assembly
The face of the ODST Soldier model was painted a bright, metallic silver to create a reflective surface behind the visor lens. After the paint had dried completely, the dyed lens was carefully glued into place.
- Brush paint the model's facial area with a bright, silver paint
- Allow the model to dry completely
- Apply a small bead of cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesive to the lens' edges
- Press lens in place
Materials used:
- Silver, metallic model paint
- Acrylic or watercolor brush
- CA adhesive (super glue)
5. Materials List
Dye
- Rit All-Purpose Concentrated Clothing Dye
Paints
- Model Master Enamel Paint
Finishes
- Krylon Acrylic Crystal Clear Spray Finish
Tools
- Acrylic or watercolor brush
Example #2 - Halo 3 Needler Weapon
This rather intimidating weapon was printed on a Connex™500 in four Digital Materials™ as an assembly. The Digital Materials™ had been created by combining Objet’s VeroWhite™ and VeroBlack™ base materials. The needles were printed separately in FullCure™720. The post-processing techniques detailed below were then applied.
Post-processing Techniques to Achieve Lifelike Characteristics
1. Cleaning
The foundation for an effective and durable painted model requires thorough post-processing finishing techniques. [Note: Due to the nature of this model and the quality of the printing, no sanding was required.]
- First remove all support material from the model using the WaterJet station
- Soak the model in 2% NaOH water-diluted solution for approximately 30 minutes
- Rinse in the WaterJet station to remove all residues
- Allow the model to dry completely
- Clean all surfaces with a lint free cloth and isopropyl alcohol (>90%)
2. Applying Dye
After the cleaning and drying process is complete, applying dye is as simple as mixing common clothing dye in water and soaking the model part in the solution. In this example, the needles were placed in warm water with rose pink dye for 10 to 20 minutes.
- 4 ounces warm water
- 2 tablespoons powdered dye
• Tip: Add more powdered dye for a darker or more intense color
- Soak model in dye and water solution
- Remove from solution and allow the part to dry completely
3. Painting
Paint can be applied to help enhance the lifelike characteristics of your model. In this example, each needle was painted with an acrylic iridescent medium to create a translucent, metallic effect.
- Brush paint the clean, dry surfaces of the model with iridescent medium
- Proceed to next steps while parts are tacky
Materials used:
- Iridescent medium
- Acrylic or watercolor brush
4. Applying Pigment
Applying pigments can also enhance your model by adding vibrancy and intensity. The needles, while still tacky, were dusted with a bright, pink-blue pearlescent powdered pigment.
- Place tacky needles in pigment powder and dust all surfaces
- Carefully remove from the powder and lightly blow or shake off excess powder
Materials used:
5. Finishing
It is recommended that you seal the model by spraying it with a clear coat varnish or lacquer.
- Cover all surfaces of the clean, dry model with a clear coat varnish
- Allow the model to dry completely
Materials Used:
6. Assembly
Once the clear coat had dried completely, the needles were placed in the mounting slots on the main body of the weapon.
7. Materials List
Dye
- Rit All-Purpose Concentrated Clothing Dye
Paints
- Liquitex Iridescent Medium
Pigments
- Jacquard Pearl Ex Pigments
Finishes
- Krylon Acrylic Crystal Clear Spray Finish
Tools
- Acrylic or watercolor brushes
|