Is 3D Printing Gaming Miniatures and Terrain Feasible in 2023?
In 2023, the advent of advanced 3D printing technology has opened up new possibilities for miniature painters and model makers. The question of whether it's feasible and economical to 3D print gaming miniatures and terrain has become a topic of interest in the gaming community.
Technological Advancements and Economies of Scale
The ability to 3D print gaming miniatures and terrain is not a new concept, but it has gained traction in recent years. With the proliferation of 3D printers and the availability of high-quality downloadable files, it has become a practical and accessible option for hobbyists and professionals alike.
While 3D printing has been around for some time, it was once a specialized and expensive technology. However, advancements in technology have made entry-level 3D printers more affordable. Prices for these printers have dropped significantly, making them more accessible to a wider range of users.
Cost Analysis
The cost of 3D printing miniatures and terrain can be broken down into several factors, including printer purchase, materials, and design costs.
Printer Purchase
The cost of a 3D printer can vary widely depending on the type and quality of the printer. SLA (stereolithography) printers, known for their smooth finishes and fine detail, tend to be more expensive but offer superior results. FDM (fused deposition modeling) printers, on the other hand, are cheaper and easier to use, though they may produce slightly rougher textures.
For SLA printers, the cost can range from $300 to over $2,000. Entry-level models, such as those from companies like Anycubic or Formlabs, can be had for as low as $300. On the other hand, FDM printers often start at around $100 and can go upwards of $1,000.
Materials
The cost of materials is another crucial factor to consider. Resin is the primary material used in SLA 3D printing. The cost of resin can vary from approximately $40 per liter to over $150 per liter. This can significantly impact the overall cost of 3D printing, especially if large quantities are needed.
Printer Setup and Maintenance
Once you have your printer, you will need a UV source to cure the resin, which can range from simple UV light bulbs to purpose-built curing stations. Costs for these vary from around $60 to over $300 based on the size and quality.
Design Costs
The cost of the design itself can vary widely. While some designs are freely available online, others require payment. For example, Hero Forge sells STL files for around $8 to $10 each. This can be a significant investment if you are planning to print a large number of miniatures. Alternatively, you can find STL files for free on various websites, but quality can vary, and the availability of specific designs may be limited.
Economic Feasibility and Break-Even Analysis
Given the costs involved, it’s important to consider the economic feasibility of 3D printing miniatures and terrain. The cost to recoup your initial investment can depend on several factors, including the number of miniatures you plan to print and the size of the terrain pieces.
Assuming an average cost of $5 per mini, to recoup the cost of a solid SLA setup, you would need to print approximately 80 minis. Since a liter of resin can handle 120 to 140 28mm minis, you would still have some resin left over. However, you also need to consider the cost of resin and the learning curve associated with using the printer.
Assuming a 20% learning curve where you may produce some unsuitable miniatures, you would need to print around 100 minis before breaking even. Therefore, the feasibility can be assessed based on the number of miniatures you plan to print.
Conclusion
The decision to 3D print gaming miniatures and terrain comes down to personal preference and the scale of your project. While 3D printing offers a cost-effective and feasible alternative, it requires a careful cost-benefit analysis. With the right setup and a sound understanding of the costs involved, 3D printing can be a viable option for many hobbyists and model makers.
For those interested in getting started, it’s important to weigh the costs and benefits carefully, considering factors such as the number of miniatures you plan to produce, the size of the terrain, and the quality of the designs available. With the right approach, 3D printing can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to create gaming miniatures and terrain.