Matte: a softer, diffuse surface
A matte surface scatters light rather than reflecting a sharp highlight. The detailed ordinary-matte route describes removing support and water-soluble residue, manual blasting and a light oil-based surface treatment. It retains faint layer or contact marks and a fine frosted feel. A treatment can dry with time, so care depends on the coating actually supplied.
The guide also mentions a ceramic-like matte appearance, but does not give a complete process or availability specification for it. A ceramic-like finish request therefore needs confirmation; it does not change the printed body into ceramic.
UV gloss: coating, dipping and curing
The UV gloss route dips the printed piece in UV varnish and cures the coating under UV light. The resulting film creates brighter highlights, a fuller surface and deeper-looking colors, sometimes compared with piano lacquer. On clear sections, the coating can reduce the frosted appearance and improve perceived clarity.
A protective coating does not establish a certified drop resistance, waterproof rating or outdoor lifetime. A miniature can still break at a narrow wrist, glasses frame or hanging loop. Gloss describes surface reflection, not a metal or mirror printing material.
Marks to expect from the coating process
| Feature | Why it can occur | What to review |
|---|---|---|
| Slight dryness at high points or tips | Varnish flows under gravity before curing | Small tips and raised details in the approved shape |
| Pooling in narrow recesses | Varnish viscosity and close gaps | Finger gaps and fine recessed detail |
| A mark underneath the item | A hanging rod is removed after dipping | Underside rather than the main display surface |
| Reduced gloss after repeated rubbing | Surface wear from handling | Care and placement of frequently handled charms |
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Choose by display purpose
Matte is useful when a softer surface and restrained highlights suit the portrait, or for a model trial with a simpler finish. UV gloss can suit a colorful display, a glossy charm or a clear section where stronger highlights are desired. Discuss the budget, fine recesses, texture visibility and intended handling before selecting a coating.
Pearl, luminous and metallic-looking effects
The guide names pearl, luminous and metallic effects as special treatment categories without detailed product specifications. Describe the effect you want for an individual review. Their inclusion in the guide does not make them a selectable default finish or promise actual metal, a tested glow duration or a uniform result on every shape.
Use finish-specific care instructions
Start with gentle dry dusting and careful handling. Some supplier coating notes mention particular cleaners or oils, but they are not general instructions for every resin or coating. Confirm the supplied finish before using alcohol, detergent, silicone oil or another treatment.