🛠️ Preparation & Post-Processing Steps
This product requires multiple mandatory preparation steps in the slicer, assembly with a pump, and a mandatory painting process.
Slicer Preparation (Resin & FDM)
To ensure material efficiency and print success, you must use your slicer software to:
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Hollow: Hollow the entire model.
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Delete Bottom: MANDATORY FOR RESIN/FDM EFFICIENCY. Delete the flat bottom surface of the model (using a plane cut or other slicer tool) to reduce resin usage and print time.
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Add Drainage/Water Holes: Add drainage holes to the top surface of the model (for easy removal of uncured resin) and to allow water to enter the final structure if desired for ballasting.
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Supports: Add supports throughout the interior and exterior to ensure all overhangs print correctly.
Sealing Drainage Holes (Resin Only)
After washing and initial curing, the top drainage holes MUST be sealed to complete the model. Use a small dab of liquid UV resin and cure it instantly with a UV light/pen.
🎨 MANDATORY Realistic Painting Guide
To achieve the intended result and safely seal the model for habitat use, painting and sealing are MANDATORY.
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Base Coat: Apply a solid, opaque color (dark grey or black) across the entire surface. Let this layer dry completely.
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Detail Rub: Take a small amount of light grey or tan acrylic paint on a dry brush. Lightly brush across the raised rock and block texture. The lighter color will catch the raised edges, enhancing the weathered stone realism.
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Safety Seal (CRITICAL): Once all paint is dry, seal the entire model (interior and exterior) with a coat of gloss or matte clear acrylic spray paint. This step is required for waterproofing the paint and protecting the color from water degradation.
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Curing: Let the sealed model sit for a minimum of 24 hours before introducing it to the habitat.
Cleaning (CRITICAL)
Before placing the final assembled tag in your habitat, wash it thoroughly with hot, non-soapy water. A final thorough rinse is mandatory.
📦 Required External Tools
The following materials are required to complete the functional connection system and are not included with the STL files.
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