Multi-Color 3D Printing: Methods, Costs, and Tips

Adding Color to Your Prints

Multi-color prints command higher prices. A painted Pikachu sells for €5. A cleanly multi-color printed one sells for €15+. Here's how to do it.

Method 1: AMS / Multi-Material System

Systems like Bambu Lab AMS or Prusa MMU automatically swap filaments during printing.

Pros: Clean color transitions, fully automated, repeatable results. Cons: Expensive (€200-400 for the system), significant filament waste from purge towers.

Method 2: Manual Filament Swap

Pause the print at specific layer heights and manually change the filament. Free, but limited to color changes by layer.

Pros: Free, works on any printer. Cons: Only horizontal color splits, requires babysitting.

Method 3: Post-Processing (Painting)

Print in a neutral color and paint afterward. Spray paint for large areas, acrylic for details.

Pros: Unlimited colors and patterns, works on any printer. Cons: Labor intensive, requires skill, adds significant time cost.

Cost Impact

AMS multi-color printing wastes 30-50% more filament due to purge towers. A print that uses 50g of filament might consume 75g total. Factor this waste into your pricing.

Best Approach by Volume

• 1-10 prints: Paint them manually
• 10-50 prints: Manual filament swap if possible
• 50+ prints: AMS system pays for itself in labor savings

Use our calculator to see how purge waste affects your material costs.