3D printers are rapidly emerging as one of the most exciting new technologies. 3D printing enthusiasts have already begun to create some amazing 3D printed miniatures, 3D models and 3-dimensional objects for their collections. 3-dimensional printing is an additive manufacturing process that builds up a physical object from a digital file. The 3D printer uses plastic filament which is melted and then deposited on the substrate in layers to create the desired shape.
What is a 3D printer for miniatures and what can it do?
3D printers for miniatures are 3-dimensional printing machines that can reproduce a 3D object from a digital file. 3D printers were originally created to design and manufacture components in the automotive, aerospace and other manufacturing industries but have since been adopted by hobbyists who enjoy 3-dimensional printing as well. Hobbyists use 3d printer filament to print 3D models and 3-dimensional objects for a variety of purposes, including 3d printing miniatures.
How to choose the right 3D printer for your needs?
Before 3D printing miniatures or anything else, it is essential that you choose the right 3-dimensional printer. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a 3d printer for your needs:
Price. There are 3D printers on the market ranging in price from $500 all the way up to over $1000. Make sure you get a 3D printer that is affordable for your budget.
Color. 3D printers are available in a variety of colors, including white and black. You can also get 3D printers which have been painted or even 3D printed as unique designs by the manufacturer such as: my Mini Factory’s “Swirl” series of 3-dimensional printers. If you are 3D printing miniatures or just want to 3d print models, the color of your 3-dimensional printer is something you might want to consider.
Warranty. All 3D printers break down eventually so make sure yours comes with a warranty. Epic Growing offers 3 months warranty on all products sold.
Printing Size. The 3D printer you choose should have the 3d printing size necessary for your project. 3-dimensional printers range in print bed sizes from approximately 3 inches x 3 inches to about 11 inches by 16.
Build Volume. The build volume of a 3D printer determines how much space is available for building objects on the 3-dimensional printer’s platform.
Popular models of 3D printers for miniatures
3D printers for miniatures are 3-dimensional printing machines that can reproduce a 3D object from a digital file. The 3d printer uses plastic filament which is melted and then deposited on the substrate in layers to create the desired shape. Here are some of the most popular models of 3D printers for miniatures:
MakerBot Replicator. MakerBot 3D printers are the most popular 3d printer models on the market, and for good reason. MakerBots have a large build volume which is essential for 3-dimensional printing miniatures as well as an easy to use interface and software.
Ultimaker. Ultimakers offer high resolution 3D prints at speeds of up to 300 mm per second. 3D printer for miniatures made by Ultimaker are available in both single extruder and dual extruder models, which can provide an even greater 3d printing speed while 3-dimensional printing miniatures.
RepRap Prusa I. The Reprap prusa I is a 3D printer that has been created using 3D design files from the open 3-dimensional printer community. And is a perfect 3d printing machine for 3D printed miniatures. The Reprap Prusa I is an extremely popular 3d printer. Because it has so many useful features including a heated bed:
- LCD screen with control buttons;
- easy cartridge system for swapping filament colors and more.
Common mistakes people make when buying a 3D printer
3D printers can be an investment and many 3d printing enthusiasts buy 3-dimensional printers that are not the right fit for their needs. Here are some common mistakes people make when buying a 3D printer:
Not considering all 3d printable materials. Not every 3d printer is compatible with as many types of filament as others. So consider 3d printing filaments and 3D printer brands when choosing a 3d printer to make sure it will work with your preferred materials.
Not weighing project requirements. If you need 3-dimensional prints that fit within certain size constraints, such as an object no larger than the 3D printer’s build volume. Then keep this in mind when purchasing a 3D printer. 3d printers which are suitable for 3-dimensional printing miniatures usually have a large build volume of at least 150mm x150 mm x200mm. But some 3D printers can go as high as 11 inches by 16 inches with their print bed size.
Not considering speed. 3D printers vary in 3d printing speed, so it is important to consider 3D printer speeds when choosing a 3-dimensional printer. 3D printers with higher print speeds are usually better for 3-dimensional printing miniatures because they can produce objects faster but conversely may not be as high quality or detailed as slower models of 3D printers.
