3D Printing

[StarHope]

49 minutes ago, Desert Dan said:

 

Cool.  I have a lot more to show than what is in previous messages.  Going on vacation but will post some cool pics when I get back.   I now have 3 printers, almost all the same brand.  Not new stuff, but cheap and I learned to tune and repair them to print quite decently.   It's nice to have multiple, one benefit is that when one breaks down, at least you have backups.  I did not create the actual model for these shown below, but printing them successfully is enough of an accomplishment!

 Those are awesome! I love how so many things can be made with 3d printing.

[Witness1970]

My son bought a 3D printer recently.  When I visited him a few weeks ago, he gave therse to me and my wife.  A JW Library refrigerator and a Watchtower pencil holder.  I have more but I do not know where my wife put them.  I will upload the others later. 

My son received some new filament that is different colored.  

Edited November 19, 2024 by Witness1970

[Witness1970]

I found the other items.  A refrigerator magnet with Jehovah's name, a JW.ORG key ring, and a no blood key ring.

[New World Explorer]

Which 3D printer is good enough to print components for board games? 

for example hexagon tiles, small houses etc etc ... 

I need basic advice as I have zero experience in this area. 

[Desert Dan]

13 hours ago, New World Explorer said:

Which 3D printer is good enough to print components for board games? 

for example hexagon tiles, small houses etc etc ... 

I need basic advice as I have zero experience in this area. 

 

I think it is safe to say that basically every 3D printer can print small miniatures, including board pieces.   In fact, because they are so small, you could make the individual pieces at insignificant cost.    I have 3 printers, all from Creality and they are older but very capable once you figure them out.   The newer machines, such as those made by Creality and of course Bambu Labs, are very capable and easier to use for sure, especially someone trying out the hobby.   One of the tough parts is going on Amazon and figuring out which filament color or type you want.  Too many choices.   Most are printed in PLA filament (polylactic acid) but prone to breaking if stepped on or dropped.   Generally PLA filament works though. There are PETG filaments which can also be used if necessary for more resistance to breaking.   Plus the "infill" you set in your "slicing software such as Cura" can help a bit with how solid it is inside.   Generally 3D printing uses 20% infill on average, so the thing you printed is somewhat hollow on the inside.

 

3D printing is an interesting hobby.   You feel a sense of accomplishment when you are able to successfully make something.   And although I am not very skilled, 3D modeling software, available mostly for free, would allow you to create something on the computer and then you can print it out.

 

I don't recommend printing being done inside the home, unless it's in the garage.   Or if it is done inside, make sure the ventilation is good. 

 

 

Edited December 13, 2024 by Desert Dan