3D printing in colors
At Rapid Prototyping, we offer color 3D printing for companies that want to provide their prototypes and final parts with a high-quality and consistent color finish. With our techniques, such as SLS color impregnation and SLA color coating, we realize parts with a professional look. Perfect for presentation, functional tests or small series.
Our approach suits engineers and product developers who want to use color for design validation, branding or product visualization, without the immediate need for expensive injection molds. Upload your 3D file and instantly calculate the cost of your 3D color project. Don't have a 3D file? Then please contact us directly.
Fast and accurate
Our processes are designed for speed without compromising on precision. This provides you with functional models that fit exactly within your design at lightning speed.
Affordable
We combine efficient production with smart planning, so you never pay too much. That way you get the most out of your budget, with no surprises afterwards.
Good quality
Our parts meet high standards and are suitable for functional testing and end use. Every detail is checked for dimensional accuracy, finish and strength.
25+ years of experience
We help the manufacturing industry with customized solutions in prototyping and production. We translate these years of expertise into reliable advice and consistent quality.
What are the options for color 3D printing?
At Rapid Prototyping, we use two high-quality coloring techniques to match the materials we work with:
SLS color impregnation
For SLS parts, we offer a durable color impregnation. Here the color penetrates deep into the surface, making the parts wear-resistant and the color does not easily peel off. Ideal for functional prototypes or small series in one specific color.
SLA coating in color
At SLA printing, we work with transparent or neutral resins that we professionally coat in any color after printing. This method gives a smooth finish with an aesthetic close to injection molding. Perfect for design models, housings or parts where the visual appearance is decisive.
These techniques allow us to 3D print multiple colors within a single project, treating different parts separately and bringing them together into a single product presentation or prototype. More questions? Plan an informal consultation.
Benefits of color 3D printing
Realistic product presentation
3D printing in color makes it possible to present prototypes that are close to the final product. This gives you a clear picture of shape, style and design. Even before tooling is created.
Cost-effective alternative to injection molding colors
For small runs or prototypes injection molding with pigments is often not cost-effective. With our coloring techniques, you can still achieve professionally colored parts without high start-up costs.
Suitable for branding and design validation
Our color finishes help you make corporate colors, accent lines or product variations clearly visible, ideal for marketing, trade show presentations and internal decision-making.
Request a quote directly
For your 3D printing project in color
Want to know which color technique is best for your application? Upload your 3D file via our online calculator or request a quote to. Don't have a 3D file? Then please contact us directly. View our selection matrix to determine the best material for your project.
We would be happy to advise you on SLS color impregnation or SLA coating to give your parts just the right look and functionality. Start 3D printing in color at Rapid Prototyping right away. Sleek, professional and exactly as intended.
Materials and techniques for 3D printing color
In Rapid Prototyping, we employ the following techniques for color application:
- SLS (Nylon PA12): color impregnation for lasting color quality
- SLA (Resin): coating/lacquering for a smooth, tight and uniform surface
These techniques offer a professional approach to 3D printing color, much more consistent than filament prints and considerably tighter in finish. We deliberately do not work with full-color filament printers or medical color models. Our focus is on industrial quality and technical applications.
FDM printing with PLA and ABS: maximum color freedom
When it comes to color 3D printing, FDM offers the widest variety of basic colors. Materials such as PLA and ABS are available in a very wide color palette, including specific RAL colors.
This makes FDM particularly suitable for visual models, marketing prototypes, or concept parts where color is more important than mechanical performance. For functional, industrial applications, we generally recommend stronger techniques such as SLS or SLA, where color is applied via impregnation or coating. This allows us to combine aesthetics with technical reliability.
Frequently asked questions about 3D printing in color
What colors are possible with color 3D printing?
At SLA, we can coat parts in virtually any RAL or custom color. At SLS, we work with impregnation color systems that soak deep into the nylon, available in multiple solid shades. This allows us to deliver both eye-catching prototypes and functional parts in a consistent color.
Can you 3D print multiple colors in one model?
Not in one printed piece, but in one project. Different parts can be finished separately in color and then joined together. This is ideal for products with accent colors or variations.
What is the difference between impregnation and coating?
Impregnation soaks into the material (SLS nylon), making the color wear-resistant. Coating is applied to the outside (SLA), which produces an extremely smooth and high-quality finish similar to injection molding.