Add full color graphics to 3D Printed parts with Hydro Dipping guide by Adafruit

Learn how to Add full color graphics to 3D Printed parts using Hydro Dipping technique!

Hey guys! guess what? I just found that, a few weeks ago, Adafruit published a full guide to hydro dipping your 3D prints and it is definitely a good option if you want to give a nice finish to all your projects but you’re not wiling to spend too much time and money. So here is a resume of the most relevant I found about Hydro Dipping:

1.- What hydro dipping actually is

Hydro Dipping is a post-processing method that allows you to wrap graphics around objects. People also calls Water Drape Film, Water Transfer or Inkjet Water Slide Decal Transfer to Hydro Dipping techniques. However, thanks to this method, you can add some pretty cool textures and full color graphics to your projects!

Although Hydro dipping is originally used on machined and injection molded parts, people found it also works really fine on 3D printed objects. It means Hydro dipping enables you to add high quality textures and graphics without sanding, priming or painting. What is more promising, it even works with visible layer lines that you get with 3D printed parts, which I personally find unsightly on most pieces.

2.- Now, here’s how Hydro Dipping basically works:

This type of PVA paper is called “Water Transfer Paper” and it’s mostly used for Hydro Dipping. PVA is the same material you can use for 3D printing dissolvable supports. Users reported it smells a lot like elmer’s glue and dissolves fairly well in hot water. The paper has a shiny PVA side and a matted backing you need to peel away (it reminds me temporary tattoo paper):

The PVA film dissolves when you submerge it in water. The ink then actually floats on the surface of the water. Once set, you can then dip an object over the ink and into the water; Just make sure you dip your pieces slowly at a 45 degree angle.

Here’s a list of some tools and supplies you’d need to start Hydro Dipping your 3D prints:

• Hot glue gun.
• Masking Tape.
• PVA Film Paper.
• Container.
• Sticks or Solid Core Wire.
• 2D inkjet printer.

Most of these materials are easy to find around, even if you’re not a full-time a maker.

Read the complete guide on https://learn.adafruit.com for plenty of  info about Hydro Dipping 3D prints, from graphics modifying to water temperature and more useful tips.

Stay with 3dprinterchat.com, more posts like this coming up soon!