3D Printing Painting and Finishing 3D Rockets

[lowga]

I have purchased and built many a 3D rocket from Boyce Aerospace, STL printed files, etc. I'm a fan, but still,I struggle to get the finish that I'd love to have. Sometimes it works out, but often it falls short of the mark.
Best results seem to be a mixture of sandable primer, followed by dry and wet sanding. Usually start with 125-150 grit and work my way towards a finish sand at 600 grit--followed by paint.

But I could be doing it all wrong. I'd love to hear how others go about finishing their 3D rockets.

 

[Hobie1dog]

I never sand primer beyond 320 grit as the paint needs to have a surface to "grip" to.

 

[lowga]

Hmmm....had never thought about it from that point of view. That being said, I've never had problem with rattle can paint adhering to any of the 3D models I've built. Great looking rockets in the photo. What is the material? PLA?