Caring for your 3D Prints
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Handling: When handling UV-cured resin miniatures, it's important to be gentle to avoid any unnecessary stress or damage. Avoid gripping them too tightly or applying excessive force, as this can lead to breakage or deformation.
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Cleaning: To clean your resin miniatures, you can use warm water and a mild dish soap. Gently scrub the surface with a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any dirt or residue. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents, as they may damage the resin or its finish. After cleaning, rinse thoroughly with clean water and pat dry with a soft cloth.
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Storage: Proper storage is crucial to maintain the quality of your resin miniatures. It's recommended to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Excessive heat can cause the resin to soften or deform. Consider using a display case, storage box, or foam-lined container to protect them from dust, moisture, and potential impacts.
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Avoid prolonged sunlight exposure: While UV-cured resin is generally more resistant to UV damage compared to other types of resin, it's still advisable to minimize prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Over time, UV rays can cause the resin to yellow or become brittle. If you want to display your miniatures in a well-lit area, consider using UV-protective glass or placing them away from direct sunlight.
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Additional curing: If you desire a more solid and rigid miniature, you can consider additional curing. While the resin is fully cured initially, it may retain some flexibility to assist with any impact or damage when shipping. If you wish to further solidify the resin, you can expose the miniature to additional UV light sources, such as a UV curing chamber or a UV nail lamp, for an extended period. However, be cautious not to overcure, as it can lead to excessive brittleness.
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Seepage: Whilst every effort has been made to drain any hollow parts of any uncured resin, on rare occasions seepage may occur from the drainage holes. If this happens, ensure to wash you hands and wear gloves whilst cleaning away any excess uncured resin. this can also be cured using any UV light source.
- Painting: If you plan to paint your resin miniatures, ensure that the surface is clean and free from any oils or residues. Lightly sanding the miniature with fine-grit sandpaper can help the paint adhere better. Use acrylic paints or hobby-specific paints suitable for resin models, as they provide good adhesion and flexibility. Apply thin layers of paint, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next. Once painted, you can seal the miniature with a varnish or clear coat to protect the paintwork.
Remember that each 3D printed resin miniature may have its unique properties, so it's always a good idea to test any paints on an inconspicuous area first. Following these care instructions should help you keep your UV-cured resin miniatures in excellent condition for years to come.