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3D Printing and Wargaming (hexbear.net)

submitted 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago) by [email protected] to c/[email protected]

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For the purpose of miniature wargaming, I’m considering getting into 3D printing because there are tons of amazing sculpts I’d love to get my hands on.

A couple of questions, though

I’ll admit I know next to nothing about 3D printing, but I could spend up to 300 eurodollars (or a bit more) on a 3D printer. Are there any key things to consider when picking up a printer? I don’t need the cheapest model, as price isn’t the main reason I’m getting into 3D printing. I care quite a bit about the quality of the finished models.

I live in an apartment, so does this even work logistically? I’m aware there are some health hazards with resin/3D printing—how serious should my concerns be about that? (That’s why I’m asking here and not in a 3D printing subreddit, where folks might be biased.)

Are there any recommended communities or YouTube channels for 3D printing? As I mentioned, I’ll be using this primarily for gaming miniatures and possibly wargaming terrain, not for other 3D-printable items.

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago) (2 children)

For 3d printing for miniatures and such, you definitely want to get a resin 3D printer. FDM (filament deposition manufacture) just doesn't have the level of detail and the lack of visible layers that you need for miniatures and such.

I'm pretty sure there must be really good stuff for $300 right now, I remember that some years ago people were amazed at the performance of the Elegoo Mars around that price point, one of the first truly affordable and good resin printers.

~~AFAIK, the resin is a hazard, but mostly to touch and ingestion, not to breathing, so if you use gloves, goggles, and don't lick your gloves, I think you're fine~~. Edit: ignore strikethrough and listen to the answer below by beloved comrade @JoeByeThen

Resin printers need the wash after the print to remove the leftover liquid resin, and possibly the extra UV cure. It does take up some extra space because you need the washing thing for the prints after they're out of the printer, and possibly also a UV curing chamber, but it shouldn't take more than half a normal desk altogether, definitely doable.

If you're concerned about the quality of the finish of resin 3D prints, I'm sure you can find a local club or business which will gladly accept money in exchange for prints. I'd give it a try and get some finished prints before buying a printer!

[–] [email protected] 7 points 4 days ago (1 children)

AFAIK, the resin is a hazard, but mostly to touch and ingestion, not to breathing, so if you use gloves, goggles, and don't lick your gloves, I think you're fine.

Do not breathe in resin fumes, please. Whether handling or during curing. Whole lot of people out there saying it's fine now have asthma and "allergies" to resin.

[–] [email protected] 3 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago) (1 children)

I assume when you mention resin fumes, you’re referring to printing with resin?

If I’m just buying a resin model, the main concern would be resin dust, right? Using disposable gloves and a chemical mask should be enough for any necessary cleanup, cutting, or other handling, correct?

Basically, handling resin models should be less 'dangerous' than printing with resin, correct?

I do take health serious. I bought one of these just for the purpose of priming models

[–] [email protected] 3 points 4 days ago

Yeah, resin once it's been washed and cured should be fine. I have a similar setup. stalin-approval

[–] [email protected] 3 points 4 days ago

If you're concerned about the quality of the finish of resin 3D prints, I'm sure you can find a local club or business which will gladly accept money in exchange for prints. I'd give it a try and get some finished prints before buying a printer!

My county's library has a branch with a 3d printer available for use. It may be worth checking your local library, too!