How to Smooth 3D Prints with Acetone - ABS Filament (2024)

One common challenge that users face is achieving a smooth, professional finish on your 3D prints. While acetone can be a valuable tool, many people don’t know how to use it. That’s why I wrote this article, to teach people how to smooth 3D prints with acetone.

To smooth 3D prints with acetone, you can either use the vapor smoothing method, which requires exposing your 3D print to acetone vapor within a container or you can try the brushing method, which consists of applying acetone with a brush on the 3D model. With the brushing method, you can be more precise.

This is just the basic answer, keep reading for more information on how to smooth 3D prints with acetone.

These are the two main methods to smooth 3D prints with acetone:

1. Vapor smoothing
2. Brushing

1. Vapor Smoothing

One of the most popular methods for smoothing out 3D prints with acetone is called vapor smoothing.

Vapor smoothing involves exposing your 3D print to acetone vapor, resulting in a uniform and consistent smoothing effect.

To follow this method, you’ll need the following materials:

• Acetone
• Container with a lid
• Paper towels
• Safety gear

You should set up your workspace in a well-ventilated area, ideally outdoors or near an open window. Super Nail Pure Acetone can be found over at Amazon with great reviews.

It’s important to make sure your 3D print is clean and free of any dust or debris, then pour a small amount of acetone into the container to create a shallow pool.

Elevate your 3D printed object inside the container, ensuring it does not make direct contact with the acetone, and close the container with a lid to create a sealed environment.

Allow the print to remain in the sealed container for approximately 5 to 10 minutes, keeping an eye on the progress to avoid over-smoothing.

After the designated time, check the print. If further smoothing is desired, repeat the process.

Remove the print from the container, wipe off any excess acetone, and let it air out in a well-ventilated area.

You can find the Klein Tools Safety Glasses and Cut Resistant Work Gloves PPE Kit for a great price over at Amazon.

One user stated that it has been a struggle to find reliable info on how to smooth PLA that does not involve sanding, so he appreciates this method a lot.

Another user emphasized the need for a container that effectively seals to contain acetone vapors, is resistant to acetone, appropriately sized for the 3D printed part, and capable of withstanding heat, as he used a heated bed set at 60°C.

He also cautioned against using containers made of materials like PLA or ABS, which can deform under these conditions.

You can find the mDesign Plastic Deep Storage Bin Box Container with Lid and Built-In Handles on Amazon for a great price.

In another user’s experience, they shared their process for acetone smoothing using Polymaker ASA filament to print a Benchy model. Their method involved a glass bowl.

They began by placing a few layers of paper towels at the bottom of the bowl. This served a dual purpose: to absorb excess acetone and increase the surface area for acetone to evaporate into the airspace.

You can find the Bounty Quick Size Paper Towels at Amazon if needed.

They added a few tablespoons of acetone to the bowl and placed a metal jar lid inside to support the 3D printed object, ensuring the object didn’t directly interact with the acetone.

To protect the bottom surface of the object from smoothing, they taped it with foil. The user then tightly covered the bowl with foil and left the assembly undisturbed for 15-60 minutes.

The duration can vary depending on the room’s temperature, with warmer rooms typically achieving quicker results. After removal, they recommended letting the gas off for a few hours.

The object’s surface may become gooey, so they advised using the metal lid or planning ahead to handle it without touching the printed part directly.

Take a look at how his 3D Benchy turned out:

Check out the video below for more information on how to smooth 3D prints with acetone.

2. Brushing

Another method to smooth 3D prints with acetone is called brushing.

Brushing is a method that offers more precise control over acetone application, enabling you to target specific areas of your 3D print.

To follow this method, you’ll need the following materials:

• Acetone
• Brush
• Paper towels
• Safety gear

You’ll need to make sure your 3D print is clean and free of debris, then use a brush or cloth to evenly spread the acetone.Apply acetone only where needed to prevent over-smoothing and wipe off any excess acetone.

One user stated that he’s been brushing his PLA prints in acetone for over five years and recommends using the Colorfabb PLA as it works well.

Another user recommends using a very fine paintbrush or a pipe cleaner on the inside of the printed object.He also suggested allowing this thin coat to naturally evaporate, which, when done correctly, should give a better result.

You can go with this Amazon Basics Paint Brush Set for a great price.

One 3D printing hobbyist recommended creating a slurry by mixing some of the same color filament with acetone in an appropriate container.

This slurry should be thick enough to wipe a thin, even coat on the print. He also suggested using materials that won’t leave a mess behind when applying the slurry.

He noted that it might take approximately 24 hours for the acetone smell to go away once the slurry is applied and advised newcomers to perform a practice run before attempting the process on their actual 3D printed part.

You can find the OXO Good Grips Deep Clean Brush Set on Amazon for a reasonable price.

Check out the video below for more information about how to smooth your 3D print with acetone.