A successful resin print does not end when the build plate rises out of the vat. The difference between a "good enough" model and a truly professional finish lies entirely in post-processing. Every LCD and MSLA user should master the cleaning, curing, support removal, and surface finishing workflow.
1. Washing: Remove Uncured Resin Completely
Fresh prints are covered in a film of uncured resin. If left on the surface, it cures unevenly, creating cloudy patches, sticky spots, and dimensional inaccuracy.
| Method | Duration | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| IPA 95%+ (ultrasonic) | 3-5 min | All resins | Fast but flammable - use ventilation |
| IPA 95%+ (manual) | 5-10 min | All resins | Agitate gently; use two-stage rinse |
| ANTINSKY Resin Detergent | 5-8 min | Standard/Lite resins | Non-flammable and water-compatible |
2. Support Removal (Before Curing)
Remove supports before final UV curing. Cured resin is harder and more brittle - supports that snap cleanly when soft will tear or leave deep scars after curing.
- Fine supports: Snap with flush cutters; minimal sanding
- Medium supports: Cut at contact point, then wet-sand (400 to 800 grit)
- Heavy supports: Use a heated blade or rotary tool for clean removal
- Pro tip: Soak in warm water (~40 degree C) for 30 seconds - supports pull away more easily
3. UV Curing: Getting the Timing Right
Under-curing leaves prints tacky and weak; over-curing causes brittleness and yellowing. Use a turntable curing station for even exposure.
| ANTINSKY Resin | Cure Time (405nm, turntable) | Target |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Lite / Standard | 3-5 min | Hard, non-tacky surface |
| ABS-Like / Tough / Impact | 5-8 min | Full mechanical strength |
| Dental Model / Guide | 6-10 min | High-temperature resistance |
| Castable Jewellery | 4-6 min | Avoid over-curing for burnout quality |
| Flexible / Elastic | 3-5 min | Shorter cure preserves elasticity |
4. Surface Finishing
- Sanding: Start at 400-grit wet/dry, progress to 800, 1200, 2000. Wet sanding minimizes dust.
- Priming: Automotive filler primer fills micro-layer lines. Apply 2-3 thin coats from 20 cm distance.
- Painting: Acrylic model paints adhere well to cured resin. Seal with clear coat.
- Polishing (clear resins): After sanding to 3000 grit, apply plastic polish with microfiber cloth to restore optical clarity.
Safety Reminder
Uncured resin is a skin irritant. Always wear nitrile gloves and safety glasses. Work in a ventilated area. Used IPA should be disposed of at a hazardous waste facility.
Master these steps with an easy-to-process resin. ANTINSKY Standard Lite Resin offers low odor and a forgiving cure window.