D&D 5E Access to a 3D printer? Every monster for free

[SuperTD]

What is the cost of materials? Time Cost? Paint time? I recently had a problem with my debit card. After 49 minutes on the phone over two days it was worth$5 just to order one online than spend X minutes on the phone again to get a new one issued for free.

He mentioned in a post a few years ago that he went through three spools of PLA which was about $75 (for just the Monster Manual). So, after the initial investment for the printer (which are apparently always getting cheaper) it's a very cost efficient way to get minis if you're happy to paint them yourself. Obviously time to paint will depend on your skill and the quality you're happy with.

 

[tommybahama]

There is at least one "maker lab" in my town where you can get a membership and use their 3d printers. I've also heard some public libraries have 3d printers. It may be worth looking into.

 

[cbwjm]

I'd be tempted to get the elegoo mars if it was available in NZ, the quality of the minis looks incredible. I talked a bit with someone who made an Orcus miniature on Reddit who has an elegoo mars and he said it came out at around 6$ US for the resin.

Link for those who want to see the painted end result:

 

[Demetrios1453]

I've been keeping up with his posts on Reddit for a while now, and his work never ceases to amaze me. One of these days I'm going to invest in a 3d printer for these!

 

[pogre]

I have printed a few of his models and even with PLA many are great. Just understand that if you are buying a 3d printer you are embarking on another hobby = 3D printing. I mostly love mine, but there are times I am tempted to throw it into the lake. Having said that, I'm still tempted to pick up a resin printer.

This is a really solid review of 3D printing IMO:
Honest Review - 2 years with 3D printing by Squidmar

 

[Stormonu]

My brother has a 3D PLA printer, and I have to say that you need a resin printer for 28mm models If you want quality on par or better to commercial minis like the ones from Wizkids.