How to Add Different Color Text to a 3D Print: A Design and Slicing Guide

Adding multi-color text to your 3D prints can elevate an ordinary object into a personalized, businesslike product. Standard Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printers normally print objects of one color, but adding text of variant colors is possible using the appropriate design approach as well as the correct slicer settings.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the complete process, from modeling multi-color text in CAD software to slicing techniques using tools like PrusaSlicer, Cura, and Bambu Studio. This is primarily from the model design perspective, which is the foundation of successful multi-material or color-layer prints.

Source: mohou.com

Why Add Multi-Color Text to 3D Prints?

Incorporating multi-color text provides several benefits:

● Improved visual communication – Leverage color to effectively highlight important text or symbols.

● Branding application - Embed colored logos or labels directly onto manufactured parts.

● Product customization - Offer personalized prints such as nameplates, trophies, or keychains.

● Functional distinction - Employ color-coded text for instructions or status indicators.

Designing Models for Multi-Color Text

The key to success starts in your 3D modeling software (CAD). Your model must be prepared with separate geometry for each color. Here's how to do that.

1.Select Appropriate Design Software

Commonly used software options include:

● Autodesk Fusion 360 - appropriate for precision modeling jobs.

● Tinkercad - A user-friendly tool great for beginners who are new to 3D modeling.

● Blender - Ideally suited for models that have complex or artistic geometries.

● FreeCAD - An open-source option for feature-based modeling.

2. Modeling Procedures for Color Separation

After designing the primary object or base model, incorporate the text using one of the following methods:

Method A: Raised or Recessed Text (Intended for Manual Filament Changes)

● Optimal Use Case: Standard FDM printers with a single extruder.

● Procedure:

○ Create the text geometry directly on the surface of the base model.

○ Raised Text (Embossed) - Extrude the text profile outward from the surface. A minimum of 0.4mm to 0.6mm, ideally 2–3 standard layer heights, is suggested for visibility. Utilize a "Join" or "Add" boolean command.

○ Debossed Text Recessed/Engraved) - Cut the text into the surface by extruding it inward, removing material. A depth between 0.4mm and 0.6mm is recommended for clear definition. Use a "Cut" or "Subtract" boolean operation.

○ Font Considerations - Choose bold, sans-serif fonts such as Arial Black for optimal print clarity, especially at small sizes.

Method B: Separate Text Objects (Intended for Multi-Material Systems - MMU/AMS/IDEX)

● Ideal application: Printers that support automatic filament swapping facilities (such as Prusa MMU, Bambu Lab AMS, IDEX architectures).

● Procedure:

○ Model the text as distinct, separate solid bodies.

○ Ensure precise positioning of the text bodies relative to the base model. Often, a corresponding cavity is created in the base model using a boolean "Cut" operation to accommodate the text bodies.

○ Export Strategy - Save the complete assembly as one file that maintains the individual bodies as well as their relative positioning. 3MF format is usually the preferred option for doing so. STEP or individual multi-body STL configurations can be appropriate as well. Exporting several individual STLs is normally not recommended because of alignment issues within the slicer.

Source: 3dprintinguk.com

Slicing the Model for Multi-Color Printing

The slicer program converts the designed model into step by step layer by layer instructions (G-code) for the 3D printer, including color change commands.

1. Choose a Proper Slicer

Recommended slicer applications are:

● PrusaSlicer - Offers robust support for manual color changes (M600 G-code) as well as for the Prusa MMU system.

● Ultimaker Cura - Use post-processing scripts such as "Pause at Height" or "Filament Change" for doing swaps manually.

● Bambu Studio / OrcaSlicer - Optimized for use with the Bambu Lab AMS multi-material system.

2. Slicing Procedures

Procedure for Method A (Raised/Recessed Text - Manual Swaps):

1. Import model; load your STL or 3MF file into the slicer.

2. Slice the model then enable the layer preview mode.

3. Identify the exact layer number where the text geometry first occurs.

4. Insert a pause or change command at the identified layer using the slicer interface:

a. PrusaSlicer/OrcaSlicer: Right-click on the '+' icon of the vertical layer slider bar for the target layer and choose → Add color change (M600)

b. In Cura: Go to Extension → Post Processing → Modify G-Code. Click on 'Add a script' then select 'Pause at height.' Configure it so it will pause at the exact Layer No. set previously.

5. Export the generated G-code then when printing, the printer will automatically pause at the specified layer, giving you time to remove the previous filament manually and insert the new one before resuming.

Procedure for Method B (Separate Text Objects - Multi-Material Systems):

1. Import your multi-body file (like a 3MF). The slicer should automatically see the different parts (base and text).

2. Assign each distinct part (base model, text elements) to a specific extruder or filament slot configured in the multi-material system (MMU/AMS).

3. Make sure there is the 'Wipe Tower' or 'Purge Block' is turned on under print settings. The support structure is employed for purging out of the nozzle during filament swaps, yielding smooth, clean transitions of colors, then adjust its settings accordingly.

4. Slice the model and export the G-code. The slicer automatically generates the necessary tool change commands and purging routines for the automated multi-material system.

Tips for High-Quality Multi-Color Text Prints

● Select colors with sufficient contrast to ensure text legibility.

● When using Method B, slightly raising the text for example 1 - 2mm can sometimes help mask minor imperfections at color boundaries. For Method A, make sure the text height or depth is equal to at least 2–3 times the standard layer height.

● Thoroughly clean the nozzle during manual filament changes to prevent color bleeding.

● Choose bold and easily readable fonts to ensure the best print quality.

● Carefully review the sliced model preview to verify correct color assignments and toolpaths before initiating the print.

Incorporating multi-color text into 3D prints is readily achievable through careful model design and appropriate slicer configuration. The secret to clean, vibrant results lies in how you design and separate your model before slicing.