Results with the existing finishing technique, left, and the new, improved polishing process, right (pictured: Bracelet Bluups Origami R by Bluups)
One of the biggest constants for our community (and anyone using 3D printing) is the desire for smoother finishes on your products. We are right there with you, so we’re incredibly excited to announce a new polishing process that will make your Black (including HP Black), Red, and Blue Strong & Flexible plastic 3D prints look and feel better than ever — with no added cost or production time.
This new finishing technique is made possible through a partnership with DyeMansion, whom we’ve worked with to improve polishing and dyeing results using their automated Powershot S finishing system. You’ll see surfaces that are smoother, subtly glossier, more scratch-resistant, and more consistent in hue, making this finish perfect for Strong & Flexible personal accessories like phone cases and jewelry.
The existing finish, left, and the new, glossier finish, right (pictured: the Prism Ring by Catherine De Bosscher)
If you’re part of our Shapeways Beta group (click here to check), this new finish is available starting today. When you order your own models in Black, Red, or Blue Strong & Flexible plastic (or HP Black Strong & Flexible), you’ll automatically receive products finished using this new technique. If you’d like to take part, but you’re not already in the Shapeways Beta group, you can join by opting in through your profile settings. You can switch back to the old process at any time by leaving the beta group (just uncheck the box).
Jake Stollery’s Data in Exile Parallax Glasses showing off their new sheen
If you love this new finish as much as we do, we’ll be expanding the technique to other colors in the Strong & Flexible plastics family. But, we’ll need your feedback to ensure that it’s everything it can be.
So join the Beta now, and make sure to let us know what you think!
Featured homepage image also includes the Bow Tie Mustache by UTB.
this looks promising look forward to reviews of printed models using this process
Since the strong and flexible plastics are quite sufficient for the scale wheels and other components we are producing, I am pleased I will have a smoother surface to work with. The coarseness of the prior prints required polishing each one in the lathe. Thank You!
Wow, looks promising! Any details on how it actually works? Is model fidelity lost? If anything, by the previews, the edges look even more crisp due to how light shines on the surfaces. How about items with small details? How are they affected?
Hello:
I am very interested in having some small industrial parts made in brass.
I have solid models created in solidworks. I can convert to stl files or any other form you require.
Please reply with exact instuctions on how to get these made.
I will join up .
look forward to working with you
Hi Anthony! Is this for a business application where you’ll need to order a large quantity, or would you like to just make a few prints? If you would just like to print from your files, you can upload the files and choose your materials by clicking the “Upload” button in the upper left of any Shapeways page. If you require business support, drop our sales team a line here: https://www.shapeways.com/for-business
Would love to try this too! How do I actually select this finish? Just select the polished version on the color I want?
That’s correct, Leon! As long as you’ve opted in to being a Beta tester, your prints will be finished using the new process.
I m beta tester I think , but I havent the black polished choice ! If I choose black he come with the new polishing finish ?
Yes indeed!