Prop Guide and FAQ's
🛠️ Complete Prop Finishing Guide
Thank you for purchasing your 3D printed prop! Our props ship as raw prints, which means you get the best price and the flexibility to finish and customize your prop exactly how you want.
Here is a clear, step-by-step guide to finishing your prop:
1️⃣ Inspect & Test Fit
✅ Carefully unbox your prop and inspect for all parts.
✅ Dry-fit pieces together to understand how they align before gluing.
✅ If the prop is in multiple parts, ensure alignment for a seamless final look.
2️⃣ Attaching Parts
✅ Recommended adhesive: Use epoxy glue (like JB Weld or 5-minute epoxy) for strong, durable bonds.
✅ Apply glue evenly to the edges, align parts, and hold/clamp until set.
✅ Wipe off excess glue immediately with a paper towel.
Tip: For small alignment issues, use clamps or tape to hold parts while curing.
3️⃣ Initial Sanding
✅ Sand to remove visible layer lines and smooth seams.
✅ Recommended sandpaper grits:
120 grit: For initial smoothing and removing larger lines.
220 grit: For refining surfaces after initial sanding.
✅ Use a sanding block or flexible sanding sponge for curves.
Tip: Wear a dust mask while sanding, as PLA dust is fine.
4️⃣ Applying Filler & Filler Primer
✅ For seams or gaps, use spot putty or Bondo glazing putty. Apply, let dry, then sand with 220 grit.
✅ Once seams are filled, use Filler Primer Spray (such as Rust-Oleum Filler Primer) to fill small layer lines.
✅ Apply 2–3 light coats of filler primer, letting it dry as per instructions on the can.
5️⃣ Sanding After Primer
✅ After primer is fully dry, sand again:
Use 320–400 grit sandpaper for smoothing the primed surface.
For a very smooth finish, wet sanding with 400–600 grit is recommended.
✅ Check for any remaining imperfections and repeat filler primer if needed.
6️⃣ Painting
✅ Use spray paints suitable for plastics.
✅ Apply light, even coats to avoid drips.
✅ Allow to dry fully between coats.
Tip: Use a rotating stand or hang the prop to spray evenly.
7️⃣ Sanding Between Coats (Optional)
✅ For an ultra-smooth finish, lightly wet sand with 600 grit after your first paint coat has fully dried before applying your final coat.
8️⃣ Final Coat & Sealing
✅ Apply your final paint coat, ensuring even coverage.
✅ Once the paint is fully dry, apply a clear coat to seal and protect your paint job.
✅ Options include matte, satin, or gloss finishes depending on your preference.
9️⃣ Curing & Handling
✅ Allow at least 24–48 hours for the paint and clear coat to fully cure before heavy handling or wearing your prop for cosplay.
🎨 Tips for Best Results
✅ Work in a well-ventilated area.
✅ Patience is key—allow proper drying time between steps.
✅ If adding weathering effects, you can use acrylic paints with a sponge or brush for battle-worn finishes before sealing.
🚀 You're Ready!
By following these steps, you will achieve a professional-looking prop ready for your next convention or photoshoot.
📏 How to Check Head Size
Most helmets are sized in centimeters (cm) for head circumference.
Steps:
1. Use a measuring tape around your forehead above your eyebrows and ears.
2. Note the measurement in inches.
3. Compare with our helmet sizing in the product description to confirm fit.
Tip: If your size is close to the helmet’s max, light sanding or padding adjustments may help fine-tune the fit.
❓ FAQs
Q: Is the prop ready to wear/paint?
A: Our props are shipped as raw prints. Light sanding, priming, and painting are needed for best finish.
Q: Do you offer finished/painted props?
A: At the moment, we only offer raw prints, but we may add painted props in the future.
Q: What material is used?
A: We use high-quality esun PLA plus filament for durability and detail.
Q: Which 3D printers do you use?
A: We use the Creality K1 Max and Elegoo Neptune Series printers to ensure high-quality, detailed prints for your cosplay props.
Q: How long does it take to finish a prop?
A: Printing a prop usually takes 2–3 days depending on its size and complexity. However, since print failures can occasionally happen (which is normal in 3D printing), we ask for 5–7 days of processing time to ensure your prop is printed properly and with high quality before shipping.
🤔 Have more questions?
Don’t worry, we’re here for you!
You can use the live chat on our store or email us anytime at:
📧 artsintech@gmail.com
We’re happy to help you finish your prop and get the best results for your cosplay.