Welcome to the Makeaboolz Tips & Tricks blog. This guide walks you through the basic process of preparing, painting, and finishing your blank paintable toy—no prior experience required. Whether you are crafting with kids, customizing a desk collectible, or creating a display piece, these steps will help you get the best result.
1. Sanding Support Marks (If Needed)
Because each toy is 3D printed, small bumps or marks may remain where supports were removed during production. This is normal and easy to fix.
What you’ll need
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Fine-grit sandpaper (220–400 grit)
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Optional: sanding sticks or nail files for small areas
How to do it
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Lightly sand only the raised areas or rough spots
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Use gentle pressure to avoid flattening sculpted details
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Focus on seams, undersides, or less visible areas first
Many toys require little to no sanding, so treat this as an optional step based on your preference.
2. Wash and Rinse Before Painting
Before applying paint, it is important to remove any dust, oils, or residue from handling.
Steps
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Rinse the toy under warm water
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Use a small amount of mild dish soap if needed
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Gently scrub with your fingers or a soft brush
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Rinse thoroughly and let air dry completely
A clean surface helps paint and primer adhere evenly.
3. Apply Primer (Optional but Recommended)
Priming is not required, but it can improve paint coverage and color consistency—especially for lighter colors.
Why prime
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Helps paint stick better
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Reduces visible brush strokes
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Creates a uniform base color
How to apply
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Use a brush-on acrylic primer or spray primer
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Apply thin, even coats
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Let dry fully before painting
White or light gray primers work best for most projects.
4. Paint with Water-Based Acrylics
Water-based acrylic paints are ideal for DIY paintable toys. They are affordable, easy to use, and clean up with water.
Best practices
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Use thin layers rather than one thick coat
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Let each layer dry before adding another
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Start with larger base colors, then add details
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Use smaller brushes for eyes, patterns, and accents
Do not worry about perfection—hand-painted variation is part of the charm.
5. Seal with a Clear Coat (Optional)
Sealing your finished toy protects the paint and gives it a polished look.
Clear coat options
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Brush-on acrylic sealer
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Spray can clear coat
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Airbrush clear coat (advanced option)
Tips
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Choose matte, satin, or gloss based on your style
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Apply light coats to avoid drips
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Let cure fully before handling or displaying
Sealing is recommended if the toy will be handled often.
6. Display, Photograph, and Share
Once finished, your toy is ready to enjoy.
Ideas
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Display it on a shelf, desk, or art wall
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Photograph it in natural light for best results
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Share your creation with friends or online
We love seeing what you make—every painted toy is one of a kind.
Final Tip
There is no “right” way to paint your toy. Experiment, take your time, and most importantly, have fun. Each Makeaboolz toy is designed to be a blank canvas—what you create is entirely up to you.
More tips, techniques, and inspiration coming soon.
