Development of 3D-printing in the tabletop wargaming community

History of 3D-printing in the wargaming community

Early adopters of 3D printing, often enthusiasts, began experimenting with using the technology to create custom miniatures and terrain for wargaming. These early efforts were primarily done using expensive, industrial-grade 3D printers that were not widely available to the general public.

As 3D printing technology became more affordable and accessible, more hobbyists in the wargaming community began to experiment with the technology. They started creating their own miniatures and terrain using consumer-grade 3D printers. These early efforts were often limited by the capabilities of the technology at the time, with miniatures and terrain that were relatively simple in design and lacking in fine details.

However, as the technology progressed and became more advanced, hobbyists were able to create more detailed and complex miniatures and terrain. This led to an increase in the popularity of 3D printing in the wargaming community, with more and more people turning to the technology to create custom miniatures and terrain.

As the technology progressed, online communities and forums dedicated to 3D printing for wargaming began to emerge, providing a platform for hobbyists to share tips, tricks, and designs. Additionally, companies that specialized in creating and selling 3D-printable miniatures and terrain also began to appear, which made it more accessible for people to get their hands on pre-designed miniatures and terrain for their games.

A switch from FDM to resin-printers

FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers and resin printers are two different types of 3D printing technology that have been used in the tabletop wargaming community.

FDM printers, also known as Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) printers, are the most common type of 3D printer and are widely used by hobbyists. They use a process called Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) to create parts by heating and extruding a thermoplastic filament, which is then deposited in layers to create the final part. FDM printers are relatively affordable, easy to use, and can print in a wide range of materials.

Resin printers, on the other hand, use a process called Stereolithography (SLA) to create parts. They use a laser to cure a liquid resin into solid form, layer by layer. Resin printers are known for producing high-quality prints with fine details, but are typically more expensive than FDM printers.

In the early days of 3D printing in the tabletop wargaming community, FDM printers were the most commonly used type of printer due to their affordability and accessibility. They allowed hobbyists to experiment with the technology and create their own miniatures and terrain, but the resolution and quality of the prints were limited.

As the technology progressed, resin printers began to gain popularity in the community. Resin printers offer higher resolution and finer details, making them more suitable for creating high-quality miniatures and terrain. Additionally, the variety of resins available for printing has also expanded, allowing for more options in terms of colors and textures.

Over time, as the technology progressed, hobbyist started to use resin printers more and more, due to the higher resolution and quality of the prints. While FDM printers are still widely used, resin printers have become a popular choice for hobbyists looking for high-quality miniatures and terrain.

Recent development of 3D-printing in the tabletop community

The 3D printing scene for hobbyists in the tabletop wargaming scene has developed significantly in recent years. In the past, 3D printing technology was primarily used by professionals and large companies, but it has since become more accessible to hobbyists and individuals.

One of the major developments in the 3D printing scene has been the decrease in cost of 3D printers. As the technology has become more advanced, prices have dropped, making 3D printers more affordable for hobbyists. This has allowed more people to access the technology and start creating their own miniatures and terrain.

Additionally, the quality of 3D printed miniatures and terrain has also improved. With advancements in 3D printing technology, hobbyists can now print miniatures and terrain with finer details and smoother surfaces. This has led to an increase in the overall quality of 3D printed miniatures and terrain, making them more comparable to traditional miniatures.

The development of various slicing software also has made 3D printing more accessible to hobbyists. These software allows for the conversion of 3D models into a format that can be printed by the 3D printer. This allows hobbyists to easily convert their own designs or downloaded models into printable files.

The variety of materials that can be used for 3D printing also has been expanded. This means that hobbyists have more options when it comes to printing miniatures and terrain, such as different colors, textures, and properties like flexibility or strength.

Overall, the 3D printing scene for hobbyists in the tabletop wargaming scene has grown rapidly in recent years, with more people now able to access the technology, improved quality of prints, and a larger variety of materials to choose from.