X-ACTO #1 Z-Series Precision Utility Knife

The Z-Series is the go-to precision knife for 3D printing cleanup. The aluminum handle gives you fine control when trimming support nubs on intricate models — something bulkier cutters can’t match. At under $7 with a safety cap included, it’s the first tool every printer owner should own.

NOVUS Plastic Clean & Shine 3-Pack — Fine, Heavy Scratch + Polish Mates

The Novus 3-pack (Clean & Shine #1 + Fine Scratch Remover #2 + Heavy Scratch Remover #3) is the standard finishing system for resin prints and polished FDM parts. Apply #3 first for deep scratches, then #2 for fine surface haze, then #1 for a final glossy buff. The result on sanded resin can look genuinely glass-like.

Polymaker Polysher — Desktop Vapor Smoothing Station

The Polysher is the only purpose-built desktop vapor smoothing unit. It uses Polymaker’s Layer-Free™ technology to create a fine mist of isopropyl alcohol inside a sealed chamber, evenly smoothing PolySmooth and PolyCast prints to a glossy, layer-free finish. Far safer than DIY acetone chambers — no open solvent, no flammable vapors loose in the air — and produces more consistent results than any DIY method.

Inokraft Portable Sand Blaster Gun Kit — Oil-Water Separator

A compact, portable sandblaster that works with aluminum oxide, glass beads, walnut shells, and soda. The built-in oil-water separator keeps moisture out of the blast media — critical for consistent results on resin and metal prints. Compatible with most home compressors, and the extension nozzle reaches into tight areas on larger models.

Tamiya Gray Fine Surface Primer L — 180ml Spray

Tamiya’s Fine Surface Primer is the standard primer for miniatures and display models. The ultra-fine formula reveals surface imperfections without adding visible texture of its own — so you can see exactly what needs another sanding pass before committing to topcoats. Dries in 30 minutes, sands easily to a near-perfect base.

Krylon UV-Resistant Clear Gloss — 11oz Aerosol

This is the spray varnish I use on every painted print before display. The UV-resistant formula prevents yellowing and color fading on painted PLA — a major issue with unprotected prints left near windows. Dries tack-free in under an hour and builds a durable, flexible clear coat that won’t crack as the print flexes slightly over time.

SEEKONE Mini Heat Gun — 350W, 2-Temp Settings

At 350W with two temperature settings (500°F / 842°F), the SEEKONE Mini is ideal for 3D printing post-processing. The lower setting handles PLA stringing and light layer blending without warping; the higher setting works for PETG and vinyl wrapping cosplay props. The 4.9ft cord keeps you mobile around large prints, and overload protection makes it safe for extended sessions.

SUNLU Filament Dryer E2 — 110°C Max, Dry & Anneal 2-in-1

Most filament dryers max out at 50°C — useless for engineering filaments and annealing. The SUNLU E2 goes up to 110°C with a 500W PTC heater and dual chambers, making it the only consumer dryer that handles PC, PA-CF, and FR-ABS drying and doubles as an annealing unit for finished prints. If you work with engineering filaments, this is a significant upgrade over budget options.

Related: Ultimate Guide to 3D Printer Filament Dryers

Premium Ethyl Acetate 99.5% Purity — 250mL (For PLA)

Ethyl acetate is the closest thing PLA has to an acetone equivalent. At 99.5% purity, this bottle from CCS Consolidated works reliably for surface smoothing PLA in a controlled vapor chamber — always test on a scrap piece first, as ethyl acetate affects PLA more slowly and less predictably than acetone on ABS. The 250mL bottle provides ample volume for many sessions.

Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) 4oz — For PETG Smoothing

MEK (methyl ethyl ketone) is the correct solvent for PETG chemical smoothing — acetone barely touches PETG, but MEK dissolves and softens the surface layer effectively. Use in a well-ventilated area, apply with a brush or in a small vapor chamber, and test on scrap first. The 4oz bottle from Caseway provides a practical quantity for controlled smoothing experiments.

Comgrow UV Resin Curing Light — 405nm, 360° Rotating Turntable

Under $20, this UV curing light with solar-powered rotating stand handles basic resin curing for anyone who doesn’t yet own a wash-and-cure station. The 405nm wavelength matches all standard resins, and the 360° turntable ensures even exposure without manually rotating the print. The enclosed DIY curing enclosure is included, which also protects your eyes from UV exposure during curing.

MAS Epoxies Table Top Pro — 1 Gallon, Crystal Clear

MAS Epoxies Table Top Pro is the self-leveling, glass-like epoxy finish for 3D prints that need to look professional. Apply one thin coat over a primed surface and it self-levels to fill micro layer lines completely — no additional sanding needed. The 1-gallon kit covers multiple large prints. It remains crystal clear without yellowing, even over painted surfaces.

J-B Weld KwikWeld — 6-Minute Set, Steel-Reinforced Epoxy

Where MAS Epoxies is about aesthetics, J-B Weld KwikWeld is about strength. This steel-reinforced, 6-minute set epoxy is what I reach for when bonding functional printed parts — brackets, mounts, enclosure hinges, and repair jobs that need impact resistance. It bonds reliably to PLA, PETG, and ABS, and cures hard enough to be drilled and tapped after 4–6 hours.