What would it take to make these usable (3D-printed items)

[Bugatti Fan]

Does it matter one iota if 3D printer layer lines are called striations or not ?   As far as I am concerned if someone understands that the term means layer lines, contour lines, call them what you will it makes no odds to me.

[Cool Hand]

On 10/8/2025 at 6:24 AM, Monty said:

First, my intention is not to slam the vendor.  I've never used anything that was 3D-printed, and these C3 Corvette wheels looked decent, but the "graininess" of the tire sidewalls gives me pause. 

What would make them presentable as realistic tires?  I couldn't imagine trying to sand that out, especially around the letters.  Light coats of primer? 

I guess it depends, what is important and matters to you Monty.

Close up macro pictures will always magnify the layer lines.

The black resin used for the tyres looks to be a satin/semi gloss finish which also makes the layer lines stand out. 

Me personally I dont worry about tyres, the wheel rim is whats more important.

 I used a set of wheels and tyres from a well established vendor that had very visible layers. But  2 good coats of black surfacer made the layer lines less visible. 

Yes the tyre on the other side had a split, didnt care no one will ever see that.🤣 

And once the tyres are under the model viewed from the table top and after it goes in the display case onto the shelf. The layer lines become totally irrelevant 😁

As the saying goes "each to their own" I build shelf models for fun that meet my own standards of approval.

 

Edited 12 hours ago by Cool Hand