The Best Way to Smooth 3D Prints (No Sanding)
PCBWay offers PCBs, 3D Printing, CNC and more services: https://pcbway.com/ [AD]
Achieve a flawless, glossy, injection-molded look with this complete guide to chemical smoothing! In this video, I test the best methods to hide layer lines on ABS, ASA, PVB, HIPS, and even PLA without hours of sanding. We’ll dive deep into vapor smoothing, dipping, and brushing techniques to see how they impact dimensional accuracy, scratch resistance, and layer adhesion.
Whether you are using a machine from Prusa, Bambu Lab, Creality or Elegoo, these post-processing secrets work across all FDM 3D printer brands. If you want professional, high-end results for cosplay, functional parts, or products you want to sell, this is the ultimate smoothing breakdown you’ve been waiting for!
🔗 Useful Links
Ethy Acetate Reddit Post: https://www.reddit.com/r/3Dprinting/comments/q4mw74/ethyl_acetate_smoothing_heres_how_to_do_it/?show=original
Prusa Blog Article: https://blog.prusa3d.com/improve-your-3d-prints-with-chemical-smoothing_36268/
3D Models shown in this video: https://www.printables.com/@JanTec/collections/3064789
Video about HIPS: https://youtu.be/BO_ck5FZi2A
Equipment used in this video:
Respirator: https://amzn.to/4bLq7op (aff)
IPA: https://amzn.to/4bNRs9k (aff)
Gloves: https://amzn.to/4rVEfRV (aff)
💚 Support Me
AliExpress Affiliate: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_oFiqj47 (aff)
Amazon Affiliate: https://amzn.to/45Q18OH (aff)
Prusa Affiliate: https://www.prusa3d.com/#a_aid=jantec (aff)
Use the code “@JanTec” and get Prusameters + free Filament with the purchase of your first Prusa 3D printer!
3DJake Affiliate: https://tidd.ly/4481AFX (aff)
Nobufil Affiliate: https://www.nobufil.com/?ref=JanTec (aff)
Get 15% off at Nobufil with the code “JANTEC”!
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X (Twitter): https://x.com/jan_tec
Printables: https://www.printables.com/@JanTec
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wegenerj/
📚 Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:50 Motivation
01:43 Chemical Smoothing Theory
02:59 Safety
03:38 ABS/ASA – Acetone
07:54 PCBWay
08:43 PVB – IPA
11:17 PLA – Smoothing Agent
13:18 Summary
#3dprinting
ℹ️ Disclaimer
The links marked with “(aff)” are affiliate links, which means that I receive a commission if you buy through the link – at no extra cost for you! As an Amazon partner, I earn from qualified sales.
Some of the products shown in the video were provided to me free of charge for testing/promotional purposes.
DISCLAIMER: Part of this video was sponsored by PCBWay.
FTC Disclaimer: A percentage of sales is made through Affiliate links
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